Euro Weekly News - Axarquia 3 - 9 December 2020 Issue 1848

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The people’s paper ISSUE NO. 1848

3 - 9 December 2020

AXARQUIA - COSTA TROPICAL • WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

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TESTS FOR ALL

EVERY single resident in a Malaga town will be tested for Covid­19 ­ the first in the province to adopt a mass­testing ap­ proach.

While relatively small with 1,589 in­ habitants, Cuevas del Becerro had the highest incidence rate for Covid­19 in An­ dalucia and is now the first to have all its residents tested.

The Junta de Andalucia Health Depart­ ment made the decision after 130 of 182 people tested on a single day, was posi­ tive.

Approximately 1,400 PCR tests will be carried out for everyone in the town, in­ cluding children at one of the eight new mobile units purchased by the Junta de Andalucia for such situations.

Locals have been asked not to leave their homes, as they now have the third highest rate in Andalucia with 3,209 cas­ es per 100,000, beaten by smaller towns such as Fuente Tojar in Cordoba (3,720 inhabitants) and Aldeaquemada, Jaen with 3,326. At its peak, Cuevas del Becer­ ro had a rate of 4,279 per 100,000 inhab­ itants, when the average for Malaga Province is 300.

Only those who already took tests re­

CUEVAS DEL BECERRO: Had the highest incidence rate for Covid-19 in Andalucia. cently will not be tested now. Testing is obligatory, and this time, residents will be called by phone or SMS and if they fail to attend, they could be charged with a crime against public health, the mayor, Ana Maria Garcia, explained.

A previous appeal for people to get tested resulted in 107 of the 289 people not turning up.

The Junta de Andalucia added that if someone tested positive and refused to

self­isolate, the health authorities can take them to court and ask the police to put them under surveillance.

There are currently 151 towns in An­ dalucia with more than 500 cases, and 42 of them with more than 1,000 cases, which the Junta de Andalucia has said is severely high.

While crowds gathered to see the switching on of the lights in Madrid, Malaga, Barcelona and Zaragoza, al­

though so far, the authorities have not reported anything out of the ordinary, with a Malaga councillor saying that there “weren’t any crowds,” but the message from the government to “save Christmas” has given way to appeals for “more responsibility.”

President Pedro Sanchez himself pointed out the need to “put health pre­ cautions before anything else” to “pro­ vide security for those we want to be

ENGINE failure forced a plane to make an emer­ gency landing on Las Lin­ des and Cenicero beach in El Morche on Tuesday, De­ cember 1.

There have been no re­ ported injuries or damage to the plane, which landed at around 11.15am.

Malaga airport control tower informed 112, which in turn reported the inci­ dent to emergency opera­ tions and the Guardia Civil.

Sources from the armed institute confirmed that when a technical problem arose, the pilot decided to land on the coast, accord­ ing to Malaga Hoy. No other details have been released.

CREDIT: Consorcio Provincial de Bomberos

Forced emergency landing

Plane landed on the beach.

with tomorrow.”

The President of the Junta de Andalu­ cia, Juanma Moreno, has also asked for “responsibility and common sense.” He said that preventing a third wave of the virus is “in our hands” and that everyone should behave in a responsible manner “if we want to continue working and have more mobility after the Three Kings. If we relax,” he continued, “we will go back to a high and worrying rate of contagion.”

When the State of Alarm was lifted on June 21, Spain was registering eight cases per 100,000 inhabitants. According to re­ cent health reports, it is currently at 307 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, when the desired number is 25 cases. Although numbers are reportedly dropping, there is a long way to go, and celebrations could trigger another curve.

In Andalucia, Moreno has warned, mobility restrictions may not be the same throughout the region over Christ­ mas. This would not only affect travel be­ tween provinces but also within them.

He has said that despite his wishes for it not to be the case, some areas may be ruled by different measures.

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3 - 9 December 2020

NEWS

Added mileage for car raffle THE merchants associations of Almuñecar and La Herradura has put the breaks on a car raffle until January 4.

The initiative, which has the support and col­ laboration of the Sexitano City Council, aims to promote and boost sales among the 300 partic­ ipating establishments.

The merchant associations taking part are:

Comercio Sexitano, Comercio Vivo de Almuñe­ car and the Association of Merchants, Crafts­ men and Professionals of La Herradura.

“Due to the closure, motivated by the latest measures adopted by Covid­19 throughout the province of Granada, the promotion was also altered and the associations have decided to modify the date of the draw in order to recover

those two weeks of closure,” said a spokesper­ son for the Almuñecar and La Herradura mer­ chants associations.

Customers who make a purchase in any of the participating establishments, identified by a poster in the shop window, will be entered into the raffle. The car can be seen in the Almuñecar Peugeot showroom, on Avenida Costa del Sol.

CREDIT: Ayuntamiento de Almuñecar

PEUGEOT: The car can be seen at the showroom.

Christmas nativity THE traditional Christmas nativi­ ty scene has opened in Torre del Mar with anti­Covid measures and capacity control.

Mayor Jesús Carlos Pérez Atencia unveiled the Christmas Belen at the Cultural Centre Nuestra Se Señora del Carmen ­ a scene which takes up 54 sqm, with over 1,000 decorative fig­ ures.

And he assured ‘strict anti­ Covid measures, capacity con­ trol and temperature taking’ have been implemented.

The inauguration was round­ ed off with the ‘Night of Peace’

CREDIT: Ayuntamiento de Torre del Mar

TRADITIONAL SCENE: Has over 1,000 decorative figurees. carol, played by soprano Car­ men Perez.

The mayor said: “This year, marked by the pandemic, we have decided to continue doing this Bethlehem, maintaining all

security measures. That’s why we invite the whole municipali­ ty and the region to visit and en­ joy this beautiful recreation, while respecting and following the rules of the building.”

Gender violence THE town’s first municipal plan against gender violence has been approved for the next four years in Rincon de la Victoria.

Councillor for Social Welfare and deputy mayor, Elena Aguilar, said: “The plan aims to establish, on the one hand, guidelines, mechanisms, roles and procedures to fight more effectively against gender violence, and on the other hand, to facilitate that

women can access opportunities and rights.

“In addition to create conditions for the people of Rincon de la Victoria to be more just and egalitarian.”

The council wants to strengthen the structure and resources of the town hall to promote a municipality free of gender violence, raise awareness and provide prevention, protection and care.

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NIBS EXTRA Nativity scene RINCON DE LA VICTORIA’S Department of Culture, Fair and Festivities will open the town’s nativity scene in the Casa Fuerte de Bezmiliana at 4pm on Friday, December 5. This year’s ‘unique’ nativity has been made in a traditional way with around 20 pieces by a local resident.

Body found THE body of a man was found on El Dedo beach close to where a number of small boats are moored. A member of the public called 112 at around 7.10pm on Monday evening, November 30, to report a ‘deceased person’ on the coastline in the Malaga neighbourhood of El Palo.

Cybercrime POLICE in Malaga City are offering advice to avoid becoming a victim of a cybercrime after a spike in incidents. In November, seven complaints of computer fraud were made prompting officers to advise the public not to trust calls from people claiming to be technicians from computer companies and to never provide bank details.

In memory A MINUTE’S silence to remember victims who have died ‘at the hands of their oppressors’ was held in Archez on Tuesday, December 1, to mark International Day Against Gender Violence.

‘Hopefully one day we will stop marking this day because equality between men and women will have been achieved.’

Cash aid FRIGILIANA Council has announced its grant scheme to support promising and outstanding athletes who live in the area.

The deadline for submitting requests is December 23, 2020, and applicants must provide various documentation. To find out more ask for Alfonso at the town hall or visit frigiliana.es.

Former mayor TRIBUTE has been paid to former Frigiliana mayor from 1987 to 1995, Antonio Fernández Vera, who passed away last week.

The council said it “wished to express our posthumous gratitude for all his work and we express our sincere condolences to all his family, fellow teachers and friends.”

LA HERRADURA has already begun preparations for the most magical day of the year.

Covid­19 has not prevent­ ed the Three Kings from bringing joy to the young residents of the town on January 5, in the Plaza de la Independencia, as is tradi­ tion.

“Faced with the impossi­ bility of carrying out the tra­ ditional parade, the Magi will deliver the toys at the Castle of La Herradura, from 4pm to 9pm. As a novelty,

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Three Kings

CREDIT: Ayuntamiento de Almuñecar

TRADITION: Celebrations in 2018.

they will wear a new outfit and there will be some sur­ prises to fulfill the illusion of a magical night,” said deputy mayor, Juan José Ruiz Joya.

“There are a few changes this year to make the cele­ bration safe,” he added.

Girls and boys can register until December 18 at the of­ fices of the Mayor’s Office.

“This will make it possible to control how many will come to collect the toys from the hands of their Majesties,” said Ruiz Joya.

Spending doubled ALMUÑECAR Council has doubled social spending and increased tourism pro­ motion in its €38,693,000 budget for 2021.

An emphasis is being placed on helping the peo­ ple most affected by the Covid pandemic.

Support for families will have a budget of more than €250,000, while the Social Emergency Fund will be doubled.

The Home Help Service will be allocated €400.000.

Mayor Trinidad Herrera Lorente said: “The new ex­

ercise allocates more than €400,000 to the new Town Hall Employment Plan, with an increase of more than €175,000 on 2018.

“This government team is aware that in the face of the crisis, administrations should be the driving force behind creating jobs and wealth, so it plans large in­ vestments for Almuñecar, such as the new Municipal Market, sports infrastruc­ tures, a day centre for se­ niors and an investment in children’s parks and public spaces.”

Firearms seized

POLICE discovered a greenhouse rammed with marihuana plants along with firearms at a rural property in Colmenar.

In addition to a crop of 419 plants, National Police seized three firearms, ammunition, €3,720, 335 grams of marihuana buds, trans­ formers, halogen lamps, fans, filters­carbon turbines, and air condi­ tioners. Four people, two men and two women, were arrested for their alleged involvement in drug trafficking and fraudulent use of electricity.

According to police sources, the property is located in the middle of a plot of about 6,000 square metres, fenced around its perimeter and guarded by two large dogs.

Social investment VELEZ­MALAGA Council has approved the municipal bud­ get 2020 giving priority to social investment.

The total budget amounts to €106 million, of which €14.4 million will go towards initiatives which help in an aggravated situation due to the Covid­19 health crisis.

Social Emergencies will be allocated €475,000; Aid to Citizenship (€2,875,000; Aid programmes for families with children (€375,000; so­ cial emergency rental subsi­ dies (€25,000) with the ma­ jority for the dependency home help service with €6,998,399.

BUDGET: Increased for social spending and tourism.

Extra troops

CONTROLS: Will be brought in during the holidays.

THERE have been calls for extra troops to control movements over public holidays.

Almuñecar Council has asked the Government Sub­delegation to provide the necessary personnel to control entrances and exits during the Constitution and Immaculate public holidays.

Chaired by the mayor, Trinidad Herrera, the local government board said that “in view of the next public holidays of the Consti­ tution and La Inmaculada, from December 4 to 8, that the munici­ pality is endowed with the troops and Security Corps that are necessary for carrying out the controls to limit entry and exit from the municipality, according to the adopted agreement.”

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Clocked At 207kph On Motril A-7 TRAVELLING along the A­7 in a white BMW X4, doing 207kph, where there is a speed limit of 100kph, is not such a great idea when ‘Pegasus,’ the Guardia Civil helicopter that is based in Malaga, is flying overhead, equipped with the latest state­of­the­art radar tech­ nology and speed cameras.

Unfortunately, for a 44­ year­old driver, this was the case on November 19, as he was passing the 331­ kilometre point, in the mu­ nicipality of Motril, and the DGT’s ‘Pegasus’ locked on­ to him, relaying his info di­ rectly to Grupo de Investi­ gación y Análisis de Tráfico (GIAT), who quickly identi­ fied the owner of the vehi­ cle, which it turned out was registered to a compa­ ny.

This speeding infringe­ ment carries a suspended prison sentence if the dri­ ver is found guilty, of be­ tween three and six months, and a loss of their driving licence, from one to four years.

Air quality

A NEW air conditioning unit and humidifier have been in­ stalled at Torrox municipal pool.

The ventilation system represents an investment of just over €130,000 to ‘im­ prove the facility’s air condi­ tioning and reduce the high levels of humidity being en­ dured.’

A new electronic marker has also been installed, cost­ ing €5.275,605 so that users can check both humidity and ambient temperature and water in both pools.

