Costa de Almeria 25 April – 1 May 2024 Issue 2025

Tour of Almeria

thusiasts

eighth edition on April 27 and 28.

Organised by Total Sport Mediterranean in conjunction with the A Todo Marcha Sports Club, this prestigious two-day amateur cycling event will showcase approximately 200 cyclists from across the province.

This year’s tour promises an exhilarating two-day adventure through Almeria’s rugged landscapes, including Levante Almeriense, Valle del Almanzora, and Filabres-Tabernas.

The first stage on Saturday, April 27 will cover a challenging 98 km loop starting and ending in Los Gallardos. The event will conclude on Sunday, April 28, in which riders will embark on a gruelling 115 km journey from Albox to the iconic Nuestra Señora del Saliente Sanctuary and back.

Hyundai Almerialva steps up as the official vehicle sponsor, ensuring a smooth execution of the event. The com-

petition not only highlights the scenic beauty of Almeria but also underscores the region’s growing prominence in Spain’s amateur cycling scene. Enthusiasts and spectators can expect a weekend filled with fierce competition and stunning vistas.

THE Vuelta Ciclista a Almeria is set to captivate cycling en-

with its

Spectators can expect a weekend filled with fierce competition and stunning vistas.

Credit: synto/Shutterstock.com

Isabel Jimenez.

THE Mojacar Town Council unveiled its Tourism 2024 campaign on April 25 at Cosentino City Madrid, with a message to live for the moment.

The event featured industry leaders from national and international tourism, media, public administrations, and various well-known gures.

This event also saw the revival of the prestigious ‘Ciudad de Mojacar’ Gold Indalo, which this year will honour the Almeria journalist

The council also gave special mentions to singer-songwriter Vanesa Martin in the Art and Culture category, the Memolab UGR from the University of Granada in the History and Heritage category, and the El Puntazo tourist complex in the Local Business and Tradition category.

Launching with the slogan ‘Your Best Moment is to Live It’, giving a little nod to those who spend their time capturing images for social media.

ON Saturday, April 20 the Pirate Landing at San Jose beach in Nijar unfolded with 200 volunteer actors captivating an audience of thousands.

The event marked the 11th edition of a meticulously designed theatrical re-enactment, complete with pirate costumes and a stunning natural backdrop.

The mayor of Nijar, Jose Francisco Garrido, and the councillor for Cultu-

Instead, the campaign encouraged visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experiences that Mojacar o ers, from its landscapes to local gastronomy and leisure activities.

The slogan, previously introduced at the International Tourism Fair, was well-received for its fresh approach.

The event featured the debut of a promotional video, campaign details by Mayor Francisco Garcia, and concluded with a networking cocktail party.

MORE than 19,000 swimming pools in Almeria are in limbo, awaiting decisions on whether they can be lled this summer.

Amidst unclear and sometimes contradictory statements, local residents, businesses, and administrators are left hanging in the balance. Despite the easing of some restrictions in Andalucia, confusion persists as regional decrees vary by neighbourhood, complicating the situation further.

Pool uncertainty Mojacar campaign

The future of certain livelihoods is in question.

In Almeria, private and community pools face stringent conditions, as recent government directives remain vague according to many.

The pirates of San Jose

re, Maria Jesus Lopez, were among the attendees.

The weekend’s events, including the Pirate Landing, offered a host of activities for all ages.

Over the weekend San Jose also ran children’s activities, workshops, live

music, sports tournaments, and culinary delights.

The vibrant atmosphere and community participation highlighted this annual celebration, bringing the spirit of the high seas to life on the shores of San Jose.

This regulatory uncertainty has frozen thousands of service contracts crucial for the maintenance of pools, gardens, and associated tourist activities. Local entrepreneurs, especially those in tourism have expressed growing concern as the future of their livelihoods remains in question.

Almeria’s town councils now shoulder the responsibility on decisions on pool usage, provided they adhere to the severe drought measure of 200 litres per inhabitant per day.

This guideline challenges towns like Roquetas de Mar, Almeria City, and Arboleas, where the density of pools is particularly high, to balance water conservation with community and economic needs.

The decision on whether these pools can be re lled will signi cantly a ect the local economy, hinging on the councils’ interpretation of the latest regional statements and their ability to manage scarce water resources wisely.

Car show

THE 950 Car Show

2024 will be held at the Nigel-Stuart Laguna Restaurant in Vera on Sunday, April 28, from 10.00am to 1.00pm. The event promises to be a spectacular showcase of classic cars, high-performance speedsters, and rugged 4x4s. For more details, call 950 391 412.

Charity quiz

MIMI’S Bar, Mojacar will be hosting a special charity quiz on Tuesday, April 30 at 5.30pm. Teams of up to six people are welcome. The €10 quiz entry fee covers a donation to MACS Cancer Support Group. Contact Mark on 651 872 604 to reserve a table.

Blaze arrest

NINE farmers were arrested for setting fire to a warehouse in El Ejido, as part of a protest against products from Morocco. They targeted a facility which stored fruits and vegetables, aware of the 25 workers inside.

Beach tragedy

A WOMAN’S body was discovered early on Friday, April 19, on Mojacar’s Las Ventanicas-El Cantal beach, Almeria. Alerted by a passerby, emergency teams confirmed her death.

Los Albaricoques

ALMERIA is well-known as the rugged landscape behind the iconic westerns of Sergio Leone, but one little town in Nijar is a place of pilgrimage for fans of the spaghetti west.

When most people think of spaghetti western locations they instinctively think of the Oasys theme park in the heart of the Tabernas desert. There visitors can wander around the lm sets built by Italian lmmakers in the early 60s, and enjoy an authentic western show.

However, the ubiquitous whitewashed town, that made actors such as Clint Eastwood and Lee Van Cleef famous, is called Los Albaricoques (The Apricots) and is home to around 300 people. At the approach to the

town, a giant silhouetted cowboy, six-shooter in hand, heralds visitors’ arrival, with a sign that reads, ‘Bienvenidos a Los Albaricoques es de cine,’ which roughly translates to ‘Welcome to The Apri-

cots, from the movies.’

Cruise season

ALMERIA has kicked o its cruise season in grand style with the arrival of two luxury ships, bringing passengers from the United Kingdom and the United States. The Port of Almeria welcomed the elegant sailboat Wind Surf on April 18, followed by the boutique cruise ship Azamara Quest on April 19.

The Wind Surf, part of the Windstar Cruises eet, is a ve-masted schooner and one of the largest sailing cruise ships in the world. It is also known for its unique schedule that includes stops at more select ports which are inaccessible to lar-

Beer battle

NOTHING quite matches a perfectly poured beer on a hot day, and it’s an art close to the hearts of the people behind Cruzcampo.

The town is quite rightly proud of its cinematic history, as the street names, written in authentic western font, bear witness. Visitors will nd themselves walking along Calle Lee Van Cleef, Calle Clint Eastwood, Avenida Sergio Leone or Calle Ennio Morricone, the inspirational Italian composer behind countless westerns of the 60s and 70s.

ger vessels. Departing from Lisbon, the ship’s eight-day Mediterranean voyage includes visits to Cadiz, Gibraltar, Malaga, Cartagena, and Palma de Mallorca, concluding in Barcelona.

Azamara Quest, operated by Azamara Club Cruises, provides an intimate luxury experience for its 780 passengers. Starting its journey in Lisbon, the ship’s route covers both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, with stops including Portimao, Gibraltar, and Malaga, before docking in Almeria and continuing to Valencia and Barcelona.

Artistic makeover

THIS striking work of the short-lived art by the French artist Saype has recently been unveiled in El Ejido, using the sprawling plastic greenhouses of Almeria as his canvas.

Named ‘The Great Wave’, the piece features a child peering beneath a colossal wave of plastic, simulating the ocean.

Crafted on natural surfaces like grass, dirt, and sand, Saype’s work uses eco-friendly

paint that he produces himself, ensuring it is biodegradable and environmentally safe. The paint, primarily made of chalk and charcoal, fades naturally due to weather conditions.

The artwork, a huge 50-metre fresco, was developed from a sketch and gives a realistic perspective, suggesting the child is properly scaled against the backdrop.

Given the vastness of Almeria’s plastic greenhouses, which are visible from space, this installation not only showcases Saype’s artistic brilliance but also prompts a thought-provoking re ection on the consequences of the world’s consumption patterns.

Los Albaricoques has now been modernised with tarmacked roads and new houses. However, keen spaghetti western a cionados will still recognise the few untouched buildings that were featured in lms such as A Fistful of Dollars (1964) and For a Few Dollars More (1965).

On the edge of the town lies the circular stone-paved arena (representing a bullring) that served as the setting for the nal shootout in For a Few Dollars More.

The Second Cruzcampo Draught Contest has been set for Monday, April 29, a competition that celebrates the essential hospitality skills of serving the perfect beer. The event will be held at the same venue as the previous year, on the terrace of the Municipal School of Music and Arts of Almeria (EMMA) on the fourth oor.

Designed to honour those who maintain the quality of beer, its distribution, and exemplary service, the contest also fosters a communal spirit among hospitality professionals. The inaugural event in 2023 saw over 100 industry experts exchanging knowledge and experiences in a convivial setting. The jury announced ve nalists, with Jose Montoya from Casa Anica de Turre clinching the title. He was followed closely by Gabriel Gonzalez from Bodega de Enmedio at the Mercado Central, and Cristian Garcia from El Portichuelo de Tabernas, who came in third.

The approach to Los Albaricoques.

‘The Great Wave’ by Saype.

Credit: saype_artiste/Instagram

+34 951 38

Community support

THE mayor of Roquetas de Mar, Gabriel Amat, along with Antonio Lopez, the councillor for Mobility, Traffic and Commerce, have presented donations totalling €630 to the Altea, Darata, and Aspergers associations.

The donation comes from funds raised during the Autism Day campaign, where local businesses sold charity bracelets under the campaign slogan

TORRECARDENAS University Hospital has joined forces with the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) in Almeria, to enhance care for cancer patients.

#LlamemosloPorSuNombre (Let’s call it by its

name). Mayor Amat praised the six week initiati-

ve, coordinated with the Chamber of Commerce, saying, “for a month and a half, autism has been given visibility throughout our town. In addition, we have managed to raise funds to support the work of the three associations, which play a fundamental role in the social fabric of our municipality. Thank you to everyone who has contributed with their solidarity,” he concluded.

Cancer care boost

This partnership aims to expand emotional support, accompaniment, and advice for patients and their families throughout their illness. This collaborative effort is part of the hospital’s Humanisation Plan and represents a significant advancement in patient care.

Manuel Vida, the managing director of the hospital, emphasised the importance of this agreement: “a significant step forward in our mission to offer comprehensive care to our patients and to continue betting on Humanisation in all its

aspects of care.” Magdalena Cantero, president of the AECC in Almería, also highlighted the collective strength gained through this alliance: “By joining forces with the Torrecardenas University Hospital, we are expanding our capacity to make a real difference in the lives of those who face this disease.”

