Euro Weekly News - Axarquia 31 December 2020 - 6 January 2021 Issue 1852

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The people’s paper ISSUE NO. 1852

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

AXARQUIA - COSTA TROPICAL • WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

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WELL DESERVED

MALAGA­BASED FCDO em­ ployee, Michelle Stewart, is among four UK nationals in Spain named in the New Year Honours List.

Michelle Stewart, opera­ tions manager of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Develop­ ment Office’s consular contact centre, has been awarded an MBE for services to British na­ tionals overseas in the New Year Honours List, published today, Thursday December 31, 2020.

Michelle joined the FCDO in Malaga as a team leader in the consular contact centre, fol­ lowing a career in the tourism sector and a brief period work­ ing at the Euro Weekly News.

We would like to congratulate her on receiving her award.

This service answers calls from British nationals around the world, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and allows consular teams to focus on those that need the most help. Michelle manages a team of over 100 remote workers, with over 16

foreign languages to support, and helps them to offer vital assistance to British nationals overseas, who are often in very challenging situations.

Crucially, the changes Michelle has made to the man­ agement of the consular con­ tact centre have allowed more people to be helped, more quickly and to a higher stan­ dard of service.

This was particularly evident during the first wave of the Covid pandemic, where from the first calls from Wuhan up until the repatriation of British nationals, call volumes in­ creased from 2,000 per day to 10,000 per day.

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “Michelle’s calm and focused leadership and resilience has allowed her to manage a glob­ al team successfully during this unprecedented and pro­ tracted global emergency this year.

“She has led her team to provide excellent and constant assistance to British nationals

The four UK nationals named in the New Year Honours List are: • An MBE to Mr William Graves, Trustee of the Fundación Robert Graves ‘For services to British culture and literature in Spain’ • An MBE to Ms Michelle Marie Stewart, Operations Manager, Consular Contact Centre, Malaga, Spain. ‘For services to British nationals overseas’ • A British Empire Medal (BEM) to Mrs Sheila Anne Bower, Volunteer for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. ‘For services to British nationals in Spain’ • A British Empire Medal (BEM) to Mr Barry Hamilton, President and Director of Training, FAST (Medical Emergency Responders), Camposol, Mazarrón, Spain. ‘For services to British nationals in Spain’

MICHELLE STEWART: Named in the New Year Honours List. in all corners of the globe dur­ ing the most challenging time in the history of the consular contact centre, ensuring that

British nationals received the support they needed.

“Her dedication to customer service and her striving con­

‘I am not afraid’ EUGENIA, the first woman vaccinated in Malaga insists ‘I am not afraid.’

A historic moment in Malaga was made all the more special as 88­year­old Eugenia became the first person in the region to receive the Pfizer Covid ­19 vaccine and insisted that she was feeling quite calm.

At 1.45pm on Sunday, December 27, Ministry of Health vehicles delivered the first vaccines to the El Paso Care home, with 80 resi­ dents scheduled to receive the jab.

Brave Eugenia commented after receiving the vaccine: “We have to do it, we have to get vaccinated and that’s it done. I am not afraid, it depends on the reaction we have, but the truth is that it does not scare me very much, I do not think that I will react badly to what they have put me. I am calm, I am not nervous,” she said in a video distributed by the Junta de Andalucia.

Enrique, a nurse from the Malaga Health District, arrived at the care home first thing this morning to prepare residents to receive the jab.

“It is quite exciting to be able to finally administer the Covid vac­ cine after what it has meant in world health and, in particular, in ours,” said Enrique. “It is very exciting to be living this,” he added.

EUGENIA: First woman in Malaga to receive the vaccine.

stantly to improve that service, are exemplary. British nationals overseas, and the FCDO, are very fortunate to be able to count on Michelle.”

Michelle Stewart said: “I am very humbled and very hon­ oured to be awarded the MBE from her Majesty. I am thank­ ful for the opportunity to do a job I love, that is equally as challenging as it is reward­ ing.

“This achievement is not mine alone, and would not be

possible without the help of my colleagues and a team who work tirelessly to help British nationals overseas, I am grate­ ful to you all.”

BEST OF THE YEAR

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Musical tour ALMUÑECAR Band plans to inject festive cheer and fill the streets with music next week.

Under the direction of David Pino, the Municipal Music Band of Almuñecar, will do a ‘musical tour’ per­ forming in the streets and squares on Saturday, Janu­ ary 2, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

The musical repertoire will consist of popular Christmas carols combined with pa­ sodobles, according to Pino.

The Musical Walk, with

collaboration of the Depart­ ment of Culture, will begin at the School of Music, and will continue into Calle Mari­ ana Pineda, Calle Cañón, in front of the Farmacia de Avenida Andalucía, the House of Culture, the Cuesta de la Iglesia and the Plaza de la Constitución.

The band will then make their way to Avenida Eu­ ropa, Plaza Picasso, Calle Guadix, Avenida Costa del Sol and Avenida Cala.

After a break, the tour will continue to Madrid Square.

Study space TORROX has opened up a dedicated study space for students amid the pandemic.

The council has opened a Central Library Study Room for the first time, a room separate from the library space where there will be no book loans, only study use.

“This is to offer our students the maximum silence,” said a council spokesperson.

The study room can accommodate 60 people but will be restricted due to Covid protocol to 14.

It will be open from 4pm to 9pm until February with the exception of holidays and weekends.

CREDIT: Ayuntamiento de Velez-Malaga

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Thank you!

THE commitment of security and health personnel during the pandemic was recognised when Almuñecar Council visited staff and volunteers with gifts. Security Councillor, Francisco Robles Rivas, toured the Fire Station, Health Centre, Civil Protection barracks, Local Police and the Guardia Civil stations on Christmas Eve and thanked them for their continued efforts during the pandemic.

And he presented Christmas hampers as a thank you, adding: “This year has been especially difficult, and their professionalism and solidarity has been evident in the day to day, more than ever, showing that their work is necessary and fundamental.

“All the security and sanitary bodies have collaborated, since the beginning of the crisis, in supporting the most vulnerable groups,” he said while urging the public to continue exercising responsibility.

DIFFICULT TIMES: Councillor of Sports, J Hipólito Gómez.

Sporting stars VELEZ­MALAGA Sports Depart­ ment has recognised the effort and sporting achievements, both provincial and regional, achieved by young people during 2020.

“Despite the difficult times we are experiencing due to Covid­19, it is fair to recognise these suc­ cesses so that local athletes are aware of our support and never lose the dream,” said councillor of Sports, J Hipólito Gómez.

On December 15, 12 athletes from the Alevín, infantile and ju­ nior categories of the Axarquía Swimming Club were recognised, accompanied by their coach, José Antonio Díaz.

And awards will continue to be presented to 13 athletes from the categories sub12, sub16, U18

and U23 of Velez Athletics Club, and their coach, Carlos Gámez.

Gómez said although 2020 has been a very different and complicated year for the world of sports and municipal activities, “we have concentrated our ef­ forts on investments and projects to improve the quality of our fa­ cilities.”

Among the improvements has been the remodelling of the Vivar Téllez football stadium following an investment of €320,500 to cre­ ate the first in Spain with this FIFA Quality Pro system He also highlighted the long­ awaited €385,600 project at Al­ mayate football field, where the natural grass will be replaced by top­quality artificial grass.

Police manhunt

POLICE are hunting for a victim’s partner after a woman was fatal­ ly stabbed outside her home in Villarrubia de los Ojos, Ciudad Re­ al, on Sunday afternoon, December 27.

The 51­year­old died from a stab wound to the neck, the Guardia Civil has confirmed. 112 emergency service received a call just before 5.40pm, and when officers from the Guardia Civil and Local Police arrived at the scene, the victim was still alive.

But, despite the efforts of a doctor, basic life service ambulance (SVB), an emergency ambulance and a medical helicopter, she died shortly afterwards. According to sources, there were no pre­ vious complaints of violence made to the police by the victim.

NEWS

Smart destination ALMUÑECAR is to become the first Smart Tourist Destination in Granada after the town council awarded the state company SE­ GITTUR the responsibility of cre­ ating an action plan to become a DTI. The local authority is investing almost €18,000 and has set a deadline of two months.

“Almuñecar will become the first smart tourism destination in the province of Granada in 2021, and become part of the select club of tourist destinations in Spain that have this recogni­ tion,” said Deputy Mayor and Delegate of Tourism and Beach­ es, Daniel Barbero.

The Secretary of State for Tourism, through SEGITTUR, leads the Intelligent Tourist Des­ tinations project, a pioneer at an international level, whose objec­ tive “is to implement a new model to improve tourism com­ petitiveness and development.”

Barbero added: “This initia­ tive generates the appropriate mechanisms to facilitate the rapid incorporation of innova­ tions in destinations.”

An Intelligent Tourist Destina­ tion (DTI) “is an innovative tourist destination, consolidat­ ed on a cutting­edge technologi­ cal infrastructure, which guaran­ tees the sustainable development of the tourist ter­ ritory, accessible to all, and facil­ itates the interaction and inte­ gration of the visitor with the environment.”

It is designed to increase the quality of visitors’ experience in the destination and improves the quality of life of the resi­ dents.

Major Tourist Area NERJA Town Hall, by means of a Mayoral De­ cree, requests the renewal of the declaration of Major Tourist Area for the purposes of business hours.

The request has been made to the Regional Ministry of Economic Transformation, Industry, Knowledge and Universities of the Andalucian Regional Government in the hopes to renew the declaration of Nerja as a Major Tourist In­ flux Area for the purposes of business hours.

The request was explained by the councillor for Commerce, Javier López, highlighting that as a novelty this year the Regional Government has introduced the indefinite nature of the dec­ laration, so that once it is granted it will not

have to be renewed every four years.

Lopez said that the application provides for freedom of business hours in the periods of Easter, from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday (both included) and the summer season, from June 1 to September 30 (both included), ex­ tending to the entire municipality.

The councillor also underlined the impor­ tance of this renovation, “considering the large number of visitors that Nerja receives through­ out these holiday periods, which allows our traders to have greater commercial time free­ dom, favouring consumption, the development of the local economy and the creation of em­ ployment in our municipality.”

NEWS

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NIBS EXTRA Home grown MADE in Malaga - a showcase for the region’s talents - is collaborating with the Malagueño Collective of Writers to promote their talents and offer an exclusive space to exhibit their work, as well as actively participate in campaigns, events, and community initiatives.

Mass screen FORTY-FIVE per cent of those selected randomly to take part in mass screening in Algarrobo organised by the Ministry of Health and Family of the Junta de Andalucía failed to turn up.

And of the 263 people tested, two were positive for Covid in the town with one of the highest incidences in the province.

I Am Forever RINCON DE LA VICTORIA has launched its ‘I Am Forever’ campaign promoting responsible animal ownership reiterating that a pet is not just for Christmas and that ‘if we buy a pet at this time of year, it must be remembered they are part of the family’ reminding animal abandonment is a crime.

Police chase THREE Guardia Civil officers were injured in Velez-Malaga after being rammed by a van stolen from Motril following a police chase on the A-7 towards Algarrobo. One of them had to be airlifted to hospital with ‘serious injuries’ at around 11.45am on Tuesday, December 29, and the driver has been arrested.

Virtual aid SMART screens will be distributed to the elderly in Algarrobo to help combat loneliness. Around 30 people will initially be given ‘a virtual assistant’ to stay connected with their community, with their loved ones, to do physical exercise or participate in memory games, among other functions, said the Diputacion de Malaga.

Torrox toys TOYS have been presented to Torrox Council collected by the Royal Spanish Handball Federation and Torrox Beach Handballs teams to distribute to the most needy children in the town. In June, the town will host the European Beach final Handball Tour in which 15 nationalities will take part.

2020 was definitely the unplanned year for us all.

It has been a difficult year with illness loss uncertainty and isolation due to Covid19.