This week, the pools will be open from 8am until 9pm, complying with the recommended safety and hygiene measures against Covid­19.

The Swimming Club will resume courses in January, 2021, said Torrox Council.

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Furloughed mothers FURLOUGHED mothers may not be entitled to childcare payments legal advisors have warned.

Depending on the type of ERTE (furlough) they have, by ceasing to carry out work for an employer, the requirements to receive childcare are no longer met and the mothers are no longer entitled to it.

This affects the payment of €100 per month which working mothers, both employed and self-employed, are entitled to

until the child is three years old.

This also applies to any amount that they may receive for sending the child (if under the age of three) to daycare or infant school.

If a woman receiving these benefits is put on ERTE (furlough) and receives payment due to this suspension of her employment contract, she is in a situation of total unemployment, and therefore, she does not meet the requirements to be entitled to it.

NEWS

Cheaper tests to encourage travel EASYJET and easyJet holidays announced on Monday, November 30, that they have partnered with two testing firms, Confirm Testing and City Doc, as the airline is continuing to explore ways of working with different governments and industry partners to test the efficacy of more rapid testing.

The partnerships mean that preferential prices can be accessed for both companies using a unique code provided when they book through the easy-

Jet.com and easyJet.com/holidays sites.

Customers will receive a reduced rate of £75 (€84) per home test with Confirm Testing or £100 (€111) per home test or £150 (€167) for an in-clinic test with CityDoc. Both testing companies aim to provide results within 48 hours of the test being returned to them. Confirm Testing is managed via Royal Mail and their Priority Postboxes and CityDoc

offer a courier service. easyJet is also working to identify suppliers in Europe to be able to provide this across its network.

Testing has become a requirement for entry for a number of easyJet’s key destinations such as Germany, Spain and Italy. and so this partnership is focused on helping customers get their required test ahead of travel more conveniently and at more affordable rates.

Break down, just flash TRIANGLES have been part of breaking down for years, but in the DGT shake up, their time could be up.

The DGT traffic authori­ ty of Spain has decided that a flashing light on the roof of a car, attached by a magnet is a far safer idea and will be a substi­ tute for the customary tri­ angle.

Before this measure, deemed safer by the DGT, it was necessary to get out of the car, assemble the triangle and place be­ hind the car at some dis­

BREAK DOWN: Just show a flashing light in future. tance so as to warn others your vehicle was there and had broken down.

The DGT now agree that this endangers the life of the motorist in the sense

that it’s possible the dri­ ver could be run over by another vehicle. Hence, the light on top of the car is the way forward.

Its use will not be mandatory until January 2024, and it is not sure who will manufacture the emergency light and how much it will cost but it’s expected to be around €40.

The device will be able to connect to your mobile phone to ask for assis­ tance by way of connect­ ing to an emergency net­ work.

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First of its kind MADRID is to open Spain’s first centre for homeless women who are victims of gender violence in 2021.

The centre will have up to 40 places and will combine the care received by homeless people with that provided to women who have suffered sexist violence.

Madrid City Council has sup­ ported 832 women and their children in the Municipal Net­

work of Attention to Victims of Gender Violence in 2020, twice as many as in 2019.

Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez­Almeida, reiterated the “firm and unwavering” commitment of the city coun­ cil to “develop public policies to fight against sexist vio­ lence.”

He recalled the “41 women murdered in Spain so far this year, two of them in the Com­

munity of Madrid, which makes us reaffirm the firm and unwavering commitment”: Deputy mayor, Begoña Vil­ lacís, explained: “The new re­ source will be a reception cen­ tre to serve homeless women who are victims of gender vio­ lence, who are three times more likely to suffer this type of violence.

“It the first centre of its kind in Spain and very necessary.”

Driving schools unable to reopen TEN per cent of driving schools have been unable to reopen since the start of the ‘new normal’ meaning that people taking lessons to obtain their driving licence were badly affected by the State of Alarm, lessons, both theoretical and practical, had to stop and exam dates were postponed.

In May, the schools were able to reopen and the General Traffic Department resumed exams, but around 10 per cent remain closed.

According to a report by Dribo in National Spanish newspaper 20minutos, 15 per cent of driving schools are in danger of having to shut

down because of waiting for exams unless they change their business plan and introduce online options.

This would account for 1,300 driving centres across the country, without online learning techniques, driving schools could be facing losses of up to €3,500 per month.

Dribo meanwhile, promotes digitalising driving lessons so that students do not have to physically go to a classroom. It is now working in 37 cities in Spain helping driving schools to modernise their methods to avoid closures.

Possible 100,000 jobs lost

GENERAL DIRECTOR of Seat, Mikel Palomera, warned on Tuesday, November 24, that thousands of jobs could be lost when the new registra­ tion tax comes into effect across Spain in January.

In the New Year, 50 per TAX INCREASE: Will be a cent of cars on sale will have strong blow to the industry. to pay the registration tax, which will make them 4.75 per cent more expensive, thereby reducing demand, Palomera said.

Speaking at the sixth Deia Automobile conference, the CEO of Fiat Chrysler, Alberto de Aza explained that a tax increase, de­ rived from the application of the WLTP, would be “a very strong blow,” which will translate into “a fall in demand” and will have “without any doubt, an impact in employment and, ultimately, in the economy.”

The WLTP procedure ( World Harmonised Light­duty Vehicle Test Procedure ) is a global standard for determining the levels of pollutants, CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of tradition­ al cars, hybrids, and pure electric cars.

Teeside to Spain RYANAIR announced on Wednesday, November 25, that it is returning to Teesside in sum­ mer 2021 with the launch of two routes to Alicante and Mallorca, both operating two flights per week, commencing on June 1, 2021, as part of their British

summer 2021 schedule.

British consumers and visitors can now book a summer break to Alicante and Mallorca ­ two of Spain’s most popular beach des­ tinations ­ as far away as October 2021, always flying on the lowest fares.

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Convicted terrorist citizenship revoked HOME MINISTER Peter Dut­ ton announced on Wednes­ day, November 25 his decision to revoke the citizenship of Al­ gerian­born convicted terrorist Abdul Nacer Benbrika, also known as Abu Bakr.

He was jailed in 2005 for 15 years, after originally being ar­ rested with 17 other suspect­ ed terrorists, when multiple plots were uncovered to bomb Australian landmarks in Sydney. Bakr was considered to be the spiritual leader of those arrested.

He has 90 days to appeal the cancellation of his visa and his deportation to Algeria.

Speaking to international media reporter in Brisbane, Dutton said, “If it’s a person who’s posing a significant ter­ rorist threat to our country, then we’ll do whatever is pos­ sible within Australian law to protect Australians.”

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Covid tests in Pharmacies

T H E regional government of Madrid has proposed allowing pharmacies to carry out Covid-19 tests from December, though this has yet to be agreed by the M inistry of Health. Minister of Health Enrique Ruiz Escudero said this would be a huge step forward “to continue the massive test strategy in our region.”

Ministers have taken inspiration from

Slovakia, who rolled out mass testing and have managed to contain the virus as a result. Before starting the test, a training course will be provided to pharmacists. The Deputy Minister of Public H ealth, A ntonio Z apatero, trusts that some 600 pharmacies can collaborate, which would mean being able to carry out “many tests.”

‘Big Ben’ activist ‘EXTINCTION REBELLION’ activist Benjamin Atkinson, 44, scaled Big Ben’s tower and unfurled banners calling for ac­ tion on the climate emergency during a protest on October 18, 2019.

He had been taking part in the demonstration outside the Palace of Westminster before he climbed over the fences and climbed the scaffolding of the Queen Elizabeth Tower.

The tree surgeon from Ambleside, Cumbria, was up on the scaffolding for three hours while specialist police units from the protest removal team negotiated how to get him down.

He had planned to do a live radio broadcast from the top of the tower, while wearing fancy dress, to “highlight govern­ ment inaction on the climate and ecological emergency.”

On coming down from the tower, Atkinson was arrested and then later charged with trespass on a protected site con­ trary to section 128 of the Serious Organised Crime and Po­ lice Act 2005.

He was convicted on Wednesday, November 25, and sen­ tenced to 250 hours of unpaid work and handed fines of £865 (€970).

Training course provided.

HOOKAH SMOKING FLOUTERS MALAGA Local Police cleared a cocktail bar of 14 customers who were caught drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking hookahs after the 6pm curfew.

Two members of staff were also removed from the premises and the person in charge of the establishment was charged with breaching regulations.

The events took place at around 7pm, when the police requested entry to the premises, the doors of which were closed, and requested ID from everyone inside. Minutes later, they were charged with non-compliance of anti-coronavirus measures applicable in Andalucia, such as no more than six people at a table, not wearing masks, sharing the hookah pipes, which had apparently been prepared in the toilets, and opening after the 6pm curfew.

NEWS

32,000 THEME JOBS GONE THE worrying trend, for all things entertainment to suffer first in the pandemic, continues as Walt Disney has announced 32,000 job losses from its theme parks.

This follows on from a previous announcement that substantial amounts of jobs may have to go due to falling attendances and forced closures due to the pandemic.

The layoffs will take place in the early part of 2021 Disney announced, and this follows losses of nearly $680 million (€569 million).

Theme parks formed the bulk of that loss - however, its online subscription streaming service made further progress by achieving a 16 per cent increase in revenue.

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Family doctor Wetherspoons to remain shut A FAMILY doctor who was about to retire has died of coronavirus in Sevilla.

Pedro Fernández Casa­ do, 66, was diagnosed several weeks ago and spent 20 days in ICU at Virgen del Rocío Hospital The doctor spent 20 days before his health deterio­ in the ICU. rated and he died on Fri­ day, November 27.

The Medical Union of Sevilla said in a statement: “He contracted the virus in the days when he was considering his retirement.”

Earlier this month, Sevillian health worker Gabriel Castillo, died from coronavirus.

There have now been four deaths from Covid­19 of health workers in Sevilla since the start of the pandemic.

JD WETHERSPOON has announced that 315 of its pubs will stay shut due to the tiered coronavirus lockdown restrictions announced for England by the govern­ ment. “It is very disappointing that yet an­ other raft of regulations has been intro­ duced, which has effectively closed half our pubs,” said Tim Martin, the pub group’s chairman.

In total, 366 pubs will now remain closed of which most are in Tier­3 zones in England and 51 in Northern Ireland and Scotland, said the FTSE 250 group.

The government has said that every­ where in England, bar Cornwall and the

Isles of Scilly and Wight, is in the highest risk Tier­2 and Tier­3 categories.

Opening just for takeaways, which is one of the Tier­3 rules, is ‘unlikely to be a realistic proposition’ said the pub chain.

Wetherspoons noted that it has 435 pubs in Tier­2 areas which will open, including 17 pubs in Scotland.

A further 13 pubs in England are classi­ fied as Tier­1 with a further 51 in Wales under an approximate low­risk classifica­ tion. In his statement, Martin said: “The company has campaigned for pubs to re­ vert to the rules agreed between the pub industry, civil servants, local authorities

Queen Letizia Opens Summit IN the absence of husband King Felipe, who is self­isolating with symptoms of coronavirus, Queen Letizia of Spain stepped forward on Thursday, November 26, to open the first­ever Tourism & In­ novation Summit, in Sevilla, which after Barcelona and Madrid, is the city with the biggest influx of tourism.

Five thousand professionals from the tourism industry, and technology markets, were expect­ ed to attend this event, in what is

hoped will become a regular inter­ national forum for the tourism business in Spain.

A minute’s silence took place at the start, to mark International Day Against Domestic Violence, after which, the Queen went on to speak about the damage the current pandemic has done to Spain’s tourism industry, and how she hopes this inaugural summit will, “provide more elements of analysis to continue expanding and strengthening tourism.”

and health officials, which were intro­ duced when pubs reopened in July.

“These rules greatly reduced pub ca­ pacity and provided strict social dis­ tancing and hygiene standards but, with difficultly, allowed pubs to trade viably. It is very disappointing that yet another raft of regulations has been in­ troduced, which has effectively closed half our pubs.

“In reality, the government has extend­ ed a form of lockdown, by stealth, in large swathes of the country,” Martin added that there was no evidence about the transmission of the coronavirus in pubs.

Cop leaves hospital

A POLICEMAN run over by drug traffickers in Algeciras in Cadiz Province finally left hospital after three months, having spent six weeks in ICU. Inspector Francisco Javier was part of an operation to intercept a high­end vehicle stolen in Marbella on the Costa del Sol which was carrying a cache of 16 drug bundles collect­ ed in Punta Carnero.

