Euro Weekly News - Costa Blanca South 1 - 7 April 2021 Issue 1865

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The people’s paper ISSUE NO. 1865

1 - 7 April 2021

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH • WWW.EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM

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TOURISM COMEBACK

TOURISM will make a comeback in the second half of 2021, predicted the Valencian region’s Tourism chief, Francesc Colomer.

He admitted this was conditioned by the health situation and the rhythm of vaccinations.

The best economic and humanitarian policy was “vaccinate, vaccinate and vaccinate,” Colomer declared while recently visiting Castellon.

“We foresee a very complicated and difficult first six months for 2021, including Easter,” Colomer said.

“During the second half the pace will be set by the re-

TOURISM CHIEF: Colomer during a recent tourism seminar

covery of the health crisis, the rhythm of vaccinations and a resurgence of the tourism sector," he added.

“People are very eager to travel.”

Colomer also referred to the suggestion from hoteliers’ association Hosbec that restrictions on travel between autonomous regions could be lifted if hotels paid for guests’ Covid tests.

It was plausible he said: “As an experiment it would enable us to gauge our capacity for living with the virus and the problems of a postCovid world.”

Colomer went on to say that safely reconciling the

economy and health was a “very interesting question” and agreed that Covid passports were on the table.

“The problem isn’t travel, the problem is travelling while infected or without knowing that you are, that’s why a vaccination passport could guarantee fluid and dynamic tourism,” the Tourism head declared.

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Ten years on ALICANTE-ELCHE AIRPORT recently celebrated its passenger terminal’s 10th anniversary.

Roughly 100 people representing ground staff, police, the Guardia Civil, firefighters and all those who contribute to the day-to-day running of the airport met outside to form an outsize number 10 on the aircraft parking apron.

Given the present circumstances, they were all careful to observe the unavoidable anti-Covid health and safety measures.

Celebrating the 10 years since the terminal was inaugurated was doubly symbolic because the anniversary arrived at a critical time for all those who would ordinarily use the airport.

In 2019 a record number of more than 15 million passengers used Alicante Airport.

Meanwhile, as AENA pointed out on the terminal’s 10th anniversary, despite the pandemic Alicante Airport continues to provide an essential service and is key to revitalising Alicante Province’s economic and social infrastructure.

Perilous journey ORIHUELA’S Environment department and the Confederaio Hidgrafica del Segura (CHS) are collaborating to save the River Segura’s chub.

The fish, also known as barbel, will soon be going upstream to spawn and both city hall and the CHS, which is responsible for all the area’s rivers, want to ensure that as few fish as possi‐ ble die on their yearly journey.

The fish, which are native to the Segura, frequently fail to reach the Segura’s upper reaches when faced with man‐made weirs and dams, explained Orihuela’s Environment councillor Damaso Aparicio.

“We are acting rapidly to avoid the deaths which, unfortu‐ nately, occur every year when this species spawn” said Ori‐ huela’s Environment councillor Damaso Aparicio.

“This is a natural occurrence that is not connected to the bad state of the river water,” he said, reminding the local popula‐ tion that both city hall and the CHS were working together to keep maintain the Segura “in perfect conditions.”

All under control TORREVIEJA Town Hall will spend €1.671 million to ensure that its beaches will be the safest and cleanest this summer.

But as well as being safe, with marked out spots on the sand to ensure social distancing for beachgoers, they will also pro‐ vide employment for 194 people. Of these, 40 will be engaged to control transit along Torrevieja’s promenades between the Paseo Vista Alegre and Punta Margalla at the times of the day when they are most in use.

This service is due to commence in mid‐June and will contin‐ ue until mid‐September, said Beaches councillor Antonio Vidal.

NEWS

In a manner of speaking HUNDREDS of opponents to the ‘imposition’ of Valen‐ ciano in state schools, protested last Sunday in Pilar de la Horadada.

Owing to Covid restric‐ tions, parents, teachers and sympathisers took to the streets in a caravan of vehi‐ cles in the protest organised

by Pilar’s Platform for Lin‐ guistic Freedom.

Although the Plataforma had expected 150 vehicles, more than 400 cars, lorries and tractors took part in the

protest, calling for the repeal of the Valencian Communi‐ ty’s Plurilingualism Law. The caravan set out shortly after 11am headed by six tractors, the first of them driven by Pilar de la Horada‐ da’s mayor Jose Maria Perez.

