Costa de Almeria 27 Feb - 5 Mar 2025 Issue 2069

Andalucia Day 2025

Aims

Celebrating the spirit of Andalucia on Friday February 28

DIA DE ANDALU-

CIA, celebrated on Friday February 28, marks the anniversary of the 1980 referendum in which the people of Andalucia voted for autonomy, establishing the region as an autonomous community within Spain. The day is a symbol of Andalucian identity, pride, and cultural heritage, commemorating the region’s unique history, traditions, and contributions to Spain.

From its Moorish past to its influence on Spanish music, cuisine, and literature, Andalucia has played a defining role in shaping the nation’s identity. Public buildings display the green and white Andalucian flag, official ceremonies take place in many towns, and cultural activities highlight the richness of flamenco, traditional crafts, and gastronomy. It is a day for community celebrations, bringing people together through food, music, and festivity.

Soak up the atmosphere - a celebration not to be missed.

THE Vithas Group, a leading Spanish healthcare company, has proposed building a new hospital in Vera. Vithas suggests a public-private partnership with the town council to develop the facility. Discussions are ongoing, highlighting Vera’s increasing appeal for investment in essential services. Pedro Rico, Vithas Group General Manager, expressed to mayor of Vera, Alfonso Garcia Ramos, “we can make a significant difference in the health and well-being of the citizens of Vera.”

pants competing to prepare classic regional dishes, with migas (fried breadcrumbs with meat and peppers) and paella among the highlights. Local markets and food stalls will serve tapas, montaditos (small sandwiches), and rebujito (a traditional Andalucian sherry-based drink).

temporary artists will add a modern twist, ensuring there is something for all to enjoy.

For families, children’s activities such as craft workshops, games, and interactive performances will ensure younger participants can also enjoy the celebrations.

Across towns in our area, a variety of events will take place, offering something for everyone. Traditional food competitions will see partici-

Music will play a central role in the celebrations, with live performances bringing festive energy to town squares. Traditional dance exhibitions will showcase Andalucia’s deep-rooted cultural traditions, with performances of flamenco and regional folk dances. Local bands and con-

Community parades and flag-raising ceremonies will reinforce the sense of local pride, with speeches and awards honouring contributions to the community. Many local businesses, including restaurants, bars, and artisan markets, will take part, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

With an exciting programme of events, Andalucia Day 2025 is set to be a day of joy, tradition, and togetherness. Whether you are enjoying a plate of local cuisine, taking in the music and dancing, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this is a celebration not to be missed.

Costa de Almeria • Issue No. 2069 • 27

Teresa Heffernan

THE town hall of Huercal-Overa has completed the reconstruction of Parque El Saltador (The Jumper Park), which was destroyed by an act of vandalism in June 2024.

The park, which was first inaugurated in late 2023, was intentionally set fire to destroying play equipment and the special rubber flooring.

Mayor Domingo Fernandez, accompanied by several councillors from the governing team, visited the park following its refurbishment.

Mayor Fernandez expressed his satisfaction with the park’s reopening and deeply regretted the vandalism that led to its destruction.

He stated, “It is a great joy to see the children of this area once again enjoying this space, which is for them and their families to enjoy.”

He also highlighted the financial impact of the incident, noting that

Jump back

more than €48,000 was invested in the park’s initial construction, and a similar amount was required for its reconstruction.

“This money could have been allocated to other needs in Huercal-Overa if we had not suffered this act of vandalism,” he added. Residents were visibly pleased and proud of the restoration.

Despite the setback, the town hall reaffirmed its commitment to the residents by reconstructing the park with new, high-quality play elements.

The park now spans more than 670 square metres and features picnic tables and benches, play equipment on rubber flooring, and solar-powered streetlights.

Pawn-tastic fun

THE community of Garrucha celebrated the inauguration of a new local landmark this weekend, El parque de la gamba roja (The red prawn playground). This innovative children’s play area was officially opened in a festive ceremony attended by local authorities, including representatives from the town hall of Garrucha, as well as residents and community leaders.

The park has been designed with the needs of children in mind, providing a safe, stimulating, and creative environment where play is transformed into learning. Its theme, inspired by the iconic red prawn - a symbol of the region’s heritage - is evident in the park’s creative installations. Children are invited to explore, discover and develop motor skills while enga-

ging in outdoor activities that foster both fun and educational opportunities.

This project, largely funded by municipal resources and enhanced by community collaboration, was developed in response to a growing demand for dedicated spaces for child development. By offering a secure recreational area, the park also serves as a platform for social integration and cultural enrichment within the community.

El parque de la gamba roja is now set to become a central meeting point, highlighting Garrucha’s commitment to the well-being and future of its youngest citizens.

This exciting new facility is expected to inspire community pride and support sustainable local development.

Children can now enjoy this space again.

Credit: FB: Huercal-Overa Townhall.

The park has been designed with children in mind.

Spanish hotel ID rules Ibuprofen recall

Expert tips to prevent identity theft

BRUNO PEREZ JUNCA - a top cybersecurity expert and judicial IT specialist - says it’s time to turn the tables on opportunistic crooks. Appearing on TV3’s Tot es mou, Perez Junca dropped the bombshell: handing over your original DNI at check-in is a risky business. Instead, keep the real deal under wraps and supply a photocopy, whether digital or old-fashioned paper. There is no need for them to be handling and keeping your original documents.

Perez Junca explains that black-andwhite copies are obviously different from the original, which could make them harder to exploit. But don’t stop there - he also re commends pixelating or erasing any details not strictly needed by the hotel. That might include issue and expiry dates, your signature, and even that cringe-worthy photo.

By blotting out the fluff and leaving only your name and address, you’ll be handing over the bare minimum of information. It’s a quick and simple ‘hack’ that stops criminals dead in their tracks. No bank accounts opened in your name. No sneaky loans. No world tour on your dime!

For even more peace of mind, the cybersecurity guru advises adding a watermark to your copy. If you’re sending it by email or printing it off, simply la-

bel it with something like ‘For Hotel Check-In Only’. It might sound like extra faff, but if your details ever turn up somewhere dodgy, you’ll have a clearer path to prove that the document was only meant for that hotel booking - and nothing else.

Now you know the (hotel) drill - when you’re asked for ID, don’t get scammed. Give them a copy and keep your holiday from turning into a how-liday! Safe travels, Euro Weekly News readers!

A MAJOR Ibuprofen brand has been recalled from pharmacies after Spanish health authorities flagged a quality issue. Consumers in Spain are advised to check their medicine cabinets as this common painkiller may not work as intended.

The Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) has issued a recall for Ibuprofeno Pensavital 400 mg due to ‘out-of-specification results’ in its dissolution test - meaning the tablets may not dissolve properly, affecting their effectiveness, and potentially their side-effects.

Ibuprofen is widely used to ease aches, inflammation, and fever. However, the affected batches of Ibuprofeno Pensavital 400 mg film-coated tablets (NR: 82815, CN: 729876, Lot: 464X, Expiry: 31/07/2026) have failed dissolution tests.

The product is manufactured by Farmalider SA in Madrid and marketed by Towa Pharmaceutical, SA, based in Martorelles. AEMPS has ordered all distributed units to be removed from pharmacies immediately and returned to the laboratory for further examination.

AEMPS has not issued specific guidance for consumers, but experts recommend:

Checking the batch number (464X) to see if your pack is affected.

Consulting a pharmacist or doctor before taking any further doses.

Properly disposing of the tablets if you have any concerns about their effectiveness.

A medicine that doesn’t dissolve properly may not provide the intended pain relief, potentially leaving users without effective treatment for headaches, migraines, arthritis flare-ups, and other health issues. It may lead to inconsistent absorption, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing the likelihood of side effects.

Mercadona price hikes Hacienda cancels some debts

Customers turn to competitors

MERCADONA is in the midst of controversy once more after yet another price hike in the supermarket chain.

This time, annoyance has arisen especially among users of the online service, who have seen the delivery fee increase for the first time in the 25 years of the service.

The new rate of €8.20, which came into force earlier this month,

ted a barrage of criticism on social networks, with many customers venting their anger with what they consider another abusive blow to their pockets.

For the past couple of years, inflation and rising costs have affected all supermarket prices in Spain.

Mercadona, Calahonda.

However, Mercadona’s decision to raise its prices even further, added to the increase in the online delivery rate, has caused customers to consider alternatives.

Until recently, the name of Juan Roig, CEO of Mercadona, was associated with altruistic initiatives, especially after helping those affected by DANA di-

saster in Valencia. However, this new measure is changing the perception of many customers, who have gone from praising the supermarket chain to criticising what they consider an abusive response to their customers’ loyalty. Roig has claimed, ‘It doesn’t depend on a decision of ours [to raise prices], it depends on supply and demand.’

Despite being the leading supermarket chain in Spain, the controversy could affect consumer confidence. Some shoppers have insisted that they will explore other cheaper alternatives, such as Lidl, Aldi or Alcampo, looking for more competitive prices.

SOME taxpayers in Spain could see their debts automatically cancelled, as Hacienda applies exemptions for small amounts and low-income individuals. Since June 2022, the Spanish Tax Agency has stopped collecting minor debts and has introduced protections against asset seizures for those with limited financial resources.

A key rule, published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), states that any outstanding tax debt under €3 will no longer be collected. This measure, designed to reduce administrative costs, means that small debts are automatically cancelled without taxpayer intervention.

Beyond minor debts, certain individuals are also protected from Hacienda’s collection efforts. Under Article 27.2 of the Spanish Workers’ Statute, anyone earning below the minimum wage (€1,134 per month in 2024) cannot have their salary or pension seized. This safeguard ensures that low-income workers and pensioners are not pushed into financial hardship due to unpaid taxes.

To check if you have an outstanding debt with Hacienda, taxpayers can either visit the Agencia Tributaria’s website sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/ inicio.html and log into the electronic tax portal or book an in-person appointment at a local office. While tax compliance remains crucial, these exemptions provide relief for those struggling with small debts or low incomes.

euroweeklynews.com

Spanish hotel ID rules: The one thing you must say when asked for your ID.

Credit: Shutterstock, DC Studio

THIS March, the town of Garrucha will host an exciting artistic showcase at the Cultural Centre of Garrucha.

The painting exhibition, El Taller (The Workshop), brings together an array of impressive works created by students under the guidance of renowned painter

Exploring creativity

Sera n Redondo Quesada. Visiting the exhibition, one immediately notices the depth of talent and artistic growth on display. These painters, having

honed their skills under the expert instruction of Redondo Quesada, present works that demonstrate a mastery of pictorial techniques and expressive forms.

Running from Saturday, March 1 to Friday, March 21 2025, the exhibition takes place at the Cultural Centre of Garrucha in its Exhibition Hall.

Visitors can explore the artwork Monday to Friday: 19.00 - 21.00, Saturdays and Sundays: 12.00 - 14.00 and 19.00 - 21.00

This event, backed by the Department of Cultu-

re, o ers more than just a display of impressive artwork. It serves as a testament to the value of artistic mentorship and community engagement in creative pursuits.

For anyone with an appreciation for art, culture, or the beauty of creative expression, El Taller is an exhibition not to be missed.

Whether an aspiring artist, an experienced painter, or simply someone in search of inspiration, this showcase o ers an enriching and visually striking experience.

A Night of Duende

Teresa He ernan

I WAS once again fortunate to experience a wonderful night at the Auditorio Vera Auditorium on Saturday, February 22. I hadn’t expected to be so blown away by the performance when I booked my ticket.

The evening began with an elegant introduction, during which I was amazed to learn about the lineage and heritage of the musicians we were about to see and hear.