The fleeing vehicle rammed his patrol car on September 5, caus­ ing it to overturn, leaving the offi­

cer with ‘serious injuries.’

On Friday morning, November 27, he was finally discharged where colleagues and nurses sur­ rounded his bedside as he pre­ pared to return home.

The National Police tweeted: “Congratulations! Our comrade Francisco Javier, inspector who was run over by a drug dealer, left the hospital in #Getafe (#Madrid) today and returned to #Algeciras. Plenty of encourage­ ment.”

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EUROPEAN NIBS DENMARK

GERMANY

Little Mermaid

Scalped

ALTHOUGH sculptor Edvard Eriksen has been dead for 61 years, his Little Mermaid in Copenhagen is protected by copyright until 2030 and his heirs have won damages of Kr285,000 (€38,300) against newspaper Berlingske which used a zombified image on its front page.

AFTER six years of discussion and the involvement of the US State Department, the Karl May museum, dedicated to the German writer of westerns has agreed to repatriate to America a scalp which may have been taken from a member of the Chippewa tribe.

NETHERLANDS Uber frustrated THE ‘mini cab’ company Uber has been told by the Dutch jobs’ agency UWV that it may not sack 10 workers at its Amsterdam Head Office who refused to apply for redundancy when it wanted to lose 200 workers since it had acted improperly.

BELGIUM New blinds A MAN from Diepenbeek who claimed he was taking a shot of the moon has been given a 12-month suspended sentence, ordered to pay €1,500 and purchase new blinds and curtains for his neighbour after he was convicted of photographing her in the nude.

FRANCE Eco-Museum BRITISH sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor who specialises in under water installations has produced six giant heads which have been sunk to the bottom of the sea off the coast of Cannes to create what is described as Europe’s first ‘eco-museum.’

NORWAY Electric VAT FOLLOWING years of promoting the purchase of electric cars, Norway’s politicians are considering returning to a 25 per cent tax on all electric cars which cost more than Nk600,000 (€56,700) which would hurt brands like Mercedes and Tesla.

3 - 9 December 2020

First Golden Eagle Spotted prey is indeed a LOCALS are optimistic for the re­ golden eagle, turn of the species after the and said, “When first Golden Eagle was spot­ golden eagles are ted in the skies of Albox in young, the first year Almeria. they have very character­ The sighting has istic plumage. Looking at been confirmed them from below they as a young eagle, have two white wing that leaves locals opti­ spots that are mistic that the very notice­ species has re­ GOLDEN EAGLE: Is a able, and they turned. There has al­ protected species. also have a so been an adult small white stripe on the tail.” golden eagle spotted in the same The Golden Eagle is a protect­ area. ed species and sightings have Elena Jiménez, a graduate in been reported to the authorities Environmental Sciences tells us to help ensure the birds’ safety. how to confirm that the bird of

Costa Blanca millionaire

A NEW overnight millionaire was declared in Murcia as one winner on Tuesday, November 24’s Euromillions was drawn.

Overall, Spain had a successful lotto week with lucky winners of the second category based in Sagunto in Valencia and Alfaro in Valencia scooping an impressive €176,840.50 each.

The winning ticket for the million euros was purchased in Águilas in Murcia and carries the code: GSB80134.

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Fine exchange THE number of offenders who swap fines for cleaning the streets in Madrid has skyrocket­ ed by 66.8 per cent since Sep­ tember 2019.

According to the city council, the profile of the offender who typically opts for community type work as opposed to paying a fine is male, aged between 18 and 29, of Madrid origin and studying at university.

And the highest number of fines exchanged for cleaning in this programme are the result of urinating on public roads, an of­ fence classified as ‘serious’ which carries a fine of €751.

The city council wants to pro­ mote these exchanges to “achieve greater awareness of citizens about the importance of keeping the capital clean.

“The Substitute Environmental Provision (PAS) programme man­ aged by the Environment and Mobility Area has progressively more followers,” said its manag­ er, Borja Carabante.

He added: “Participation has increased by 66.8 per cent since September 2019.”

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3 - 9 December 2020

THE EURO WEEKLY NEWS is urg­ ing its readers to support local businesses in the community by going local through the lock­ down and for your Christmas shopping this year, instead of feeding online giants and super­ stores.

This lockdown and festive peri­ od we challenge you to rediscov­ er your local high streets, mar­ kets, butchers, greengrocers and all of the wonderfully quirky inde­ pendent businesses in your area.

Due to the Covid­19 pandem­ ic, you may have to support many local businesses by order­ ing online and making use of any click and collect services they can operate if you are unable to get out due to health reasons or lock­ down restrictions.

The joy of shopping local means that independent busi­ nesses can help support the local community.

Although it may be a euro or two cheaper elsewhere or online, consider where your money is actually going. By shopping at an independent store you’re putting food on a local family’s table, and there is no better time than Christmas to give back to your community by making a small gesture and shopping in this way.

Many local stores support lo­

GO LOCAL

cal charities, support and sponsor local sports teams and in many cases the small independent stores are actually much more than just a small high street shop, they’re a family’s legacy, often passed down through numerous generations and support not just the current owner, but the gen­ eration before.

For those stores which are new, that extra couple of euros spent there are supporting some­ one’s dream and ambition, and also the courage it took them to step out alone, which is no easy task. It takes quite a large chunk of money to set up an indepen­ dent store and compete with the multi­national and chains.

So be sure to pre­order your turkey from a local butcher and get your spuds from a local greengrocer, let us revive that community spirit and get to know our neighbours again.

You could also consider pur­ chasing gift vouchers from local

BUY LOCAL: By shopping locally, independent businesses can help support the local community. businesses to help them over the coming weeks, thinking outside the box can often lead to some fantastic ideas. Why not buy a meal for two, an hour’s tattoo time at a local studio, a hair cut at a local salon or an online study course for someone looking to change their career path.

As people are struggling with fi­ nances thinking about what friends and family may actually need is important too. Whilst it’s nice to give a glamourous gift per­

haps pre­paying a family mem­ ber’s phone bill for the month would actually be a better gift.

Helping people alleviate stress and worry, give the gift of peace of mind through these difficult times.

Choosing to spend your mon­ ey locally will really make a differ­ ence in the recovery of the local economy. When we buy local, our money stays local, and it strengthens the local economy in two ways. First, buying local

keeps money circulating within the local economy. Studies have shown that local businesses recir­ culate a greater share of every euro as they create locally owned supply chains and invest in their employees.

Data shows that local retailers return 52 per cent of their rev­ enue back into the local econo­ my, compared to just 14 per cent for national chain retailers.

Money circulating through the local economy benefits everyone who is a part of each transaction.

For example, let’s look at a local farmer growing produce.

First, they sell to a local restau­ rant, which in turn prepares the fresh produce and sells it to local customers. The farmer pays its local employees and the restau­ rant uses revenue from sales to buy supplies from a neighbour­ hood hardware store. This exam­ ple illustrates how the recircula­ tion of money in the local economy leads to a stronger fi­

FEATURE

nancial foundation for our neigh­ bours and communities.

Buying local also fuels new employment and job opportuni­ ties for people within our com­ munity. Studies show, locally owned businesses employ more people per unit of sales and re­ tain more employees over time.

While buying local is financially compelling to our communities; the benefits to our environment are equally impressive. Buying lo­ cally reduces the processing of goods, packaging and transporta­ tion waste, which leads to less pollution.

There’s a massive cultural shift underway redefining the way people make buying decisions.

We’re seeing more individuals concerned about the environ­ ment, about how products are made and sourced, where mate­ rials come from, and a company’s overall social and environmental impact.

Many businesses are joining our Go Local campaign by offer­ ing customers special offers and discounts throughout the festive period, more details to follow here soon.

Just remember to follow the latest government advice and any guidance businesses have to keep everyone safe.

NEWS

www.euroweeklynews.com

Scottish Christmas Bubbles

SCOTLAND has announced an eight­person limit for Christmas ‘bubbles’ of three households which should contain no more than eight people over the age of 11.

Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has an­ nounced the new rule as part of the government’s guidance which temporarily relaxes some Covid­19 re­ strictions for five days over Christmas.

The easing of Covid rules, which also states that chil­ dren under the age of 12 do not count towards the total number of people in the bubble, will apply across the UK from December 23 to 27.

A UK­wide deal was agreed on Tuesday, Novem­ ber 24, to permit people to meet up in ‘bubbles’ over

STURGEON: ‘Stay at home.’

the festive period, with trav­ el restrictions also being lift­ ed across all four home na­ tions.

However, Nicola Sturgeon has said the “default advice” and “safest position” was still that people should avoid contact, with the “safest way to spend Christ­ mas and the festive period [being] to stay within your own household, in your own home and your own local area.”

easyJet Bookings Rise ACCORDING to the airline’s chief executive Johan Lund­ gren, easyJet saw bookings rise last week compared to the previous week, albeit starting from a low base.

Under the current lockdown restrictions, only essen­ tial travel is permitted, however, the UK is due to relax them as the end of England’s second lockdown draws near. easyJet said bookings for flights from London and Bristol to Belfast and Edinburgh had gone up as Christ­ mas flight restrictions are also set to be eased further across the UK allowing families to mix for five days.

In a statement on Thursday, November 26, Lundgren said: “We know underlying demand is there, which we see every time travel restrictions are lifted.

“We continue to closely review our flying pro­ gramme to ensure we are aligning our schedule with customer demand,” he concluded.

Brave Grandma Fights Off Burglar MICHELINE S T E P H E N, known as Michelle to her friends, fought off a burglar only two days before her 90th birthday.

Micheline, from Cupar in Fife, Scotland, walked into her kitchen on November 20, to find someone there.

She initially thought it was her grandson, before soon realising that someone had broken into her house.

According to Edinburgh Live, Micheline “tried to yank him by the rucksack he was wearing to stop him escaping through her window calling him a ‘wee sh**e,’ but he

managed to get away.”

The grandma originally born in France has not let the robbery phase her, although she is worried that the rob­ ber may strike another house in the area. “How dare he come to an old person’s home to do that?

“I’m old, but some people are much worse than I am and would not have put up a fight.

“I want other people to stay vigilant.”

The robber made off with Micheline’s lighter and ciga­ rettes and police investiga­ tions continue.

3 - 9 December 2020

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FINANCE Christmas present AS there will be a temporary relaxation of UK Covid-19 rules to allow families to get together Marks & Spencer has announced that it will close on Boxing Day, normally one of the busiest shopping days of the year, so staff can enjoy two days off.

Madrid benefits THE exodus from Catalonia to Madrid continues, despite the fear of Covid-19 with some 433 companies relocating so far this year as they consider that their long-term financial health will be better in a centre with lower taxes and no calls for Independence.

Saturday delivery TO remain a sustainable business, Royal Mail has been advised by its regulator that if it cut out Saturday postal deliveries it would still be able to fulfil its obligations to consumers and save up to £225 million (€247 million) per year.

Finance round ONLINE Spanish employment agency Jobandtalent which concentrates on recruiting temporary workers, is looking to raise up to €60 million through a round of financing and if this is successful will be the largest startup funding raised this year.

OHL construction AS Spanish construction company OHL sees its losses increase to €114 million due to the impact of the pandemic, major shareholders, the Mexican Amodio brothers have allowed a share option to lapse.

They currently own 16 per cent of the company (with Luis Amodio holding the post of President) and had an option to purchase a further 9 per cent from Grupo Villar Mir but as the current share price is lower than the option price, they have let it lapse.

STAT OF WEEK

€9.95 billion

is the amount of contributory Social Security benefits paid in Spain in November, an increase of 2.26 per cent over November 2019.

Fisheries funds

Bank Merger Called Off ON November 16, BBVA and Sabadell announced, after several months of speculation, that they were entering into talks with the intention of agreeing to a merger which would have creat­ ed the second strongest bank in Spain.

Now, just two weeks later, both banks have ad­ vised the National Securi­ ties Market Commission (CNMV) that due to a number of serious stick­

ing points, they were un­ able to agree a basic un­ derstanding with regards to value of shares and therefore the proposed merger has been called off.

Whilst organisations such as the European Central Bank and the Bank of Spain have made it clear that the current fi­ nancial situation calls for the strengthening of banks’ finances by merg­ er, this will not be the

LEGALLY SPEAKING

case for these two.

