Costa Calida 31 August - 6 September 2023 Issue 1991

Issue No. 23 (1991) 31 Aug - 6 Sept 2023

HISTORIC SUMMER

Catherine McGeer

THE Region of Murcia has achieved a significant milestone in its tourism sector, as July 2023 marked a historic period with a remarkable increase in tourist activity.

According to the Hotel Occupancy Survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), there was a notable 5.7 per cent increase in overnight stays within the Murcian community. This figure outshines the national year­on­year growth rate of 2.5 per cent recorded for Spain as a whole. The attraction of the Costa Calida’s pristine beaches and the array of leisure activities, including diving experiences along the coast, has been complemented by a flourishing gastronomic scene and competitive hotel prices. These combined factors attracted a total of 159,167 visitors to the Region of Murcia during July. Notably, this surge in tourist numbers positions the Murcian community as the fourth autonomous region in Spain to witness the most substantial increase in tourists.

Marcos Ortuño, the Minister of Presidency and Tourism said that this success can be attributed, in part, to an impactful campaign led by the department under

Ortuño’s guidance. The campaign enlisted ATP’s top­ranked player, Carlos Alcaraz, as the face of Costa Calida, marked by the resonating slogan: ‘Region of Murcia, come and you will understand’.

This achievement, when compared to the pre­pandemic figures of July 2019, translates to a substantial growth of 17.48 per cent. This increase is the highest recorded across all of Spain. Moreover, Murcia’s coastal areas ranked fourth

among Spain’s coastal destinations in terms of year­on­year growth in traveller numbers, following Costa Guipuzkoa, Palma­Calvia, and Costa Verde.

Minister Marcos Ortuño conveyed his satisfaction on social media, highlighting the increasing appeal of Murcia as a tourist destination. The historical data generated in July reinforces the Region of Murcia’s position on the global tourism map.

Not-so-shark tale

BATHERS enjoying a sunny day at La Manga’s kilometre 16 beach witnessed an unexpected visitor recently when a sizeable marine creature was spotted swimming near the shoreline.

The presence of the animal caused a stir among beachgoers, prompting some to swiftly retreat to the safety of the sand.

Approximately 20 onlookers observed the animal, which was seen swimming a mere 20 metres from the shore. Many of these observers confidently identified it as a shark, due to its estimated 1.5­metre length. This wasn’t the only sighting. Hours later, the same animal was spotted once again, this time swim­

FREE • GRATIS

Boat crash

FIVE people sustained injuries during a boat collision with Isla Redonda in Mar Menor recently. Emergency sources reveal that three of the victims were transported to Cartagena’s Santa Lucía Hospital.

Among them, one suffered an open leg fracture while the other two experienced severe traumas. The incident happened around 11pm when a 12 ­ metre ­

long yacht was navigating in the Mar Menor. The vessel, for reasons unknown, crashed into Isla Redonda, a small islet near Isla del Barón. The injured comprised four women aged between 54 and 71, as well as a 15­year­old boy. Red Cross volunteers promptly offered aid, with the three casualties subsequently admitted to Santa Lucía Hospital for treatment.

ming along the coastline at kilometre 17.

María Pozo ­ Montoro, a shark specialist and researcher at UMU, provided an alternative perspective to the situation. She assured concerned local residents that the creature in question was not a shark

but rather a tuna. According to her, the animal likely escaped from the San Pedro fish farm.

This summer so far a shark was spotted on Aguamarina beach in Campoamor which led to the temporary evacuation of the beach due to safety

concerns. The stranded shark was later found on another beach, having unfortunately perished. A fivemetre sperm whale washed ashore on Torre Derribada beach in San Pedro recently, leaving many to wonder why they are popping up with more frequency.

Image: X/ @turismormurcia

Shutterstock/ lunamarina

Murcia’s tourism flourishes with unprecedented surge.

FISHY CASE CLOSED: Tuna takes the spotlight.

Screen shot: La 7

The Carlos Alcaraz effect

Catherine McGeer

THE residents of El Palmar are anticipating the completion of the new sports facilities in the Plaza de la Democracia, a project undertaken by the Murcia City Council. This expansive facility spanning 2,000 square metres is set to benefit over 25,000 community members and is due for completion this September.

The mayor of Murcia, José Ballesta, alongside key officials, has been overseeing the execution of this project. This project, which is being carried out in the streets where the world tennis number 1, Carlos Alcaraz, grew up, includes the creation of a tennis court.

This is one of the four areas into which the facilities will be divided. Another, the largest, will consist of a multi ­ sports area containing two basketball courts, a futsal or handball court, and a volleyball court.

To ensure safety and prevent ball exit, the mul­

Murcia Fair 2023

ti­sports courts and tennis court will be enclosed by a four­metre high electrowelded mesh. There will also be a bodyweight fitness area and bio­healthy game areas which will also feature a 1.5 ­ metre high mesh.

DURING June and July, Cartagena’s tourist offices and info points buzzed with activity as over 13,000 individuals passed through. Impressively, almost 60 per cent were international tourists, totalling 7,774, while 38 per cent (4,922) were domestic travellers from beyond the Murcia region.

The UK (4,190), Germany (1,091), and France (980) dominated the inter­

THE Murcia Fair 2023, spanning from August 31 to September 12, promises to be the best yet. With over 300 activities, this year’s fair is marked as the most extensive in history. Celebrating the 758th anniversary of Alfonso X El Sabio’s legacy, the event pays homage to the historical figure and revolves around the scenic Segura River.

Dubbed ‘The Fair that Returns’, the event was organised by the Murcia City Council. It hopes to blend time­honoured festivities with cutting ­ edge spectacles! The festivities commence on August 31 with the grand arrival of Virgen de la

Fuensanta, accompanied by the resounding voices of the Discantus choir from Parador del Rey.

Mayor José Ballesta unveiled the dynamic programme. Over 70 groups, associations, organisations, and companies have collaborated to organise more than 300 events across 50 distinct venues throughout Murcia.

The fair culminates on September 12 with a spectacular Pilgrimage, wrapping up two weeks of cultural immersion and joyful celebration. For more information see the Murcia Town Hall Facebook page (Ayuntamiento de Murcia).

Visitor insights: Cartagena

national scene, contributing over 80 per cent of foreign tourists. Notably, Belgium and the Netherlands followed suit.

Among national tourists, Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Alicante, and Biscay made up 46 per cent of non ­ local explorers.

It seems that Cartagena’s culture scene attracted 58.75 per cent and cruise enthusiasts comprised 28.18 per cent.

Desired information included city maps, cultural insights, transportation, routes, and excursions.

Belén Romero, the Tourism councillor, under­

lined the appeal of Cartagena’s history showcased in landmarks such as the Roman Theatre, Forum Quarter, and Naval Museum for international visitors.

This, coupled with beaches and culinary delights, makes Cartagena an irresistible destination.

Image: centromedios.murcia.es

Sports project: El Palmar’s Plaza de la Democracia.

Rauw fans

RAUW ALEJANDRO fans, mark your calendars for September 15! The Puerto Rican sensation is set to return to Murcia with his electrifying Saturno World Tour 2023. The concert will take place in the ‘Espacio Nueva Condomina’, in the Enrique Roca Stadium’s annex.

BSIDE Festival

THE 18th BSIDE Festival in Murcia is set for September 15­16 at the REMO venue, the festival features prominent acts like Lori Meyers, Hinds, Arde Bogotá, Carlos Vudú, Sedo DJ, and more. For more information see b­sidefestival.com.

Summer cycle

ON August 27, the 16th Trofeo Escuelas took place in Los Alcázares, drawing over 100 cyclists from the Region of Murcia and beyond. A highlight of the summer, the event saw the presence of famous Murcian cyclist Alejandro Valverde.

Ring rescue

FIREFIGHTERS from Murcia’s Infante district rushed to Morales Meseguer Hospital on August 26. Three tightly lodged rings had led to severe swelling and hindered blood circulation on someone’s hand. Firefighters and medical staff skilfully managed to extract the rings.

Scooter rules

MURCIA City plans to clamp down on the use of electric scooters. The council plans to establish regulations for electric scooter usage which are expected to be in place by year­end.

Rapid aid

EMERGENCY services swiftly responded to rescue and treat a 38­year­old man injured in Valle Perdido, Murcia. A forestry brigade and medical ambulance provided on­site stabilisation before transferring him to Virgen de la Arrixaca General University Hospital.