The concert began with Juan Jose Fernandez playing behind the curtain, his ute growing louder as he emerged onto the stage. This was the rst time I had witnessed the ute in Flamenco, and it immediately became clear why it deserves a place alongside the Spanish guitar. It adds melodic depth and a

lyrical quality that makes one wonder why it is not heard more often in Flamenco.

lyrical quality that

Juan Jose Fernandez, a 22-year-old native of Vera, is a dedicated student of his craft and clearly a highly respected musician. The love and support from

Ra ta de Madrid and Juan Farina on vocals, Antonio Sanchez on guitar, El Tobalo and Paquetito Porrina on percussion, and the dancer El Barullo - Farruco have quite literally and guratively embraced this rising star. Witnessing that camaraderie and respect in person was a truly special experience.

his fellow artists were evident the moment he stepped on stage.

Albox Carnival Contest

THE group of friends who recreated the lively market stalls of Albox’s weekly Tuesday market were crowned winners of the Best Costume Award at the 2025 Albox Carnival. Calling themselves Los de Todos los Martes (Those of Every Tuesday), they paid tribute to the many families in the town who have dedicated decades to selling goods in the local market. Their nostalgic and community-focused costume earned them the top prize of €500.

Mar Alfonso.

Meanwhile, the Most Original Costume award went to Los Cornudos Felices (The Happy Cuckolds), who humorously portrayed the famous mechanical bulls seen at fairs.

The award for the Largest Group was claimed by Los Bolos Traviesos (The Mischievous Bowling Pins), boasting an impressive 65 members. Additionally, Peña Baile Kronos received the Best Performance award, with €500 presented by the mayor of Albox, Maria del

In the children’s category, Los Gummy Friends took home the Largest Group Award, while Reinas del Mar (Queens of the Sea) won Best Children’s Performance.

The award ceremony took place immediately after the Grand Carnival Parade, which saw an impressive turnout this year. More than 15 local groups took part, dressed in a variety of creative and often hilarious costumes.

The Albox Town Hall awarded more than €1,700 in prizes to the participating groups.

The group were crowned winners of the Best Costume.

Legal after 34 years

AFTER 34 years of legal uncertainty, the Poligono Industrial Aljoroque in Antas, Almeria, has achieved full legal status. This milestone, nalised on February 20, marks a new chapter for the region’s economic and industrial development.

Established in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Aljoroque Industrial Estate has been a cornerstone of Antas’ economy, housing over 90 businesses and providing numerous jobs. However, its operations were hindered by a lack of formal urban planning approval, limiting expansion and investment opportunities.

The recent approval of the Partial Plan for Sector SR-1 by the Antas Town Council addresses these challenges, o ering legal certainty to existing enterprises and paving the way for future growth. This development is expected to enhance infrastructure, attract new investments, and stimulate economic activity in the region.

Mayor Pedro Ridao Zamora emphasised the signi cance of this achievement, noting that it not only secures the current industrial base but also sets the foundation for

sustainable economic progress in Antas.

The regularisation process involved extensive collaboration between local authorities, business owners, and urban planning experts. Key aspects included updating land classi cations, improving service connections, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards.

With legal obstacles removed, the Poligono Industrial Aljoroque is poised to become a more competitive and attractive location for both existing companies and potential investors, promising a prosperous future for the community.

ECONOMIC PROGRESS IN ANTAS.

Credit: Peter Fryer

Teresa He ernan TREX Andalucia Sanctuary is a family-run animal farm and sanctuary built over 17 years with passion and dedication. Located on the outskirts of Turre, the sanctuary rescues animals in need and o ers a forever home to horses, dogs, cats, goats, chickens, and more.

The sanctuary provides a range of experiences - from riding lessons and boarding facilities to animal adoptions and hands-on visits. Visitors are invited to meet the animals and learn about the sanctuary’s inspiring rescue work.

In addition, events such as the car boot sale on Sunday March 2 give supporters the chance to sell unwanted items or browse for bargains, with pitches costing €5 (please bring your own table). All proceeds directly support animal care.

To book a pitch, call 620 402 176.

You can wish Loki (12 years old) and Kobe (four years old) belated happy birthday wishes.

Trex car boot sale Night of music and nostalgia

GET ready for an unforgettable evening at Mira ores, Los Gallardos Leisure, on Friday, February 28, as Diane Moore takes the stage for a night of classic hits and timeless tunes.

Starting at 8.30pm, this special event promises to

The sanctuary also welcomes visits, o ering a chance to learn about their work and meet the animals. “You can meet all the animals and even purchase a treat basket, which will be sure to make you some lifetime friends around the sanctuary!”

For more information on all the wonderful animals Trex help and the marvellous work they carry out, visit their website https://trexandalucia.com.

transport you through the decades with an electrifying mix of 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s hits, along with Disco and Rock ‘n’ Roll oor- llers that will keep you dancing all night long.

To make the night even better, it’s Fish & Chip Night!

Enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared meal while soaking in the fantastic live music and vibrant atmosphere. Diane Moore, known for her incredible voice and dynamic performances, will be delivering all your favourite songs from across the decades, ensuring a feel-good night packed with nostalgia and great entertainment.

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, disco anthems, or golden oldies, this event is set to bring everyone together for a memorable night of music, dancing, and fun.

Book your table now! Due to high demand, reservations are recommended. To secure your spot for this exciting night, contact Mira ores at Los Gallardos Leisure on 950 528 324. Don’t miss out on a spectacular evening of live music, fantastic food, and great company!

home to horses, dogs, cats, goats,

Wish the animals a belated birthday.

Credit: FB: Trex

Credit: FB: Diane Moore

IES Cura Valera in Huercal-Overa received a visit from three researchers from the Andalucian Institute for Research and Training in Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Organic Production (IFAPA) to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

The scientists María Luz Segura, Juana Isabel Contreras and Amelia Correra, organised a series of workshops with the students of first and second year of Baccalaureate of the centre and explained

Women and Girls in Science

some details of the AgroPuriTech project - an initiative promoted by IFAPA and the town council of Huercal-Overa that uses the circular bioeconomy to treat the slurry generated in intensive pig production.

The researchers shared insights with the students of how their professional lives have developed in the world of re-

THE local indoor market at Albox Cash Converts is set to expand into an adjacent warehouse, marking a new chapter for budding entrepreneurs.

In a bold move to meet growing demand, the market has taken on its neighbouring propertythe former Fructu Motors warehouse - transforming it into a vibrant hub for commerce.

Scheduled to open its doors on Monday, March 3 at 9am, the revamped facility promises an energetic environment for business owners and shoppers alike. Anticipation is building among local entrepreneurs eager to launch their ven-

search and insisted on the important contribution of schools and institutes as centres for the disseminating knowledge and preparing students for scientific careers.

Participants engaged in interactive workshops and discussions, gaining practical insights into scientific research. The event highlighted the importance of community

support in nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of innovation.

As the event ended, the warm sense of community and shared ambition resonated with everyone present, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. This inspiring initiative reinforced that science belongs to all.

Albox indoor market

tures. Operating six days a week, the market is poised to become a cornerstone of community growth and economic innovation.

Several units remain available, offering an enticing opportunity for those ready to become their own bosses. Many have already embraced this

challenge, taking advantage of the chance to turn business dreams into reality. As the expansion unfolds, the market not only increases its retail footprint but also reinforces a commitment to nurturing local talent and entrepreneurial spirit.

Prospective tenants and curious visitors are encouraged to explore the space and discuss available opportunities. For further details, interested parties should contact James via WhatsApp on 711 029 252. Albox Cash Converts, Ctra. Lorca-Baza 72.5km Albox.

A new chapter for budding entrepreneurs.

Laughter in Albox

FOR Spanish speakers, what better way to spend an evening than at the theatre? And if it’s a comedy, even better!

On Saturday, March 1, the Paso Blanco de Albox presents the hilarious comedy Un Secreto a Voces by Álvaro Carrero. The performance, featuring the talented San Juan Teatro company from Vera, promises an evening filled with laughter, unexpected twists, and sharp wit.

The show will take place at the ‘Grupo de Teatro Muñoz Seca’ hall in the Centro de Agua y Salud de Albox at 7.00pm. Audiences can expect a lively and engaging story packed with comedic entanglements, inconvenient truths, and guaranteed laughs.

Tickets are available for a donation of €10 and can be purchased at the following locations:

Albox Town Hall, Peluqueria Manoly, Farmacia Maria Granero, and Asesoria Pleguezuelo.

This event is organised in support of the Hermandad Nuestra Señora de las Angustias de Albox and its charity fund, making it a fantastic way to enjoy a

cultural evening while contributing to a great cause.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience an unforgettable night of theatre. Come along, bring friends, and get ready for an evening of laughter and fun in Albox!

Dog Days

ON Friday February 21, officers from the Local Police of Vera, together with the Asociacion Zadhir, specialised in the training of police dogs, visited CEIP El Argar in Antas to share with the students the important work of these incredible dogs.

Through this educational activity, topics such as addictions and their connection to emotions were addressed, helping to raise awareness among the children.

The day concluded with an exciting demonstration in the school playground, where the students were able to see these trained dogs in action.

A truly rewarding experience for everyone.

THE market at Los Llanos, Arboleas has a new car park which is located close to the market, at the end of Calle Rio Turia and has been constructed to enhance visitor convenience, as the old car park will no longer be available from February.

Operating every Saturday from 8.00am to 2.00pm. For further information, please contact 635 690 487 or visit the market’s official website at www.arboleas market.com.

A modern contemporary design

WELCOME to this stunning new semidetached property, located in the charming coastal town of Villaricos, Almeria. With modern architecture and contemporary design, this home offers a comfortable and stylish lifestyle in a peaceful and tranquil setting.

Upon entering the property, you will find a spacious area where the living/ dining room and kitchen are located respectively.

Next, you will find a modernly designed bathroom, with high quality finishes that add a touch of luxury to the space. Furthermore, an additional room offers the flexibility to be used as a bedroom, office or games room depending on your needs.

Up the modern staircase, you will reach the upper floor, where two further bedrooms and another contemporary bathroom await. The front bedroom offers access to a generous terrace, ideal for enjoying the fresh air and panoramic views of the surrounding environment. Meanwhile, the second bedroom at the rear also boasts its own private terrace, ideal for relaxing al fresco.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this house your new home in the beautiful surroundings of Villaricos, Almeria contact us today on 950 466 112 to arrange a viewing and discover all the wonders this property has to offer!

Villaricos, located in the province of Almeria in Andalucia, is a charming coastal town that combines its rich Phoenician and Roman history with a traditional and welcoming atmosphere. With narrow picturesque streets, whitewashed houses and a vibrant community, Villaricos offers golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters ideal for water activities, an active fishing port that caters to local restaurants and a gastronomic experience based on fresh seafood. Whether for a relaxing holiday or to settle down in a tranquil setting, Villaricos captivates those who visit with its natural beauty and traditional charm.

AYUNTAMIENTO DE MOJACAR

MOJACAR Council has confirmed that the municipality’s first dedicated dog beach will soon be opening on Macenas beach, with the project set for completion in 2025. This long-awaited initiative comes in response to increasing demand for public spaces that cater to pets, further strengthening Mojacar’s reputation as a pet-friendly destination in Almeria Province.

With its picturesque old town, clear waters, and enviable climate, Mojacar has become one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the eastern region of Almeria. In 2024, the municipality welcomed nearly 800,000 visitors, with a significant rise in both national and international tourism. British visitors, in particular, have shown a keen interest in the area, accounting for around 20 per cent of the total

Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 - 04638 Mojácar (Almería)

Telef. 950.615.009 Fax: 950.475.200

info@mojacar.es ayuntamiento.mojacar.es

Sandy paws

number of tourists, according to the Andalucia Institute of Statistics and Cartography.