BBVA is by far the stronger of the two banks and having recently sold its subsidiary in the USA for a reported €9.7 bil­ lion, it was clear that the merger, would really be a takeover in all but name.

Sabadell saw its share price rocket as the merger talks were confirmed, but they reversed immediate­ ly upon the announce­ ment of the break down of talks and it seems

more than likely that they will now try to divest themselves of overseas assets such as TSB Bank, which has not generated significant profits for them.

With a large amount of money in BBVA and a wish to increase its share of established business rather than relying heavi­ ly on emerging business, it seems likely that it will be sizing up other Spanish banking merger options.

Recycling bikes

Can he be empadronado?

Credit: Pink Albatross

BUSINESS EXTRA

www.euroweeklynews.com • 3 - 9 December 2020

12

I live in a caravan parked at the bottom of a friend’s land. I look after the land and do not pay rent. I make my living as a gardener. I would like to be empadronado in my town, but they tell me I must have a proper fixed address in order to register. I have heard that in some places they are registering even homeless persons who live on the street. What can I do?

SPAIN is one of the major beneficiaries of the current European Maritime and Fish­ eries Fund (which expires at the end of this year) and was allocated €1.089 billion out of a total budget of €6.4 bil­ lion.

According to Bird Life Inter­ national, the purpose of the fund is to assist in creating en­ vironmental, economic and social sustainability in fish­ eries, but the organisation has serious doubts about the ef­ fectiveness of the spending of some of the money.

Figures are only available to the end of 2018 but show that €55 million was spent on subsidies considered harmful to the marine environment and just €5.8 million was spent on artisanal (tradition­ al) fishing whilst €315 million went to industrial fishing.

New UK watchdog

C F (Costa del Sol) Yes, you are enti­ tled to be em­ YOU AND THE LAW padronado, that IN SPAIN is, registered as a resident of your municipality. You can start the process by going to Social Services in your municipal­ ity. Your legal justification is the Resolución del 16 de Marzo de 2015 de la Presidencia del Instituto Na­ cional de Estadistica. You want Article 3.3 which sets out instructions to the various town halls. These in­ structions make it clear that a caravan can be accept­ ed as a valid residence if there is ‘reasonable expec­ tation’ that official notifications can be delivered there. You start with Servicios Sociales only because they help with many problems like yours, including even the homeless.

DAVID SEARL

Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana and Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

FOR the first time in three years it appears that a Spanish Budget will be approved after the minority government obtained support from both Basque and Catalan leaders in Parliament.

On this occasion, Ciudadanos decided that it could not support the budget and it only won a sin­ gle concession, but the combined opposition of centre and right­

GOOD CONDITION: A brand-new recycled bicycle.

A DUTCH company formed in 2011 has come up with a re­ cycling idea which is really what it says, as the owners re­ alised that in Holland tens of thousands of bicycles are thrown away every year and the majority of them have very usable parts.

The Amsterdam­based Roetz Fair Factory not only us­ es up to 30 per cent of all of the discarded bikes it collects but also has a policy of em­ ploying those who have fallen on difficult times and need to get back into the job market.

In the case of the OV­fiets bike rental fleet, Roetz say

that they can reclaim up to 70 per cent of the bicycles passed to it and they even of­ fer to customise bikes to satis­ fy individual customer re­ quirements or needs.

In almost every case, the frame of discarded bicycles is in perfectly good condition, requiring mainly repainting and whilst Holland is admit­ tedly a huge market for com­ muter bicycles, when one considers the number of rac­ ing bikers there are in Spain, this appears to be a market that could be exploited and would be good for the envi­ ronment.

THE British government has decided to launch the Digital Markets Unit (DMU) as part of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in order to create and oversee a new code of practice for digital platforms.

This new watchdog which will go live in April of next year intends to keep a close eye on Facebook and Google in order to ensure that smaller compa­ nies and consumers are not adversely affected by these and similar giant tech corpora­ tions.

There will also be an at­ tempt to support the news in­ dustry by reviewing the rela­ tionship between publishers and platforms.

Spain’s 2021 budget wing parties including the Partido Polular and Vox have insufficient seats to vote it down.

It is known that Podemos in particular are sympathetic to Cat­ alonia’s call for independence, al­

though they do not give it out­ right support, but no doubt acting President of Catalonia, Pere Aragonès, who has thrown his weight behind the decision, ex­ pects to receive some conces­

sions in the long term.

Now, Spain must wait to see money distributed by the Euro­ pean Union recovery fund, which is a vital component in the 2021 budget funding.

14 EWN

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US

LONDON - FTSE 100

See our advert on previous page

C LOSING P RICES N OVEMBER 30

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY 3I Group 1.087,50 1.088,50 Admiral Group 2.878,0 2.886,0 Anglo American 2.288,5 2.288,5 Antofagasta 1.258,50 1.258,50 Ashtead Group 3.199,0 3.212,0 Associated British Foods 2.144,0 2.165,0 AstraZeneca 7.905,0 7.944,0 Auto Trader Group Plc 561,45 562,00 Avast 502,00 503,50 Aveva 3.363,0 3.397,0 Aviva 326,50 327,67 B&M European Value Retail SA480,26 481,10 BAE Systems 510,40 513,00 Barclays 137,78 140,04 Barratt Developments 637,60 637,62 Berkeley 4.680,0 4.680,0 BHP Group 1.728,20 1.735,20 BP 256,40 258,88 British American Tobacco 2.656,2 2.675,5 British Land Company 470,80 475,60 BT Group 119,20 121,50 Bunzl 2.380,0 2.391,0 Burberry Group 1.757,5 1.759,0 Carnival 1.385,6 1.418,0 Centrica 45,15 45,58 Coca Cola HBC AG 2.186,0 2.192,0 Compass 1.389,00 1.417,50 CRH 3.042,0 3.069,0 Croda Intl 6.046,0 6.072,0 DCC 5.714,0 5.756,0 Diageo 2.921,0 2.943,5 DS Smith 340,60 342,12 EasyJet 800,66 828,83 Experian 2.707,0 2.720,0 Ferguson 8.364,0 8.400,0 Flutter Entertainment 13.565,0 13.745,0 Fresnillo 1.059,50 1.100,00 GlaxoSmithKline 1.391,00 1.396,65 Glencore 216,00 217,05 Halma 2.248,0 2.253,0 Hargreaves Lansdown 1.452,00 1.460,00 Hikma Pharma 2.663,00 2.670,00 HSBC 397,10 402,65 IAG 158,21 162,31 Imperial Brands 1.397,00 1.411,50 Informa 541,80 543,40 InterContinental 4.711,0 4.755,0 Intermediate Capital 1.663,00 1.679,00 Intertek 5.644,0 5.670,0 ITV 94,92 95,94 J Sainsbury 216,80 217,60

% CHG. 1.076,00 2.828,0 2.231,0 1.238,50 3.132,0 2.103,0 7.750,0 544,20 491,20 3.342,0 319,70 473,70 503,00 136,90 619,17 4.623,0 1.718,20 252,50 2.647,7 462,90 118,20 2.308,0 1.706,0 1.357,0 44,88 2.160,0 1.385,50 3.012,0 5.906,0 5.654,0 2.905,0 335,80 799,40 2.578,0 8.264,0 13.275,0 1.047,08 1.381,60 212,65 2.204,0 1.418,00 2.613,03 395,80 157,80 1.394,00 535,00 4.704,0 1.642,00 5.482,0 94,14 215,30

NET VOL 85,81K 42,05K 402,92K 184,63K 79,85K 20,86K 508,00K 29,76K 204,73K 136,17K 503,93K 106,61K 694,65K 5,11M 85,38K 27,16K 540,47K 2,57M 46,35K 296,64K 5,56M 53,55K 153,70K 221,15K 2,16M 33,59K 340,71K 123,67K 41,23K 14,87K 760,96K 162,48K 629,38K 589,74K 35,34K 145,67K 128,11K 183,55K 1,19M 137,69K 122,57K 5,65K 4,83M 4,11M 265,86K 315,42K 91,17K 55,16K 17,98K 259,48K 1,01M

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

Johnson Matthey 2.273,0 JSC MMC Norilsk Nickel ADR 28,54 JSC VTB Bank DRC 0,955 Land Securities 669,40 Legal & General 255,90 Lloyds Banking 37,38 London Stock Exchange 8.060,0 Meggitt 398,60 Melrose Industries 158,90 Mondi 1.692,50 National Grid 871,00 NatWest Group 162,35 Next 6.626,0 Ocado 2.252,60 Persimmon 2.711,0 Phoenix 770,00 Prudential 1.213,53 Reckitt Benckiser 6.639,4 Relx 1.776,50 Rentokil 503,60 Rightmove 638,80 Rio Tinto PLC 4.916,0 Rolls-Royce Holdings 109,15 Rosneft 5,93 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.317,40 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.317,0 Royal Dutch Shell B 1.279,3 RSA Insurance 675,20 Sage 606,20 Samsung Electronics DRC 1.519,00 Sberbank 13,35 Schroders 3.217,0 Scottish Mortgage 1.113,96 Segro 918,80 Severn Trent 2.413,0 Smith & Nephew 1.463,50 Smiths Group 1.481,00 Spirax-Sarco Engineering 11.240,0 SSE 1.375,29 St. James’s Place 1.025,00 Standard Chartered 459,80 Standard Life Aberdeen 275,90 Taylor Wimpey 159,95 Tesco 227,40 Tui 511,00 Unilever 4.653,0 United Utilities 907,40 Vodafone Group PLC 124,92 Whitbread 3.127,0 WPP 748,00

CHANGE(P)

% CHG.

NET VOL

2.288,0 28,67 0,961 675,90 257,20 37,98 8.120,0 402,80 161,10 1.700,64 883,00 163,30 6.646,0 2.270,00 2.717,0 794,20 1.220,50 6.650,0 1.784,00 505,00 640,40 4.920,5 110,30 5,99 1.326,31 1.330,6 1.290,8 677,60 613,20 1.519,00 13,51 3.238,0 1.117,00 923,20 2.419,0 1.473,00 1.492,50 11.260,0 1.385,70 1.030,50 464,30 276,70 160,05 228,90 527,60 4.666,0 913,20 125,05 3.169,0 750,80

2.229,0 28,40 0,955 661,30 252,15 36,79 7.932,0 391,40 156,65 1.667,00 870,20 159,50 6.468,0 2.195,00 2.657,0 769,00 1.192,00 6.508,0 1.727,00 488,40 623,80 4.880,0 106,05 5,93 1.301,61 1.301,6 1.262,9 674,60 602,80 1.513,00 13,34 3.194,0 1.095,00 899,40 2.375,0 1.449,50 1.457,50 10.830,0 1.372,39 1.010,60 455,30 269,50 155,85 226,62 510,40 4.522,0 896,40 123,65 3.120,0 738,00

45,44K 218,49K 44,49K 138,74K 477,87K 22,99M 14,46K 292,36K 1,03M 21,02K 1,71M 1,76M 30,96K 38,38K 112,84K 672,26K 54,29K 120,78K 316,26K 401,99K 268,80K 251,06K 4,18M 150,60K 78,59K 1,04M 275,92K 682,99K 78,72K 2,20K 451,82K 84,32K 674,23K 490,84K 92,79K 200,13K 135,88K 16,38K 39,07K 60,49K 685,12K 122,95K 2,70M 445,25K 716,80K 1,79M 178,61K 1,23M 65,11K 213,33K

0.89902

1.1125 Units per €

US dollar (USD) ......................................1.19848 Japan yen (JPY)......................................124.705 Switzerland franc (CHF) .........................1.08201 Denmark kroner (DKK) ...........................7.44161 Norway kroner (NOK) .............................10.5648

currenciesdirect.com/marbella • Tel: +34 952 906 581 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES N OVEMBER 30

COMPANY 3M Alphabet C Amazon.com Amgen Apple Boeing Caterpillar Chevron Cisco Coca-Cola Facebook Goldman Sachs Home Depot Honeywell IBM Intel J&J JPMorgan McDonald’s Merck&Co Microsoft Nike Procter&Gamble Salesforce.com Tesla UnitedHealth Verizon Visa A Walmart Walt Disney

PRICE 176,89 1.793,19 3.195,34 224,81 116,59 216,50 175,08 91,31 42,70 52,70 277,81 235,40 275,99 209,41 124,35 47,45 144,00 121,22 218,33 79,86 215,23 134,25 138,61 247,63 585,76 337,94 60,58 211,00 151,60 147,13