However it has been the year where communities have come together like never before - people have reached out to help others less fortunate as we have all learned to live in the moment or the NOW as it has been called.

We have all learned that it is the little things that are actually the BIG things that matter - our health - a roof over our head food in our stomach.

We have in the main all learned to appreciate everyone and everything as that is what makes up our landscape of life.

So as 2020 comes to a close we, Michel, Steven and all of the EWN family, now spread out throughout all of Europe, wish you our valued client and dearest loyal reader a virus free 2021 and hope that you can Enjoy 12 months of success 52 weeks of memory making occasions 365 days of joy 8,760 hours of abundance 525,600 minutes of good luck 31,536,000 seconds of happiness HAPPY NEW YEAR and may 2021 give wings to your dreams, Renewed energy and confidence and an end to these very troubling times.

Thank you ALL for your continued support and YOU are the reason we carry on into our third decade ...

Cheers to each and every one of you and a special THANK YOU to our EWN family for ensuring the six papers were out every single week - not an easy feat for anyone.

God Bless.

Christmas dream VELEZ­MALAGA is determined to keep the Christmas dream alive and has organised a static and safe way to enjoy the Three Kings.

Families can make their way to the town’s fairground site on January 3 to give their letters to the ‘Royal Postman’ and have the chance to see the Three Kings on January 5, without getting out of their cars in line with Covid measures. Mayor Antonio Moreno Ferrer, said: “In this different Christmas it is very important to keep alive the illusion of the smallest peo­ ple in the house, but without neglecting for a moment the health and safety of all citizens.”

Twenty­eight floats will do a circuit from the fairground, and families can follow in their cars.

Councillor for Fairs and Festivals, Lola Gamez, added: “This government team, which has firmly bet on local commerce this Christmas, presents an alternative to the Three Kings’ Pa­ rade as we knew it until now, since we have avoided any cel­ ebration that would bring together the public.

“Thus, and in view of the success of the drive­in cinema that we did in summer, we wanted to transform the parade into a static circuit where families can ride in their car through the different floats.”

The tour will take place from 12 noon.

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Disney joy

May the road rise to meet you, May the wind Be ever at your back, May the sun shine warm Upon your face And the rains fall soft upon your fields And until we can all meet together again May God hold you in the palm Of his hand Irish blessing

Help where it’s needed 41CLUB NERJA, the club for ex­Round Table members, has donated €500 from its charity account to Nerja Solidaria de Alimentos, the lo­ cal food bank.

The bank is staffed entirely by volunteers and is part of a network which buys basic foods and personal hygiene products wholesale and then distributes them to families identified as being in special need.

Nerja Solidaria President, Miguel Benitez, said: “Nerja relies on tourism so this year has been devastating, and some families found themselves without a single breadwinner.”

Benitez presented a ‘Certificate of Thanks’ to Brian Karet, a volun­ teer and secretary of 41 Club.

Dr Karet said: “In the short time I have been working here the numbers of families needing help has more than tripled, and the situ­ ation may not improve for a long time.”

Donations, however small, are welcome and can be made to the town hall, or via 41 Club. To find out more about 41 Club, contact chairman Peter on 678 059 288

YOUNG patients admit­ ted to Hospital de la Axarquia were treated to a Christmas Day pre­ miere of Disney and Pixar film ‘Soul’ from their hos­ pital beds.

The pioneering initia­ tive promoted by the Italfarmaco Group and the Walt Disney Compa­ ny saw around 1,000 chil­ dren in 60 hospitals in Andalucia and across Spain and Portugal get to watch the new Disney all­star cast offering on hospital wards.

Miguel Moreno of the Health Area Manage­ ment, said “it is a tremendous joy to be able to see how the little ones enjoy a premiere movie in their room, making their stay with us more bearable.”

On behalf of the health service, he also sent festive greetings and urged people to “enjoy the festivities with cau­ tion and in compliance with the standards so necessary during the pandemic situation.”

Blow dealt

POLICE have dealt a blow to large­scale drug trafficking in Axarquia.

The Guardia Civil have arrested eight people and seized 1,535 kilos of hashish on the coast of Nerja.

The drugs were loaded onto a semi­rigid boat ready to be trans­ ported to Maro when police intercepted in a joint operation with OCON­SUR officers after being detected through SIVE (Integrated Surveil­ lance System in the Strait). When the boat was searched it was dis­ covered to have a dou­ ble bottom in which the 24 bales of drugs were stashed.

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Dream come true A CHEF with Down Syn­ drome from Torre del Mar was left stunned after he got the opportunity of a lifetime.

The young man was the main star on a new television pro­ gramme created by the con­ troversial Spanish chef, DETERMINED: Alejandro Chicote. accomplished his goal to The new programme, cook for Dani Garcia. called Auténticos (the au­ thentic), sees Chicote help people with disabilities to ful­ fil their dreams. Alejandro Giménez from La Axarquia enjoyed the attention as he took on the leading role of the night.

Viewers were also sur­ prised to see the sentimental side of the usually heated Chicote, who stars in the Spanish adaptation of Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares. Alejandro has always dreamed of becoming a renowned cook.

The 23­year­old never let his disability hold him back and even moved to Jerez de la Frontera to train as a cook. He made the move on his own, determined to learn from the best at a haute cuisine school.

In the programme, Chicote decided to surprise Alejandro by taking him home to Torre del Mar, where he was reunited with his family and girlfriend Cristina. While back in his hometown, Alejandro confessed that his dream was to work with the famous chef from Malaga, Dani García. After receiving a pastry master class in Barcelona, Alejandro was able to cook for Dani Garcia.

Impressed by the young chef, García made Alejandro’s dreams come true and rewarded him with a full scholarship to receive training in Dani’s Atelier.

2020

BEST OF THE YEAR

BBC interview EWN 2020 IN view of Brexit having fi­ nally come into action, last Friday January 31, BBC News Europe reporter Gavin Lee spoke to Euro Weekly News’ very own Michel Euesden.

Euro Weekly News is the leading free British newspa­ per published in Spain, and has SIX regional editions and a circulation of over 580,600 copies every month.

Michel Euesden is the CEO and founder of Euro Weekly News, and works hand­in­hand with her hus­ band Steven Euesden who is joint publisher and sales director.

Gavin met up with Michel in Mijas Pueblo and said that the general feeling he got from the local British, as quoted by a local bar owner, was that “Nothing is differ­

BBC NEWS INTERVIEW: Gavin Lee spoke with Michel Euesden of the Euro Weekly News in Mijas Pueblo. ent, but everything has changed.”

Michel agreed that she had a similar feeling, as we are yet to see what Brexit re­ ally holds for us. Euro Week­ ly readers are mostly ‘re­ mainers.’ People who are proud to be British, but hap­ pen to have chosen to reside in a different country.

For now, the British in Spain have been told that they can continue as they have been, but by December 31 they will need to make sure that all their paperwork

EWN OWNERS: Michel and Steven Euesden. including residency must be in order should they want to live and work here.

Despite Brexit not having been everyone’s first choice, many are happy to now at

least be out of ‘limbo,’ after three years of uncertainty.

Gavin stated that having spoken to local estate agents, there appears to have been a recent decline in British buyers. This is most likely due to people not knowing what the future would hold.

Euro Weekly News has al­ so spoken to other channels, and one of them will be do­ ing a post­Brexit documen­ tary which will follow the Euesdens, as well as some of their clients along the coasts of Spain. This documentary will be all about ‘Life as an Expat after Brexit.’

They will be following up to see what changes have been made or felt one, six and 12 months after the ini­ tial Brexit date of January 31, 2020.

Only time will tell what Brexit truly holds for the British, but as Michel said, Boris stated that this would be “The best for Britain.”

Only she would have rather he had said that this change will be “The best for the British people.”

BEST OF THE YEAR

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A NEIGHBOUR shows gratitude to the officers of the Local Police of Almuñecar that saved his life.

The Headquarters of the Local Police of Al­ muñecar experienced ‘an unexpected yet very emotional act’ because the neighbour who was saved from drowning, after choking, Fall, wanted to personally thank the officers who helped him, delivering a plaque to each one in which he liter­ ally says: “I can only thank you, my guardian an­ gel, for saving my life when I was hanging by a thread and giving me a new opportunity to be with my family.”

Thank you. Fall.

“It was a pleasant gesture that we appre­ ciate because what we did with this neighbour was what we would have done with any individual requesting help. The way in which he chose to recognise the situation and show gratitude was very emotional because it was unexpected” said one of the officers.

A woman called for help to a Local Police pa­ trol of Almuñecar who was in the area of Calle Guadix carrying out preventive measures due to a traffic accident.

The officers, with the identification number 14742 and 8538, headed towards the address in­ dicated by the woman requesting help. Upon ar­

2020

Credit : AYTO ALMUNECAR

Guardian Angel Music for Hope LOCAL POLICE ACTED: The man surprises police by showing gratitude through an emotional gesture. rival, officer 14742 observed a man, in his 40’s, ly­ ing on the ground unconscious. He proceeded to perform the ‘Heimlich manouevre.’

“After several minutes without expelling what caused the choking, the other officer decided to use the portable defibrillator from the vehicle due to the risk of entering a cardiac arrest,” said a spokesman for the Local Police of Almuñecar.

For about seven or eight minutes that it took medical services to arrive “officer 14742 did not stop the manouevre, and with their help, the man expelled what caused him to choke and be­ gan to breathe normally.”

He was then transferred to Almuñecar Health Centre for further checks.

FROM the doors of the Duo­ mo Cathedral in Milan, Ital­ ian opera singer, Andrea Bo­ celli preformed a beautiful, yet audience­free concert, ti­ tled Bocelli: Music for Hope, which was live­streamed for viewers quarantined at home.

The Italian tenor was ac­ companied by cathedral or­ ganist, Emanuele Vianelli and preformed pieces such as Ave Maria and Sancta Maria.

The mayor of Milan, Guiseppe Sala, lamented that “This year, Easter will be very different for all of us.

“The joyous serenity that usually comes with this day, has been greatly troubled by the pandemic we are ex­ periencing. I am sure that the extraordinary voice of Bocelli will be the embrace we are missing these days, a strong, special hug, capa­ ble of warming the heart of Milan, Italy and the world.”

ANDREA BOCELLI: Performed a free concert.

2020

Regardless of faith, Bocel­ li hopes Sunday will have brought together “millions of clasped hands every­ where in the world.”

To view the recording of Bocelli simply visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch? v=huTUOek4LgU.

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BEST OF THE YEAR

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MARIE GARDNER, who lives in Viñuela, is raising cash for Velez­Malaga hospital with handmade face masks.

When the Covid­19 State of Alarm and lockdown arrived in March, face masks were in worryingly short supply and Marie decided to make her own, using odds and ends of fabric that she had at home.

After her friend Linda Edwards put a pho­ to of Marie’s masks on her Facebook page, other people asked her to make more but instead of selling them, she asks for a donation to Velez­ Malaga hospital.

Having come through a cancer operation in Velez­ Malaga hospital two years ago, she will always be grate­ ful for the wonderful care she received there, Marie told the EWN. Initially she expected to raise €100, but after reaching almost €700 she has now set her sights on €1,000.

The double­layer cotton masks are wash­ able and re­usable. Wearing glasses herself, Marie knows that masks steam up and adds

Distribution of face masks

Marie Gardner gives Keep buying locally something back

LOCKDOWN MASK-MAKER: Marie with husband Den. a wire nose­bar so that the fabric can be pinched round the nose.

Whatever direction the govern­ ment’s de­escalation takes, we shall be wearing them for some time to come. And with masks as pretty and practical as hers, who’s grumbling?

Readers wanting to know more about Marie’s mask can find out more on Face­ book, searching for Marie Gardner.

2020

COUNCIL GIFT: The distribution of face masks.

TORROX Council is working hard to try to assist local businesses to recover lost in­ come as quickly as possible following the upcoming end of the State of Alarm.

