Mallorca stands by Valencia
Aurelia Muñoz
SINCE the DANA disaster, both the Balearic Government and the people of Mallorca have been fully committed to supporting those affected in Valencia.
On Sunday November 3, the Balearic Islands dispatched a contingent of 64 personnel along with rescue supplies to assist in the aftermath. The team comprised four technicians from the Dirección General de Emergencias, three volunteers, 17 personnel from the Dirección General de Medio Natural y Gestión Forestal, four SAMU061 technicians, 20 members of the Mallorca Fire Brigade, 12 from the Palma Fire Department, and five from the Ibiza Fire Department. They travelled with an extensive fleet, including a heavy rural pump, a logistics and emergency support unit, four light all-terrain vehicles, and a command vehicle to provide aid to the hardest-hit areas in Valencia.
THE DANA storm in Mallorca at the end of last week primarily impacted the Ponent area and the Tramuntana mountains.
A total of 87 emergency cases were managed across the island, while the fire service carried out 42 interventions, mostly in Llucmajor, Bunyola, and Calvià.
In the Tramuntana, the Bunyola torrent reached its capacity limit, roads in the Palmayola area were flooded and the Torrent de Soller stained the coastline due to the high speed of the water it was carrying.
Palma Airport faced significant delays and cancellations on Friday November 1, a day when 690 flights were schedu-
Furthermore, the Balearic Island President, Marga Prohens, announced that €1 million has been allocated for the purchase of essential goods, managed through the Federación de Municipios y Provincias de Valencia to facilitate the purchase of essential supplies. The president also highlighted the collaborative efforts of
businesses, such as Hiper Centro for providing food supplies for the contingent, and Balearia for facilitating transport.
From the outset, the people of Mallorca have shown remarkable solidarity, offering individual financial support and coordinating shipments of essential supplies and food.
DANA aftermath
Associations like Mallorca Inca Solidaria have led collection efforts, with numerous businesses stepping forward as collection and distribution points. Additionally, Moviment Mallorquinista, a group formed by RCD Mallorca fans, rallied supporters to gather food donations at the Son Moix sports centre for three days.
Rental reality
MORE than half of the tourist rental listings in Mallorca on various online platforms are suspected of being fraudulent.
According to data from the Consell for September, out of 43,426 homes advertised, 23,030 are identified as potentially fraudulent or showing signs of fraud. This leaves only 10,710 officially licensed rentals.
Councillor for Tourism, Marcial Rodríguez, noted, “There is a problem of disordered supply that is causing significant harm. We are working on developing tools to address this issue. It is clear that we cannot grow indefinitely; it is impossible.”
The reported data comes from a new technological tool launched by the Consell, designed to monitor all rental ads appearing on platforms like Airbnb and Booking monthly, specifically focusing on accommodations in Mallorca.
The councillor also announced a new agreement with major websites on the island, seeking their assistance in identifying illegal tourist listings.
led, with over 3,000 flights planned across the long weekend.
The most critical issue was the risk of three torrents overflowing: Sa Riera near Palma’s mouth, Es Saluet, and Es Galatzó in Santa Ponça.
The Balearic Government issued warnings to residents forbidden the access to parks, and fortunately, no serious incidents occurred.
Mallorca • Issue No. 2053 • 7 - 13 Nov 2024 FREE
Palma Fire Department loading food supplies.
Photo: Facebook/Ajuntament de Palma
Photo: CAIB
Addressing Dana in the Balearic Islands.
Vehicle entry limit
Aurelia Muñoz
THE Consell de Mallorca proposes to limit the number of vehicles on the island to address the ongoing road congestion, which is exacerbated by an influx of rental cars during high season.
To assess the situation, the Consell has released a study examining the island’s road capacity.
Findings from the study indicate that the current volume of vehicles exceeds sustainable levels by between approximately 93,599 to 122,397 cars, suggesting that the ideal cap should fall between 834,263 and 863,061 vehicles.
According to data from Cinesi, a consultancy which specialises in mobility and transport, 379,628 vehicles entered Mallorca in 2023, a 108 per cent increase from 2017.
The report also reveals that tourist activity significantly contributes to daily journeys: between Palma and Calvia alone, tourists generate an average of 27,085 trips per day.
For overall traffic (including residents and tourists), the busiest routes are between Palma and Marratxi, with an average of 131,887 daily trips, followed by Palma-Calvia with 101,798, and Palma-Llucmajor with 75,009.
Given these figures, the Consell is considering three key measures.
The first measure: to limit vehicle entry through ports. The second: to cap the number of rental vehicles permitted on the island.
The third: to introduce a seasonal surcharge on vehicles not registered for road tax in the Balearics. Finally, the Consell notes that similar vehicle limit is already in place in Formentera and hopes that the Balearic Government will approve similar measures for Mallorca.
Manacor deluge
Adam Woodward
EMERGENCY services attended more than 100 incidents in and around the port of Manacor in Mallorca due to flash flooding.
Seasonal heavy rains dumped heavy amounts of water all across the Iberian peninsula, but the Balearic Islands were particularly badly hit. In the port of Manacor, Mallorca, such has been the intensity of the rain that restaurant terrace furniture was blown out into the waters and boats were left worryingly close to being dragged out to sea.
Close to 100 emergency calls were recorded, and some emergency vehicles became trapped themselves stuck in the flood waters.
Many drivers were left stranded in their
vehicles by flash flooding blocking roads, while in Manacor itself, more than 120 litres per square metre dropped on the town. ‘The night has become very long,’ said one local.
Both owners of bars and restaurants and boat owners spent most of the day on Tuesday, October 29, trying to recover what they could in the wake of the deluge, and even alarms were set off at the airport. On the morning of Monday 28, seven roads were cut off by floodwaters.
One of the most serious cases reported was a vehicle trapped on the road between Campos and Colonia de Sant Jordi, flooding at the Rafa Nadal Academy, and torrenting floodwaters rushing through the abattoir surroundings in Manacor.
Photo: EWN.
Morning traffic on the Ma-13.
Licence exchanges
VIRGINIA WESTHEAD, a dual-qualified British solicitor and Spanish abogada, gave a talk on exchanging British driving licences for Spanish ones, something that thanks to a bilateral agreement between the Spanish and British governments is still possible.
An agreement between the Spanish and British governments came into force on March 16, 2023, regarding UK drivers in Spain and Spanish drivers in the UK.
It allows both governments to exchange licence details on disqualifica tions and points.
There had been a period of time pre viously when some drivers were unable to exchange their licences, forcing some to have to retake a driving test in Spanish.
In May of 2024, a new appointment system was brought in which requires a digital certificate installed on a computer or registration in the Clave Pin system.
While any DGT centre anywhere in the country can be chosen, appointments run out very quickly, and it is advisable to be online at 8am when the new appointment calendar is refreshed.
Virginia highlighted the importance of checking for spelling mistakes in names and addresses,
as an error noticed afterwards will mean that the applicant will have to go through the whole process again.
Many of the categories for heavier vehicles rather than standard cars will be automatically lost from the UK licence exchanged to the Spanish licence. The standard B licence however does cover motorhome drivers up to vehicles of 3.5 tonnes.