CHANGE 179,63 1.804,00 3.216,19 226,21 117,49 219,93 175,92 92,59 42,98 53,19 279,13 237,30 276,58 209,42 125,31 48,10 144,66 122,35 220,40 80,68 216,27 136,13 138,89 251,84 598,78 338,90 60,74 212,03 152,72 150,35

CHANGE% VOLUME(M) 175,57 1,27M 1.772,44 884,92K 3.190,05 2,39M 221,39 1,70M 116,22 46,69M 216,04 9,97M 173,88 976,86K 90,54 4,63M 42,64 10,77M 52,61 8,50M 274,82 7,81M 233,79 1,05M 274,36 1,63M 207,60 1,43M 123,91 2,09M 47,36 15,92M 143,22 3,06M 121,08 5,98M 217,66 1,39M 79,56 5,39M 214,04 14,51M 133,34 3,51M 137,53 4,25M 247,03 7,40M 578,45 37,56M 331,84 1,56M 60,41 5,76M 208,81 3,51M 151,10 3,67M 146,53 5,31M M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES N OVEMBER 30

COMPANY

CHANGE NET / %

VOLUME

+2.23% +6.29% +22.50% +1.30% +1.23% +8.23% +7.09% +3.80% +10.85% +16.35% +6.07%

286,797 7.28M 11.78M 739,507 884,916 346,648 467,992 136,566 4.51M 43.44M 79,115

-0.54% -1.76% -1.32% -8.62% -1.58% -22.25% -22.32% -1.36% -9.42% -2.55% -3.08%

117,204 12,415 569,393 3.42M 13,875 10,193 5.93M 70,803 5.48M 5,475 305,974

Most Advanced MercadoLibre Inc. Zoom Video Communications Inc. Novavax Inc. Alphabet Inc. Cl A Alphabet Inc. Cl C BeiGene Ltd. ADR Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MarketAxess Holdings Inc. Appian Corp. Cl A Moderna Inc. arGEN-X SE ADR

Most Declined Booking Holdings Inc. First Citizens Bancshares Inc. Cl A Charter Communications Inc. Cl A Sage Therapeutics Inc. Amerco Newborn Acquisition Corp. Un Newborn Acquisition Corp.

Bio-Techne Corp.

Corsair Gaming Inc. Omega Flex Inc. Cardlytics Inc.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

www.euroweeklynews.com

Fading Brexit optimism limits the pound

SUBDUED START: But the GBP/EUR exchange rate has steadily recovered ground.

ASK THE EXPERT Peter Loveday

Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com

STAYING on top of the latest currency news can help you time your transfers more effec­ tively, so find out what you should be look­ ing out for over the next few weeks…

Latest currency news After a subdued start to November, the GBP/EUR exchange rate has steadily recov­ ered ground, climbing from lows of €1.10 to highs of €1.12.

Meanwhile, EUR/GBP fluctuated from highs of £0.90 to lows of £0.88.

GBP/USD also edged higher this month, rising from $1.28 to a high of $1.33.

What’s been happening?

The euro suffered a setback this month af­ ter France and Germany re­entered strict lockdowns to curb the spread of Covid­19 in­ fections.

Moreover, fears for the Eurozone’s econ­ omy, which looks increasingly likely to plum­ met into recession in the fourth quarter, have dampened demand for the single cur­ rency.

Adding further pressure to the euro was the EU’s Covid­19 budget being vetoed by Poland and Hungary, throwing the bloc’s economic situation into a heightened state of uncertainty.

The release of the Eurozone’s latest flash PMI manufacturing and service sector data for November also weighed on the euro as worse­than­expected figures confirmed business activity is contracting in the bloc.

Meanwhile, the pound benefited from news that AstraZeneca announced a Covid­ 19 vaccine with up to 90 per cent efficacy, of which the UK government has pre­ordered

up to 100 million doses.

This news, combined with news of a pos­ sible rollout of coronavirus vaccines in the next few months, boosted GBP exchange rates.

Nevertheless, Brexit uncertainty has con­ tinued to clip some of the Pound’s gains due to a lack of news over positive progress on key obstacles, while Bank of England gover­ nor Andrew Bailey suggested that a no­deal Brexit could prove more severe for the UK economy than the coronavirus pandemic.

What do you need to look out for?

Looking to the weeks ahead, EUR in­ vestors will continue to monitor the Euro­ zone’s economic developments as countries emerge from national lockdowns.

Upcoming manufacturing and unemploy­ ment data from Germany for November will likely drive EUR movement as any significant downturns in the Eurozone’s largest econo­ my would indicate worrying fourth quarter growth in the Eurozone.

Meanwhile, GBP traders will continue to monitor Brexit developments between the UK and the EU as the end of the transition phase rapidly approaches.

As a result, we could see Sterling suffer if there are any further signs that the UK could be leaving the EU without a trade agree­ ment at the end of the year.

However, any further news of a possible Covid­19 vaccine rollout across Britain in De­ cember would prove GBP­positive.

At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your cur­ rency transfers.

Since 1996 we’ve helped more than 325,000 customers with their currency transfers, just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more.

Visit us at our Spanish offices in Costa del Sol, Costa Almeria, North Costa Blanca and South Costa Blanca.

Telephone UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 Email euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com • www.currenciesdirect.com.

3 - 9 December 2020

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16 EWN

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

Madrid Hospital Shortage THE new Isabel Zendal emergency hospital in Madrid, due to open on December 1, did not receive enough requests for voluntary transfer from existing staff, so the Ministry of Health has said ‘forced displacements’ of existing staff will have to be made if the hospital is to open its doors.

The Ministry invited health personnel to apply for a voluntary move to the 699 positions in the new hospital, but on the closing date for applications on Monday, November 23, only 111 out of Madrid’s 70,000 health workers had applied.

For this reason, the Madrid government has indicated that the General Directorate of Human Resources and Labour Relations will fill the vacancies by deploying staff from 11,324 existing contracts which are due for renewal. Regional President, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, announced on Wednesday, November 25 that these contracts will now be extended until June 30, 2021.

War Dead To Be Martyrs I T was announced by the Vatican, on Tuesday, November 24, that Pope Francis, following a meeting with Cardinal-designate Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, has declared that 127 men and women from the Archdiocese of Cordoba, executed during the Spanish Civil War which lasted from

1936 to 1939, have been recognised by the Catholic Church, and they should be declared martyrs, and will now be beatified.

The founder of the schools of Ave Maria, in Granada, Spanish Fr Andres Manjon, born in 1846, and died in 1923, was also recognised by Pope Francis, for his heroic virtues.

FEATURE

What about positive praise?

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DON’T you think it’s time we cut Boris and Co a little slack? This present Conservative cabinet was originally selected with one overriding purpose ­ to steer the UK through the UK’s biggest economic and historical transition since 1973, ie Brexit.

Instead, in what amounted to hardly more than the blink of an eye, it was faced with the country’s greatest crisis since the Second World War. The goalposts were not only moved, but positively transported! Well, I for one think that in the light of a truly unprecedented situation ­ which is still changing virtually by the day ­ they have so far managed to achieve an effectively competent result. In a fairly successful effort to prop up the population, including those in business, they have injected billions into the economy, while at the same time managing to reduce infection levels to controllable proportions.

They have made mistakes, but frankly

the sheer weight of daily problems and the responsibilities they have had to contend with simply defies the imagination.

Across the full gamut these ongoing assessments must be a positive nightmare. Many senior members appear daily on national TV and radio, endeavouring to openly and very publicly explain the reasons for decisions they have made.

They are constantly in the unenviable and impossible position of trying to please ‘all of the people, all of the time.’ And what do they get for it?

Well certainly no praise from the left wing media that’s for sure. It is actually almost intelligence insulting to see the likes of the BBC and its cronies, desperately trying to gain the political kudos they clearly hope may one day rescue their beloved Labour party.

When Sky’s awful Kay Burley was interviewing Rishi Sunak, who I happen to believe has been one of the most eloquent and capable members of all, she asked him how, in the light of his intention to reduce our ludicrous overseas aid budget, he slept at night knowing that thousands of children would

starve because of his decision! I was delighted to see the way he dealt with her derisory suggestion, reducing her to the final sarcastic comment she always mumbles when she has lost an intelligent argument.

All their interviewees are carefully chosen, predominantly to echo their own sentiments and agenda. For every rare guest who considers the government is coping with the situation, they will deliver a dozen ‘experts’ who don’t.

And as if all this isn’t enough, through it all this beleaguered government is also trying to negotiate the almost immeasurable problems of Brexit!

Well all I can say is thank the Lord it is Boris and his Cabinet that are at the helm.

For all their faults, the idea that it could have been Jeremy Corbyn and the likes of Diana Abbott trying to sort it all out is nothing short of horrific.

So what about a little positive praise and encouragement? Remember, strong leadership is never popular; it isn’t that kind of contest.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland Mon. Wed. Fri.

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

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FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

Renting in Spain?

CONSULAR MATTERS AS a lawyer and Danish Consul, I have seen a massive increase in clients ask­ ing about renting here in Spain.

Everyone will of course be aware that the transition period comes to an end on December 31, 2020 for the Brits.

Realistically there is not much time to purchase a property before the end of the year, especially with UK citizens having to quarantine in the UK for 14 days when they return to the United Kingdom from Spain. There are also those people who simply do not want to invest in the Spanish property mar­ ket and prefer the freedom of renting.

There is a school of thought that the property prices will go down next year, but who knows.

This means that people who have

decided not to buy in Spain are turn­ ing to renting as an option to show that they are living in Spain and are therefore able to make an application for residency or residencia as it is called in Spain. There are of course a number of reputable agents who can help you find a place. There are also numerous private advertisements on sites.

Sadly, there are a few scams that are out there, and you must take care.

The most popular are fraudsters rent­ ing a property on somewhere and tak­ ing deposits and rent in advance be­ fore disappearing. There are even criminal gangs breaking into proper­ ties and doing the same thing.

Make sure that you see an indepen­ dent lawyer in order to guard against these scams and to make sure that the contract is legal and negotiated in your favour. For example, you may need a notice clause that allows you

to leave early, as you may be looking for a property to buy in the not too distant future.

There are three different property rentals contracts in Spain. The first is where you rent a house for a holiday like on Airbnb, Booking.com or others.

The second is where you take a rental contract for up to six months, this may because you are working or studying away from home.

The third is long term rentals for 12 months or more, these are contracts where it is your main place of resi­ dence. If you follow the terms of the agreement, then you can extend the term to five years even if the landlord does not agree.

This of course is not legal advice and again as always seek independent ad­ vice from a registered lawyer before signing or paying any monies. You can obtain a list of lawyers from the Con­ sulates.

Marisa Moreno Castillo, Senior Lawyer at Just Law Solicitors and Consul for Denmark.

Website: www.justawsolicitors.com email: info@justlaw.es

EWN 19

20 EWN

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

DAVID WORBOYS SOME decades ago, I remember being buttonholed by a drunk at a large party in Brighton. He may well have been a gate­ crasher, as he seemed to lower the gener­ al tone. Breathing alcoholic fumes into my face (no masks in those days!) he was ram­ bling on about how his brother frequently advised him to watch his drinking and how his brother was wrong.

He knew better than all those trying to give him advice. How smart he was! How successful his life had been. How he had overcome being bullied at school. When he started boasting about his sexual con­ quests, I concluded that he was deluded, frustrated and egocentric. But most of all, I thought, what a bore!

And so we come to Trump. There are many ways I can think of to describe him.

Self­obsessed, lacking in judgement, impul­ sive, immature, power­crazy and inconsid­ erate. But for me the best description would involve reference to a part of the anatomy between the buttocks.

This boring little man leaves his country in turmoil because he cannot accept that anybody can beat him at anything or be more capable of doing anything than he is, despite being a proven failure as a man, as

FEATURE

WHAT A BORE! TRUMP: Selfobsessed, lacking in judgement, impulsive, immature, power crazy and inconsiderate.

a businessman, as a leader and as Presi­ dent.

At the time of writing, he plays golf or sulks in his beloved Oval Office, refusing to face the world, admit defeat and co­oper­ ate in the transfer of power in the interests of the health, economy and security of the millions he is supposed to lead. He moans, boasts, tweets the same old nonsensical grievances over and over again, well aware of the fact that he is not wanted. What a bore!