At all times following the proper health guidelines, it has allowed the reopening of street markets, and is reintro­ ducing the blue parking zones

2020

where drivers have to pay, in order to help circulate traffic in commercial areas.

Its most recent act is to gift 1,000 face masks to local shop keepers and stall holders, con­ tinuing to encourage residents to buy locally and is distributing window stickers to those stores which meet the Covid­19 health protection measures.

Community Heroes Josefina Navarro, Axarquia UPON speaking with Josefina, or Fina as her friends call her, I immediately realised why so many people had been in touch singing her praises.

She is a warm, caring woman who goes out of her way to make sure everybody else is ok.

She has been a volunteer with the Red Cross in Granada for some time and is very aware of the number of people in need in the area. “There are so many people here who live alone, we help them write letters and try to cheer them up. I also have work­ shops which help them manage health and emotions,” she said.

Many people pointed out how Fina has helped them with setting up in Spain whether it is to do with paperwork or find­ ing a home. Which is a little ironic as Fina herself is a political refugee from Venezuela currently trying to gain her own citizenship.

When we spoke, Fina was making plans to take a member of the community to the hospital the next day, a man who had to have his foot amputated and she had self­ lessly been taking him food deliveries and checking up on him. She also has a What­ sApp group that allows her to keep in touch with the residents and greets them cheer­ fully to lift their spirits.

2020 It seems she has always been very caring.

“In Venezuela when the doctors came from America to treat the children I would be the interpreter between them and the chil­ dren’s families to make sure they were get­ ting the correct information.”

When the crisis is over Fina will continue helping with the Red Cross and has pro­ grammes planned with them. “Afterwards it will be tough but we can all get through it by helping each other.”

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BEST OF THE YEAR

Tom Moore Knighted New lease of life

BRITAIN’S favourite fundraising hero got a dream come true when the Queen knighted him during a private cere­ mony at Windsor Castle on Friday July 17.

The ex­serviceman who is a Second World War veteran earned himself the highest honour by raising around £33 million in aid of the NHS as it struggled to cope with the constant battering of the Covid pandemic.

Sir Tom challenged himself to walk 100 lengths of his Bedford­ shire garden before his special 100th birthday this year, an achievement leading to the PM

2020 SIR TOM: The 100-year-old raised millions for the NHS.

Boris Johnson minister nominat­ ing him for the award.

Guests at the ceremony in­ cluded Sir Tom’s daughter, Hannah Ingram­Moore, son­in­ law Colin Ingram, grandson Benjie and granddaughter Georgia watching.

Her Majesty, 94, has been living in Windsor during the pandemic for her own safety, but bravely chose to carry out the official engagement in per­ son.

She thanked Sir Tom person­ ally, saying: “Thank you so much, an amazing amount of money you raised.” Leading up to the event, Sir Tom posted a tweet saying that he was “raring to go,” for a “very special day” and thanked supporters for their well wishes.

“To actually see the Queen in person ­ this is a step in the right direction, a step hopefully back to new normality, but it will be a very slow step,” Sir Tom added.

OLD RAILWAY STATION: Costa del Sol’s latest hotel project.

THE old railway station in Malaga is to be transformed and given a new lease of life.

The locomotive station, after being abandoned for decades, will become a hotel in Malaga.

Adif Alta Velocidad, the rail­ way infrastructure manager, auctioned off the project for this space, specifically for the con­ struction and operation of a ho­ tel. The starting price is €9.8 mil­ lion with a lease of 30 years.

As reported by Sur, the station has a square footage of approxi­ mately 3,000 metres. It will also become the second biggest tourist accommodation for the

2020 Maria Zambrano station, where the Barcelo Hotel Group also manages a hotel establishment.

Adif will award the project to the highest bidder and after an optimal technical evaluation, in

terms of the technical proposal, implementation, which must add up to a minimum of 60 points. The deadline for submit­ ting offers will end on October 31.

According to the appraisal car­ ried out by the Ministry of Trans­ port, the preparation of the pro­ ject and the obtaining of the work permits will be at least a two­year period. Construction of the hotel will take another two years.

Once the works have been completed, they will begin to count down for the 30 years op­ eration lease.

BEST OF THE YEAR DID you realise during the Covid­19 lockdown that you don’t need so much ‘stuff’?

If so, there is a fantastic pro­ ject on the Costa Blanca that could make an incredible differ­ ence with your cast­offs. The ob­ jective of Project Costa, a non­ religious and non­profit organisation, is to dress and feed the less fortunate on the Costa Blanca, as well as offering a rehabilitation programme for up to three people at a time in a half way home they are refur­ bishing in Benitachell.

The team want to get alco­ holics and drug addicts off the streets and back into society.

Baby steps is the name of the game, founder Arne Soeten told Euro Weekly News, acknowledg­ ing that while they ­ Arne, Mat­

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31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

Project Costa - reaching out to those less fortunate ty, Steve, Inge and Caroline ­ have a dream to help those in need, it will take time and sup­ port.

“We are renting the property in Benitachell and are currently cleaning and painting it to make it a halfway home and a soup kitchen.

“We are starting from scratch, pumping a lot of our own mon­ ey and time into this project,” said Arne, who together with Matty, has experience of living on the streets and wants to give something back to the commu­ nity.

“We want to start by feeding

2020 the homeless, giving out clothes and sleeping bags. As we get to know them, we will be able to see who wants a second chance at life and we will help them get back into society.

“If we can help one person

achieve that, then the project is a success for me.”

Matty added: “We have both been in that situation. We are not the only ones out there who want to change their lives. They need someone to reach out a hand.”

The initial goal is to start handing out food and clothing twice a week. The next goal is to select three suitable candidates to work on their life situation to­ day.

“We want to offer a free 90 days rehabilitation programme.

Our goal is to guide the under­ privileged within this time back

to society,” said Arne.

To get the ball rolling, Arne and the team parked their beloved yellow Project ‘Tweety’ van at Javea Port on Sunday morning to take donations.

“It was amazing,” Arne told EWN. “Around 30 people came with clean clothes and new un­ derwear and we also had dona­ tion. It was a great success, thank you to everyone.”

Project Costa also need to kit out a professional soup kitchen including kitchen tools, chopping boards, catering pots and pans and a large horizontal freezer.

You can find Costa­Project in Calle de la Mar, 31, Benitachell, Tel 00 34 643 737 584, email: ar nesoeten@yahoo.com, Face­ book, Instagram and at: Pro­ ject­costa.org.

Queens Honours TOURISM Safety Campaigner Georgia Hague and volunteer Ian Warren are among three UK nationals in Spain named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Georgia Hague, who campaigns to promote safer youth tourism, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the British community in the Balearic Islands and Ian Warren, who has brought the Red Arrows to Menorca four times, has been awarded a British Empire medal (BEM) for services to the British Community in Menorca, in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, published on Friday October 9, 2020.

Following a tragic fall which killed one of her friends, Georgia instigated a safety awareness campaign aimed at young British tourists visiting the Balearics.

Alongside this, Georgia worked closely with the British Embassy in Madrid and Consulate in Palma to become a key spokesperson for the FCO’s ‘Stick with your Mates’ campaign, sharing her personal experience in a video that reached almost a million people on Facebook.

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “It is wonderful to see someone as young as Georgia being recognised for the work they do in the community. Channelling her personal grief into helping to save the lives of others, she has managed to reach millions of young people through social media communicating a message of per-

sonal safety in a way that was both compelling and relatable.

Her work has made a real difference.”

Georgia Hague said: “I am extremely grateful and humbled to have been recognised for my efforts in Mallorca. If the campaign helped to save just one life, then that means the world to me.

Thank you for the positive recognition, I am grateful beyond words!”

Ian moved to Menorca in 1988 to set up a car hire business with his family. For the last 10 years he has put his retirement to one side to focus on bringing the Red Arrows to Menorca; building relationships with the local military and aviation community, ensuring that whenever The Red Arrows visit the event forms part of the life of the whole island. In addition, he has put his fundraising and project management skills to use in support of the work of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal and annual Poppy Service in the Anglican Church in Menorca.

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “Ian is truly a force of nature.

Leading the effort to bring the Red Arrows to Menorca, he has created a platform to strengthen bilateral relationships between the UK and Spain and promote the historic links between the UK and Menorca. Ian never seeks publicity for himself, but is everpresent in the life of the British community on the island, selflessly devoting his free time for

the benefit of others.”

Ian Warren said: “I am very humbled and most honoured to be awarded the British Empire Medal from her Majesty. My jour-

ney has taken me in many directions, none of which would have been achieved without the help of many friends. My grateful thanks to you all.”

2020

EWN

9

10 EWN

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31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

FEATURE

GO LOCAL

THE EURO WEEKLY NEWS is urging its readers to support local businesses in the com­ munity by going local through the lockdown and for your Christmas shopping this year, instead of feeding online gi­ ants and superstores.

This lockdown and festive period we challenge you to re­ discover your local high streets, markets, butchers, greengrocers and all of the wonderfully quirky indepen­ dent businesses in your area.

Due to the Covid­19 pan­ demic, you may have to sup­ port many local businesses by ordering online and making use of any click and collect ser­ vices they can operate if you are unable to get out due to health reasons or lockdown re­ strictions.

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

Although it may be a euro or two cheaper elsewhere or on­ line, 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 Christ­ mas to give back to your com­ munity by making a small ges­ ture and shopping in this way.

Many local stores support local charities, support and sponsor local sports teams and in many cases the small inde­ pendent stores are actually much more than just a small high street shop, they’re a family’s legacy, often passed down through numerous gen­

erations and support not just the current owner, but the generation before.

For those stores which are new, that extra couple of eu­ ros spent there are supporting someone’s dream and ambi­ tion, 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 independent store and compete with the multi­ national and chains.

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

You could also consider pur­ chasing

gift vouchers from local busi­ nesses to help them over the coming weeks, thinking out­ side 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 some­ one looking to change their ca­

reer path.

As people are struggling with finances thinking about what friends and family may actually need is important too.

Whilst it’s nice to give a glam­ ourous gift perhaps pre­paying a family member’s phone bill for the month would actually be a better gift. Helping people

FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

EWN 11

BUY LOCAL: By shopping locally, independent businesses can help support the local community.

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

Choosing to spend your money locally will really make a difference in the recovery of the local economy. When we buy local, our money stays lo­ cal, and it strengthens the local economy in two ways. First, buying local keeps money cir­ culating within the local econ­ omy. Studies have shown that local businesses recirculate a greater share of every euro as they create locally owned sup­ ply chains and invest in their

employees.

Data shows that local retail­ ers return 52 per cent of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14 per cent for national chain re­ tailers.

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 restaurant, which in turn pre­ pares the fresh produce and sells it to local customers. The

farmer pays its local employ­ ees and the restaurant uses revenue from sales to buy sup­ plies from a neighbourhood hardware store. This example illustrates how the recircula­ tion of money in the local economy leads to a stronger fi­ nancial foundation for our neighbours and communities.

Buying local also fuels new employment and job opportu­ nities for people within our community. Studies show, lo­ cally owned businesses em­ ploy more people per unit of sales and retain more employ­

ees over time.

While buying local is finan­ cially compelling to our com­ munities; the benefits to our environment are equally im­ pressive. Buying locally re­ duces the processing of goods, packaging and transportation waste, which leads to less pol­ lution.

There’s a massive cultural shift underway redefining the way people make buying deci­ sions. We’re seeing more indi­ viduals concerned about the environment, about how prod­ ucts are made and sourced,

where materials come from, and a company’s overall social and environmental impact.

Many businesses are joining our Go Local campaign by of­ fering 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.

12 EWN

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31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

Children’s Day 2020

VELEZ­MALAGA marks Univer­ sal Children’s Day (November 20) by awarding schools and educational centres which took part in a Unicef initiative ‘Greet­ ings Without Contact.’

Due to the Covid­19 pandem­ ic, the traditional Local Chil­

dren’s Plenary has not been held and instead the contactless greetings activity was carried out.