Safe e-scooter use
WITH e-scooters becoming a common sight across Spain, the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has launched a campaign to encourage safer riding practices. As these electric scooters gain popularity, especially in big cities, incidents and traffic violations have also risen.
The campaign highlights common violations that put riders and others at risk, such as riding on pavements, not using helmets, and carrying passengers. These behaviours not only endanger the riders but also pedestrians, particularly in busy urban areas. By raising awareness of traffic rules and potential hazards, the DGT hopes to reduce these risky practices and encourage safer habits.
The DGT reinforces key safety guidelines for
e-scooter use. Riders are reminded that scooters are allowed only on roads and cycle paths, while riding on pavements or in pedestrian areas is strictly prohibited. Though helmets are not always mandatory, they are highly recommended to reduce injury risk. Additionally, carrying passengers is not allowed, and riders should stick to a speed limit of 25 km/h. Adhering to local traffic signs and signals
is also essential.
This campaign supports Spain’s broader goal of promoting sustainable urban mobility. E-scooters provide an eco-friendly alternative to cars, helping to ease congestion and reduce emissions. By promoting safer riding practices, the DGT aims to support both road safety and the longterm viability of e-scooters as a sustainable transport option in Spain.
Get your TIE
NATHANIEL AMOS, representative of the UK Foreign Office, spoke to an audience of 200 British expats on the new Entry/Exit System (EES) and why it is important that UK residents have a TIE identity card, as many still don’t.
According to the British Embassy, in June of 2024, 200,000 British residents in Spain still had not exchanged their old green ID cards for the new biometric TIE identity cards.
With the new EES system coming in, travelling anywhere out of the Schengen area, Brits without a TIE could suffer big problems trying to return.
EES is an automated system which will replace passport stamping and will be run by the EU in order to make the external Schengen border more secure.
It records people’s biometric data and is currently due to go live in early 2025.
For those registered living in Spain, you are exempt from the EES system only if you are a holder of a TIE card, which already contains biometric data. Without a TIE, Brits will be put into the EES system which could be problematic because an automatic calculator will start ticking and the system will think you have outstayed your welcome in Spain.
In a worst-case scenario, it could mean a Schengen travel ban and a court case to return to Spain again. For this reason, Amos urged those who have not got a TIE yet, to do so quickly.
Storm damage claims
STORMS and heavy rains have caused havoc across the country, especially in Andalucia, Castilla de la Mancha, and Valencia.
Apart from the heartbreaking tragedy, many homes and cars were affected by flooding and falling tree branches. Who pays for it all?
Generally, insurers consider ‘extraordinary risks’ those caused by natural phenomena, from floods to hurricanes, earthquakes, etc, as well as damage caused by acts of terrorism, and not something covered in their policies. However, all is not lost. The Consorcio de Compensación de Seguros (Insurance Compensation Consortium), a public body that works as an insurer for these claims caused by extraordinary events, but only if the claimant alre-
ady has an insurance policy on the property with a private insurer. So, if the owner of a vehicle, for example, has their insurance up to date, it will be the Consorcio that pays compensation for storm damage.
In any case, the particular insurance policy should always be reviewed first to ensure who is responsible for compensating for the damage. In some comprehensive insurance policies, policy holders may be entitled to compensation, and the claim would be quicker.
In the areas most affected by the October storms, the government declared these be considered ‘zonas catastroficas’, and therefore a claim made to the Consorcio de Compensación de Seguros should theoretically be much more agile. www.consorseguros.es.
Driving in Spain.
The campaign encourages safe and sustainable e-scooter use.
Tree damage.
Pere Garau honoured
THE Pere Garau Market in Palma has been honoured at the first gala of the Confederación de Mercados Tra dicionales de España in Sevilla, receiving an award for the best collective commercial initiative. The Confederación highlights the market as a notable success story and suggests it could serve as a model for revitalising other markets facing challenges.
At present, only one stall remains available for rent at Pere Garau, a remarkable turnaround, as just a year ago, 14 stalls were va cant, putting the market’s viability at risk. Thanks to a carefully implemented strategic plan, the market has been able to reopen most of the stalls,
drawing in new traders and offering a wider variety of products.
Pere Garau has resisted the trend of becoming a gastronomic market, instead remaining committed to providing fresh, high-quality ingredients, from local Mallorcan produce to gourmet items. The market’s success is also built on the strong bond between vendors and the local community, where the tradition of shopping at the market on Thursdays and Saturdays remains alive. Residents welcome the dedication and investment that have revitalised their neighbourhood market.
Open-air market days at Pere Garau are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings.
THE 13th Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) concluded with record-breaking attendance at its closing gala this week, featuring the Spanish premiere of Widow Clicquot. Hosted at Palma’s Palau de Congressos, the festival celebrated the best in global and local cinema, attracting over 5,000 in-person attendees and 13,000 online viewers via Bitpix. This year’s programme included 144 films, such as Amanece en Samaná, Los Frikis, and
the environmental documentary 2040. EMIFF’s professional events included masterclasses by Anthony Dod Mantle and Asif Kapadia, alongside a new ‘Script Lab’ for emerging filmmakers.
During the closing gala, Jessica Hausner received the Evolution Vision Award, expressing hopes to inspire more women in film. Los Frikis, by Michael Schwartz and Tyler Nilson, was named Best International Feature,
while Alonso Ruizpalacios won Best Director for La Cocina.
The evening concluded with the Spanish premiere of Widow Clicquot, directed by Thomas Napper, who reflected, “Champagne symbolises both beginnings and endings.” EMIFF also presented 24 awards, including Best Performances to Saoirse Ronan (The Outrun) and Nahuel Pérez Biscayart (El Jockey), and Best Debut Feature to Jupiter by Benjamin Pfohl.
WHAT a great milestone for hiking in Mallorca!
The Council of Mallorca has confirmed it has now achieved a significant milestone by completing the homologation of the 137 km Dry Stone Route.
This route is one of the most iconic on the island and traverses the Tramuntana range, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With this project, the entire route is now equipped with official signage. This improvement enhances safety, accessibility, and orientation for all hikers.
The Dry Stone Route takes hikers through unique historical and natural sites. It features charming towns, dry stone walls, shelters, and traditional paths that connect the mountain range from end to end.
The process has been carried out with a focus on environmental preservation and respect for the cultural and natural heritage of the area.
Town hall tours
13th EMIFF success Trail triumph
ON the second Sunday of each month, Palma Town Hall opens its doors to the public, offering guided tours in Catalan and Spanish.
Situated in Plaza Cort, Palma Town Hall was constructed between 1649 and 1680 by architects Pere Bauçá, Miquel Oliver, and Bartomeu Calafat. The building is renowned for its striking Baroque façade and its iconic clock, the Rellotge d’en Figuera.
Two tours are offered on each open day: one at 11.00am in Catalan and another at 12.00pm in Spanish. As capacity is limited to 20 visitors per tour, advance booking is required.
Tours are not available in August.
Reservations can be made by telephone on (+34) 616 414 536 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 2.00pm, and Wednesdays from 4.00pm to 8.00pm) or by email at inscripciones@arquitectives.com. Please specify ‘Visits to Cort’ in the subject line when booking by email.
Palma Town Hall.