The agreement includes joint initiatives and training programmes to equip volunteers to offer their support effectively. It also aims to promote cancer awareness and encourage community participation through volunteering or other support, thus amplifying the impact of this vital partnership.

Donations for autism campaign.

Credit: roquetasdemar.es

Wanted: Filmmakers

THE Almeria Western Film Festival (AWFF) has announced the opening of entries for its 14th edition, set to run from October 10 to 13 in Tabernas, Almeria.

This year, the only Western genre film festival in Europe will focus on ‘water, migration and the train’ as pivotal elements in its international competitive sections.

Reflecting on the challenges of climate change, the scarcity of water is highlighted as a crucial theme, given the arid backdrop of the Tabernas Desert. The festival also aims

to address issues of migration, spurred by global conflicts and the need for sociocultural integration in local communities.

Moreover, the festival will explore the train’s role as both a transport medium and a cultural symbol, linking diverse territories and peoples.

Entries for the festival are now being accepted exclusively via the FilmFreeWay and Festhome platforms. Films and shorts that resonate with contemporary Western or New Western themes, released after January 1,

2023, are encouraged to register.

The event will also feature a competitive section for film schools and universities, with a young jury composed of individuals aged 18 to 29 adjudicating the entries. Additionally, the Outlaw section will return, showcasing more independent works vying for the Public award.

Awards will be granted across various categories, including the best Western feature film and the ‘Carlo Simi’ prize for significant technical-artistic contributions to the genre.

Port promo

THE Port of Almeria has begun a campaign targeting two million people across five European countries to promote its facilities as the preferred transit point this summer.

This initiative, named ‘From our port to yours’, is part of the Strait Crossing Operation (OPE), encouraging advanced ticket purchases for trips to North Africa.

This digital campaign will run over the next few months through platforms such as Meta (Instagram and Facebook), YouTube, and various radio stations, aiming to boost the port’s passenger traffic.

The promotion will focus on travellers from Europe, including Germany, Belgium, Spain, France and the Netherlands, with an estimated audience of around two million people.

The campaign will showcase the port’s services and facilities through tailored images and videos, assisting travellers in making informed decisions. A direct link to purchase tickets through operators like

Balearia, Armas-Trasmediterranea, and GNV will be provided, highlighting routes to Melilla, Morocco, and Algeria.

The president of the Port Authority of Almeria, Rosario Soto, has valued the passenger traffic of the OPE, which represents for the Port of Almeria around 65 per cent of the annual passenger traffic and 60 per cent of vehicles, which translates into around €4 million.

The Almeria Western Film Festival in 2023.

Credit: AWFFOficial/facebook.com

President of the APA, Rosario Soto.

Credit: puertodealmeria/X

Tapa triumph

THE new edition of the Garrucha Tapa Route has been declared a resounding success.

From April 12 to 21, Garrucha’s gastronomy shone as 48 restaurants and eight ice cream parlours and cafes dazzled with 35 tapas and 25 gourmet desserts.

The 2024 Tapa Route not only broke partici pation records but also solidified its status as a key economic driver.

Pablo Fernandez Galindo, the local councillor for Commerce and Tourism, stated, “I want to thank all the citizens of Garrucha and every visitor who has come to enjoy this wonderful gastronomic experience.”

With a price tag of €4 per tapa, including a drink, the event offered not just culinary deli -

ghts but a chance at winning one of four trips, including a cruise around the Greek islands and a visit to Disneyland Paris.

The initiative also ensured safety and accessibility, with Autocares Baraza offering free bus services for residents who needed transportation to the event.

Galindo, overseeing his first Tapa Route, expressed his enthusiasm on Facebook: “I look

even more to the next edition of the Tapa Route. I am sure that together we will continue to create new initiatives, where creativity and exquisiteness will continue to delight all the Tapa Route visitors.”

The festival has not only enhanced Garrucha’s gastronomic reputation but also its attractiveness as a tourist destination, promising even greater successes in future editions.

Credit: AytoGarrucha

Julianne Archer

STARBUCKS is coming to Almeria! While there’s no exact opening date just yet, the store is expected to be up and running by summer. The famous American coffee company is gearing up to make its mark in Almeria, offering a wide range of its renowned coffees, teas, and desserts.

A step away from the normal coffee tradition in Spain, Starbucks has gained a lot of ground in the marketplace, and they hope to make a similar impact in Almeria.

This latest addition will be joining over

Starbucks in Almeria Europe’s orchard

ALMERIA, renowned as the ‘orchard of Europe’, has once again demonstrated its success in cucumber production, with exports reaching a record-breaking 667,550 million kilos in 2023.

This has generated a staggering €996 million in revenue for Spanish firms, firmly establishing the province as a leader in the market, accounting for 72 per cent of national sales.

Germany remains Almeria’s largest market, purchasing nearly half of the exported cucumbers, totalling 301 million kilos.

However, it is the Swiss who pay a premium, shelling out an average of €1.96 per kilo, compared to the €1.49 paid by the German market.

Despite this international success, local producers in Almeria face challenges, receiving only €1.46 per kilo on average. This contrasts sharply with the €2.85 per kilo earned in Guipuzkoa, reflecting the high demand for the limited supply from the Basque region. The year also saw sig-

150 Starbucks locations across Spain. The chosen spot for the first Starbucks in Almeria is the Torrecardenas Shopping Centre, as announced in a press release by the complex on Wednesday March 20. With almost all of its space already occupied as of 2023, the shopping centre continues to grow its culinary and entertainment offerings. For the grand opening, something very special is in the works.

Starbucks’ arrival will bring a new dimension to the visitors at the Torrecardenas Shopping Centre, which first opened its doors in October 2018. It’s all part of the complex’s ongoing mission to enhance the shopping experience for the local community.

nificant growth in the UK market, which tripled its expenditure on Spanish cucumbers, rising from €55 million to €144 million in 2023.

Lucky Almeria

LADY LUCK has favoured the province of Almeria once again.

Earlier this April, a local man secured a prize of €2,000 a month for ve years through Eurodreams, and another resident from Nijar won half a million euros with ONCE scratch cards. Now, the EuroMillions draw has brought yet another substantial prize to the area.

The excitement unfolded during the draw on Friday, April 19, as EuroMillions made its way through Almeria. Although the colossal ‘Eurobote’ jackpot of over €120 million remained unclaimed, which has now soared to €133 million, a signi cant prize was awarded in the Poniente region of Almeria.

The prize went to a ticket holder which was sold at Receiving O ce number 5,560, located on Avenida Carlos III in Aguadulce, within the Roquetas de Mar municipality. While the jackpot eluded capture, the second-tier winner did manage to match ve numbers and one star, netting over €900,000. In addition, 11 others won nearly €20,000 each in the third category.

Fresh cucumbers.

Developing your investment strategy

Why do we invest? For most people it is to ensure we have sufficient retirement savings to enjoy the benefits of working hard throughout our lives. Our savings therefore need to keep pace with inflation to maintain our spending power as prices rise over time. And to beat inflation, we need to invest appropriately.

After more than a decade of rock-bottom interest rates, cash may appear a more attractive option. But what happens when you compare bank interest rates to inflation? And with inflation under control, bank rates are likely to reduce. Plus, what will bank and inflation rates be in 10 and 20 years’ time?

Successful investing isn’t easy, but following proven principles can reduce risk and avoid common pitfalls.

Trying to time the markets

Staying invested over the long term usually gives the best returns, rather than trying to

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

time the markets. Buying and selling to chase short-term gains rarely helps meet your longer-term goals. Attempting to enjoy all the upsides and avoid the downside is impossible and fraught with risk. You have to speculate on future market movements and world events and get it right over and over.

Be careful of letting emotions sway investment decisions. If you get caught up in euphoria, you may buy when investments are most expensive. If you panic when markets fall you may sell at their lowest and lock in

your losses. If you do sell before shares finish falling, you need to judge when to get back in –rebounds are often sudden and you may miss the opportunity to recover your losses.

Waiting to invest

We often come across people who intend to invest for the long-term but are holding onto available capital. They’re waiting for external events to unfold to feel more positive that they won’t suffer losses.

Sitting and waiting for the perfect time is effectively trying to time the market. You may not be rewarded for your due diligence and end up with lower overall returns. If you are particularly cautious, consider the ‘pound cost averaging’ approach where you spread the timing of your investments.

Spreading risk

To earn returns that keep pace with inflation we have to accept some risk, but can take steps to reduce it.

Your strategy must be suitable for your situation, time horizon, risk appetite and goals. Then you need layers of diversification. A managed, diversified portfolio covering a range of asset classes, regions and sectors will likely generate better returns with less volatility. Choosing an adviser who uses a dynamic ‘multi-manager’ approach can help increase diversification.

Your investment plan and maintenance

If you don’t have a strategic investment plan in place, start by looking at your situation and objectives. What stage of life are you at? What are your circumstances and future plans? What assets do you own? How much risk are you comfortable with? What are you trying to achieve?

This will influence what your asset allocation should be. Work with an adviser who can objectively assess your attitude to risk to create your suita-

ble, long-term investment plan. Build a relationship with your adviser to ensure that you are patient and stick to the plan. Your adviser should review your portfolio annually to keep it on track.

Holding your investment portfolio within an arrangement that is tax efficient in Spain will help protect your capital from unnecessary taxation as well as inflation.

These views are put forward for consideration purposes only as the suitability of any investment is dependent on the investment objectives, time horizon, and attitude to risk of the investor. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, as can the income arising from them. Past performance should not be seen as an indication of future performance.

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

Puppy garden party

JOIN the community for a social event and help raise money for a good cause at the same time.

On Sunday, May 12 at 3.00pm, Puppy Rescue Spain will be holding a garden party to support their e orts in Albox, Almeria.

Tickets are available for €10 and include a lavish afternoon tea with a good selection of sandwiches and cakes, plus tea, co ee, and other beverages. Attendees will also have the chance to win fabulous prizes in spot ra es!

The event will be held in Los Patricios, with a pick-up service available from the Puppy Rescue Shop in Albox for convenience.

Stall holders are warmly invi-

ted to participate. Those interested in hosting a stall for just €5 should call a spot.

chased at the Puppy Rescue Shop in Albox, the Puppy Rescue stall at Los Llanos Market, and Total Entertainment in Al-

box and Arboleas.

THANKS to conservation e orts, the endangered Mohor gazelle’s future is safe in Almeria.

After more than ve decades of captivity, the Mohor gazelle’s survival is secure, with 300 individuals now thriving in Almeria. This success, con rmed on Friday, April 19, by the Higher Council for Scien-

The charitable community looks forward to welcoming all to what promises to be a wonderful day, with all proceeds going to help puppies in need.

In addition, every Saturday morning from 10.00am to 12.00pm, the Puppy Rescue stall at Los Llanos market welcomes visitors. People can meet pups ready for adoption, enjoy a cuddle, and discuss adoption opportunitiesawith volunteers.

Gazelle guardians

ti c Research (CSIC), is credited to the exemplary management of their breeding.

A study spearheaded by CSIC and the Complutense University of Madrid praised the strategy that has preserved genetic diversity despite the challenges of high inbreeding from just a few founders - one male and three females.

