Costa Blanca North 9 – 15 November 2023 Issue 2001

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Issue No. 2001

9 - 15 November 2023

HERE'S WHY EXPATS LIVING IN SPAIN ARE GETTING NO FUSS CREMATIONS

Brits living in Spain are beating the rising costs of funerals by doing this As expats living in Spain, we plan for most eventualities in a foreign country. There is a lot to think about when a language barrier could cause problems down the road. But there is one important matter that most of us fail to get ready for.

It's something that is certain to come and cannot be avoided...

Death!

A recent report 1 shows the average cost of dying in Spain is continuing to rise, with the average price of a burial without luxuries or extras in October 2021 more than €3,700.

But these costs can mask real variations from city to city, ranging from €2,500 for a burial in Cadiz to over €6,000 for the same in Vigo!

With funeral costs much greater than many expats had anticipated, it can be hard for many to find a way to give the send­off their loved ones deserve. And to make matters even worse, the funeral process in Spain is much faster than you may be used to at home in the UK. The funeral fee has to be fully paid prior to the funeral being conducted and that often means that the invoice needs to be settled immediately.

Certainly, within 40­72 hours of the passing of your loved one!

But as expats, can you do something to avoid these excessive costs for your loved ones?

Yes absolutely.

The solution is simple...by planning with a Golden Leaves no fuss direct cremation.

Many expats are now choosing this cheaper no­fuss option.

And it's no wonder with the paperwork that comes with organising a funeral in Spain.

Recently, people's thoughts on a funeral have changed with more and more opting for a no fuss direct cremation as it allows families to organise a more personal send­off without the additional cost and a traditional funeral service.

What is a direct cremation plan?

A Golden Leaves direct cremation plan is a cremation with no funeral service.

So there is no expensive coffin, no viewing at the chapel of rest and no mourners.

However, families can choose to have the ashes returned or respectfully disposed of.

Is a direct cremation a good idea?

Here are top 7 reasons for choosing a direct cremation 1. Save money 2. Don't want family going through an upsetting service at a funeral directors or 'tanatorio' 3. Don't believe in funerals 4. Prefer to leave money to family than spend it on funeral costs

5. Family would rather have a celebration of life than a funeral service 6. Few people or no one to attend a funeral or family having to travel thousands of miles 7. Save time dealing with bureaucracy and red tape Why a direct, 'unattended' cremation is the best choice for expats in Spain in 2023 Given the rising costs of funerals in Spain, it's even more important to lock in a cost and plan that will not increase in the future and meets all your needs.

With a Golden Leaves direct cremation plan in place, the cost of the funeral director and the cremation will be protected from any rising costs in the future.

What Next?

To get a quote for a Golden Leaves Direct Cremation Plan call 0034 966 493 082 or drop into our office located at Avenida De La Pla 123 – 125, Edificio Caribe, Local 1, Javea 03730, Alicante 1 ­ https://www.ocu.org/dinero/seguros/informe/servicios­funerarios­morir­sale­caro

Costa Blanca • Issue No. 2001 • 9 - 15 November 2023

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Bob Marquess "WITH 320 days of sunshine each year, Alicante has a compelling draw for British travellers seeking to explore its gastronomy, culture, and leisure offerings,” according to Alicante’s mayor, Luis Bar­ cala.

The mayor shared this inviting insight during the launch of the ‘Alicante City: Where Summer Never Ends’ campaign at the World Trav­ el Market fair in London, which ran until November 8.

The campaign paints Lon­ don, Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh with a touch of Alicante’s sunshine, fea­ turing images and slogans on 175 buses from the World Travel Market’s start to De­ cember 3.

Additionally, 38 digital screens displaying sunny Ali­ cante days have appeared in London streets since November 1, while 50 more can be seen on the city’s main metro lines until

Image: Ayuntamiento de Alicante

Alicante beckons Alicante is a compelling draw for British travellers.

November 13, and an addi­ tional 35 in central Manch­ ester from November 13 to 26.

In total, 123 screens throughout these cities fea­ ture various aspects of Ali­ cante bathed in sunlight.

The mayor also highlight­

ed the city’s key attractions, emphasising its delightful gastronomy centred around rice dishes, a rich cultural scene featuring the iconic Castle of Santa Barbara, the Old Town, and the year­ round beachfront activities.

He added that the city’s

FREI

maritime façade has under­ gone significant renovations, making it more accessible and pedestrian­friendly.

The primary goal is to cap­ italise on the excellent direct air connections with 20 UK cities in the upcoming months and further bolster British tourism.

As the mayor explained, the British market is already a significant contributor to Alicante’s tourism, account­ ing for 27.5 per cent of hotel overnight stays in Septem­ ber.

To maintain this growth, the campaign aims to secure the estimated one million passengers with 5,236 flights scheduled until March.

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9 - 15 November 2023

GIVING4GIVING has been in full swing during September and October, spreading their generosity far and wide.

Their remarkable contribu­ tions include an impressive €1,600 generously donated to Busy Bees Benidorm.

Barc Animal Rescue re­ ceived a heartwarming gift of €1,000.

The British Legion, Pro­ ject4All, Doggie Angels, Cora­ zon Express, and Anemona Cancer Charity each received a much­needed boost of €1,000 and, with some fes­ tive cheer, €400 was set aside for A Treat For Christ­ mas.

This astonishingly sums up to a grand total of €8,000 dis­ bursed over the past two

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Giving4Giving Christmas comp Image: Giving4Giving / Facebook

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GIVING4GIVING: Rely on support of donors and volunteers.

months, and it’s nothing short of remarkable.

This brings their overall do­ nation tally to a whopping

ONCE again, the Benidorm Patronal Major Festivals are embracing sus­ tainability with the ‘Sustainable Festi­ vals’ campaign.

Coca­Cola has contributed to the cause by delivering 10,000 reusable hard plastic cups for the upcoming festivities.

The primary goal is to promote en­ vironmental consciousness and sus­ tainability, as noted by the councillor for the Environment, Monica Gomez.

The councillor emphasised that

€292,000.

Giving4Giving remains as dedicated as ever, and they rely on the support of kind­

Role model such actions position the city as a sus­ tainability role model.

Ramon Alonso, the head of com­ munication and marketing at Coca­ Cola, reaffirmed his company’s com­ mitment to advancing the circular economy and reducing raw material usage.

He confirmed: “This collaboration will extend to other massive events

hearted donors and volun­ teers.

If you’re interested in lend­ ing a hand or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Additionally, they offer a house clearance service.

For more information or to get involved, simply get in touch with Gary on (+34) 603 137 697.

Your contributions and support can make a signifi­ cant difference in their ongo­ ing mission to give back to the community.

reinforcing our dedication to sustain­ ability.”

Marilo Cebreros, the councillor for Fiestas, highlighted the positive im­ pact of recycling campaigns, position­ ing Benidorm as a top­ranking sus­ tainable city committed to environmental preservation.

The councillor also commended the festival­goers and supporters for their collective efforts in making Benidorm a better and more sustain­ able city.

THE spirit of Christmas is once again knocking at the doors of Finestrat, and the Finestrat Council invites young talents aged three to 12 to be a part of the festive magic in the 16th ‘Christmas Postcard Con­ test’.

This beloved tradition has seen over 200 enchant­ ing cre­ ations in various categories (children’s, junior, and junior+), each contributing to the warmth and creativity of the holi­ day season.

Sara Llorca, the council­ lor for Youth, confirmed that one of the winning postcards will serve as the official Christmas greeting from Finestrat Town Council.

She said, “We will share the holiday spirit with lo­

Beloved tradition.

cal and provincial administrations, associations, and groups using an image cre­ ated by one of our young neighbours.”

As the holiday season approaches, the councillor encourages children and young artists to unleash their creativity and include a touch of Finestrat’s essence in their artwork.

The contest is open to youngsters aged three to 12, regardless of where they study.

125 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

NIBS EXTRA Chess Open THE Benidorm Chess Open concluded its third edition on November 5, bidding farewell with resounding success, as it garnered en­ thusiastic participation and captivated audiences. This chess extravaganza fea­ tured over 250 chess play­ ers from 26 different coun­ tries and was hosted at the Melia Hotel.

Board brilliance ALTEA’S 10th Board Game Fair on November 4 was a resounding success. Ap­ proximately 1,000 people participated in the event.

The mayor reported that all 450 chairs provided were consistently occupied throughout the day, with some waiting times to ac­ cess them both in the morn­ ing and afternoon.

Gandia gold CLUB Atletisme Gandia Alpesa’s cross­country team, led by Toni Puig, se­ cured a spot in the Spanish Cross Country Champi­ onship with their fourth­ place finish in the Au­ tonomous Championship in Castellon. They now have a direct ticket to compete in the Nacional in Soria on November 19.

Fire upgrade ALICANTE has allocated €3 million for upgrading the Fire Department’s equip­ ment. Ten new command trucks, vans, and all­terrain vehicles worth €2,719,081 have been approved. Ali­ cante also confirmed the supply of 250 helmets, in­ tervention gloves, and 100 helmet flashlights, amount­ ing to €308,066 for personal protective gear.

9 - 15 November 2023

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Discounted travel George Cunningham THE Valencian government is taking significant steps to promote sustainable mo­ bility by offering 50 per cent discounts on public transport until 2024.

This initiative is part of the campaign ‘Get on board with the savings movement with public transport’.

The goal of this campaign is to inform and encourage residents about the advan­ tages of using public trans­ port, emphasising its cost­ effectiveness, safety, comfort, and sustainability.

Public transport is pre­ sented as an ideal choice for both urban and interur­ ban travel.

These discounted fare policies apply to services managed directly by the

REMEMBRANCE DAY: A solemn occasion.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Get on board and make savings.

Department, which in­ cludes interurban lines and the TRAM system.

They also extend to ser­ vices managed by Ferrocar­ rils de la Generalitat (FGV) and the Valencia Metropolitan Transport Authority (ATMV).

To take advantage of these benefits, no special procedures are required.

Bob Marquess THE stage is set, and the excitement is palpable as Villajoyosa gears up for the ‘La Vila Interna­ tional Rugby Cup’ at the El Panta municipal field.

Rugby enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a thrilling showdown!

Already, rugby squads from the United States, Canada, and Brazil have touched down and are in full training mode.

The Spanish team is due to arrive on Novem­ ber 10 to join the action.

On Saturday, November 11, the field will siz­ LIDUVINA GIL, the councillor for International Relations and Agermanaments in Gan­ dia, is set to be honoured with a medal for her unwa­ vering support and assistance to the Ukrainian community, courtesy of the ‘Ukraine Unites Hearts’ association.

This commendable organi­ sation, part of the Federation of Ukrainian Associations in Spain, has put forward Gil’s name as a token of apprecia­ tion for her role in aiding the local Ukrainian population and refugees from their homeland.

Svitlana Shcherbak, the group’s president, empha­ sized Gil’s global impact, not­ ing that three out of the five individuals representing Spain at the recent World Congress of Ukrainians are associated

Image: Finestrat Ayuntamiento / Facebook

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However, young individ­ uals who do not have a youth pass can request one through the Metrovalencia and TRAM d’Alacant web­ sites.

The government have confirmed: “This initiative is a significant step toward promoting sustainable and affordable transportation options in the region.”

Rugby Cup zle with the USA taking on Brazil at 4.00pm, fol­ lowed by Spain facing Canada at 8.00pm.

Mark your calendars because the rugby fren­ zy continues the following Saturday, Novem­ ber 18.

At 4.00pm, it’s time for the third and fourth place decider, and at 8.00pm we will witness the heart­pounding championship final match.

So, rugby fans, get ready for a riveting display of skill, strength, and sportsmanship.

Uniting hearts with ‘Ukraine Unites Hearts’.

In response, the mayor of

Gandia expressed her grati­ tude for this recognition.

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Armistice Day ON November 11 every year, Armistice Day is commemo­ rated in memory of the end of the First World War. Also known as Remem­ brance Day, it is a solemn occa­ sion celebrated in many coun­ tries around the world to honour the historic signing of the armistice agreement be­ tween the Allies and their last remaining enemy, Germany.

In the Commonwealth it is more commonly known as Re­ membrance Day, while in the United States, it is called Veter­ an’s Day. When was the armistice signed?

It was officially signed by the Allied Supreme Commander, French Marshal Ferdinand Foch, at 5.45am on November 11, 1918, at Le Francport near Compiègne in northern France.

The armistice came into force at 11am Central Euro­ pean Time (CET), on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. It represented a commitment to cease fighting between both sides and brought an end to hostilities that had been going on since 1914 on land, sea, and air.

How did WWI start?

Increasing diplomatic ten­ sion between the European powers reached breaking point on June 28, 1914, when Gavrilo Princip, a Bosnian Serb, assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Aus­ tro­Hungarian throne.

As a result, Austria­Hungary held Serbia responsible, and declared war on July 28 of the same year. Russia quickly came to the defence of Serbia which dragged Germany, France, and Britain into the conflict by August 4. In Novem­ ber that year, the Ottoman Empire also joined in.

Honouring Veterans on Armistice Day

Armistice Day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacri­ fices made by countless indi­ viduals during the First World War and to all military person­ nel who have sacrificed their lives for their countries in sub­ sequent conflicts.

The traditional British, Cana­ dian, South African, and AN­ ZAC commemoration is for a minute’s silence to be held on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month.

Observances typically in­ clude ceremonies at war memorials, military parades, and the laying of wreaths to honour the fallen. In Great Britain, the National Service of Remembrance is always held on the nearest Sunday to November 11 at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in London. This year, it will take place on Sun­ day 12. Starting at 11am, the service will commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and wom­ en involved in the two world wars and later conflicts.

Why are poppies recognised as a symbol of remembrance?

Inspired by the famous war poem ‘In Flanders Fields’, writ­ ten by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, red poppies are often worn as a symbol of remem­ brance.

After seeing poppies grow­ ing in the battle­scarred fields of Ypres in Belgium, the Cana­ dian doctor composed the now famous poem in the spring of 1915, shortly after losing a friend.

As described on the Royal British Legion’s website, red poppies are a show of support for the Armed Forces commu­ nity, those currently serving, and ex­serving personnel and their families. They also serve as a symbol of remembrance for all those who have fallen in conflict.

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9 - 15 November 2023

RACING car drivers par­ ticipating in the 29th La Nucia­Mediterranean Rally ‘Trofeo Costa Blanca’ gathered on Sat­ urday November 4 at the Plaza de sus Majes­ t a d e s l o s R e y e s d e E s­ pañas, following the completion of the initial stages of the second and final race.

The event was warmly welcomed by the coun­ cillor for Sports, Javier Jordá, and other mem­ bers of the local govern­ ment team in Benidorm.

After this brief respite, the drivers were all set to continue their competition, which would take them through various parts of the province, with the finish line initially planned for La Nucia, shortly before 6.00pm.

Flying visit Image: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm / Faceboo

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CHALLENGING RALLY: Eight international teams participated.

This competition, sup­ ported by the Alicante Provincial Council, was designed in 12 challeng­ ing sections, spanning a total of 600 kilometres,

with 151 kilometres designated for the com­ petition.

Eight international teams participated, and the rally served as the penultimate scoring event for the 2023 Spanish Rally Champi­ onship, promising an exciting and competi­ tive showdown for all involved.

LOCAL NEWS

Natural beauty IN a visionary move, Gandia has taken a significant step to boost its tourist appeal by acquiring the magnificent Peña Roja.

This striking natural wonder, nestled in Marxuquera, is now under municipal ownership after a successful purchase by the council from its previous owner, the Alpí Gandia Club.

The mayor, Jose Manuel Prieto Part, voiced the council’s unwavering dedication to providing Peña Roja with the essential infrastructure for safe climbing.

The broader vision is to establish Peña Roja as a captivating attraction that not only draws adventure seekers but also contributes to the noble goal of deseasonalising tourism in the region.

Peña Roja, with its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views, possesses the potential to become a year-round destination, enticing travellers with its natural beauty and thrilling climbing experiences.

Finestrat honour

IN a momentous event at the 39th Alicante Provincial Sports Gala held at the ADDA auditorium, young taekwondo sensation Violeta Díaz Ar­ ribas, hailing from Finestrat, achieved a well­deserved recognition, the ‘Antonio Cutillas Award’ for Sports Promise.

A mere 14 years old, Violeta, repre­ senting the Finestrat Taekwondo Club, has already accomplished an impres­

sive feat in the sports world by becom­ ing the 2023 European Junior Runners­ up Champion in Estonia.

And the winning streak doesn’t stop there; just this past weekend, Violeta once again emerged victorious in Ro­ mania, securing a Gold medal in the

Open Junior Taekwondo com­ petition.

Beatriz Quintillan, the Sports councillor, expressed her admiration, saying, “We are incredibly proud of Vio­ leta.

“The recognition from the Alicante Provincial Council truly reflects her un­ wavering determination, hard work, and dedication.”

PROVERB OF THE WEEK

“Great Scott!”

Famous quote from Back to the Future which was made in 1985. While it's unclear exactly why director Zemeckis and writer Bob Gale went with ‘Great Scott!’ for Doc Brown's trademark phrase, it was born out of a belief that the character should have one.

Jan 1, 1985 First mobile call in UK made by Ernie Wise to Vodafone.

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Anna Ellis BENIDORM Town Hall As­ sembly Hall was buzzing with excitement on Mon­ day November 6 as the public embarked on a nos­ talgic journey back to the late 1950s in Benidorm.

The occasion was the screening of ‘Benidorm from a Tourist’s Perspec­ tive’, a captivating compi­ lation of home videos shot by a German family during their vacation amidst the tourism boom of that era.

‘Benidorm from a

9 - 15 November 2023

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A Tourist’s view Tourist’s View’ is a de­ lightful collection of im­ ages captured by a Ger­ man family during their visit to Benidorm in 1957.

These home videos, taken with a vintage cam­ era, chronicle their initial journey from Cologne to Benidorm, where they embarked on a holiday adventure.

In a remarkable act of

50th Anniversary ON November 4, the municipality of Teulada came alive to celebrate the momentous 50th anniversary of its iconic local band.

In a vibrant and musical tribute to their enduring legacy, 20 groups from the Marina Alta region con­ gregated to fill the streets with the magic of their music.

The highlight of this jubilant gathering was a colourful parade that featured the participation of 23 musical groups from across the region, totalling nearly 700 talented performers.

This magnificent musical parade served as the grand finale to the celebrations commemorating the 50th anniversary of the local association.

It paid homage to traditional melodies and show­ cased the deep­seated passion for music that has united the Marina Alta and the entire Valencian Community over the years.

Hector Andres Agulles, the president of the Teu­ lada Musical Cultural Group, expressed his joy and pride in the achievement of this significant mile­ stone, underscoring the dedicated effort that has propelled the band to this remarkable point.

He also conveyed his excitement for the conclu­ sion of a music­filled 2023, supported by musicians from across the region.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm

LOCAL NEWS

A nostalgic journey.

generosity, Maximilian Greeven donated all these invaluable record­ ings to the Municipal Archive.

Over the years, the archive has been dedicat­ ed to building a treasure trove of audiovisual ma­ terials to enrich the testi­ mony, resources, and in­ sights into the town’s recent history.

‘Benidorm from a Tourist’s Perspective’ serves as a poignant win­ dow into the past, pre­ serving the magic of Benidorm during its early days as a tourist destina­ tion.

Adrenaline-packed THE first weekend of November was a thrilling spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts as thousands of spectators flocked to the La Nucía Rally.

The event kicked off with the Timed Qualification Section (TCC), where ‘Co­ hete’ Suarez, behind the wheel of his Skoda, blazed his way to becoming the fastest driver.