Thomas Napper, Jessica Hausner and Sandra Lipski.
Photo: Facebook/Ajuntament de Palma
The councillor of Palma Town Hall, Llorenç Bauzà, and the president of the ‘placers’ of Pere Garau, Paquita Bonnín.
Photo: Ajuntament de Palma
Photo: Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival
Unemployment jolt
UNEMPLOYMENT
in the Balearic Islands rose by 6.9 per cent from July to September 2024, reaching 14.5 per cent, according to the latest Active Population Survey (EPA) for the third quarter.
This contrasts with a national decrease of 4.9 per cent, bringing total unemployment in Spain to 2,754,100.
The Balearic Islands reported 43,500 unemployed people in the third quarter, a 6.9 per cent year-on-year increase. The Construction sector saw the largest rise in unemployment (135.3 per cent), while unemployment in the Industry sector fell by 53.3 per cent, and the Services sector experienced a 13.3 per cent increase.
Currently, unemployment in the Balearics stands at 6.2 per cent, nearly five percentage points below the national average of 11.2 per cent.
Employment in the Balearics grew by 0.9 per cent from June to September, below the national average increase of 1.8 per cent, bringing total employment in the region to 661,200 people.
Supporting Valencia
SOS MAMAS Baleares Conhort, a Mallorcan NGO dedicated to providing social assistance and meal services to families facing exclusion or at risk of it since 2011, has launched an urgent appeal for help to support those affected by the recent DANA floods in Valencia.
In response to the flooding, the NGO, in collaboration with Grupo de Rescate Balear, has established a collection service for essential supplies such as food, cleaning products, and sanitary and hygiene materials. Donations can be dropped off at their main headquarters on Carrer de Conhort in Palma and other collection points across the island, including the Cas Xteco cultural centre in the village of Consell.
A particular focus of the appeal is on the collection of masks, gumboots, and protective gloves - critical items needed to safeguard
against infectious diseases from contaminated floodwaters.
The campaign has seen significant success, boosted by the viral reach of SOS MAMAS’s social media channels and support from the local community and the shipping company Trasmediterránea.
Through their Instagram account, SOS MAMAS Baleares Conhort urges everyone to contribute, regardless of personal circumstances, either by making donations or helping to sort donations by type.
As they put it on their Instagram: “todos somos parte de una cadena” (we are all part of a chain).
You can support SOS MAMAS Baleares Conhort by following them on Instagram at #fundacionsosmamasconhort or contacting them via WhatsApp on (+34) 660 539 352.
Alaro and Consell volunteers in Cas Txeco.
Photo:
Construction sector saw an increase.
British couple found dead
A BRITISH couple, reported missing were found dead in their car following the fatal flooding in Valencia and have been formally identified.
Don Turner aged 78 and Terri Turner aged 74 had not made contact with their family or friends since the heavy downpours and there were growing concerns about their safety. The worst was confirmed when the couple were found entrapped lifeless in their car on Saturday.
Ruth O’Loughlin, the couple’s daughter from Bruntwood, Staffordshire described how they had set out to buy gas together and that when she didn’t hear from them, she could only hope that they were waiting for rescuers. Ms O’Loughlin went onto describe their harrowing final moments. She relayed how she didn’t know how her retired
parents, who lived near Pedralba, had died but that the only reassuring detail was that they were together. Like many people across Spain, the retired couple’s two daughters, Renee Turner and Ruth O’Loughlin, expressed that they were “extremely angry” at the local authorities and the Spanish government following the death of their beloved parents. They account for two of the 216 people who have lost their lives so far in the tragic flooding that struck last week, following the storm.
On Thursday, Ms O’Loughlin was informed her parents’ pet dogs had been found at their home but not her parents. Speaking about the incident, she sobbed: “Not just our parents, so many people have died in this tragedy, and it is absolutely tragic.” She added: “It should not have happened, not at all.”
Italy’s biggest bank going digital
INTESA SANPAOLO, Italy’s largest bank, has revealed plans to shift to a digital-first model, prompting significant changes in its workforce. Nearly 10 per cent of employees are expected to leave voluntarily by 2027, with the bank offering early retirement and a solidarity fund for about 4,000 workers. This restructuring is projected to save €500 million annually from 2028, following a one-time €350 million charge in late 2024.
While job cuts are part of the plan, Intesa Sanpaolo will recruit 3,500 new staff in commercial and advisory roles, focusing on digital and AI-driven customer solutions to enhance service efficiency.
In addition to its
digital push, Intesa Sanpaolo has partnered with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to boost wind energy projects critical to Europe’s green transition.
EIB Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti emphasised wind energy’s role in energy independence and industrial competitiveness, stating, “This agreement shows how the EIB’s risk-sharing instruments help finance key projects for de -
carbonisation.”
Mauro Micillo, head of Intesa’s IMI Corporate and Investment Banking division, echoed the importance of this renewable energy focus, noting it aligns with both national and European green objectives.
Italy’s digital banking trend mirrors a wider shift in Europe, as Spain, for instance, reports over five million digital banking users – a huge surge.
The British couple were found dead inside their car like many other flood victims. Credit:X:@feebateman
Intesa Sanpaolo’s plans to digitalise.
A nation pulls together
SPAIN’S Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly announced that €10.6 billion worth of aid will be sent to regions a icted by the recent ooding in Valencia following the storms.
In the rst press brie ng since the crisis ood struck, a ecting several regions of Valen-cia, Pedro Sánchez stressed the government’s commitment to providing a swift re-sponse to the tragedy and devastation witnessed by so many.
The massive aid package aims to administer crucial relief to the a ected communities where there was huge devastation to infrastructure including bridges, roads and buildings. Many people are currently without homes or adequate facilities including water and gas supply, and are seeking refuge in local towns and villages.
Local authorities from around the nation have sent emergency help, search and res-
cue professionals, and re ghters to help in the location of survivors and the clean-up cam-paign. At the same time, 15,000 volunteers travelled from all over the country to aid in rescue missions carrying donations of food, blankets and fresh water. Thousands of campaigns have been set up around the country collecting everything the survivors need from clothes and linen to school accessories, all having been lost in the terrible events of the last days of October.
President Sánchez’s relief package comes after Carlos Mazón, President of the Valencian Generalitat (regional government) heavily criticised him for a lack of urgency and underestimating on the amount of initial aid provided. Sánchez has defended the complaints raised against him, claiming that emergency services, including 15,000 personnel were fully prepared and ready to mobilise.
King Charles’ profits
A RECENT investigation by Channel 4’s Dispatches, has shed light on the nancial dealings of the British royal family. Here’s a breakdown of the ndings that have raised questions about royal nances.
The Duchy of Lancaster - a private estate of land, property and other assets owned by the Sovereign - rents out a warehouse to Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. For 15 years of use, the total rental fee is £11.4 million (€13.54 million). This cost is a signi cant burden on an alreadynancially strained NHS. Beyond the NHS, the Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall have secured several deals with other public services, totalling at least £50 million (€59.7 million). The Ministry of Justice pays
£37.5 million (€44.8 million) over 25 years to use Dartmoor prison, though the facility currently remains empty.
In Devon, a primary school is paying £300,000 (€358,743) in a long-term lease with the Duchy of Cornwall, while another school near Bath pays £60,000 (€71,749) over a 25-year term.