Students were asked to ex­ plore different alternatives of greetings in times of a health cri­ sis, “with the aim of maintaining and strengthening social rela­ tions at school while respecting the necessary prevention rules.”

Councillor for Social Rights

and Equality, Víctor González, gave each participating educa­ tional centre €100 to be used for educational or school material.

He said: “The initiative high­ lights the relevance of being aware of the need and impor­ tance of recognising the voices, ideas and opinions of our chil­ dren, of considering and making their contributions visible, of providing free­contamination meeting spaces and games and of making them see their high capacity to participate in social and cultural events.”

Man finds €3,000 worth of lottery tickets A MAN, 27, in Malaga found €3,000 worth of lottery tickets near his home and returned them to the lottery seller.

According to a report in national Spanish daily ABC, he saw a folder on a car when he looked out of his third-floor window. He went down to see what it was and found at least 95 lottery tickets for El Gordo Christmas lottery. He picked it up, left a note on the car and called the police, who arrived on the scene, and he gave them the tickets and went off to work. He hadn’t got far when his phone rang, it was the lottery seller who had been given the tickets by the police and wanted to thank them. The seller gave the man and the officers some Euromillions tickets to thank them. The upstanding citizen also asked the seller to come by his work place so he could buy a ticket from him, hoping that some luck would come from his good deed.

2020

BEST OF THE YEAR

Migas Day TRADITIONAL Migas Day went ahead in Torrox in spite of the pandemic.

Determined to stage the festival, which is in its 39th year and has been declared of National Tourist Interest in An­ dalucia, the council this year paid tribute to the typical Malagan dish virtually.

“The Migas de Torrox day usually attracts thousands on the Sunday before Christmas Day and we could not let this date pass without giving it the importance it deserves,” said mayor Óscar Medina.

So this year the event, ac­ companied by music from lo­ cal folk groups was televised and streamed through social networks.

And during the broadcast, followers were invited to pre­ pare the recipe from home.

Women from the La Almed­ ina Association were in charge, as every year, of preparing the arriera salad that Torrox recommends as the ideal garnish for the migas,

MIGAS: A traditional dish for field workers.

2020 along with a glass of sweet lo­ cal wine.

Migas is made from oil, gar­ lic, water, semolina flour and salt, historically a traditional dish for field workers.

EUROPEAN PRESS

www.euroweeklynews.com

EUROPEAN NIBS DENMARK

GERMANY

FIFA record

Mini bus

THE gaming world has become a moneymaking profession. One of the world’s top stars, Danish 14-year-old Anders Vejrgang has set a record by winning 300 FIFA games in a row, but can’t turn professional for another two years.

IN an unusual act of co-operation, an Uber type company, ViaVan is working with the local bus company in the town of Gütersloh to offer a service to passengers which complements existing routes on Sundays and other times of restricted service.

NETHERLANDS

FRANCE

Pizza Xmas

No access

RELATIVE newcomer to Holland’s fast-food industry, pizza chain Papa John is teaming up with the Dutch Red Cross to raise money for its food bank. For every €1 donated by customers, it will add another €1 for the charity.

THE French government is considering introducing a new law which will ban access to public transport to anyone who fails to obtain a Covid-19 vaccination, as a poll has suggested that up to 55 per cent of the population will refuse the vaccine.

BELGIUM

NORWAY

Slaughterhouse rules

Imprisoned

THE European Court of Justice has upheld a decision made by the Belgian government to ban the slaughter of animals without prior stunning, which effectively means that meat produced for Halal and Kosher consumption will be affected.

FORMER champion skier Petter Northug appeared in court charged with dangerous driving and has been sentenced to seven months imprisonment and banned from driving for life after posting videos of his erratic driving.

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

EWN 13

FINANCE Lifeline STRUGGLING multinational Spanish company Abengoa which is facing disputes amongst shareholders has been offered a €20 million lifeline by Santander after its request for financial assistance from the Junta de Andalucia was turned down.

Third Country status REGARDLESS of the Brexit deal, the British government has told the farming industry that the EU will grant Britain ‘Third Country’ status which will allow almost all plant and animal exports from the UK to EU member states.

Merry Christmas DUE to a computer error, energy supplier E.on took money from direct debit customers on Christmas Eve, in some cases two weeks early and said that refunds would be made on December 29 due to bank holidays and the weekend.

Building reserves INTENT on building cash reserves, Spanish group ACS, through its Australian subsidiary has sold its 50 per cent stake in mining company Thiess for a reported sum of €1.150 billion after ACS earlier reported that it had also sold its Portuguese toll road business.

Carry on working IN a bid to postpone a further drain on the Spanish economy during this time of pandemic, José Luis Escrivá, the Minister for Inclusion and Social Security is encouraging those who are about to reach pensionable age to continue working.

By way of a bonus for those who decide to do this, he is offering a 4 per cent increase in the pension to be paid for each year of additional work that is undertaken, provided that those involved have contributed fully to social services during their ca-

STAT OF WEEK

www.euroweeklynews.com • 31 December 2020 - 6 January 2021

€25 billion

of the money granted to Spain from the European Recovery Fund will be spent on Green energy, Transport, Digital upgrading and Health.

Cheaper rents

1,300 jobs saved in Wales MARSTON’S BREWERY has exchanged contracts with Brains Brewery to operate its portfolio of 156 pubs in Wales, on a combination of leased and management contract arrangements.

Established in Cardiff in 1882, Brains is an iconic family business, synony­ mous with pubs and brew­ ing in Wales with which Marston’s has had a long­ standing relationship.

Brains owns a portfolio of 156 pubs, principally lo­

cated in South and West Wales, as well as the her­ itage beer brand of Wales of the same name.

The pub business cur­ rently employs around 1,300 people all of whom will transfer to work for Marston’s.

The earlier lockdown and the latest decision to ensure that pubs close by 6pm in Wales meant that Brains had to close its en­ tire pub network on De­ cember 4 and look for

LEGALLY SPEAKING Can he find the other owners?

In a recent question you remarked that the name of the president would appear on the property register if he was an owner in the community. I am trying to create some democracy in our urbanisation, but the administrator controls ac­ cess to the foreign addresses of the owners. They are from Belgium and Holland and Madrid. How can I write to them directly? Will the property register contain details of home addresses and is there some easy way to access it?

D R (Costa Blanca) First, Spain’s data protec­ tion law prohibits YOU AND THE LAW the administrator IN SPAIN from revealing per­ sonal details of the owners. This includes their foreign ad­ dresses and their e­mails. To obtain a Nota Simple from the property register you need to present some justifica­ tion for it such as a declaration that you intend to buy the property. A lawyer can do this by e­mail. However, the property register only gives the name of the registered owner.

Your only recourse is to catch the owners in person when they visit their properties. The problem with democ­ racy is the amount of effort involved to make it work.

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.

FORMER Labour Party leader and now Shadow Business Secretary Ed Miliband has called for the UK government to stand up for busi­ nesses.

He wants to see a commitment that those hit by unexpected Tier 4 restrictions have access to the economic support they need to survive through a Hospitality and High Street Fightback Fund.

ways to continue to exist.

In a gesture of goodwill to those in need, it com­ mitted to donating all food stock held in its freezers to help feed the vulnerable over the festive period and into the New Year through FareShare Cymru after having made a similar charitable gesture back in March, when they donat­ ed well over £100,000 (€110,000) worth of stock to local charities and key workers.

The pubs when re­ opened will still be run un­ der the Brains brand and will continue to sell its beer, which is brewed at its recently opened facility in Cardiff Bay. John Rhys, chairman of Brains, said “this transac­ tion enables Brains to re­ capitalise its balance sheet and continue its long her­ itage as an independent entity, preserving this great Welsh business for generations to come.”

Spanish tax dates Credit: Alberto Alvarez-Perea flickr

BUSINESS EXTRA

14

Google tax due in April 2021.

WITH the so­called Google Tax due to be introduced in Spain in April of 2021 de­ spite threats of further tar­ iff increases of Spanish goods into the USA, some social media companies are already settling previous year’s debts so that they don’t get penalised with higher future taxes.

The most recent example is Facebook Spain which following a formal inspec­ tion of its books by the Spanish Tax Agency has agreed to pay €34.4 million back tax to cover 2013 ­ 2018 but this is a tiny amount when compared to 2019 turnover in Spain of more than €260 million.

With a new US President

due to takeover from Don­ ald Trump in January, it seems less likely that America will use tariff in­ creases to protect its major social media companies so having seen the ‘writing on the wall’ the Facebook Eu­ ropean head office based in Ireland is making sure that taxes are up to date.

In the long run, when coupled with the Tobin Tax which charges 0.2 per cent tax on all share transac­ tions on companies worth more than €1 billion which takes effect in January, the Spanish government ex­ pects to earn around €960 million (down from its orig­ inal estimate of €1.2 bil­ lion).

High Street Fightback Fund Almost 175,000 businesses in Tier 4 areas across London, the South East and the East of Eng­ land have been rocked by last­ minute instructions to close, in­ cluding more than 13,000 hairdressers,8,600 gyms and more than 45,000 retail busi­

nesses that will have stocked up or taken bookings for the crucial Christmas trading period.

Currently the vast majority of businesses are only able to ac­ cess an emergency cash grant worth around half or a third of the support on offer during the

SPANISH Minister of Fi­ nance, Maria Jesus Montero has announced that rents of properties used in the hospi­ tality sector must in certain circumstances be cut by 50 per cent until the national State of Alarm is ended.

Landlords with more than 10 properties in town cen­ tres who have not already offered a temporary dis­ count will be affected in or­ der to try to help the strug­ gling hospitality industry which has already seen nu­ merous closures.

Bar and restaurant owners will receive tax credits against rent and will be able to hold back certain pay­ ments whilst landlords will receive tax incentives when they lower rents.

Modern technology AS the hospitality industry in Spain crumbles with more than 100,000 bars and restaurants across the coun­ try potentially likely to close, there are some who are turning to digital companies to help save their business­ es.

There are a number of niche start­ups which are of­ fering specialist services to bars and restaurants to ei­ ther help them promote themselves on social media, become part of an online community or even join a search App. A perfect example is Fut­ bar which directs those who want to find the nearest member bar screening live football. national lockdown in March.

Labour has called for the £2 billion (€2.2 billion) recently re­ turned to the Treasury by super­ markets in unneeded business rates relief to be urgently rede­ ployed into a Hospitality and High Streets Fightback Fund to help struggling businesses on the high street and those excluded from support.