The European Captive Breeding Programme, coordinated by Sonia Dominguez from the EEZA-CSIC, involves 30 zoos across Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands,

Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland and Sweden.

Signi cantly, ‘genetic purging’ has eliminated harmful diseases and bolstered survival and reproduction rates.

As Sonia Dominguez emphasised the crucial ongoing control of pairings and genetic management to sustain the gazelle’s population viability.

The programme aims to reintroduce these gazelles to their native North African habitats, ensuring they are genetically equipped to adapt and ourish in the wild.

Nijar postal plea

ON Thursday, April 18, Nijar Town Council passed a motion calling on the Spanish government to improve postal services in the municipality.

This move, led by PP and Vox with opposition from PSOE, addresses the chronic staff shortages and resource deficits at local post offices such as Campohermoso, San Isidro, and San Jose.

These issues have led to a backlog of up to 3,000 undelivered notifications, many from the town council itself.

In the same session, the council approved Nijar’s largest ever budget, totalling €35.8 million, an increase of €3 million from the previous year.

The budget, described by Treasury councillor Maria del Mar Calatrava of PP, focuses on public services and infrastructure investments. Key areas include road maintenance, rural security enhancements, and cultural and sports initiatives.

“This is a budget with a distinct investment character,” explained Calatrava. “It prioritises essential items such as road conservation and invests in cultural activities and sports. We are also planning a rural patrol to boost security in our countryside.”

The council’s actions reflect a concerted effort to enhance local postal services and overall municipal infrastructure, ensuring improved accessibility and quality for all residents.

Credit: puppy.rescue.in.spain/Instagram.com

A puppy up for adoption.

Autism charity race

THE National Police in Almeria has unveiled the inaugural ‘RUTA 091 - Bicentennial Edition’ solidarity race.

The race announcement was made on Wednesday, April 17, at the Almeria National Police Station. With sponsorship from Banco Santander, proceeds will go to ASTEA (Autism Association Almeria), which will support inclusion projects for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The event will be part of the National Police’s bicentennial celebrations, and will include races for adults and children.

Scheduled for May 18, the event promises to combine sporting excellence with community spirit, with races starting from the South Gate of Andarax Park.

The children’s races will start from the South Gate of the Andarax Park starting at 5.00pm and

will have a choice of 50, 100 and 400 metres.

The main event will begin at 6.00pm, with a

distance of 7,500 metres. A route has been planned which aims to combine the least possible disruption for the people of Almeria with an unparalleled environment for the participants.

In addition to raising funds, the event aims to promote healthy living and introduce young participants to the benefits of sport.

Language festivities

THE University of Almeria’s Language Centre recently celebrated a series of intercultural events.

They included special days such as Francophonie Day, English Language Day, and Spanish Language Day, alongside the globally recognised Book Day on Tuesday, April 23.

The highlights included an engaging workshop titled ‘English and Theatre: learning with fun’, led by Susana Nicolas Roman, which explored the signi cance of theatre in mastering a second foreign language. This was complemented by a traditional brunch and a lively Pub Quiz competition.

Further enriching the cultural experience, the centre hosted a game of Cluedo, emphasising language practice in a fun setting.

Carmina Garcia, the director of the centre, emphasised the importance of these activities, which provided students with varied opportunities to train their knowledge of foreign languages in contexts other than the classroom.

To cap o the vibrant series, the centre hosted a gastronomic gathering and games for Spanish language students which provided immersive encounters with Spain’s rich culinary and linguistic heritage.

Smart parking

NEARLY 3,000 sensors now enable motorists in central Almeria to nd open surface parking spots in real-time. Launched on Tuesday, April 16, the ‘Almeria Smart Mobility’ app and citizen portal has been developed in Spanish and English. Described by Mayor Maria del Mar Vazquez as a milestone in Almeria’s driving experience, the initiative aims for a ‘more e cient, sustainable, agile and safe’ mobility across the city.

This tool is a component of the ‘Almeria Ciudad Smart Mobility’ Strategy, funded by the European Union, Next Generation funds, and the Almeria City Council with an investment exceeding €4 million. It introduces a range of intelligent tra c and mobility management services, including AI-driven systems and real-time parking information. Mayor Vazquez praised the ‘painstaking’ work behind this innovation, stating, “An intelligent mobility system, through an application that any user can download for free, which will allow us, before using our vehicle, to know the tra c and parking situation in real-time from our phone or tablet.”

This high-tech approach is set to streamline tra c management and enhance environmental monitoring, providing data on congestion, air quality, and alternative route suggestions.

Streamlining traffic management.

300 Km Solidarity trek

ON Tuesday, April 16, the Provincial Council of Almeria unveiled its ‘Sendero SULAYR’ initiative, a charity-driven activity aimed at boosting social awareness.

The project involved around 35 cancer patients, either in recovery or post-recovery, embarking on a 300-kilometre trek around the Sierra Nevada natural park, touching nine municipalities including Abla, Abrucena, Bayarcal, Beires, Fiñana, Fondon, Laujar de Andarax, Ohanes and Paterna del RioOn

Angel Escobar, vice president and deputy of Social Welfare, described how the event bene ted people ghting the disease. The trek not only encouraged healthy living and rural sustainability but also helps the ght against the depopulation challenges in these areas.

Antonio Martos from Caixabank highlighted the project’s uplifting goal, ‘to give a positive message to cancer patients’, from others ‘who are overcoming the disease or have already overcome it by taking on important challenges.’

The trek which was divided into three stages, started on April 20 in Puerto de la Ragua and nishes there on May 4. A documentary of the event will capture the participants’ journeys, symbolising their ght against cancer and highlighting their determination to win.

Presentation of the ‘RUTA 091 - Bicentennial Edition.’

Chips outrage

A 30-SECOND ad vert for Italian crisp brand ‘Amica Chips’ which was filmed in a church has been dee med blasphemous.

The association of Catholic television viewers asked Aiart (the Italian Television Broadcasters Associa tion) to block it. Accor ding to the association, the video, “offends the religious sensibility of millions of practising Catholics.” In a press release published on its official website, Aiart then lodged a protest against the commer cial made by Amica Chips.

novice nuns, (with Schubert’s Ave Maria playing in the background), making their way to the altar of a convent church to receive communion. Instead of the host, however, one of the nuns has replaced them with crisps, which the priest distributes to the novices. Meanwhile, the same nun who swapped the host for chips eats them straight from the bag. The commercial is then accompanied by the slogan ‘Amica Chips the daily divine’.

What caused the con troversy was not the version of the commer cial that aired on TV, but rather the one on social media, posted on the company’s YouTube and Instagram channel.

The disputed adverti sement shows a group of

Shortly after the Aiart protest the ad was censored on social media and the company resorted to the television version where the comparison between the crisp and the host is not so blatant. Since then however, Amica Chips has decided to remove it completely, although not before getting even more publicity than they could have imagined.

Photo: Screenshot, YouTube

Cheers!

SIXTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD David Clarkson, originally from the UK but living in Australia for over 40 years, set a new record by visiting 120 pubs in just 24 hours.

David beat the previous record of 99 pubs, held by Australians Harry Kooros and Jake Loiterton.

He did this pub tour in Sydney, Australia.

David, a retired accountant from Lancashire, says his life revolves around “travel, drinking, and spreadsheets.”

He used his accounting skills to carefully plan his route using licensing data, tables, and Google Maps.

Driven by his love for exploring and the many interesting pubs in Sydney, David felt con dent in taking on this challenge, citing his experience.

His journey started on Thursday, April 11, at midday, with a drink at the Captain Cook Hotel.

He walked to all 120 pubs on his list.

At each pub, David had to buy a drink and drink at least 125 ml of liquid.

He drank a total of 20 litres, mostly soft drinks and juices.

David had friends as witnesses at

each pub, and sta signed his logbook.

Pete Fairbairn from Guinness World Records joined him at the start and end to verify his attempt.

David’s cheerful attitude caught the attention of other pub-goers, and he particularly enjoyed the speakeasy bars on Clarence Street.

He nished his journey the next day at the Sussex Garden Bar, less than a kilometre from where he started.

Pete reviewed the evidence and ocially declared David the record holder, marking the end of his impressive achievement.

From flush to fly!

WIZZ AIR has teamed up with a British company to look into using human waste to make fuel for planes.

They want to change the way we fly.

The Hungarian airline is working with Firefly Green Fuels, a UK biofuel company, to figure out how to turn sewage waste into a type of fuel called sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Firefly Green Fuels has come up with a way to change waste from sewers into fuel that planes can use.

They plan to start supplying this fuel by

2028.

Wizz Air’s UK division will get up to 525,000 tonnes of this fuel over 15 years.

This new method uses waste to make SAF, which has a much smaller carbon footprint than regular jet fuel, about 70 per cent less.

While it won’t fully replace normal fuel, planes can mix it with regular fuel without needing to change their engines, up to a maximum of 50 per cent.

Although making SAF from human waste is better for the environment, it’s currently

more expensive than regular jet fuel.

James Hygate, the CEO of Firefly, knows using waste is unusual, but he sees it as a valuable resource.

Firefly is getting approval to use their system to fuel planes, and they’re confident it will work.

They plan to help supply a lot of SAF in the UK and hope this idea will catch on worldwide.

Wizz Air wants to use SAF for at least 10 per cent of its flights by 2030, in line with a rule from the UK government.

David Clarkson set a new record.

Image: Guinness World Records Changing the way we fly.

Image: Wizz Air / Facebook.

FINLAND’S Helsinki-Vantaa Airport has recently won a prestigious accolade from Skytrax, the London-based organisation that monitors the quality and public perception of the aviation industry.

On Wednesday, April 17, Helsinki Airport was declared the best in Northern Europe for its passenger ex-

Helsinki airport is the best

perience, an award presented to Finavia, the airport’s management company, at a ceremony in Frankfurt.

Ulla Serlenius, the Executive Director of Helsinki Airport, commented: “It is wonderful that air passengers have once again chosen

Helsinki-Vantaa as the best airport in Northern Europe!”

Helsinki’s success is underpinned by its consistent recognition at various industry awards. Serlenius added: “Already this year, we have been able to cele-

brate the selection of Helsinki-Vantaa as the best airport in Europe in its size category. It is clear that our airport has a strong position among the best airports in the world.”

The accolade is based on a Skytrax survey, which as-

sessed the services at over 550 airports globally from August 2023 to March 2024.

The survey focused on passenger feedback across several aspects including check-in, security, and the availability of shopping and dining options.

This in-depth analysis has showcased Helsinki Airport’s dedication to enhancing passenger services, following signi cant upgrades to its facilities.

2024 has indeed been an eventful year for Helsinki Airport. This latest honour marks the seventh occasion Helsinki Airport has topped the list in Northern Europe.

UK leads interest

Credit: Pickpik

Amy Watts

DATA sourced from property portal idealista reveals the largest proportion of searches for luxury homes in Portugal come from the United Kingdom, amounting to 11.9 per cent of total international demand at the outset of 2024.