Swift response

ON August 27, emergency services swiftly responded to a forest fire incident in La Manga del Mar Menor, San Javier. The incident was reported at 7.31pm via the emergency hotline, 112. The caller informed authorities about bushes ablaze near a bridge, specifically in the Puerto Mayor area.

Both the Consorcio de Extinción de Incendios y Salvamento de la Región de Murcia (CEIS) firefighters and the San Javier Local Police were dispatched immediately. Their rapid intervention

YOUR EWN HAS

played a crucial role in managing the situation and ensuring the safety of the area’s residents and environment.

After an hour, the firefighters successfully contained and extinguished the fire. By 8.20pm, they had effectively addressed the incident, and the scene was deemed secure. Such coordinated emergency responses highlight the importance of efficient communication systems in safeguarding communities from the threat of forest fires.

Hail summer Lorca’s eco evolution

LORCA’S cleaning company, Limusa, has taken a significant stride towards enhancing selective waste collection services. A recent development introduced 140 specialised containers for textiles and used oil across the region. Divided equally, 70 units for textiles and 70 for used oil have been strategically placed alongside the existing recycling containers.

Managed by East West Productos Textiles, the four­year contract includes container provision, installation, and operation.

Residents can conveniently deposit textile items including clothing, footwear, and accessories

into the designated fluorescent bins.

These items will be collected for recycling, either for material reuse or resale in second ­ hand markets. Meanwhile, used oil can be disposed of in tightly sealed plastic bottles in distinctive orange containers.

The recycled oil will primarily serve biodiesel production. Lorca’s residents now benefit from a comprehensive waste collection system, reinforcing Limusa’s commitment to a more sustainable and cleaner environment. Hopefully, other regions within Murcia will also adopt a similar approach.

MOLINA DE SEGURA witnessed a remarkable meteorological phenomenon on Saturday, August 26, this weather event is known as a thermal updraft, or microburst, and was accompanied by hail.

This event features a sudden release of precipitation from clouds to the ground due to factors like evaporative cooling and particle weight.

Technically termed ‘convective air currents’, thermal updrafts are generated by temperature variations between air masses, usually within cumulonimbus clouds with their distinct vertical structure, prone to heavy precipitation and thunderstorms.

The Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) explained that a microburst can be distinguished as either wet or dry, depending on whether the precipitation reaches the surface.

The latter variation, also known as a warm burst, transpires when the precipitation encounters a dry air mass before hitting the ground. Such instances have been noted in Murcia.

Tourism threat

MURCIA, renowned for its 300 days of sunshine a year, confronts a troubling future as the climate crisis unfolds. The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre report reveals that this region faces significant vulnerability in its tourism sector.

The slogan that once attracted visitors now hangs in the balance due to escalating temperatures. If temperatures increase by four degrees Celsius by 2100 as they predict, Murcia could witness a loss of over 350,000 annual overnight stays. Coastal destinations, heavily reliant on tourism,

87 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Fry-day Feast

RODA embraced the tradition of the ‘English breakfast’ anew as part of their annual festivity. The limelight shone on Roda’s English colony during the ‘International Day’ celebration, an integral part of the patron saint’s festivities in honour of Virgen de los Remedios. Approximately 500 servings of the classic English breakfast, including fried eggs, bacon, sausages, and beans, were served from 10am to 12pm in Roda’s pine forest. The event showcased the active participation of the international community, predominantly English and Irish, who also organised an evening international dinner with music. With over 1,000 inhabitants both locals and people from the region flocked to savour the €2 breakfast and the €2.50 dinner. Mayor José Miguel Luengo of San Javier visited the event.

could see up to a 6.8 per cent decline in tourist visits.

The changing climate prompts a shift in traveller preferences, favouring cooler climates in central and northern Europe. Sadly, Murcia joins the list of Spanish regions, including the Balearic Islands, Valencia, Andalucia, and Catalonia, poised to endure substantial tourism setbacks.

Urgent action to mitigate climate change becomes crucial not only for environmental preservation, but also to secure the economy of regions like Murcia.

Emergency responders tackled a fire near Puerto Mayor bridge in La Manga.

Image: 112rmurcia.es

The Marinera Tapa

Catherine McGeer

MURCIA’S rich gastronomic heritage stands out due to the blend of the fresh produce grown in the region and its location on the coast of the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea. Nothing represents Murcia quite like the quintessential tapa: the Marinera Murciana.

It is made up of three fundamental elements: ensaladilla (salad), an anchovy, and a crunchy breadstick. A simple but

ONCE associated primarily with students, shared rental accommodations are now gaining traction among a broader demographic, including financially independent individuals. This trend is fuelled by the need to counter rising property prices and a scarcity of available rentals. In the Re­

delicious combination. Ensaladilla a la murciana or ensaladilla rusa is placed on top of a crunchy rosquilla (artisan bread stick)

which is then topped off with the anchovy which takes centre stage on top of the ensaladilla. The breadstick cradles the en­

Cultural breeze

saladilla without crumbling or getting soggy and after a bit of practice you can pick it up and eat it with ease!

The marinera is more than just a tapa, it is a symbol of Murcia representing both the land and the sea, a tribute to the region’s agricultural and fishing traditions.

The marinera encapsulates the essence of Murcia’s history and identity. Enjoy this aperitif with a ‘caña’ while you watch the world go by.

SAN JAVIER will host an exciting cultural event titled ‘Al Aire,’ (in the air). Running from September 14 to 17, the event promises a whirlwind of artistic experiences across public spaces, inspired by the region’s iconic Mediterranean winds.

‘Al Aire’ is an event that merges theatre, music, fashion, and inspiring talks. The event kicks off with the Gregal Wind on September 14, offering avant ­ garde theatre performances by ‘El Teatro de lo Ausente’ at the Santiago de la Ribera Cultural Centre. On September 15, the Levante Wind brings electrifying performances by local music groups Amor Tempura and Maestro Espada at San Blas Park Pavilion.

Fashion enthusiasts are in for a treat on September 16, as the Mistral Wind sweeps in with a women’s fashion show by Murcian designer Leonor Pando. The event culminates on September 17, hosting a discussion on women and the sea at the Nautical Club in Santiago de la Ribera.

David Martínez encourages everyone to participate in this unique celebration of cultural diversity, all the events are free, making ‘Al Aire’ an accessible and enriching experience for all.

Going Nomad Shared housing

gion of Murcia, this trend is pronounced, with a 67 per cent surge in shared flat listings within a year ­ double the national rate of 34 per cent.

The national average rental

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

price hike is 3 per cent, and the Region of Murcia experienced a striking 12 per cent surge over the last year, attributed to the reduction of property for rent. The average cost per

Meaning it is better to tell the truth than to lie. Benjamin Franklin famously coined this phrase in the 1700s.

rented room in Murcia City stands at €280 per month, notably lower than the national average of €350. The increase in shared flat rentals can also be attributed to the uncertainty created by the Housing Act’s new regulations and price restrictions.

This shift has led some property owners to sell their homes instead of renting, thereby decreasing supply and driving prices higher.

LA MANGA del Mar Menor is all set to host an innovative event, ‘The Nomad Sails: The Innovation Battle’, from September 21 to 23. Spearheaded by the councillor for Finance and Local Development, Héctor Verdú, and event director Dimas Agudo, this initiative is part of the broader Strategy for Sustainable and Integrated Urban Development, known as La Manga 365.

The focus of this event is twofold. Firstly, it aims to address the issue of seasonality that affects La Manga’s economy. Secondly, it seeks to tap into the growing community of digital nomads. Potential participants can register at no madsails.es until September 15. The selected participants

will receive complimentary access to the event, along with accommodation and meals during the three­day period. The initiative will be organised into eight groups upon participants’ arrival. Each group will work diligently to devise the best proposal, vying for a prize of €5,000. Doblemar Hotel will host the event that is open to the public.

12 cruise ports in Spain.

MORE THAN A TAPA: Capturing Murcia’s culinary soul.

“Honesty is the best policy.”

Storm rescues

IN San Pedro del Pinatar, a young man’s kayaking excursion turned into a dangerous ordeal when a fierce windstorm struck the region. The 25­year­old kayaker was swept far out into the sea from La Llana beach, battling powerful currents and winds for over five hours as he struggled to return to shore.