The excitement reached a fever pitch during the Starting Ceremony held at the Auditori de Les Nits, where an enthusiastic crowd of fans gathered.

It was a moment of pure joy for the local motorsport community and the Marina Baixa region.

A total of 86 participating

cars were proudly flagged off for the 29th La Nucía Rally­Costa Blanca Trophy, with a special tribute to the esteemed driver, Miguel Fuster, a six­time champion of Spain, who made a tri­ umphant return to the competition.

He, along with ‘Cohete’ Suarez, Pepe Lopez, and Jos Verstappen (father of the triple Formula 1 world champion Max Verstap­ pen), received roaring ap­ plause from the crowd.

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9 - 15 November 2023

Mar Festival GET ready for a musical extravaganza like no oth­ er on the beautiful shores of Javea.

The Mar de Javea Festi­ val is back, and this time, it’s all about the vibrant

world of Spanish pop­in­ die music.

This event is a unique addition to the local festi­ val scene that you won’t want to miss.

Save the date: March

29 and 30, 2024, right in the heart of Holy Week.

Mar de Javea promises to be an exceptional fes­ tival, featuring some of the biggest names in pop­ indie music that regularly rock massive arenas.

Over two incredible days, around 10 renowned artists will take the stage, including the already confirmed acts, Taburete and Mar­ lon.

Mar de Javea won’t just be about the music; it will offer a fantastic food truck area, a desig­ nated purple point, and a commitment to sustain­ ability that aligns with the values of other great festivals.

Keep peeled for more information.

Bob Marquess THE roar of Harley motor­ cycles is set to take over El Campello’s Plaza Vir­ gen del Carmen in a high­ ly anticipated weekend event.

The excitement begins on Friday, November 10, at 7.00pm when DJ Evo Rock takes the stage, set­ ting the tone for a lively evening that continues at 11.00pm with a perfor­ mance by Confort Kills.

Saturday brings more excitement, starting at 5.30pm with Tony and the Rockheavyllies, followed

by Jaleo at 8.00pm, and fi­ nally, a captivating perfor­ mance by Blackout at mid­ night.

The festivities extend in­ to Sunday with DJ Evo Rock returning at 7.00pm, and Comfort Kills closing the event with a powerful show starting at 11.00pm.

Throughout the three­

Nora Shephard O N November 5, the Benidorm Beaches Volleyball Club held a grand presentation event at the Raul Mesa Pavilion, introducing all the teams that form the club for the 2023/2024 season.

The club continues to be under the leadership of Mario Rodriguez as its president.

The event was a huge success, with a packed pavilion filled with enthusiastic supporters who came to celebrate and cheer on a total of 264 young athletes.

These players represent various

LOCAL NEWS

Biker fun

Image: Ayuntamiento de El Campello

HARLEYS ROAR: A highly anticipated weekend event.

day celebration, the square and its surround­ ings will be transformed into a motorcycle par­ adise, offering enthusiasts the chance to admire the impressive machines on display.

Exciting routes through

the municipality and sur­ prises are also in store, al­ though the details are be­ ing kept under wraps to maintain an air of antici­ pation.

All types of motorcycles are welcome to join in on the fun.

Beaches volleyball Image: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm

BenidormBeaches Volleyball Club.

categories within the club, spanning from juniors to seniors, and including the Pequevoley section.

In addition to showcasing the

talented youth players, the event served as the official introduction of the members of the Servigroup Benidorm men’s team.

This season, the team welcomed new additions in the form of Jorge Anane and Walter Bortoleto.

The women’s team, HolaCV.es Benidorm, also proudly presented their new players, Juliennis Regalado and Sofia Gase, promising an exciting season ahead for both the men’s and women’s teams.

LOCAL NEWS

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LOCAL and provincial authorities have joined forces.

They are now addressing a long­standing demand from residents with the construction of a roundabout on the road that connects Al­ tea with La Nucia, right at the existing intersec­ tion in front of Peugeot.

This historic project, which has already com­ pleted the public exhibition phase and re­ ceived approval, is a significant step forward,

Beware of impersonators IN a recent alert, Calpe Council has raised a red flag for its residents, highlighting a concerning issue that has surfaced in the community.

The warning revolves around a dubious individual allegedly conducting gas checks within private residences, primarily targeting elderly homeowners.

However, the truth is far from reassuring as Calpe Council unequivocally denies any involvement in such activities.

The message from the Council is crystal clear: “Calpe Council does not perform gas checks on residential properties.”

To safeguard your home and your peace of mind, the council advises residents to exercise caution and diligence.

Their recommendation is: “Never grant access to your home to anyone claiming to be conducting gas checks unless you have previously applied for such a service through the proper channels.”

Instead, the council urges residents to reach out directly to their gas supplier company for any legitimate gas-related concerns.

9 - 15 November 2023

Joining forces according to Aurora Serrat, the mayor of In­ frastructure.

Serrat emphasised, “This roundabout has been a much­anticipated infrastructure for the local community. The Altea Town Council con­

A Perfect picnic

Image: Halay Alex / Shutterstock.com

PICNIC IN THE PARK: The event was hugely successful.

ON October 29, at Casa Santonja Manor House in Beniar­ beig, Cancer Care Javea marked a joyous occasion, their 25th anniversary, with a memorable Picnic in the Park.

It was an event brimming with success and cama­ raderie.

The charity extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who played a role in making this celebration a resound­ ing triumph.

Whether you contributed, donated, volunteered, or sponsored, your support was invaluable.

In the days, weeks, and months to come, the charity will be singing your praises from the rooftops.

But for now, they are thrilled to announce an astonish­ ing achievement ­ a drumroll, please ­ a remarkable €7,000 raised!

That’s right, you read it correctly. After covering ex­ penses, a grand total of €7,000 has been garnered, and the generosity is still pouring in.

This substantial sum will go a long way in providing es­ sential assistance to local community members battling cancer.

veyed the request to the Provincial Council, which owns the road.

“The project now has official approval, and the next stage involves acquiring the land nec­ essary for the construction of this vital infras­

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tructure.”

The councillor added: “It’s an essential move to enhance road safety at a point where traffic is dense and joining the highway from the in­ tersecting roads has been perilous.”

A budget of €300,000 has been allocated for the roundabout’s construction and promises to improve traffic conditions for residents in ru­ ral areas of Altea and the thousands of road users travelling between Altea and La Nucia.

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9 - 15 November 2023

ALICANTE has made its mark on the annual Forbes list of the country’s 100 wealthiest individuals.

Adolfo Utor, the owner of the shipping company Baleària, continues to rep­ resent Alicante, securing a position at 91 with a for­ tune estimated at €350 mil­ lion. Utor’s wealth in­

Rich List creased by €50 million from the previous year, thanks to his company’s impressive 42 per cent growth in rev­ enue, reaching €563 mil­ lion.

In Valencia, the business

titan Juan Roig, president and majority shareholder of Mercadona, takes the fifth spot with an estimated wealth of €3.9 billion, a sig­ nificant increase of around €500 million from the previ­ ous Forbes list.

His wife, Hortensia Her­ rero, who owns 27 per cent of the supermarket chain’s shares, ranks 15th this year, even though she has slipped four places. Her wealth has grown by ap­ proximately €300 million, reaching €2.2 billion.

The Valencian presence on the list doesn’t stop there. It includes prominent figures such as Fernando Roig, owner of the tile com­ pany Pamesa, Antonio Pel­ licer, founder of the Valen­ cian Institute of Infertility (IVI), and Asunción Mazanet, the largest share­ holder of Porcelanosa.

GET ready for an evening of excitement and musical revelations on Saturday, November 11, as RTVE (Ra­ diotelevision Española) un­ veils the star­studded line­ up for Benidorm Fest 2024.

The grand announce­ ment will take place during a dazzling gala event in Sevilla, kicking off at 6.30pm, and you can catch all the action live on RTVE Play.

But that’s not all! The gala promises more than just a list of names.

It will also feature thrilling performances by some of the most sensa­ tional artists from the previ­ ous editions of Benidorm Fest.

Once the Benidorm Fest 2024 artist roster is re­ vealed, all eyes and efforts

IN an interesting development, Altea’s councillor of Citizen Security, Deo Sanchez convened with the Association of Chiefs and Commanders of the Local Police of the Valencian Community, known as Uni­ jempol.

The focus of the gathering was high­ level training activities for enhancing the

LOCAL NEWS

The big reveal Image: gpointstudio / Shutterstock.com

8

BENIDORM FEST: Line-up will be revealed.

will be focused on organis­ ing the grand event, set to take place at the end of January and beginning of February in Benidorm.

This event is not just a music festival; it’s the plat­ form where Spain’s repre­ sentative for Eurovision will be chosen, and next year,

Altea security skills and knowledge of the Local Police.

Unijempol is committed to fostering municipal responsibility for security issues and promoting innovative management models in Local Police services, ensuring

Eurovision will be held in Malmo, Sweden.

This year, an impressive 825 proposals were submit­ ted, making it a fierce com­ petition.

Benidorm Fest 2024 promises to be an unforget­ table showcase of Spain’s finest musical talents!

the delivery of high­quality services.

This aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Altea Town Council.

Hence, a collaborative partnership is taking shape between Unijempol and the Department of Citizen Security to bring fresh training initiatives to our police force.

FEATURE

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN

9

Protect and grow your wealth Whether you have capital to invest, or it’s time to review your portfolio to keep it on track, there are five key aspects to address for successful investment.

1) Tax and estate planning considerations A tax-efficient structure can keep most of your investments in one place and provide legitimate protection from paying too much tax. Ensure as much of your hard-earned wealth as possible is placed in the most suitable structure to limit your tax liabilities. Also consider your estate planning wishes, so your capital can be passed to your heirs as easily and tax efficiently as possible.

Here in Spain, with a foreign tax and succession system and various changes over the years, it is crucial to take advice from someone who is well-versed in the nuances of the Spanish regimes and how they can impact your wealth.

2) Your appetite for investment risk Of course, no risk often means

By Brett Hanson, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

no returns. And arguably even bank accounts carry risk, as we saw with the last banking crisis.

We also have inflation risk, where the rising cost of living erodes the spending power of bank deposits over time. Most of us recognise that for some of our assets, exposure to market movements gives us a better chance of outperforming inflation and producing real returns over the medium to long term.

However, the starting point has to be to obtain a clear and objective assessment of your appetite for risk.

Otherwise, the result will be an investment portfolio that is not suitable for you.

There are some sophisticated ways of evaluating your risk appetite, involving psychometric assessments and consideration of your other assets and the investment objectives.

3) The optimum investment portfolio Every set of investments can be forecast to display a given amplitude of risk. Low amplitude, less investment risk but also lower likely returns. A higher amplitude of risk brings greater potential returns but also higher investment risk. The key is ensuring your investment portfolio matches your attitude to risk.

It is extremely difficult to effectively assess your own risk profile; you will benefit from third party professional objective guidance.

Otherwise your portfolio may be

too risky or too cautious for you.

Another key initial step is to establish your objectives. Are you looking for income, growth, or preserve your wealth for children?

What is your time horizon? Your adviser should then help you build a portfolio to match your risk profile and objectives.

4) Diversification The next component is to ensure your investments are suitably diversified and not over-exposed to any given asset type, country, sector or stock.

By spreading across different asset types (such as equities, government bonds, corporate bonds, property, cash) and geographical markets, you give your portfolio the chance to produce positive returns over time without being vulnerable to any single area or stock underperforming.

This sound investment approach can be extended by utilising a 'multi-manager', approach.

5) Reviews

Finally, review your portfolio around once a year to re-balance it, which your adviser should do as part of their continuing service. As asset values change, your portfolio can shift away from the one designed to match your risk profile and objectives, and you may need to adjust your weighting. Consider if your circumstances have changed and the implications for your portfolio.

Regular re-balancing helps control risk and can have a positive effect on portfolio performance.

Five key principles which applied well can help you have the peace of mind to sleep at night, while your investments and investment managers work to your requirements.

Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice.

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

10 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

Image: La Vila Joiosa Ayuntamiento

ENRICHING JOURNEY: Immersing in the town’s historic and cultural treasures.

Tourism specialists RECENTLY, La Villajoyosa had the pleasure of hosting five talented journalists and influ­ encers hailing from digital me­ dia outlets with a keen focus on tourism in Norway, Fin­ land, and Ireland.

These travel enthusiasts represent well­known publi­ cations such as Matka in Fin­ land, The Connaught Tele­ graph in Ireland, and Norwegian travel blogs Reis­ ermedglede and Reisekick.

During their stay, these dedicated professionals em­ barked on an enriching jour­

ney through the town, im­ mersing themselves in its his­ torical and cultural treasures.

Their itinerary included a visit to Vilamuseu, where they delved into the fascinating his­ tory and ongoing research re­ lated to the Bou Ferrer Ro­ man remains.

They explored the muse­ um’s collection of amphorae and wandered through the captivating permanent exhibi­ tion titled ‘The Treasures of Villajoyosa’.

But that’s not all; they also strolled through the pic­

turesque city centre, took in the panoramic views from Al­ lon termes, and wandered through the historic old town.

The tour wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to the splendid church of the Mare de Deu de l’Assumpcio, and of course, a leisurely walk along the central beach.

These journalists were part of an exciting press trip organ­ ised by the Costa Blanca Tourism Board.

The journey also included visits to other captivating cities such as Elche and Denia.

OCTOBER was an exciting time on the Costa Blanca as it welcomed an influx of for­ eign tourists, breathing new life into the region.

The latest data from the hotel association Hosbec paints a vivid picture of this trend, revealing that interna­ tional visitors made up a whopping 68.8 per cent of all guests, while domestic trav­ ellers accounted for the re­ maining 31.2 per cent.

Benidorm, in particular, enjoyed a vibrant month with an impressive hotel oc­ cupancy rate of 84.4 per cent, thanks to the allure of holi­

LOCAL NEWS

Thriving hub days and fantastic weather.

The month culminated with an impressive average occupancy rate of 73.9 per cent, surpassing 2019 figures by more than seven percent­ age points.

A key highlight of this surge in tourism is the di­ verse range of international visitors.

The British were at the forefront, comprising 17.2 per cent of the total, closely followed by Norwegians at

Bob Marquess ON November 6, the second edition of the ‘Less Pills, More Shoes’ healthy walks kicked off in La Nucia with enthusiasm.

This great initiative drew participation from 15 individuals of various age groups, all eager to embrace healthier living habits.

The next outing is scheduled for Mon­ day, November 13, starting at 9.30am from the Centre Salut in La Nucia.

These free weekly walks, lasting for an hour, are designed to encourage physical activity among adults and seniors.

The walks are organised by the commu­

11.3 per cent and Belgians at 7.6 per cent.

Other prominent nationali­ ties included the French (4.3 per cent), Dutch (4 per cent), and Germans (3.8 per cent).

Looking ahead to the first half of November (Novem­ ber 1 to 15), hotels are al­ ready reporting a promising 59 per cent of rooms booked.

This positive outlook is ex­ pected to further improve as more last­minute reserva­ tions trickle in.

Less pills nity nurses at the La Nucia Health Centre, in partnership with the Primary Care Nurs­ ing Directorate of the Marina Baixa de­ partment and the La Nucia Town Council.

To participate, all you need are comfort­ able footwear and attire, a water bottle, a piece of fruit, and your health card (SIP).

It’s a fun and easy way to embrace a healthier lifestyle while connecting with neighbours who share your enthusiasm for physical activity.

LOCAL NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

Image: Ayuntamiento de Benidorm

Double Love DOBLE AMOR: The base played a crucial role.

IN a heartwarming event at the ‘Doble Amor’ Double Love Ed­ ucation Centre, the Spanish Antarctic Base showed its love and recognition on the centre’s 50th anniversary.

Captain Mario Muñoz, a native of Benidorm and head of communications for the campaign, delivered a special gift to the centre, a commemorative t­shirt signed and dedicated by all the members of the Base.

Captain Muñoz highlighted the significance of the Double Love students, who were the first to have a ‘private confer­ ence’ with the Spanish Antarctic Base ‘Gabriel de Castilla’.

This base, operated by the Army on Deception Island, plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge.

A part of the Double Love Education Centre had the unique opportunity to connect with the Base, forging a special bond with Captain Muñoz.

The mayor, Toni Perez expressed how fortunate the cen­ tre’s students are to have been part of this incredible experi­ ence, allowing them to virtually journey to Antarctica, thou­ sands of kilometres away.

The mayor also commended the students for their contri­ bution to the penguin sponsorship campaign initiated by the Base, which resulted in over 60,000 sponsored penguins.

9 - 15 November 2023

IN La Villajoyosa, the Local Po­ lice have not only maintained law and order but have also showcased their prowess in in­ ternational competitions.

At the ninth European Jocs de Policies i Bombers in Tor­ revella, two remarkable mem­ bers of the Villajoyosa Local Police emerged victorious.

They are none other than Inga, the canine officer, and police officer Mari Paz Giner Llopis, both exemplifying ex­ cellence in their respective do­ mains.

Inga, the six­year­old Dutch Shepherd, is no ordinary dog.

Trained in the detection of

Doggy champ narcotic substances, Inga claimed first prize in her cate­ gory.

This incredible achievement isn’t an isolated event; Inga is a reigning Champion of Spain in narcotic substance detection, having clinched the title in both 2022 and 2023.

She is a daily visitor to local secondary education insti­ tutes, where she conducts drug prevention activities, es­ pecially among young stu­ dents.

Inga, alongside her handler,

Javea U3A dining out FORTY members of the Javea U3A Dining Out group enjoyed a great evening at the town’s Oasis restaurant for their Novem­ ber meeting.

Lovely setting, delicious food, good service and great company was en­ joyed by all.

Thanks to group leaders Alan Guest and Linda Coughlin for organising yet another successful event.

Their next venture is the End of Year Lunch at Cum­ bre Restaurant in Beni­ tachell next month.

For details of U3A activi­ ties, visit their website www.u3ajavea.com

Jan 28, 1985 Charity record ‘We are the World’ was recorded.

officer Francisco Perez Or­ tigosa, regularly engages in searches and narcotics control operations.

The Villajoyosa Local Police boasts a team of four officers specialising in narcotic sub­ stance detection and opera­

EWN 11

tional procedures.

Police officer Mari Paz Giner Llopis is another hero in the ranks of the Villajoyosa Local Police.

She is set to receive the Creu for Police Merit with Distinc­ tion Blau for her outstanding performance in disc throwing and weightlifting at the Euro­ pean championship.

12 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

Working with the community since 1985 LAST week’s edition of Euro Weekly News was number 2,000 which was a major milestone in the history of the paper which was first published as The Entertainer on July 11 1985.

Throughout this edition, we will be featuring several stories from 35 years ago just to give a taste of what was happening, some items tragic, some nostalgic, some important and some which are just amusing.

We are known as the People’s Pa­ per and above all else, we are com­ mitted to communicate, educate and entertain our much respected readership and provide an outlet for our advertisers, old and new.

Keeping in contact with the com­ munity across all of the areas where the newspaper is issued is really im­ portant and we issue the newspa­ pers 52 weeks in the year regardless of national holidays, economic downturns and of course the pan­ demic. How things have changed in 35 years and one of the most obvi­ ous has been the fact that many of the team now work remotely, something which really gathered momentum because of the lock­ down and the need to keep the pa­ pers running which of course also led to the extension of our website so you can read the papers online.

This event can’t be allowed to pass without mentioning our longest serving team member Linda Hall Gonzalez who has been writing for

• Mary Casnello Look forward to every Thursday!

• The Canary News Superb. Congratulations! An Epic Achievement!

• Edward Timon Magnificent! No small task at all.

Well done all round, really some­ thing to be very proud of.