16 EWN

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31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

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C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) COMPANY 3I Group 1.157,00 1.171,00 Admiral Group 2.923,0 2.968,0 Anglo American 2.435,0 2.473,0 Antofagasta 1.440,00 1.448,00 Ashtead Group 3.433,0 3.461,0 Associated British Foods 2.296,0 2.306,0 AstraZeneca 7.223,0 7.325,0 Auto Trader Group Plc 583,60 592,80 Avast 532,50 532,50 Aveva 3.185,0 3.234,0 Aviva 328,00 333,80 B&M European Value Retail SA514,80 517,40 BAE Systems 504,00 507,80 Barclays 154,60 158,14 Barratt Developments 688,00 699,20 Berkeley 4.716,0 4.843,0 BHP Group 1.964,40 1.975,00 BP 263,00 266,95 British American Tobacco 2.730,0 2.748,0 British Land Company 504,00 505,40 BT Group 138,35 140,20 Bunzl 2.408,0 2.435,0 Burberry Group 1.760,0 1.773,0 Carnival 1.355,0 1.445,5 Centrica 44,69 46,20 Coca Cola HBC AG 2.390,0 2.410,0 Compass 1.387,50 1.404,50 CRH 3.136,0 3.136,0 Croda Intl 6.408,0 6.468,0 DCC 5.340,0 5.366,0 Diageo 2.914,0 2.940,0 DS Smith 377,90 382,30 EasyJet 838,20 875,00 Experian 2.791,0 2.791,0 Ferguson 8.802,0 8.850,0 Flutter Entertainment 15.045,0 15.250,0 Fresnillo 1.139,50 1.139,50 GlaxoSmithKline 1.332,60 1.341,40 Glencore 235,00 236,80 Halma 2.398,0 2.419,0 Hargreaves Lansdown 1.552,00 1.556,00 Hikma Pharma 2.551,00 2.560,00 HSBC 386,00 389,60 IAG 163,40 168,50 Imperial Brands 1.544,00 1.549,00 Informa 547,20 550,80 InterContinental 4.627,0 4.730,0 Intermediate Capital 1.726,00 1.748,00 Intertek 5.760,0 5.818,0 ITV 108,95 112,45 J Sainsbury 226,70 227,10

% CHG. 1.156,00 2.918,0 2.418,0 1.423,50 3.409,0 2.240,0 7.217,0 583,60 523,00 3.166,0 326,40 512,80 501,60 153,66 683,40 4.699,0 1.949,40 262,65 2.692,0 495,00 135,80 2.406,0 1.729,5 1.341,5 44,58 2.380,0 1.355,00 3.108,0 6.352,0 5.300,0 2.880,0 374,80 837,20 2.704,0 8.732,0 14.845,0 1.122,00 1.328,80 233,80 2.384,0 1.524,00 2.517,00 384,10 162,55 1.534,50 542,80 4.616,0 1.722,00 5.726,0 108,70 224,30

NET VOL 291,48K 136,06K 699,57K 158,35K 134,10K 346,98K 605,93K 477,33K 356,39K 77,09K 2,70M 274,70K 1,34M 32,44M 1,57M 217,17K 654,89K 13,53M 790,54K 626,33K 7,72M 150,28K 290,23K 603,52K 7,06M 195,66K 1,03M 192,77K 218,81K 34,49K 1,03M 610,75K 2,11M 399,16K 65,88K 58,97K 152,50K 2,49M 4,95M 147,27K 413,81K 59,05K 6,36M 21,47M 363,19K 745,10K 85,43K 69,72K 39,53K 4,22M 1,45M

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

Johnson Matthey 2.470,0 JSC MMC Norilsk Nickel ADR 31,33 JSC VTB Bank DRC 0,982 Land Securities 692,20 Legal & General 266,40 Lloyds Banking 38,60 London Stock Exchange 8.878,0 Meggitt 465,00 Melrose Industries 178,95 Mondi 1.709,00 National Grid 857,20 NatWest Group 168,95 Next 6.928,0 Ocado 2.250,00 Persimmon 2.875,0 Phoenix 717,60 Prudential 1.353,00 Reckitt Benckiser 6.494,0 Relx 1.792,50 Rentokil 508,20 Rightmove 643,00 Rio Tinto PLC 5.574,0 Rolls-Royce Holdings 115,75 Rosneft 5,83 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.330,50 Royal Dutch Shell A 1.327,6 Royal Dutch Shell B 1.285,0 RSA Insurance 677,40 Sage 584,20 Samsung Electronics DRC 1.759,00 Sberbank 14,62 Schroders 3.440,0 Scottish Mortgage 1.182,00 Segro 949,80 Severn Trent 2.276,0 Smith & Nephew 1.525,50 Smiths Group 1.522,50 Spirax-Sarco Engineering 11.155,0 SSE 1.522,00 St. James’s Place 1.150,00 Standard Chartered 472,60 Standard Life Aberdeen 289,70 Taylor Wimpey 167,00 Tesco 232,90 Tui 451,40 Unilever 4.310,0 United Utilities 895,40 Vodafone Group PLC 123,24 Whitbread 3.214,0 WPP 813,00

CHANGE(P)

% CHG.

NET VOL

2.524,0 31,39 1,034 702,90 268,60 39,99 8.960,0 470,00 180,00 1.726,00 868,40 173,70 7.130,0 2.264,00 2.968,0 721,80 1.365,00 6.500,0 1.795,00 510,80 656,00 5.639,0 120,75 5,84 1.344,90 1.345,2 1.304,8 679,00 591,40 1.763,00 14,73 3.464,0 1.195,00 949,80 2.342,0 1.553,00 1.540,00 11.375,0 1.539,50 1.157,50 477,30 297,50 176,20 235,10 452,50 4.324,0 903,40 124,50 3.214,0 819,80

2.460,0 30,91 0,973 679,60 261,70 38,45 8.810,0 452,20 171,95 1.702,00 844,40 168,95 6.928,0 2.203,00 2.850,0 710,40 1.344,50 6.372,0 1.764,00 501,60 643,00 5.554,0 114,65 5,46 1.320,75 1.320,8 1.280,2 675,60 578,00 1.752,00 14,52 3.401,0 1.176,00 931,20 2.275,0 1.510,00 1.517,50 11.150,0 1.515,00 1.137,50 468,00 289,10 164,80 227,20 431,10 4.276,0 894,40 122,90 3.128,0 805,60

85,63K 142,65K 84,76K 450,07K 10,83M 260,03M 69,46K 2,08M 2,80M 202,33K 1,38M 11,61M 246,41K 190,69K 575,54K 545,34K 968,52K 217,19K 536,90K 401,41K 554,91K 304,29K 21,13M 317,22K 1,26M 1,26M 1,77M 426,70K 554,92K 3,90K 565,30K 42,41K 1,18M 552,32K 89,67K 440,93K 86,42K 13,13K 577,99K 184,23K 1,23M 1,26M 9,85M 9,59M 875,60K 555,08K 405,84K 16,50M 190,94K 675,02K

0.8989

1.1115 Units per €

US dollar (USD) ......................................1.21899 Japan yen (JPY)......................................126.299 Switzerland franc (CHF) .........................1.08748 Denmark kroner (DKK) ...........................7.43896 Norway kroner (NOK) .............................10.5409

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 D ECEMBER 28

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 174,52 1.738,85 3.172,69 222,93 131,97 217,15 179,56 85,33 44,54 53,44 267,40 256,16 270,92 209,53 124,69 47,07 152,47 124,52 211,39 80,14 222,75 141,60 137,72 225,78 661,77 340,79 58,84 208,70 143,50 173,73

CHANGE 174,79 1.746,00 3.202,00 224,58 133,46 219,88 179,85 85,93 44,59 53,55 270,40 257,62 271,36 210,70 125,10 47,09 153,04 125,55 212,74 80,43 223,61 142,19 138,13 229,19 666,09 341,41 59,07 208,82 144,39 174,58

CHANGE% VOLUME(M) 173,42 656,18K 1.729,11 346,75K 3.169,00 0 222,29 0 131,10 0 216,05 6,40M 178,35 585,73K 84,81 3,34M 44,23 0 53,02 3,27M 266,20 6,70M 253,75 968,15K 269,40 1,09M 208,60 754,91K 124,21 1,76M 46,34 0 151,82 2,11M 123,57 4,16M 211,14 1,05M 79,87 2,82M 221,20 0 141,10 1,82M 136,20 2,59M 224,83 6,15M 641,00 0 336,44 1,36M 58,66 7,75M 206,60 3,37M 143,18 3,02M 172,38 2,72M M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES D ECEMBER 28

COMPANY

CHANGE NET / %

VOLUME

+3.51% +2.37% +14.69% +2.30% +2.14% +3.63% +4.67% +5.11% +26.07% +0.81% +19.31%

5.69M 250,990 1.10M 1.38M 1.39M 385,143 887,843 1.04M 41,683 21,106 1.48M

-10.64% -1.58% -6.34% -78.08% -47.13% -4.64% -6.42% -4.07% -8.31% -5.38% -7.22%

2.31M 286,040 9.45M 16.10M 1.32M 4.73M 3.32M 964,241 852,721 859,157 791,601

Most Advanced Amazon.com Inc. Booking Holdings Inc. MicroStrategy Inc. Alphabet Inc. Cl A Alphabet Inc. Cl C CoStar Group Inc. Cintas Corp.

Ulta Beauty Inc. Beam Global Wt Broadcom Inc. 8% Pfd. Series A Beam Global

Most Declined Trade Desk Inc. Cl A MercadoLibre Inc. Zoom Video Communications Inc. Aprea Therapeutics Inc. Air T Inc. Roku Inc. Cl A DocuSign Inc. MongoDB Inc. Bandwidth Inc. Cl A Wix.com Ltd. Quidel Corp.

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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What to do with the ashes?

ONCE a deceased loved one is cremated, there are many different options for what to do with the ashes. Some people choose to bury them in a cemetery, keep them at home in an urn or even turn them into beautiful pieces of cremation jewellery or memorial art.

Others decide, whether at the request of the deceased or due to personal reasons, to scatter the cremated remains somewhere. Along with the choice to scatter, however, comes a whole new set of decisions to be made. In particular, where those remains should be disbursed?

For this reason, why not consider a pre­planned and pre­paid funeral plan?

Then you can make all these decisions yourself and take the strain off your loved ones when the time comes.

The choice to be cremated is a really important part of your funeral plan; we spoke with Emma who is a funeral plan expert from Golden Leaves who shared with us some of the most common places and also some new unique ideas for you to include in your plan, after all it should be you who gets to choose where your remains will spend the rest of eternity.

1. Private Property Many folks choose to keep the cremains of their loved one close to them by scattering their ashes on their own private property, like in the garden or around a nearby tree. If you choose to have your ashes scattered on private land that belongs to someone else, however, such as in a field or on a farm, be sure to obtain the landowner’s permission in advance of the ceremony. Another thing to keep in mind when scattering on private property is whether your family will have the right to visit that property in the future.

2. Water Another popular way to scatter cremation ashes is to do so across a body of water, such as a river, stream, lake or ocean. Public bodies of water don’t typically require a licence or any special permissions to scatter cremated remains, however, you should be careful not to do so near an extraction point, or where people fish or swim. (Your local environmental agency should be able to help with this.) Keep in mind, also, that loca­ tions on or near the water can be windy, so be sure to check the conditions beforehand.

3. Mountains/Hilltops Hilltops and mountains can provide a beauti­ ful setting in which to say goodbye. One thing to consider, however, is how ashes can im­ pact plant life. While cremains are non­tox­ ic, it’s still advisable to avoid scattering ash­ es where plant ecosystems are more fragile, such as on mountain peaks. Popular climbing areas can also make it difficult to find privacy.

And, like bodies of water, mountains and hill­ tops can be windy, so keep this in mind when planning your ceremony.

4. Scatter Gardens Typically located at a cemetery or crematorium, scatter gar­ dens provide a lovely place for your remains to spend eternity and a serene location for family and friends to visit after. These are areas designated specifically for the scattering of cremated remains. Every facility is different, but some offer additional ways to honour the deceased, including plaques, statues or plants, so that may also be an option.

5. Sporting Venues If you’re an avid sports fan, you may wish to request that the scattering ceremony be held at your favourite stadium, complex or arena. Whether or not this is an option will ultimately depend on the specific policy of the facility in question. Your funeral director may be able to assist you in approaching the venue’s owner to ask permission.

One important thing to point out when it comes to scattering ashes is that there are certain rules and regulations surrounding the process. For instance, some locations re­ quire that advanced permission be granted, paperwork be completed and sometimes even licences be obtained. Others may simply request notification in advance.

It’s wise to check your local laws prior to making plans to avoid any unexpected and unpleasant surprises.

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

EWN 17

18 EWN

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

www.euroweeklynews.com

FEATURE

Happy New Year to all LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT AS we groggily stagger to the end of a year that will go down as one of the most turbulent and life altering epochs in the planet’s history, I can think of only one expression that sums up what most of us must actually feel ­ utterly punch­drunk.

It truly is like coming to the end of a brawl with Mike Tyson. I would like to predict, that now we have all effectively sunk to the canvas ­ the only way is up.