Emergency response teams launched an extensive search operation to locate the stranded kayaker. Despite encountering challenges in communication and tracking his changing position, a Red Cross boat successfully found him around 7pm. The combined efforts of Sasemar Cartagena, the

Air quality warning

Catherine McGeer

THE residents throughout the Region of Murcia received a warning recently about an increase of PM10 particles in the air due to the presence of air masses of Saharan dust.

Red Cross, and the Salvamento Maritimo helicopter from Valencia played a pivotal role in the rescue mission. This incident wasn’t isolated, as the windstorm prompted multiple distress calls from kayakers along the coast. Several kayaks were safely rescued from different locations.

Beyond the coastline, Lorca also bore the brunt of the storm with intense gusts causing widespread damage, including fallen trees and disrupted utilities. Despite the havoc, no injuries were reported.

Particulate Matter 10 (PM10) refers to tiny airborne particles with diameters of 10 micrometres or smaller.

These particles originate from various sources such as vehicle exhaust, construction activities, industrial processes, and natural sources like dust and pollen. Due to their small size, PM10 particles can easily be inhaled, posing potential health risks.

Exposure to PM10 particles is linked to several health effects. When inhaled, they can

penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing or exacerbating respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and even heart problems.

Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre­existing conditions are especially vulnerable.

To minimise the effects of PM10 particles, consider these steps. Use air purifiers

IN a bid to combat the financial blow of lastminute cancellations, restaurants in the Region of Murcia are increasingly adopting reservation charges. The losses, which can reach up to 20 per cent, have prompted establishments to take action, with some now requesting customers’ card details upon booking to impose a fee in case of a no­show scenario.

Many restaurant owners report incidents where multiple tables fail to show up, resulting in losses sometimes of 20 customers out of 30

THE celebrations to honour Santa María la Real de las Huertas, the Patron Saint of Lorca, began on August 24. The festivities will commence with novenas, running until September 7.

Musical groups including the José Andrés choir, Raquel and Miriam Silva, and the rondalla choir of the Domingo Sastre Residence will participate.

The programme was unveiled by Mayor Fulgencio Gil Jódar and Pedro Millán Navarro, president of the Real Hermandad de la Virgen de las Huertas. Highlight events include a floral offering and serenade preceding the High Mass. The Municipal Band’s director, Antonio Manzanera, and former president of the Association of Convent Servers, Domingo Baenas López, will be honoured as Brothers of Honour.

The festivities will culminate in a Solemn Mass and procession, with various musical groups taking part. A

with HEPA filters to reduce indoor PM10 levels. Stay informed. Wearing masks rated N95 or higher can reduce inhalation of PM10 particles. Keep windows and doors closed during high pollution times to prevent outdoor particles from entering indoors.

It is also suggested to refrain from intense outdoor physical activities.

No show

potential diners. Following such setbacks, restaurant owners have implemented a charging system, with two variations: a deposit for the menu cost or a fixed amount per diner, linked to the provided card details. This approach hasn’t been without its challenges. Critics argue against disclosing card information, while others misunderstand restaurants don’t directly access this data.

Divine celebrations

unique poster designed by Francisco Javier Martínez captures the spirit of the cel­

ebrations, people are expected to travel from all over for this traditional celebration.

Price adjustments

IN Spain, the business sector has faced mounting production costs recently, including energy, raw materials, transport, and salaries. While companies assert they are sparing consumers the full burden, a Bank of Spain report counters this, revealing that most sectors have extensively shifted the increased costs to sales prices. Notably, energy and hospitality stand out for aggressive price adjustments.

Hospitality experienced a 5.9 per cent cost rise in 2022, met by a 9.3 per cent price increase, capitalising on tourism’s rebound. Energy firms saw costs climb 57 per cent, followed by an 89 per cent price increase. Conversely, the food sector, despite 10.8 per cent food inflation, exhibited a more modest 14.6 per cent price increase against 16.6 per cent cost growth. Agriculture, livestock, and the transport sector demonstrated balanced responses. The report highlights that increased production costs influence sales prices positively but reduce demand, impacting sales volume. Employment and wage effects are constrained short­term, yielding a temporary increase in unit labour costs due to falling productivity. These dynamics reflect the intricate challenge businesses face in adapting to cost fluctuations while keeping economic viability.

WARNING: Saharan dust brings PM10 concerns.

Image: Shutterstock/ Edgar G Biehle

Emergency teams race against time to rescue a kayaker.

Images: @CruzRojaMurcia

Urban revival

IN a significant step towards the revitalisation of urban spaces and infrastructure, the ‘Mazarrón Urbano’ redevelopment plan is making substantial progress. This comprehensive plan aims to enhance the overall landscape and functionality of the Mazarrón municipality through the modernisation and improvement of avenues, streets, squares, and roads. The plan has recently

reached a noteworthy milestone with the signing of contracts for project drafting between Mayor Ginés Campillo and the awarded companies.

The redevelopment plan encompasses several key areas within the municipality, including Camposol, Bahía, and San Isidro. The redevelopment of Avenida de los Covachos in Camposol forms an integral part of the Mazarrón Urbano plan.

The task of drafting the project has been awarded to Em4 Servicios De Ingeniería. San Isidro will witness a remarkable change also with the redevelopment of Calle Trafalgar and Calle Depósito. The timeline for project completion varies across the different areas. While the first batch has a five­month window for drafting, the remaining projects are expected to be ready within four months.

Streamline alerts

THE city council of Cartagena has taken a vital step toward enhancing public safety and emergency communication.

By introducing a unified social media profile, crucial information about emergencies and safety alerts will now be efficiently shared through this shared account.

This consolidated effort involves collaboration between the Local Police, Fire Department, and Civil Protection. Residents

can access these updates on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Emergenci asCartagena), Instagram, and X (Twitter). However, it’s important to note that in cases of emergencies, social media is not the appropriate channel for communication. Instead, designated hotlines such as 112 (Emergency Coordination Centre of the Region), 968 128 877 for Local Police, and 968 128 880 for the Fire Brigade should be utilised.

Beach safety drone

Catherine McGeer

THE Local Police of San Pedro del Pinatar have taken a technological leap in their efforts to ensure beach safety and enforce regulations. They have recently deployed a drone to intensify surveillance and monitoring activities on the local beaches, especially those along the Mediterranean coast.

The primary goal of this initiative is to ensure that beachgoers adhere to the basic rules related to public safety. The drone was

acquired earlier this year and following comprehensive training for the police officers, is now an integral part of the force’s surveil­

THE Cartagena City Council has secured close to €500,000 in Next Generation funds from the European Union. The announcement, made by Councillor Esperanza Nieto, outlines the strategic allocation of these funds for the purpose of modernising the administrative processes within the municipality.

The main aim of this effort is to upgrade and improve the city council’s IT system. The funds will be vital in making operations more efficient, strengthening data

lance toolkit.

Equipped with advanced capabilities, the drone support flights provide an enhanced perspective of the

Inclusive regatta

beaches, enabling authorities to identify individuals who flout regulations. These may include individuals accompanied by animals or those engaged in activities like unauthorised fishing.

The drone also contributes to broader security measures beyond the beaches, such as monitoring traffic and overseeing events that attract large crowds. This innovative approach highlights San Pedro del Pinatar’s commitment to maintaining safety and order in public spaces.

EU tech boost

security, and setting up disaster recovery plans for crucial virtual tasks used by city staff. An important aspect of this initiative involves introducing virtual work desk sessions for public employees. This innovation enables them to efficiently perform their tasks from remote or local locations, ultimately improving the way services are

provided to citizens. Esperanza Nieto, responsible for Economic Development, Finance, and Personnel, highlights the main objective: to improve citizen services and make it easy for public employees to securely access applications via virtual desktop sessions, no matter where they are or what device they use.

THE European Inclusive Sailing Championship is set to take place in Los Alcázares from September 23 to 30. This prestigious event, jointly organised by the European and Spanish sailing federations, is a celebration of the remarkable talents of disabled sailors from across the continent. The championship is centred around the Hansa 303 class sailors, with participants like Polish champion Piotr Cichocki, Portuguese sailor Joao Pinto, and British contender Rory McKinna.

With a month left until the competition kicks off, the roster already boasts more than 50 international sailors representing nations such as Portugal, Great Britain, France, Italy, Poland, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Croatia. The Club Náutico Mar Menor de Los Alcázares is the organising force behind this unique regatta, which will be headquartered at the CTD Región de Murcia de Los Narejos.