Celebrating the 2000th edition.

the papers for more than 30 years and whose continued involvement we value greatly.

To celebrate the 2,000th edition, those of us who work out of our Head Office sat together and toasted our achievement with an old fash­ ioned slice of celebratory cake be­ fore adjourning to a local Spanish restaurant where we enjoyed typical first class Spanish hospitality.

We had one incredible surprise when unbeknown to the directors of the company, much valued advertis­ er José of Club del Sol tennis, padel and squash club created a brand new advert for his regular Costa del Sol front page piece which stated; Congratulations on your 2000th is­ sue of Euro Weekly News The success of our business is be­ cause we have been advertising with you for over 20 years, every week.

Navigating forward with Edition 2001 Dear Readers, As we unveil Edition 2001, we, Michel and Steven Euesden, publishers of Euro Weekly News, reflect on our remarkable journey and the essence of our mission, now encapsulated in this significant number.

Over three decades ago, our mission was born: to help non­indigenous individuals seamlessly integrate into Spain’s diverse com­ munities. We aimed to bridge cultural and lin­ guistic gaps, a purpose that still guides us to­ day.

At our core, we’re committed to raising aware­ ness for the needy and vulnerable within our com­ munity. We believe in the power of storytelling to illu­ minate hidden issues, amplifying the invaluable work of local charities, championing noble causes, and sharing narra­ tives of resilience.

In a world often marred by negativity, we remain resolute as a beacon of hope. Amidst the chaos, we firmly believe there’s an abundance of hope, inspiration, and positivity. Euro Weekly News is your sanctuary,

where stories warm your heart, celebrate your community, and rediscover innate goodness.

Our mission transcends information; it seeks to empower you. We equip you with insights to thrive in your chosen homeland, navigate Span­ ish culture, and participate actively in local communities.

As we present Edition 2001, we are pro­ foundly grateful for your trust. Your reader­ ship drives our enduring commitment to ex­ cellence. Our resolve remains unwavering, our mission resolute, and our dedication to serving you, our cherished readers, stronger than ever.

Thank you for being part of the Euro Weekly News family. Together, we will illuminate the path, offer hope, and celebrate the remarkable stories that en­ rich our community, our lives, and our world.

With sincere thanks and a commitment to the future,

Michel and Steven Euesden Publishers Euroweekly News

• Joy Finnell King Congratulations !!!!!!!!

• Linda Miller I love having my EWN through e­ mail.

• Vivien Sutcliffe Euro Weekly Newspaper Thank you. For me the community spirit and information has been in­ spired. I retired to Southern Spain in 2001. Onwards and upwards Team EWN. • Jan Leaver Congratulations! x • Christine Climent Congratulations to you all, here’s to many more years EURO WEEK­ LY NEWS • Mary Kavanagh Kirby Love EWN. Feel something is miss­ ing if I don’t get my copy. It’s a mine of information. Long may it continue. Thanks.

• Irish­Artist Michael Thanks so much for sharing this!

Yes, your weekly newspaper is a great resource for all of us on the coast and long may it continue!

• Chris McGovern It’s a fabulous weekly paper, thank you so much. I’m amazed by the quality and information that is in it.

• Lois Bennett Always pick up a copy & look on­ line • Stephen Tiley Congratulations loved reading it and still catch up online. Great pa­ per.

14 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

Legal rights for used vehicles in Spain: Your essential guide IN previous articles, we dis­ cussed how to handle claims for new cars in Spain. Today, we address a different sce­ nario ­ what to do if you ev­ er encounter a problem with a second­hand vehicle that you have purchased from a

professional or car dealer in Spain.

Warranty for Second­ Hand Cars The Law of Consumers and Users (RD 1/2007) gov­ erns the legal warranty for second­hand vehicles

bought from professionals or car dealers. Typically, sec­ ond­hand cars come with a three­year warranty, but it can be shorter if agreed up­ on in the contract (ever be­ ing able to be less than one year). In the absence of any agreement, the warranty defaults to three years.

If a second­hand vehicle experiences problems with­ in the initial 12 months (or 24 months in the case of a three­year warranty), the vendor is responsible, and the buyer is not obligated to demonstrate the pre­exis­ tence of the defect. Never­ theless, the seller retains the right to contest this pre­ sumption with an expert re­ port.

Purchase Contract: Word­ ing Matters If the purchase agreement specifically references pre­ existing faults or defects, it might limit the possibility of future claims related to these issues. This suggests that the sale price takes into account the acknowledged

problems. Hence, it is vital to carefully examine the contract’s wording concern­ ing pre­existing issues: en­ gine issues, chassis defects, etc.

Options for Malfunctions: Termination, Refund, or Price Reduction In the case of significant defects, the buyer can re­ quest a price reduction.

However, as happens with new cards, both the termi­ nation of the contract and a refund of the money paid are only possible under spe­ cific scenarios:

­ If repairs or replace­ ments are disproportionate. ­ If neither has been exe­ cuted within a reasonable timeframe. ­ If problems persist even after repair or replacement.

Note that these options apply to serious defects, not minor issues.

Fourteen days for a no­ questions­asked change of heart.

When a vehicle is pur­ chased via the internet, by telephone, or through direct sales, the customer is enti­ tled to a 14­day withdrawal

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) - White&Baos - Tel: +34 966 426 185 info@white-baos.com White & Baos 2023 All Rights Reserved.

period without needing to provide a motive. If the sell­ er fails to inform the con­ sumer of this right in writing, the withdrawal period ex­ tends to one year.

Conclusion At White Baos Lawyers, we specialise in consumer law and vehicle­related claims.

If you encounter problems with a second­hand car pur­ chased from a professional seller or car dealer, feel free to get in touch with us. We provide expert legal advice tailored to your specific case.

You may be interested in the following services and articles: Rent with option to buy in Spain. Legal advice. Concept.

Taxation. Advantages. Etc. Who should pay for re­ pairs during a lease con­ tract?.

The guarantors in the rental contracts. Eviction court cases against guaran­ tors in Spain. How to get the money back.

16 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

NEWS

ARE you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of entertainment, glamour, and pure enchantment? Look no further than Benidorm Palace, where dreams come alive, and the night sparkles with endless possibilities!

A Night to Remember Step into a world of opu­ lence and sophistication as you enter the grandeur of Benidorm Palace. Located on the stunning Costa Blanca, our majestic venue has been en­ chanting visitors for over four decades with its unrivalled blend of showmanship and style.

A Dazzling Spectacle Prepare to be amazed by our world­class entertainment that spans the genres of music, dance, comedy, and magic.

Our extravagant shows are renowned for their creativity and innovation, leaving you breathless from start to finish.

From Broadway­style musicals to awe­inspiring acrobatics, our talented cast delivers per­

Credit: Benidorm Palace

Experience extravagance at Benidorm Palace: The ultimate entertainment destination!

Benidorm Palace the home of polished entertainment.

formances that will leave you spellbound.

Culinary Delights Indulge your taste buds with a sumptuous dining ex­ perience as our Fire menu of­ fers a delectable array of inter­ national cuisine, prepared with the finest ingredients, all presented with elegance.

A Night of Romance Looking for the perfect ro­ mantic evening with your part­ ner? Our special ambiance, combined with the magic of our shows, creates an en­ chanting atmosphere for cou­ ples to enjoy. Share an unfor­

gettable evening of love and laughter at Benidorm Palace.

Celebrate with Us From birthdays and anniver­ saries to corporate events and group gatherings, Benidorm Palace is the ideal venue to cel­ ebrate life’s special moments.

Our experienced event plan­ ners will ensure your occasion is nothing short of spectacular, with customisable packages to suit your needs.

Experience Benidorm Palace VIP Style Elevate your experience with our VIP options, which in­ clude premium seating, exclu­

sive access, and personalised service. Treat yourself to the utmost luxury and make memories that will last a life­ time.

Book Your Tickets Today Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the magic at Benidorm Palace. Secure your tickets now and prepare for a night of glamour, entertain­ ment, and pure extravagance.

Join us in celebrating the art of entertainment like never be­ fore!

Benidorm Palace ­ Where Dreams and Entertainment Collide!

Visit our website at www.benidorm­palace.com or call us on +34 965 851 660 / 965 851 661 to book your tick­ ets and learn more about our upcoming shows and events.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates, behind­the­ scenes glimpses, and exclusive offers.

Your unforgettable evening awaits at Benidorm Palace!

NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

FOUR people died after being washed ashore near Formosa beach, in the Torres Vedras district of Lisbon on Friday, November 3.

According to Comman­ der José Sousa Luís, a spokesperson for the Portuguese Navy, the two men and two wom­ en were the crew of a sailboat that capsized in the rough sea. They were allegedly already in car­ diorespiratory arrest when they were washed up.

The Navy source ex­ plained that the Danish­ flagged sailboat had left the Peniche marina with four people on board. It subsequently sank around 1,000 metres off Formosa beach in the Santa Cruz area of Lis­ bon.

A statement released by the National Maritime Authority read: ‘Upon ar­

Credit: GualdimG/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

Boat capsizes in heavy seas

FORMOSA BEACH: In the Torres Vedras district of Lisbon.

rival at the scene, it was found that some wreck­ age, allegedly from the vessel, and four cast­ aways, two male and two female, had washed ashore, all without life jackets and in cardiores­ piratory arrest.

‘Members of the Tor­ res Vedras Volunteer Fire Department immediately began resuscitation ma­ noeuvres’, it added.

Searches were imme­ diately launched for any other missing crew mem­

bers. These were coordi­ nated on site by the Port Captain and local com­ mander of the Peniche Maritime Police.

The Portuguese coast­ line had been under red, orange and yellow weather alerts due to the passage of the front as­ sociated with Storm Cia­ rán, causing waves as big as 14 metres.

Portugal was bracing itself for Storm Domin­ gos, due to arrive in the territory this weekend.

from Year 1985 Linda Hall TWO THOUSAND editions ago, Spain’s entry into Europe was in the news.

On June 12, 1985, Felipe Gonzalez, president of the Spanish government, signed the Treaty of Accession in Madrid’s Palacio Real, accom­ panied by the Foreign minister Fernando Moran and Manuel Marin, junior minister for Rela­ tions with European Commu­ nities.

Fernando Moran (1926­ 2020), an author and diplomat before his 1982­1985 term as Foreign Minister, was responsi­

EWN 17

Spain joins the EU ble for much of the spadework that led to Spain’s entry into the European Economic Com­ munity, which then had 10 members.

On March 29 that year, Moran gave details of his ne­ gotiations in Madrid to a ple­ nary session of the national parliament in Madrid.

“Our history is in Europe and outside Europe, but we shall all be inside Europe,” he told MPs. Spain will put an end to the historic inferiority complex that has caused its isolation and it will definitively recover its course and role in Europe.

A RECENT survey of 1,015 prospective interna­ tional students has revealed that 79 per cent of them choose France for their education, primari­ ly because of its outstanding quality of educa­ tion.

This research, conducted by the European study choice platform, Study.eu, sheds light on the preferences of global students interested in studying in France.

In addition to the quality of education, Paris emerges as the top choice for 71 per cent of re­ spondents, making it the most popular city, fol­ lowed by Bordeaux and Marseille.

Another compelling factor drawing students

“I take for granted every­ body’s European vocation and your favourable support for our negotiating position in the last stage of the negotiations,” Moran concluded.

All MPs from all parties vot­ ed in favour of forging ahead with the plans to join Europe and hours later, Moran and Marin were received by King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia who earlier that day had also received Felipe Gonzalez.

After signing the Accession Treaty on June 12, 1985, Spain officially entered Europe on January 1 the following year.

Top studies to France is the promising career prospects it of­ fers, with 57 per cent of respondents considering it a significant pull factor.

French culture is also a noteworthy attraction, with 33 per cent of respondents expressing their desire to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the EU’s second most populous country.

Notably, a majority of students are eyeing work opportunities during their studies, with 66 per cent expecting to work part­time while pur­ suing their degrees.

18 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

NEWS

Undercover cop in his underwear

from Year 1985

Image: David Fowler / Shutterstock.com

IT’S a story that Minister under unfolds over Edward Heath. nearly three In 1985, a deci­ decades, a tale sion was made of a notable by the Central alumna and the University who renowned Ox­ voted to deny ford University. her an honorary Nearly 30 degree. years after Ox­ This decision ford University came in stark dons rebuffed protest against the idea of be­ her policies, stowing an hon­ MARGARET THATCHER: No honorary degree. which included orary degree up­ substantial cuts on the Iron Lady, Margaret Thatcher, in education funding. after her death a shift in sentiment In doing so, they made her the first emerged from the heart of the academ­ Oxford­educated Prime Minister since ic institution.

World War II to be refused this presti­ As a young Margaret Roberts, she gious honour. walked out of Somerville College’s halls The 1985 decision wasn’t taken light­ in 1947, clutching a second­class hon­ ly. ours degree in chemistry.

Academics gathered and voted, with However, the relationship between 738 against and 319 in favour of confer­ Margaret Thatcher and her former col­ ring the degree, a direct response to the lege underwent a dramatic transforma­ passionate advocacy of students who tion during her tenure as the Education presented a 5,000­signature petition.

Photo: Il Giornale

The Iron Lady A SACKED Italian policeman who became an interna­ tional laughing stock for clocking in to work in his Y­ fronts has won his job back.

And not only will he return to work he has been awarded compensation of €250,000.

The storm over the so­ called ‘furbetti del cartelli­ no’, the allegedly cheating employees of the Munici­ pality of Sanremo, broke out on October 22, 2015 when the Guardia di Finan­ za (Italy’s Finance Police) ar­ rested 43 council employ­ ees, of which, nine were imprisoned and 34 were placed under house arrest.

The suspects, some of whom were caught red­ handed, were clocking in at the office but instead going about other business: shop­ ping, meeting with friends, and even kayaking. Al­ though they faced sen­ tences of up to one year in prison the Court of Appeal decided that too much time had passed between the ar­ rests and conviction and or­ dered their reinstatement with the payment of back wages and compensation.

The last to win his appeal was the man who had be­ come the unwitting star of the operation, policeman Alberto Muraglia, caught by

ALBERTO MURAGLIA: Was caught by camera punching his time card in his underwear.

cameras punching his time card in his underwear.

His reinstatement brings to a close the investigation, which eight years ago caused a media sensation in Italy.

Muraglia has always maintained his innocence of any offence. “I happened to get off duty, arrive home and remember that I had not punched in. To avoid dressing, I went to swipe my badge even in my pyja­ mas,” he told the magis­ trate.

Muraglia can now return to being a policeman, “Be­ yond reparations, the last eight years will never be re­ turned to me,” he said

NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

A FIREFIGHTER died in Portu­ gal on Tuesday, October 31, af­ ter allegedly being stung by an Asian wasp.

José Bessa is suspected to have suffered anaphylactic shock following the insect’s bite while carrying out agricul­ tural work on a farm.

The 63­year­old member of the Castelo de Paiva Volunteer Fire Department is said to have raised the alarm personally at around 3pm.

Emergency services were immediately deployed to the location.

These included the Volun­ teer Firefighters of Castelo de Paiva, a GNR patrol from Castelo de Paiva, the VMER of Feira, and a rescue team.

He was eventually pro­ nounced dead at the scene On arrival, José was report­ edly already in cardiorespirato­ ry arrest, according to a corpo­ rate source of SIC Notícias.

Despite personnel from the Feira Emergency and Resusci­ tation Medical Vehicle (VMER) administering resuscitation manoeuvres on him, José was

Credit: Eduardo Dzophoto/Shutterstock.com

Wasp sting kills firefighter

ASIAN WASP: The firefighter suffered anaphylactic shock.

eventually pronounced dead at the scene. His body was sub­ sequently transported to the Legal Medicine department of the Penafiel Hospital, where it was due to undergo a post­ mortem examination.

Tributes were paid on social media.

Described by his colleagues as ‘a person with a huge heart, very special to all of us’, there was an outpouring of tributes to the firefighter of 32 years on social media.

A message of condolence posted on Facebook by the Volunteer Firefighters of Caste­ lo de Paiva: ‘fulfilled the painful duty of informing of the death of our 2nd Active Firefighter, José Bessa’.

‘We lack the words to de­ scribe the great man, the great friend, the great firefighter who leaves us today. He leaves an immense void in our home, in our lives, in the hearts of ev­ eryone who had the honour of knowing him and sharing sto­ ries and memories with him’, they wrote.

They added, ‘We will be eternally grateful to ‘Bessinha’ for everything he gave to our cause and to our home’.

Feb 19, 1985 EastEnders premiered on the BBC.

EWN 19

20 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

NEWS

Europe’s Cool List The Big Apple from Year 1985

Credit: Visit Saimaa

ON Halloween, National Ge­ ographic Traveller (UK) re­ vealed The Cool List 2024, the editors’ selection of des­ tinations set to make the news over the next 12 months.

The Cool List identifies top places and around the world where tourism spaces benefits communities and the environment as much as the visitors and locals themselves.

The full results can be seen in the December 2023 issue of National Geograph­ ic Traveller (UK), on UK newsstands from Novem­ ber 2.

Pat Riddell, editor of Na­ tional Geographic Traveller (UK), said: “Where it’s culi­ nary excellence, solar eclipses, night trains, new

euroweeklynews.com

COOL DESTINATION: Finland’s largest lake, Saimaa.

national parks, rewilding ini­ tiatives, ancient wonders re­ visited or cultural land­ marks, we’ve curated some of the best travel destina­ tions for the next 12 months.

“The Cool List 2024 also

has a strong focus on the UK and Europe, with almost half the entries offering our readers easy access to some of the world’s most alluring destinations close to home.”

In keeping with our

name, Euro Weekly News has chosen to publish the European list with plenty of tips for cool destinations next year Albanian Alps, Albania Belfast, Northern Ireland Emilia­Romagna, Italy Europe by train Galloway & Southern Ayr­ shire, Scotland Nordland, Norway North Yorkshire, England Pompeii, Italy Saimaa, Finland Tartu, Estonia UEFA Euro 24, Germany Valletta, Malta Wales Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

ON a chilly February 7, 1985, in the heart of the bustling metropolis, New York City’s mayor at the time, Ed Koch, stood before a captivated crowd and declared that the iconic song “New York, New York” was about to become the official an­ them of the Big Apple. This timeless anthem offers a unique perspective, painting New York through the wide­eyed gaze of an outsider, a small­town dreamer with high hopes, who be­ lieves, ‘If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere’. It was com­ posed by the Broadway duo of John Kander and Fred Ebb for Liza Minnelli to perform in the 1977 film ‘New York, New York’, set against the backdrop of the 1940s. But it was the velvet­ voiced Frank Sinatra who lent an immortal quality to the song just three years later, cementing it in the hearts of generations to come. So, as you stroll down the bustling streets of the Big Apple, remember that you’re not just walking on concrete; you’re walking to the beat of ‘New York, New York’, a song that encapsulates the dreams and ambitions of a city that continues to inspire and enchant the world.

Sanctuary forests IN a tranquil corner of east­ ern France, an eco­friendly concept borrowed from neighbouring Germany is taking root.

Cinerary forests, also known as sanctuary forests, have emerged as an en­ chanting alternative to tradi­ tional cemeteries. These nat­ ural settings are becoming increasingly popular as more people choose not only to be cremated but to have their ashes interred beneath the canopy of a majestic tree. This idea, which has been flourishing in Germany

for some years, is now spreading to regions in France. Nancy, an eastern French city, is also embracing this trend by planting trees within a cemetery.

Soon, residents will have the option of finding their fi­ nal resting place surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Chantal Finck, the councillor in charge of public service quality, recognises the grow­ ing demand for sanctuary forests and explains the city’s forward­thinking ap­ proach.