THE Local Government Board of Mojacar approved a Comprehensive Action Plan nanced with FEDER funds (European Regional Development Funds) and the Provincial Council of Almeria.

The decision, made during a well-attended meeting, marks an important step forward for the municipality and has been welcomed by local residents and business owners alike.

The approved measures include initiatives to improve local infrastructure, bolster tourism, and encourage environmental sustainability.

This comprehensive plan reects the Board’s commitment to fostering a progressive and inclusive community environment. In particular, the enhan-

cement of public spaces and the preservation of cultural heritage have been emphasised as key priorities.

Local representatives highlighted the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to ensure the success of these initiatives. The Board also announced plans to engage with local stakeholders, ensuring that future projects align with the needs and aspirations of the community.

This positive development is anticipated to not only boost local morale but also stimulate economic growth by attracting new investments and visitors. Overall, this recent decision marks a commendable milestone in the mproved quality of life for all residents.

Designating Macenas beach as a dog-friendly zone makes Mojacar the second municipality in

the eastern region to introduce a dedicated dog beach, following in the footsteps of Cuevas del Almanzora. The space will include purpose-built facilities to ensure both pets and their owners have a comfortable and safe experience, with features such as dog-friendly showers, waste bins with bag dispensers, and shaded areas.

Mojacar’s mayor, Francisco Garcia Cerda, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “This dog beach not only meets the needs of our residents but also expands our tourism offering, attracting a growing number of visitors who travel with their pets.”

Mojacar’s A team

CD Mojacar’s Alevin ‘A’ team has achieved an outstanding runner-up position in the 12th edition of the COVAP Cup, held this February in Huercal de Almeria.

After an excellent run in the tournament, the Mojacar team reached the grand nal, where they fell to Poli Aguadulce in an exciting match.

The tournament, in which 16 teams from all over the region took part, has been a great experience for the young players, who showed

talent, commitment and sporting spirit in every match. The Mojacar club congratulated the players for their commitment and great performance in this competition, as well as over the course of the season.

The COVAP Cup is an educational and sporting initiative that goes round the eight Andalucia provinces with the aim of promoting sporting values and healthy lifestyle habits among young athletes. This tournament is not only an opportunity

to compete at the highest level, but also to learn about fair play, team building and the importance of physical activity.

CD Mojacar rea rms its commitment to the sporting education of its players and its backing for football based on values and teamwork. This runner-up title is a reection of the e ort and dedication of the club’s young talents, who will continue to prepare for future competitions with the same enthusiasm and dedication.

Sardine

MOJACAR’S festivities will conclude on Wednesday March 5 with the traditional Burial of the Sardine, a symbolic event marking the end of the grand celebrations. From 7pm, a lively procession will make its way through the streets, bidding farewell to the carnival season with a mix of tradition and good humour.

Mojacar Council invites all residents and visitors to take part in this much-loved event, which each year sees hundreds of people join in the unique and festive atmosphere.

The Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine), also known as the Burial of the Xoubiña, is an annual Spanish tradition marking the end of carnival and other festive celebrations. This event typically features a carnival procession that playfully mimics a funeral, culminating in the burning of a symbolic gure - most commonly a sardine.

Celebrated on Ash Wednesday, the Burial of the Sardine serves as a ritualistic farewell to the indulgences of the past, symbolising renewal and the opportunity for society to be reborn with fresh energy and purpose.

Throughout Spain, many festivals conclude with rituals in which an emblem of excess is burned or destroyed. While some of these customs have faded over time, others have been revived and remain integral to regional traditions.

Dedicated dog beach will soon open on Macenas beach.

Credit: Mojacar Council.

An important step forward.

The Mojacar team reached the grand final.

SOME artists believe that if they can’t find fame in their own right then at least they can make a handsome living by copying modern and older masterpieces.

It’s the modern art that is easier to get away with as paintings by masters such as Rembrandt are closely catalogued, so if a new piece was uncovered it would be subject to investigation, nevertheless some produce supposed artists sketches and offer them for sale at ‘reasonable’ prices through internet sales rooms.

The Italian police specialist unit, the Carabinieri TPC art squad working with the Rome public prosecutor’s office undertook an investigation into what appeared to be production and sale of a series of pieces of art by masters such as Pablo Picasso.

When they raided the property in the north of the city, officers discovered no less than

Forged art

71 pieces of fake artwork, some complete and some part finished but that was not all.

The workshop where the fakes were produced was full of different artists materials, canvasses, old auction catalogues and perhaps most telling, forged certificates of authenticity.

It is not known how long this enterprise had been carried out for, so officers are now trying to trace all of the sales made and make a total of the illicit gains that the forger will have made.

This not an uncommon crime as in December 2024, Italian police dismantled a Europe-wide forgery network suspected of producing replicas of works by artists including Banksy,

Scene from the fake art workshop.

Credit: Carabinieri TPC

Hibernating bears

SOMEHOW when one thinks of animals living in zoos, it doesn’t occur that some will stick to the genetically learned concept of hiber nation.

Certainly, a healthy pair of female brown bears at the Kor keasaari Zoo, Finland’s largest zoo disappeared into their cave at the end of October and apart from re gular waking mo ments, the longest they stayed asleep was for five weeks, partly because of the warmer weather at the beginning of 2025.

Credit: Korkeasaari Zoo

tructions.

Mother (Sofia aged 24) was the first to emerge into the snow, soon followed by her 19-year-old daughter Yula as they raced around their snow covered enclosure, stopping regularly to tumble in the snow and to scratch their backs on handily positioned wood cons-

Closely observed during their period of hibernation, they were regularly fed with vegetables and fruit, but they were not terribly interested in food, although they enjoyed a snack when emerging intermittently to relieve themselves.

Now that they are awake, they will be allowed out on a daily basis and their diet

will be increased to inclu de dry food as well as more substantial fare later in the year as they have to bulk up to around 220 kilos for their next period of hibernation. For the time being, they will return to their cave in the early evening to catch up with some shut eye, but they are expected to be out and about every day from now on.

MURBACH, a small village in the Haut-Rhin region of France, has a vestige of a bygone era: the last telephone box in France. And it still rings.

It has become a tourist attraction, attracting more visitors each year than the village’s impressive eighth-century Romanesque abbey, curious to try out this relic from another age.

Originally left alone by France Telecom due to the valley being a mobile-signal blackspot, the booth has been kept running as a much-loved tourist attraction. The local council has even gone so far as to install a wifi hotspot.

The mayor does not fail to emphasise the importance of this unusual and emblematic

landmark and has even insisted on having the number painted on the cabin: 03 89 74 11 53. And people do call, whether to ask for someone in the village in particular or just curious to see if anyone answers. The town hall has a notebook with the number of calls received from Belgium, Marseille, New Caledonia, and even from as far afield as Colombia.

The mobile signal is still terrible. There was a plan to install a radio tower to improve the signal back, but that was knocked on the head for safety concerns. So, for now, the phone box remains.

In the meantime, the booth continues to be a source of entertainment for the locals, as well as a curious tourist attraction, with many calling in just to see who answers.

Adam Woodward

Receiving calls every day.

Who let the bears out?

Is Russia a security concern for Europe? Your VOICE

WITH security dynamics in Europe evolving, the discussion around Russia’s influence continues. Denmark has announced a massive boost in its defence budget, allocating an extra 50 billion Danish kroner (€6.7 billion) to its military over the next two years. The move, aimed at reaching 3 per cent of GDP in defence spending by 2026, is the biggest increase the country has seen in decades. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen made it clear that this isn’t just about long-term planning - it’s about responding quickly to what she sees as an increasingly dangerous security situation, stating, “We must upgrade massively to protect Denmark.”

Meanwhile, on the global stage, Russia’s relationship with the West is taking new twists. After a high-stakes phone call, Vladimir Putin has invited Donald Trump to Moscow, sparking speculation about what this could mean for US-Russia ties and, by extension, Europe’s security.

These developments prompt a question: Do you perceive Russia as a threat to Europe’s security?

Malcolm Franke says yes: “Obviously! My family had to live under communist rule until 1989. Putin wants the Soviet Union back.”

Bev Townsend states, “With Trump as US president, yes.” Jason Wilson

agrees, writing, “It already was but now with that orange clown in the White House even more so!”

China Li does not think so, stating, “Most definitely not! Only if NATO insist on inserting themselves will Russia (which is their right might I add) defend themselves.”

Paloma Santamaria believes the real threat “is the press with its misinformation.” Miquel Garcia agrees: “No. Only media and government spread hate and lie. The big threat to Europe is Europe’s leaders.”

Angela Edgley shares a similar view: “The EU is a threat to itself. It’s been running around in circles since the UK left instead of becoming stronger. Putin? Well he’s a threat to the world, not just Europe.”

Colin Wheeler feels safe, writing, “No, not now Mr Trump is in charge.”

In conclusion, responses to whether Russia is a security concern for Europe are deeply divided.

While some firmly see Russia as a security concern, others dismiss the idea, or argue that NATO, the media, or even European leadership pose greater risks. With opinions almost evenly split between ‘yes’, ‘no’, and alternative concerns, it’s clear that perspectives on European security remain as polarised as ever.

The Danish Prime Minister said “We must upgrade massively to protect Denmark.”

Navarra: A scenic campervan adventure in northern Spain

NAVARRA is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. Situated in northern Spain, this region is a combination of stunning landscapes and rich history. With its lush forests and medieval villages, Navarra promises a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

Natural wonders

For nature enthusiasts, Navarra is a dream come true. The Irati Forest, one of Europe’s largest beech and fir forests, offers peaceful hiking trails and the chance to spot local wildlife. Visit Bardenas Reales, a dramatic semi-desert landscape - it’s a striking contrast to the northern terrain, and the perfect place to

with Hispavan Campers

practise your photography skills. For outdoor adventurers, visit the Pyrenees mountains for everything from hiking and cycling in the summer to skiing in the winter.

Gastronomy

A trip to Navarra wouldn’t be complete without savouring its incredible food. Pamplona, the capital of the region, is known for its pintxos (delicious small tapas inspired by Basque cuisine). Don’t miss out on trying chistorra, a local sausage, and sample the exquisite wines from the Navarra wine route.

Festivals and culture

Navarra’s vibrant festivals are a key part of the region’s culture. The San Fermín festival in Pamplona, which takes place every July, is world-famous for the thrilling running of the bulls.

Beyond the excitement of the festivals, Navarra is home to charming medieval towns like Olite. With its impressive royal palace and the historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, it attracts both travellers and history buffs from all around the world.

Stops and routes

Travelling by campervan in Navarra is a breeze thanks to the many motorhome-friendly areas. Pamplona offers several convenient spots for overnight stays, while also providing easy access to the city’s attractions.

SUMMARY

Navarra is a great destination for your campervan travels. It doesn’t matter if you’re

DENMARK

X-ed out

THE Danish National Police could leave X (formerly Twitter) amid concerns regarding misinformation and changing algorithms, Denmark’s media revealed. The National Police have used X for real-time updating for some years, but said the time had come for the force to use its own media communications system.

Cry wolf

PRIME MINISTER Mette Frederiksen admitted in parliament that protected wolves were a problem for smaller rural communities, although a solution was outside her area of expertise. She added that more regulation was needed to ‘give nature the space it required’ while ensuring the safety of the local population.