Aside from the sporting spectacle, the championship underlines the inclusive spirit of sailing, as sailors with many different disabilities will compete alongside sailors without disabilities. This event will also be a clean, plastic­free, and ecologically sensitive regatta.

CHAMPIONING INCLUSION: Sailors with diverse abilities showcase their competitive spirit.

Image: San Pedro Town Hall website

SKY GUARD: Ensuring beach safety.

Image: Shutterstock/marinart1

Jo Pugh CELEBRATIONS have been underway to mark the 111th birthday of Britain’s oldest man, John Tinniswood, who reached the milestone on Saturday, August 26.

Originally from Mersey­

Everything in moderation

side, John Tinniswood was born in 1912. At The Hollies care home in Southport, friends and

family gathered to commemorate the occasion.

John attributed his longevity to enjoying fish

274-Mile cycle ride

WHEN Mark Hughes’ father, Chris, passed away at 62 this year, the bond they shared over cycling inspired Mark to embark on a poignant 274­mile journey. Carrying his father’s ashes, he set out on an emotional ride.

Chris wasn’t just Mark’s father; he was his best friend, even standing as the best man at Mark’s wedding the previous year. Tragically, a few months post the joyous occasion, Chris began experiencing severe headaches. In March 2023, he was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour, wrote a local news source.

By July 15, at Ystrad Mynach Hospital, surrounded by loved ones, Chris departed, merely four months post ­ diagnosis. Mark expressed his desire to share this heart ­ wrenching tale, hoping it might prompt others to be vigilant about potential brain tumours, regardless of age or

health.

Just two days after the funeral, Mark began his month­long cycling expedition around Wales on Chris’s mountain bike. This wasn’t just a tribute to his father but a mission to fundraise for Brain Tumour Research. Mark, from Rogerstone, Gwent, said: “When I saw the challenge it seemed a fitting way to celebrate something he loved while raising awareness of brain tumours.”

In the UK, 16,000 individuals receive a brain tumour diagnosis annually, with a mere 12 per cent surviving beyond five years post­diagnosis.

Mark hopes that by participating in this endeavour he will motivate individuals to seek medical advice if they harbour any doubts. As Mark nears the end of his challenging journey, he’s already amassed over £4,000 through JustGiving.

and chips on Fridays and doing things in moderation.

‘Everything in moderation’ is a phrase most of us have heard at some point in our lives, probably advised as caution against going overboard with an activity, such as eating, shopping, drinking, working out, or spending time watching TV.

1. The Buffet Binge : Ever found yourself at an all ­ you ­ can ­ eat buffet, facing a plate tower that threatens to eclipse the sun? Moderation steps in like a wise old owl, gently advising you to opt for a selection of bites.

2. The Gym ­ aholic : You’re at the gym, deadlifting the equivalent of a small elephant while guzzling a protein shake the size of a bathtub. But moderation reminds you that progress doesn’t re ­

quire bench ­ pressing the entire gym.

3. The Netflix Marathon : We’ve all

been there ­ sinking into the couch with a bottomless bowl of popcorn and a vow to binge ­ watch every season of a show in one sitting. But moderation swoops in, proposing a daring compromise: try watching just two episodes and then stretch your legs. You’ll be amazed how many hidden talents your legs have, like walking for example.

4. The Social Media Scroll ­ fest : Scrolling through social media can quickly leave you questioning the meaning of life. Moderation taps you on the wrist to set an alarm that rings once you’ve done your duty to Facebook.

So go forth, embrace the art of moderation, and remember: too much of a good thing can sometimes be the most amusing thing of all.

John Tinniswood.

Overdoing the gym.

Buffet binging.

Credit: Prostooleh/Freepik

Credit: Katemangostar/Freepik

Credit: The Hollies Nursing Home

TOP TEN HOTTEST PLACES IN SPAIN 2023

SUMMER 2023 is shattering temperature records across the globe with Spain battling yet another heatwave that is rewriting the history books. Let’s have a look at the top 10 hottest places in Spain.

LA DEPRESIÓN DEL GUADALQUIVIR IN ANDALUCIA

This is a geographical depression in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula. It covers an area of approximately 35,000 km squared. It is bordered by the Sierra Morena mountain range and the Subbética mountain range. The area has an average altitude of 100 metres above sea level making it the lowest in the peninsula. This region is home to the city of Cordoba which holds the record for Spain’s highest temperature ever recorded, a blistering 47.3 degrees Celsius in Montoro.

INTERIOR VALLEYS OF TAJO, GUADIANA AND SEGURA

Situated in the heart of the peninsula, these valleys experience sweltering summer temperatures. Running through this area is the River Tajo, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Its waters have been diverted to the south of Spain to help with crops since the 1980s, however, due to repeated droughts and climate change, the river is now at the heart of a water dispute. This year the situation is at its climax as Spain faced an unprecedented rainfall deficit. The level of the river is so low it is possible to walk through it in some areas.

EBRO VALLEY IN ARAGON

The Ebro Valley is a large geographical region in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. It experiences a meteorological phenomenon known as the Foehn effect, which leads to a rise in temperature and dryness. The Foehn effect is a weather phenomenon where cool wet air on one side of a mountain range becomes warm dry air on the other side. This phenomenon contributes to making the Ebro Valley a hotspot for scorching summer temperatures.

EASTERN CANARY ISLANDS

The eastern islands of the Canary Archipelago, including Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, are known for their hot climates. The combination of trade winds and Saharan dust contributes to elevated temperatures, making these islands some of the hottest in the Atlantic.

ANDALUCIAN HINTERLAND

Beyond the Guadalquivir Depression, the wider hinterland of Andalucia, including areas like Jaen and Granada, experiences searing summer heat.

These regions often see temperatures climb into the high 30s and low 40s making them stand out in the country’s heat map. Due to Granada’s Moorish influences, you can take a break from the heat by visiting some of the region’s most iconic sites like the Alhambra Palace. These buildings really do offer a refuge from the stifling heat due to their clever design and the thick walls.

CENTRAL PLATEAU

The expansive central plateau, including provinces like Ciudad Real and Toledo, is infamous for its scorching summer temperatures. The flat terrain and lack of coastal influences contribute to the intense heat experienced in this region.

MADRID

The capital city and its surroundings are no strangers to heatwaves. With urban heat island effects amplifying the high temperatures, Madrid often swelters in summer.

This is why the ‘madrileños’ tend to have a second home on the coast of Spain where they can retreat during the summer months to take advantage of the cooling sea breeze.

MURCIA

Located in the southeast of Spain, Murcia is known for its arid climate and scorching summers, often exceeding 40°C during the hottest months. The coast of Murcia is known as the Costa Calida, the warm coast, due to its micro­climate there is not much respite to be had. This region experiences high levels of humidity which have caused real feel temperatures of 50 degrees Celsius at times during this hot summer.

VALENCIA

This coastal region experiences a combination of intense summer heat and humidity. The combination of these factors can lead to stifling conditions, making Valencia a contender for some of Spain’s hottest locations. On August 10, during the most recent heatwave parts of Valencia saw some of the highest temperatures in Spain with the area near Valencia Airport recording 46.2 degrees Celsius.

EXTREMADURA

With its continental climate, Extremadura is known for its hot and dry summers. The region’s interior location means it’s not influenced by coastal breezes, contributing to its reputation as one of Spain’s hottest areas.

La depresión del Guadalquivir in Andalucia.

The Alhambra Palace, Granada.

Image: Wikipedia/Mihael Grmek

Summer evening in the Parque Retiro, Madrid.

Image: Shutterstock/S.Borisov

Valencia has broken records for the highest temperatures in Spain 2023.

Image: Shutterstock/Alexey Fedorenko

Image: Wikipedia/Jebulon

Interior Valleys of Tajo, Guadiana, and Segura.

Image: Wikipedia/Heparina1985

Badland area in the Region de Murcia.

Image: Shutterstock/ photorealitydrone21

Special delivery

COMING from the birthplace of Amazon in Seattle, we are well acquainted with online delivery. And it’s a good thing too. Living in rural Spain means relying heavily on purchasing things on the Internet. It’s either that or driving a long way.

Generally, we are delighted with the delivery times in Spain. Sometimes, even amazed at how swiftly a purchase is delivered after pushing the Buy button before bed only the night before. But we have learned that here in Galicia when we receive the ‘Your order has been delivered’ email. Delivered is a relative term.