Also present were the mayors of Cox, Almoradi, Bi‐ gastro, Albatera, and Santa Pola.

The Spanish flag, rather than the Valencian Commu‐ nity’s, was much in evidence as the vehicles drove 3.5 kilo‐

metres through the town centre to the municipal sports centre.

“We want to emphasise our categorical rejection of the imposition of Valenciano and the Plurilingualism Law,” declared the Plataforma’s spokesman Matias Campillo.

“We are protesting in de‐ fence of the Spanish lan‐ guage and local pupils’ right to study in their mother‐ tongue,” Campillo explained, insisting that this was not an anti‐Valenciano protest.

Historic Monument Vandalised THE Provincial Court of Alicante has dismissed appeals and convicted four individuals of damaging a historical Costa Blanca monu‐ ment.

The men were fined €1,080 for damaging the 16th century Torre Conde in San Juan, an old watchtower built to guard the coast from attacks.

The graffiti artists rather short‐sightedly signed their artistic names on the protected heritage site and caused damage worth an es‐ timated €507.

Three of the individuals appealed their con‐ victions back in December, claiming that the court had made errors in assessing the evi‐ dence, but the hearing this week upheld the verdicts, insisting that the experts correctly identified the perpetrators.

“They specialise in the activities of graffiti artists,” the tribunal declared. These special‐ ists confirmed the identity of one of the de‐ fendants who signed his name both as ‘Triqui’ and ‘Birras’ by comparing this signature with some of his ‘work’ posted on social media.

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NIBS EXTRA Clean machine ORIHUELA City Hall acquired a new side-loading, state-of-the art refuse collection lorry that complies with all EU emission directives. Together with four similar vehicles purchased in 2019 the city can offer an improved service while making significant savings on repairs and upkeep, explained Orihuela mayor Emilio Bascuñana.

Hit-and-run TORREVIEJA’S Local Police soon arrested the hit-and-run driver that ran down a cyclist who, left bleeding and badly injured on the road, was afterwards diagnosed with a broken hip. Police later thanked witnesses who saw the car speeding off towards Orihuela for providing them with a conclusive lead.

All natural SANTA POLA Town Hall organised outings for pupils taking part in the the local high school’s Ecocanvis environmental project, introducing them to the vegetation of the Las Salinas national park.

They were also shown how the park has substituted natural materials for plastic plant cages and other equipment.

Hear this A SIGN language interpreter is now present at Cox Town Hall press conferences so that those with impaired hearing may learn what is happening inside the municipality. This step was the outcome of collaboration between the town hall and ADIS, the local association for residents with functional diversity.

Tree award BIGASTRO was a prize-winner in the second edition of the Good Practices for Biodiversity Awards organised by Spain’s Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP). The Vega Baja town was singled out by the General Assembly for its Adopt a Tree when You Shop initiative in the Flora category.

Good example PILAR DE LA HORADADA Town Hall introduced a new by-law regulating vacant land inside the town. Emphasising the importance of clearing plots of weeds and rubble, the town hall announced that it was no longer necessary to fence land, admitting that many municipallyowned plots were not enclosed.

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Let’s help Jodie

JODIE LEE BAXTER lives in Daya Nueva and urgently needs a stairlift.

Thirty-three years old and mother to three wonderful children, Jodie has suffered epileptic fits since she was young and in 2018 had to be put into an induced coma when the seizures became worse.

Since then Jodie has had reduced mobility from the waist down and was told she would never walk again. Now she can’t leave the house unless her husband carries her downstairs.

He has converted their garage so that Jodie can live

JODIE: Doctors have told her she will never walk again. at ground level, but this isolates her from the children who are too young to be left

alone upstairs.

Jodie has tried unsuccessfully to get a bank loan for a stairlift

but was turned down as she is classed as a permanent invalid.

“All she wants is to be able to look after her family again, get the children ready and take them to school without having to depend on everybody else,” explained Jade Danielle who is organising the www.GoFundMe ‘Let’s help Jodie get her lift installed’ appeal.

“She does free translating to help people and raises money for charity. I know Jodie and she doesn’t like asking for help, but I’m asking for help so that her life can return to some semblance of normality,” Jade said.

The Pativel fight continues THE Generalitat reassured Valencian Com‐ munity mayors that it is opposing annul‐ ment of the Coastal Infrastructure Action Plan (Pativel).