The councillor confirmed:

“We are the first major city in France to take an interest in the cinerary forest.

“This is because it meets a societal and environmental need and we are completely convinced of this.”

Starting in December, the ashes of the city’s residents will be buried free of charge, without the customary flow­ ers, wreaths, or headstones.

This eco­friendly and serene approach to burial is undoubtedly a step towards a more harmonious connec­ tion between life, death, and nature.

NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

THE Svalbard archipelago is a distant European haven that has become (in)famous for some of its more unusual laws.

Located approximately 1,040 kilometres from the North Pole and 800 kilome­ tres from mainland Norway, Svalbard has been under Norwegian sovereignty since

9 - 15 November 2023

Where cats are forbidden

1920, according to a news source.

Svalbard is home to Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost settlement, which boasts some peculiar regulations. Visitors can freely migrate there without

a visa, yet they must comply with several distinctive local laws. Nearly 60 per cent of the island is peppered by glaciers, and the mercury sel­ dom rises above zero. De­ spite this, Longyearbyen is home to a few thousand

€100 on offer

THERE is no question that prices have been rising dramatically across the world and sadly we in Spain have been hit, although per­ haps not as hard as some other coun­ tries.

If you don’t have a great deal of money coming in, have fami­ lies to feed or are alone and don’t want to just cook for your­ self, a little treat occa­ sionally which gets you out and about is worth considering.

We at Euro Weekly News believe it is our role to help readers consider all of their options and also perhaps spread a lit­ tle festive cheer by sponsoring a reader’s survey with a difference.

For all that Franco can be blamed for, he is credited with the concept of creating the famed Menu del Dia as a way of showcas­ ing Spanish regional cooking and in 1965, he passed a law requiring certain restau­

Choose your favourite Menu del Dia and receive €100.

rants, especially those in the newly emerging tourist areas, to offer a reasonably priced lunch.

The concept was tak­ en up across Spain and by the 1970s most towns had at least one or two restaurants of­ fering this three course meal at an economic price.

There are still plenty of cafés, ventas and restaurants offering the Menu del Dia and we want to hear all about your favourite.

What’s more, the person who submits the best recommendation will receive €100 from EWN to spend in that establish­ ment.

Your email to editorial@euroweekly news.com will help others to find the best meal deal and also promote your favourite restaurant to other readers with the best recommendation announced in our De­ cember 7 edition.

people and sits amidst one of the largest untouched wildernesses on the globe, teeming with polar bears, reindeer, and a diverse col­ lection of birds. This is also the reason that cat lovers might be disappointed as

these pets are banned so as to safeguard the various species of birds.

The lack of a maternity ward requires that expectant mothers have to depart for Norway at least one month before they are due to give birth. Those with severe ill­ nesses must relocate to the mainland due to Longyear­

EWN 21

byen’s limited healthcare fa­ cilities.

The island experiences po­ lar night from October to February, and the midnight sun from April to August, making it an ideal spot for witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights, sometimes visible even during daylight in winter.

22 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023 from Year 1985 THE Rainbow Warrior was a Greenpeace ship that was sunk by French intelli­ gence officers in July 1985.

The ship was on a mission to protest French nuclear testing in the South Pacific and was anchored in Auck­ land, New Zealand when the attack occurred. One crew member, Fernando Pereira, was killed in the bombing.

The sinking of the Rain­ bow Warrior triggered an international outcry and strained diplomatic rela­ tions between New Zealand and France. The two French officers respon­ sible for the attack were tried and sentenced to 10

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NEWS

Rainbow Warrior No to wheeled luggage years in prison, but they served only a short time before being transferred to France. The French govern­ ment also formally apolo­ gised and paid compensa­ tion to the victims.

The sinking of the Rain­ bow Warrior had a pro­ found impact on the envi­ ronmental movement.

Greenpeace, far from being deterred by the incident, redoubled its efforts, and the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior remains a symbol of the organisation’s unwa­ vering commitment to en­ vironmental protection.

The original Rainbow Warrior was refloated for

forensic examination, but it was deemed irreparable and scuttled in Matauri Bay, New Zealand in 1987.

Greenpeace acquired a new ship and named it Rainbow Warrior II. Today, Rainbow Warrior III continues to carry on the legacy of the original ship, working tirelessly to advo­ cate for a greener and more peaceful future.

June 1985 The Schengen area began with only five countries.

John Ensor TOURISTS going to one of Eu­ rope’s most popular destina­ tions may fall foul of its new rules as it has announced the end of the road for wheeled luggage. In a move that echoes through the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, the his­ toric city has drawn a line in the sand. As of last month, the clatter of wheeled suitcas­ es will no longer reverberate through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the old town.

This landmark decision was brought in amidst a growing outcry from locals, who com­ plained that the rumble of rolling luggage was an un­ bearable intrusion on their

peaceful existence. Wheeled suitcases, once hailed as a travel revolution, have fallen out of favour in this corner of Croatia. Dubrovnik, known as ‘the Dalmatian Athens’, has taken decisive steps to pre­ serve its tranquillity. While the city council have not im­ posed an outright ban, the ruling does mean that tourists must now carry their luggage or make use of the newly of­ fered porter services provided by hotels.

Additional regulations com­

plementing the suitcase ban include a prohibition on shirt­ less wandering within the old town and climbing onto mon­ uments. These rules form part of a broader initiative to maintain a sense of decorum and ensure the residents’ peace is not disturbed. It ap­ pears that Dubrovnik is at the forefront of a sustainable tourism model, it remains to be seen whether other Euro­ pean destinations adopt the same resident­friendly proto­ col.

Halt in Hamburg Anna Ellis CONSTRUCTION of one of Germany’s tallest buildings, the 64­storey Elbtower skyscraper in Hamburg, has come to an abrupt halt as the developer, Signa, al­ legedly failed to make pay­ ments to its builder, Lupp.

Signa, owned by billion­ aire Austrian businessman Rene Benko and a co­owner of New York’s Chrysler Build­ ing, had been progressing steadily with the project.

According to Matthias Kaufmann, overseeing Lupp’s finances, the con­ struction activities at Elbtow­ er were suspended due to outstanding payments from Signa.

The interruption raises un­ certainty regarding the fu­

ture of the Elbtower, which was estimated to have a val­ ue of €1.3bn upon comple­ tion.

This development is in­ dicative of the challenges facing the property sector in Europe’s largest economy.

For years, the real estate sec­ tor was a significant contrib­ utor to Germany’s economy, accounting for approximate­ ly one­fifth of output and one in 10 jobs.

However, a sharp increase in interest rates and con­ struction costs has disrupted the sector, pushing develop­ ers into insolvency as bank financing becomes scarcer, property deals freeze, and prices decline. Elbtower is situated in Hamburg’s Hafen City district.

24 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023 Image: Shutterstock/ Miha Creative

euroweeklynews.com

CELEBRATING BORNHOLM: A bold step towards zero waste by 2032.

Catherine McGeer BORNHOLM, a remote Danish island, has commit­ ted to eliminating waste by 2032, setting an exam­ ple for sustainable waste management. Challenging Denmark’s waste habits, which rely heavily on in­ cineration, Bornholm’s plan is a daring one.

Denmark’s incinerators, while converting waste in­ to energy, still emit green­ house gases, hindering the country’s climate goals. In contrast, Bornholm cur­ rently recycles about 70 per cent of its waste and relies on incineration for about 25 per cent.

The zero­waste goal aligns with Bornholm’s ambition to be carbon­ neutral in its energy sector by 2025, primarily utilising renewable energy sources. Bornholm’s inno­ vative approach includes the composting of dispos­ able diapers, which are

Zero Waste typically non­biodegrad­ able. By using com­ postable diapers made from plant­based materi­ als, waste is transformed into valuable compost within 10 days, with a low carbon footprint.

Bornholm also harness­ es organic waste, such as pig manure, to produce re­ newable gas for heating and electricity.

Community involve­ ment is a vital aspect of Bornholm’s journey to ze­ ro waste. Locals rent shelves at second­hand shops to sell unwanted items, reducing waste and promoting reuse. Online platforms facilitate the sharing of unused objects, fostering a culture of waste reduction. Chal­ lenges remain, such as the need to ship recycling cat­

egories to mainland Eu­ rope and the complexity of recycling products with multiple materials. How­ ever, Bornholm’s dedica­ tion to education, partner­ ships, and community involvement positions it as a pioneering example of sustainable waste man­ agement, inspiring similar initiatives globally.

Bornholm’s path to zero waste represents a broad­ er movement toward re­ ducing, reusing, and recy­ cling and recognises the moral imperative to steer society toward sustainabil­ ity. This small island’s ef­ forts have the potential to make a significant impact, reducing waste, minimis­ ing environmental harm, and inspiring similar waste­reduction initiatives worldwide.

NEWS

Heavily guarded yet infiltrated A PORTUGUESE man man­ aged to infiltrate the heavily­ guarded One Police Plaza in New York City, and enter the Joint Operations Centre of the NYPD. According to a news source, on October 28, 65­year­old José Luís Soares gained access by getting under the gate of one of the building’s two garage entrances.

The important police facili­ ty is located on Park Row in Civic Centre, Manhattan, near New York City’s City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Citing court documents, the news outlet revealed that although they were guarded by uniformed armed police officers, he sub­ sequently passed through several security checkpoints.

Once inside the 14­storey

NYPD HQ: Should have been one of the safest building in the city.

Credit: Wikipedia/By Francesco Dazzi from Reggio Emilia, Italy, CC BY-SA 2.0

building, he eventually passed through a door that was clearly marked ‘staff on­ ly’ and made his way to a roof on the second floor.

What happened next?

Incredibly, Soares then found himself inside the Joint Operations Centre, on the second floor. This is a room staffed by police offi­ cers who observe the nu­ merous surveillance cameras that are located across the city.

“It’s supposed to be one of

from Year 1985 2,000 EDITIONS ago Live Aid was in the news.

The biggest live concert the world had ever seen was set for Saturday July 13, 1985. Tickets were just £5 with a £20 charity donation. After the Coldstream Guards band opened with the national anthem, at one minute past midday on a hot and sunny Saturday, Status Quo took to the stage.

Guitarist Rick Parfitt who had homes in Al­ haurin el Grande and Marbella and who would, much later, set up a real estate agency in Marbella, said, “I will never forget the feel­ ing as we walked out on to that stage ­ it was just magical.”

Live Aid was the next step after the success of two successful charity singles that had been released. I

the safest buildings in the city. This just shows the in­ competence of some of the people we are hiring. What a breach,” a Manhattan, New York, police officer told the source.

As a result of his actions, Soares was charged with two counts of criminal trespass.

The Portuguese national of­ fered no explanation for his excursion and was ordered to complete an alternative sentencing programme until January 8, 2024.

Live Aid t was organised to try to save the crisis in Ethiopia. Approximately one million Ethiopi­ ans died of malnutrition and images of starv­ ing citizens were broadcast on television.

The two concerts, in the UK and the USA, featured 16 hours of music, they were attend­ ed by 172,000 people, were broadcast to more than 100 countries around the world and more than 1.5 billion people watched.

In all, a total of 60 artists took part in both events.

The Wembley concert finally ended with Bob Geldof on stage and 72,000 people joining in with ‘Do They Know Its Christmas?’. in July.

The original target of Live Aid was to raise £1 million: in the end the amount actually raised was closer to £150 million.

SOCIAL SCENE

euroweeklynews.com Image: Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir / Facebook

MALE VOICE CHOIR: Gearing up for their next masterpiece.

Harmonious tribute Nora Shephard THE Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir (CBMVC) is gearing up for their next musical masterpiece, set to resonate through the halls of the Moraira church during the Remem­ brance Service on Novem­ ber 10, starting at 6.30pm.

This event serves as a poignant tribute, as they continue to honour and remember those who have made profound sacri­ fices in the name of peace.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a part of a talent­ ed ensemble, the CBMVC

warmly extends an invita­ tion to men of all national­ ities who share a passion for singing.

For more information on how to join this remark­ able choir, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mike on +34 645 081 539.

You can also find addi­ tional details on their website at www.costa blancamalevoicechoir. com.

The CBMVC holds re­ hearsals every Tuesday, convening at 5.45pm at Bar Mediterraneo in Teu­ lada.

TWICE a year the generous owners of Benidorm Palace open their doors for a fundraiser in order to help charity Benidorm Dog Hom­ ing and this year has been no exception.

Thanks to the kindness of local performers, businesses and the paying public, the latest event, Save My Life 10 which took place in late Oc­ tober raised an amazing €24,453.14.

That’s not all as a number of companies and individuals donated large amounts of much needed pet food to add to the overall total.

It was clearly a great evening thanks to the dedi­ cation and commitment of organisers Christine Climent and Dona Sandland but without the participation of performers including com­ peres Paul Thacker and Miss Ruby Rox (Mark Simon Ellis) and a host of top class enter­ tainers as well as several ca­ nine chums who stole the hearts of the audience it wouldn’t have been possi­ ble.

Tickets for the event cost just €12 but with a full audi­

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 25

Save My Life torium and plenty of sales of raffle tickets and bids for the auction, the actual amount earned for the charity soon mounted up.

There is never enough money to cope with the

needs of so many needy dogs and those volunteers who generously give up their time to look after and help them always remember that dogs don’t have a voice but humans do!

Visit the Save My Life Facebook page, keep an eye on all the great forthcoming events at Benidorm Palace and look forward to Save My Life 11 which takes place on Sunday April 28 next year.

26 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

Nora Shephard THE annual ‘Fancy Dress Benidorm’ is set to transform the streets of Rincon de Loix on Thursday, November 16.

The tradition of the Fancy Dress Party has been lighting

up the streets of Benidorm for 33 years.

It all began as an idea from local businessman Manuel Ni­ eto and has since grown into possibly the largest costume party in Europe.

Only four times has it been interrupted: twice due to the pandemic and another two times because of inclement weather.

Jesus Carrobles, the council­ lor for Events expressed his ex­ citement for this event, stating that it has become a reference and is expected to draw around 40,000 participants, all decked out in their vibrant cos­ tumes, adding a burst of colour to the city.

He warmly welcomed ev­ eryone to Benidorm, highlight­ ing that the celebration takes place during a low season, pro­ viding a significant boost to at­ tract visitors to the city.

Carrobles also revealed that 51 establishments and over 30 floats have already confirmed their participation in the grand parade and each year, the fes­ tival extends its reach into Fri­ day and Saturday with a host of events and shows organised by leisure establishments.

The councillor also con­ firmed there will be traffic cuts.

The parade starts at 3.00pm.

Back with a bang Anna Ellis NJFM (Not Just Folk Music) is back, and it’s making a tri­ umphant return at Isla Bonita in Javea!

The latest event boasted a full house of eager music en­ thusiasts and a stage filled with incredibly talented musi­ cians.

Hats off to the group lead­ er, Roger Saunders, and his dedicated team of helpers, in­ cluding the versatile Peter Allin.

Together, they curated a line­up of accomplished per­ formers, each showcasing their mastery of diverse in­ struments, from guitars and ukuleles to accordion and sax­

Image: Javea U3A

Painting the town

SOCIAL SCENE

NJFM: Making a triumphant return.

ophone.

The crowd was absolutely thrilled with the entertain­ ment on offer, enthusiastical­ ly joining in on classics like ‘Sweet Caroline’ (yes, even Peter got in on the act), and even hitting the dance floor

George Cunningham PREPARE for a delightful autumn experi­ ence at the Mercat del Convent in Altea, happening on Saturday, November 11.

This vibrant event is packed with activ­ ities designed to connect local and re­ gional producers with consumers, cele­ brating local agriculture, traditions, and the joy of consuming locally sourced, Km0 products.

with gusto!

To quote a famous 70s group, ‘Thank You For the Music’ indeed.

The excitement is already building for the next session, on November 27 at Isla Boni­ ta, Calle Cannes, 1, 03730.

Altea Mercat The Mercat s a lively celebration that stretches from 9.30am to 7.30pm, offer­ ing a wide range of activities.

Enjoy diving into the world of ceramics and watercolours whilst listening to the melodies of a concert performed by the Blue Orchestra, among other attractions.

SOCIAL SCENE

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 27

Advertising Feature

Scandinavian evening at Hereford Albir • Date: November 11th Special Menu: Experience a unique Scan­ dinavian­themed menu cre­ ated by our guest butter bread chef, Anette Strøh Bartholdy, for this special evening.

• Menu Highlights: Classic Danish smørrebrød (three assorted pieces of LUX butter bread) | 15€ ­ Iconic Stjerneskud (shooting star ­ an open fish sandwich) | 20€ ­ Pariser bøf (Paris open beef sandwich) | 16€ ­ Bøf sand­ wich (beef sandwich with brown glace) | 20€ ­ Ribben­ steg sandwich (pork belly sandwich) | 16€ Please note: Butter bread and Shooting Star MUST be pre­ordered because we make everything super fresh! There will be no regular à la carte menu for this event. Art Exhibition ­ Dis­ cover local artist AnneLise Jo­ hannessen vibrant and inspir­ ing art. For the past 22 years, she has called Albir her home.

Her artistic journey began back in 1986, and she has been a consistent presence in the art scene, exhibiting not only in Albir but also in La Bal­ conadas in Altea. Her artwork is a celebration of life, a vivid palette of colors and shapes that mirrors her ever­evolv­ ing inspiration.

• Live Music & Dance ­ Groove to the tunes of Mont­ gómusic Jávea!

Here’s what you can look forward to during the evening: • 17:00 Doors open, kick off the evening with delicious appetisers and cocktails as our kitchen springs to life, helmed by our guest chef, Anette • 20:30 An engaging art talk by Annelise • 21:00 The music sets the mood • 21:30 onwards: Let’s dance the night away, with fabulous cocktails created by our cocktail master and bar­ man Spataru Stefan Aurelian, flowing until midnight!

Upcoming art exhibition.

Groove the night away.

Enjoy different cocktails.

Hereford Meat on Fire.

Join Us - Don’t miss this unique Scandinavian evening. To book your table, call or message us on WhatsApp on +34 604 433 042. Seats are limited, so reserve your spot now! See you there!

Relax in comfort.

Order an Aperol Spritz.

28 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com Anna Ellis T H E Fiddler Pub in Moraira is once again ral­ lying for a wonderful cause, extending its sup­ port to the El Preventoria da Gandia Children’s Home with another chari­ ty event that promises a day of fun and giving.

Mark your calendars for

SOCIAL SCENE

Fiddler fun

the upcoming fundraiser at the Fiddler Pub, located at Cabo San Vincente 2, Moraira 03724 (just before Pepe la Sal in St Jaime).

The event will take place on Sunday, November 26, starting at midday.

This event will feature a lineup of talented local artists who will provide musical entertainment

throughout the day.

But it’s not just about the music; there will also be a variety of fun and games suitable for the en­ tire family.

Everyone is warmly in­ vited to join in the festivi­ ties.

In honour of Lisa, the late landlady of the pub who initiated the charita­

ble efforts, the Fiddler Pub continues to support the children by supplying them with milk and break­ fast.

Tim O’Brien, the dedi­ cated landlord, carries on these fundraising endeav­ ours in loving memory of Lisa, who began this jour­ ney of compassion and generosity.

Christmas chorale

SAVE the date in your diaries!

Saturday, December 9, is a day you won’t want to miss.

Head over to Loreto Church, also affec­ tionately known as the Fishermen’s Church, in Javea Port at 5.00pm.

Why? Because the Montgo Chorale, un­ der the skilful guidance of Aileen Light­ foot, will be treating you to a heartwarm­ ing Christmas concert that promises a delightful blend of both classic and mod­ ern seasonal tunes.