Our online orders will

arrive by one of several different delivery companies. Or even by random taxi. My husband, Jeff, has developed a shipping matrix, so he’ll know where to expect delivery. But the CTT express guy retired recently ­ he was the one who had my WhatsApp and would call me directly, even for packages addressed to Jeff. To make sure I was home or to tell me where he hid the box. The new guy won’t come to the house, and the delivered emails are phantoms. Jeff couldn’t get a straight answer until one terse reply, ‘Your package is at the gas station.’ Our only gas station doesn’t take Ama ­

zon packages. Jeff went there to fill up and enquire about our package anyway. The attendant looked confused, only to return from the back with our box ­ headscratcher.

Random taxis often knock on the door with a package. Correos Express will come to the house. Regular Correos, our mail lady, will also come to the house to deliver for Amazon. She holds the ladder for me if I’m out pruning my fruit trees as an added service. So, we can’t complain. Logistics is better here than in the US, even in rural Spain. And the ladder­holding is always free.

Kelli Field is an American expat writer/blogger living in rural Galicia, and a volunteer for Age in Spain. Some of her other writing about moving to and living in Spain can be found at www.vivaespanamovingtospain.com If you’d like to get in touch with Age In Spain, we can be reached at info@ageinspain.org (+34 932 209 741). www.ageinspain.org

DENMARK

Religious respect

THE Danish government plans to introduce a law making it illegal to desecrate holy books, responding to recent Quran desecrations that triggered outrage. Denmark seeks to prohibit the mistreatment of religious objects, extending the ban on burning flags. Offenders, aiming to incite or in public, face fines or a maximum two-year jail term.

F-16 support

IN a significant move, the Netherlands and Denmark have announced their commitment to providing F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lauds this support as a gamechanger for Ukrainian forces battling Russia's aggression. The F-16s mark a crucial reinforcement after Zelenskyy's persistent appeals, as Ukraine seeks to gain an upper hand in its counteroffensive.

Celtic Days

THE Celts make nodding acquaintance with Belgium as from 11am on September 2 and 3 there will be parades and performances by Pipes Bands from Belgium, Scotland and Brittany, harp concerts, Celtic concerts and shows by Asturian, Breton, Scottish and Irish dances at the Celtic Days event in Thy-leChateau.

Young hero

AN unidentified young man recently found himself in a situation at a Brussels station where he could see a young woman on the rail track.

Without a second thought he jumped off the platform, ran across one set of lines, grabbed hold of her and dragged her back to the platform and safety.

Tourism wave

ITALIAN visitors contribute significantly to Albania's thriving tourism industry, which made up 20 per cent of the nation's GDP last year. Among the numerous Italians who holidayed in Albania in July was Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. She even settled the bill for some fellow Italians who left a restaurant without paying.

Smartphone crossing

PAVIA in Italy has introduced the world's first pedestrian crossing system aimed at safeguarding those who walk with their eyes glued to their phone screens. When the traffic lights turn red, the first part of the crossing is illuminated in a bright red light. This visual signal is designed to catch the eye of those absorbed in their phones, compelling them to stop and think before stepping onto the road.

Lucky charm

Penguin General

IN a quirky display of tradition, the Norwegian military has bestowed the title of Major General upon a penguin named Sir Nils Olav III. Hailing from Edinburgh Zoo, this king penguin rose to the third-highest rank in Norway's armed forces.

The ceremony, a nod to a mid-20th-century practice, occurred during the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Sir Nils Olav III: From Zoo to Major General.

Wolf man

HIKERS in Germany's Harz Mountains stumbled upon a chilling sight - a mysterious naked ‘wolf man’ who authorities speculate has roamed the wild for half a decade. Gina Weiss and her friend Tobi encountered the unkempt figure carrying a spear. The wild encounter lasted 10 minutes, leaving quite an impression on the hikers.

Germany rebounds

GERMANY'S economy has pulled out of a technical recession as its GDP showed no growth in Q2 compared to a 0.1 per cent contraction in the prior quarter.

The halt in activity from April to June ends the consecutive negative quarters seen in 2022's last quarter and this year's first quarter, marking a positive shift.

GERMANY

Minibus crashes

PRESS EURO ITALY

NORWAY FINLAND

Child free

DUTCH travel company Corendon is the first in Holland to introduce child-free zones on its flights to the Caribbean island of Curaçao. For an additional €45, travellers can book a place at the front of the plane where a curtain will separate them from crying babies or noisy toddlers.

On your bike

THE phrase “on your bike” has been listened to by thieves in The Netherlands. The Dutch have expanded their love for riding electric bicycles in greater numbers and they are becoming a valuable target for crooks who know that there is a ready market for them in Eastern Europe.

A TRAGIC accident involving a minibus carrying seven children occurred on a secondary road in the village of Houeillès, near Landes in southwestern France. The vehicle left the road and ran into a concrete parapet, resulting in the death of one passenger, a 12-year-old boy. Four other pupils were also said to be in critical condition.

Scooter ban

ON September 1, the 15,000 self-service scooters available in Paris will disappear from the streets of the French capital. By the end of the month, Paris will become the first European capital to completely ban these two-wheelers. Anne Hidalgo, the socialist mayor of Paris, had personally campaigned for the vote, stressing the eviction of these scooters would reduce 'nuisance' on the streets.

Businesses stung

EARLIER this year, an international film crew, working on Europe's most expensive series titled 'Constellation,' descended on Lapland with a team of 200 to 300 members. Despite attempts to communicate with Turbine Studios' German department and Apple TV where the series is hosted, the issues remain unresolved. The film crew left behind unpaid invoices amounting to over a million euros.

Independence Day

IN Helsinki, Ukraine's Independence Day was commemorated on Thursday, August 24. In the evening, a sunflower procession wound its way through Helsinki's centre. Ukrainians view the vibrant sunflower as a symbol of peace and resilience. After the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, Ukrainians planted sunflowers. The flowers not only represented renewal and hope, but they helped extract toxins from the soil.

A WOMAN from Tullow, Carlow mistakenly believed she won €25,000 on a Lotto scratch card, only to learn from her daughter that she'd won €250,000. Having never bought such a card before, her unexpected win led locals to humorously 'rub' her for good luck. She plans to use her winnings for home repairs and a new car.

Comedy returns

AN Irish sitcom, Mrs Brown’s Boys, is set to return to BBC TV next month after spending a decade off air. The much-debated Irish comedy is gearing up for a comeback with a quartet of episodes in a mini-series format. Viewers can look forward to the first episode scheduled for September 8, this year.

Speed cameras

AS of September 1, there will be 37 new speed cameras located on Portugal’s road system. These will add to the 61 existing cameras. In a statement, the National Road Safety Authority (ANSR) informed that for the first time on Portuguese roads, a total of 12 'average-speed' cameras will be installed at selected locations.

Doctors strike

A NATIONWIDE strike has been called in Portugal by the National Federation of Doctors (FNAM), scheduled for November 14 and 15. The union is demanding fair wages and decent working conditions for all doctors in the National Health Service (SNS). An FNAM statement explained: “We reached the end of August, 28 days after the FNAM submitted its counterproposal to the Ministry of Health regarding salary scales, and we still have not received a response.”

IRELAND PORTUGAL SWEDEN

Solo album

AT 73, Agnetha Fältskog, one of the original members of the legendary Swedish group ABBA is planning to release a new solo album after signing a record deal with BMG. Along with Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, Agnetha set the music world on fire in the 1970s with a string of massive global hits after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with the song Waterloo.

Bear attack

TWO cases of hunters being attacked by bears have been reported in Jämtland County. According to Olov Hallquist, the head of game at the county administrative board: “The persons were bitten on the arms and the extent of the damage is otherwise unclear.” Such incidents are unusual he added: “It is something that can happen in connection with bear hunting, which is a potentially dangerous animal.”

BELGIUM

FRANCE

Time for a siesta

Catherine McGeer

THE siesta is a term derived from the Latin ‘hora sexta’ (sixth hour) and has its origins dating back to ancient Roman and Greek civilisations. The idea of taking a short nap during the hottest hours of the day was a response to the practical need to escape the scorching midday sun and conserve energy.

While Spain is perhaps the country most associated with the siesta it is a tradition that is common in many other countries. In Mediterranean countries, Southern Europe, the Middle East, mainland China, Japan, India, and Central and South America an afternoon nap is also common. Italy calls it the riposo and the coast of Croatia refers to it as the pizolot for example.