Well, I think that remains to be seen. Boris’s apparent success in finally sealing a deal with Europe, will, no doubt, still have to go a few more rounds before it is fully accepted by the disgruntled remainers, who will inevitably use every last word of the 1,200 page agreement to gain political points or secure their own future careers. (Keep an eye out for Nicola Sturgeon and her ‘new referendum’ plans in particular).

Plenty of blows still to come for a Prime Minister, who some consider to be something of a buffoon. Well whatever they think, this man is still standing solidly in our corner, after experiencing one of the worst economic and public health disasters of all time.

He also became a new parent and survived an illness that put him in intensive care.

Through all of this he still managed to achieve the Brexit he promised at his election. Well I personally think to have survived this particular rumble in the political jungle and come out with most of

his teeth places him very much shoulder to shoulder with any number of our historic political champions.

The vindictive autocrats of the EU who scoffed and humiliated Theresa May have finally had an opponent step in to their pretentious ring who was more than a worthy match for their self­ opinionated personas.

Well done Boris, but don’t drop your guard; you soon need to get back in training to defend the title challengers, who are no doubt lining up to take you on. Personally I think you’re well up for it.

This week’s announcement by the creators of Oxford Covid vaccine revealing, among other weak excuses, that they ‘made a mistake’ and their

preparation was actually ‘far more efficient than was originally thought’ absolutely reeks of political conspiracy.

Some weeks ago, this British version which, because it could be stored at normal temperatures, appeared to be a superior product, was unexpectedly announced as only being 74 per cent effective, thereby allowing the Giant Pfizer Company to jump the gun and be the first distributor of its own ‘superior’ product and subsequently receive the inevitable billions in profits.

Now, after the Pfizer Company has reaped the main harvest, the British vaccine is discovered to be ‘more efficient than originally thought?’ Give us a break. What sort of banana boat do these money manipulators actually think we came over on!? Personally I think it merits a public enquiry. Some chance! Happy New Year.

Keep the faith.

Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com Mon. Wed. Fri.

BORIS JOHNSON: Has finally sealed a deal with Europe.

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

FEATURE

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31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

EWN 19

THURSDAY 31 DECEMBER

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How the West Was Won Wild West: America's Great Frontier The Culture Show Saving Mr. Banks Cornwall: This Fishing Life Dragons' Den Last Woman on Earth with Sara Pascoe A Teacher

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The Best Dishes Ever Made in Great Britain Meerkat Manor Flog It! Richard Osman's House of Games Rick Stein's Cornwall Lose Weight and Get Fit with Tom Kerridge Mastermind Only Connect

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1:50pm 2:20pm 2:55pm 3:25pm

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FEATURE

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NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist.

To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson

FISCHER V SPASSKY. Newton v Leibniz.

Freud v Jung. To the great intellectual clashes of history can be added Trump v Biden (the Trump vs Biden show a wel­ come distraction from our own crisis).

Admittedly, on this occasion, the stan­ dards were considerably lower with the walls inexorably closing in on Trump methodically sawing through the branch he’s sitting on.

The Donald. Yes, him. When the final analysis of Trump lies is published it’ll run into volumes. First, Trump said he had a ‘hunch’ the World Health Organisa­ tion’s 3.4 per cent Covid mortality rate was a ‘false number’ and suggested peo­ ple with coronavirus could go to work and get better. “A lot of people will have this and it’s very mild,” he said in an in­ terview on Fox News. “They’ll get better very rapidly. They don’t even see a doc­ tor. They don’t even call a doctor.”

Later Trump called the coronavirus a ‘horrible infection,’ radically altering his public stance on the pandemic. A day

31 Dec 2020 - 6 Jan 2021

IT’S ONLY FAKE-BELIEVE: FAKE NEWS THAT LEAVES EVERYONE LOST FOR WORDS earlier he declared: “It will go away, just stay calm, it will go away.” Just as Trump would undoubtedly say: “Don’t believe Monday follows Sunday (or the sun rises in the east). That’s just fake news from the lying media.”

Trump was prominent, too, in spread­ ing the false idea that vaccines cause autism, but then changed his tune, urg­ ing people ‘to get the shots.’ Would an embittered Trump, eager to spite his suc­ cessor and win attention for his future media or political career, become a prominent ‘anti­vaxxer’ campaigner again? To ask the question is to answer it.

Additionally, there are all his unfound­ ed conspiracy theories about voting fraud, claiming Mr Biden’s win in Arizona was ‘impossible,’ the results in Nevada ‘fake’ and ‘We won Michigan bigly!’

Have we heard the last of Trump? No. Is the world a safer (and saner) place now he’s (almost) gone? Absolutely. Am I glad? Yes? Am I still talking to myself?

Stop looking at me like that ­ it’s been a long year! So, let’s leave it at this: Happy New Year!

Nora Johnson’s psychological crime thrillers ‘No Safe Place’, ‘Betrayal’, ‘The Girl in the Woods’, ‘The Girl in the Red Dress’, ‘No Way Back’, ‘Landscape of Lies’, ‘Retribution’, ‘Soul Stealer’, ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora­john son.net) available online as ebook (€0.99; £0.99), ibook, paperback and au­ diobook. All profits to Costa del Sol Cud­ eca cancer charity.

TRUMP: The world is a safer (and saner) place now he’s gone.

LEADERSHIP DAVID WORBOYS AS our world slowly disintegrates, morally and physically, we are in urgent need of strong leaders. We need leadership by example. A leader needs to be respected at home and abroad. It means com­ mitment to the country, providing freedom, welfare and justice for all its citizens. It means firm and fair enforcement of human rights, law and order and negotiating sound relationships with other countries for its own security and the betterment of the world.

A majority of leaders have not been up to the task. At one ex­ treme, the entire population is subjugated to the whims and per­ sonal benefit of one head of state and his entourage of sycophants.

Take a bow, Kim Jong­un. In other

EWN 21

CHINA: Xi Jinping. cases the leader subjugates its neighbouring countries. Step for­ ward, Putin and Netanyahu.

Freedom of speech and toler­ ance of dissent, a free press, the rights of women and every kind of minority group should be prerequi­ sites for a civilised country. The army, the police and judiciary must be uncorrupted.

In varying degrees, the leaders

RESPECTED: Lee Kwan Yew. of China, Russia and Iran deny hu­ man rights and free speech while threatening other countries with nuclear, military or cyber aggres­ sion. Others are obsessed by pre­ serving their own power and con­ sequent lifestyle with no regard for the people they govern. There are quite a few examples in Africa as well as Syria, Venezuela, the Philip­ pines and, at present, the USA.

Many leaders are corrupt, mis­ using taxpayers’ money either for personal gain or to cover up trea­ sury mismanagement. Others are simply incompetent or lacking in judgement.

The world would be a better place if certain countries could fol­ low the lead of the US and dump their leaders. At the front of the list, we have Xi Jinping, Putin, Khamenei, Kim Jong­un, Assad, Ne­ tanyahu and Mohammad bin Salman, followed by Dutarte (the Philippines), Maduro (Venezuela), Bolsonaro (Brazil), Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Lukashenko (Belarus), Erdogan (Turkey), and Orban (Hun­ gary). There are many more un­ qualified demagogues, especially in Africa and much more incompe­ tence and negligence worldwide.

With the most charitable of in­ tentions, Angela Merkel misjudged the social repercussions of allow­ ing mass immigration. Apart from that, she remains about the only

leader of any major nation who has displayed leadership qualities.

Unfortunately, such qualities are rare. The last truly successful statesman was probably the uni­ versally respected Lee Kwan Yew who liberated Singapore from British colonialism and trans­ formed his country from an impov­ erished backwater into one of the most stable, disciplined, prosper­ ous and influential countries on Earth.

If the planet is to be saved, it must be through a rapid increase in education. Leaders can set the example by governing with hon­ esty, compassion, integrity and sound judgement. Regardless of in­ dividual or national creeds, the teachings of Christ should be the inspiration of leaders.

The simple message of ‘love thy God’ and ‘love thy neighbour,’ if applied with resolve, would reduce many of the world’s problems very quickly.

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.

A FABULOUS COLUMN HI Leapy, Another fabulous column where you ‘tell it like it is.’

I’m particularly peeved that Kay Burley, having been ‘grassed up’' by her colleagues (well done them!!), has been suspended on full pay and given a free holiday to boot!! She should be sacked, as she suggested should happen when Dominic Cummings broke the Covid restrictions!!

Merry Christmas Leapy and a very Happy (and safe) New Year.

Doug Allen Christmas lunch at Carmens with chef Phil in his christmas outfit showing off his svelte figure!!!!

Kind regards, S Spencer

The Spectator Dear Sir or Madam The World is at a crossroads made more uncertain by the Covid-19 pandemic. I would like to recommend my book as the perfect read over the Christmas and New Year break when, due to the restrictions, so many of us are spending the holiday at home.

Published in 2018 and aimed at the general public, it deals with and analyses the major issues facing the planet including Brexit and the future of the EU. I am personally affected by Brexit as I have been living and working in the EU for more than 30 years. As I do not accept the idea of changing nationality, I have

OUR VIEW Keep carrying on IN many ways it should have been a Christmas to forget with so many restrictions and the continued threat of infection preying on people’s minds, but human beings are remarkably resilient.

No matter your view of the current coalition government and its politics here in Spain, it does seem that we have been remarkably lucky to have come through when you compare the situation to the UK. It is easy to suggest that we have weathered the storm, but this should not detract from the fact that so many people in Spain have been ill and sadly thousands have died either directly or indirectly from the hateful Covid-19.

Looking forward, the vaccine is already being rolled out, albeit in small batches, but it does seem as if there is a genuine light at the end of the tunnel provided that in the meantime, people don’t become complacent and let their social distancing and strict attention to hygiene lapse.

Life will not return to normal for some time yet, but somehow, the economy has to be rescued and those who are suffering financially are found jobs and ways to cope with the fact that they may have been forced to look to charity for their continued existence.

In the main, Brits in Spain can be satisfied in the way they have carried on regardless with so many doing their bit for so many charities and we at Euro Weekly News have been proud to be part of a wide community that clearly cares.

CORRECTIONS

CHRISTMAS COMMENTS FROM FACEBOOK

Adam Sattar

Kay Burley.

requested a permanent French resident document.

Since the outset of the pandemic, I have been pleasantly surprised that academics, historians and economists seem to have adopted many of my views and opinions. I hope you might find the time to check it out.

I would like to wish you a safe and happy New Year. Yours

Special Branch

Peter Fieldman Author of ‘The World at a Crossroads’

Residence problems My family and I have been treated unfairly by Spanish immigrantion as British citizens.

I made an appointment to submit our application in person at the Malaga office.

I was only able to get three appointments so I attended and submitted the forms and proofs but, they requested my daughter’s birth certificate and proof that our children were at school. I submitted the requested documents.

Then a month later my partner and I received a notification that we needed to provide proof that we reside in Spain, but we did not receive the notification until after the 10-day time limit.

I decided to use SpainTIE to submit my partner’s application but, it appears that the company that we paid is no longer in business.

A few weeks later I was notified that my 14-yearold daughter’s application had been accepted.

Fortunately I also hold an Irish passport and decided to apply for my residencia that was issued within five minutes without the need to provide proof that I reside in Spain.

I will now have to apply for my son and partner as a relative of an EU citizen to secure my family’s residencia.

I Kent

HAVE YOUR SAY

Joanne Kenworthy

Adam Sattar

Wendy Young Ho ho ho

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.

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

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YOUR STARS FOR NEXT 7 DAYS ARIES (March 21 - April 20) A friend of long standing comes up with some bright ideas to get you out of a tricky situation. Don’t be surprised. You have for a long time now underestimated their worth. Your friend will be surprised when you show your gratitude in an immediate and physical way, but if there is anything better than finding a new friend it is finding an old friend has hidden talents.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) The urge to get ahead at as fast a pace as possible is apparent this week. Some would say not before time. However, you know the art of choosing the moment and it has not been until now that you have felt the time was right.