And, as tradition dictates, you can ex­

pect to sing along with your favourite car­ ols too.

Get there a little earlier, at 4.30pm, when the doors swing open, ensuring you get the best seats in the house.

Entrance is free and instead, a retiring collection will be graciously accepted to support Caritas, the church’s charity that does vital work in helping local families in need.

For those eager for more details or en­ quiries, reach out to Sally Merrett via email at montgochorale@gmail.com.

30 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023 THE Northern Lights, also know as Aurora Borealis, are an atmospheric phenomenon that’s widely regarded as the Holy Grail of skywatching.

They are recognisable around the world, yet few of its billions of citizens have actu­ ally been lucky enough to wit­ ness their beauty in person.

Scientists have stated that

euroweeklynews.com

Belgian Skies 2023 will bring the best north­ ern lights sightings to multiple locations than have been seen in years, leaving many stargaz­ ers excitedly anticipating the events. Maldegem, a town in East Flanders, Belgium is the latest place to have caught

sight of this wonder in the sky, as the Northern Lights graced multiple locations in Belgium and the Netherlands on Sun­ day night. These sightings have been shared in photographs on various social media net­ works, with many comment­

ing on how clear and colourful they look. Among these users sharing the photos was the Space weather website, Pool­ licht.be as well as the weather site Noodweer Benelux, as both noted sightings of the northern lights in the provinces of Limburg and Antwerp.

Bright and colourful lights al­ so adorned the skies over the central and southern parts of the Netherlands, with the Swiss alpine regions also being treated to this mysterious and rarely­seen spectacle. The Northern Lights have been ex­ plained to occur when sun­ emitted, electrically­charged particles strike the upper layers of the Earth’s atmosphere at high speed, producing bands of pink and green light.

LOCAL NEWS

Personal print Anna Ellis APPROXIMATELY one­ fifth, or 22 per cent, of in­ dividuals in Germany are aware of their personal ‘carbon footprint’.

It seems the younger demographics are show­ ing more interest in this topic than older genera­ tions, according to an Ip­ sos survey conducted on behalf of the technical in­ spection association TÜV. The survey found those residing in urban areas and individuals with high­ er educational qualifica­ tions, at 27 per cent each, are more likely to know

their carbon footprint compared to the national average.

Among age groups, those between 30 and 39 years of age are the most engaged, with 35 per cent of them concerned about their per­ sonal carbon footprint, while only 13 per cent of people aged 60 and older are similarly engaged.

Surveys have shown that a majority of Ger­ mans believe in taking in­ dividual responsibility for climate change, with 56 per cent expressing this view in a 2021 Euro­ barometer survey.

Longest war

SOME wars last longer than others but one of the longest wars in history was formally declared over on February 5, 1985.

This was the Third Punic War which officially lasted 2,131 years although there wasn’t much fighting after 146BC as the forces of Rome fi­ nally defeated those of Carthage (now part of Tunisia) and the area became the Ro­ man Province of Africa.

The city was destroyed and for many years no­one was al­ lowed to rebuild or resettle but when the Emperor Augustus came to power, he was aware of a plan by Julius Caesar to re­ build Carthage and this was implemented, resulting in a new and prosperous city.

FEATURE

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 31

INTERVIEW

Chat with Panto baddie, Peter Amory John Smith AUDIENCES of a certain age will remember actor Peter Amory from Emmerdale where he played controversial businessman Chris Tate for 14 years.

Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) his first professional job was on the stage in 1984 and he has been a great lover of theatre ever since, although he has a long list of appearances on TV and film.

His big break was to land the role of Chris Tate who was initially quite a popular character, but following a plane crash where he became wheelchair bound, his character became increasingly resentful and became involved in numerous feuds with other characters in the soap, Talking about Emmerdale Peter said “My first contract was for just nine months, but the part kept growing and for most of the time although hard work, it was great fun.

“Working in soaps is really hard work, there’s a constant round of filming, learning lines, going into takes,

“normally without rehearsals and you are not very popular if you fluff your lines.

“Many people think it’s a bit of an easy life if you get a long term contract like I did, but eventually I had to get out just to do something different and rekindle my career on the stage.

“There were no hard feelings on either part and my character could have carried on longer but I just had to call it a day!”

So back to the theatre and very regular work, including pantomime where Peter has carved out something of a reputation as a baddie, but he doesn’t mind the boos as although it’s also hard work often with two performances a day, it’s also great fun especially when the children are really engaged with the show.

Credit: Costa Pantomimes

Peter Amory in his role as panto baddie.

“I do worry about some of the adult audiences however,” Peter explained, “If you get a bunch of drunks in (which does happen sometimes) they can be quite vulgar and we have to try to make them recognise that that’s not fair on the kids.

“The problem is that you can’t really improvise or speak directly to them because everyone depends on cues to ensure the panto moves on at the correct pace, but we generally manage to sort things out.”

Peter visited Ibiza with his partner eight years ago and they liked the laid back life style and the generally fine weather so much that they decided to

settle there and Peter has no problem in flying back to the UK for acting work as it becomes available.

This year however he is looking forward to appearing in Aladdin as the evil Abanza but in what may be a first, a professional pantomime with a predominantly British cast is being performed at the Auditori Teulada Moraira from November 30 to December 15.

“I have worked with Ian Dickens in the UK for many years, appearing on stage in touring productions but now he has set up Costa Pantomimes as he feels sure there is a real market for good old fashioned pantomime on the Costa Blanca.

“I’ll be appearing on stage with Fraser Hines, also a former Emmerdale star although he was also a very popular Dr Who companion.”

Asked if he had any words for those thinking of attending the panto, Peter simply said “Come along and have fun as the cast is great, especially Steve Barclay who is an accomplished Pantomime Dame.”

32 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

DENMARK Royal designer QUEEN Margrethe II of Denmark, with 50 years on the throne, unveils a surprising role as a costume designer for Netflix's ‘Ehrengard: The Art of Seduction’, released in September 2023.

Remarkably, she didn't accept payment for her creative contributions, showcasing her dedication to the craft alongside her royal duties.

Green partnership DENMARK's Ambassador Prytz highlighted the establishment of a Green Strategic Partnership with Vietnam, showcasing Denmark's commitment to support Vietnam's green transition. This partnership, the fifth of its kind globally, aims to facilitate synchronised green development at all levels in Vietnam. Vietnam will participate in the Just Energy Transition Partnership and the adoption of the National Power Development Plan VIII.

NORWAY

euroweeklynews.com

EURO PRESS THE NETHERLANDS

Credit: Twitter

Unusual poll station AFTER the collapse of the Dutch coalition government earlier this year, the Netherlands are hosting elections on November 22, with an unexpected twist. One of the poll stations available will be none other than the iconic Anne Frank House! It will be closed to the public on that day and open to voters from 9am to 7pm.

TikTok craze TIKTOK is at it again. Now, the platform is

GERMANY

The Dutch Treat. making the traditional Dutch ‘crompouce’ into the latest ‘must eat’. A crompouce is a sweet Dutch treat that is a mix between a croissant and a tompouce. One local baker has said that thanks to the recent social media swarm he currently sells more than 400 a day!

FRANCE

EUROPEAN PRESS

IRELAND Potato shortage ACCORDING to the Irish Farmers' Association, this year’s potato harvest has been described as ‘the worst in living memory’. Continuous rainfall and subsequent flooding have left 60 per cent of the potato crop unharvested. The agricultural disaster could cause significant economic strife for the potato industry, affecting farmers and consumers alike.

Lotto alert AN Irish Lotto player in Emyvale, Co. Monaghan, has yet to claim their €1 million prize from the August draw, sparking concern.

With the deadline just two weeks away, the National Lottery is urging ticket holders to come forward. Ticket holders have been urged to recheck their numbers in order to secure the life-altering sum.

PORTUGAL

Christmas tree

Brit extradited

Language battle

Tourists rescued

A 63-FOOT Norway spruce is en route to the US Capitol's West Lawn as the 2023 Christmas tree. It will be adorned with thousands of local ornaments, and light up the Capitol after Thanksgiving in the 53-year tradition of the US Capitol Christmas Tree initiative.

LAST week, a 70-year-old British citizen was extradited to Germany in connection with the alleged murder of an individual who was discovered deceased in a bathtub on January 2 in 1979. The victim's last known whereabouts were on December 30, 1978. It is suspected the victim met his demise as a result of being struck with a bronze pestle.

IN the latest step in a long-running battle over whether to make the French language more inclusive, President Emmanuel Macron has urged its speakers "not to give in to the zeitgeist" by using gender-neutral nouns. His comments this week come as the Senate voted in favour of a proposal to ban so-called inclusive writing from official texts.

FIVE tourists were rescued from the Algar Seco caves, in Lagoa, on Portugal's Algarve, after being trapped by strong waves during the remnants of Storm Domingos. A seriously injured 28-year-old German was rushed to Faro Hospital. Four other Czech nationals suffered minor injuries, with two of them being sent to Portimão hospital for observation.

Norway’s spaceport NORWAY has taken a giant leap in the satellite launch race with the inauguration of the Andoya Spaceport, situated north of the Arctic Circle. Isar Aerospace's ‘Andoya Spaceport’ aims to be Europe's first fully operational orbital launch site. Crown Prince Haakon presided over the ceremony, marking a significant milestone in European space exploration.

ITALY

Legal pot

5 Star flight

THE German government has approved legislation aimed at legalising recreational cannabis by the end of this year, albeit with certain restrictions. The proposed law is currently under review by the German Parliament. If passed, it would grant adults the ability to cultivate their own marihuana plants for personal use within their own private residences or designated registered non-profit social clubs.

AIR FRANCE has now introduced new menus in La Premiere and long-haul Business cabins. Michelinstarred chefs Renaut and Pic create dishes on Paris departures, while Jean-Charles Bredas designs the Business menu for select international stations.

These menus prioritise fresh, local ingredients and French origin for meat, poultry, dairy, and eggs.

Sustainable fish is sourced from Paris departures, and vegetarian options are available.

BELGIUM

FINLAND

Unemployment up THE unemployment rate in Portugal rose to 6.5 per cent in September, according to provisional estimates published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE). That figure is 0.4 percentage points higher than in the corresponding month of 2022. It is also 0.1 per cent points more than it was in August. However, the number of people employed was the: 'highest since records began'.

SWEDEN

Rental taxes

Treble tour

Sled innovations

Record time

THE Italian government plans to increase taxes on short-term rentals by those who rent more than one flat, according to Reuters. The move comes in the wake of criticism of Airbnb and other rental platforms for contributing to a shortage of affordable housing for residents in popular tourist destinations. However, the government has scaled back its initial plans, as earlier drafts included a tax increase even for individual flats.

BELGIUM native and Manchester City football player, Kevin De Bruyne, took the gobsmacking FOUR trophies that his team won last season back to his hometown of Ghent, Belgium last Wednesday. After surprising players by visiting his former club he also attended an event with 700 fans at the Bikloke Music Centre. The footballer said he was “proud to be home”.

IN Rovaniemi's Sled Fair, the spotlight was on the electric sled by Aurora Powertrains Oy, attracting sledding enthusiasts. Despite the interest, concerns over the practicality of long-distance trips without charging stations remain, highlighting the early development stage of electric sleds compared to traditional gasoline snowmobiles.

CROSS-COUNTRY skiing on natural snow has started in record time this winter in Sweden.

Kläppen in Sälen was the first to open just over three weeks ago. Now, Lindvallen in Sälenfjällen has opened, with a total of four kilometres of tracks for free-riding prepared. In Dalarna, the Idre fjäll facility has also opened early.

Earthquake fear FEAR has gripped residents of Pozzuoli, a town near Naples and around the volcanic area known as the Campi Flegrei (from the Greek for burning), since a supervolcano sparked a swarm of earthquakes. There were more than 1,000 earthquakes in September and about 500 smaller ones so far in October. The government has been planning for a possible mass evacuation of tens of thousands of people.

Daring dealers DRUG dealers in Belgium have become so daring that once drugs have been seized by Customs, they are trying to steal them back as they are often impounded for some time before destruction. The government is to be lobbied to make it a requirement that they are destroyed within days of seizure.

Cyber security CELEBRATING its fifth year, the Cyber Security Nordic event commenced in Helsinki, focusing on Europe's cybersecurity. The event featured prominent experts and discussions, with a pivotal panel scheduled to discuss the challenges of countering Europe's escalating cyber threats.

€50,000 prize SWEDISH artist Lap-See Lam is one of five candidates compete to win Finland's biggest art prize, Ars Fennica 2023. With their work currently on display at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, on November 22, one of them will walk away with €50,000. Lam has created a fairy tale for four walls and one floor, about children who are captured by an underwater monster that forces them to satisfy his hunger, with children.

NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

DURING the past few weeks, copious amounts of cocaine has been discov­ ered along the coast of the Dutch North Sea. These discoveries have led to many questions being asked, one of them, are these drugs not only in the sand, but also in the sea?

The North Holland Police stated that this was their “first time seeing anything like this,” and explained that the packages have been found on various re­ cent instances along “the entire width of the coast.”

The cause for concern re­ garding animal welfare has risen, with many worried that the sea creatures may be consuming these sub­ stances.

It is common for smug­ glers to dump drugs into the sea when confronted by the authorities, howev­ er, recent years and mod­ ern technology has seen a

Credit: Wikipedia

Dutch sharks on drugs?

WILDLIFE DANGER: You ok Mr Shark?

new method emerge, where smugglers dump the packages at sea with GPS trackers. Unfortunately, cir­ cumstances cause those packets to be left in the wa­ ters, becoming a danger to the wildlife.

The effects of this drug on sharks has not yet been extensively tested, howev­ er it may make them con­ fused and more aggressive, therefore being more dan­ gerous to people.

Apart from the safety of humans, this would have a

detrimental effect on the shark and any other sea an­ imals, disrupting the natu­ ral environment. It is also quite improbable that un­ derwater rehab centres ex­ ist for these poor crea­ tures!

The North Holland Police have urged anybody who finds these packages to call the emergency services im­ mediately, and to refrain from approaching any sus­ piciously behaving sharks.

Apparently they are not the easiest to drug test.

EWN 33

FINANCE Bargain price AURELIUS GROUP, which has offices in five European coun­ tries, is reportedly negotiating the purchase of the Body Shop from owners, the Brazilian com­ pany Natura & Co. If the deal goes through Aurelius would pay less than the £400 to £500 million (€459.9 to €574.6 mil­ lion) quoted in some media re­ ports, Reuters said.

Tower power VIRGIN MEDIA O2 (VMO2), the Telefonica­Liberty Global joint venture, is selling a 16.67 per cent minority holding in their mobile tower company, Cornerstone (CTIL), to GLIL Infrastructure. The telecoms company, which will re­ ceive approximately £360 million (€413 million), will maintain a 33.3 per cent stake in CTIL.

TSB stars THE TSB bank refunded 94 per cent of customers’ claims for au­ thorised push payment fraud last year, compared with Monzo’s 6 per cent, the Payments System Regulator revealed. Banks should return customers’ losses unless they suspect negligence, with stricter rules planned for next year to balance inconsisten­ cies in refund policies.

Taking a toll SPANISH infrastructure multina­ tional Ferrovial’s income in­ creased to €6.2 billion in the first nine months of the year, 12 per cent up on 2022. Its construction division grew by 8.5 per cent, but motorway concessions were responsible for the great­ est increase of 41.1 per cent, bringing a €700 million gross op­ erating profit.

Cost-cutting ONLINE derivatives trading plat­ form, IG Group, is planning hun­ dreds of redundancies as it reor­ ganises operations with a 10 per cent reduction in its global workforce, the company an­ nounced. By eliminating 300 jobs plus introducing additional measures, the company expects to make annual savings of £50 million (€57.5 million).

euroweeklynews.com • 9 - 15 November 2023

STAT OF WEEK

€20 billion

in profits during 2023’s first nine months for Spanish banks whose shares are quoted on the Bolsa (Stock Exchange), 24 per cent more than during this period last year.

Off the Grey List GIBRALTAR is close to re­ moval from the Grey List.

Countries on the Grey List are those which the Finan­ cial Action Task Force (FATF) considers fail to prevent ille­ gal activities that threaten the integrity of the interna­ tional financial system.

T Raja Kumar, the FATF president, confirmed that Gibraltar had satisfied its ac­ tion plan and, subject to an onsite inspection, would be removed from the Grey List at FATF’s next Plenary ses­ sion in February 2024. An onsite inspection is the final step prior to removal from the list.

The news would be widely welcomed by the

Photo credit: Nigel Feetham X

BUSINESS EXTRA

34

NIGEL FEETHAM: Gibraltar’s Justice, Trade and Industry minister in Paris.

community and was further evidence of the measures that Gibraltar has taken to meet FATF standards, gov­ ernment sources said.

“Everyone in Gibraltar will be delighted by this news and warmly welcome this highly positive out­

VODAFONE is bidding farewell to its Spanish subsidiary after more than a quarter of a century.

The UK­based communications in­ vestment firm Zegona will pay €4.1 bil­ lion in cash assets for Vodafone España, together with up to €900 million in Zeg­ ona preference shares that will be re­ deemable within six years of finalising the deal.

Zegona announced on October 31 that it had entered into ‘committed debt financing of €4.2 billion and a com­ mitted revolving credit facility of €0.5 bil­ lion and an equity placing of up to €600 million’.

Eamonn O’Hare, Zegona’s Chairman

come,” commented Justice, Trade and Industry minister Nigel Feetham, as he ad­ dressed a FATF plenary meeting in Paris on October 27.

“I wish to thank all of those authorities who have worked tirelessly in this pro­

cess and continue to sup­ port us in our work to ad­ dress these action points and remove Gibraltar from the Grey List at the earliest possible opportunity,” the minister said.

“We now look forward to welcoming the inspectors for the onsite visit in the coming months and the subsequent confirmation

by FATF of Gibraltar’s re­ moval from the Grey List in February 2024.

“We have totally com­ mitted to this process and look forward to continuing to engage with the FATF as we further develop our strategies in our fight against economic crime.”

Vodafone España takeover Photo credit: Flickr/Wei-Te Wong

VODAFONE: Spanish subsidiary sold to Zegona Communications.

and chief executive said the company was “very excited about the opportuni­ ty to return to the Spanish telecoms market.”

O’Hare went on to explain that the

“financially attractive” acquisition of Vodafone was the company’s third deal in Spain after successful turnarounds at Telecable and Euskaltel.

“With our clearly defined strategy and proven track record, we are confi­ dent that we can create significant value for shareholders,” he said.

Financial daily Cinco Dias quoted in­ dustry insiders who said that Vodafone, which was formerly so successful, was eventually pushed aside following a se­ ries of bad decisions both by the parent company and its Spanish subsidiary.

Covid answers

Another upgrade Planned sale off

THE government is not obliged to compensate the hospitality industry for losses caused by the Covid restric­ tions.

The Supreme Court reject­ ed appeals by thousands of bar, café and restaurant own­ ers after considering evidence from several of the compa­ nies involved and the lawyers who represent the State (Abo­ gacia del Estado).

Although the Constitutional Tribunal declared that some aspects of the State of Alarm were unconstitutional, these sentences were no basis for claiming compensation from the State, said judge Carlos Lesmes who announced the Supreme Court’s conclusions.

NEXT expects full­year profits of £885 million (€1.01 billion) after turnover rose by 4 per cent between July and late October.

This is £10 million (€11.5 million) more than the company’s previous estimates and was also the fourth time in five months that the retailer, which now owns several high street brands, has up­ graded its forecast.

A warm September discouraged sales of coats and knitwear, but compared with the same period in 2022 these in­ creased by more than 11 per cent from mid­October onwards once tempera­ tures began to fall.