The siesta and the long lunch break in the middle of the day seem to have become synonymous with laziness. The opposite of this is in fact true, the Spanish siesta and long lunch breaks became popular after the Spanish Civil War when Spain’s economy was in ruins. Most people needed to work two jobs. Many left early in the morning for their first job, then they came home for lunch and had a rest at midday during the hottest hours of the day, but many people needed to use this time to travel to their second job.

When speaking to Spanish business

owners they commented that the ‘siesta’ time is now used for behindthe ­ scenes work. José Maria Fernández who owns a local shop said “I go home for lunch but then usually come back to restock the shelves before the store reopens in the evening.”

When speaking to locals, international residents, and tourists most said they don’t usually have time to nap, but when they do have time they love it! Julia Mansfield on holiday said “The best thing about being on holiday is having a lovely lunch out by the beach and then going back to the apartment for a siesta.’”Some longtime British residents who have retired on the coast say they always try to have a siesta, especially during the summer months.

When discussing the Spanish siesta one particularly contentious topic that takes centre stage is how long the nap should be. Answers ranged from a quick 10 minutes to a wonderful twohour nap during a summer day off. According to the experts, a 20­30 minute ‘power nap’ between 1pm and 3pm is better than coffee! These short naps can improve focus and memory, reduce fatigue, improve your mood, and productivity, relieve stress, and improve your performance.

There is also a 37 per cent reduction in coronary mortality for those who choose to regularly nap at midday.

EMBRACING THE PAUSE: Discovering the essence and benefits of the siesta tradition.

Image: Shuttersttock/ Dasha Petrenko

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Another try

MICROSOFT made another attempt to buy Call of Duty­maker Activision Blizzard after UK regulators blocked the original $69 billion (€63.5 billion) deal. Although Microsoft claimed the new offer was “substantially different,” the UK’S Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said agreeing to review the deal was not “a green light.”

Abu Dhabi deal

BRUSSELS authorised the €600 million purchase by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign fund ADIA of 17 hotels owned by Equity Inmuebles that are run by the Mallorcabased Melia company and include the ME and Plaza de España hotels in Madrid. The deal went through in June, but had to wait until now for the EU’s go­ahead.

Pain gain

ITV is investing approximately £5 million (€5.85 million) in advertising for joint pain relief brand Flarin in return for a minority stake in the company. The Flarin deal is ITV’s first consumer healthcare investment and will introduce brand awareness to millions of UK viewers via ITV platforms, the company said.

Winter warmer

TWO months of the Brussels deadline, Spain is the first EU country to completely fill its gas storage facilities, ready to cover possible supply problems this winter. Europe has achieved storage levels which would have been hard to imagine in March 2022, said Enagas chief executive Arturo Gonzalez.

Slowdown

FACTORY output in the UK slumped to its lowest level since 2020 when the country was emerging from the first Covid lockdown, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) announced. This was the latest indication that the Bank of England’s interest rate hikes were slowing the economy, the CBI said.

STAT OF WEEK €420 million

in turnover last year - a 6 per cent increase - for the Jealsa fishery group’s subsidiary Escuris, the company which supplies Mercadonas’s Hacendado own-label tinned tuna and mussels.

Naturgy fine Ortega looks West

Linda Hall

AMANCIO ORTEGA, the billionaire Inditex founder, has expanded his real estate empire with the €213 million ($232 million) acquisition of West Loop Tower in Chicago.

The tower located on 727 Madison Avenue has 492 luxury properties distributed over 45 storeys and is Chicago’s tallest building west of the Kennedy Expressway.

The operation was carried out on August 4 by Pontegadea, the company which oversees the real estate and private equity

investments made by Ortega, Spain’s richest man and one of the world’s wealthiest people.

According to reports in the Real Deal publication, the €213 million that Ortega paid was the highest price for a Chicago residential building since be­

TRADE talks between the UK and India are nearing their final “but trickier" stages, government sources told the BBC.

As Trade secretary Kemi Badenoch visiting India for a meeting of G20 Trade ministers on August 23 and 24, conjecture that a trade deal could be struck before PM Rishi Sunak’s September visit.

“Currently there is no expectation in government that a full deal will be agreed by then,” the BBC learnt.

They hoped a deal was only months away, the sources said, but emphasised there were still some ‘big nuts’ to crack.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, promised in April 2022 that a deal would be settled “by Diwali.” Johnson’s self­imposed October deadline came

No AI qualms

CONTRARY to popular fears, more jobs could be available in professions exposed to Artificial Intelligence (AI).

A Bank of Spain study concluded that the professions which used new technologies generated most employment.

The Bank’s report, New Technologies and Jobs in Europe, examined links between labour market developments and new technologies including AI in 16 European countries between 2011 and 2019.

“Results appear to be linked to the pace of technology diffusion and education, but also to the level of product market regulation (competition) and employment protection laws,” the report added.

fore the pandemic.

The US is attracting most of Ortega’s property investments, following Pontegadea’s €505 million (€487 million) purchase of a New York apartment block in October 2022 and more luxury apartments, the Kiara

Tower in Seattle, for €305 million ($324 million) at the end of last year.

Pontegadea is not limiting its US investments to residential properties, as Ortega bought an automated logistics centre in southern California’s Inland Empire Area from hypermarket chain Walmart €98.9 million ($109 million) in July.

This came 12 months after he first entered the logistics sector with the purchase of a FedEx platform in Menomonee Falls, near Milwaukee (Wisconsin) worth about €35.2 million ($35 million).

Hopes for India deal

grant more visas for Indian workers.

The UK also hopes that India will agree to allowing a greater number of UK business firms and service industries to establish themselves in the country.

“Up to 80 per cent of the UK economy is services­based,” William Bain, head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce told the BBC.

THE National High Court’s Public Prosecution department has opened an enquiry into Naturgy’s electricity prices.

The investigation follows on from a Facua consumers’ association complaint which maintained that prices charged between March 2019 and December 2020 in the area covered by the Sabon 2 power station in Galicia were illegally manipulated.

Naturgy profited €43 million from the high prices and last June, Spain’s National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) ordered the company to pay a €6 million fine and €35.5 million to compensate the consumers who were overcharged. Naturgy has confirmed that it will lodge an appeal with the High Court.

Unreasonable

OFGEM has fined the US bank, Morgan Stanley £5.41 million (€6.33 million) after its energy traders communicated via private WhatsApp accounts.

and went, but the UK is still very keen to reach agreement with India.

Over the past 12 months, the trade talks have come up against several obstacles, particularly Britain’s refusal to

Wilko shutdown

THOUSANDS of jobs will be lost as Wilko prepares to close most of its stores ‘in the near future’. No buyer came to the rescue of the family­owned household and garden products chain, which has approximately 400 stores and employs around 12,500 people. As weeks of talks with potentially interested parties fell through, Wilko’s only option was to call in administrators from PricewaterhouseCoopers after running out of cash.

The budget retailer borrowed £40 million (€46.8 million) last year, reorganised its leadership team and cut jobs, while selling off a distribution centre to raise cash.

Despite the chain’s economic problems, the Wilkinson family paid itself £3 million (€3.51 million) in dividends during the year ending in February 2022.

The administrators would be supporting staff “through this deeply unsettling time,” they said.

“This is one of the last areas where India would want to reach agreement at this point. “That's where it has leverage,” Bain explained.

“Having much more visa access to the UK will be part of the key things that get a deal over the line,” he said.

Another contract

STATE­OWNED QatarEnergy awarded a €598 million ($650 million) contract to Spanish engineering firm, Tecnicas Reunidas.

The contract, Tecnicas Reunidas’ fourth in two years from QatarEnergy, involves connecting the Ras Laffan industrial area with new liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanks and export facilities in the north of the country.

The Spanish company will also provide connections, ancillary systems, and other support elements for LNG facilities at the North Field South Project.

Located in the north ­ east of the Qatar peninsula, North Field is the world’s largest gas field not linked to an oil field and accounts for 10 per cent of the world’s known natural gas reserves.

They habitually discussed transactions when buying and selling energy between January 2018 and March 2020, the UK’s energy regulator said. Morgan Stanley did not take ‘reasonable steps’ to ensure that staff used communication methods which could be handed over should investigators ask for information.

This was the first­ever UK fine issued under legal requirements to record and retain electronic communications relating to trading wholesale energy products, the regulator explained.

Near at hand

THE UK’s high street banks must ensure that customers can access cash within three miles of their local communities. Following the closure of thousands of branches and increased online banking, banks failing to provide a minimum service would be fined, the government confirmed, as the Financial (FCA) would make sure that banks and building societies were respecting these standards.