The culture of lies, cheating and juvenile insults and the fomenting of racism and di­ vision continues. And why, as I write, has nobody been willing or able to remove him, kicking and barking, from the White House to a psychiatric unit? The President has as­ sumed the power of a mad dictator ­ firing anybody who disagrees with him and

breaking the law or amending it by control­ ling the Supreme Court. Is this really democracy? Even King George III had a re­ gent during his 10 years of insanity. The longer Trump stays in power, the greater the danger to the USA and the world in general.

It’s time to look forward and restore val­ ues. The country desperately needs leader­ ship in order to activate control of the pan­ demic, the consequent rebuilding of businesses and the global economy. There needs to be trust in individuals and institu­ tions and mature dialogue with allied coun­ tries as well as those posing a threat to se­ curity. Proper legitimate trade deals need to be implemented rather than random embargos and punitive trade wars.

It looks as if Biden and his team are on the right track.

FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

3 - 9 December 2020

EWN 21

Advertising Feature

UK bank closures how we can help IN September thousands of expats living in Europe were told that their UK bank accounts or credit cards would be closed by the end of the year as a result of Brexit, with Lloyds, Halifax and Barclaycard among the banks planning to close accounts.

Other big name banks have also refused to rule out account closures for expats.

The reason for the potential ac­ count closures is the likely impact of Brexit on ‘passporting’ arrange­ ments.

Passporting refers to UK banks providing services to customers based in other states of the Euro­ pean Economic Area (EEA) without direct authorisation.

As it stands, passporting rules as we know them will end on Decem­ ber 31, 2020 unless a new agree­ ment with the EU is reached.

This means that UK banks will need to have separate authorisation in every EEA country they want to operate in, resulting in some banks deciding to close their accounts in some countries.

It has been estimated that around 13,000 accounts will be closed by Lloyds, Halifax and the Bank of Scot­ land, but many more accounts could be affected in time.

The situation can vary depending on where you live in Europe, but it is understandably unsettling with many expats now scrambling for an alternative means of managing their finances.

In light of this, we wanted to outline some of the ways we at Currencies Direct can help you manage your international fi­ nances.

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There’s no limit as to how much you can store in a currency wallet or how long you can hold it for. Ad­ ditionally, any funds held in your wallet will be protected outside the FSCS scheme.

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With our service you’ll always re­ ceive a great exchange rate and you won’t be charged transfer fees, mak­ ing your money go further.

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We even offer a handy app so you can manage your international pay­ ments on the go in a couple of taps.

Larger transfers A number of our customers have mentioned needing to move their savings abroad ahead of their UK ac­ counts being closed. If you need to make a larger transfer you can move your savings into your wallet and our expert team will help you pick the best time to convert your money. You can also utilise handy services like lim­ it orders, where you set the rate you want to achieve and your transfer oc­ curs automatically as soon as the market moves to that level.

Refer a friend If the closure of UK bank accounts is likely to impact someone you know you can also refer them to us and benefit from our refer a friend offer.

With our offer you’ll receive a £50 Amazon voucher every time some­ one you refer registers with us and transfers over £5,000 (or equivalent).

At Currencies Direct we’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers.

Since 1996 we’ve helped more than 325,000 customers save time and money with excellent exchange rates, no fees and expert support. With 20+ global branches, including 17 across Spain and Portugal, we’re never far away when you need us.

Give us a call to find out more. *The information provided was correct as of 30/10/2020 but could be subject to change. ** Currencies Direct’s bank providers do not monitor the funds they place on safeguarding accounts or how they operate these accounts. It is Currencies Direct’s responsibility to segregate funds.

EW YOUR PAPER - YOUR VOICE - YOUR OPINION Letters should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: www.euroweeklynews.com Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.

HAS THIS HAPPENED TO YOU?

COMMENTS FROM FACEBOOK Covid Jabs will not be made mandatory in France - Good or Bad? Optional... But you’re not boarding an aircraft without one. You’re not coming into this shopping centre without one. You can’t work here without one. People will have the ‘incentives’ to have the vaccine and they will be made to feel like they made a choice to have it themselves.

AF

Catering Assistant Admits Theft From Queen’s London Residence Well, let’s face it, everything the monarchy owns was stolen in the first place anyway. Nobody ever asked for a monarchy. They put themselves where they are by using terrible methods.

DS

DGT inspection week TODAY I received a fine from Finestrat Town Hall for €751 reduced to €300.40 if I paid before December 14, 2020. The reason for the fine, I left a 100 per cent plastic beach chair at the side of the plastic recycling bin as it would not fit in. I don’t mind paying a fine if I did something wrong, but I think the amount I have been fined is out of order.

AF Finestrat, Alicante

OUR VIEW CHRISTMAS OVER CHARITY

AS this awful year comes to an end Christmas is a well-needed festivity for bringing people together and raising spirits within our communities, however, Christmas light switch-ons around the world are causing serious debate.

Malaga City alone reportedly spends €600,000 on its lights and cost is just one of many issues people have with the whole spectacle this year.

With families in crisis living in poverty due to lack of work and children dependent on charity for presents under the tree, is it really appropriate to be splashing so much cash?

Local charities are digging deep to raise funds for local families yet local councils are prioritising Christmas lights and it seems really immoral.

The argument though is that the decoration of towns raises people’s spirits and is a feel-good factor which we all need after such a traumatic year when loved ones have been lost, and sickness and mental health issues have been at their highest in decades.

The other issue raised by most is that of the crowds - when we can’t have more than sixx in our homes and social distancing is enforced in bars and restaurants, causing a serious lack of revenue for businesses, how is it acceptable to encourage thousands to gather in the streets together to witness Christmas light switch-ons?

Saturday, November 28, saw the Food Fairies on the Costa Del Sol raise over €20,000 at their wonderful charity event.

These kind-hearted ladies have been providing food hampers for local families since the start of the pandemic, helping mothers eat so they can produce milk for their newborn babies, and feeding those in poverty.

If a local council can blow €600,000 on Christmas lights charities like this shouldn’t need to exist, because the problem shouldn’t exist.

CORRECTIONS

Dog Attacks Having just read a letter published relating to dog attacks.

Your reader suggests walking with a stick to presumably use as a weapon of defence, however this can be seen by a brave dog as a challenge. As a retired police dog handler and a trainer of dogs for more than 40 years, I feel qualified to offer a little advice.

Taking a small can of hairspray or similar (nothing toxic) in your pocket is an excellent form of defence. Sprayed into the dog’s face, eyes if possible, will encourage most dogs to back off. This won’t do permanent harm, but should do the trick. Incidentally we used to advise young women to do the same for their personal safety.

Best wishes B Spensley

Letters to Leapy With regard to your offering this week my rap analogy is Rap does to music what rust does to cars.

With regard to illegal immigrants ,why is that virtually all the media, led by the BBC, use the words migrants and refugees and have virtually removed the words illegal immigrants from their reporting vocabulary.

When I was young and watched the news on the TV (50’s and 60’s) I was always impressed by the correct English and grammar that was used. A glaring example of poor pronunciation is the BBC version of the word Islamists pronounced very quickly as Islumists. For the uneducated amongst us the word does not have a U in it. Come on BBC don’t be afraid to say it like it is. READY 1, 2, 3, ISLAMISTS. There you go, didn’t hurt did it?

I could go on... oooops!!! It’s stopped raining, time to get back outside. I’ll save it for the next rainy day.

Keep telling it like it is even if it does annoy one or two. After all they are a minority.

P J Elliott Well said Leapy in almost every column every week. It’s refreshing to read something from someone that says it as it is. It’s about time more people in charge took the stand.

Regards P Shaw

HAVE YOUR SAY All letters by email or post should carry the writer’s address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published.

Readers who have missed correspondence can see all letters - which can be edited before publication - posted on: www.euroweeklynews.com.

You think they’d check children are properly seated in cars too, so many not in car seats, not even belted in, or in the front seat when they are not old enough or have no reason to be. I see this daily, who would be the first to cry when something happened to the child and it could have been prevented.

MJ

Scottish Government Rewards NHS Staff and Social Care Workers for their ‘Extraordinary’ Work Shame Boris doesn’t value his NHS instead he thinks clapping is sufficient, embarrassing excuse of a leader.

IJ

WHO Advises Against Different Families Meeting at Christmas Makes sense not to all meet for Xmas. Basically the UK is suddenly going to throw itself wide open for everyone to meet up over Xmas.

Err... what’s the sense in that.

VK

Bottles and other missiles thrown at police as they break up illegal rave and issue more than 100 fines.

Those who don’t want to obey the law should not be treated in hospital if they become ill with the virus.

TA

Breaking News - Health Secretary Matt Hancock addresses the nation The way things are going January will be the real test as to any control at all!

IM

Quality and quantity 5.25 euros a tin where I live on Costa Blanca. Someone did put a photo of the contents of a tin of Roses on Facebook and there were only four purple ones. I agree, too many soft, sickly ones now, I have swapped to Celebrations.

GR

At the EWN, we pride ourselves that reports are accurate and fair. If we do slip up, we promise to set the record straight in a clear, no-nonsense manner. To ask for an inaccuracy to be corrected. Email: editorial@euroweeklynews.com

25

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YOUR STARS FOR NEXT 7 DAYS ARIES (March 21 - April 20) There is a strong urge to be up and doing something to further your artistic needs. Be sure that you know what is important.

Keep it simple and aim straight for it. There may be other options to be explored, but do not go off at a tangent. To do so would see you have many fingers in many pies but making little real progress. Trust your instincts.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) Although you are feeling more confident in many ways, there is also a secret insecurity.

There is a strange emotional atmosphere this week, which perplexes you. An unusual feeling that you need to change your surroundings cannot be put down to a seasonal ‘nesting’ instinct.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Waiting for just the right time to do and say things this week can produce miracles. Spontaneity may be your watchword but forward planning is where real progress is at the moment. It’s not a week to expect cooperation from others.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) If you are James Bond, I see no surprises in the week ahead. If you are not, then I certainly do.

Something quite shocking crosses your path, so be cautious in your approach to new situations. Keep your eyes and ears open and be prepared to seek advice.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) At last it is clear that the future holds something quite exciting.

Looking back during the past few years there has been a build-up to this moment.

Treading a new path is half the story. There is much to be discovered both outside and inside your sphere.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Your heart is saying ‘Let’s get out and have some fun.’ Your head is saying ‘Okay, but let’s leave it until later.’ Which is right? Well, one thing is for sure, emphasis on finances is restraining. You are, however, building on something strong for the future.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) What others see as our way ahead is not always the path which we want to tread. It would be easy to be cosy and not take a chance. Is that what you really want? Outside influences are heavy and pressing at times.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Be sure not to put up with tedious comments. Someone is trying to rile you. Who are they to think this way? It is foolish and impossible to please this person. Avoid them and move on to something out of their sphere. A few days away clears your head and gives a more balanced picture.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) Who wants you to go where and who wants you to do what? Each day seems to be spoken for before it arrives.

Spending your life like this means running out of credit on your health. Do not neglect your well-being for the wishes of others.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) There are plenty of people who will tell you that what you seek does not exist. They will also tell you that what you feel is unsustainable. This is, however, no time to compromise your dreams or emotional needs.

Taking a bright view and a chance now seems unusual to those round you.

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) The last time that you sat down and thought about your finances it was confusing. Things are a lot simpler now. Keep emotions and the needs of others out of the equation. Balance is what this week is all about.

Get the percentages right now and it is plain sailing for the immediate future.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Something comes to your attention that makes you feel both anger and injustice. As you are urged to speak out and put your cards on the table, you hesitate. Be sure to have the true facts of the matter because this gives you real confidence.

TIME OUT

HEXAGRAM The purpose of the Hexagram puzzle is to place the 19 six-letter words into the 19 cells. The letters at the edges of interlocking cells MUST BE THE SAME. The letters in the words must be written CLOCKWISE. The word in cell 10 (GARDEN) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

ADVENT CLOUDY CORRAL DIGEST DIPOLE EMERGE ENERGY FILTER GARDEN (10) GENIAL ILLUME INLAND INTENT PUPPET RELIEF REPEAL TEEING UMPIRE UPTAKE

LOTTERY UK NATIONAL LOTTERY Sat 28 November

9-27-35 45-46-57

BONUS BALL

32

IRISH LOTTO Sat 28 November

5-6-16 18-45-47

BONUS BALL

41

EURO MILLIONS Tue 24 November

BONUS BALL

8

25-33-38 42-50

12

Fri 27 November

BONUS BALL

2-05-08 14-16

8 9

EL MILLON: HGG28522 LA PRIMITIVA Thurs 26 November

BONUS BALL

17-22-26 29-31-44

20 9

JOKER: 2287293 Sat 28 November

BONUS BALL

2-04-13 21-25-28

32

JOKER: 7671945

9

TIME OUT

26

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CODE BREAKER

ENGLISH-SPANISH

The clues are mixed, some clues are in Spanish and some are in English.