PORTUGAL

Mondego mutiny

THIRTEEN sailors aboard the Mondego who refused to escort a Russian vessel in Portuguese waters in March 2023 are now accused of ‘insubordination through disobedience’. They claimed the Mondego was poorly maintained, slow and incapable of monitoring or keeping up with the Russian ship.

Milestone case

A FARO court held a Ria Formosa fish farm responsible for the death of 14 birds, including eight flamingos, which were trapped in the nets covering the fish cages in December 2021. The Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds welcomed the ruling ‘as so many environmental crimes do not reach court’.

ITALY

Going private

ITALIANS spent €40 billion on private healthcare in 2023, although the Welfare and Health National Observatory (CNEL) found that 40 per cent of tests and services did not correspond to patients’ real needs. Families often took on this financial burden to avoid the Healthcare System’s waiting list, the CNEL said.

Read it up

TURIN university will lead a €2 million international project that intends to use X-rays to decipher an unknown work by third century BC Greek philosopher Chrysippus. The two papyrus scrolls were discovered in Herculaneum, which was buried by the same Vesuvius eruption that destroyed Pompeii in 79AD.

EURO PRESS

NORWAY

Train delayed

THE first long-distance train from Swiss manufacturer Stadler will come into service in 2028 and not 2027, owing to a subcontractor’s holdups caused by River Rhone floods in July.

This initial delay will not affect deliveries of the 17 Stadler trains agreed with Norske Tog which leases rolling stock to Norway’s railways.

Photo credit: Stadler Rail

LONGER WAIT: First long-distance Stadler train will arrive in 2028.

FRANCE

Upside down

POLICE were called to investigate an upended motorhome found on a Saint-Malo road wedged between a ditch and power cables. Eyewitnesses quoted by the Ouest-France newspaper said they saw three unhurt people leave the scene, prompting police to post on Facebook that they ‘sincerely hoped they were okay’.

Born and bred

A STUDY of the 2020 Paris census by France’s Statistics and Economic Studies Institute (INSEE) showed that only a third of the population were born in the city. One third had originated elsewhere in France while the remaining third were born abroad, although INSEE said this was a common pattern in the largest cities.

IRELAND FINLAND SWEDEN

Major errors

KHALID JABER, deputy State Pathologist between 2009 and 2013, was found guilty of ‘major errors’ in post-mortem findings in two cases that could have resulted in a wrongful acquittal or murder conviction. Now based in the Middle East, Jaber said complaints were ‘malicious’ and ‘racially motivated’.

Exclusive club

THE acceptance ‘in principle’ of Ireland’s application to join the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) which is based in Geneva, should allow the country to become an associate member in 2026. Associate membership will cost the government some €1.9 million a year for an initial period of five years.

GERMANY

Data draw

THE Sommerlad furniture company applied for permission to develop a data centre on municipal land adjoining its central warehouse in Wettenberg and now awaits a council decision. All parties focused on the likelihood that the data centre would attract more businesses to the area and create more jobs.

So there!

A FINANCIAL TIMES analysis of railways revealed that despite Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s criticism of Britain’s ‘broken tracks and bad trains’, Germany’s were no better. The FT found that Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance trains were the least reliable in central Europe, even when compared to the UK’s worst operator.

Nursery duty

PETER KULLGREN, Rural Affairs minister, has taken five weeks’ paternity leave but emphasised that although he was the first male Cabinet minister to do so, this was not a case of gender equality. “It’s completely irrelevant. This is something I believe is important in the relationship with my child,” he said.

More time

SWEDEN’S battery manufacturer Northvolt, which announced in November that it had applied for bankruptcy protection in the US and would complete procedures during 2025’s first quarter, has now applied for an extension. “But we still aim to finalise the process during the first quarter,” a spokesperson said.

NETHERLANDS

Here to stay

RESEARCHERS from the University of Utrecht detected unusual concentrations of PFAS known as ‘forever chemicals’ in rivers, lakes and ponds in 170 areas. Eliminating pollution caused by closed or bankrupted companies could cost the government ‘billions’, financial daily Financieele Dagblad warned.

Helping hand

SURVIVORS of last December’s apartment building explosion in The Hague, which killed six people, received a €15,129 share in the €700,000 that the Lichtpuntjes van Mariahoeve association raised via crowdfunding. As Lichtpuntjes has non-profit organisation status, the donations will not be taxed.

Road runners

WEAKENED infrastructure and deteriorated bridges on private roads were affecting the forestry and energy industries, the Finnish Forest Centre’s Economic manager warned. “These roads must withstand very heavy transport,” he said. “If the infrastructure fails, it restricts industrial activity and weakens competitiveness.”

Big spenders

APPROXIMATELY 4.9 million foreign tourists from 106 countries spent €3.7 billion in the country last year, the Business Finland government agency reported, with each person spending an average €764. The Chinese and Americans spent most, while winter tourists spent more than summer visitors, Visit Finland found. Our call

BELGIUM

HILDE CREVITS, Home Affairs minister in Flanders, asked for an end to the language tests needed for Flemish government jobs. The exams were organised by the Federal Policy and Support Service (BOSA), she said, meaning that the Flemish government had no say in setting the requirements for its own language.

Self service

A LEUVEN pizzeria owner recently found an intruder who had turned on an oven and a deep fryer, presumably to make something to eat, before drinking several bottles of spirits and falling asleep. Woken the next morning by the restaurateur, he later insisted to police that he had no idea of how he came to be there.

Onward and upwards

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ONE of my almost daily undertakings is to watch American TV news programmes. Later, when I laboriously and often somewhat briefly scan the UK media, I am frequently staggered by the perspectives and propaganda the leftie run channels heap down the throats of the British public.

Despite the rhetoric that issues from the mouths of BBC presenters, whose female variety are now garbed from neck to ankles, including wrists in the dowdiest of outfits presumably to not offend some areas of the British populace, I can quite categorically state that the vast majority of Americans are elated by the election results.

The whole country is heaving tumultuous sighs of relief that finally they have reinstated someone who is more interested in the public well-being than preaching antiquated nonsense and wasting the tax payer’s money on a misconception of priorities and obscure rackets that are bleeding their country dry.

The leftie democrat minority, who supported the Biden/Harris/Obama brigade running the nation into the ground, are much like the British labour party; not coming up with any efficacious alternate ideas to overcome problems that beset the country, but merely screaming public obscenities, holding traffic obstructing protest meetings and singing ‘we shall overcome’ to a raggle taggle bunch of diminishing supporters who are more interested in supporting diversity and entering men in women’s sports events than putting food in the mouths of the struggling public.

Trump (who has most certainly had face and somewhat dubious hair procedure) is, at one hell of a pace, striding into the foray like a well-intentioned elephant. Although you may disagree with some of his often-inconceivable suggestions, every single one has the well-being and productive future of the American voters in mind.

Just this week he announced that he is forming a committee to go through the gold records of Fort Knox, merely to see if it’s ‘all still there’ and I’ll tell you something, it truly wouldn’t surprise me if the investigation came up

short. One thing is without a doubt, his overall intentions are anti-war and a reinstatement of America as one of the most peaceful leading countries in this crime ridden, woke infested society that most of the world’s inhabitants are finding themselves in.

Just the other day I couldn’t help but laugh at a White House conference where the head of one department advocated that trans men should be allowed to partake in female sports events and when Trump stated that he would cut off all their federal money, informed the president of the United States that she would ‘see him in court,’ Trump truly loved that.

Another example of the mentality of the woke morons, many I’m afraid who still hold positions in the portals of UK politics. Ah well, onward and hopefully upwards. Thanks for all the mail, including the yoke instead of yolk correctors who left the ol boy with egg on his face last week. Keep ‘em coming, I do read them all. Have a good week. Don’t let ‘em grind you down and whatever ya do -

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.

Citizenship test

FINLAND is planning to introduce a new citizenship test designed to assess how well applicants understand Finnish society, culture, and values. The Interior Ministry’s proposal aims to ensure that potential citizens are genuinely prepared to integrate and contribute to the community. Unlike traditional tests, this new assessment would go beyond rote memorisation of facts.

It would cover a wide range of topics, including history, geography, everyday skills, and public safety. The goal is not only to measure knowledge, but also to evaluate an applicant’s ability to live in harmony with Finnish values and maintain public safety.

Applicants aged 18 to 64 would be required to take the digital test, although exceptions might be made for those who struggle with the format. Additionally, a personal interview could become part of the process, providing a platform to discuss values, national security, and assess language skills in Finnish or Swedish.

The proposed test is part of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s broader plan to tighten citizenship requirements, including stricter rules on income and length of residence. The bill is expected to be presented to Parliament later this year.

If implemented, this test could significantly change Finland’s citizenship process, promoting deeper integration while balancing national values with inclusivity.

Credit : Shutterstock, justit Finland introduces a draft proposal for a new digital citizenship test.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

In the air

NATWEST chief executive Paul Thwaite declined to comment on rumours that the bank, bailed out in 2008 but now preparing to return to full private ownership, was considering future takeovers. These centred on Santander UK and also the TSB should Spain’s BBVA succeed in taking over its owner, Banco Sabadell.

On track

SPAIN’S Ineco, Typsa, Idom, Consultrans and Meta Engineering are amongst companies competing to carry out a €15.42 million preliminary study for Chile’s new Santiago-Valparaiso railway link. The 172-kilometre railway line serving the two cities and 10 other municipalities will cost an estimated €3.65 billion.

Treading water

THAMES WATER avoided nationalisation after the courts approved a £3 billion (€3.6 billion) lifeline from senior creditors. This will give the UK’s biggest water company, which has debts of £18 billion (€21.7 billion), an initial £1.5 billion (€1.8 billion) with a possible £1.5 billion to extend funding until May 2026.

Now open

OPENBANK, Banco Santander’s fully online subsidiary, began operations throughout Mexico with a wide range of day-to-day banking services on February 18 for the 30,000 customers on its waiting list. Clients sign up in just five minutes, pay no fees and are able to make cash withdrawals at 10,000 Santander ATMs.

Looking ahead

HSBC, the UK’s biggest bank, confirmed that it will scrap plans to achieve net-zero carbon emissions throughout the company by 2030. The bank also told shareholders that it plans to cut still more jobs, incurring approximately £1.4 billion (€1.7 billion) in severance pay and other costs over the next two years.

STAT OF WEEK

€5 billion

Conflict pays

PROFITS for BAE Systems, which builds military equipment, rose to £3.02 billion (€3.6 billion) last year as governments worldwide increased their defence budgets.

Global defence spending grew 7.4 per cent last year to $2.46 trillion (€23.59 trillion) as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, combined with conflict in the Middle East and deteriorating relations between the West and China, figures from the International Institute for Strategic Studies showed.

BAE’s 2024 profits were 14 per cent up on 2023, while revenue for the UK company, which is Europe’s leading defence contractor, rose to £28.34 billion (€34.22 billion) compared with £25.28 billion (€30.52 billion) the previous year.

Orders slowed to £33.7 billion (€40.7 billion), contrasting with

£37.7 billion (€45.6 billion) in 2023 although BAE’s record backlog amounted to £77.8 billion (€94 billion), an increase of £8 billion (€9.7 billion) and three times its annual sa les.

Over the coming year BAE, which employs 107,000 people in more than 40 countries, pre dicts that sales will climb between 7 and 9 per cent as Europe prepares to improve its military strength.

is needed to carry out work preventing a repetition of catastrophic flooding in Spain’s Mediterranean areas, the Association of Infrastructure Construction Companies (Seopan) calculated.

The company had sustained its track record of “strong top-line and earnings growth, free cash flow and orders,” BAE’s chief executive Charles Woodburn said on February 19.