“Ministers are looking to banks to help protect vulnerable groups and elderly customers by maintaining present levels of cash access across the UK,” the Treasury said.

CHICAGO ACQUISITION: Amancio Ortega buys luxury apartment block.

KEMI BADENOCH: Hopes to move India trade deal talks along.

Photo credit: Flickr/Pedro Szekely

Photo credit: members-api.parliament.uk

DOW JONES

Meta blow

CCC BARCELONA DIGITAL SERVICES, whose employees scour social media for illegal content and fake news, is laying off 334 of 2,400 employees, owing to reduced demand from Facebook owner, Meta. The dismissals follow 680 temporary redundancies in March, which resulted in 100 job losses, with another 150 employees leaving amid claims of “worsening conditions.”

Making amends

POST OFFICE chief executive

Nick Read is returning part of his 2021­22 £455,000 (€532,199) bonus that was linked to findings of the Horizon enquiry. Read has apologised for “procedural and governance mistakes” that arose from the faulty Horizon IT system which resulted in erroneous accusations of false accounting and theft for 700 postal workers.

Rose in clover

Linda Hall ALISON ROSE, scandal ­ hit former Natwest chief executive, is not foregoing her £2.4 million (€2.81 million) salary package.

Rose, who received £5.2 million (€6.08 million) last year, jumped before she was pushed, resigning in July amid the ‘debanking row’ involving Nigel Farage, whose Coutts accounts were closed owing to his political views. Coutts now belongs to NatWest, still 38.5 per cent owned by the taxpayer following an emergency bailout in 2008.

Allegedly, Rose also leaked information regard­

Clean ammonia

SPAIN’S Fertiberia will work with Norwegian company Horisont Energi on developing Eurpe’s biggest clean ammonia plant.

Both companies signed an initial cooperation agreement to build the plant in February and have now signed another that gives Fertiberia a 50 per cent stake in the Barents Blue project, which has received a subsidy of 482 million Norwegian krone (€41.74 million).

The project uses natural gas from the Barents Sea gas field and will eventually be able to produce a daily 3,000 tons of clean ammonia.

The carbon dioxide resulting from the ammonia production process, will be permanently stored in a ‘geological reservoir’ on the floor of the Barents Sea, 100 kilometres off the Norwegian coast.

Up and down

ing the Ukip leader’s finances to the BBC.

NatWest revealed she would be paid while working the year’s notice specified in her employment contract. Consequently, the 53­yearold will receive a £1.2 million (€1.4 million) salary, £115,566 (€135,261) in pension payments, and approximately £1.2 million (€1.4 million) in NatWest shares.

Rose will still have access to around £26,250 (€30,723) in perks including a company car and chauffeur, life assurance, and personal security. She could also receive bonuses on top of her fixed pay package.

NatWest stressed that Rose’s notice period “would continue to be under review” and, since her pay was subject to clawback regulations, the bank could order her to return a portion of her previous pay should there be evidence of misconduct.

CASA TARADELLAS, known for ready­to­eat pizzas, ham and chorizo, reported 2022 sales of €1.16 billion, 8.5 per cent more than the previous year and the biggest increase since 2011. Despite a record year, the Catalan company announced that owing to increased overheads its profits had fallen for the first time, although it did not reveal the amount involved.

Arm’s length

CAMBRIDGE­BASED chip designer Arm intends to list on New York’s Nasdaq in September and is currently completing the formalities prior to selling shares in the US. Arm did not reveal the number of shares for sale or their price, but its proposed initial public offering (IPO) is believed to be in the region of $70 billion (€64.22 billion).

PAY PACKAGE: Defenestrated Alison Rose on course to receive this year’s salary.

Photo credit: Flickr/HM Treasury

Everyone needs a dinosaur

to sweep the country. At the start of 1958 I received a message from my new agent informing me I was invited to audition for a coming season at the London Palladium in a show entitled ‘Large as Life’.

ENJOY THE FLIGHT OUR VIEW

ODD to be referred to as a Dinosaur in the somewhat derogatory letter published last week. It actually got me thinking how our existence is often steered by those among us who have endured for somewhat considerable periods. Age and experience are of course extremely important to the survival and advancement of the human race. Indeed, if we only relied on the young to guide us in this existence, we probably wouldn’t be allowed to continue beyond the age of around 25!

I do however agree that some of our older representatives can be a total pain in the proverbial to those eager to forge ahead. It got me thinking of my own experiences with those I considered to belong to an age gone by. In the early 50s, my teenage band had attained some measure of success with the introduction of skiffle, which had begun

Advertising Feature

The pop era was in its infancy and there were still only a small number of UK singers actually involved in this new form of entertainment. I duly auditioned and to my surprise and delight I was actually selected for the show. My skiffle band were not invited as it required Rock n Roll, so it was with a great sadness I decided to leave my beloved group and join the new band that was being formed from jazz and session musicians. It was led by a brilliant saxophone player Rex Morris, who later joined up with ‘Lord Rockingham’s Eleven’, having a hit with ‘There’s a Moose Loose Around this Hoose’ the following year.

The show was to be a presentation of music through the ages. This entailed beginning with minuets and culminating in the new phenomena of RnR. We were told to rehearse four songs for our spot in the final

part of the production. Rex and I attacked the rehearsals with gusto. Unfortunately the other members were jazz men who also hated the new music. Still, we were soon ready. Then the bomb dropped. The producer also despised RnR! He was in fact, yes you’ve guessed it; a Dinosaur! In the end he cut us down to one song (’Whole Lotta Woman’).

He actually went further and even excluded us from the printed programme. We always stormed the show and I even delightfully gained a short fling with Hattie Jacques, who was starring with Harry Secombe and Terry Thomas among others. But we never got anywhere. He also left us out of the Royal Variety Command Performance that year. The show itself was a resounding success but Leapy’s career hit a brick wall. All down to a Dinosaur, who actually gave the public a great show. So you see we do need our Dinosaurs. Even though they are sometimes difficult to agree with. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

THERE is no question that whilst air travel is an absolute necessity in today’s world, it can be stressful and often bring the worst out of travellers.

Unless you are very rich or have a job which allows you to travel in business or first class, the majority of travellers look to get the best deal, often travelling at inconvenient times in order to save money.

It’s something of a conundrum however as the socalled economy airlines continue to create packages which only offer the barest of options such as a seat and access to the aircraft and then passengers have to go through a maze of options regarding baggage, seat position and much more before arriving at a final price.

Then to cap things off, if you don’t follow all of the instructions to the letter then you can find yourself having to pay out even more once you are at the airport to get your bag in the right place and heaven help you if you haven’t downloaded your boarding pass properly.

Assuming the flight isn’t cancelled (which is happening more and more) and you find your seat (which for most people will be cramped) you might discover that fellow passengers are drunk and fighting or that you can’t get a snack on board because it wasn’t booked in advance or the airline doesn’t take cash!

Now some airlines are offering passengers a new option whereby if you pay a premium, you will be seated in an ‘Adults Only’ cabin so in theory you won’t be sat next to screaming babies or noisy children, although how a simple curtain will silence them is not revealed.

NEATER HEATER WANT ‘SQUIRRELS’ AS CUSTOMERS

RICHARD and Tony from NEATER HEATER are urging all our readers to start preparing for next winter now. “We really want peo ple to imitate SQUIRRELS” said Tony “As we know; all the other woodland crea tures just laze about in the summer, relaxing. So when the winter comes they have to furiously compete with each other for the scraps left over or hide ­ away and hiber nate, waiting for next summer. But not the squirrels! Squirrels plan for the winter by hoard ing nuts, berries and seeds in the summer, so when winter comes they are well prepared for it, and are able to enjoy themselves on

SQUIRRELS: Are well prepared for the winter during the summer and so should you be.

those nice bright winter days when the sun does come out. They are obviously the wisest creatures in the wood. And that is what we want our customers to be.”

“What Tony is trying to say” interjected Richard, “is that when winter finally arrives in Spain, Northern Europe has been cold for months. This means that Chilly Czechs, Frozen Fins and Shivering Swedes have been stripping the shelves for months. Every year we have panicking customers calling us in December, des ­

perate to have heaters supplied and fitted by Christmas. Frequently these customers have to compromise on their choice, or be put at the back of a long queue. Every year we think to ourselves ­ ‘It’s a shame you didn’t order them in the summer when we had loads of them in stock and, equally as important, the time to process the orders’.”