Next’s share price grew by more than 3 per cent on November 1 after the com­ pany announced that it foresaw full­year sales increasing by 3.1 per cent to £4.7 bil­ lion (€5.4 billion) which was 2.6 per cent more than earlier calculations.

NUEVA PESCANOVA owner Abanca has dropped plans to sell the frozen seafood company.

“We have put the process on hold,” the bank announced after negotiations to sell an 80 per cent stake to Canadian company Cooke fell through.

Employees of the company, which is currently negotiating 76 redundancies, welcomed the sale which Nueva Pescanova also re­ garded as ideal.

Friction arose after Cooke com­ missioned an exhaustive audit and cancelled the deal.

Pescanova’s new chief executive Jorge Escudero said the project was so valuable that Abanca was in no hurry to divest itself of the compa­ ny and would renew the search for an industrial partner ‘later on’.

Increased Prisa profits EL PAIS publisher Prisa posted pre­tax profits of €121 million for the first three quarters of 2023.

This was 75 per cent more than the same period last year, with ‘robust growth’ in business, in­ come and margins in line with tar­ gets for 2023 and its 2022­2025 strategic plan, the Spanish multi­ national announced.

Revenue rose to €679 million between January 1 and Septem­ ber 30, a 16 per cent increase compared with last year.

Prisa’s operating margin of 17.9 per cent of revenue ­ six percent­ age points more than by the end of September 2022 ­ continued its ‘positive tendency’, the company said.

Hammers’ deal THE Gold family are selling part of their 25.1 per cent holding in West Ham United.

Vanessa Gold, who became the club’s joint chair on the death of her father, David Gold, has as­ signed Rothschild & Co put out feelers for buyers.

The Golds are the Hammers’ third­largest shareholders after David Sullivan (38.8 per cent) and Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky (27 per cent), who paid between £180 and £200 million (€207 and in €230 million) in 2021.

Sources cited by the Guardian suggested that the Golds would sell up to 10 per cent or possibly more depending on the offer.

UK classics for the US FORTNUM & MASON intend to expand in the US as demand grows for British tea, jam and other groceries.

Fortnum’s chief executive Tom Athron announced plans to open a warehouse in the US so it can sell directly to retail­ ers.

Athron told The Telegraph that approximately 30 per cent of the international customers who visited the Piccadilly store were from America.

“What we want to do in much the same way as we’ve done in the EU is to put some of our own stock on the ground,” he said.

FINANCE

36 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

LONDON - FTSE 100

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page

CLOSING PRICES 6 NOVEMBER

% CHG.

NET VOL

COMPANY

-17,00

-0,84%

855,07K

InterContinental

5.688,0

+4,20

+2,57%

669,91K

Intermediate Capital

1.400,00

2.493,0

-4,0

-0,16%

197,74K

Intertek

3.850,6

Anglo American

2.184,5

+29,0

+1,34%

464,30K

ITV

Antofagasta

1.359,00

+2,00

+0,15%

151,34K

Ashtead Group

4.927,0

+52,0

+1,07%

Associated British Foods

2.139,0

+34,0

AstraZeneca

10.282,0

-80,0

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

CHANGE(P)

3I Group

2.002,48

Abrdn

167,45

Admiral Group

% CHG.

NET VOL

-182,0

-3,10%

141,46K

+16,00

+1,16%

274,90K

+39,0

+1,02%

51,10K

66,50

+1,36

+2,09%

1,02M

J Sainsbury

281,00

+9,20

+3,38%

2,14M

227,26K

Johnson Matthey

1.573,5

+31,5

+2,04%

41,77K

+1,61%

146,93K

Land Securities

613,90

+8,40

+1,39%

575,56K

-0,77%

158,54K

Legal & General

222,90

+0,40

+0,18%

7,97M

Lloyds Banking

42,38

+0,60

+1,44%

30,33M

London Stock Exchange

8.320,0

-40,0

-0,48%

78,68K

494,90

+7,00

+1,44%

517,30K

-4,00

-0,30%

264,30K 632,93K

Auto Trader Group Plc

627,20

+2,20

+0,35%

340,60K

Aviva

405,19

-1,00

-0,25%

2,08M

PRICE(P)

CHANGE(P)

1.14807

0.87093

Units per €

US dollar (USD) ........................................1.0699 Japan yen (JPY)........................................160.02 Switzerland franc (CHF) ...........................0.9635 Denmark kroner (DKK) .............................7.4617 Norway kroner (NOK) ...............................11.860

B&M European Value Retail SA539,80

+7,20

+1,35%

563,68K

Melrose Industries

BAE Systems

1.104,00

-2,00

-0,18%

782,84K

Mondi

1.345,00

Barclays

134,85

+1,64

+1,23%

10,95M

National Grid

1.000,00

0,00

0,00%

NatWest Group

185,70

+3,90

+2,15%

6,29M

Next

7.377,5

+120,0

+1,66%

44,39K

DOW JONES

Ocado

535,00

+25,80

+5,07%

523,84K

CLOSING PRICES 6 NOVEMBER

Persimmon

1.110,2

+37,5

+3,50%

295,10K

COMPANY

PRICE

CHANGE

CHANGE% VOLUME(M)

Phoenix

469,10

+1,40

+0,30%

378,04K

Prudential

889,00

+17,40

+2,00%

1,04M

3M American Express Amgen Apple Boeing Caterpillar Chevron Cisco Coca-Cola Dow Goldman Sachs Home Depot Honeywell IBM Intel J&J JPMorgan McDonald’s Merck&Co Microsoft Nike Procter&Gamble Salesforce Inc The Travelers UnitedHealth Verizon Visa A Walgreens Boots Walmart Walt Disney

92,31 150,85 266,59 177,57 192,01 239,12 148,76 52,75 57,09 48,99 313,76 294,53 186,43 147,01 37,70 150,24 141,42 266,85 102,85 348,32 105,08 151,44 208,11 168,95 536,13 35,90 243,25 21,50 165,52 83,29

+1,75 +4,40 +5,75 +3,60 +2,63 +7,29 +4,78 +0,56 +0,65 +0,78 +6,60 +7,90 +2,44 +1,61 +0,41 +1,55 +2,48 +4,88 0,00 +2,25 +4,20 +1,83 +4,20 -0,33 +4,53 +0,50 +4,67 +0,87 +0,65 +2,22

+1,93% 2,62M +3,00% 3,11M +2,20% 2,47M +2,07% 71,89M +1,39% 4,30M +3,14% 5,70M +3,32% 11,06M +1,07% 17,43M +1,15% 13,08M +1,62% 3,74M +2,15% 2,60M +2,76% 3,60M +1,33% 3,03M +1,11% 3,79M +1,10% 35,26M +1,04% 5,33M +1,78% 9,44M +1,86% 4,11M 0,00% 5,38M +0,65% 24,21M +4,16% 8,06M +1,22% 5,86M +2,06% 4,96M -0,19% 1,28M +0,85% 2,34M +1,41% 24,67M +1,96% 6,27M +4,22% 9,18M +0,39% 5,09M +2,74% 11,48M M - MILLION DOLLARS

Barratt Developments

440,20

+8,00

+1,85%

892,76K

Berkeley

4.242,0

+64,0

+1,53%

18,31K

BHP Group Ltd

2.388,00

-21,00

-0,87%

176,28K

BP

497,45

-1,15

-0,23%

6,58M

British American Tobacco 2.527,0

+15,0

+0,60%

362,87K

British Land Company

326,20

+8,20

+2,58%

498,50K

BT Group

122,11

+4,70

+4,00%

9,63M

Bunzl

2.939,0

-1,0

-0,03%

31,09K

Burberry Group

1.736,0

+13,0

+0,75%

143,34K

Carnival

883,4

+9,8

+1,12%

101,91K

Centrica

155,40

-2,20

-1,40%

17,62M

Coca Cola HBC AG

2.130,0

+26,0

+1,24%

61,67K

Compass

2.072,68

-29,00

-1,38%

302,50K

CRH

4.669,0

+34,0

+0,73%

54,15K

Croda Intl

4.465,0

+24,0

+0,54%

DCC

4.667,0

+5,0

+0,11%

Diageo

3.204,5

+20,0

DS Smith

288,71

EasyJet

Reckitt Benckiser

5.484,0

-62,0

-1,12%

176,05K

Relx

2.848,00

-41,00

-1,42%

469,53K

Rentokil

443,20

+16,60

+3,89%

5,61M

Rightmove

469,10

-4,70

-0,99%

1,21M

Rio Tinto PLC

5.359,0

+5,0

+0,09%

250,37K

Rolls-Royce Holdings

222,74

-0,80

-0,36%

5,17M

Sage

976,20

-15,20

-1,53%

304,74K

Samsung Electronics DRC 1.332,00

+12,00

+0,91%

3,72K

+4,9

+1,28%

325,03K

Schroders

389,0

106,96K

Scottish Mortgage

673,87

+5,00

+0,75%

496,32K

36,40K

Segro

769,00

+20,40

+2,73%

674,88K

+0,63%

324,66K

Severn Trent

2.690,8

+22,0

+0,82%

189,47K

+0,30

+0,10%

295,19K

Shell

2.706,5

-61,5

-2,22%

1,41M

387,00

+10,00

+2,65%

967,71K

Smith & Nephew

991,00

+29,00

+3,02%

1,12M

Experian

2.624,0

+16,0

+0,61%

240,53K

Smiths Group

1.633,50

+9,00

+0,55%

73,35K

Ferguson

12.683,0

-105,0

-0,82%

11,05K

Spirax-Sarco Engineering 8.420,0

+74,0

+0,89%

15,75K

Flutter Entertainment

13.745,0

+400,0

+3,00%

159,03K

SSE

1.698,50

+15,00

+0,89%

436,61K

Fresnillo

551,80

+6,20

+1,14%

107,24K

St. James’s Place

665,00

+4,40

+0,67%

323,55K

Glencore

440,90

+0,55

+0,12%

3,56M

Standard Chartered

620,50

-0,40

-0,06%

1,83M

GSK plc

1.400,00

+3,80

+0,27%

786,55K

Taylor Wimpey

113,88

+1,95

+1,74%

9,74M

Halma

1.887,5

+5,0

+0,27%

518,21K

Tesco

275,90

+1,90

+0,69%

3,16M

Hargreaves Lansdown

744,30

+17,20

+2,37%

341,91K

Tui

445,20

+13,60

+3,15%

364,05K

Hikma Pharma

1.859,00

+23,50

+1,28%

54,15K

Unilever

3.880,5

-21,0

-0,54%

263,31K

HSBC

603,80

+2,50

+0,42%

4,84M

United Utilities

1.088,00

+6,50

+0,60%

211,97K

IAG

149,50

+1,75

+1,19%

6,17M

Vodafone Group PLC

77,88

+0,66

+0,85%

8,37M

Imperial Brands

1.807,00

+19,00

+1,06%

137,38K

Whitbread

3.240,0

-72,0

-2,17%

170,09K

Informa

719,20

-3,20

-0,44%

237,05K

WPP

744,00

+16,20

+2,23%

500,63K

currenciesdirect.com/moraira • Tel: +34 966 265 072 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

NASDAQ CLOSING PRICES 6 NOVEMBER

COMPANY Most Advanced Roku, Inc. Shopify Inc. Palantir Technologies Inc. Affirm Holdings, Inc. Informatica Inc. JFrog Ltd. ADT Inc. Lightspeed Commerce Inc. Gildan Activewear Inc. DoorDash, Inc. Fastly, Inc.

CHANGE NET / %

VOLUME

+30.74% +22.36% +20.44% +19.48% +17.85% +16.56% +16.49% +15.92% +15.75% +15.67% +15.58%

39.924M 42.696M 168.822M 24.616M 1.834M 1.954M 5.956M 1.621M 1.381M 12.31M 6.857M

-42.13% -31.86% -16.97% -16.12% -15.82% -15.76% -13.56% -13.07% -12.82% -12.66% -12.62%

56.717M 10.199M 3.599M 9.859M 4.106M 2.32M 7.183M 7.911M 179,512 1.086M 1.297M

Most Declined Confluent, Inc. Remitly Global, Inc. Inari Medical, Inc. Procore Technologies, Inc. Tenable Holdings, Inc. Regal Rexnord Corporation KBR, Inc. BorgWarner Inc. Markel Group Inc. Belden Inc. Schneider National, Inc.

‘

FINANCE

euroweeklynews.com

BUSINESS EXTRA Shopping early JOHN LEWIS said shoppers were preparing for Christ­ mas earlier this year, with sales of seasonal ranges 10 per cent higher than usual in October. Although total holi­ day spending will rise by 3.4 per cent to £110 billion (€126.17 billion), GlobalDa­ ta’s analysts predicted that British households would spend less and choose cheaper items this year.

Bank puzzle SPAIN’s high street banks ­ Santander, BBVA, Caixa­ Bank, Sabadell, Bankinter and Unicaja ­ are reporting record profits and paying out the highest­ever divi­ dends although Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank and Sabadell have between them lost 250,000 share­ holders in the first nine months of 2023. The excep­ tions are Bankinter and Uni­ caja.

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 37

Slowdown for Aston Martin Game over ASTON MARTIN announced that it will be delivering fewer cars than planned this year.

The company ex­ pects to sell 6,700 DB12 models in­ stead of 7,000 after supply chain and software problems affected production of the sports cars produced at the Gaydon (Warwickshire) works.

Delays in DB12 deliveries were responsible for a £48.4 million (€55.6 million) loss

Aston Martin shares went down by more than 15 per cent immediately af­ ter the November 1 announcement, falling to their lowest level since May. r alk rW Prices had rallied /M C it: C d during the first six months e r to c Pho of this year in the wake of deals with Geely in China ASTON MARTIN: ‘Exceptional demand’ for DB12 model. and the US­bult Lucid, but dropped by more than 50 in the third quarter of this £38 million (€43.7 million) per cent since August. year, compared with the that analysts had predicted.

Despite the third­quarter production delays, Aston Martin said that it can still meet its target of an annual £2 billion (€2.3 billion) in INDITEX founder Amancio Ortega, who per cent stake in Telefonica, the gov­ sales by 2025. is still its majority shareholder, turned ernment would like to see 5 per cent Chief executive Amedeo down a government proposal to invest state ownership of Telefonica without Felisa stressed “exceptional in Telefonica. the State Industrial Holding Company demand” for the DB12 and According to insiders quoted by finan­ (Sepi) having to meet all of the €1 bil­ said that the company cial daily, El Economista, Spain’s incum­ lion cost. would be posting “signifi­ bent government had a disappointing Ortega’s Pontegadea investment cant growth” compared to response from Ortega in its strategy to company recently denied that it was in last year, “driven by an in­ ensure that Telefonica remains Spanish. touch with the government although El crease in volumes as well as With Saudi Arabia’s ST telecommuni­ Economista sources insisted that con­ higher gross margin,” ac­ cations company now possessing a 9.9 tacts had taken place. cording to UK media re­ ports.

Ortega says no to proposal

LONDON­based EY con­ firmed that it will no longer audit the Codere New Top­ co gaming company or its subsidiaries. In an audit dated April 21, EY referred to the “existence of materi­ al uncertainty that the group can continue as a functioning business” after Codere Newtopco acknowl­ edged net losses of €477 million in the 13 months ending in December 2022.

Fashion ASOS online fashion re­ tailer announced that sales would probably fall by 15 per cent over the coming year after report­ ing a £300 million (€344 million) loss last year. As shares dropped to 365p (€4.19) analysts foresaw that ASOS would need to raise new cash, possibly by selling its Topshop brand, as net losses reached £648.5 million (€744.3 million).

euroweeklynews.com

The Tao philosophy LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT I’VE been an advocate of the Tao philos­ ophy for many years. Although I always respected the Christian and other be­ liefs, none ever really sparked any per­ sonal recognition of the whys and wherefores of life. Wandering some­ what blindly through the religious rea­ sons, explanations and different ideas for our manifestation never really left me any more knowledgeable of the true purpose of our existence.

And then, completely out of the blue, I was introduced to the Tao philosophy; a remarkable belief which reveals the order and wisdom of individual life and the way it harmonises with the universe as a whole. Gradually it all became clear.

I know that sounds a bit loopy from Leapy, but it was true. Our soul or spiri­ tual fragment is all a part of the one cre­ ation.

Complicated? Not really. Imagine tak­ ing a bottle or a glass phial and filling it

with sea water. You then seal it and re­ turn it to the sea. Although it is separate it is still a part of the oneness. When it breaks, it once more rejoins the vast ocean it originated from. And that’s it.

When the human body dies it releases the soul back into the creation.

Once you come to terms with this you can set out on any journey that the manifestation you have chosen to exist in is capable of. The whole scheme of things slowly unfolds. Five to eight hun­ dred lifetimes are considered the ‘norm’. Each time it leaves the body the soul or spark moves slowly through the seven levels, which each contain seven levels, until the created ultimately be­ comes the creator.

The whole belief enables you to live either a full and purposeful life, or if you choose, one that appears to construct nothing at all. Many a young soul attains high success, while older souls often pre­ fer to tend the gardens of their accom­ plished employers. To label me a racist is actually ridiculous. I truly believe that for an individual spirit to traverse the levels of creation it needs to experience every­ thing. Murderer, victim, success, failure,

black, white, yellow, dying in violence, or at peace. The Tao philosophy even ex­ plains phobias. If you have a fear of horses it may be that in a past existence you were trampled underfoot by a steed in some conflict or another. Talking of wars, don’t think because of my lack of column comments I’m not deeply in­ volved in views of the horrendous con­ flict between the Israeli community and Hamas.

In modern warfare civilians are always the victims. Forty million died under the policies of Hitler and Western leaders of the Second World War. Tunnelling is al­ so not a new idea.

The Japanese adopted the same tac­ tics in Okinawa, resulting in the deaths of thousands of their tragic ‘human shield’ civilians above ground. It’s the unfortunate nature of these disputes. Of course under Tao beliefs it’s not those that die that are the true victims, they simply revisit the ocean of their creation.

It is the survivors who are truly suffering.

May the cosmos help them all.

Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

FEATURE

from Year 1985

GIBRALTAR GATEWAY

Image: Alvaro German Vilela / Shutterstock.com

38 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

IN a significant historical turn of events, the border be­ tween Gibraltar and Spain, which had been closed for 16 years during the rule of General Francisco Franco, was officially reopened in Border reopened.

February 1985.

The closure of the border was enforced on June 8, 1969, by General Francisco Fran­ co, who held the position of political leader, Caudillo, in Spain.

This decision came shortly after Gibraltarians had over­ whelmingly voted to remain a part of the British Crown.

Franco’s intent was to exert pressure on Gibraltar with the hope of forcing it into submission.

However, his plan ultimately failed.

It wasnt until 1985 that the border would see a com­ plete reopening, a condition set during Spain’s accession to the European Economic Community.

The closure of the border stands out as one of the most transformative events in the history of modern British Gibraltar.It has had a profound and lasting impact on Gibraltar’s relationship with Spain.

This year marks a significant milestone, with 54 years having passed since the border’s initial closure, and 41 years since its partial reopening in 1982.

The memory of this period continues to shape the dy­ namics between Gibraltar and Spain, serving as a testa­ ment to the resilience of the people of Gibraltar in the face of adversity.

Advertising Feature

Don’t let non-resident property taxes be a headache DID you know you can pay your Spanish Non­ Resident Property Taxes online from just €34.95?

Buying a property in Spain is the dream for many, but let’s face it ­ the taxes, even for those who are non­residents, can be a bit of a head­scratcher. If you’re an expat enjoying the Spanish lifestyle, you’ve probably bumped into more than your fair share of Spanish taxes already, and you’re probably paying a fortune for an accountant to submit them for you too.