Last February, the Valencian Communi‐ ty’s Upper Court of Justice (TSJCV) an‐ nulled the 2018 law protecting 7,000 hectares of undeveloped coastal areas from speculation. At the same time, Pativ‐ el permits construction of 50,000 proper‐ ties over the next 10 years.

Further resources for the Vega Baja ROJALES is to have a care home for the elderly and two centres for those with severe mental health problems.

The regional government, the Generalitat, has allocated €10 million for the projects un‐ der its Infrastructure Plan to provide more resources for ar‐ eas where there is least cover‐ age.

Enric Juan, the Generalitat’s director general for Social Ser‐ vices’ Infrastructure, recently visited Rojales to see first‐hand the site of the planned build‐ ings.

Juan stressed that the project was viable thanks to the collab‐ oration of Rojales Town Hall, which provided the plot of land, together with the Diputacion provincial council and the Gen‐ eralitat.

“Collaboration between the administrations is vital if citizens are to receive the attention and resources they deserve,” the di‐ rector general declared.

Some municipalities welcomed the move to cancel out Pativel, but others are opposed to it and Arcadi España, who heads the regional government’s Territori‐ al Policies, reassured these town halls that the Generalitat is fighting the TSJCV deci‐ sion.

“For the time being and pending a pro‐ nouncement from the TSJCV regarding our appeal, Pativel remains in force and our beaches and coast are protected,” he said.

España explained that the sentence that the Generalitat was appealing against was not based on the substance of the law it‐ self but “merely formal questions.”

These were based on arguments from a Torrevieja‐based company which com‐ plained that Pativel was passed without an economic‐financial survey of the cost of implementing the law, its impact on gen‐ der issues and its effects on “childhood, adolescence and the family.”

More room for La Diablesa ORIHUELA’S Archaeological Museum located in the centuries‐old San Juan de Dios church and hospital, will have a €350,000 makeover.

The cash from the regional government’s Housing department will cover half the €700,000 cost of re‐ habilitating what was once the Men’s Ward, an empty floor above it and a rear patio over the next two years. Once finished, the new floor will house the 1695 sculpture, El Triunfo de la Cruz, which is taken out during Orihuela’s Holy Week processions. Also known as La Diablesa, because it features a bare‐ breasted female devil, this represents the triumph of the Cross over the world, the flesh and the devil but is barred from entering the Orihuela Cathdral and must wait outside during the Easter processions.

Alleged abuser Ready for Easter beachgoers are on duty between 11am and 5pm on Elche’s refused to testify LIFESAVERS beaches, where they will continue until Monday, April 5.

A 59‐YEAR‐OLD accused of abducting and sexually abusing a young disabled woman refused to testify before the Elche High Court.

Remanded in prison since he was arrested in August 2019, he admitted having sexual relations with the wom‐ an after she left her Elche home late at night, but claimed it was consensual.

The Public Prosecutor is asking for an 18‐year sentence and the hearing took place behind closed doors to pro‐ tect the victim who is 66 per cent dis‐ abled and has a generalised develop‐ ment disorder.

Although the hearing was delayed when the accused refused to make a statement, he now awaits sentencing.

The Tourism offices in Arenales del Sol and La Marina will re‐ main open over Easter with teams to cover the beaches in the northern and southern sections of the Elche coast.

City hall’s Tourism councillor Carles Molina explained that ser‐ vice is provided by DYA, the non‐profitmaking association which provides a comprehensive emergencies service and was originally founded to provide assistance on main roads.

Market fees returned PILAR DE LA HORADADA Town Hall is returning the fees paid by 70 market traders last winter.

The last meeting of the Local Government Board has now au‐ thorised repayment of the €14,402 they were charged in advance for the first six months of 2020. “Fees for the summer and the second half of the year were waived, and the 350 traders who set up their stalls in Pilar de la Horadada did not have to pay anything at all,” explained Commerce councillor Jose Antonio Martinez.

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Church of England celebrates Easter THE Church of Eng‐ land will be cele‐ brating Easter as usual at La Siesta Church, Calle Granados, Torre‐ vieja.

It has been a dif‐ ficult year so far for all of us, said Father Richard A Seabrook SSC, the Priest of the Chap‐ laincy, but Easter always remains a sign of the triumph of hope in dark‐ ness.

There will be services for Maun‐ dy Thursday at 18.00 (when Chris‐ tians recall the night Jesus Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist) and on Good Friday at 15.00.

On Easter Sun‐ day we will gather for our 11.30 Mass to celebrate the Resurrection of Our Lord continued Father Seabrook.