This is a truly expansive week and one in which your powers of imagination are given full rein. No wonder you are being admired.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) The company is so interesting that you can hardly tear yourself away and new experiences are arriving every day. You could be forgiven for getting a little overexcited. When travel brings you face to face with a stranger, you find that a bit of information you hear has to be acted upon.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) Someone close gets a real stroke of luck this week and no doubt the benefits will rub off on you. It seems that some fortune will come your way by the end of the month and lead you to see a situation in quite a different light.

Any travel should be left until the beginning of next month if possible because there are likely to be delays and irritations.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) Someone you have been holding at arm's length recently is insisting on getting closer. Charm and tact alone may not save the day, but enlisting the help of a friend could. Travel and career are well-aspected and, if you are expecting a financial windfall, you may have a bit longer to wait.

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) The hard work you have been putting in recently has left you tired and, at times, quite tetchy.

This week you will start to see the

rewards of your efforts which will undoubtedly help you to keep up the momentum. There is a lot of both passion and travel this week, which is set to continue.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) This is a highly sociable week, and you could meet some new faces that not only attract but inspire you. You are a social butterfly, and this brings out your Libran flutteriness. You will have to draw on all your powers of concentration to keep ahead of practical matters such as paperwork.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) You dominate the scene this week and no one is in any doubt about what you are aiming for. If you want to impress someone new to your circle, however, try a bit of cunning as opposed to brow-beating.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21) Communication and selfexpression are what it’s all about this week. Although you may feel that indulging yourself is in some ways selfish, you should realise that you are entitled to some fun.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) The call of romance is strong but so is that of your business life.

The two will clash to the detriment of each other if you do not plan ahead and pace yourself. Do not be at the beck and call of others when you need all your time and energy for yourself.

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Such is your popularity this week that you can be assured of success in many things.

Remember that first impressions can be the most accurate and don’t be tempted to make too many allowances for others.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) For some time you have been trying to settle a certain matter.

Although it is in your nature to get things out of the way quickly, this has not been possible. The chance to make progress this week is welcome but be sure that all is not what it seems.

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 (VIOLIN) and one letter in four other cells are given as clues.

CARTEL COLEUS DETOUR FRIEND INGEST INTENT MATURE MORTAR MUSLIN PRESTO REASON SORTIE SQUINT STEREO STUPOR THEORY UNSURER VIOLIN (10) VISION

LOTTERY UK NATIONAL LOTTERY Sat 26 December

26-43-44 46-52-55

BONUS BALL

6

IRISH LOTTO Sat 26 December

22-23-24 28-32-41

BONUS BALL

44

EURO MILLIONS Tue 22 December

BONUS BALL

4

2-10-16 42-50

11

Fri 25 December

BONUS BALL

16-21-27 30-32

3 5

EL MILLON: JDQ81557 LA PRIMITIVA Thurs 24 December

BONUS BALL

4-6-11 32-36-43

1 4

JOKER: 8 658 600 Sat 26 December

BONUS BALL

16-20-23 31-38-43

27

JOKER: 4 376 608

5

TIME OUT

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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, 18 represents L and 25 represents J, so fill in L every time the figure 18 appears and J every time the figure 25 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 Right (not left) (7) 5 Muñecas (juguetes) (5) 8 To rub (5) 9 To vaccinate (7) 10 Burros (7) 11 Loncha (5) 12 Hablar (5) 14 Blouse (5) 19 Evocar (5) 21 Acostarse (2,2,3) 23 Acuático (7) 24 Igual (5) 25 Mushrooms (flat-topped) (5) 26 Fish (culinary) (7)

Down 1 Golden (6) 2 Reason (5) 3 Beer (7) 4 Aconsejar (6) 5 Patos (5) 6 Lentejas (7) 7 Calle (6) 13 Producto (7) 15 Cartas (Correos) (7) 16 Pétalos (6) 17 Huevera (6) 18 Adult (6) 20 These (5) 22 Witch (5)

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION • LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION QUICK Across: 1 Sweet, 4 Major, 7 Available, 8 Soil, 9 Adapts, 12 Clever, 13 Loaf, 16 Telescope, 18 Hotel, 19 Turns.

Down: 1 Saves, 2 Examine, 3 Team, 4 Melody, 5/17 Job lot, 6 Reeds, 10 Pioneer, 11 Vessel, 12 Catch, 14 Films, 15 Boat.

CRYPTIC

Across: 1 Applaud, 4 Tower, 7 Rings, 9 Stories, 10 Costume, 11 Entry, 12 Ticket, 14 Priest, 18 Chaos, 20 Charger, 22 Avarice, 23 Tribe, 24 Spent, 25 Temples.

Down: 1 Apricot, 2 Pants, 3 Duster, 4 Trove, 5 Whistle, 6 Risky, 8 Sauce, 13 Charade, 15 Roast, 16 Turkeys, 17 Accept, 18 Chats, 19 Shirt, 21 Grill.

ENGLISH-SPANISH Across: 1 Sacro, 3 Bathtub, 6 Husband, 8 Lapiz, 10 Opalo, 11 Eastern, 14 Sorteo, 15 Detail, 17 Scarves, 20 Psalm, 21 Green, 22 Lantern, 23 Retraso, 24 Habas.

Down: 1 Schools, 2 Ocaso, 3 Badge, 4 Tiles, 5 Buzón, 7 Staircase, 9 Preparase, 12 Adds, 13 Doce, 16 Limones, 17 Sugar, 18 Venta, 19 Sello, 20 Punch.

CODE BREAKER

BOGGLED

FUTOSHIKI

ecru ices iguana otic scud scrub surge citrus cuds curt cruse crud cruds gift guru gurn grub grunt gurus ties tics truce truces trug truant tuba turn tuna tune tabu taurus taunt tanh butane burg burn burnt bunt bane duce duces dune urge urges ruse rune rubato runt rhea unhurt abut augur auto aunt ante huge hurt hunt ends etna thus thug thud thuds thru then tend tends tenuto enatic enthuse intend intends

NONAGRAM arid darn dart dirt drat iron nard noir raid rain rand rani rant rind riot road roan rota tarn taro tart tiro tori torn tort trad trio trod trot adorn dinar drain droit indri intro nadir nitro noria radii radio radon ratio tarot torii train trait triad adroit aroint inroad ordain ration triton introit TRADITION

HEXAGRAM

WORD LADDER

1 CHOOSY 2 ASSAIL 3 ESCORT 4 MILIEU 5 SOCIAL 6 BEHEST 7 CEREAL 8 GARISH 9 ENSURE 10 CAROLS 11 WIDGET 12 AGREES 13 UNLOAD 14 HEREBY 15 ALLELE 16 INTUIT 17 ALLEGE 18 TALENT 19 TALLOW

SOCK LOCK LACK LACE LATE DATE

KAKURO

SUDOKU

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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 15 MIN 6 Fri 13 7 Sat 12 8 Sun 12 7 Mon 11 8 Tues - 13 9 Wed 15 9

Alicante TODAY: MAX 14, MIN 8 Fri 13 7 Sat 13 7 Sun 14 8 Mon 13 9 Tues - 14 8 Wed 14 7

Almeria TODAY: MAX 15, MIN 6 Fri 13 9 Sat 12 7 Sun 11 8 Mon 12 8 Tues - 12 9 Wed 13 8

Benidorm TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 7 Fri 16 9 Sat 14 9 Sun 13 8 Mon 12 8 Tues - 12 7 Wed 12 8 Mallorca TODAY: MAX 17, MIN 7 Fri 16 7 Sat 17 8 Sun 17 8 Mon 18 9 Tues 17 7 Wed 16 8

Bilbao TODAY: MAX 13, MIN 5 Fri 13 4 Sat 12 3 Sun 12 4 Mon 13 4 Tues 11 3 Wed 10 4 Madrid TODAY: MAX 13, MIN 3 Fri 13 3 Sat 12 4 Sun 12 5 Mon 13 5 Tues 12 5 Wed 13 4

27

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 14, MIN 5 Fri 14 6 Sat 13 5 Sun 13 6 Mon 14 6 Tues 14 6 Wed 14 7

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

TARGET:

SCORING:

Average: 15 Good: 21 Very good: 31 Excellent: 40

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 Some of the feudal lassies found in Texas (6) 4 Pitch tent by American school grounds (6) 9 Turning up with mice primarily, like cats (5) 10 Loving a party call (7) 11 Noticed old boy was in the armed forces (8) 12 Sound your horn both ways (4) 14 Escapes from crazy, sad Eve (6) 16 Hesitates to use spa turbulence (6) 19 Search thoroughly for a hairdressing tool (4) 20 A veil can hide a Spanish city (8) 23 Turn a blind eye to trick that's performed (7) 24 Canines, for example, restrained by devotee thus? (5) 25 He's far out, in a new way (6) 26 Senior journalist getting to ride around (6) Down 1 Strongly disapprove of silly old peer (7) 2 Pounds containing a thousand young sheep (5) 3 A desert’s transformation is maintained (8) 5 A victory on a river (4) 6 Toxins, is spoon bent? (7) 7 Groan joining Tory leader's vision (5) 8 Get thinner and lighter (5) 13 Thanks to a 40-day period, Edward is skilful (8) 15 Role man created as medical social worker (7) 17 Sam's out to get her - she's a beauty (7) 18 Funny fellows holding note for payment (5) 19 Old clown needs a drink (5) 21 Box put in porches typically (5) 22 Closely follows boxers, for example (4)

TIME OUT

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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 Bring into existence (6) 4 Two items of the same kind (4) 8 Small fragment (5) 9 Assists (5) 10 Finds fault with (10) 13 Not brought to an end or conclusion (10) 17 Tall mechanical lifting device (5) 18 Keyboard instrument (5) 19 Exchange for money (4) 20 Act upon (6)

Down 1 Coins or paper money (4) 2 Mistake (5) 3/18 Inside information (3,3) 5 Book of maps (5) 6 Strive against, oppose (6) 7 Examines (6) 11 Easily chewed, not tough (6) 12 Sounds made by a duck (6) 14 Physically weak (5) 15 Large bird of prey (5) 16 Nautical unit of speed (4) 18 See 3

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

CATS

QUIZ BACK HERO

SMART CARDS 1. First broadcast by the BBC in the 1990s, what was the title of the four-part political thriller, set after the end of Margaret Thatcher’s tenure as prime minister that starred Ian Richardson as Francis Urquhart, a fictional chief whip of the Conservative party?

2. How many decks of cards are used in a game of canasta?

3. In which card game do you score one for his nob and two for his heels?

4. In which decade were yellow and red cards introduced into the English Football League? 1970s 5. Mr Bun the Baker and Mr Bones the Butcher were two of the original 11 sets of characters in which popular children’s card game?

6. Originally a hit for Wink Martindale in 1959, 1960 and 1963, which famous British variety entertainer had a UK hit single in 1973 with Deck of Cards?

7. Said to have been named after an Earl of Yarborough, who bet 1,000 to 1 against the occurrence of such a hand, in bridge and whist, what is a yarborough?

8. The name of which card game, a variety of baccarat, is the French for ‘railway’?

9. Which gambling card game shares its name with a floating structure (as a flat-bottomed boat) that serves as a dock or to support a bridge?

10. Which playing card is nicknamed the ‘curse of Scotland’?

NONAGRAM

RACHEL AND FRIENDS

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 D) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

Not a lot of people know that… specially doctored playing cards were issued to British pilots in the Second World War. If the airmen were captured, the cards could be peeled apart when wet to reveal snippets of maps to assist with escapes

TARGET:

audreyquinton99@gmail.com

Average: 11 Good: 15 Very good: 21 Excellent: 27

Answers 1. HOUSE OF CARDS, 2. TWO, 3. CRIBBAGE, 4. 1970s (1976), 5. HAPPY FAMILIES, 6. MAX BYGRAVES, 7. HAND CONTAINING NO CARD ABOVE A NINE, 8. CHEMIN DE FER, 9. PONTOON, 10. NINE OF DIAMONDS

31 December 2020 - 6 January 2021

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29

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

A Bipolar Diagnosis: It’s not a death sentence!