Following closely are the USA (11.2 per cent), Germany (10.2 per cent), Spain (9.2 per cent), and France (8.6 per cent).

the USA was one of the top nationalities taking advantage of Golden Visas from 2012 until September 2023, as reported by the now-defunct Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF).

The other main customers for Golden Visas were predominantly investors from China, South Africa, Brazil and Turkey, which now represent less than one per cent of investment in the luxury sector.

This is a slight uptick from the UK compared to the previous year (up 0.8 per cent), while interest from the USA has waned (4 per cent down).

This was to be expected, given that

Research indicates a substantial Brazilian interest in luxury homes in Portugal in recent years, accounting for 6.2 per cent of the total demand in the rst quarter of 2024.

Luxury properties.

Celebrating King’s Day

MORE than 100 years of celebrating the changing faces of the Dutch monarchy, King’s Day approaches once again on April 27.

The Netherlands are charging up for one of the largest festivities in the country, celebrating the birthday of the reigning King, Willem-Alexander.

King’s Day is an unusually changing tradition, which was first celebrated on August 31, 1885, in honour of Princess Wilhelmina’s birthday, and was moved to April 30 after her daughter Juliana ascended to the throne.

Today, it celebrates the birthday of the current King of the Netherlands but the festivities last much longer than one day.

Get paid to sleep!

THE German Aerospace Centre (DLR) in Cologne is seeking volunteers.

Participants are needed to join in a groundbreaking bed rest study scheduled to commence in September 2024, spanning two months.

The pre-party; King’s Night, lights up the streets with live music and dancing, as well as some free festivals, including The Life I Live in The Hague or the Royal Dutch in Eindhoven.

On the King’s birthday, cities which have canals fill up with boats, where people dressed in orange; the Dutch national colour, party on usually the only functioning public transport throughout the festivity.

Flea markets and concerts are on just about every street corner across the country, and the royal family can often be spotted in public; strengthening the relationship between the royalty and the public through celebration.

In exchange for their commitment, participants will receive compensation of €18,000 for their time and contribution.

However, there’s a twist to this study: participants will be required to spend 60 days lying in bed at an inclined angle of six degrees, with their feet positioned higher than their heads.

This setup is designed to simulate the e ects of space on the human body, replicating the conditions experienced by astronauts.

According to Edwin Mulder, the head of the study at the DLR Institute of Aerospace Medicine, this inclined position induces similar shifts in body uids as observed in space.

King’s Day in Amsterdam.

Home with privacy, incredible views, and fabulous sunsets in the Murcia area

Recently Reduced Price, Unique Opportunity

Are you looking for a dream home with privacy, incredible views, and fabulous sunsets in the Murcia area, not too far from fabulous services?  This may be the home you are looking for.

Incredible 241m2 build property, in a prestigious location. Viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate its quality and stunning location.  A property full of light and space, Currently the home has four bedrooms, and can easily be five, built over two levels.  The perfect living for a large family or just people who love the outdoors.

On the ground floor, entrance hall, large lounge living room, fully fitted kitchen with dining area, two double bedrooms and one bathroom, third bedroom is currently used as a storeroom.

A staircase leads to the first floor, a large mezzanine landing, just waiting to become a bedroom, master bedroom with access to roof terrace, with an ensuite

bathroom. An immense home, conservatory sun room, east facing swimming pool which is 8m x 4m in size with Roman steps, double garage, brick built BBQ with adjacent laundry room, pergola, set on a plot of over 20,000m2 (two hectares).

Tarmac access to the house, with the

exception of the last 200 metres which is by a dirt track, leads to an electric gate which opens to the front of the house and leads to gravel area and to a double garage. An approximate surface of 2,000 sqm around the villa has been fenced off. The upper half of this huge plot is taken up

with established pine trees and the lower half area is where the house, pool, and garage are located. The remainder of the land is taken up with almond trees. The almond trees and land are maintained by a local farmer.

Situated on the outskirts of the pretty village, Zarzadilla De Totana, Lorca, Murcia, Spain. Just a five-minute drive from the property, various amenities (health centre, chemist, bars, supermarket, bakery, tobacconist and a fountain, a constant source of natural spring water from the mountains.

Just 15 minutes from the historic university town of Lorca. The beaches of Puerto de Mazarron and Aguilas are 50 minutes away. A number of golf courses within easy driving distance. The airports of Murcia and Alicante, are around an hour away. The regional capital Murcia City is under an hour away.

Contact us now for a full information pack in regard to this fabulous property. Call 950 466 112.

Patios of Cordoba

ANDALUCIAN patios are true jewels of Spanish architecture and culture, especially during the spring, when temperatures become warmer and plants begin to bloom. These courtyards become true oases of colour and fragrance which is why Cordoba organises a competition every year to choose the most beautiful one in the town.

A total of 52 patios will open their doors for the Competition of Patios of Cordoba 2024, which include 23 patios of historic architecture, 20 modern ones and nine unique ones. The opening and closing times of the courtyards is from 11am until 2pm and from 6pm to 10pm during each day of the festival.

Admission is free and you will only have to wait in line to gain access. It is recommended to be there early in the morning to avoid crowds and the high temperatures that usually occur on these days.

Due to the dry and hot climate of Cordoba, the inhabitants of the city, first the Romans and later the Muslims, adapted the typology of their houses centred around a courtyard, which normally had a fountain in the centre and on many occasions a well to collect rainwater. The Muslims readapted this scheme by making the entrance to the house from the street through a hallway and adding abundant plants to increase the sensation of freshness.

Since 1921, during the first fortnight of May, Cordoba Council has organised a competition, in which the owners of the patios decorate their homes with a multitude of flowers planted in flowerbeds and pots, which are hung on the walls or placed on the typical Cordoban paving.

More information is available at the website - https://patios.cordoba.es

BEAUTIFUL COURTYARDS: A competition is organised every year.

Photo: Cordoba Town Hall

Barceló invests No joint smoking in stations

CANNABIS: No smoking to be allowed in railway stations.

DESPITE the general legalisation of cannabis, the German national railway company aims to restrict its consumption at stations.

The Deutsche Bahn house rules are being adapted accordingly, and violations will be prosecuted from June 1.

Public cannabis consumption is already banned during the day in pedestrian zones or in the vicinity of schools and playgrounds.

The Deutsche Bahn restrictions are designed to protect travellers at stations, especially children and young people. Thus, a general ban on the consumption of cannabis in train stations will be introduced.

The restrictions will not apply to medical use of cannabis, which is already permitted and will continue to be so.

In about four weeks’ time, the new house rules should be ready and legally valid. Until then, railway employees will approach passengers with the polite request to refrain from consuming cannabis.

A general ban on smoking in railway stations has been in place since 2007, with smoking only allowed in specially designated areas.

According to the railway, of a total of 400 out of 5,400 stations presently have smoking areas.

Annie Christmas THE Barceló Hotel Group is set to inject €50 million into acquiring and revamping two hotels in Madeira.

The Mallorcan group plans to construct a new four-star hotel in Funchal’s historic centre, adjacent to Mercado dos Lavradores, with an anticipated debut in 2025, marketed under the Occidental brand.

In a separate project, the Quinta das Vistas Palace Gardens Hotel will be refurbished. It is soon to be rebranded as the Quinta Funchal Palace Garden Hotel under the Royal Hideaway banner, slated for a grand opening in 2026.

These developments mark a significant expansion for the group in Madeira, bringing its portfolio to four hotels spanning Royal Hideaway Hotels &

Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resort, and Allegro Hotels.

The Barceló Group was founded in 1931 in Palma de Mallorca. It is a leading hotel business

both in Spain and on the global market, with four brands and more than 105 four- and five-star hotels. The group is currently run by the third generation of the Barceló family.

Trains no longer run on time

THE cliché that the trains always run on time in Germany is no longer true.

The latest network status report for the state-owned Deutsche Bahn revealed crumbling infrastructure, with almost half the signal boxes in poor condition, leading to onethird of its trains running late.

New developments in train design, digitalisation and the stations of the future were presented on April 17 at the Kraftwerk events venue in a repurposed power plant in Berlin.

The use of AI technology is expected to streamline

engineering works, particularly highlighted by the planned overhaul of the 78km stretch between Frankfurt and Mannheim scheduled for after the Euro 2024.

Enhancements are also focused on improving passenger comfort. A new

two-seater compartment with sliding privacy doors and adjustable tint controls could be installed in long-distance trains in the future to allow greater privacy.

Another new feature is scent buttons located in doorways and lifts at stations to improve passenger mood and real-time occupancy displays on long-distance trains. Travellers can bag their seat with a ‘digital towel’ during their entire journey, even without a seat reservation, by setting the display to ‘Occupied from <station> until’.

Immigrants refuse aid

YOU literally couldn’t make up a story about illegal immigrants in an overcrowded boat telling Belgian coastguards that they don’t want to be rescued until they get to the UK.

the people on the boat to turn back because the situation was too dangerous, but they had no intention of stopping.

This was reported by Belgian TV station VRT News on the morning of Monday April 15 as no less than 57 men and women were spotted on a large dinghy in the North Sea.

“We talked to them, but we cannot force them to turn back. The boat is overcrowded, there are people sitting on the edge. If you intervene, the boat could capsize. Safety is the most important thing.”

As reported by VRT, Belgian Coastguard press officer Peter Van Camp explained that following reports to police of sightings of the boat, “The emergency services immediately set sail from the ports of Nieuwpoort and Ostend in an attempt to convince

For these reasons and the obvious determination of those on board, the authorities decided to escort the dinghy to British waters and to then hand over the rescue duties to the UK coastguard who they had previously alerted.

Belgian coastguard service escorted the immigrants.

Villa Palma near Huercal-Overa

NEW & EXCLUSIVE TO

VOSS HOMES - A large, uniquely designed three bed, two bath, country villa with H&C air con, central heating throughout, 8m x 4m swimming pool and amazing country views on generous sized private, walled and gated garden of 1,294m2. Six mins drive to the village of Santa Maria with shop, 2 bar / restaurants, doctors, chemist and school.

Fifteen mins drive to the A7 motorway and market town of Huercal-Overa. Forty to 45 mins drive to the coast at San Juan de Los Terreros, Mojacar, Garrucha and Vera.

Villa Palma has the benefits of a new villa and all the character of a traditional country house with high beamed ceilings, rustic tiles and wooden windows and doors throughout.

Access into the property is via an electric sliding metal gate on to the driveway with room for two cars. Also on the driveway are two small block built storage sheds for tools etc.

Walking around the side of the villa takes you to the main garden with amazing country views. A striking feature are the mature palm trees around the garden. There is a large meshed enclosure which co-

vers the 8m x 4m swimming pool and surrounding terracing with plenty of room for sunbathing, dining and entertaining. The enclosure can be removed if required. Walking further around the villa takes you to the ‘gardening’ area with plenty of room for planting fruit and vegetables with raised beds for ease. There is an automatic watering system and a pathway leads back round to the driveway.