It is a celebra‐ tion of joy and light and new life coming out of the darkness and sor‐ row of Good Fri‐ day.

The Chaplaincy continues to ob‐ serve all the neces‐ sary steps for a Covid‐19 safe envi‐ ronment.

The church is thoroughly cleaned after every service, social distancing is observed and there is a track and trace system.

Please contact Sue Maude at warden lasiesta@gmail.com if you would like to book a place at any of the services.

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Airport Nightmare IT’S no secret that Spanish au‐ thorities are planning to come down hard on British citizens over‐staying the 90‐day limit, but one expat couple experi‐ enced the ultimate nightmare at Alicante‐Elche airport after fol‐ lowing to the letter everything that the UK government web‐ site told them to do. Speaking exclusively to Euro Weekly

News, the distraught Brits told of their distress and being shout‐ ed at by officials at Alicante air‐ port before being unceremoni‐ ously dumped back on the same plane they arrived in on and flown back to the UK. One of the expats, who prefers to remain anonymous, told EWN he was delighted when he found seats on an easyJet flight coming

to Alicante on March 26, after four previous trips had been can‐ celled by the airlines, as he and his wife were anxious to return to finalise the sale of their home.

Having checked the rules on the UK government website, they headed to London Gatwick armed with a signed letter from their Spanish solicitor, an ap‐ pointment with the notary, and a signed copy of their sales con‐ tract with the buyer, along with results of their £330 Covid tests.

Upon arrival at the Spanish air‐ port, when it was the couple’s turn to have their documentation checked, they were astonished to discover that rather than ex‐ amining their documents to ap‐ prove their stay, the Spanish po‐ lice were instead completing their deportation order. When

the man phoned his solicitor, an officer reportedly shouted: “Get off your phone. No pictures.”

“I cannot understand why they were shouting so much. The police captain or chief was the most aggressive and even his other officers seemed surprised at how bad he was,” the disap‐ pointed man told EWN. “We were given a letter each, written in Spanish and told to go home. Then the final insult, like criminals, we were all escorted by guards directly onto the same plane that we had arrived on a few hours earlier.”

The angry expat told EWN that it is hard to accept Boris John‐ son’s vow that British people with holiday homes will soon be allowed to travel to Spain after his horrendous experience.

NEWS

Ghost Estate dangerous

HOUSES: Are now an eyesore in the area.

THE Costa Blanca is known for its white sandy beaches, picturesque vistas and often opulent homes, but the residents of Calle Vince Van Gogh in Murcia would describe their beloved neighbourhood as anything but an oil painting. Some 32 homes along this stunning stretch in San Pedro del Pinatar have simply been abandoned with no sign of work recommencing.

One resident who contacted Euro Weekly News highlighted the fact that it’s not only the unpleasant view that is a concern, but rather that many locals are frightened to walk their streets as the properties have now become a gathering place for various undesirables drinking late into the night and shouting abuse at concerned locals who try to challenge them.

Over time, many of the houses have been systematically stripped of their windows, doors, shutters and even security bars, while the walls, pavements are gardens surrounding them are not just an eyesore but downright dangerous.

The concerned resident told this paper that she has contacted the police, the keyholder for the properties and even the mayor, but all of her grievances have fallen on deaf ears.

To add insult to injury, major work is currently being carried out on the approach road to Montesol Villas with plans in place to construct new villas, while the existing properties are falling down around residents’ ears.

“These eyesores are a blight on the landscape and I have been threatened on more than one occasion trying to move people on, especially during lockdown,” the frustrated resident told EWN. “The only good thing is the light nights are now coming in and I will not be in fear going to the bin at night. My husband is immobile and is unable to do this task,” she added.

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Target surpassed THE country has man‐ aged to reach 21.4 per cent of its energy de‐ mand with renewables in 2020, thereby exceed‐ ing the target estab‐ lished by European regu‐ lations.

Had it not been for the impact of the pandemic, Spain would have fallen short, covering around 19.5 per cent of national energy consumption, ac‐ cording to the Observato‐ ry of the Energy Transi‐ tion and Climate Action, a project of the Basque Centre for Climate Change (BC3).

The EU is currently working on regulations to achieve a 55 per cent re‐ duction in CO2 emissions by 2030, which will re‐ quire a huge increase in the penetration of renew‐ ables.

Spain has already com‐ mitted to achieving 42 per cent by the end of the decade.