The Duchies also charge the Ministry of Defence for training access to Dartmoor land, despite King Charles’
role as head of the Armed Forces and Prince William’s position as a lieutenant colonel in the British Army.
The investigation further reveals that even charitable organisations associated with the royal family are being charged millions in rent.
Currently, the Duchies are exempt from corporation taxes due to their private status, even though they generate substantial income from public funds.
Pedro Sánchez has announced a €10.6bn aid package will be sent to Valencia regions.
King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Your
VOICE
Do you think obtaining Spanish residency should be easier?
SPAIN’S government will bring in changes to regularise citizens without proper residency permission. The exact date is not yet clarified, but Thursday, November 12 is the day most touted.
Based on the concept of arraigo, or ‘roots’, the new legislation coming in looks to regularise the legal residential status of those foreigners in Spain without the permission to be and work. The new rules aim to ensure those with a genuine link to Spain, such as for work or family ties, get to stay.
The new legal text will be much more flexible and turn a blind eye to those who have been living or working in Spain without legal permission.
Not just anybody will be granted legal status in Spain, however. The government is looking specifically at those who have some sort of roots here, whether through family, marriage, or work. All applicants need to demonstrate is that they have been in Spain for two years and do not have a criminal record in their home country.
However, as Benalmadena lawyer and immigration expert Jorge Postigo points out, applicants will also need a basic level of Spanish to demonstrate their sincere link to Spain.
According to Jorge Postigo, those wishing to regularise their residential status should enquire without any fear of legal complications at their nearest council foreigners office to find out exactly what documents they need to present once the
Anger halts royal visit!
KING FELIPE VI, his wife Letizia, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and representatives of the Valencian autonomous government were met with extreme opposition as protestors and enraged civilians shouted insults and threw objects at the party.
Earlier this morning, the King and his wife; Pedro Sánchez and members of the Generalitat Valenciana (Valencian government) - including President Carlos Mázon and delegate, Pilar Bernabé - visited the most devastated municipality in the region: Paiporta, in the metropolitan area of Valencia City.
In a turn of events, hundreds of people gathered at the arrival of the esteemed party throwing mud and insulting the leaders, especially Pedro Sánchez. According to reports, the Prime Minister was attacked with a spade, as people chanted “Murderers” and “Pedro Sánchez, where are you?” after Spain suffered one of its worst natural catastrophes in history.
new law comes into effect.
Unsurprisingly, we received a large number of comments on this highly debatable topic, with many of mixed opinions.
Some, such as Chris, were concerned that they would get into trouble as of a result of having lived and worked ‘off the books’ as it were, and beyond their 90 days limitation. It’s not certain exactly what the new text will look like, but according to lawyer Jorge Postigo, this will likely be another ‘amnesty’ similar to the one Spanish former president Zapatero made several years ago when he offered to naturalise many of those without the correct residency papers.
David C was interested in what bearing the new rules would have on those who had second homes in Spain. The answer to that is that the new law will only contemplate those who have been continuously living in Spain for over two years.
Kerry H was wondering if the new rules would enable her to gain residency to care for her elderly parents. Again, it’s not certain yet, but according to Jorge Postigo, it will be one element taken into account when applying for residency. In fact, demonstrating family roots or a link to Spain, is the very basis of the new initiative.
Catherine K asked “Why should it become easier? It’s very difficult to become a Canadian citizen, I expected the same here.”
As emergency services work tirelessly to rescue victims and bodies from the wreckage, many Spanish citizens are outraged at how the disaster has been managed, namely the lack of warning, before torrential rains took hold of several municipalities across Valencia, creating mass devastation and over 200 deaths.
Despite being bombarded by insults and violence directed at the royal family and at political leaders, the King and his wife, withstood the seething crowds, and tried to instil calm. Meanwhile, Pedro Sánchez was forced to evacuate the area and take refuge. The King had decided to maintain his visit to Chiva, another severely floodhit muncipality in the región - expecting an equally unwelcome entry into the municipality. However, the visit was later cancelled due to extreme risk.
The King tries to calm angry crowds during visit to Paiporta, Valencia.
Christmas lunch
Aurelia Muñoz
AGE CONCERN Mallorca, a not-for-profit charitable organisation caring for the over 50s English-speaking resident community in Mallorca, is now accepting reservations for its Christmas Party Lunch. The event will take place on Saturday November 30, at 1.30pm.
The chosen venue for this year is the conveniently located Harrys Bistro in Santa Ponsa and it consists of three-course lunch, including ½ bottle wine and water per person. En-
tertainment by Wonderful Izzy, surprises and Santas raffle.
The price per person is €45 and reservations are accepted exclusively by email to mallorca@age concern.org.es. Payments should be received before November 21 into the bank account ES84 0061 0139 0100 9175 0116 (account name: Age Concern Mallorca/ Banca March, Santa Ponsa).
For group bookings of six/eight people, the full amount for all attendees
must be paid upfront, and menu choices need to be submitted along with the reservation. As reservations are limited, they will be treated on a first come first served basis and must be accompanied by the bank transaction slip. Menu Choices.
Starters: Carrot or Chicken Soup, Prawn Cocktail, Spring Roll chilli dip.
Main: Roast Turkey all the trimmings.
Dessert: Strawberry Cheesecake with Cream or Ice Cream, Christmas Pudding.
Age Concern Mallorca office opens in Son Espases Hospital on Fridays from 10.30 am to 13.00 pm, however, appointments are highly recommended on (+34) 678 352 040 or by email mallorca@agecon cern.org.es.
MALLORCA
SOUTH AFRICAN DJ and music producer Themba Mbongeni Nkosi performs live at Amok, S’Aranjassa, on Saturday November 9 as part of his 2024 tour.
After touring in Mexico, Canada and Barcelona, Themba will delight fans of house and techno music in Mallorca with some of his best-known hits including Aya, Disappear and Cure
My Desire (feat. Clementine Douglas).
Formerly known as Euphonik, Themba burst onto the global dance scene in 2018 in Ibiza with a distinctive dance sound that combines African roots and incorporates singers, songwriters and percussionists into his tracks.
Supporting his local community, Themba has been
involved in several mentoring music programmes and has been made an ambassador for the Bridges for Music charity in South Africa.
The venue will open its doors at 11.00pm and will end at 6.00am. Tickets from €15 with free drink included before 1.00am can be booked at amokmallorca. com.
Ding Dong Tour
TENNESSEE is set to take the stage on Friday, November 8, for their ‘Ding Dong Tour’ at La Movida - Café Concierto in Palma.
Known for their versatility and Rock and Roll style, Tennessee promises a toe-tapping night filled with Swing, Rock and Roll, and Doo-Wop, alongside their own songs and adapted versions of classics from the 50s and 60s.
The band achieved significant success in the late 80s, releasing four consecutive albums, and selling nearly two million records. After a six-year hiatus, they reunited in 2004, launching ‘El Regreso’, which included rerecorded hits and led to further projects.
Doors open at 9.30pm and the show begins at 10.00pm. Tickets are available in advance for €22 or at the box office on the night for €25. Online tickets can be purchased from entradium.com
For more information, call (+34) 627 961 687 La Movida is located at Carrer Albó, s/n, Ponent, 07014 Palma.