The main entrance into the

house is conveniently next to the driveway and leads into a hall / utility room and then into the spacious kitchen with huge amounts of worktop and storage space.

A doorway leads through to the huge living room and dining room with log burning fire. There are double doors leading out to the garden and pool area. Also between the kitchen and this room is an attractive archway. The high ceilings really add character to

the house.

In the dining / living room a hallway leads you to the bedrooms and bathrooms.There is a main bedroom with an ensuite shower room.

There are two guest double bedrooms and a family bathroom. All three bedrooms have built in wardrobes. The main bedroom and one of the guest bedrooms has H&C aircon. Also in the hallway is another entrance door going out to the front driveway.

For more information and to arrange a viewing of VH2331 please contact Voss Homes on 0034 950 616 827 or email us onenquiries@vosshomesspain.com.

INTERVIEW

People are friendly

In 2020, Caroline Rindeström and her family made the bold decision to relocate to Spain.

HAVING spent countless vacations in the picturesque Torrevieja region, basking in the warmth of the sun and indulging in various sporting activities, the family found themselves enchanted by the idea of permanently settling in this vibrant country. Fuelled by their belief in the potential to introduce their unique chiropractic methodology from Sweden and establish a holistic haven for wellness, they set out to turn their dream into reality.

invaluable quality time she gets to spend with her loved ones. The abundance of daylight hours coupled with the Spanish schedule allows her and her partner to enjoy the cherished ritual of having breakfasts with their children

La Tamborrada

Caroline Rindeström.

Although Caroline states that the first year was challenging, there was an undeniable sense of excitement in immersing themselves in the exploration of a foreign culture and landscape. She misses her loved ones and sometimes the green forest.

One aspect that Caroline particularly treasures about their life in Spain is the

Without a doubt, Caroline finds immense joy in her Spanish experience, revelling in the abundant sunshine, learning the language and savouring the delectable cuisine, particularly her favourite - seafood. She candidly admits that she cannot envision returning to Sweden.

“The people here,” she remarks, “are remarkably open-minded, friendly, and approachable. It’s heartwarming how you can exchange a simple ‘hola’ with everyone you meet at the supermarket. There’s a genuine warmth and familiarity that permeates daily interactions.”

ON January 20 each year, its Patron Saint’s Day, the people of San Sebastian (also known in the Basque language as Donostia) celebrate La Tambo rrada where up to 15,000 locals ga ther together and beat drums all day and night.

Local clubs vie with each other to offer the most spectacu lar event as they march through the city dressed in traditional Basque costumes, chefs outfits or 19th century military uniforms.

Like most events of this type, the origin is forgotten but one of the most plausible reasons is that La Tamborrada was introduced at the start of the 19th century during the Pe-

ninsula War when Napoleon’s troops entered the city and women banged buckets.

The drumming and parades start at midnight in the Plaza de la Constitución with the city flag being raised and the first group of drummers play the Marcha de San Sebastián as a signal to the other groups that they can start and that’s it for the next 24 hours. At noon on January 20, children from various schools, also dressed to impress and with their own special ‘tamborrada infantil’ set off en route for the City Hall where they converge and add to the cacophony of sound. Then at midnight the march is played again, the flag is lowered and that’s the end.

La Tamborrada in San Sebastian..+ The youngsters start at noon.

Credit: MerZab CC Credit: Estitxu Carton

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Going bananas

THE ‘banana bag’ which proved a hit with Gen Z and millennials was responsible for UK and European sales that reached £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion) for Japanese retailer Uniqlo over the year that ended on August 31, 2023. Founded by Tadashi Yanai in 1984, Uniqlo now has more than 2,400 stores worldwide.

Rainy day

THE Bank of Spain called on the country’s principal banks to focus more on setting aside funds from their profits to cover potential losses than rewarding shareholders with hefty dividends. Banks had not taken sufficient advantage of the current cycle of record profits to plan for future crises it warned.

US deal

INCHCAPE, the car distribution, sales and services company, is selling its UK retail operations to the US car dealership giant Group 1 Automotive via a cash agreement of around £346 million (€403.8 million). The transaction would enable it to concentrate on becoming a distribution-focused business, Inchcape said.

Ford waits

ON April 15, Ford ceased producingtheTransitConnect van which accounted for 30 per cent of vehicles made at the Almussafes (Valencia) plant, with 63,239 leaving the assembly line in 2023. Employees now wait to learn more details of the new multienergy model they were promised at the end of March.

Fewer bubbles

FRENCH company LVMH, synonymous with luxury items, reported a 16 per cent dip in wine and spirit sales which slid to €1.4 billion in 2024’s first quarter. The owner of Dom Perignon, Moet & Chandon, Krug and Veuve Clicquot said this was an inevitable result of the “normalisation” of post-Covid demand when sales soared.

STAT OF WEEK

€2 BILLION

will be paid out in dividends by ACS Group, the Spanish civil engineering and construction group, between 2024 and 2026, chief executive Juan Santamaria announced.

Data replaces batteries Steel deal

THE site of what was to be Britain’s first gigafactory in Blyth (Northumberland) has been sold to US private equity investors.

Northumberland County Council announced that it had sold the land to Blackstone, which will build a data centre there.

The land in Cambois near Blyth was earmarked for a £3.8 billion (€4.45 billion) Britishvolt factory making batteries for electric vehicles before the company collapsed into administration in January 2023 with the loss of 200 jobs.

At the time, Britishvolt, backed by Swiss mining

multinational Glencore, was due to receive £100 million (€117.18 million) in the UK government fun ding.

Australian company, Recharge Industries ba sed in Geelong (Austra lia), agreed to take on Britishvolt after finalising a deal with the company’s administrators, renewing hopes of building the Blyth gigafactory.

Instead, Recharge received a winding-up petition in March 2024 as former senior executives reclaimed unpaid wages.

A month earlier, auditors EY said Recharge defaulted on the agreement and had yet to pay the £8.75 million (€10.25 million) that was owed on the deal. Since then nothing appeared to have moved at the 235acre Blyth site. Northumberland

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) suspended trading in Naturgy shares for two hours on the morning of April 17.

It was reported that the halt was ordered while awaiting “disclosure of relevant information.” This followed rumours of a possible takeover by Abu Dhabi’s TAQA, which was in discussions with Criteria, one of Naturgy’s majority shareholders.

Trading resumed after the government-controlled energy holding company contacted the CNMV, referring to “recent speculations in the Press regarding Naturgy.”

TAQA confirmed it was talking to

County Council did not disclose financial details of the Blackstone transaction, although receivers Begbies Traynor Group which oversaw the sale, said it was “complex.”

Council leader Glen Sanderson said the Blackstone data centre would bring an investment of up to £10 billion (€11.7 billion) and provide around 4,300 jobs.

“This really unique opportunity for Northumberland offers a huge boost to the regeneration and renaissance of the local area,” Sanderson said.

Cut unlikely Reboot needed Naturgy takeover

DR MARTENS shares plunged 29.4 per cent as the bootmaker issued its fifth profit warning since 2021.

The company expects a tough time with rising overheads and falling US sales as shares slump to 62 pence (approximately €0.72), compared with £3.70 (€4.32) when Dr Martens was floated three years ago.

The outlook was “challenging,” a spokesperson admitted.

Chief executive, Kenny Wilson, in place for six years, will leave at the end of the financial year to be replaced by Ije Nwokorie, currently chief brand officer.

UK inflation fell in March but not enough to underpin hopes of a lower bank rate in the near future.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) announced that the consumer prices index (CPI) fell from February’s 3.4 per cent to 3.2 per cent, a two-and-a half-year low but less than analysts’ 3.1 per cent prediction.

Services’ inflation, which the Bank of England (BoE) watches with an eagle eye, fell from 6.1 per cent to 6 per cent in March, disappointing City expectations of 5.8 per cent.

Tomasz Wieladek, chief European economist with the asset manager T Row Price, told the Guardian that the BoE would be “worried” that the inflation battle was not yet won.

Services’ inflation would concern the BoE and make it cautious about cutting rates this summer, Wieladek said.

SPANISH steelmaker Acerinox is buying US nickel and cobalt alloy specialist Haynes in a €740 million deal.

The operation carried out by Acerinox’s US subsidiary North American Stainless (NA), has approval from US anti-trust regulators and was ratified at the Haynes’ shareholder meeting in April, Acerinox said. A routine revision of Haynes books by external auditors is all that remains pending.

The purchase will be fully-funded with existing cash on Acerinox’s balance sheet, it revealed when the deal was announced in February, and the takeover is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2024, the Spanish company said.

Caixabank’s holding company regarding a possible cooperation pact related to Naturgy, while admitting there had also been “conversations” with two other major shareholders, CVC Capital Partners and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) who between them own 41 per cent of Naturgy.

“No agreement has been reached with Criteria, CVC or GIP,” TAQA stressed, although even before the CNMV suspension, Nuturgy shares were up 1.3 per cent at €21.8.

Win some

LA LIGA, the 42 professional football teams which belong to Spain’s First and Second Division, are in the black for the first time in two seasons.

Fully recovered from the pandemic, the teams reported an accumulated net profit of €200 million between them for their financial year ending June 2023.

Nevertheless, Barcelona, whose corporative operations amounted to €808 million and ended the season with a €300 million profit, generated much of these gains, La Liga revealed.

La Liga also predicted that the present season would almost certainly return to negative figures in 2023-2024, with losses of approximately €300 million.

CATALONIA-BASED Miura intends to sell off Citri&Co, the largest citrus fruit company in Spain.

After several months of sounding out the markets, the private equity firm has commissioned investment bank Lazard to organise the €1 billion sale of a group created in 2016 from the long-established Castellon company Martinavarro plus the later addition of Rio Tinto and other, smaller operators.

Citri&Co, which is present in 70 countries, has a workforce of 12,000 and 22,000 hectares of land under production, with Spain accounting for 30 per cent of its earnings.

Troubled water

THAMES WATER, which has a £15.6 billion (€18.2 billion) debt pile, must prepare and negotiate a business plan with Ofwat before May 23. This is when the water services regulator holds its last board meeting prior to announcing how much companies will be able to charge customers.

Before then, the beleaguered water company intends to publish a five-year spending plan which, once it has been approved by the Thames Water Board will talk to lenders as its looks for ways of funding its rescue proposals.

Photo credit: Naturgy

Photo credit: BritishVolt

BRITISHVOLT: Old Blyth site will become a data centre.

NATURGY: Possible takeover by Abu Dhabi’s TAQA.

Going North

VINCI, Gatwick’s French owner, is buying a 50.1 per cent stake in Edinburgh Airport for a reported £1.27 billion (€1.48 billion) from its owners, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP). GIP will retain the remaining 49.99 per cent stake and Edinburgh Airport’s chairman Sir John Elvidge and chief executive Gordon Dewar will remain in their roles.

Solid growth

BANKINTER announced a net profit of €200.8 million in the first quarter of 2024, a record increase of 8.7 per cent on the same period in 2023. As the bank had anticipated, growth was slower than in 2023, although its net interest income has continued growing at double-digit rates, chief executive Gloria Ortiz said.