Each number in the Code Breaker grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. In this week’s puzzle, 1 represents Z and 15 represents B, so fill in Z every time the figure 1 appears and B every time the figure 15 appears. Now, using your knowledge of the English language, work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you discover the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and the control grid.

Across 1 Lavado (7) 5 Cisnes (aves) (5) 8 Cuero (piel) (7) 9 Oferta (5) 10 To ring (telephone) (5) 11 Enamel (7) 12 Abades (6) 14 Treinta (6) 17 Briefcase (7) 19 Deporte (5) 22 Meeting (5) 23 Sentence (linguistics) (7) 24 Mirar fijamente (5) 25 Renacuajo (7)

Down 1 El país de Gales (5) 2 España (5) 3 Heredar (7) 4 Jardín (6) 5 Tormenta (5) 6 Pin (sewing) (7) 7 Cirugía (7) 12 Clams (7) 13 Scales (instrument) (7) 15 Marido (7) 16 A pie (2,4) 18 Suit (for man) (5) 20 Rust (5) 21 Tenso (5)

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION QUICK Across: 1 Basis, 4 Poker, 7 Renovates, 8 Seek, 9 Snooty, 12 Dither, 13 Open, 16 Albatross, 18 Argue, 19 Sadly.

Down: 1 Bogus, 2 Serpent, 3 Song, 4 Paving, 5/17 Kit bag, 6 Risky, 10 Opposed, 11 Beetle, 12 Drama, 14 Navvy, 15 Boss.

BOGGLED

FUTOSHIKI

Across: 1 Reloj, 3 Muebles, 6 Pumpkin, 8 Grace, 10 Rocks, 11 Sisters, 14 Anoche, 15 Cartel, 17 Scandal, 20 Perro, 21 Dress, 22 Believe, 23 Riqueza, 24 Scots.

Down: 1 Ropería, 2 Jokes, 3 Menos, 4 Edges, 5 Stews, 7 Microwave, 9 Afeitarse, 12 Inch, 13 Yema, 16 Lioness, 17 Sudor, 18 Desde, 19 Libra, 20 Pills.

amen ament tame tamp tent temp teen teem enema neem pate paten patent mate mete meet meow meows moms moos mown mows gent gene genet goof goos gown befog feta fete feet feign feint foment foemen omen tiny twig twin twos twosome elms moment moon moony women womb woof woos wino winos winy wont nowt nows coomb coombe cooee coign coigne coin comb combe come cows coos clef smog some sown socle soon swig swoon scow sonic

CODE BREAKER

NONAGRAM ahem ghat hair hang hare harm hart hate hear heat heir hint hire math meth nigh

CRYPTIC

Across: 1 Encased, 5 Tasks, 8 Stern, 9 Montana, 10 Repulse, 11 Cited, 12 Manse, 14 Offer, 19 Roses, 21 Abridge, 23 Car wash, 24 Moron, 25 Shame, 26 San Remo.

Down: 1 Ensure, 2 Cheap, 3 Singles, 4 Damsel, 5 Tunic, 6 Startle, 7 Shandy, 13 Austria, 15 Fireman, 16 Erects, 17 Gashes, 18 Lean-to, 20 Stake, 22 Dirge.

ENGLISH-SPANISH

rhea tanh than them then thin earth eight garth girth harem hater heart hinge might mirth neath neigh night right thane thegn their therm thine thing anthem anther aright gather hanger haring hating hegira hermit hernia hetman hitman menhir rehang hairnet harming hearing heating hematin megahit earthing NIGHTMARE

HEXAGRAM

WORD LADDER

1 SCHEME 2 TOWHEE 3 ODIOUS 4 TROPHY 5 CURATE 6 RADIAL 7 FERRET 8 RAMROD 9 FLORIN 10 FAMOUS 11 ERRATA 12 RABIES 13 COARSE 14 BEATEN 15 STRUCK 16 EXCUSE 17 NEATER 18 UNLIKE 19 RESIDE

MUST MAST MALT MALE SALE SAVE or

KAKURO

SUDOKU

MUST RUST RUSE RASE RAVE SAVE

27

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Axarquía TODAY

ARCHIDONA

WEATHER

CASABERMEJA VELEZ-MALAGA NERJA RINCON MALAGA DE LA VICTORIA

TOMORROW

ARCHIDONA

CASABERMEJA VELEZ-MALAGA NERJA MALAGA

SATURDAY

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA

ARCHIDONA

CASABERMEJA VELEZ-MALAGA NERJA MALAGA

S: Sun

C: Cloudy

Th: Thunder

RINCON DE LA VICTORIA

Cl: Clear

Sh: Showers

Sn: Snow

Malaga TODAY: MAX 18 MIN 8 Fri 17 10 Sat 15 10 Sun 14 9 Mon 17 8 Tues - 16 9 Wed 15 9

Alicante TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 12 Fri 16 10 Sat 17 13 Sun 16 12 Mon 16 11 Tues - 19 11 Wed 19 12

Almeria TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 7 Fri 19 9 Sat 15 8 Sun 14 10 Mon 15 11 Tues - 16 12 Wed 17 11

Benidorm TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 11 Fri 19 12 Sat 18 11 Sun 17 12 Mon 19 12 Tues - 17 11 Wed 17 159 Mallorca TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 11 Fri 19 13 Sat 17 12 Sun 17 11 Mon 18 11 Tues 17 12 Wed 19 11

Bilbao TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 10 Fri 17 9 Sat 16 11 Sun 14 11 Mon 15 10 Tues 16 13 Wed 15 15 Madrid TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 13 Fri 16 15 Sat 15 12 Sun 14 12 Mon 16 13 Tues 17 14 Wed 17 16

TIME OUT

FUTOSHIKI Fill in the squares so that each digit from 1 to 6 occurs exactly once in each row and column. Greater-than and less-than signs indicate the relationship of the two adjacent squares. There is only one solution, and you can find it without guessing.

BOGGLED How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules?

• The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

• Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms.

• No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice.

• No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.

Barcelona TODAY: MAX 19, MIN 11 Fri 17 11 Sat 16 12 Sun 15 11 Mon 16 11 Tues 18 9 Wed 19 10

Euro Weekly News strives for accuracy, but cannot be held responsible for any errors in published forecasts

TARGET:

SCORING:

• Average: 17 • Good: 23 • Very good: 33 • Excellent: 43

4 letters: 1 point 5 letters: 2 points 6 letters: 3 points 7 letters: 5 points 8 or more letters: 11 points

KAKURO Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.

CRYPTIC Across 1 Small charts for the horses (7) 5 Row about head of ginger cat (5) 8 Part of book showing group of clergymen (7) 9 Quiet law-breaking garment? (5) 10 Argument at badger's den gains nothing (3-2) 11 Cousin is upset about hard pillow (7) 12 Broken ribs on birds (6) 14 Electricians leave car aboard ship (6) 17 Give insincere praise that's less sparkling (7) 19 Tatty rag on musical instrument (5) 22 Clip of quiet organ (5) 23 Many getting slimmer, and smarter (7) 24 Start looking after the machine (5) 25 Loose rocks by church make an unpleasant sound (7) Down 1 They are used for holding coal fires (5) 2 Sailor a foot nearer the stern (5) 3 Disappointment of a flat tyre? (3,4) 4 Collided with stop-start vehicle (6) 5 The trials and tribulations of international games (5) 6 Craftsman less inclined to work after midnight (7) 7 Gives in to the French about rents (7) 12 Rejection of damaged seal fur (7) 13 Showing two undergarments is most valiant (7) 15 Landing includes solitary colonist (7) 16 Ruins the king, it's said (6) 18 Rich cake a part of breakfast or tea (5) 20 Spiritual benefactor that is after information (5) 21 Direction given in Babylon or Thebes (5)

TIME OUT

28

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SUDOKU

QUICK

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9.

There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

Across 1 Not busy (9) 6 Before the appointed time (5) 7 Thoughts (5) 9/14 Informant's warning (3,3) 10 Suitcases (7) 11 Childhood disease (7) 14 See 9 16 Necessities (5) 17 Rub or scrape out (5) 18 Unknowns (9)

Down 1 Watchful (5) 2 Powered flying vehicle (9) 3 Faithful (5) 4 Take along (5) 5 Squander (5) 8 Turn from liquid into vapour (9) 11 Repairs (5) 12 Unsuccessful participant (5) 13 Back of a boat (5) 15 Gives food to (5)

WORD LADDER Move from the start word (DINE) to the end word (HALL) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

DINE

SPANISH LESSON BACK HALL

Christmas Time Christmas presents – Regalos de Navidad

NONAGRAM

Christmas tree – Arbol de Navidad Baubles – Bolas de decoración Tree lights – Luces de arbol de navidad

RACHEL AND FRIENDS

Wrapping paper – Papel para envolver

How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case R) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

Sellotape - Fixo Ribbon - Lazo Scissors – Tijeras Poinsetta plant – Flor de Pascua Father Christmas – Papa Noel

TARGET:

Sleigh – Trineo Reindeer - Reno

audreyquinton99@gmail.com

• Average: 10 • Good: 14 • Very good: 20 • Excellent: 26

3 - 9 December 2020

to read more visit

29

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Women more likely to suffer illness ARE women really the weak­ er sex?

A survey by retail analysts Mintel said that women were more likely to report having suffered various ail­ ments, with 81 per cent re­ porting suffering a headache in the past year, versus 68 per cent of men. It found 57 per cent of women have suffered back pain, com­ pared to 50 per cent of

men and one in three women; 34 per cent said they had experienced five or more different types of pain in the last 12 months versus one in four men. Some 57 per cent of women who suf­ fered a cold or flu said they

coped by going to bed and resting, compared to a lower 44 per cent of men. The study found that 78 per cent of women are happy to turn to over the counter medi­ cines when they are ill, com­ pared to 66 per cent of men.

Mintel’s Consumer Lifestyles Analyst said the research showed that women are notably more likely to experience more types of pain as well as ex­ periencing a greater range of pains. This could be due to the fact that women contin­ ue to multi­task in terms of running the household, car­ ing for the children and holding down a job leading them to feel run down and more susceptible to bugs and illness.

HEADACHES: Women suffer from pain.

Is technology adversely affecting test results?

Do you have a right to voice your opinion?

DIONE LOCKYER THE definition of opinion ­ A view or judgement formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.

The meaning of opinion, as stated above, is the view of either yourself or others. An opinion is not necessarily based on fact, but rather based on an individual’s experience or feelings.

The year 2020 has seen more opinions than ever. Whether you are for or against a vaccine, whether you are a Boris or Trump supporter, whether you are for or against Brexit. It is all based on YOUR opinion, YOUR lifestyle/circumstances and YOUR past or present experiences.

There are two very popular sayings: ‘Other people’s opinions are none of your busi­ ness,’ and, ‘Keep your opinions to yourself.’

My question to you is do you have a right to voice them?

Opinions are important, and in some ways, im­ portant for our mental health, if done in the cor­ rect manner.

You are in charge! No one else can do this for you, you HAVE to do it for yourself.

If you are ready to take the step, join my wonderful women-only membership https://dionelockyermindsetmentor.com/membership-offer/

Bipolar obsessions MS BIPOLAR UP AND DOWN WITH BALANCE UNEDITED

TECHNOLOGY: Children love it but for some it may be detrimental to their education.

LAPTOPS and tablets are be­ coming ever more present in the classroom with many praising their ability to as­ sist youngsters and prepare them for a technologically growing world. But are they affecting a child’s test scores?

A study conducted at the United States Military Acad­

emy found that students who were allowed to use laptops or tablets in class performed worse than those who went without.

The researchers said those with an initially higher grade point average were most heavily affected with the devices appearing to ‘dumb them down.’

Students who were al­ lowed unrestricted use of their electronic devices saw their scores drop by 1.7 points on average on the 100 point marking scale.

The negative effects were seen most heavily in male students, and those who came into the class with higher grades.

For example: Woman A ­ A lady who has quite clearly stated that she and her family will not have the latest vaccine. She genuinely feels that there is not enough research and whilst she believes there is a virus, she does not believe the vaccine is neces­ sary.