Photo:/www.ageconcernmallorca.org
Photo: facebook/Themba
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Fewer jabs
GSK shares fell owing to a “disappointing” demand for its vaccines during the third quarter of this year. The pharmaceutical group saw sales that were less robust than it expected for its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and shingles jabs, with shares tumbling by 3.19 per cent to £14.05 (€16.78) on October 30.
Grifols setback
SHARES in Barcelona-based pharmaceuticals company Grifols saw a fall of 5.4 per cent at one point on October 28 following a possible delay in Brookfield’s proposed 75 per cent takeover. Sources close to the deal said that the Canadian company was encountering difficulties in raising the necessary €9.5 billion.
Lidl grows
LIDL announced that it intends to open another 10 stores in the UK before Christmas while planning to sell 12 new shops in a leaseback deal worth approximately £70 million (€83.6 million). The German supermarket chain now has a 7.6 per cent share of the market, not far behind Morrisons’ 8.6 per cent share.
More homes
BLACKSTONE and Santander are selling their jointly-owned Talent Tower in Madrid for €35 million, seeking a buyer for the 1994 building that is currently the headquarters of the Manpower human resources company. The project envisages turning the 12-storey office block in Avenida de Burgos into apartments.
Look east
BARCLAYS may return to Saudi Arabia after having left in 2014, its chief executive CS Venkatakrishnan told Bloomberg that Barclays would consider corporate banking focusing on investment banking, attracted by Saudi Arabia’s trillion-dollar economic plan, Vision 30.
STAT OF WEEK
€2.39 billion
paid by Inditex, owner of the Zara, Massimo Dutti and Bershka labels, in its second dividend for the 2023 financial year of €0.77 per share.
Landmark car-loan ruling
BANCO SANTANDER announced its quarterly results on October 29 but Santander UK delayed releasing its own.
The holdup was the UK division’s response to a Court of Appeal decision on October 25 which concluded that the bank had mis-sold vehicle finance by paying commission on car loans to dealers.
The appeal judges said consumers should know beforehand “all the material facts” that could influence their decision on taking out a loan. These facts included the commission paid to car dealers and the way this was calculated.
After the tribunal ruled that it was illegal for banks to pay commission without the borrower’s knowledge, City analysts predicted that the test case could cost Santander UK £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion).
AFTER three years as CaixaBank chairman, Jose Ignacio Goirigolzarri resigned on October 30. He will be substituted by Tomas Muniesa, currently vice-chairman of the CaixaBank board and appointee of La Caixa Foundation, which owns 31 per cent of the bank.
The European Central Bank (BCE) favours separating the chair and chief executive roles, unlike many Spanish banks, where the chairperson holds executive powers and the CEO handles dayto-day business.
Angel Simon, chief executive of
Meanwhile, Santander UK is reviewing the court ruling which is also likely to influence a current investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority and
eventually oblige other banks to compensate car-loan customers.
The bank said that it was not “practicable” to estimate the extent of a future financial impact, but commented that the ruling went further than was necessary under UK rules.
“However,” it added, “Santander UK Group Holdings PLC is taking time to consider the judgment and the potential exposure it creates for the Santander UK Group.”
Lloyds, which on October 28 said it was assessing the potential impact of the decision, has already allocated £450 million (€538.8 million) to cover future compensation although insiders said this could reach £1.5 billion (€1.8 billion).
The same ruling could also cost Barclays approximately £357 million (€427.6 million).
Changes at the top
CriteriaCaixa, the holding company that is CaixaBank’s principal
Slow start On target
NATURGY, formerly Gas Fenosa, posted a €1.58 billion profit for the first nine months of 2024 and confirmed a €1.8 billion profit target for the year.
It now expects debts of €12.8 million instead of a predicted €13 million, with investments of €2.4 billion, not €2.6 billion as foreseen.
The energy company also said that it would reveal an “ambitious” new strategy in February 2025, together with 2024’s net results.
MASMOVIL and Orange merged on April, expecting lower costs, increased revenue, more jobs and more clients for the new company, Masorange.
Despite chief executive Meinrad Spender’s predictions, turnover until the end of September increased to €5.46 billion, only 0.5 per cent up on the same period in 2023. The company is also negotiating 650 redundancies.
After seven months of existence Masorange lost 328,000 broadband and mobile customers to rivals but still expected to save roughly €500 million over the coming years.
It had already saved €85 million of the €100 million target for 2024, and its €2 billion pre-tax profits had improved by 7.5 per cent, the merged company said.
HSBC’S third quarter profits grew 10 per cent to £6.5 billion (€7.8 billion), driving up shares 3 per cent to a six-year high.
Announcing the figures, Georges Elhedery, HSBC’s chief executive, insisted that dividing the UK and Hong Kong operations did not herald a complete breakup.
Plans were not an intention or preparation for any type of split, Elhedery added, and did not include more spinoffs. “This is a matter of streamlining. There is no geopolitical reason why we have done this,” Elhedery stressed.
NEXT’S profits should top £1 billion (€1.19 billion) this year for the first time, despite competition from China’s Shein.
shareholder, told Catalan daily La Vanguardia on October 27 that the bank recognised itself as one of those alluded to after seeing the BCE’s latest report.
“We are in line with what the BCE is advocating,” Simon said.
Seventy-year-old Goirigolzarri’s decision to step down will also draw attention to Santander’s chair, Ana Botin, as well as Carlos Torres and Josep Oliu, respective chairmen of BBVA and Banco Sabadell.
Steel
THE 8,683 workers employed by the ArcelorMittal steel company want to know when its decarbonisation process will begin.
Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal, which received a €450 million subsidy for partial decarbonsation from the Spanish government, has already shut down its Gijon foundry and rolling mill.
The Lesaka (Navarra) still operates but staff at other plants in Asturias, the Basque Region and Valencian Community are “worried” according to union officials.
Revenue for ArcelorMittal’s Spanish plants reached €3.75 billion in 2023 with earnings of €171 million, but profits per ton fell 20 per cent in 2024 and the situation was complicated, the unions said.
The high street retailer, which owns clothing, accessories, footwear, homeware and beauty brands, increased its predictions for the third time since the beginning of August, and foresaw 2024’s full-year sales reaching £6.27 billion (€7.49 billion).
Next said the latest adjustment was the result of a “strong performance” in the three months ending in October after the weather turned colder and boosted sales of warmer clothing.
THE world’s largest mining company, BHP, said it had moved on following three failed attempts to take over British rival, Anglo American.
Instead, the company’s chairman, Ken MacKenzie, said it would focus on other growth opportunities after Anglo American rejected BHP’s final £39 billion (€46.6 billion) offer. The takeover bid failed due to BHP’s plans to subsequently sell off some of Anglo American’s South African assets Kumba Iron Ore and Anglo American Platinum, which are major job providers.