Royal Mail offer

ROYAL MAIL’s owner International Distributions Services (IDS) has received a takeover offer for the beleaguered postal service from Czech billionaire, Daniel Kretinsky.

His EP Group, with holdings in Sainsbury’s and West Ham United football club, issued a statement on April 17 which, without mentioning the sums involved, revealed Kretinsky had approached IDS on April 9.

“While EP Group’s pro-

Burger King losses

RESTAURANT BRANDS IBERIA (RBI), which owns Spain’s Burger King outlets, lost €12.2 million in 2023.

This was double 2022’s losses despite a record turnover of €1.88 billion, according to RBI’s annual accounts submitted to Spain’s Registro Mercantil, equivalent to Companies House.

The negative figures were the result of the company’s €90.8 million finance

costs, which were 127 per cent more

than in 2022. Of this, €68.5 million corresponded to interest paid on a €310 million loan from RBI’s sole shareholder, the private equity firm Cinven, whose parent company is based in London.

“The net results reflect an increase in our loan payments and debt incurred though our strategy of openings and acquisitions,” RBI said.

posal was rejected by the Board of IDS, it looks forward to continuing to engage constructively with the board as EP Group considers all its options,” the communique said.

This went on to say that EP Group viewed the UK as “an attractive and dynamic market for investment” and was proud to support the businesses in which it invested. These include Royal Mail through EP Group-owned VESA Equity, which has a 27.6 per cent stake in IDS.

“EP Group recognises that Royal Mail is in a challenging situation,” the statement said, pointing out that increasing competition from multinational companies in the UK postal market, private investment in Royal Mail becomes crucial.

As news of Kretinsky’s proposal broke, IDS shares rose by 20 per cent to 257p (€3) valuing the company at £2.47 billion (€2.89 billion).

Student digs

BROOKFIELD, the Canadian investment management company, is preparing the €1 billion sale of Livensa, its Spanish company specialising in student accommodation that was launched in 2018. The process is expected to begin over the next few months but will not be completed until 2025.

Growth

THE private health insurance market grew by £385 million (€450 million) in the UK as the NHS’s problems drive people to seek private medical and dental treatment, according to health data provider LaingBuisson. In all, the private health and dental sector grew 6.1 per cent to £6.7 billion (€7.8 billion) in 2022, the last year with available figures.

ROYAL MAIL: Takeover offer from Czech billionaire.

Photo credit: Flickr/Bazzadarambler

ALMERIA

Cooltural Fest

THE Cooltural Fest in Almeria has been nominated for the ‘Best Event of the Year’ award by the Academy of Music. This prestigious nomination comes after the festival won ‘Best Contribution to Equality’ at the Iberian Awards. Cooltural Fest has been recognised for its efforts to improve each year since its inception in 2018.

The Academy received 2,629 applications for various awards, demonstrating the significance of the event. The nominations were announced on March 22 at the WiZink Centre in Madrid, with over 200 professionals nominated across 43 categories.

Ten nomination committees, comprised of 72 experts in the music industry, worked diligently to select the nominees. Now, the voting phase involves more than 800 members of the Academy, who will decide the winners. The results will be revealed live at the awards ceremony, ensuring transparency and confidentiality in the process.

The Spanish Academy of Music Awards aim to recognise talent and excellence in all aspects of music creation and dissemination. They cover various categories including live music, tours, arrangements, and different music genres such as flamenco, jazz, and classical music.

Led by musician Luis Cobos, the Academy was established to represent and support the music industry in Spain. These awards, held annually, aspire to become the most significant in the music sector, celebrating individuals and institutions for their contributions to Spanish, Ibero-American, and world music.

RECENTLY, the Alman zora Group of Friends organised a coach trip to the Oasys theme park, formerly known as Mini Hollywood, near Ta bernas. This iconic location has hosted iconic films from A Fistful of Dollars to Lawrence of Arabia.

The group had time to explore the Wes tern town before the western show and enjoyed attractions such as a gold mine, museums, and shops.

The town square hos ted a cowboy stunt show at noon, drama tising the last moments of Jesse James with gun fights and a staged han ging. Following this, they took their places in the Yellow Rose Saloon and were entertained with a lively cancan performance.

Hollywood connections Lions bash

The afternoon also allowed time to explore the extensive zoological reserve, featuring over 800 species and a central waterfall, exemplifying the park’s commitment to education and con-

servation. The park’s history as a filming location extends beyond these sets. Almeria City and the surrounding areas have also been used for films like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and series such as Game of Thrones. As the day ended and they returned home, tired but happy

For anyone who wants to be a part of the Almanzora Group of Friends family, contact 602 495 306.

Western re-enactment

JOIN the Vera Lions for a Party in the Park on Sunday, April 28 at El Palmeral Park in Vera. Enjoy a fantastic day out for just €5; children aged 12 and under enter free. Gates open at 1.00pm, with music in the Chill Out Bar starting at 1.30pm and on the main stage at 2.00pm. The event will also feature a variety of artisan stalls alongside a selection of hot and cold food.

Spring activities

CUEVAS EL ALMANZORA offers an array of cultural activities this spring, providing over 20 options for residents and visitors. Mayor Antonio Fernandez Liria and Tourism, Culture, and Heritage Mayor Juana Haro announced the extensive programme, running until June, at the Emilio Sdun Workshop Museum, one of the town’s vibrant exhibition spaces.

The aim is to showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage through diverse activities, including guided tours of historical sites, exhibitions, conferences, theatre performances, book launches, workshops, and more. Encouraging active participation, the council invites everyone to explore Cuevas’s cultural spaces, making it a hub of the provincial cultural scene.

On April 27, visitors can join a guided tour of the famous ‘Prison Graffiti of the Tower of Homage’ and on April 29, the Municipal School of Music, Dance, and Theatre will host a dance gala to celebrate International Dance Day.

The cultural programme extends until June, with schedules and activities available on the Cuevas Town Council website for those interested in taking part.

There will be outstanding entertainment across two stages, featuring local artists who are generously donating their time to support the community. Artists appearing include Fiona Vickers, DnA Acoustic Duo, Los Bandidos, Reflection Lite and Filabres Mountain Dare Devils. Come and show your support!

Pitches for the artisan market are free, anyone wishing to book a stall must register beforehand, email: lionsshopturre@gmail.com or WhatsApp Andy on 711 005 682.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the tombola is encouraged to drop their gifts into the Lions charity shop in Turre. And the food stalls are gratefully accepting home-made cakes and cookies.

Advance tickets are available at the Lions shop in Turre, Next Stop Almeria in Los Gallardos, Girasol in Albox, CAT Services in Alfoquia, Forget Me Nots in Las Buganvillas, and Emporium de Zoe in Vera. However, entry fees will also be taken at the gate.

Credit: Cooltural Fest

Wonder why that is

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

THE problem with most of the woke brigade is that they are generally so far up their self-righteous soap boxes they categorically refuse to entertain the opinions of others. When arguments or discussions tend to veer away from their points of view, they are always the first to accuse their dissenters of right wing ideals or racism.

They then sit smugly back; fully aware that the discussion is now over and the onus is now on those that disagreed with their rhetoric to explain why they themselves are not racially motivated! It’s a clever ploy, designed to crush the freedom of speech and encouraged by many a political despot over the course of history. Well I don’t buy it, and categorically refuse to yet again waste this short narrative explaining my very strong views on the subject.

I believe in live and let live. As long as it causes no harm to others and doesn’t weaponise my points of view, frankly I really couldn’t care less how anyone

handles their current manifestation. I also have no problem with how people wish to be addressed. Tom, Dick Harry, Fem, Those, Them or Wottsit. It’s truly is all the same to me.

What I do care about however is reserving the right to also refer to myself as I choose. Being pressured to adapt to another individual’s views and opinions is what sticks in my craw. Unfortunately this is often the problem with disgruntled minorities.

Many of them suffer from insecurity or inferiority complexes. Consequently the more of us they can inveigle into embracing their philosophies, the more secure they feel (The mentality of cult!)

To achieve this they need to convince others to either join them or amend their own beliefs. Sooner or later however the majority begin to resent their often lam brained intrusions and demos and their actions begin to achieve the reverse effect. One of the real casualties in this whole diatribe of politically correct ‘uman rights is of course true common sense. I recall The University of Salford issuing a ‘subject matter’ warning for Dickens’

Oliver Twist; in case it causes ‘distress or anxiety’ among literature students. Some time ago, the University of Northampton also issued ‘alert warnings’ to their students about Orwell’s 1984, Dickens Great Expectations and, of all things - Bronte’s Jane Eyre! The University stated that, it has the responsibility to ‘prepare students for potentially sensitive topics of child abuse domestic violence or racial prejudice’. They probably don’t allow winners or losers either!

This is of course not all quite as ridiculous as it sounds. The more they relieve the young of responsibility, the easier they are to manipulate toward their nanny state ideals. Left wing political control is always hovering behind all this undemocratic PC rhetoric. And incidentally, shoving floral bouquets down the barrels of Chinese and Russia’s silos won’t work either! Just to conclude, it was recently announced that 400,000 people a year are leaving the UK.

Well now, I wonder why that is?

Keep the faith

Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com.

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

Will NASA find Nessy

THE Loch Ness Cen tre has reached out to NASA for assistance in a new quest to search for the Loch Ness monster.

Following last year’s extensive search of Loch Ness in the Highlands, which included the cap ture of loud underwater noises and several potential sightings, the centre is eager to enlist NASA’s expertise in their pursuit.

Scheduled to coincide with the 90th anniversary of Sir Edward Mountain’s expedition, the latest search will take place from May 30 to June 2.

Since the inaugural expedition in 1934 by the Watchers of the Monster, over 1,156 sightings have been documented on the official Loch Ness monster register.

Aimee Todd from the Loch Ness Centre ex-

pressed hope that the global community of Nessie hunters would aid in reaching out to NASA via social media.

The centre seeks NASA’s expert guidance to enhance its ongoing quest for answers.

For those unable to participate in the search in person, live cameras on the Visit Inverness Loch Ness website offer an opportunity to be part of the hunt remotely.

Leapy

The Loch Ness Monster has been sought for years.

Image: The Loch Ness Centre / Facebook.

Insights on drought VOX Pop

AS Spain suffers through one of the most difficult drought periods in its history we took to the streets to find out how the lack of rainfall has affected you. We also asked do you think the government could be doing more to tackle the drought.

JOANNE , a retired regular visitor to the Alicante region from the UK said: “We certainly can’t control the amount of rain that’s in the lap of the gods!”

“They could introduce a national grid so water could be moved from places where they have more rain. It would be similar to what they do with electricity, it would be costly but they would only have to set it up once.”

JOSE , a Colombian resident in Asturias and a visitor in the Costa Blanca North area due to family ties. “As a visitor in Alicante, it has been disheartening to see tourist sites like Fonts de l’Algar (one of the best tourist attractions in the area, in my opinion) closed due to the lack of rain. Being just a visitor, unfortunately, I am not aware of all the measures being taken to address the drought in Alicante.”