Woman B ­ A lady who is pro vaccine. She is adamant that the vaccine will save hers and the world’s lives. She strongly believes that if she does not have the vaccine, she is at risk.

You would have read each of the above exam­ ples, and already based your opinion on one of these ladies, without either knowing them person­ ally, nor knowing their reasons behind their deci­ sions. Some of you may have decided to judge them and voice YOUR opinion on THEIR decision.

Now I believe that EVERYONE is entitled to an opinion, the same as everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. But I also believe that other people’s opinions should be respected.

When you judge or argue the opinion of others, it is ALWAYS based on your own fears. So before you respond. Start by asking yourself: Is this kind?

Is this necessary?

And most importantly. What AM I AFRAID OF!

THE symptom that every person with bipolar avoids talking about, because we know we are obsessing but we can’t stop it!

Whilst juggling the depression with the mania, often enough a third ball to juggle with gets thrown into the mix : anxiety.

Is she ignoring me? What time are we meeting?

Why isn’t anyone telling me! Are they avoiding me?

I need more information. Why doesn’t someone tell me what is happening? Are they angry with me?

They are quieter than usual , what is going on? What are they not telling me? I need to plan for Christmas.

I need to write a list, I need to write another list, I don’t like my handwriting in this one, maybe use another pen?

This thinking can be so physically painful.

Compulsively checking social media or your phone.

Calling and leaving more than one message and not waiting for a reply. Getting upset when people don’t call back or message back.

Uncertainty is painful for the bipolar mind. We want answers NOW! in order to feel better. If we can’t get the answers, our bodies choose repetitive behaviours as a calming tool. We then go into overdrive thinking of every possible worse case scenario.

This doesn’t work! Sometimes we need someone to

look us in the eyes and tell us that we are worrying beyond anything we could possibly control.

Once I start obsessing over something I find it difficult to stop. From little insignificant non-issues to the larger things in life It’s not just thoughts that I can’t keep up with, and then the most insignificant thing will make me explode.

For example : I am waiting for results from some blood tests back from the Doctor to check all my levels are okay, so my mind automatically is expecting the blood tests to come back terrible. I am waiting for results back from the vet because my dog has had a lump on his back for a while now that won’t go away, automatically I am thinking how much an operation is going to cost and will he be okay, I can’t begin to imagine my boy not to be around, my fridge decided to pack up on me over the weekend, it has an alarm that goes off when it goes over a certain temperature , the sound was piercing. Next thing I know I am sat on my kitchen floor crying over my fridge not working!!

Bless him, my dad came round to my house as he knew I wasn’t right and sat with me whilst I sobbed over a fridge, reality of it all, I wasn’t just crying over a fridge - I had reached breaking point.

It doesn’t have to be the bigger things in life, often I worry about literally nothing. Anxiety takes over. It starts with worry, then turns to anxiety and I struggle with obsessing over ridiculous or irrelevant things.

Follow me on Facebook @Mswillowbipolar Love Ms Bipolar X

msbipolar@euroweeklynews.com

PETS

HOWEVER much we’ve all en­ joyed extended time at home, we all fancy a change. Some peo­ ple are already looking to later in 2021 for a holiday and booking house­sitters to take care of pets and home while they are away.

Others are planning a trip over the winter holidays. Have you made your plans yet?

30

www.euroweeklynews.com • 3 - 9 December 2020

SPONSORED BY

Care for pets in the holidays and beyond! that we are all in this together.

These are the steps one client has taken so far: 1. Registered as a homeown­ er on HouseSitMatch.com 2. She chose a Premium ac­ count (£89 per year) to ensure she could get help online when need­ ed 3. Created a profile with pho­ tos of Daisy and the house, inc fea­ tures of the property (ie swim­ ming pool) 4. Posted a house­sit advert stating the plans for a holiday in the winter, subject to Covid per­ mitted travel Do you need a pet­sitter in 2021? Then get started right now.

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our net­ work for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then

We’d like to encourage you to plan ahead for house­sitters if you have trips planned over the holi­ days to see family and friends or just to get away. Now is the time to get ready. We will help you as much as we can. Our philosophy is

While you’re away over the holidays, they will need company.

build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose whom you’d like to care for your pets.

Trustpilot Testimonials ­ 4.8 / 5 Excellent rating (New Trustpilot rating scale) Here’s what members have said about us ­ HouseSitMatch found us a per­ fect house­sitter…

HouseSitMatch found us a per­ fect house­sitter while we were away in Canada and we were de­ lighted with the care and atten­ tion that HouseSitMatch took in helping us find the right person.

Ros Morris ­ Dog owner How do you join?

Please register online via our website www.Housesit match.com ­ Choose a membership plan ­ Please note prices go up soon so sign up now on subscrip­ tion to secure these prices: • Standard (DIY option) = £69 pa • Premium (with support at each step) = £89 pa

Do you need a house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20 per cent discount using coupon code P2020 - an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com.

It’s all a load of buzzcocks!

MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION Views of a Grumpy Old Man I HAVE had enough of all the politicians and TV experts telling everybody they have to do this and that during this pandemic.

What should happen is they stop getting paid. Get nothing, the same as millions are having to do. I listen to Piers Morgan et al giving expert advice whilst being paid mil­ lions and Piers flogging his book every five seconds. Things would soon change if they all stopped getting paid. They come up with only stuff the type of person that does not live in the real world could do.

Take the Christmas thing. One of my mates has three daughters. They all have two kids so, according to the rules, only two daughters’ families can go round for lunch. How do you decide who’s not com­ ing? Can you imagine ‘phoning up one of your kids and saying we’ve had a chat and decided as you’re our least favourite kid and so as not to break the rules you can’t come round.

It’s nonsense and totally un­policeable. I have another friend who has nine people living in his house and his brother has sev­ en plus another kid who lives on his own

but they can all get together. It’s a ridicu­ lous situation. If that wasn’t bad enough they are even saying you can’t play games like Monopoly, Ludo and other board games.

If anyone is interested I’ve gone on to the deep web and found a couple of un­ derground clubs that are allowing people to play Twister! It’s all a load of buzzcocks!

My mother­in­law is 94 and has told my daughter she can’t go and visit her over Christmas because her two sons are com­ ing over. If you do visit you’re told don’t hug, put your hand over your heart in­ stead.

Then there’s the hospitality industry in absolute chaos. Can’t drink without a sub­ stantial meal when nobody has any idea what that consists of. You have to leave when you have finished your meal so peo­ ple will just take longer to finish. The point is it doesn’t matter what the government say, people will just find a way round it.

So I have my Jehovah Witness advent calendar up ­ you just don’t open any of the doors. Plus I’ve heard all the expert spokespeople saying, “It’s the same for everyone. We’re all in the same boat.”

What they forget to mention is that boat is the f***ing Titanic!

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

3 - 9 December 2020 • www.euroweeklynews.com SPONSORED BY

AWNINGS

BUY & SELL BUY FUR Coats & Jackets, handbags, designer bags, oriental & Persian carpets, jewellery & watches. All kind of Silver, sliver plated 90/100/800. Cutlery, tin, amber, coral, coins, medals, porcelain. Radio, musical instruments. Military items until 1945, photos, medals etc. Fair price paid in CASH. Phone 688 335 497 (290436)

BLINDS SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view.

SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@solarshadetintin g.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (287972)

For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com Facebook Euro Weekly Newspaper

BUY vinyl records, record players, CD’s & Radios. 688 335 497 (290436) PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

sermons and a modern but reverent service. Why not come along to praise God and meet and make new friends, Every Sunday at 11.00am Prayer Meetings are on Wednesdays at 11.00am Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780.

Email: fojctk@gmail.com www.face book.com/FOJCTK

31

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE/WANTED

MOTORING

WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)

SOLAR ENERGY SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for Large Glazed Areas To Reflect Heat / Glare And Stop Furniture Fading And Still Keep The View. Save Heat in The Winter To Improve Your Living Environment. ian@solarshadetint ing.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176 (258409)

INSURANCE

DAMP PROFING TELECOMMUNICATIONS RISING DAMP / ROOFING REPAIRS www.electro-os .com info@electro-os.com 619 666 363 (287819)

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 902 123 309.

(200726)

DENTIST

CHARITY Fellowship of Jesus Christ the King Whether you live in, or are visiting the Nerja area, we would be delighted to welcome you to the Fellowship of Jesus Christ The King. Our meetings are characterised by uplifting songs and relevant

INSURANCE

FED UP PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR MOBILE PHONE CALLS? THEN CONTACT TELITEC TODAY. CALLS TO SPAIN 7C PER MINUTE INCLUDING MOBILES. CALLS TO UK 5.3C PER MINUTE. NO MONTHLY FEES, NO CONTRACT. WWW.TELITEC.COM TEL: 902 889 070 (2001)

WINDOW TINTING

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SPORT

32

3 - 9 December 2020

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COVID HITS WALKING FOOTBALL TWICE Lewis Hamilton Tests Positive For Covid-19

MONDAY’S session at the Polideportivo, Benalmadena Pueblo was cancelled due to Covid. At the time of writing it was not known if the Thursday session would go ahead.

It is a blow for the Benalmade­ na players who only recently were able to start using the Poli again. Then the current restric­ tions stopped the players from outside Benalmadena playing causing a drop in numbers. Now Covid strikes again.

This has left Calahonda as the only venue functioning out of five venues. Fortunately it being a pri­ vate venue while restrictions are adhered to by all who attend it is functioning as normal with Cala­ honda members making full use of the facility.

However they too have seen a drop in numbers due to the trav­ el restrictions.

Hopefully for all venues the current restrictions will be eased when they are reviewed on De­ cember 10.

Even if they are lifted or eased it will be too late for the BAHA Mini League. It almost followed

the Blue Sky Marbella Walking Football League which had to be abandoned due to the Lockdown in March/April.

The BAHA League ran out of dates to finish all matches re­ maining and looked to go the same way as the previous league.

However after several meet­ ings between League Officials and the clubs involved it was agreed to play a group tourna­ ment in Benalmadena Retamar Complex when the present re­ strictions were lifted. Retamar was unavailable for the dates chosen and again after discus­ sions it was decided that the BA­ HA Mini League would be settled by play offs which will take place at Finca Naundrup, Calahonda.

More next week...

As December looms clubs are again looking towards Sunday January 17 when the Grand Inau­ gural League Opening will take place. At present nine clubs will compete with the possibility of two late admissions.

Last week Nerja Nomads WFC were under the Spotlight as the ‘newcomers’ to the League. This

week we take the opportunity to introduce the other newcomers WFC Calahonda, managed by Scott Carmichael and sponsored

by Nigel Keable.

Calahonda were from the re­ structure of Walking Football Spain and like Nerja will be ‘Dark Horse’ Outsiders going into the League. With a mixture of young and not so young players they are under no illusion as to how they fare in the League. “We’ll win a few and lose a few,”said Manager Scott Carmichael “but I have a good experienced squad who will be capable of springing surprises.

“We will also be competing in the proposed Seniors League which will run parallel to the Main League and will offer play­ ers who might not be considered to play in their ‘First Teams’ due to age and slower mobility a reg­ ular game... watch this space.

Calahonda play at Finca Naun­ drup, and hold sessions there on Monday and Thursday mornings at 9.45am. New players welcome and Spanish is spoken. Why not come along and give it a try.

HAMILTON: Reported ‘mild symptoms’ and tested positive for Covid-19.

LEWIS HAMILTON will miss this weekend’s Sakhir Grand Prix in Bahrain after a positive test for Covid­19, it has been announced. The recently­crowned seven­time world champion is now in quarantine and has been ruled out of Sunday’s race in Bahrain.

Hamilton, who reported ‘mild symptoms’ on Monday morning, becomes the third driver to test positive for the virus this season after Ser­ gio Perez and Lance Stroll.

A Mercedes statement said: “The Mercedes­ AMG Petronas F1 Team regrets to announce that Lewis Hamilton has tested positive for Covid­19 and will be unable to take part in this

weekend’s Sakhir GP.” Mercedes say a replacement will be named in due course. “Apart from mild symptoms, he is otherwise fit and well and the entire team sends him our very best wishes for a swift re­ covery,” a statement said. Mercedes said Hamilton, 35, was tested three times last week, including on Sunday at the Bahrain Internation­ al Circuit, and returned a negative result on each occasion.

However, as well as waking with mild symp­ toms on Monday, he was also informed that a contact “prior to arrival in Bahrain” had tested positive.