CAIXABANK CHAIRMAN: Jose Ignacion Goirigolzarri steps down after three years
SANTANDER UK: Paying commission on car loans could prove expensive Photo
3I Group 3.201,00 3.213,00 3.181,00 161,3K Admiral Group 2.561,0 2.575,5 2.551,9 21,71K
Airtel Africa 102,10 103,00 101,20 494,82K Anglo American 2.423,5 2.436,0 2.398,0 424,77K
Antofagasta 1.756,50 1.772,00 1.746,50 249,2K
Ashtead Group 5.764,0 5.774,0 5.724,0 30,48K Associated British Foods 2.246,0 2.280,0 2.226,0 449,37K AstraZeneca 11.076,0 11.165,4 11.058,0 152,39K Auto Trader Group Plc 852,20 862,20 852,20 58,09K
Aviva 456,70 458,50 454,00 1,39M
B&M European Value Retail SA 393,93 400,80 390,50 583,2K
BAE Systems 1.259,00 1.271,50 1.247,50 882,27K Barclays 239,20 241,10 237,60 7,85M Barratt Developments 454,00 467,50 452,40 966,77K
Beazley 760,93 771,50 760,00 179,55K Berkeley 4.490,0 4.592,0 4.468,0 74,89K
BP 372,90 374,85 372,05 9,25M British American Tobacco 2.634,0 2.643,0 2.625,0 352,41K BT Group 138,70 138,95 137,20 1,94M
3.402,0 3.416,0 3.393,4 116,13K
117,65 119,50 117,30 1,16M
155,5K
2.505,00 2.517,00 2.496,00 529,74K
1.042,00 1.032,00 66,46K
Entertainment 17.970,0 18.060,0 17.885,0 9,29K
771,00 789,22 771,00 69,43K
Euro
EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.83
EUR/USD: Down from $1.11 to $1.08
The euro closed September on a sour note, as EUR investors were spooked by abysmal Eurozone PMI figures.
As we entered October, these losses were compounded by a weaker-than-expected Eurozone inflation print and several dovish remarks from European Central Bank (ECB) policymakers.
EUR exchange rates then plunged to new multi-month lows in the wake of the ECB’s interest rate decision in the second half of October. In addition to cutting rates, the bank hinted that it will continue to loosen its monetary policy in the coming months.
Looking ahead, EUR investors will keep a close eye on upcoming Eurozone data, with
Currency outlook: Euro plunges as ECB cuts rates, US dollar rallies as markets reprice Fed rate cut bets
a particular focus on the bloc’s third quarter GDP release.
Pound
GBP/EUR: Up from €1.19 to €1.20
GBP/USD: Down from $1.33 to $1.30
The pound was buoyant through the end of September, as it was underpinned by upbeat PMI figures and comments from Bank of England (BoE) Governor Andrew Bailey suggesting that UK interest rates will fall ‘gradually’.
However, Bailey appeared to do a 180 at the start of October, with his remarks suggesting the bank may become a ‘bit more aggressive’ in cutting rates, triggering a sharp plunge in GBP exchange rates.
Subsequent movement in the pound was uneven, with mixed UK economic data and uncertainty over Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s impending Autumn Budget infusing volatility into Sterling.
The immediate focus for GBP investors will undoub -
tedly be the budget announcement on 30 October. The Chancellor will need to avoid spooking markets with her spending and tax plans or the pound is likely to weaken.
US Dollar
USD/GBP: Up from £0.75 to £0.76
USD/EUR: Up from €0.89 to €0.92
The US dollar has enjoyed a notable recovery over the past month as USD investors reined in their expectations for
additional rate cuts from the Federal Reserve.
Bets for another bumper rate cut in November quickly evaporated in response to upbeat US economic data and hawkish remarks from Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
These gains were further reinforced by a negative shift in market risk appetite.
As we enter November, the US Presidential election looms large. The election itself remains too close to call, and this uncertainty could infuse volatility into the US dollar in the coming weeks.
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Keep the faith?
LEAPY LEE
SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
I HAVE never voted in my life. Even in my teens some inner voice was constantly informing me that our whole existence was being governed incorrectly and when eighteen finally arrived I simply couldn’t be bothered in scribing my ‘x’ just about anywhere at all. I do remember exploring different places of worship in an endeavor to root out my rapidly approaching adult category options, but to no avail. Many establishments were trying hard with their beliefs and philosophies, but none seemed to give much hope for a secure or confident future existence. For my liking too many suggested ‘having faith’ when buttonholed by unanswerable questions. Then of course I discovered the spiritualist ‘manifesto’ and all commenced to become clear. It was soon obvious to me that we were still a long way from a perfect human race objective and it would probably be at least another thousand years before we reached it, if at all. This was when my thoughts turned back to politics.
If spiritualist leanings still had some way to go before being accepted to run our human personifications, who were?
I decided to take a closer look. What a sorry bunch I was greeted by.
Those who endeavour to administer our society are still a collection of power mad exhibitionists, who run our social order like leagues of business operatives that don’t really care too much what transpires as long as it keeps them in positions of power and dominant supremacy and the left are undoubtedly the most deficient.
The Democrats have brought the USA to its knees; five years of ludicrous decision making, which at the outset cost them the lives of troops and the loss of billions in Afghanistan, where their cowardly retreat and discarded weaponry has left the despicable rulers of the country rubbing their hands as they spread death and iron rule on its innocent civilians. Because of their ridiculous lack of border control they have allowed some ten million illegal immigrants to bring crime and chaos to many of their once beautiful cities.
Businesses have gone broke and
unemployment has risen to millions. If Kamala Harris has become elected, the leaders of a number of dictatorial run countries will be delighted and I also believe the West will be one more step towards WW3.
Now, heaven forbid, the UK also has the leftie brigade in charge. Obviously this bunch had no idea what they were taking over or how to run it. Illegal immigration is already up 70 per cent; preening Home Secretary Reece is gallivanting about in different attire for every ego enhancing occasion. Crime is rapidly spiraling out of control.
Starmer is globetrotting to every world leader who agrees to give him the time of day; arrogantly letting them know that he is now the boss, when he should be completely ignoring all outside kingpins and throwing himself soley into the problems that beset his own country; and the pensioners, none of whom would have voted them in had they the least idea of the resulting mayhem, are looking at a winter of cold and misery.
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.
World’s first
A NEW Swedish company, Candela has introduced what it claims to be the world’s first electric hydrofoil ferry which covers the route from Tappström, to Stockholm City Hall, 15km in 30 minutes.
Using electric motors it literally flies silently one metre above the water cutting the usual travel time in half and according to Gustav Hasselskog, founder and CEO of Candela “This is a paradigm shift for urban transport and a revival of our waterways.”
If this iconic first ferry route turns out to be both successful environmentally and profitable for the company then this could be a major breakthrough in city water transport, not just for Stockholm but also for much of the world.
The Nova is the first of Candela’s new P-12 models to enter service. Its computer-controlled hydrofoil wings lift the hull above water, reducing energy consumption by 80 per cent compared to conventional vessels by cutting water friction.
Nova flies above the water rather than pushing through it, creating minimal wake allowing travel at high speeds within the city limits, where other vessels are restricted by wake regulations.
INTERVIEW
Finland to Fuengirola
Successful Finnish lawyer Sofia Runne moved to Fuengirola a couple of years ago with her husband Tuomas and their two children. It wasn’t meant to be permanent, but now it’s looking like it’s for keeps.