MS BIPOLAR UP AND DOWN WITH BALANCE UNEDITED FIRSTLY, I would like to thank all of the Euro Weekly readers for taking the time to read my column week after week - also for the letters you send in and encouraging comments on Facebook.

A big shout out to Michel, Steven and red army at EWN head office for their support and hard work in helping and enabling me to get my story across and help others.

I tend to write my columns replacing ‘me’ for ‘we’ - however this week I’m going to write about ME give an honest insight to Ms Bipolar.

These last two weeks I have struggled - yes, really struggled! I have used every bit of my energy and strength to carry on fighting this uphill battle.

I have had my doctor on speed dial making tweaks here and there and giving me the professional support I very much needed.

But I have also looked after ME… I have laughed with family and friends, I have done silly TikTok dance routines with my daughter, I have gone to bed early, made my bed every single morning and … ‘drum roll… please...’ not had any alcoholic bever-

ages in three weeks!!

These little achievements may seem unimportant to most people but to me, they are a reminder that I am still in control and I’m not losing myself to my illness. Just because one day, one week, or more of your life is rough, doesn’t mean things will be that way forever. I know the next couple of weeks will be tough but I also know that I am strong enough to come out of this the other side.

I finally understand the gravity of my illness and when I need to ask for help. This disorder can be fatal if not managed properly I’m both a survivor and an advocate. I want to give hope to the millions of people whose lives have been affected by bipolar disorder.

I’m living proof that a bipolar disorder diagnosis is not a death sentence.

I haven’t just survived, I’ve thrived. And while I’ve had many professional and personal achievements, I’m most proud of my constant recovery.

I am unapologetically ME! Don’t forget - you can write to me on the email below or follow me on Facebook @mswillow bipolar.

Love Ms Bipolar x

msbipolar@euroweeklynews.com

Quitting sugar for good

SUGAR is largely considered the devil of the dietary world with it leading to spiralling obesity rates and ill health.

More and more people are attempting to banish sugar from their diet but it may not be as difficult as you think with some simple steps to get you on the path to a sugar detox: Choose wisely Sugar can be hidden in a lot of products so pay attention to food labels when shopping.

Look at the ingredients list and anything ending in ‘ose’ such as glucose, sucrose and fruc­ tose, is a form of sugar, as are honey, agave, molasses and syrups like corn and rice syrup.

The higher up the ingredients

list the more sugar the product contains.

Smaller steps For those who particularly eat a lot of sugar, going cold turkey can be difficult so take smaller steps and don’t beat yourself up if you fall off the wagon once in a while. But if you do, immediately go back to better eating the next day.

After a week or so, most people report feeling more alert, having more energy and a clearer mind after not eating sugar so start feeling those benefits and you are less likely to want to go back to eating it.

Balance your gut Scientific studies are produc­ ing a growing amount of evi­

dence about the importance of the microscopic bacteria that in­ habit our guts. Taking probiotics can help balance the microbes and reduce sugar cravings.

Stay fuller for longer When hunger strikes, it is hard to resist the urge to quickly grab the chocolate or other sweet treats but these hunger pangs are more likely to signal that your body is needing protein.

One way to help prevent sugar cravings is to try and en­ sure you include a portion of protein with every meal as this is broken down more slowly and therefore stays in the stomach longer, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Look out for your elders THE World Health Orga­ nization has reported that at least 10 per cent of the elderly suffer some sort of abuse, ei­ ther physical, sexual,

psychological, financial, or negligence and has classified this as an im­ portant public health problem.

Most cases are at

homes in developing countries, but this is a re­ minder we should all look out for our elders and report any suspi­ cions.

Go for a walk to lengthen your life JUST a brief, brisk walk, can add years to your life.

Experts say that 15 minutes of daily exercise is enough for older adults to see big benefits to their health with this activity being linked to a 22 per cent lower risk of an early death.

Researchers carried out a study on two groups of people to see if lower levels of exer­ cise could be as beneficial as the recommended 150 min­ utes each week.

One group of 1,011 French people aged 65 in 2001, were followed over a period of 12 years while the second, an in­ ternational group, of 122,417 people aged 60, was followed over 10 years.

Participants’ activity was measured in Metabolic Equiv­ alent of Task (MET) minutes each week, assessing the

GET WALKING: Just 15 minutes can be beneficial. amount of calories used per minute of physical activity.

The recommended levels of exercise equate to between 500 and 1,000 MET minutes every week.

Researchers found that the risk of death fell as the level of exercise increased and com­

pared to those people who were inactive, older adults with low, medium and high ac­ tivity levels had a 22 per cent, 28 and 35 per cent lower risk of death, respectively, showing that even smaller amounts of exercise can boost life ex­ pectancy and improve health

Breast feed for better behaviour RESEARCHERS believe that babies who are breastfed until six months of age are better be­ haved as children.

Experts from Glasgow University monitored the behaviour of 1,500 children aged between seven and 11 and found those who had only been breastfed for the first month of their life, or less, were twice as likely to display behav­ ioural problems than those who were breastfed until six months.

The findings further add fuel to the fire that experts have, for years, recommended women breast feed for at least six months leading to a stronger immune system and improved digestive system in infants.

Figures show that 34 per cent of British children are breastfed until six months, compared to 49 per cent in the US, 50 per cent in Ger­ many and 62 per cent in Switzerland.

BREAST BEHAVIOUR: It’s now believed breastfed babies develop less behavioural problems.

PETS

IF you have pets you may actual­ ly have more than one pet at a time. If like me, you have two pets at a time so they keep each other company you may find that no matter what type of ani­ mal they are the two bond quick­ ly. They become best friends.

Our two, a cat and a dog, were inseparable. It became a natural step that wherever we went away, they would need to stay together in the company of a caring pet­sitter. They obvious­ ly needed to be together and if it made them happier and more comfortable it made sense to me.

Take a moment to plan ahead for pet and house­sitters if you have trips planned next year, 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 that we are all in this together. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com 2. Choose a Premium ac­ count (£89 per year) to ensure

30

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Cat and Dog Story

BEST FRIENDS: Jules and Jim hate being apart. you can help online when needed 3. Create a profile with pho­ tos of your pet and the house 4. Post a house­sit advert stating your plans for next year’s holiday Covid permitting.

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 build your advert saying when you are going on holiday.

House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll 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 perfect 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.Housesitmatch. 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.

Baby talk works... for puppies A STUDY published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B bi­ ology journal has explained that humans talk to dogs in a similar way to babies because puppies in particular are more responsive to the short phrases and high tone.

People were recorded saying certain phrases such as ‘good boy’ and ‘come here’ while looking at photos of dogs of different ages, human beings and while not looking at anything.

Not only were the subjects found to employ what we re­ fer to as baby talk when addressing the dog photos, but when the recordings were played back to dogs of different ages puppies paid far more attention to it.

Older dogs, however, appeared not to be as attentive to baby talk, possibly because as they grow older they are less interested in understanding strangers, scientists suggested.

Dogs are believed to have evolved over more than 30,000 years of close interaction with humans to understand them better. This, researchers claim, has led them to develop communication skills similar to those of small children.

Dogs react to gestures such as pointing in a way which no other animals do, studies have found. Unlike children, though, dogs take these gestures as a mild order rather than a way of passing on information.

DOGS WITH PHOBIA OF INTENSE NOISES:

Fireworks, storms, firecrackers...

ALTHOUGH this year due to the pandemic, it is more than likely there will not be many fireworks, it should be remembered that some dogs show fear of loud noises, such as firecrackers, fire­

works, storms or shotgun shots.

Fear is a normal adaptive mecha­ nism that helps the animal cope with stimuli that could end its life.

But if this fear is dispropor­

tionate, that is, an exaggerated level of reaction with respect to the stimulus, we are talking about a phobia. If your dog suf­ fers from an intense noise pho­ bia behavior, it is advisable to consult your veterinary specialist in clinical ethology who will re­ sort to behaviour modification techniques to eliminate fears and phobias.

Tips for Loud Noise Phobia: ­ Provide the dog with a safe environment, do not reinforce fear, use pheromones and anxi­ olytic drugs if necessary (ask your vet): A safe place is one previous­ ly positive, that is, through the use of food and play. Do not put your dog in a crate to avoid de­ structive behaviour during a storm. The dog is still going to be scared when in the crate and it is likely that he could injure himself trying to get out of the crate. ­ When your dog is beginning to have anxiety, before he shows his fearful behaviour, encourage him to participate in an activity that captures his attention and distracts him from his fear.

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Zaha Inspires Palace

Leicester City drew against Crystal Palace.

TRANSFER target Wilfried Zaha inspired Crystal Palace’s draw against high­flying Leicester City who dropped points for the sec­ ond game in a row.

AC Milan target Wilfried Za­ ha’s strike in the 58th minute put the home side ahead after the Foxes spurned a number of first­ half opportunities before the visi­ tors were finally rescued by a late Harvey Barnes strike.

Palace suffered two defeats over Christmas including a 7­0 thrashing from Liverpool and

must have feared the worst when Kelechi Iheanacho stepped up to take a penalty on 18 min­ utes after Tomkins caught Thomas in the area.

However, with main penalty takers, Vardy and Tielemans on the bench, Iheanacho stepped up but lacked the confidence of his teammates and Guaita made a comfortable save.

Zaha started and finished a wonderful counter­attack before the hour mark and Palace looked good to hang on for the win,

however, the visitors pressed and Harvey Barnes scored for the sec­ ond game in a row, after making his way along the top of the area before sending a low shot home on 83 minutes to rescue the Fox­ es.

The result sends Leicester back into second and face Newcastle United on Sunday January 3, while Palace are next in Premier League action on Saturday Janu­ ary 2 at home against Sheffield United after moving up one place into 13th following this result.

WAITING ON JUNTA UPDATE THE BAHA WHISKEY PLAY­OFFS due to take place on Saturday January 9 and the Official Inaugural Opening of the New League Season were waiting to see if restrictions will be eased and hopefully not tightened when the Junta make their next statement.

Viñuela, Nerja and the two Benahavis teams need to get access to their venues to prepare them for the two competitions.

The other teams have managed a few sessions at Finca Naundrup but not enough to gain match fitness.

The League Management Committee held a

short notice ‘Zoom’ meeting last Thursday and voted to continue with plans for the Inaugural Opening of the New League season while moni­ toring the situation in the next few weeks.

Having received the fixtures for the season they are keen to don their strips and take to the field to get the season underway. Here’s hoping the Junta make their next decision on Covid the right one We bow out wishing Michel, Steven and ALL staff at the EWN, our members and followers whereever you are, A VERY HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2021.

Ghazi Stops Chelsea

ANWAR EL GHAZI’S goal caused a major headache for Chelsea manager Frank Lampard after his side dropped points again for the fourth time in five Premier League games.

Chelsea ended the year with just one win in five after Aston Villa earned a 1­1 draw at Stam­ ford Bridge, thanks to El Ghazi’s continued goalscorer form.

Lampard’s side, who lost 3­1 to Arsenal in their last Premier

League outing, took the lead thanks to in­form Olivier Giroud who scored for the seventh suc­ cessive game against the Villans in the Premier League on 34 minutes.

However, Anwar El Ghazi scored his fifth goal in as many games to level the match on 50 minutes to help seal a point for the visitors in a result that sees Villa move up to fifth, six points off leaders Liverpool with a

game in hand.

The Stamford Bridge team, on the other hand, are in sixth on the same points as Villa, but having played two more games and on a dismal run of results.

Next up for Chelsea is a tough game at home against Manches­ ter City on Sunday January 3 vwhile Aston Villa take on the other Manchester club travelling to Old Trafford to face Manches­ ter United on New Year’s Day.