ELIJAH , an American tourist considering residency in Spain, shared his perspective, noting, “While I haven’t been affected much by the recent lack of rain, I do appreciate the effort that the government and the people put into rationing the water and eliminating waste. I think it builds a strong sense of community, and I have been learning how to be less wasteful myself while I’ve been here. Was a bit of a culture shock at first, but I think it’s the responsible thing to do, and it makes one appreciate their resources more.”

GARY from Manchester said “It hasn’t affected us much. Although we do try to use water responsibly. Some people still hose out their front yards every day. We could never do that!”

LISA a resident of Mazarron said “Well, to be honest, it hasn’t affected us. We have friends that live on the Costa del Sol and they have water cuts at night and limits on their water. They don’t know if they will be able to fill their pools this summer. While it hasn’t rained a lot we haven’t noticed any direct issues because of the lack of water. I guess the gover-

nment is doing something right.”

PAUL

We also bumped into 53-year-old Paul. Originally from the UK, Paul has been living in Alicante for over 20 years. He confirmed: “It is concer-

“We are being extra careful with our water use at home. There are floods in some parts of the country yet drought in other parts. There must be a way to distribute the water around the country.”

JOSE ROJAS

ELIJAH ECK

JOANNE YEOMANS

Sponsored by

Body art changes

DOES the thought of how a tattoo will age deter you from getting one?

Tattoos, like skin, undergo changes over time due to ageing and sun exposure. As we age, skin loses elasticity and firmness, causing tattoos to stretch and potentially distort. Additionally, colours may fade or blur over the years.

These natural changes can be a concern for some considering tattoos. However, with proper care and thoughtful design choices, tattoos can age gracefully. Opt for bold, simple designs that are less likely to blur over time. Regularly moisturise and protect tattoos from sun exposure to maintain vibrancy.

Ultimately, the de-

cision to get a tattoo should consider long-term commitment and personal preference. While ageing affects tattoos, many embrace these changes as part of their life story. Looking after your tattoo will help it age as gracefully as you do.

A gentle thread technique

FACIAL threa-

ding is a hair removal technique that originated in Eastern cultures and has gained popularity worldwide. It involves using a twisted cotton thread to swiftly remove unwanted facial hair, including fine hairs and peach fuzz, by lifting them from the follicle.

This method is preferred by many for its precision and ability to create defined eyebrow shapes and clean facial contours. Unlike waxing or tweezing, threading is less likely to cause

or allergic reactions as it does not involve chemicals or harsh ingredients.

Facial threading is relatively quick and can be done on various areas of the face, such as the eyebrows, upper lip, chin,

and cheeks. It’s important to seek out a skilled and experienced threader to ensure a comfortable and effective hair removal experience with minimal discomfort and long-lasting results.

Shutterstock/ dean bertoncelj

Fitness knows no age

STARTING a gym routine later in life offers numerous benefits for physical health and overall well-being. Regular exercise can improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of age-related ailments like heart disease and osteoporosis.

Gym workouts also boost mood and mental clarity, enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress. It’s never too late to reap these rewards, regardless of age or fitness level.

When beginning a gym routine as an older adult, start gradually and consult with a fitness professional to tailor a programme to your needs and limitations. Focus on low-impact activities like swimming, yoga, or walking to build endurance and confidence.

With dedication and perseverance, anyone can enjoy the transformative benefits of fitness, proving that age is just a number on the journey to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

CHOOSING between cream and powder make-up products depends on individual preferences and skin types. Cream products, like foundations and blushes, offer a dewy, hydrating finish ideal for dry or mature skin. They blend easily and provide a natural, luminous look.

Make-up texture debate

On the other hand, powder products, such as setting powders, eyeshadows, and bronzers, are excellent for oily or combination skin. They help control shine and set make-up for a matte finish. Powder formulas are also preferred in hot and humid climates for their long-lasting properties.

For a versatile make-up routine, consider using both cream and powder products strategically. Use cream blushes and highlighters for a youthful glow, then set with translucent powder for longevity. Experiment with different textures to discover what works best for your skin type and desired make-up look.

Quick fix saviour?

DRY shampoo offers convenience and freshness without water, making it ideal for quick touch-ups between regular washes. It absorbs excess oil, adds volume, and extends the time between washes, saving time and water. Additionally, dry shampoo can provide texture and grip for styling.

However, overuse of dry shampoo can lead to product buildup, potentially clogging hair follicles and causing scalp irritation or dryness. It may also leave a visible residue, especially on darker hair colours. Additionally, dry shampoo does not cleanse the scalp as effectively as traditional shampoo, and regular use without proper cleansing can impact scalp health. Use dry shampoo in moderation and pair with regular washing for optimal hair care.

Getting on my nerves

I’VE always fancied going to Australia until I started watching a daytime TV show called Nothing to Declare. Wow what a mad performance it is to get in. I’ve seen people get fined for having a banana in their carry on. There are so many rules and regulations it’s scary. I’m sure that it’s all carefully worked out and mostly necessary. I’ve even seen people have their shoes confiscated until they are treated because they had mud on them. Mind you, some of the stuff punters don’t declare is nuts too (actually you can’t take nuts in either!) Mostly travellers from Asia seem to think that there are no supermarkets or restaurants there. The amount of food they try and smuggle in is incredible. Anyway, it’s too far and at my age I can’t afford to lose a day travelling.

Interesting phone call from my daughter the other day who is in Ibiza at present. ‘Dad I’ve just gone to the cash machine and it’s not working and I’ve got no money. Can you send €10 to so and so by Bizum?’ I did it but only because I live in Spain and Bizum

only works in Spain and it was the only way she could get paid apart from cash. I don’t understand how so many people will not listen to me and heed my warning. Do not depend on plastic. Always carry some cash with you. It doesn’t have to be fortunes - €20 minimum. Just do it! I think I’ve seen that phrase used somewhere before. Just watched a remake of a movie called Roadhouse. The original starred the late, great Patrick Swayze and was fantastic. The remake, on the other hand, was a pile of dog doo, terrible and whoever thought Connor McGregor was the right man for the villain should be fired immediately. Stop doing remakes of good movies, it’s a cop out. There must be some great scripts out but it seems someone thinks it’s better to take the lazy way out and ruin a good old action movie.

A message to Ben Affleck’s kid - your grandfather’s funeral reading is not the best time to let everyone know you have decided to change gender. I don’t care what you identify as, that’s your business, and I hope it all works out great for you. But that wasn’t the time or place. This whole entitlement crap is getting on my nerves. Just have a little thought for others.

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

Tarragona’s early saints and spectacles

EVERYONE knows about the attractions of Barcelona, but maybe not those of nearby Tarragona...

In striking contrast to Barcelona’s thrusting hipness, Tarragona’s main appeal stems from the Roman era, when the town, then called Tarraco, was the bustling melting pot of the western Mediterranean and Saint Paul was packing them in with his punchy sermons.

Compared to those hedonistic pagans up the coast, Tarragona has always been a devout kind of town and the sarcophagi and inscribed tablets at the necropolis suggest it got on the Christian bandwagon pretty early. Some of those who hopped aboard a bit too early for their own safety may have ended up in the circus, pitting their faith against the sharp claws of some lions.

And just like the Roman Forum, the amphitheatre is still a spectacular attraction overlooking the sea, with a seating pitch only marginally less steep than in Barcelona’s modern

equivalent, the Camp Nou football stadium. Round off a step back into antiquity with a visit to one of the many cafés where only the exemplary coffee makes any concession to the 21st century.

Speaking of ancient times, did you know that the rabbit was brought to Britain by the Romans, who discovered it in Spain? And that the name ‘España’ derives from the Phoenician expression for ‘land of rabbits’? What a hare-raising thought...

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Couple across the Street’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

TESLA POWERWALL has arrived, and Ecocorp Solar is one of the chosen certified installers to introduce this groundbreaking residential battery to Spain!

In the quest for energy resilience, Tesla Powerwall emerges as a game-changing home battery system seamlessly integrating with solar ins-

tallations. Compact yet high-capacity, this battery enables homes to fully harness solar energy, offering unmatched reliability and design.

More than just a battery, Powerwall ensures uninterrupted power supply. It takes charge during grid outages, seamlessly powering your home and electric vehicle with stored energy. As daylight returns, it effortlessly recharges using sunlight, ensuring continuous operation.

With its stackable design, Powerwall seamlessly blends into any home style and solar system. Whether installed indoors or outdoors, its sleek and compact design enhances your space’s aesthetic. Powerwall is more than capacity and reliability; it’s a statement in self-sufficiency.

Utilise 100 per cent of your energy and achieve maximum grid independence.

Smart technology enables real-time monitoring through an intuitive app, offering energy independence, outage protection, or savings.

What sets Powerwall apart is its ability to operate during power cuts, ensuring a continuous energy supply. With one of the largest capacities, your home can run on solar energy even after sunset. For those seeking energy efficiency, pairing your solar installation with a Tesla Powerwall battery is the next step.

It’s a leap forward in the Rooftop Revolution, bringing us closer to an innovative energy model. In essence, Tesla Powerwall isn’t just a battery; it’s a transformative solution shifting towards energy autonomy. Embrace

the future with Powerwall, where power outages are a thing of the past, and sustainability becomes a reality.

Power up your future with Ecocorp Solar!

Ecocorp Solar are proudly certified by the Junta de Andalucia AND the Ministry of Industry in Spain. Ecocorp Solar are one of the few trusted companies authorised by these governing bodies to sign off their installations. A testament to their expertise & dedication.

Power up your future with Ecocorp Solar!

Costa del Sol Chocolate for children • News Across The Regions

JOHANNA GREY lives in Mijas and started raising money in 2021 to help the children in Malaga Orphanage ( Ciudad de los Ninos).

The first fundraiser was a huge success and they have now been rasing funds and collecting chocolate and presents every year. Iceland and Tesco got involved and have helped with donations of chocolate.

For Christmas 2023 they raised over €4,000 and the Mayan Monkey chocolate factory in Mijas made personalised adventure books for all the children which they loved.

And just last week, on April 18, another chocolate delivery was made to the Orphanage as, over Easter 2024, Johanna and Eva had help from Food Co. employee Denise who had collected hundreds of chocolate cream eggs with the support, once again, of Iceland and Tesco, to put a smile on the faces of the children.

Axarquia

Award-winning B&B

ALMIJARA Residence, a distinguished boutique Pueblo Blanco B&B nestled in Competa celebrates a significant achievement in the world of hospitality. Five years after its initial recognition by the Travel and Hospitality Awards, the esteemed establishment has clinched the prestigious Europe Award for Excellence in Service for Andalucia in 2024.

The Travel & Hospitality Awards serves as a global platform honouring remarkable businesses in the travel industry, including hotels, tour operators, spa & wellness facilities, and more. Award recipients are meticulously selected based on a thorough review of customer feedback and proprietary entry data. The nominees undergo rigorous evaluation and comparison on a regional scale by a panel of expert judges. Almijara Residence’s latest accolade highlights its unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled service and guest satisfaction.