WE are a family of four and a dog from Finland, and had considered moving away. We had lived abroad at other points in our lives and when I started my parental leave from work, we sold our home in Finland and decided to move to Costa Del Sol in 2022.
Credit: SR
After trying Mijas and Marbella, the family found Fuengirola perfect for them. Sofia is frustrated by the bureaucracy in Spain which is very different to Finland. “The paperwork involved with changing countryschools, apartments, cars, healthcare, etc.”
Runne, Tuomas Korhonen & family.
She’s fine with Spanish as she used to live in Costa Rica, however, she says, ‘my husband is struggling the most in our family, but he already speaks five languages. If he had a bit more time to study, he would learn quic -
The kids have adapted well to their new environment. “Our daughter missed Finnish food at first, but she is doing better now and loves school food.”
After a life of travelling the globe, it seems Sofia and family have found a home in Fuengirola.
Nova is already at work ferrying passengers in Stockholm
Sofia
Ryanair cutting UK flights
RYANAIR has announced plans to cut its UK ights by 10 per cent next year, responding to Labour’s decision to increase Air Passenger Duty (APD) in the latest Budget. CEO Michael O’Leary condemned the hike as “damaging” to the UK’s tourism appeal and warned it could mean up to ve million fewer passengers ying via UK airports. Lower supply typically means higher fares for travellers.
From 2026/27, APD will rise by up to £2 per economy ticket for short-haul ights, while private jet passengers face a 50 per cent APD increase. Chancellor Rachel Reeves noted APD hadn’t kept pace with in ation, prompting the
hike. O’Leary argues the increased tax burdens regular families, making the UK less appealing than countries like Ireland, which recently reduced travel taxes to boost tourism.
Despite seeing record-breaking tra c with 20.5 million passengers in
August, Ryanair’s pro ts dropped 46 per cent earlier this year, a ected by a decline in average fares.
This highlights the airline’s sensitivity to competitive pricing and regulatory costs, with the recent APD hike expected to strain Ryanair’s operations further.
SPAIN’S RURAL SUCCESS STORY!
SPAIN has become known for its struggle against ‘over-tourism’ and the rising costs of city living, squeezing locals out of booming urban centres. However, there’s another demographic headache brewing: rural populations are dwindling, leaving villages deserted.
For decades, this growing divide was largely overlooked as Spain’s young democracy flourished, bringing jobs and prosperity to cities and coastal regions while rural areas were left to stagnate.
Recently, hundreds of grassroots groups have sprung up, demanding infrastructure and support for these neglected regions. This has even given rise to a political party and the nationwide movement ‘Emptied Spain’ (‘España Vaciada’) I’ve already described here.
Several initiatives have been launched to revitalise the hardest-hit areas, from tax breaks and free housing to schooling incentives and efforts to attract immigrants. Results have been mixed, but there are positive signs.
For instance, a village in Teruel - a
Trump wins
Adam Woodward DONALD TRUMP is the winner of the 2024 US elections and will become the 47th president of the United States. The historic rebound of the Republican candidate to the White House was confirmed after his victory in Wisconsin, which allowed him to reach 276 delegates. “An incredible victory for the American people,” Trump said in his predictable gruff yet jubilant way.
The Republican candidate managed to defeat Democratic contender and incumbent veep, Kamala Harris, in Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, and Wisconsin, four key states where the Democratic Party was decimated.
Donald Trump will not only become president of the United States, but
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
province of Aragon where the depopulation movement started over 20 years ago with the slogan ‘Teruel Exists!’ - recently announced plans to open its first nursery school. Success, finally!
But Spain is not alone. Rural Ireland I recently visited faces similar issues. People flock to cities in search of jobs, higher wages and better services, leaving behind vacant properties and villages. Meanwhile, city property prices soar, rural homes are a steal. Maybe Ireland could take a leaf out of Spain’s book for repopulation strategies?
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.
the Republicans will also regain control of the Senate. Trump has also won in the popular vote, achieving about five million votes more than his rival.
Kamala Harris did not make a speech to her party faithful, choosing to switch off the lights in the central garden of Howard University, the campaign headquarters of the Democratic Party. Normally, any candi-
date, whether winning or losing, would finish the event by thanking their voters and team, but Kamala Harris just left the building, according to attendees. Next, the vote has to go to the Electoral College, which officially has the final say on who is inaugurated president on Monday, January 20. Given there is now no doubt who won the election, no calls for re-
Celebrating Trump.
Credit:
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary.
Costa del Sol Hearing aid mission
THE Nomad Biker, AKA Marbella resident Esther Adán, spoke to Euro Weekly News about her campaign to collect hearing aids for deaf children in Vietnam.
She wants anyone who might have a Spanish-issued hearing aid they do not need to donate it to her campaign. Esther and a group of motorcyclists will pick them up to be reprogrammed for children at a deaf school. Then, she plans to take the reconditioned aids to Vietnam and deliver them by motorbike.
So far, and with only 12 months on her licence, Esther has ridden across Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Colombia, and Norway, but her biggest objective is to return to the school and get the kids fitted with hearing aids.
Hearing aids can be sent to Salud Auditiva Burgos, Plaza España 6 bajo, Burgos 09005, or picked up by Esther by contacting her via her Instagram account @where_is_esther, or via Facebook at the Where Is Esther page.
Axarquia Frigiliana’s beauty
FRIGILIANA has once again been named the most beautiful village in Malaga, according to a recent study by Musement, and locals couldn’t be prouder. This beautiful whitewashed village, home to nearly 20,000 residents, consistently steals the spotlight in online polls and social media discussions about Spain’s pretty towns and villages.
Despite some debate about its steep hills, Frigiliana’s appeal is undeniable. Located at the foot of the Sierra de Almijara, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the stunning mountains that frame it. With its rich history and well-preserved Moorish architecture, it’s no wonder this village continues to dazzle both visitors and residents.
The heart of Frigiliana lies in its Moorish-Mudéjar quarter, featuring narrow, winding streets filled with whitewashed homes decorated with colourful doors. The village’s famous flower pots bring a splash of colour to this quaint landscape. Time and again, Frigiliana proves it’s more than just a pretty face.
Costa Blanca North Strength in numbers
IN an inspiring display of unity and generosity, communities across Costa Blanca North came together to provide much-needed relief for those impacted by the DANA storm. From essential supplies like water, milk and food, to assistance from local authorities, citizens and organisations, the collective response was quick and heartfelt.
Volunteers worked tirelessly alongside police and emergency teams to ensure that aid reached the areas in greatest need, offering both practical and emotional support to those affected.
At the Palau d’Esports in Benidorm, thousands of citizens gathered to donate critical supplies.
The collection efforts by local councils amassed a huge amount of supplies, including 100,000 masks, hundreds of kilos of food, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products, footwear and rainboots.
Lorries and vans were soon filled and sent to the hardest-hit areas to address the most pressing needs communicated by emergency responders.
Costa Blanca South Celebrating a century
ON October 28 friends and family gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone: Louisa Harris’s 100th birthday. Born on October 28, 1924, in London’s East End, Louisa’s life has spanned a century.
Growing up in an industrious era, Louisa worked as a machinist, and during the Second World War, she joined the war effort by making parachutes. Her sons, Leslie and Ronnie, now 82 and 80 respectively, proudly reflect on her role as a working mother during those challenging times.