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gestoría, spending hundreds of euros each year to submit these taxes ­ even though the fees are often much higher than the tax itself!

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In fact, we’ve made it so simple that even if you’ve never submitted a Spanish tax return before, you’ll be able to prepare and send

your Modelo 210 quickly and easily to the au­ thorities with minimal hassle. You can even do it all from the comfort of your own home ­ and, most importantly, without those extor­ tionate accountancy fees.

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SOFAS - CHAIRS - CORNER SUITES - SOFA BEDS - OCCASIONAL PIECES - FIRESIDE CHAIRS - RECLINER CHAIRS - POWER RISER RECLINER CHAIRS

40 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

Advertising Feature

The ‘Marie Antoinette’ one of the most expensive watches in the world…

IF I were to say ‘Watches and Clocks Are Us’ I would not be far wrong, but that doesn’t quite cover all we can do.

We also have extensive experience re­ pairing or restoring pocket watches, which do seem to be enjoying a bit of a revival lately from what we have seen.

Word has it that this renewed liking for pocket watches may be linked to the popularity of the TV series Peaky Blinders. Who knows if this is true, but we have seen an influx of customers wanting us to restore their family heirloom pocket watches for 18th, 21st, Graduations, Wedding celebra­ tions etc.

Back in 2018 in the UK, we ac­ cepted a most challenging job! Our customer’s father had generously passed on to him his own father’s pocket watch ­ a very nice 18 Carat Gold Chronograph. It was a piece to treasure, and our cus­ tomer had been thrilled to re­ ceive it. Except, on his route home, with said pocket watch in his motorbike top box, the top box parted com­ pany with the bike and was crushed by another passing vehicle. Remarkably the watch was not totally destroyed, but was in very poor shape outwardly and inwardly.

Our customer never confessed as to what had happened to his father, but he retained all the parts he could re­ trieve for many years until he found FixingTime and brought it to us. The watch was in pieces, inwardly the list of needs was extensive, but doable. Outwardly the dial was badly damaged and the case was badly dented and mis­ shapen.

I am glad to say we were

able to return the watch to its former glory, and our customer could hardly

believe what we achieved..

Before setting up our watch and clock workshop in Valle del Sol, Ali­ cante we operated our UK business ­ FIXING TIME in Prescot, Lancashire, which was the epicentre of watchmak­ ing in the UK in the 1800s.

Prescot pocket watches were renowned at that time as the finest in the world. FIXING TIME has re­ stored many hundreds of pocket watches over the past 45 years, in the UK and internationally. We have a vast and unrivalled collection of spare parts, which we brought with us when we relocated to Costa Blanca nearly three years ago, and if necessary, we can manufacture parts utilising the ma­ chinery we also transported.

We thrive on repairing all manner of clocks and pocket watches and watch­ es. They do not have to be antique, you just need to love them enough to want them working once again. Mod­ ern quartz watches need regular ser­ vicing just like your car, and its impor­ tant to remove the batteries when they run out of life, otherwise they will leak and damage the inside of the watch.

Our workshop is open most of the time, so if we can help you give us a call, text or email to arrange an appointment. Usually we can come to you if you can’t bring your item to us. All our quotes are free with no obligation. Contact us on 608 013 157 or info@fixingtime.eu, www.fixingtime.eu.

42 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

The Croatian Kiss: Cultural or controversial?

T H E Croatian Foreign Minister, Gordan Grlic Radman, has recently caused some controversy with his gesture of a kiss on the cheek.

On Thursday November 2, during a photoshoot at an EU conference in Berlin, Radman leant to­ wards the German For­ eign Minister, Annalena Baerbrock to shake her hand. In addition to this he offers a kiss on the cheek, which she accept­ ed, if not a little awkward­ ly.

The happenings were caught on camera and quickly went viral online,

Photo by John MACDOUGALL / AFP

PHOTOSHOOT: The ‘kiss attack’.

with the outrage at the in­ cident spreading like wild­ fire. Many feminist groups were quick to criticise the Croatian Foreign Minister with one women’s right activist, Rada Boric slam­

ming his actions as ‘highly inappropriate’.

In many cultures, a kiss on the cheek is a common form of greeting. Monika Jankovic who was born and raised in Croatia told Euro Weekly News that “yes it is very common, if you know someone or if you are being friendly.

Men kiss other men like this, there is nothing sexu­ al in it.” When asked what she thought of the kiss that the German media are calling the ‘kiss at­ tack’, she responded with “I can’t understand why it’s such a big deal, maybe

it’s a cultural thing. Did the ‘victim’ complain?”

Former Croatian Prime Minister, Jadranka Kosor took to the social media platform, X, to express her outrage, writing that “Violent kissing of women is also called violence, is it not?”

Annalena Baerbrock is said to be on first name terms with the Croatian Foreign Minister, who some are now dubbing as her ‘attacker’, and has not yet officially commented on the incident, however sources close to her have been reported to play down the kiss to German tabloids, suggesting that the German Foreign Min­ ister will not be pressing charges.

Gordan Grlic Radman seems to be quite baffled at all the backlash, as he told reporters “I don't know what the problem was… we always greet each other warmly. It is a warm approach to a col­ league.”

NEWS

from Year 1985

Credit: Wikipedia By Paul Hermans - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

BRONZE CANNON: Salvaged from the Atocha.

Our Lady of Atocha 2,000 EDITIONS ago, the Spanish galleon ‘Our Lady of Atocha’ was discovered off the Florida Keys.

At the time of her sinking ­ along with many others from the same fleet ­ during a hurricane on September 6, 1962, the ‘Nuestra Señora de Atocha’ was heavily laden with a cargo of around 40 tons of gold and silver. There was also copper, tobacco, gems, and indigo on board.

The ship went down ap­ proximately 30 leagues (140 km) from Havana, Cuba, with the loss of 260 sailors.

Remarkably, five survived by climbing the mizzen, which remained above the water.

Where was the Atocha sailing from?

She was transporting this valuable treasure to Spain after being loaded at the ports at Cartagena and Porto Bello in New Granada (pre­ sent­day Colombia and Panama, respectively), and Havana.

Named after the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de Atocha in Madrid, the heavily forti­ fied vessel was built in 1620 in the Cuban capital of Ha­ vana, at the request of King Philip IV. The Atocha sailed at the rear of the 28­ship Spanish fleet, serving as the almi­ rante (rear guard) to prevent an attack from the rear by other vessels.

Who found the sunken galleon?

Divers from an American commercial treasure hunting expedition led by the leg­ endary deep­sea explorer Mel Fisher recovered most of the galleon’s wreck on Ju­ ly 20, 1985.

His discovery, estimated to be worth around $400 million, make the Atocha’s one of the most valuable shipwrecks ever found.

Following a lengthy court battle against the State of Florida, Mel Fisher’s Trea­ sure Salvors, Inc was ulti­ mately awarded sole owner­ ship of the rights to the treasure by the US Supreme Court.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

euroweeklynews.com

Winter skin care

AS winter appears to be looming, our skin often bears the brunt of the cold, dry assault. The plummeting temperatures and harsh winds strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, crack­ ing, and sometimes eczema. To combat these effects, a shift in your skin care routine is essential.

Firstly, moisturising be­ comes paramount. Opt for an oil­based moisturiser rather than water­based, as the oil creates a protec­ tive layer on the skin that retains more moisture.

Don’t forget your sun­ screen; winter sun can be just as damaging as sum­ mer rays.

Secondly, avoid hot showers and baths. While tempting, hot water can further dry out your skin.

Instead, use lukewarm wa­ ter and keep your bathing time short.

Thirdly, stay hydrated.

Drinking water isn’t just

SKIN REGIME: In winter maintain, soft, healthy skin.

for the heat of summer.

Your skin needs hydration from the inside out, so keep up your water intake.

Additionally, use a hu­ midifier to manage the dry indoor air, and choose gentle, fragrance­free cleansers to avoid addi­ tional skin irritation.

Lastly, don’t neglect

your hands and lips. These areas are more susceptible to dryness, so apply a nourishing hand cream regularly and keep your lips protected with a balm.

By adapting your skin care regimen to the de­ mands of winter, you can maintain soft, healthy skin all season long.

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 43

By Clinica Britannia

For a brighter, whiter smile NO matter how well you look after your teeth, you will find that over time they will dull or discolour, especially with staining foods and drink.

If you want to get that bright white smile, then tooth whitening may be just what you are looking for. Modern tooth whit­ ening is safe, easy, and ef­ fective at restoring your teeth to their natural gleam, or even more daz­ zling if you like.

It is the most popular, af­ fordable permanent non­ invasive cosmetic dentistry procedure available that can amazingly change the look of your teeth and have a powerful impact on your overall appearance.

The treatment can be performed both in­office

TEETH WHITENING: Safe, easy and effective.

by using a powerful and ef­ fective gel or in the com­ fort of your own home with custom made trays and gel.

With professional treat­ ment you will not suffer any damage or sacrifice the strength of your teeth.

Results can be seen within as little as an hour, and

your teeth can become up to 10 shades lighter than their original colour.

If you want to give your confidence a boost, then contact our Dental Depart­ ment at Clinica Britannia who can give advice on what tooth whitening method would be best suited to you.

Contact us at Clinica Britannia on 965 837 553 / 965 837 851 for more information.

44 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Future sunscreen IN the quest to combat skin ageing and damage, scientists are developing a revolutionary cream in­ spired by the skin’s own protective mechanism­ melanin.

This cream mimics melanin’s ability to neu­ tralise harmful ‘free radi­ cals’ activated by ultravio­ let light from the sun.

These free radicals wreak havoc on the skin’s cellu­ lar structure, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and po­ tentially skin cancer. The innovative ‘super­melanin’ cream is engineered to be

more potent than natural melanin, with a sponge­ like capacity to absorb more free radicals.

It promises to preserve the skin’s collagen matrix, reducing the signs of age­ ing and the risk of cancer­ ous changes after pro­ longed sun exposure.

Additionally, the cream shows promise in healing chemical burns and radia­ tion damage, while also defending against skin ageing from environmen­ tal pollutants like vehicle emissions. Beyond its pro­ tective properties, the

cream may also stimulate a beneficial immune re­ sponse, offering a compre­ hensive shield against a range of skin insults when the body’s own defences are overwhelmed.

Lovely lavender SUPER-MELANIN CREAM: Can absorb more free radicals.

By Clinica Britannia

Lose weight for the festive season I WANT to lose weight be­ fore the Christmas season is upon us, I have failed miser­ ably when trying to do it alone, any suggestions?

There is now a new rev­ olutionary medication available on the market, which when used along­ side diet and exercise, helps to control the blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes and aids with weight loss in obese peo­ ple who do not suffer with the disease.

Importantly, it is ap­ proved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes and known heart disease.

The medicine is adminis­ tered in injection form weekly and works by bind­ ing itself to the digestive hormone found in the pan­ creas, this stimulates the re­ lease of insulin, reducing the amount of sugar re­ leased by the liver. This chemical reaction slows down the food leaving the stomach, leaving the feeling of fullness for longer peri­

ods of time.

Advice from a Nutrition­ ist is also very beneficial, they can personalise a suit­ able diet plan for you, en­ abling you to get the maxi­ mum weight loss results possible.

Contact our specialist doctor at Clinica Britannia for advice on whether this treatment would be a suit­ able option for you.

Appointments Appointments Landline: Landline: 965 965 837 837 553 553 // 965 965 837 837 851 851 •• 24H/365D Emergency Number: (+34) 607 255 755 • Opening Times: Mon - Fri: 9:00am / 5:00pm

Clinica Britannia Calpe Av. Ejercitos Españoles 16 BIS, 1st Floor, Calpe

LAVENDER has been the base for many perfumes, body creams and as a sleep aid in the form of pillow mists and temple roll ons for many years and is now becoming increasingly pop­ ular to include in your diet.

It might appear a slightly strange addition due to its unique floral aroma, but the health benefits may out way the distinct taste.

Some studies suggest that drinking lavender tea can help improve mood disor­ ders, anxiety, depression, and fatigue and can ease di­ gestive issues such as vom­ iting, nausea, intestinal gas, upset stomach, and men­ strual cramps.

You can buy lavender tea bags from most health food shops and with popularity growing some supermar­ kets also stock them too. If you grow your own laven­ der and want to make your own tea there are simple recipes online which in­ volve only boiling water, a tea leaf strainer and the flower part of the lavender.

1985 Calvin Klein’s Obsession was introduced.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

57

48 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

COMMUNITY

COMMENTS

AS people in Europe live longer, there is an ever increasing number of elderly people who have worked for the required number of qualifying years and are entitled to receive a State Pension.

It appears that although British pensioners will see the triple lock benefit increase their pensions above inflation in April of next year, many still receive far less than their Spanish counterparts.

The rules concerning State Pensions are without doubt complicated and this has been proven by the conflicting comments that we have received on our website.

Simply visit https://euroweeklynews.com/2023/11/01/spanishpensioners-get-double-uk-amount/ if you want to see the article which has received almost 85,000 views so far.

“

In reply to Geoffrey Buxton

Definitely a major bone of contention Geoffrey. I am two years behind you and I worked from the age of 17 until I was 72 and my body said enough is enough. It is scandalous that we have a two-tier pension system, why is our old pension not good enough for the new pensioners. We should be on a level playing field, either raise the old one or lower the new one, we are all the same pensioners. Give me a political party that guarantees a one pension system and they will have my vote.

Peter Selston

I live in Spain, worked for 13 years, also 37 years paid in UK, total pension received €1,300 per month before tax.

Michael

I’m 77 years old, and get a lower pension than people retiring today, although I worked longer, why do we have a two-tier pension that has the older people worse off or are they just waiting for us to die.

Geoffrey Buxton

John Ensor, your closing comment of “solely relying on the state” is a tad offensive. I worked and contributed to the system for 50 years. This was at the levels set by government and my expectation was and is that I should receive a pension that enables me to live above the breadline. I’m mid-70s, still working two part time jobs and paying tax on every pound I earn.

Max state pension in Spain is nearing €2,900.

Michael

Looks like Spanish pensioners are better off than Spanish workers then. Lucky to have more than €1,100 per month.

James O’Donnell

Well, isn’t that a surprise?

You do not need much more income to be taxed in the UK so I would be surprised if Spanish pensioners did not enjoy being members of the tax club.

Philip

Are Spanish pensioners taxed? £26,000.00 IS A LARGE SUM. Irish old age pension far less.

Mary Rita Foster

The UK pension is so poor because people in the UK don’t kick off and just accept that all of the main parties don’t care for the UK people.

They only care about their international profile.

Giving foreign aid and gold plating their own pension.

They should be totally ashamed. But, they just don’t care.

David White

That’s rubbish!

I’m a Spanish pensioner and I don’t get anything as much as that. And yes, I am taxed on the pension.

Do you mean the sum ineuros John?

Maria Angeles García

Ivan Baker

Comments should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: euroweeklynews.com Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers.

No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

FEATURE/NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

EWN 49

Advertising Feature

The end of bear hunting?

ON Monday, October 30, key decisions were made by Fin­ land’s Supreme Administra­ tive Court. It found that Riis­ takeskus, the nation’s game authority, granted bear hunt­ ing permits for 2022 without adequate justification, making them unlawful, according to a news source.

The hunting of bears and some other large carnivores is banned in the EU under the Habitats Directive. In Finland, in the reindeer husbandry area, permits have been granted on the basis of dam­ age, while outside the rein­ deer husbandry area, the Finnish Game Centre has granted herd management exceptions for shooting bears.

“Bear hunting has long tra­ ditions in Finland. The fact that our chance to continue this tradition is hampered feels unfair,” said Saara Heikkinen, a resident of Pu­ dasjarvi in North Ostroboth­ nia, who has marked the start of her summer holidays with the bear hunt for the past three years. However, this tra­

Credit: Canon Boy/Shutterstock.com

BROWN BEAR: The population is dwindling.

dition might now be in jeop­ ardy.

Heikkinen and her husband own three plot dogs and a grey Norwegian Elkhound, all trained for bear hunting: “The beginning of the bear hunt is what we and our dogs look forward to all year. It’s about letting the dogs do what they’re bred for.”

With the potential alter­ ation in hunting traditions, the future of these dogs becomes uncertain. She explained that for the dogs’ well­being, an al­ ternative will have to be found. Reportedly, some

Finnish hunters have explored hunting opportunities in neighbouring countries like Estonia, Latvia, and Sweden.

In Sweden, which has a larger bear population of about 2,500, county govern­ ments issue bear hunting per­ mits.

This year, they granted 649 permits for the whole of Swe­ den. Conversely, in Finland, it’s the Game Centre’s respon­ sibility. They issued 180 per­ mits this autumn, a decrease due to the dwindling bear population which currently stands at about 1,925.

50 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

DO YOU HAVE THE MAKINGS OF A MEGA-TYCOON? sages? What kind of quality sleep are they getting?

BREAKING VIEWS Well, each to their own, but I get up when I want except on Mondays when I Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. get rudely awakened by the bin men. Get dressed, cup of tea, then feed the cat and WHAT time do you get up take the dog for a long in the morning? I ask be­ walk. cause I recently read that Personally, that gives me most successful CEOs get an enormous sense of well­ up no later than 6am. Ap­ being. But then I’m neither ple’s Tim Cook gets up at a functioning sociopath nor 4am while JPMorgan’s megalomaniac. Hence the Jamie Dimon (paid probability of becoming as $34.5m last year) rises at hugely successful as Jamie 5am.

Dimon is next to zero.

I always wonder about Hence I have no interest in these chaps in power who losing an hour of my sleep. get up at ungodly hours to Nuff said. start their day, but we Nora Johnson’s 12 criti­ never know how produc­ cally acclaimed psychologi­ tive they really are. cal suspense crime thrillers Whether they take a nap (www.nora­johnson.net) NORA’S LATEST THRILLER. during the day to all available online includ­ recharge (Bill Gates ad­ ing eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), mits to a daily snooze) and what time Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at they retire for the evening? Do they leave Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer their phones on at night to check mes­ charity.

NORA JOHNSON

Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

INTERVIEW

Why Europeans move to Spain Each week, we plan to speak to a European who has made the decision to settle here and as part of the ongoing series, we spoke to 24-year-old Niamh Eades who left the UK as a youngster to move to Alicante.

AS a wide-eyed five-year-old in 2004, Niamh bid farewell to her Derbyshire roots and embarked on a thrilling adventure with her parents to a tiny Spanish village north of Alicante.

“I can remember being really excited about the move because a promise had been made, the promise of a horse. My passion for these majestic creatures had ignited long before, and this move was a dream come true,” she confirmed.

Niamh underwent a transformation, from British school desks to Spanish classrooms, armed with a three-month intensive Spanish course.

These were the foundational steps of a life that would lead Niamh to Alicante University, where she pursued a degree in computer engineering.

Today, she finds herself navigating the data streams of a media company as a data analyst.

It seems Niamh’s childhood dream never waned as she confirms: “I share my world with two horses and two ponies among other rescue animals.”

When asked about any challenges of living in Spain, Niamh confesses, “Being a

Niamh Eades.

horse owner in Spain (legally) is a nightmare, but worth every hurdle.

“And, what makes it all worthwhile is the weather, which is a bonus for animal lovers who spend most of their time outdoors.”

When asked if there was anything about Blighty that Niamh misses, she confirmed: “I miss the London musical theatre scene, but Madrid’s theatre scene has witnessed a remarkable evolution in the past five years.

“Still, the quirkiest discovery I’ve made about Spanish life is the need to eat popcorn while watching musicals.”