Mallorca

King opens conference

KING FELIPE VI of Spain presided over the opening of the Conference of Presidents of Parliaments of the Council of the European Union in Palma on Monday April 22.

President of the Congress, Francina Armengol, had hosted a summit with a round table on women’s leadership the day before.

Attending the conference were presidents of the legislative chambers of the different countries of the European Union, the president of the European Parliament, and many leaders from European countries.

This was the last act of the Spanish presidency of the Council of the European Union, which began on July 1 last year.

Security was very high with 800 National pPolice officers deployed, many from mainland Spain. The sewers below Palma were inspected and sniffer dogs swept the area for explosives.

Costa Blanca North Languages open doors

DOZENS of people united in Denia to protest against the cancellation of language centres, expressing their desire for international education.

On April 18, students and teachers united in front of the IES Sorts de la Mar in Denia to protest against the Ministry’s cuts in the EOI (The Official Language School) of Denia and Javea.

The protest came as a response to the announcement stating that Denia would eliminate 12 English, French and Spanish lessons and Javea’s language school would shut down altogether.

The Minister of Education in Generalitat Valenciana, Jose Antonio Rovira linked this “reorganisation” to the lack of students.

Yet the demonstration proved the high demand of the EOI. Javea’s centre has been facilitating more than 100 students for the past 20 years.

Costa Blanca South An ocean of success

IN 2024 and 2025, Alicante Port Authority has ambitious plans to surpass the historical passenger records achieved last year.

With 95 scheduled stopovers and an estimated 215,000 passengers for this year, and 107 scheduled stopovers with over 250,000 estimated passengers for next year, the port is poised to reach unprecedented figures.

This year alone represents a 30 per cent growth compared to 2023, with an economic impact of close to €60 million throughout the province.

It is estimated that during stopovers, approximately 88 per cent of passengers disembark from the cruise, with an average expenditure of €74 per cruise passenger.

With an average stopover of two days, nearly 9,000 people will have embarked on visits and excursions from the port, contributing approximately more than €600,000 to local businesses or services.

Costa Calida Must-see Murcia

MURCIA has been dubbed the most underrated destination by National Geographic. Despite being located on the trendy Mediterranean Sea, and boasting one of Europe’s warmest climates, Murcia has long remained off the beaten path for international travellers.

In 2023, Murcia welcomed over 1.7 million visitors, marking a significant milestone in its tourism growth. Murcia’s rise in appeal lies in its cultural heritage.

The ancient city of Cartagena, founded over two millennia ago, stands as a testament to its rich history, filled with ancient ruins and architectural marvel.

Murcia’s beaches are another draw, stretching 155 miles along the Costa Calida, or ‘Warm Coast,’ aptly named for its warm waters. Despite its beauty, Murcia remains affordable compared to other tourist hubs.

PETS

Calming scared cats

HELPING a cat cope with sudden noises involves creating a safe and secure environment and using calming techniques. First, provide a designated safe space where your cat can retreat when scared.

This could be a quiet room or a cosy hideaway with soft bedding and perhaps a favourite toy.

Second, consider using soundproofing or white noise machines to dampen the impact of loud noises.

Gradually exposing your cat to recorded sounds at low volumes, followed by treats and positive reinforcement, can also desensitise them over time.

Does your dog like human company? Daisy does

DO you have an only pet? Then you’ll know that they need company and stimulation and caring for them in their own home can be the very best solution. That’s the case with Daisy who finds live in dog-sitters when her owners post an advert on HouseSitMatch.

Always approach your frightened cat gently and speak in a calm, soothing voice.

Avoid forcing interactions, as this could increase their stress. Patience and consistent positive reinforcement are key to helping your cat manage their fear of sudden noises.

Additionally, synthetic pheromone diffusers or sprays can help soothe anxiety. These mimic the pheromones cats produce naturally when they feel secure, promoting a sense of calmness.

Plus HouseSit Match saves money because the pet-sitting is free! If you use HouseSitMatch.com you find free checked pet-sitters who pay their way to stay in your home caring for your pets in your absence. It’s an arrangement facilitated by a managed online system. Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services - free accommodation for free pet care!

HouseSitMatch is safe - all members are checked

All members are checked for safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.

Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch. com for affordable travel, home and pet care and peace of mind for you and your pets.

If you’re travelling in 2024 join

now and get organised today:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Premium account (£89 pa) to ensure you get help online

3. Create a profile with photos of your pets and home

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

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Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

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CLASSIFIEDS

more contact 617 914 156 (10021)

LANGUAGE CLASSES

BULDERS

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)

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

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)

DRAINAGE

ELECTRICAL

ABBOTT ELECTRICS. From a Light Fitting to a Full Rewire. Tel: 950 137 208 / 638 010 691 (304222)

ESTAATE 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

MISCELLANEOUS

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

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)

OTHERS

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

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

25 April - 1 May 2024

PAINTER/DECORATOR PETS

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €7.75, medium dogs €8.50, big dogs €9.25, cats from €7.00 a day. 630 234 556 / the5bonehotelturre@gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (304298)

PLUMBERS

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 (305077)

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

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 (305375)

REMOVALS

Latest Morgan Plus Four launched

by iconic Malvern car maker

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

THE latest Morgan Plus Four combines the historic Malvern company’s blend of craftsmanship and engineering to create the latest incarnation of their longest running nameplate, The latest Plus Four features a series of design, dynamic and technological enhancements.

The design has simplified the look of the car with the introduction of new lighting, wings, front splitter, rear diffuser, and floating front and rear number plate plinths.

Many of the new parts have been designed in-house and manufactured exclusively for Morgan. Whilst the changes are subtle, the attention-to-detail and rigorous testing process of the new parts represents the level of detail upon which the company is now operating.

The Plus Four is available in manual and automatic transmission variants and is powered by the latest BMW 2.0 litre engine. Morgan is one of the few non-BMW owned companies that are allowed to use the German manufacturer’s power units.

There is a change to the standard suspension consisting of new spring rates and re-valved dampers. In addition, an optional Dynamic Handling Pack - extensively

developed alongside suspension experts, Nitron, -will be available from launch.

First introduced in 1950 at the Earl’s Court Motor Show in London, the Plus 4 has proven to be one of the company’s most popular models.

Like every four-wheeled Morgan produced today, the Plus Four combines a blend of traditional craftsmanship and appropriate modern technology, a philosophy which the company refers to as ‘21st Century Coachbuilding’.

Each aluminium body is hand-formed over an ash wood frame. This body, which is made using age-old techniques handed down through generations, is married to an ultra-modern aluminium platform with the latest braking, suspension, and electronic systems.

At Morgan, there is no ‘bespoke’ department. Every Plus Four that enters production is bespoke as standard. Beyond the almost endless combination of colourways and options available to configure, prospective owners can go beyond this and request additional materials and features for their new Plus Four. This approach ensures that every Plus Four built is genuinely a ‘one-off’.

The new Morgan Plus Four is available to order now. Prices start from €88,366/£76,141.

IN a nail-biting El Clasico showdown, Jude Bellingham etched his name in Real Madrid’s history books with a dramatic late goal, securing a crucial victory over arch-rivals Barcelona. The match played at the iconic Bernabeu stadium, saw Real Madrid tenlead commanding 11 points at the top of La Liga.

the goal

Bellingham’s heroics came in stoppage time, as he smashed the ball into the roof of the net. This crucial strike marked his second goal in another El Clasico clash, cementing his status as a big-game player for the Spanish giants.

to claw their way back into contention with a Vinicius Jr penalty just before half-time. Fermin Lopez then put Barcelona ahead again, but Lucas Vazquez ensured parity with another equaliser for Real Madrid.

Criticised over Saudi deal Hey Jude a Classico Arsenal ousted from Champions, 1-0 to Bayern

lidifies Real Madrid’s grip on the La Liga title race but also extends their unbeaten streak across all competitions to an impressive 28 matches. Bellingham’s impact has been nothing short of remarkable since his arrival, with his performance in El Clasico further highlighting his importanCarlo Ancelotti’s side. With just six games remaining in the season, Real Madrid stands on the cusp of reclaiming the La Liga crown, thanks in no small part to the heroics of Jude Bellingham and their resilient squad. As the celebrations reverberate through the streets of Madrid, one thing is certain - Bellingham’s late winner has etched its place in El Clasico folklore, ensuring his legacy at the Bernabeu will endure for years to

EARLIER this year, Saudi Arabia held its debut snooker event with O’Sullivan clinching victory at the World Masters of Snooker. This newly formed agreement, announced on April 16, integrates the Riyadh Season as an official collaborator of the World Championships.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both sides trading blows throughout. Barcelona took an early lead through Andres Christensen, only for Real Madrid

As the the

Saudi Arabia’s Chairman of the General Entertainment authority, Turki Alalshikh announced on Twitter/X: ‘An official partnership between Riyadh Season and the World Snooker Tour aimed at promoting the sport of snooker in the Kingdom, with the world’s number one ranked player, Ronnie O’Sullivan, serving as the ambassador of the game in Saudi Arabia.’

With the Crucible Theatre’s contract due to expire in 2027, this new partnership opens up discussions about the future venue for the World Snooker Championships.

O’Sullivan has pledged to participate in both the World Masters of Snooker and the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters throughout the contract’s duration.

Speaking of the tournament in Riyadh last month the 48-year-old snooker legend expressed his thanks: “What a night!! Thank you to the organisers [at] RiyadhSeason, to Turki Alalshikh, and also

support and love I’ve received out here from all the fans,” O’Sullivan stated on his Twitter/X platform.

However, according to GB News, the snooker star’s involvement has not been well-received by some supporters in the UK. On social media, one user expressed disappointment, calling him ‘sell out O’Sullivan.’

Others voiced their disapproval with comments like ‘Everyone involved should be ashamed’ and ‘You are going to destroy this beautiful sport.’ The discontent underscores a broader unease about the sport’s direction.

Second seed O’Sullivan, chasing a record eighth win, begins his 2024 World Snooker Championship campaign on Wednesday, April 24 at 2.30pm against Jackson Page. The event kicked off in Sheffield on April 20 and will conclude on May 6.

ARSENAL played a strong first half but lacked brilliance in the second, ceding spot in the semi-final to six-time winners Bayern. A crucial opportunity was squandered by Gabriel Martinelli shortly after the half-hour mark when a cross by Martin Odegaard had him perfectly positioned to shoot. Inexplicably, he used his left foot, despite being a right-footed player, and the ball went straight to

goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Despite early attempts from Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala, genuine threats were sparse throughout the match.

The team ended the first half with a little more pos-

Bayern Munich faced challenges, with three key players missing: Davies was serving a one-match ban, while Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman were sidelined due to muscle injuries.

The second half saw intensified Bayern pressure, with Leon Goretzka’s header hitting the crossbar and Joshua Kimmich firing a bullet header straight into the net, giving Bayern and aggregate win of 3-2.

They will face Real Madrid in the semi-finals on April 30, who after a 1-1 draw beat favourites Manchester City 4-3 on penalties.

Credit: Turki_alalshikh/X