Louisa’s life changed in 1970 when she and her husband, Les, purchased land in Mi Sol Park. For years, it became the perfect holiday spot for the family until, in their 80s, Louisa and Les decided to make the move permanent and had a park home built.
In her later years, Louisa moved into the Los Jardines de Clara Care Home, an assisted living facility in Torrevieja, where she is surrounded by caring staff and new friends.
Almeria
DANA aid announced
FOLLOWING recent severe weather, the Provincial Council of Almeria has announced a new aid package to support municipalities affected by the DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos, or isolated depression at high levels) that brought heavy rains and hailstorms to the Poniente Almeriense and Almanzora Valley regions. These areas faced significant damage from intense rainfall and flooding.
Provincial President Javier Aureliano García visited the affected zones. Provincial Vice Pre-sident Fernando Giménez outlined the aid programme, which will be divided into three main areas.
The first line of aid will focus on restoring municipal roads, highways, and other public paths damaged by flooding. The second will address urban infrastructure repairs in towns and villages, including community facilities that require urgent attention. Finally, the third line of support will go toward rebuilding and repairing water and sanitation infrastructure, vital for ensuring safe drinking water and functional sewage systems.
Costa Calida Local impact
THE MABS Cancer Support Foundation in San Javier is celebrating after receiving an incredible donation of €13,045 from the Jolly Boys Golf Society. This fantastic contribution will provide vital assistance to cancer patients in the San Javier area, helping to fund essential services like counselling, equipment, transport, complementary therapies, and much more.
The Jolly Boys Golf Society’s commitment to raising funds demonstrates the power of community support in times of need. Their efforts will make a real difference in the lives of local patients, making sure they have access to the help they require on their cancer journey.
With this generous donation, MABS can continue to offer the compassionate care that is so crucial for those affected by cancer. This collaboration highlights how a united community can uplift and support one another, proving that every bit of generosity counts in the fight against cancer.
A puppaccino
A PUP CUP is a small, dog-friendly treat typically offered by coffee shops and pet-friendly establishments. It usually consists of whipped cream, although some places may use yogurt or other safe ingredients for dogs. The idea behind the pup cup is to provide a spe-
cial treat for dogs while their owners enjoy their beverages, allowing pets to partake in the café experience. Pup cups are generally safe for dogs in moderation, as long as the ingredients are dog-friendly. However, it’s important for pet owners to ensure that the whipped
cream or yogurt does not contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Some dogs may also be lactose intolerant, so it’s wise to monitor their reactions after consumption.
Coffee shops and cafés offer pup cups as a way to attract dog owners and create a welcoming atmosphere for pets.
This trend taps into the growing pet ownership culture, where people increasingly want to include their furry companions in their daily activities. By providing pup cups, businesses not only enhance the customer experience but also foster a community of pet lovers.
Signs of stress
Pet-sit for love not money
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teractions, or display unusual aggression.
To alleviate stress, first identify the triggers. Common stressors include loud noises, changes in routine, or lack of exercise. Creating a calm environment can help; consider providing a safe space where your dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
DOGS, like humans, can experience stress, and it’s important for owners to recognise the signs. Common indicators of stress include excessive barking, pacing, panting, and destructive behaviour. Additionally, a stressed dog may exhibit changes in appetite, withdraw from social in-
Regular exercise is crucial. Daily walks and playtime not only promote physical health but also help reduce anxiety. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training sessions can engage your dog’s mind and distract from stressors.
Consistency in routines can provide comfort to dogs, so try to maintain regular feeding and walking schedules.
If your dog’s stress persists, consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for tailored advice.
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Premier League round up
THE English Premier League weekend of November 2 to 4 saw some unexpected results and some of the top teams losing against the odds.
With every team having played 10 matches, Manchester City who seemed sure to stay top of the table actually lost their rst Premier League match for 33 games against Bournemouth with much being made of injuries, but with a team that elded Harland, Foden and Bernado Silver, there was still plenty of class
on the pitch.
Bournemouth are turning out to be the ‘dark horses’ of the season, having beaten Arsenal and drawn with Aston Villa in the previous two weeks and once again Arsenal lost, this time to Newcastle.
Liverpool were far from their top form against Brighton and Hove Albion but were assisted by a late Mo Salah goal to take the win and return to top spot.
Manchester United without Erik ten Hag for the rst
Fulham’s super-sub Harry Wilson.
time, managed a draw against Chelsea and one of only two teams to have a really good win was Tottenham who beat Aston Villa 4-1.
Probably the most surprising team at the moment is Nottingham Forest who by beating West Ham 3-0 moved up to third place i.
Perhaps the most unusual result was Fulham 2 - Brentford 1 with Fulham substitute Harry Wilson coming o the bench to score two goals in the 92nd and 97th minutes.
Real Madrid’s secret
REPORTS reveal that Real Madrid knew Vinicius Jr would not win the 2024 Ballon d’Or but decided to withhold this news to avoid distracting him before their critical El Clásico match against Barcelona. According to Cadena SER, Vinicius began suspecting his slim chances of winning as early as the Friday before the ceremony. Despite Real Madrid’s attempts to shield his focus, the team su ered a 4-0 defeat.
In a bold move, Real Madrid’s delegation chose to skip the Ballon d’Or ceremony altogether. Originally planning to travel to Paris, head coach Carlo Ancelotti ultimately cancelled the trip. As reported by COPE, Ancelotti took this step in solidarity, prioritising team morale. He later down-played the impact on Vinicius, noting the player’s attention was more on the recent oods
Credit: Instagram @vinijr.
Vinicius Jr is still determined to win the Ballon d’Or one day.
a ecting Valencia.
Vinicius’ record-breaking season, scoring 24 goals and becoming the youngest player to net in multiple Champions League nals, earned him high expectations. However, he nished second to Manchester City’s Rodri. Responding on social media, Vinicius expressed resilience, writing, “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.” O the pitch, Vinicius has also become a prominent voice against racism in La Liga, famously stating, “I’m not a victim of ra-
UEFA’s €1 bn investment
UEFA announced its Unstoppable campaign on social media.
UEFA has announced a new strategy called Unstoppable, with plans to invest €1 billion in women’s football by 2030. Building on the success of its previous initiative, Time for Action, launched in 2019, Unstoppable aims to enhance the future of women’s football across Europe. UEFA’s long-term goals include making football the top team sport for women and girls in every European country and developing Europe’s top players by establishing six fully professional leagues and supporting 5,000 professional female players. It also aims to make women’s football the most sustainable and investable women’s sport, and to celebrate the sport’s community and unique values.
Nadine Kessler, UEFA’s managing director of women’s football, highlighted recent progress: “European women’s football has never been in a better place. National teams and clubs are excelling, and women’s football has become a sport for the masses, attracting diverse fans and partners. We promise to keep investing and collectively lead the game forward.”
The Unstoppable initiative has already gained support from high-pro le gures such as Jill Scott, Lauren James, and recent Ballon d’Or winner, Aitana Bonmatí. The next ve years look promising, with increased investments, opportunities for players, and growing fan engagement driving the sport forward.
Credit: X, @UWCL