“We remain confident in the positive momentum of our business

Masdar wants more

ABU DHABI-BASED renewable energy company

Masdar is in talks with Endesa to acquire a second holding in Enel Green Power Spain.

This follows Masdar’s €850 million purchase last summer of a 49 per cent stake that put a €1.7 billion value on the company.

Masdar and Endesa have not commented on the operation which,

Done deal

BRITISH mining multinational Anglo American has agreed to sell its nickel division for approximately $500 million (€479.5 million).

MMG Singapore Resources, a subsidiary of Melbourne-based MMG, has agreed to pay $350 (€335.6 million) on completion.

An Anglo-American statement added that MMG Singapore Resources would pay up to $100 million (€95.8 million) in price-linked payments and a contingent $50 million (€47.9 million) in cash for the potential development of the projects.

according to a source quoted by the financial daily, Cinco Dias, was still at a ‘very early’ stage.

More than half of the cost of the July transaction was covered by a syndicated loan headed by BNP Paribas with participation from Banco Santander as well as banks in Italy, Abu Dhabi and Japan. The same source suggested

into the future,” he added. Meanwhile the BAE board has recommended a final dividend of 20.6p (€0.25) per share, taking 2024’s total dividend to 33p (€0.40) which, subject to shareholders’ approval, will be paid on June 2, 2025.

that these banks were likely to be involved in the acquisition of a further holding.

Outside Spain, Masdar

Spreading it out

THE La Caixa Foundation has increased its 2025 budget to a record €655 million, 9 per cent more than in 2024.

Of this, the Foundation is assigning the lion’s share of €370 million, 60 per cent of total, to its social transformation programmes which assisted more than 235,000 people in 2024.

The remainder will be allocated to culture and science (€130 million), investigation and health (€105 million), together with education and grants (€49 million).

The Foundation is the sole shareholder of Criteria Caixa, whose dividends fund its welfare projects. The investment holding company, which is also Caixabank’s majority shareholder, contributed €120 million in payouts to the Foundation earlier this year.

BP could be considering the sale of its Castrol lubricants business, Bloomberg reported.

This could be worth $10 billion (€9.6 billion), sources who asked not to be named told the financial news agency.

The sale is said to be one of the options that the multinational is currently contemplating as it tries to regain the confidence of investors. It is almost certainly linked to activist investor Elliott Investment Management which holds a stake of almost 5 per cent in the London headquartered company, insiders maintained.

has already signed a 2023 ‘mega-alliance’ with Iberdrola to invest €15 billion in renewables in the UK, Germany and the US.

Some improvement

TELEFONICA subsidiary Virgin Media 02 announced losses of £16.5 million (€19.9 million) last year.

Although the UK telecoms company, which Telefonica part-owns with Liberty Media, was still in the red, the 2024 losses were 99.5 per cent lower than the £3.64 billion (€4.39 billion) that the company reported in 2023.

Revenue fell 2.1 per cent to £10.68 billion (€12.89 billion) but the improved figures were the outcome of the ‘positive evolution’ of Virgin Media’s operations and lower outgoings.

In 2023, the company’s operations resulted in losses of £2.46 billion (€2.97 billion) but brought in £928 million (€1.12 billion) in 2024.

THE European Union’s intellectual Property Office (EUIOP) has accepted Zicaffe’s appeal against Inditex’s use of the name Zacaffe for Zara coffee shops. Italian coffee company Zicaffe challenged the Inditex application on the grounds that the names are confusingly similar. Having accepted the appeal, the EUIOP has given both parties two months to reach an agreement. If that does not produce results, it will be followed by a long-drawn-out process lasting several months that could eventually reach the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).

BILLING mistakes cost the UK’s principal energy providers more than £20 million (€24.15 million) since 2020.

Centrica, formerly British Gas, was responsible for 20 per cent of all payouts.

Analysing cases referred to the Energy Ombudsman when companies and clients failed to resolve a problem within two months, the Guardian detected a 141 per cent increase over the last five years.

Billing was responsible for 54 per cent of the complaints.

Photo credit: BAE Systems

RENEWABLES: Further Masdar interest in Enel Green Power.

CHARLES WOODBURN: BAE can sustain track record, chief executive said.

3I Group 4.102,25 4.108,97 4.095,70 18,18K

Group 2.805,6 2.811,0 2.803,0 2,72K

British Foods 1.917,0 1.921,0 1.914,0 11,15K

11.749,0 11.754,0 11.728,0 27,34K

Trader Group Plc 771,20 773,00 771,20 106,32K

499,60 500,60 499,30 42,04K B&M European Value Retail SA 290,20 295,20 290,00 401,46K BAE Systems 1.287,11 1.294,50 1.286,50 166,47K

302,70 303,40 301,05 799,34K

Redrow 427,30 427,90 423,80 64,25K Beazley 822,00 829,00 820,50 3,02K Berkeley 3.760,0 3.760,0 3.734,0 3,46K BP 448,55 449,80 448,25 293,72K

American Tobacco 3.009,7 3.025,0 3.009,7 193K

Group 152,00 152,00 150,64 142,4K

3.364,0 3.378,0 3.358,0 9,71K

147,85 148,35 146,52 227,64K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Enagas losses

ENAGAS, which owns and operates Spain’s gas grid, lost €299.3 million in 2024 compared with 2023’s €342.5 million profit. The partly publicly-owned company attributed its losses to the sale of Tallgrass Energy in the US and cancellation of the GSP project in Peru.

Deal doubts

BRITAIN’S Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said the £764 million (€922.9 million) sale of haulage firm Wincanton to US company GXO Logistics could reduce competition and raise grocers’ costs. Without concessions, it would reverse the deal, the CMA warned.

Port Talbot go-ahead

TATA STEEL’S electric arc furnace at its Port Talbot plant received planning permission from the local authorities on February 18.

The company would start ‘large-scale work’ at the site this summer, Tata Steel UK’s chief executive Rajesh Nair, pledged.

The £1.25 billion (€1.5 billion) investment was the most significant that Tata had made in the UK steel industry ‘in decades’ Nair added. The company also received £500 million

Losses for Pontegadea

AMANCIO ORTEGA’S UK property investments lost 11 per cent of their value in 2023.

Pontegadea GB 2020, which manages the real estate holdings of Inditex’s creator and principal shareholder, reported losses of €34 million compared with a €51 million profit the previous year.

According to the last available Mercantile Register figures, the combined value

of Ortega’s properties fell from €3.1 billion in 2022 to €2.7 billion in 2023. This was principally due to the impact of interest rates which have particularly affected his prime site office blocks in recent years.

Pontegadea UK’s accounts also arrived later than usual, after Ortega engaged Deloitte as the company’s auditors, following disagreements with EY over delays and charges.

(€603.4 million) funding from the UK government.

Tata closed its two Port Talbot blast furnaces in 2024, announcing that they would be replaced with an electric arc furnace as the company shifted to ‘greener’ production methods.

Approximately 3,000 jobs were lost, although Tata Steel insisted that the move had also saved 5,000 UK jobs, while on-site carbon dioxide emissions had been reduced by 90 per cent.

The company also pointed out that it had lost £4 billion (€4.8 billion) since acquiring the Port Talbot steelworks in 2007 and the arc furnace would create a business that was sustainable ‘both financially and environmentally.’

The new installation will include a scrap processing plant as the furnace will function by melting scrap steel, with more pure forms added in order to achieve specialist grades.

Big loan

MASORANGE is negotiating a €2 billion loan to reduce the size and cost of its €12 billion debt and extending the repayment period. The telecommunications company, which hopes to take advantage of lower interest rates as well as its own good results, has engaged investment banks BNP Paribas, Goldman Saches and Mitsui to lead the operation.

ANGLO-SWISS Glencore, one of the world’s largest mining companies, said that it was considering plans to change its primary listing from London and would probably go to New York. The company, which floated on the London Stock Exchange in 2011, has since said it believed that its shares would obtain a higher price elsewhere.

PORT TALBOT: Traditional blast furnaces phased out.

ALMERIA

Culinary Karma

Teresa Heffernan

KHAN SARFRAZ, proprietor of Karma Bar Indian Restaurant, in La Alfoquia, has been a resident of the area for more than 12 years and opened Karma three years ago.

It is a spacious and bright area with comfortable seats and the tables are large enough to accommodate various dishes, for an enjoyable dining experience.

During our talk, family after family entered - all saluting Khan, who responded with a warm welcome. He was enthusiastically introduced to the visiting grandchildren of regular customers.

Apart from the essential ingredients for authentic Indian cuisine, which Khan imports from India, all other ingredients are sourced as locally as possible. I have eaten here with my own family and attest to the care taken by Khan and his team in procuring fresh, local produce.

Khan said for a first-time visitor, he would ask a few questions to ascertain their preferred flavours and spice levels before suggesting dishes to suit their tastes.

A set menu is also available for eat-in, at €13.50. It comprises a choice of five starters and seven mains, with rice or naan. Plenty parking available. The kitchen is open 12.30pm to 3pm and 6pm to 10.30pm Thurs to Tues.

Avenida de Andalucia, 41 La Alfoquia, Zurgena 632 110 888

Boston Bar, Albox

PERCHED on the edge of the Rotonda Santuario de Saliente, from the outside, there is nothing extraordinary about Boston Bar. However, as soon as you walk through the door, you are welcomed by cheerful staff and happy diners.

Place your order at the bar before taking a seat outside on the terrace or inside. There is a fantastic selection of tapas displayed on the bar, every day offers a different selection of flavoursome, freshly made tapas.

There is also a selection of mains available. Breakfast can be toast with a variety of toppings or a full cooked breakfast for €6.

On this recent visit, I noticed a sign announcing ‘Coming soon. Steak Pie. Fish & Chips. And more’.

The bar is always busy, yet the staff take it all in their stride, taking the time to answer any questions diners might have and have a bit of banter. Ana and Tatiana are two of the friendliest servers I have ever come across.

Charity soiree

PJ’s Cafe.

Keep an eye out on the flyers and posters announcing live music performances. A Wednesday is Beer & Paella Day. Buy a bottle of beer for €1 and receive a complementary tapa of delicious paella. There is parking to the side and along the front of

side and along the front of the bar.

Boston Bar

Ctra (Highway) Lorca Baza, km 73, 04800 Albox

Open 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday Open 7am to 4pm Saturday

Timeless traditions

EVERYONE is invited to an enchanting charity event at La Vida Bar & Restaurant in Cucador, Zurgena. Early bird tickets offer a €5 discount and include a meal, with €7 per ticket supporting charity una a una (one by one), which aids victims of domestic and sexual violence in Almanzora.

Local businesses join the cause with offerings from Bar Plaza Partaloa, Helen Sharp, David Sharp, Lorena’s Cafe & Bar, Frankies Bar Vera Playa, La Fiesta Arboleas, I love Mojacar, and El Chacho Bar and Restaurante Mojacar.

FROM Friday February 28 to Saturday March 2, Huercal-Overa will celebrate its rich history with a grand Historical Reenactment and Baroque Market in Plaza de la Constitucion. This event commemorates the Exencion de Villazgo (Exemption from Villazgo), a historic moment that marked the town’s transition to self-governance.

Entertainment is provided by Emma Jayne Wild, Kayleigh Easton, Kay Frances, Hot Vox, Rebs on the Rocks, Corine Bausola’s burlesque group and a line dancing class led by Carrie Ann Earl.

Call to book now.

The three-day celebration will immerse visitors in the Baroque period with an authentic market lled with artisans, traditional products, and period-appropriate performances. Attendees can expect a variety of cultural activities, live demonstrations, and historical recreations that transport them back in time.