KEEPING pets at home with pet­sitters is a great and af­ fordable solution. And usually pets prefer it, to be in a famil­ iar space with familiar smells and routines maintained.

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And in all that time we have only ever raised our prices once. Standard membership is still only £69 per year! Not bad for free pet­sitting in your own home.

If you’re planning a trip in the next few months register now to find pet­sitters in time.

Earlier is better than later.

Whether your trip is short or long, you need to prepare. All pets in particular benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undis­ turbed. Join our pet and house­sitting network, and the

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HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee.

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www.euroweeklynews.com •9 - 15 November 2023

Pet plays vital role A SPANISH couple who cam­ paigned to have their dog as one of their wedding guests succeeded.

A recent story told of one couple’s fight to have their ca­ nine family member share the unique occasion of their wed­ ding. Happily, on Saturday, October 28 in Vitoria, their wish came true as Conchi and Roberto celebrated a historic day with their beloved dog, Mak as ring bearer, wrote a news source.

Mak wasn’t just any guest.

Adorned in a smart tailcoat, he had the significant role of carrying the rings and accom­ panying the couple down the aisle. According to attendees, he behaved great at all times.

Conchi and Roberto’s deci­ sion to have Mak play such an integral part in their wedding was not taken lightly. It in­ volved relentless efforts until finally, they obtained the green light from Vitoria City Council.

A petition on change.org

Choosing the best pony Be prepared at all times OWNING a horse can be a fulfilling experience for both adults and children, offering unique opportunities for bonding and learning. When considering a pony for a child, it’s essential to make an in­ formed choice that ensures the safety and happiness of both the young rider and the animal. Here are some tips to guide you: Seek Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, or local equestrian clubs for pony recommendations. Ex­ perienced horse owners can provide valuable insights into reputable farms and suitable ponies.

Assess Your Child’s Maturi­ ty: Consider your child’s physi­ cal and emotional maturity.

Riding and caring for a pony requires a certain level of re­ sponsibility, strength, and co­ ordination. Ensure your child is ready for the commitment and has the necessary capa­ bilities to handle a pony.

Match the Pony to the Child’s Size: The size of the pony should be appropriate for your child. A smaller pony

Make sure it’s well trained.

is often more manageable and less intimidating for a be­ ginner.

Evaluate Your Budget: While affordability is impor­ tant, don’t compromise on safety and quality. Invest in a pony that is well­trained and has a good temperament.

Opt for an Experienced Pony: A pony with experience in handling young riders can make the learning process smoother. An experienced pony is likely to be more pa­ tient and forgiving.

Communicate with the Pre­ vious Owner: Before finalising your decision, speak with the pony’s previous owner. Un­ derstanding the pony’s histo­ ry, behaviour, and quirks can help you prepare for its ar­ rival.

IN the face of emergencies, pet owners must be vigilant and prepared to ensure the safety and well­being of their canine companions. Whether facing natural disasters, sudden ill­ nesses, or accidents, having a plan in place can be lifesaving.

Here’s how to care for your dog when it really counts.

Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a dog emergency kit that includes at least three days’ worth of food, water, a can opener, a first aid kit with gauze, bandages, antiseptic wipes, medical tape, and a copy of their medical records.

Identify Safe Places: Know in advance where you can take your dog in an emergency.

Keep Your Dog’s Identifica­

tion Up­to­Date: Ensure your dog wears a collar with up­to­ date ID tags. Keep a current photo of your dog and register them in a national database.

Have an Evacuation Plan: Plan escape routes and identify safe areas to which you can evacuate with your dog.

Be Prepared for Injuries or Ill­ ness: Know the signs of com­ mon dog illnesses and injuries.

Let Your Dog Undergo Prop­ er Training: Train your dog in basic obedience to ensure they can follow commands.

Adaptability is crucial, so be ready to modify your plans as needed. By following these tips, you can mitigate risks and ensure your dog remains pro­ tected and comfortable.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS •POLICE/FIRE/ AMBULANCE: 112 24 HOUR PHARMACY FARMACIA ALICANTE - 965 910 220 •CALL LOCAL POLICE CALPE : 965 839 000 MORAIRA : 965 740 946 •24 HOUR VETS MARINA BAIXA VETINARY HOSPITAL L’ALFAS DE PI:966 860 669

Credit: Change .org

PETS Pets prefer it at home with pet-sitters 51

CELEBRATING: The happy couple with Mak.

championed by the couple garnered over 34,000 signa­ tures.

The newlyweds turned heads with their avant­garde fashion choices. The bride stunned in a long fuchsia and silver­grey dress with an im­ pressive train. The groom, not to be outdone, donned a black suit with silver sequin embellishments, chains on

the lapel, and a fuchsia shirt that mirrored his bride’s dress colour.

In a world where traditions evolve, this Vitoria wedding certainly set a precedent.

With Mak'’s role shining a spotlight on the possibilities for pets in ceremonies, it’s a significant step towards more inclusive celebrations that tru­ ly involve all family members.

52 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

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AIR CONDITIONING

INSURANCE

AIR CONDITIONING

PIPE CLEANING

SERVICES

SERVICES

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PLUMBING

REMOVALS & STORAGE

SOLAR ENERGY

9 - 15 November 2023

POOL SERVICES

EWN 53

54 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

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REMOVALS & STORAGE

TV & SATELLITE

REMOVALS & STORAGE

SERVICES

CLASSIFIEDS APP REPAIRS

CARS FOR SALE

WASHING MACHINE BROKEN? Call Bluesky Repairs for ALL your domestic appliance repairs. 626 430 671 (WhatsApp) (304680)

ARCHITECTS

56

THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA This association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THIS POPULAR ASSOCIATION, CALL the Secretary on 966 495 228. (295990)

ELECTRICIAN MB ELECTRICS. Approved electrician. Any electrical repair. Iberdrola paperwork. Affordable prices.

Miquel 655 282 175 www.mbelectrics.es (302561)

BUGGY TOURS

CHARITY

BUSINESS FOR SALE FOR SALE: ENGLISH Mini Market on large urbanization.

No competition. Same owners for 17 years. Sale due to retirement. Opening hours 9.00am to 5.00pm. Tel: 966 455 491. (303647)

BUY & SELL PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662) I BUY RECORDS 50s to the 90s. Best prices for good records. Tel: 622 750 117 / 962 851 809 (304500)

CARE HOME PRIVATE CARE HOME Full Board and Care. Also, Dementia care. British Owned near Alicante. Luxurious Villa. €1,200 per month. Call 747 438 225 (304618)

If you can read it, so can your clients.

Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

BEDDING

EL CAMPELLO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY – Life and Family Sunday Service at 11 a.m. Bilingual (English and Spanish) at San Bartolome, 35 (Bajo No. 6), El Campello.For more information visit www. elcampellochristiancommuni ty.org, email campellocc@ gmail.com or call Juan Zúñiga – 686203183 (Spanish) or Jim Eaton - 680594134 (English).

(233602) THE SALVATION ARMY English Speaking Church of Denia Worship Service. Sunday 10.30am followed by a time of Fellowship. Everyone is welcome. Come as you are! For more information: Dieter Zimmerer +34 698 609 658 or Barbara Zimmerer +34 652 319 810 Email dieterzimmer er@hotmail.com, www.cen trosaron.com (10008) www.helpbenidorm.org and on Facebook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED, particularly if you speak Spanish, and have a car (although this is not essential). Tel President 607 387 040. We are an English-speaking charity that assists residents and tourists of all nationalities in times of crisis. We meet every Thursday at 11am in Jose Llorca Social Centre C. Goya s/n.

Benidorm. We loan out mobility and medical equipment including oxygen concentrators on a short-term basis.

(288658)

GEN. MAINTENANCE ALL METAL WORK AND MOBILE WELDING. +44 7787 585 714 (302963)

GOLD WANTED

HEALTH & BEAUTY CARING and affordable counselling. Appointments online or in person. Tel: 634 354 8 9 2 / w w w. fe e l g o o d c s . c o m (302968)

WIGS WWW.WIGS-R-US.ES Iindoor market, Rincon De Loix Benidorm. Monday to Friday 10 -4pm Sat 10 – 3pm scrunchies, ponytails, toppers, fascinators, headwear etc. Private appts after 3 pm 681 049 502 (302420)

If you can read it, so can your clients.

Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

CAMPING

9 - 15 November 2023 • euroweeklynews.com HEARING AIDS PHONAK & SIGNIA from Hear Maika. English speaking professional established 23 years in Spain. 658 446 384.

(302960)

HOUSESHARE LADY Looking for someone to share my house with me in Lliber. House comprises of lounge, dining room, kitchen, store room, outside shower and toilet. Large garden, BBQ and secure parking. Upstairs 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, A/C. €300 PCM plus 50% towards the electricity bill. Available from 1st D e c e m b e r. 6 2 0 7 6 7 9 6 4.

(303653)

INSURANCE FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UP TO A €1,000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATSAPP TOO) OR VISIT www.sosinsuran ceinspain.com or email tracey@sosinsurancein spain.com (304148) B E N E F I C I A L INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes.

Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@bene ficialinsuranceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com for online quote. (304147) MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now!

(200726) STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbey gateinsure.com

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ALBIR, ALTEA, MORAIRA, 24 HOUR EMERGENCY. 686 513 510 (294632)

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Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (302810) RELAX CENTRE in BENIDORM - Excellent atmosphere. Expert Masseuses.

24/7 Outcalls - Tel: 603 324 564 (304269) NATURIST male gives relaxing massage. Half price 1st time offer €25. For men and women. Private premises in Jávea, WhatsApp Rob on 613 831 380 (304692) DELIGHTFUL, RELAXING, LOVELY TANTRA MASSAGE with Teya in a beautiful studio in Denia centre. Whatsapp 34 692450679. Yllera2017@ gmail.com (303648)

AUTO BASTIAN mobile mechanic. Tel 608 860 725.

(304177) WE are currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

NURSING

LOTUS massage in Denia.

Lovely Tantra massage in beautiful location in city centre.

Whatsapp + 4915255415183. bodyand soulmassage77@gmail.com.

(303641) TANTRA Massage, Calpe Centre. Professional, sensitive, authentic Tantra massages.

Beautiful studio. WhatsApp: +34 667 018 502 (304306)

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OTHERS VIAGRA / KAMAGRA / CIALIS. BEST PRICES. FREE DISCREET DELIVERY. ALL AREAS COVERED. TEL: PETER 644 139 274 (303521) EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mailorder. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

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MISCELLANEOUS GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693

MOTORBIKES PETER ZWAAN MOTORBIKES, A+ Occasions Showroom, Harley Davidson Street Rod, 1200 cc, yr. 2005, 24.000 kms, Lowered price Euro 9.450,= CostaBlancaMotor bikes.com

PAINTERS/DECORATORS DECORATORS W.D. GILMOUR. Painter & Decorator. Established 35 years in Moraira. ESTIMATES FREE. Call William on 609 691 776 or 966 490 602 (303340)

PETS NEED YOUR PETS TAKEN CARE OF? Not kennels, just a friendly home. Large fenced area. 699 790 080 Altea (1296233) BEAUTIFUL & Healthy BICHON FRISE puppy available from responsible breeder. Contact 653 757 768 (304679)

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PET TRANSPORT PETS BACK HOME Family pet transporters Spain/UK. Travel with your pets for free.

All air conditioned vehicles (no vans) www.petsbackhome. co.uk Removals also arranged in other vehicles Tel: UK (0044) 01256 244657 (302827)

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www.costalessexpress.co.uk Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Tel: UK (0044) 01256 244657 (302827)

ROLLER SHUTTERS ROLLER SHUTTER REPAIRS, awnings, motors, mosquito blinds. Calpe + 50 kms. 659 464 992 www.toldosalchemy. com (1296178)

SITUATIONS VACANT

RETIRED couple looking for long term rental in La Marina Baixa - prefer two beds. Needed urgently - call Janice on 0044 7736 251 800 (279523)

BLUE SQUARE REAL ESTATE is currently searching for Sales Executives to work in the Denia / Oliva area. A training package is provided and excellent incentives. Multilingual candidates, Spanish, French, Dutch and German are sought after. Please email hr@blue-square.com your CV (304549)

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MCIOB, CAAT – for buyer’s survey & defects advice. Tel: 653 733 066 / 962 807 247 www.costablancasurveyors. com (294251)

PROPERTY WANTED

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Call/Whatsapp 636 100 873 (304666) COSTA LESS EXPRESS, small removals and deliveries.

Spain/UK budget prices. Urgent jobs undertaken

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9 - 15 November 2023 BROKEN or unwanted gold jewellery, watches or coins. IMMEDIATE Cash Payment. Call Peter 617 550 016 (303567)

EWN CONTACT

EWN 57

58 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

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MOTORING

Korando - a worthy SUV contender ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack SSANGYONG made its name, as all such car makers do, with bargain price vehi­ cles, but it has a long history that goes back to the mid­1950s in its native Korea.

The range starts with the Tivoli hatchback, there’s the Korando and Rexton SUVs, plus the Musso pick­up.

Prices for the range start from €23,352/£20,245 for the Tivoli, the Korando SUV starts from a modest, by to­ day’s standards, €25,596/ £22,190 and comes very well equipped. Cruise con­ trol, auto lights and wipers, powered folding and heat­ ed door mirrors, Bluetooth, air­con and a plethora of safety kit.

You could be forgiven for thinking that it’s an SUV from a mainstream Euro­

KORANDO: A genuinely good entry into the SUV arena.

pean manufacturer. It has a somewhat old school pre­ mium look and although a little ‘heavy’ on the rear styling is obviously no auto­ motive bargain basement in the quality department.

There’s also an EV version of the Korando too with a range of 211 miles. In top­ line Ultimate trim, the Ko­ rando tested here (1.5­litre petrol automatic) is €35,227/£30,540 and the equipment list climbs dra­ matically with every possi­ ble kind of toy and gadget you’ll ever need.

This in­ cludes a re­ mote op­ erated power tailgate, a ninbe­ i n c h touch­ screen, privacy glass, navigation, Bluetooth with Apple Car Play and An­ droid Auto, leather uphol­ stery, eight­way power­ad­ justable front seats, heated seats and a steering wheel and more besides.

Power comes from either 1.5­litre turbocharged petrol or 1.6­litre tur­ bocharged diesel engine, two­wheel­drive and six­ speed manual or automatic gears. On the road, my 1.5­ litre petrol proved a refined drive with smooth changes from the auto box.

Performance isn’t earth­ shattering in that a smallish engine pulling a fairly hefty SUV is not a recipe for the SUV Grand Prix. Hence 60

mph takes a leisurely 12 seconds and the maximum speed is 117mph. The ma­ jority of the time the Koran­ do doesn’t feel slow or un­ derpowered, long hills apart when your right foot re­ solves the problem albeit with some audible protest.

Inside a modern, nicely laid out dash is dominated by a usefully large touch­ screen and (hurrah!) but­ tons. Generous seat adjust­ ment and space ensures the occupants are well catered for and it’s a rather nice place to be with a premium feel.

There are downsides such as thinly spread dealerships, potentially larger than aver­ age depreciation and euro rivals that offer more power and a better economy. The Korando is still a genuinely good entry into the SUV arena and offers tremen­ dous value for money, es­ pecially lower down the range.

It deserves a much wider audience.

MOTORING

euroweeklynews.com

9 - 15 November 2023

Electric car meets electric town A FEW years ago, a new car make, the CUPRA started to appear on the roads of Spain and it is a subsidiary of the giant Spanish manufacturer SEAT. Nestled on the border between Spain and France in the Pyrenees is the town of Tavascan and the latest all electric CUPRA not only bears that name, but was re­ cently photographed in and around the town which houses one of the most unconventional hy­ droelectric plants in the country.

Located 500 metres deep inside the mountain and with one of the most important waterfalls in Europe, it completely changed life in the munic­ ipality.

According to the manu­ facturers, this is a goal shared by CUPRA as the Tavascan is its first fully electric coupe SUV and CUPRA want to reinvent

ALL ELECTRIC CUPRA: The Tavascan underground in Tavascan.

electrification and demonstrate that electric cars can deliver high pow­

1985 The Ford Escort was the best-selling car in the UK.

ered, sporty performance.

The design team was in­ spired by the purity of na­ ture in the surrounding area and spokesperson Francesca Sangalli ex­ plained “We wanted to give the model real hon­ esty, with authentic mate­ rials, colours, textures and graphic elements that

give it a sophistication in tune with the natural Much of Tavascan’s nat­ ural resources, such as its more than 50 lakes, are oriented towards the pro­ duction of green energy which commitment to electrification and sus­ tainability it shares with CUPRA.

EWN 59

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SPORT

IT took Novak Djokovic just one hour and 38 minutes to overcome Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov in the final of the Paris Masters on Sunday, November 5.

Sunday’s effortless 6­4 6­3 victory over his unseeded op­ ponent was the 36­year­old’s 40th Masters win and the 97th title of his glittering ten­ nis career.

One week before the ATP Tour Finals in Turin, the leg­ endary Serbian star’s perfor­ mance surely send an omi­ nous warning to the rest of the field ahead of the season’s big finale.

Despite a break of almost

Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock.com

Djokovic lands 40th Verstappen storms to victory Masters title

NOVAK DJOKOVIC: Played in the Paris Masters final.

two months, Djokovic showed incredible form in his 58th Masters final. He must surely arrive in the Italian city as favourite to retain the icon­ ic trophy that he lifted last year for the sixth time.

After inflicting defeat on the 32­year­old former world number three, in the post­ match interview, Djokovic said: “It’s incredible to be able to win it after quite challeng­ ing circumstances this week.

“I basically came back from the brink of losing three

matches in a row so I’m very proud of this one considering what I’ve been through this week,” the Serb enthused.

Should he be victorious in Turin, then Djokovic will end the season as the number one tennis player in the world for a record­extending eighth time.

After Italy, Djokovic will head to Malaga in Andalucia, where he will represent Ser­ bia in the finals of the Davis Cup which is being played on the Costa del Sol.

RED BULL driver Max Verstappen was in a class of his own as he stormed to victory in the Brazilian Gran Prix in Sao Paolo on Sun­ day, November 5.

In the process, the Dutch world champi­ on extended his own record for the most wins in an F1 season, now taking the che­ quered flag an incredible 17 times in the current campaign.

A safety car was deployed after Mag­ nussen and Albon came together at the start of the race. After the restart, apart from a brief period of pressure from Lando Norris until Lap 8, Verstappen was always going to be the winner at Interlagos.

Equally, the British McLaren driver claimed an easy and untroubled second place. Fernando Alonso made amends for some poor results in recent races by taking the final podium spot, the 106th of his stun­ ning career.

The Spanish former world champion looked like finishing third but he suddenly found himself locked in a battle with Red Bull’s Sergio Perez in the closing laps. Alon­ so’s Aston Martin eventually crossed the finishing line just 0.053s ahead of the Mexi­ can.

Lance Stroll brought the other Aston Martin home in an excellent fifth position, followed by Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari and

Credit: Ev. Safronov/Shutterstock.com

60 EWN 9 - 15 November 2023

Max Verstappen in a class of his own.

Pierre Gasly’s Alpine in seventh.

Britain’s Lewis Hamilton ended a miser­ able weekend for Mercedes by finishing eighth. His teammate George Russell had to retire due to the car’s power­unit overheat­ ing.

Japan’s Yuki Tsunoda completed another fine day’s racing by clinching ninth in for Scuderia AlphaTauri, with Esteban Ocon rounding out the top 10 in the other Alpine.

In a bizarre moment, after lining up alongside Verstappen at the front of the grid, Ferrari’s Charles LeClerc spun off the track during the formation lap. The French driver later blamed his withdrawal on a hy­ draulic failure.