NEATER HEATER is the sole Spanish distributor for BEHA and ADAX NEO convector heaters. We currently have more stock than ever before at various locations, just waiting for the ‘squirrels’. Please feel free to call us on 634 312 171 for more information, or visit our website www.neaterheater.es , or email info@neaterheater.es.

Liability insurance for dogs

THERE has been a great deal of reader comment about the introduction of mandatory third party liability insurance for owners and their dogs.

The general opinion appears to be that it’s either a waste of time and can’t be properly enforced or it’s a money making project (as insurance is taxed) which is go­

Comments

Some 9.3 million dogs in Spain, they estimate lowest cost of insurance about €24 per dog , you do the maths. Was this law written by the insurance companies and of course each policy carries tax. What do you do if you foster dogs for a charity or a stray that is not chipped, has no legal owner, but under the new law the municipality has to take it in and fund all the feeding and vets’ bills .

Brian Flude

Does this apply to UK visitors who bring their dogs to Spain for a month or two?

Colin Compton

In reply to Brian: Such a stupid law and it will probably lead to hundreds of dogs being abandoned. Owners who would love to be able to afford a health insurance for their pet are now being forced into a public liability insurance… even if they have a gentle pet that would never harm anyone.

Tobi

Waste of time. How about compulsory insurance for cyclists????

Roy

Apparently, this still has to be passed by the various communitates which are able to ignore it if they wish. There is likely to be a three­month introductory period as nothing is in place as yet, including the online exam to ensure (not a joke) that you can handle your dogs. Here in Valencia Vox now rule, who are sceptical about welfare acts that over ­ reach the problem, so it is possible they will ignore it.

Peter Squires

I agree with Tobi, I am a pensioner with three rescue dogs and this bill will be added to an ever­decreasing income. My dogs are gentle and well ­ behaved, kept on a lead in public, are microchipped and vaccinated. This new law will solve nothing in the welfare of the mistreatment of dogs, but will only cause hardship to the

ing to particularly hurt pensioners who don’t have a great deal of spare money but rely upon the comfort of their dogs.

Currently many dogs are not chipped and there are daily reports of pets being abandoned without a thought, so maybe this will be another law ‘more honoured in the breach than the observance’.

kind souls who rescue them.

Marileen

What is the impact of this law on tourists travelling from outside the EU with a dog? Does the liability coverage they may have as part of a homeowner’s insurance policy meet the law’s requirements?

Lee Johansen

So what happens to the owners of hunting dogs as they are not even in the animal welfare law here in Spain, which is a disgrace… like they are nothing.

Brian

Yet another necessary yet useless law. Useless because it will not be policed, laws prohibiting dogs on beaches for instance. I live opposite a very busy beach where one of the laws is NO DOGS. There are hundreds of dogs allowed to roam free, unleashed with no police intervention, actually no police presence to be seen and this is in the centre of town. Dog licences should be mandatory, and enforce micro chipping for all pups.

Alan

Great treatment

Hi Leapy, I read with interest, as I always do your columns, about you having a pacemaker, and your praise for the hospitals etc. Like you I have just had my third one fitted, and I also cannot praise the Alicante hospital, and the care I have received enough. Since 2004, the treatment has been brilliant. This latest one has a device by my bed that communicates the information directly to the hospital, 40kms away, they can monitor, adjust etc ... real hi tech! ... just hope they have not put a tracker on it...hahaha. Anyway I hope yours will keep you in good shape, I will clock 80 in January, and feel very lucky to live in Spain.

PS. Last time I saw you was in a bar in Golf del Sur, Tenerife, we all got up and sang a few songs. The guy I was with, John, a drummer, had connections with the Gidea Park band , nice memories.

Best wishes regards Pete Rafferty X

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Insurance for dog owners

STARTING September 29, 2023, a significant legal change will take effect in Spain, requiring all dog owners to secure public liability insurance for their pets. This new regulation, marking a noteworthy stride towards safety and responsible pet ownership, aims to provide financial security in incidents involving dogs, safeguarding both owners and potential victims.

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PET OWNERSHIP: New rule provides financial security.

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Pitch perfect

THE Enrique Roca Stadium has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the collaboration between Real Murcia and the esteemed engineering firm Royalverd renowned for their pitch expertise. The project began with an overhaul of the irrigation system, effectively addressing long­standing issues including shade­related challenges caused by the stadium’s roof.

The introduction of advanced sprinklers ensured optimal maintenance. The next phase witnessed the installation of specialised turf rolls, featuring the robust ‘latitude 36’ Bermuda grass ­ a resilient variety tailored to extreme climates. This hybrid model was anticipated to enhance endurance in both winter and summer, promising longevity and visual appeal.

The meticulous process involved precision refrigerated transport of the turf from Toledo to maintain ideal conditions. A team of skilled professionals worked diligently to level and prepare the ground using

cutting­edge technology. This noteworthy investment highlights their dedication to the growth and promotion to La Liga Hypermotion. They announced happily on their

Last-minute win

social media accounts that the new grass has been installed and the pitch will be ready for their first home game of the season against Cordoba on Saturday, September 2.

Cartagena’s struggles

IN a disappointing turn of events, FC Cartagena suffered their third consecutive loss of the season on their home turf at Estadio Municipal Cartagonova. Going head­to­head against Levante UD, Cartagena was unable to secure a victory, with Giorgi Kochorashvili of Levante UD netting the only goal in the 25th minute.

The match started with Cartagena displaying a promising level of intensity, but their inability to convert chances into goals proved to

be their downfall. This defeat leaves FC Cartagena without a single victory in the current season, highlighting their struggle to find their footing.

It’s evident the team’s offensive ability needs improvement, as they failed to capitalise on opportunities. If Cartagena aims to remain competitive this season, investing in their squad appears to be a necessity. This is their worst league start since returning to Segunda in 2020 with zero points.

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SAILING enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The Race Committee has officially released the schedule for the upcoming Autumn Race Series.

The confirmed race dates are as follows: September 10, 17, 20, October 8, 15, 22, 25, November 5, 12, 19, 22, December 3, and 10.

Notably, for Sundays, the race dates are in black, while Wednesdays are in red.

The committee has explained that the absence of dates at the end of September is due to other events being held at CAR. As the season progresses, additional notifications regarding other events might arise. The races will adhere to the established format, with participants required to arrive by 10.00am and the first race expected to begin around 11.15am. The customary entrance fee of €6 will apply.

IN Real Murcia’s opening match of the season they clashed with Recreativo Granada at Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes. The encounter proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions for fans on both sides. In the 59th minute, Real Murcia’s fortunes took a hit as Angel Montoro scored an own goal, granting Granada a 1­0 advantage.

As the clock ticked down, the tension in the air grew palpable. In a breathtaking twist, Rodri came to the rescue for Real Murcia, expertly finding the back of the net in the 85th minute, levelling the playing field. But the drama didn’t stop there. In a stunning display of determination, Alex Rubio emerged as the hero of the day for Real Murcia, delivering a last­gasp winner in the 93rd minute.

The elation on the faces of the Real Murcia players and their supporters that travelled to Granada was a testament to the fighting spirit shown by the team. Real Murcia will face Cordoba at home on September 2.

Katir’s triumph

from the Region de Murcia narrowly missed winning the 5,000m final in a historic race at the World Athletics Championships.

The competition showcased one of the best 5,000m finals ever, with an exhilarating sprint to the finish line. Katir’s near ­ glory moment was overshadowed by

Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s breathtaking surge, passing him at the last moment to claim victory. This reversal of fortune was reminiscent of Katir’s own move against him in the 1,500m final just days prior.

Mo Katir’s resilience shone through as he secured the silver medal, reflecting on his progress and asserting his presence in the sport.

Despite challenges and criticism, Katir’s dedication and desire for respect fuel his pursuit of victory. His eyes are now set on the Olympics as Katir aims to complete the circle with a gold medal.

PHOTO FINISH: Katir and Ingebrigtsen’s epic showdown.

Image: X @realmurciacfsad

Rodri’s equaliser sparks Real Murcia’s spirited comeback in season opener.

Image: X/ @realmurciacfsad

RENEWED TURF: A resilient foundation for Real Murcia’s future.

Image: X/@atletismoRFEA

Cartagena’s misfortune continues.

Image: Facebook/FC Cartagena