Guests receive a free raffle ticket and bingo game, while the auction features community offerings such as half a day of plumbing by Nick Madigan, two hours of cleaning by Patricia Mullen, a beauty treatment from Corine Bausola, and oneto-one yoga and postural realignment in Mojacar with Summer Phillips.

Additional prizes include a sound and reiki treatment by Hadley Vox, and a Sunday lunch voucher for two at

Payable at the door. 950 634 562

Doors open 11.30am and the event starts at 12 noon.

Bar Restaurant La Vida, Ave. Europa, Cucador, Zurgena.

Organised by Huercal-Overa Town Hall, in collaboration with the Almeria Provincial Council, the event aims to highlight the town’s historical signi cance while providing a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.

This festival involves history, witness skilled craftsmanship, and you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere full of music, theatre, and traditional costumes.

Credit: Boston Bar.

Credit: Karma Bar & Indian Restaurant.

Foreign screws

Farah Mokrani

DUTCH surgeons are grappling with a unique winter challenge - treating ski injuries from the Alps complicated by foreign surgical hardware. Each year, hundreds of Dutch skiers return from Austria and Switzerland with frac-

tures treated using screws, plates, and pins from small, often unfamiliar manufacturers. Trauma surgeon Kees Bartlema from Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum highlights the problem: “It’s like trying to fit a Pozidriv screwdriver into a Phillips screw - if

the tool doesn’t fit, you risk stripping both.”

The difficulty lies in the lack of standardisation in orthopaedic materials across Europe. Dutch hospitals often struggle to match the equipment needed for follow-up care, leading to delays and po-

Cigarettes litter

LAST year 6,609 litterbugs were caught red-handed in Belgium’s Flemish region and 93 per cent of these involved cigarette butts.

Public waste collection agency OVAM which collects Flanders rubbish had to handle approximately 6.6 tons of rubbish in 2023.

Talking to the VRT broadcaster, OVAM’s press officer Jan Verheyen said this suggested a downward trend, but the Agency was not entirely satisfied with the reduction. He revealed that many smokers did not regard throwing away a cigarette butt as dropping litter. “While it certainly is,” Verheyen added.

As well as making work for OVAM, he explained to VRT that discarded cigarette ends were environmentally unfriendly.

“Cigarettes contain tar, nicotine and heavy metals which end up in groundwater and can cause pollution,” he told VRT.

“Filters also decompose very slowly as they consist of plastics that decompose into microplastics.”

Anybody found dropping litter faced a fine of up to €500 although this amount increases if the same person was caught doing so within two years

“Flemish cities and municipalities spend €144 million a year cleaning up litter,” Nathalie Debast from the Flemish Municipal and City Authorities association (VVSG) said.

“That is money we would rather use for other projects,” she told the VRT.

tential complications.

Bartlema has even had to request specific tools by post or consult directly with Alpine surgeons to manage patient care. He advises injured skiers to consider waiting until they return home for surgery, opting instead for temporary casts and pain management to avoid future complications.

This issue has sparked calls for a unified European standard for surgical hardware.

Not only would this streamline medical care

Many skiers face the risk of injuries on Alpine slopes, often leading to surgeries abroad and potential challenges for Dutch hospitals.

across borders, but it could also prevent unnecessary surgeries and reduce the need for patients to travel back to Alpine clinics for corrections. With travel

insurance and healthcare costs also in play, standardisation could offer significant benefits for both healthcare providers and patients.

‘Free’ return flights

AER LINGUS which is part of the IAG Group of airlines which include British Airways and Iberia is o ering members of its AerClub a free return ight from Dublin to Faro.

This is the second o er, following the introduction of a similar free return ight to Tenerife scheduled for April of this year which was fully booked within three hours of being announced.

The idea is to encourage passengers to be loyal to both Aer Lingus and British Airways (whose Executive Club members may also apply for the seats).

The concept is very simple as club members simply have to book the ights by surrendering 15,000 Avios points that they have earned through other ights and in return they will receive the free seats as well as attractive baggage allowances inclu-

TOMMY CASH is a 23-yearold Estonian rapper who usually sings in English and whose real name is Tomas Tammemets.

When he travels to Basel to compete in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest in May, Estonia’s entry will be partly in English but also - as the title, Espresso Macchiato suggests - in Italian.

Codacons, a group of Italian of consumers’ rights associations, has already objected to Espresso Macchiato’s lyrics, which it nds o ensive for dwelling on ‘stereotypes about Italy and Italians’.

It has complained to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), calling for the song’s exclusion from Eurovision.

Written in bad English and bad Italian, Estonia’s entry has been slated as ‘a parody of Italian culture’ with hackneyed expressions taken from the Italian language.

‘Mi money numeroso. I work around the clocko’, Tommy Cash raps, ‘That’s why I sweating, like a ma oso’.

Senator Gian Marco Centinaio from the League party also wants the song to be barred from Eurovision.

“Is this the idea of European brotherhood that the organisers have in mind?” he

ding both hand and hold luggage at no extra cost.

The actual ights will be as follow;

EI496 Dublin to Faro (DUB-FAO) departing August 17, 2025 at 16.05 EI497 Faro to Dublin (FAO - DUB) departing August 24, 2025 at 19.40 although inexplicably the return ight is mistakenly described as a Du-

Italy

blin to Faro ight in the small print of the Aer Lingus website o er. There will be extra charges if passengers want to choose one of the 174 seats that are being made available and they will also have to pay government taxes, fees and carrier charges, but the saving will still be signi cant over the published price.

isn’t amused

wrote on Instagram. EBU has since explained that all participating broadcasters had until March 10 to formally submit their entries.

“If a song is deemed unacceptable for any reason, broadcasters are given the opportunity to modify it,” the organisers said. “Or they can select a new one, before the deadline as per the rules of the contest.”

Drinking crackdown

BARCELONA has dropped a boozy bombshell on fun-seekers: from June 1, pub crawls are strictly off the menu in the city’s famous Eixample district. This sobering new measure, set to last two years, also rules out any sort of advertising for organised drinking tours.

This isn’t Barcelona’s first rodeo when it comes to cracking down on bar-hopping. Pub crawls have already been banned in the city’s old town - the Ciutat Vella district - since 2012, and that particular prohibition will remain in force until at least 2028. Now, Eixample is joining the party (or not!) by rolling out its own two-year ban, signalling a strict ‘no gracias’ to anyone hoping to take part in organised pint-fuelled prowls around the city’s iconic grid-like streets.

City bosses say these late-night boozy jaunts are ‘incompatible with community harmony and the local residents’ right rest’. In a mayoral decree, officials have promised to completely restrict pub crawls between 7pm and 7am, citing concerns over public disturbances - especially in hotspots like the trendy Enric Granados area, where revellers have been known to cause a right old racket.

Before the measure is set in stone, there’s a 20-day public consultation period for any objections.

Barcelona City Council is already taking a firm line: over 2023 and 2024, officials dished out a whopping 366 fines related to the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in Eixample.

Aer Lingus special return flight Dublin to Faro.

TOMMY CASH: Will represent Italy in Eurovision 2025.

Photo credit: Estonian Foreign Ministry

Tourist hot spot

ALTHOUGH there are many popular city breaks for tourists across Europe with London and Paris being some of the busiest, not many people would expect that Berlin would attract so many.

According to a report from tourist association Visit Berlin, some 12.7 million people chose the German capital as a favoured destination in 2024 which is a 5 per cent increase in visitor numbers over 2023. Add to this, for the first time since the pre-pandemic days of 2019, more than 30 million overnight stays were also recorded by the hospitality industry.

Increasingly more important as a business destination for German residents, the real drive has come from foreign tourists who accounted for 42 per cent of all visitors in 2024, a considerable increase over the previous year. Interestingly, the two European countries which

supply the largest proportion of foreign visitors are The Netherlands and the United Kingdom based on a long-term survey conducted by the company of some 1,700 tourists between May 2023 and April 2024.

The age groups which are most attracted to Berlin from abroad are in the early 40s, whilst German visitors tend to be a little older averaging 44 years

of age, but Visit Berlin insists that there is something to attract everyone with historic sites, good hotels and restaurants, plenty of shopping and entertainment. Much is being done to promote international trade fairs which attract wealthy businesses as well as visitors and there is even a programme to import an American NFL match to the city in 2025.

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Spain’s housing heritage:

The rise of the green awning

PICTURE IT: rows of sun-faded, brick-built blocks of flats, each crowned with bottle-green awnings flapping in the Spanish breeze. Hardly the stuff of postcards, is it? Yet, these so-called eyesores, once dismissed as the epitome of ‘ugly Spain’, are now being celebrated as cultural treasures comparable to Spain’s cathedrals and palaces.

Built during the 1960s and 1970s, these residential blocks owe their starring role in Spain’s urban landscape to the country’s largest internal migration, when workers fled rural life for the bright lights of the city.

Franco’s regime (1939–1975) presided over a housing boom, constructing an eye-watering four million flats. Initially state-built under the Catholic-inspired 1959 Stabilisation Plan, the construction baton was later passed to private developers still dominating the market.

These blocks, with their ever-present green awnings, became working-class havens, though many now find themselves in gentrified middle-class areas. In Madrid, they comprise staggering

45 per cent of all housing stock, having accommodated a population explosion from 800,000 to over three million in just four decades.

Architect Pablo Arboleda, author of Toldo Verde (Green Awning), argues these unassuming buildings hold the key to understanding modern Spain. And where does he live? In one of these very flats (green awning included), bought for an ‘exorbitant’ price in Madrid’s south. Truly, one person’s ‘ugly’ is another’s iconic. ‘Ooh, the irony!’ as Kenneth Williams, on reflection, probably didn’t say...!

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

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

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Credit: Daniel Mennerich flickr

The Brandenburg Gate is a popular tourist destination.

A holistic approach Ultimate healthy meal

NATUROPATHY is a holistic approach to health that emphasises the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Rooted in natural therapies, it combines modern science with traditional healing practices to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. For beginners, understanding naturopathy starts with its core principles: treating the root cause of illness, prioritising prevention, and empowering individuals to take charge of their health.

At its core, naturopathy uses natural remedies like herbal medicine, nutrition, hydrotherapy, and lifestyle counselling. It also incorporates techniques such as acupuncture, massage, and mindfulness to restore balance. Unlike conventional medicine, which often targets symptoms, naturopathy seeks to address the underlying causes of illness, considering factors like diet, stress, and environmental toxins.

Starting your naturopathic journey can be as simple as integrating small changes into your lifestyle. Focus on a whole-food, plant-rich diet, ensure proper hydration, and prioritise quality sleep. Practices like yoga and meditation can further enhance your mind-body connection.

Consulting a licensed naturopathic practitio-

A NUTRITION expert has designed what he claims is the healthiest meal ever, packing all essential nutrients into a single sitting. Paul Berryman, a leading nutrition researcher, analysed thousands of studies to create a perfectly balanced three-course meal. The starter features a salmon terrine with a green salad and olive oil. Rich in omega-3s, salmon supports brain and heart health, while the salad provides vitamins

and fibre. Olive oil adds polyphenols, known for their anti-inflammatory effects. The main course is a chicken and lentil stew, delivering lean protein, iron, and gut-friendly fibre. Dietitians suggest adding extra vegetables for enhanced balance. Dessert is a yoghurt-based blancmange topped with walnuts, combining probiotics for gut health with brain-boosting antioxidants and healthy fats. While this meal is packed with benefits, experts caution

against eating the same thing daily. Variety is key to long-term health, as different foods provide different nutrients. Some concerns also surround frequent salmon consumption due to mercury exposure, with alternatives like mackerel or sardines offering similar benefits. So, is this the healthiest meal ever? It’s certainly one of the most balanced, but the real secret to long-term wellness is a varied, nutrient-rich diet rather than a single perfect meal.

7 smart ways to save fuel on your daily drive from Generali Expatriates

Did you know that burning just one litre of petrol releases about 2.3 kg of CO2 into the atmosphere? Reducing fuel consumption not only saves money but also reduces your environmental impact. Here are seven simple ways to help save fuel:

1. Plan your route: Check traffic updates and plan ahead. Adding 10 minutes to a journey can increase fuel consumption by up to 14%.

2. Check tyre pressure: Underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by 2-4% and decrease safety.

3. Carry only what you need: Every extra 50 kg can raise fuel consumption by nearly 3%.

4. Maintain a consistent speed: Gradually accelerate and ease off the accelerator early when slowing down.

5. Use higher gears: Keep the engine relaxed by using higher gears at lower rpm to save fuel.

6. Turn off the engine during long stops: Idling wastes fuel. Switch off the engine if you’ll be stopped for more than a minute.

7. Use air conditioning wisely: Keep windows closed and set air conditioning to 21-23°C to avoid excessive fuel consumption.

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Foreign buyers flock to Golden Visa scheme

A GROWING wave of international investors is turning to Greece’s Golden Visa programme, driving up real estate transactions and cementing the country’s status as a top destination for residency-by-investment. Recent statistics show that more than 10 per cent of all property deals during the 2023–24 period were tied to the scheme, highlighting Greece’s dual appeal as both a home and a gateway to the European Union.

According to the Hellenic Property and Investment Authority, Greece recorded approximately €41.2 billion in property sales in 2023 and 2024, with a significant €4.44 billion linked to Golden Visa applicants. The residency programme attracted 8,477 applicants in 2023, with numbers rising to 9,289 in 2024. While the minimum required investment stood at €250,000, many buyers exceeded this threshold, contributing to the buoyant real estate market.

In a bid to manage housing demand, Greece recently raised the minimum investment to €800,000 in high-demand areas. Analysts anticipate this change could cool real estate-driven applications, but Greece’s Golden Visa might still thrive due to shifting policies in other European countries. With Spain phasing out its Golden Visa and Portugal excluding real estate from its programme, experts believe Greece could become even more attractive to investors from the US and Asia. Looking ahead, the Greek government aims to diversify its investment incentives, reducing reliance on property deals and encouraging broader economic engagement. This evolving strategy could see Greece balancing its real estate appeal with fresh opportunities in other sectors, ensuring long-term growth and stability.

Cold water event

FINLAND has always had a reputation for being inhabited by hardy souls who think nothing of enjoying the snow and jumping into very cold water.

To prove the point, the Avantoralli event returns to the city of Silo on March 1 and 2 and revels in the excitement of cold water swimming and general well-being.

There is a growing interest in the link between AI and cryogenics with the suggestion that freezing the human body under controlled conditions can be beneficial to long term health and possibly extend the lifespan.

The Avantoralli event certainly doesn’t go that far but does promote the advantages of being cold and then warming up and the

opening ceremony of the event will be held at the Salo Market Square which will feature hot tubs, saunas, cold pools, a jacuzzi and a river slide.

Naturally, there will also be a chance to enjoy live music, a fashion show and a selection of stalls, some of which will be supplying hot food for cold bodies as well as drinks.

There are a number of saunas in Salo, most of

which are close to well organised cold swimming areas such as the sea, lakes, ponds, springs or rivers, so for a small fee there will be a number of attractive and hopefully healthy options for visitors of all ages.

As part of what could be considered a ‘New Age’ weekend, Salo will also offer other well-being-related events, such as yoga, pilates and sound bowl relaxation.

Get ready to enjoy the cold water.

Credit: City of Salo Council

Greece has dual appeal.

Credit - Shutterstock: Alexandros Michailidis

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The main property is renovated and offers very flexible accommodation depending on your requirements. The house has rustic style tiles, traditional wooden doors, ceiling beams, iron window grills etc. At the rear of the property are further outbuildings ready for renovation into further accommodation or workshops etc

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Costa del Sol Tivoli to repoen

TIVOLI WORLD amusement park, the only one of its kind in the Costa del Sol, will have a second life. After years left abandoned, except for the dedication of its ex-employees taking care of the site, the fun fair will reopen completely renovated and somewhat transformed.

This change is the result of months of negotiations between the council of Benalmadena and the owner, Tremon Group, who are to sign an agreement to revitalise the area of the Costa del Sol.

The 60,000 square metres it occupies in Arroyo de la Miel were being eyed up for a shopping centre project. Benalmadena Council managed to negotiate a deal with the group for a renewed theme park with a shopping centre and a hotel.

The park closed in 2020 declaring itself bankrupt after years of legal battles between the previous owner and Grupo Tremen over payment. Ever since, the workers of Tivoli have been campaigning to get the park up and running once more.

Axarquia

Charity walk for Blanca

TOTALAN will hold a charity walk on Sunday, March 2, to support Blanca, a 10-year-old girl with reduced mobility. The event, organised by the Totalan Town Hall and Totalan Women’s Association, aims to raise funds for her essential therapies and rehabilitation.

The walk will begin at 11am from Plaza Antonio Molina, where a donation box will be available for those who wish to contribute anonymously. Additionally, aromatic plants will be sold to further support the cause.

At approximately 12.30pm, after the walk, the donation box will be opened at the association’s headquarters, with representatives from the town council present for the official count of the funds.

Despite her big challenges, Blanca is known in Totalan for her courage and enthusiasm. She actively participates in the local events of this village, and has a deep love for music. Organisers have shared that Blanca is very excited to take part in the walk, making the event even more meaningful.

Mallorca Welcomes Imserso tourists

BALEARIC tourism is set to receive a major boost as approximately 100,000 Imserso travellers arrive between February and April 2025. According to ABACTUR, the regional association of tourism activities, February will see 37,000 visitors, March 40,000, and April 20,000. Mallorca will welcome 80 per cent of these tourists, while Ibiza and Menorca will host around 15,000 and 10,000 respectively. This influx of off-season visitors provides essential support for the local hospitality sector, ensuring that hotels, restaurants, and tour operators remain operational during quieter months. Rafael Durán, president of ABACTUR, emphasised the programme’s critical role in maintaining employment, supporting the local economy, and contributing to overall economic stability across the islands. Although Imserso tourism generally slows during autumn and winter, it experiences a resurgence in early spring. By May, as peak season begins, mainstream tourism takes over.

Costa Blanca South New world record?

ALICANTE is kicking off 2025 with a clear goal: to become the centre of attention in the global culinary world.

As Spain’s national gastronomy capital this year, the city has planned around 50 industry-related events, aiming for an economic impact of up to €22 million. Special menus, professional gatherings, and public events are on the agenda, with hopes of even setting a new Guinness World Record.

Alicante will take part in food fairs across the UK, Norway, Italy, and Germany to showcase its culinary excellence.

According to the council, the title of Gastronomy Capital could generate between €15 million and €22 million, alongside significant media exposure that is already putting the Costa Blanca in the global spotlight.

Since Spain introduced the Gastronomy Capital title in 2012, several cities have held the honour.

Costa Blanca North Art, heritage and bonfires

THE huge figures of Las Fallas de Denia will shortly be planted around the town for everyone to enjoy before their eventual cremation on March 19.

The festivities are gearing up for the main eventthe planting of the Fallas. The festival focuses on art and local heritage, there are events exploring the history of the festival and showcasing smaller effigies.

The huge statues and their smaller counterparts will be placed around the city from March 11 to March 16, visitors and residents will then have three days before the massive bonfires of Saint Joseph’s Day take over the main squares and burn the creative statues to the ground.

The celebration is a local phenomenon that dates back to the 18th century and celebrates the arrival of spring which coincides with Saint Joseph’s Day. Multiple events will take place including parades, community dinners and competitions for the best figures.

Costa Calida

Cartagena on screen

CARTAGENA’S incredible mix of history and nature will soon be showcased across Spain in a new TV documentary. Un país en bicicleta: Diario de una ciclista (A Country by Bike: A Cyclist’s Diary) will air this autumn on La 2 of Televisión Española, one of Spain’s main national TV channels, with journalist and cyclist Ainara Hernando leading viewers on a two-wheeled adventure.

The series follows Ainara as she explores Spain’s most beautiful spots, combining tourism, culture, and nature. Cartagena’s episode will feature some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Roman Theatre, the Naval Museum, and the historic port. It also highlights natural treasures like Calblanque Natural Park, Cabo Tiñoso Marine Reserve, Cala Cortina, and the stunning coastline of La Azohía.

This TV programme is designed for everyone, inviting viewers to discover Spain’s charm at a slower pace.

Homeowner fined €69,000

AN Amsterdam homeowner has learned a costly lesson after being fined €69,000 for backing out of a signed property sale agreement. The abrupt decision left the buyer facing unexpected expenses and led to a legal battle in which the courts ruled firmly in the buyer’s favour.

The property in Nieuw-West was initially sold for €470,000 in February 2024, with the transfer date set for June 3. However, just weeks before the handover, the seller requested a delay. When the buyer declined, expecting the deal to proceed as agreed, the seller simply failed to appear at the notary’s office.

Unable to finalise the purchase, the buyer incurred costs for temporary accommodation, moving expenses, and repairs to a broken heating system - totalling €22,000. Under Dutch real estate law, a signed

contract is legally binding. The penalty was calculated at 0.3 per cent of the sale price per day, accumulating to €69,000 for the 49-day delay.

The seller argued in court that they had been pressured by a relative and did not fully understand the contract due to age and limited Dutch language skills. However, the judge rejected this defence, stating that the seller should have sought legal

advice if they were uncertain.

While the €69,000 fine was upheld, the court denied an additional €22,000 in damages, noting that the penalty fee was intended to cover the buyer’s losses. The seller must also pay €5,500 in legal fees.

This case highlights the strict enforcement of property contracts in the Netherlands, serving as a reminder to understand all legal commitments before signing.

INTERVIEW

Tuomas Korhonen, Swede in FuengirolaSpeaking European

OWNER of a sports equi pment company in Finland, Tuomas travels the world and doesn’t need to be based in a specific place, and so decided to follow his wife, Sofia, to Spain.

Tuomas: I told her, to take all the time off she needs. We can go try out Spain. I have to travel anyway.

EWN: But why Fuengirola specifically?

Tuomas: It’s perfect, really. We’re 20 minutes from Malaga airport. It’s an international airport, so I can take a flight anywhere I need to be.

Sofia, Tuomas’s wife was an attorney back in Finland, but fell in love with the

Costa del Sol, and so three years later, they remain in Fuengirola.

Tuomas: We have two small kids here, of five and two. The five-year-old is already fluent in Spanish, and the two-yearold in kindergarten is learning fast.

EWN: And you? How is your Spanish coming along?

Tuomas: Well, I already speak Swedish, and of course I have learnt Finnish. I also speak Norwegian and English, and I have been learning Russian too. Now, I’m catching up with Spanish too.

EWN: Will you ever return to Finland?

Tuomas: Maybe. Who can say? For now, we are more than happy here.

Tuomas Korhonen.

Tuomas Korhonen, a multilingual Swede married to a Finn, decided to try out life in Fuengirola with their two small children for six months while his wife, Sofia was on maternity leave, and decided to stay.

Under Dutch law, a signed contract is legally binding.

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How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

Cat-friendly spaces

CAT-PROOFING your home is essential for ensuring both your feline friend’s safety and the preservation of your belongings. Cats are curious creatures, and without proper precautions, they may get into places or cause damage. Here’s how to cat-proof your home: Secure toxic items: Store cleaning supplies, medications, and any plants that are toxic to cats out of reach. Many common houseplants like lilies, ivy, and poinsettias can be harmful if ingested. Protect furniture: Cats love to scratch, so provide scratching posts or pads to redirect their attention away from your furniture. You can also apply double-sided tape on areas you want to deter scratching. Block small spaces:

Cats can squeeze into surprisingly tight spaces, so be sure to block off any small gaps between furniture, appliances, or in cabinets. Check areas such as behind

the fridge or under the sink to prevent accidental hiding or injury.

Secure cords and wires: Cats often chew on cords, which can be dangerous. Use protective covers or hide cords in cable organisers.

5. Cat-proof windows and balconies: Ensure that all windows are securely closed and that balconies have barriers to prevent your cat from slipping out or falling.

By taking these precautions, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for both you and your cat.

Diane and Mike love animals and travel by pet-sitting.

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR CONDITIONING

BUILDERS

ALMERIA BUILDERS: Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www. almeriabuilders.com (253556)

BUY & SELL

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)

WE BUY Persian carpets, fur jackets and coats, pewter and silver of all kinds 90/100/800, silver-plated cutlery, jewellery and watches of all kinds, amber, coral, coins, medals, porcelain. Inheritances and household liquidations, military until 1945, photos, medals etc. Fair price - cash Tel. 688 335 497 (312158)

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www.almeria-anglican.com Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH We meet every Sunday

at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 711 086 162 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishlegion.org.uk/ counties/spain-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email  zurgenarblchairman@gmail.com - (253989)

MOTOR FOR SALE

OTHERS

PLUMBERS

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (300424)

ESTATE AGENT

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 678 002 006 for more information (283824)

INSURANCE

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. abbeygateinsure.com

LANGUAGE CLASS

MISCELLANEOUS

GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

EDS? We have the solution, Kam agra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs.Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

VIAGRA & Cialis – Best & Cheapest in EU. Extra promotion this week! FREE delivery in 48 hours. Call/text WhatsApp +34 603 624 444 (312343)

PETS

MOTORING FOR SALE

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)

LOOKING for motorhome or caravan. Fair price paid in cash. Tel 688 335 497

WE BUY high quality vehicles, also customs. No obligation offer. Tel 688 335 497 (312158)

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €8.00, medium dogs €9.00, big dogs €10.00, cats from €7.50 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@gmail.com fivebonehotel. com (300941)

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 606 807 797 or 684 143 560 (312043)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR WIND POWER SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (300068)

Road-ready shoes

CHOOSING the right footwear for driving is essential for safety and comfort. Experts recommend shoes that offer good grip, allow precise pedal control, and remain comfortable over long periods.

Best choices:

• Trainers/Tennis Shoes: These provide a balance of comfort and grip, with rubber soles for excellent traction, and flexibility for pedal control.

• Driving Loafers: Designed specifically for driving, these shoes have thin, flexible soles for great pedal feel, and are often made of soft leather with rubber grips.

Shoes to avoid:

• Flip-flops/Sandals: These can slip off, get caught under pedals, or lack support, increasing the risk of accidents and causing discomfort during long drives.

• High Heels: High heels make it harder to apply pressure on the pedals and can get stuck, affecting safe driving.

Penalties for incorrect footwear: Although the Traffic Regulations do not expressly prohibit driving with this type of shoes, inappropriate footwear can result in fines. In Spain, drivers can be fined €80-€200 and even deduction of points on their licence if an officer considers that the footwear is unsafe and impairs their ability to control the vehicle.

When selecting footwear for driving, prioritise safety, comfort, and control, avoiding shoes that could slip off or interfere with pedal operation for a safer driving experience.

Speed camera shake-up

THE Spanish traffic authority, the DGT, is rolling out a fresh breed of mobile speed cameras - and they’re already catching out drivers across the country.

For years, fixed speed cameras have been the bane of lead-footed drivers around Spain, but the DGT is stepping up its game with the new ‘radares remolque’ - trailer-mounted speed cameras that can be deployed anywhere, anytime.

A total of 122 new radars are hitting Spain’s roads in 2025, with many of them set to be these stealthy mobile units.

These high-tech spies on wheels are battery-powered, laser-equipped, and completely wireless, meaning they don’t need a permanent power supply and can stay active for days without a human operator.

Unlike fixed cameras, which drivers can learn to avoid, these portable enforcers move around constantly, keeping motorists on their toes.

The DGT isn’t messing about - these new trailer cameras can scan multiple lanes, track cars

from long distances, and even snap multiple offenders at once. The first batch has already been spotted in Catalonia, catching out drivers on major routes like the AP-7, C-31, and B-23. And because they’re connected to the internet, fines are processed in real-time - no more waiting weeks to find out if you’ve been caught.

Unlike the static speed cameras drivers have grown used to, trailer radars can be set up in minutes and then moved elsewhere, making it nearly impossible for motorists to predict where they’ll be lurking next. Their laser technology also means they can catch speeders from incredible distances, with pinpoint accuracy.

Tesla sues drivers

TESLA over the past four years - led by Elon Musk - has taken at least six owners to court in China after they complained of alleged defects like faulty brakes or unintended acceleration. Tesla also sued six bloggers and two news outlets for negative coverage. So far, the carmaker’s won every single case that’s reached a verdict!

It’s highly unusual for automakers to sue their own buyers, but Tesla’s approach in China has silenced critical voices and deterred others from speaking out. In one case, the company demanded a whopping €640,000 (around $685,000) from a driver who claimed brake failure. Another Tesla owner said he nearly died and showed off surgery scars - but the court made him apologise and pay Tesla anyway.

A little help from powerful friends?

Analysts say Tesla’s staggering success in Chinese courts may be thanks to strong backing from senior Communist Party officials like Li Qiang, the former Shanghai party boss and now China’s premier. Under his watch, Tesla got massive tax breaks, low-interest loans and the green light to build an enormous factory in record time. Meanwhile, the

firm’s rosy coverage in Chinese media and its courtroom triumphs keep piling up. Allies in the West Musk’s influence isn’t limited to China. He’s tight with US President Donald J Trump, championing big budget cuts and helping sideline officials who once scrutinised car safety. Critics fear Musk’s political sway could shield Tesla from further government oversight on both sides of the Pacific.

DGT’s sneaky new ‘trailer traps’ are already nabbing drivers.

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

IT’S sometimes easy to forget, when so many companies offer SUVs, that amongst the newer entrants to the SUV market there are some manufacturers who have some long serving models. BMW is a case in point with their X3. It has been in the sales brochures since 2003 and remains hugely popular amongst mid-sized SUV buyers. It’s easy to see why as it offers space, practicality and, despite having the usual boxy SUV design, has more than a dash of style.

In its latest form the range offers plug-in hybrid along with petrol and diesel options that have mild hybrid assistance. Prices start from €59,727/£49,495 with three trim levels - X-Line, M Sport and M models.

BMW X3 - as you would expect, refined and smooth

Power largely comes from 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines in three power outputs, 199PS diesel, 210PS and 303PS petrol and a six-cylinder 3.0-litre petrol developing 398 hp. Performance ranges from 7.8 seconds to just 4.6 seconds to the benchmark 62 mph. All versions come with either mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid with the latter offering a stated 55 miles pure electric driving depending on driving style and conditions.

Even being pessimistic about pure electric range the X3 figure suggests

Facts at a Glance

Model: BMW X3 20 xDrive M Sport

Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol, all-wheel-drive, 48v mild hybrid assistance, developing 153kW/208hp

Gears: 8-speed Automatic

Price: €61,900/£51,295

Performance: 0-100kph/62mph 7.8 seconds 215kph/134 mph max’ speed

Economy: 7.2l per 100km/39.2 mpg

Emissions: 162g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

most drivers would complete an urban commute on pure electric power. With a home charger that’s economical commuting, whether to work or on the school run. It’s also worth remembering that if you don’t have access to a home charger then PHEVs by their nature don’t take very long to charge. Therefore, unlike a full EV you’re not waiting at the charging point drinking coffee and buying unnecessary snacks! There’s also no range anxiety.

Standard fare on the X3 is good, although like all German marques those additional ticks in the option boxes can prove costly. Power tailgate, air conditioning, LED headlights, power front sports seats, wireless phone charging and cruise control are amongst the standard features across the range.

The X3 drives as you would expect of a BMW, refined, smooth and, even at its lowest power output, with verve when your right foot prods the accelerator. It’s a comfortable ride and despite its size handling is very decent too. The interior is not so much of a success in this writer’s view. It no longer feels special as BMWs once did, with a material quality that could have come from any mid-range car maker. Thankfully you also buy a BMW for the driving experience, and even in entry level form the X3 still delivers.

Everton’s new home

TEN THOUSAND Everton fans got a cosmic first look at the £750m Bramley-Moore Dock stadium.

A freezing Monday night on the banks of the Mersey was turned into a starry-eyed spectacle for 10,000 lucky scousers this week, as the Toffees unveiled their brandnew, £750 million stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. After four years of graft and grafting, Everton fans were finally treated to a taste of the future during an under-18s friendly

against Wigan - and judging by the buzz on the Dock Road, it’s a future Evertonians can’t wait to embrace.

Everton’s shiny new ground will be home sweet home for the 2025-26 season. With an estimated construction bill of more than £750m, it’s not just a stadium - it’s a statement of intent that will send shockwaves across the city. That ambition is shared by supporters young and old. Everyone is excited. It will be sad to leave Goodison Park,

but when fans see this, they’ll know it’s for a good reason. If Goodison Park was once the beating heart of Everton, this new, modern fortress is set to send pulses racing like never before. After braving the cold for their first peek, fans can only dream of the electrifying atmospheres to come. And if that initial friendly is any sign, the Toffees will be well and truly unwrapped, ready to serve up a feast of football in their Mersey masterpiece.

Kean collapses

EX-PREMIER LEAGUE forward Moise Kean caused a major scare during Fiorentina’s match against Hellas Verona when he collapsed on the pitch after a head injury. The incident occurred in the second half as Kean clashed with Pawel Dawidowicz and Diego Coppola, taking an accidental knee to the head.

Despite receiving treatment for a cut above his left eye, Kean briefly returned to the game. However, moments later, he collapsed with no one around him, prompting immediate concern. Medical staff and teammates rushed to assist him, and he was stretchered off the field before being transported to the hospital. Fiorentina later confirmed that Kean had suffered head trauma and would remain under observation while undergoing further tests.

The unsettling scenes overshadowed the final moments of the match at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi. When play resumed, Verona secured a last-gasp 1–0 victory through Antoine Bernede’s stoppa-

ge-time goal. Fiorentina, currently sixth in Serie A and five points away from the top four, released a statement to reassure fans about Kean’s condition, expressing hopes for his swift recovery.

Kean joined Fiorentina from Juventus in the summer, signing a five-year contract until 2029. His impact has been immediate, with 19 goals in 29 appearances this season. Before returning to Italy, Kean played for Everton in the Premier League, scoring twice in 32 matches. The Italian international’s health is now the priority, with fans and the club hopeful for his safe and speedy return to the pitch.

BRAND NEW STADIUM: It’s out of this world.

Moise Kean, seen here playing for Juventus, was recently rushed to hospital after collapsing on the pitch during Fiorentina’s clash with Hellas Verona.

Credit: By Rob Farrow, CC BY-SA 2.0