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Revolutionary UK Branches to Close Treatment

THE Hospital Clínico de Santiago in Galicia has become the first centre in the public health system in Spain to successfully com‐ plete a treatment with HIFU (high frequency ultrasound) on a pa‐ tient with Parkinson’s disease, which has been shown to reduce symptoms such as tremors by up to 80 per cent.

The revolutionary method produces almost immediate results with a new ultrasound machine that doesn’t require surgical in‐ tervention. Rather, the technology creates a burn of no more than three millimetres in the part of the brain that controls move‐ ment.

The entire treatment lasts between just 30 and 45 minutes and there is no age limit. According to experts, “spectacular results are achieved, with great safety and with hardly any contraindica‐ tions.” What’s more, the results last.

In Galicia about 4,000 people, mainly elderly, suffer from Parkin‐ son’s disease. Almost half of them fail to see improvements with conventional treatments and or, when they do, suffer side effects.

SANTANDER bank has announced plans that will see 111 branches closed throughout the country as more and more people use mobile and online banking rather than visiting their bank in person. The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has accelerated the shift to online banking too.

The closures will see around 840 staff affected although Santander have committed to trying to find them alternative positions within the bank. Santander con-

firmed that the Coronavirus pandemic has increased the ongoing trend which has seen branch visits reduced.

Adam Bishop, head of branches at Santander spoke about the difficult decision to close branches and explained that, “Branch usage by customers has fallen considerably over recent years so we have made the difficult decision to consolidate our presence in areas where we have multiple branches relatively close together.”

BANK PLANS: More and more people use online banking.

Brussels Will Definitely Deliver

THE European Commissioner for Internal Market, Thierry Breton, as‐ sured that Brussels will provide to Spain “what it needs” to achieve immunisation of 70 per cent of the adult population by the summer.

He made this vow while visiting the site of the new Janssen vaccine plant in Barcelona with Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Reyes Maroto, on Friday, March 26. The Sant Joan Despi plant, operat‐ ed by pharmaceutical company Reig Jofre, will begin manufacturing the new vaccine in June and will be capable of turning out one million doses a day.

The Commissioner said that Brussels doesn’t consider the use of Rus‐ sia’s Sputnik V Covid jab necessary at the moment, since there are al‐ ready four approved vaccines, with a fifth, Novavax, on the way.

He added that they are constantly working to improve the supply from the 52 pharmaceutical companies currently producing the jabs, and that by mid‐July some 420 million doses will have been delivered throughout Europe. Ms Maroto added that 5.5 million doses of the one‐shot Janssen vaccine are due to arrive in Spain in April, which will go a long way to accelerating the vaccination process.

There are also plans afoot to move the bank’s headquarters to Milton Keynes from London. The decision will see the floor space rented out and the capital reduced. Other office closures are planned before the end of the year too.

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Hidden epidemic UK PRESS DRUGS: Are being used more by older people.

T H E use of drugs such as painkillers among older people globally has risen in recent years and countries must act to address this “hidden epidemic,” the International Narcotics Control B oard ( I N C B ) has warned in its annual report. “ T he pandemic has caused great harm to the health and the well-being of older people. However, there is also a hidden epidemic of drug use affecting this population group,” said Cornelis de Joncheere, President of the INCB. The reports claims that as the world grows older, drug use among people over 65 has also grown. It found increased use of pain relievers, tranquilisers and sedatives among this demographic.

O lder people with substance use problems also face unique age-related issues, including isolation or physical challenges.

EURO WEEKLY NEWS CEO Michel Eu‐ esden has been quot‐ ed by the UK press in an article showing Spanish authorities have denied claims 500 expats will be de‐ ported.

Michel quoted in UK press.

The Express news‐ paper has this morning claimed Spain’s government is not planning mass deportations of unregistered UK expats, as suggested by the British press.

They quote the Spanish interior ministry as saying: “Fol‐ lowing the UK’s departure from the European Union, and in accordance with the Brexit agreement with EU countries and international conventions, British citizens are subject to the same rules as citizens of other third‐party countries.

The same article quoted Michel as commenting on re‐ ports of large numbers of expats leaving Spain.

Meanwhile, Sue Wilson, chair of Bremain in Spain, a group campaigning for the rights of British migrants living in Spain, claimed people face a 90‐day deadline to leave the country.

She said: “These are people who have been flying under the radar for a long time when they should have registered their residence in the country and didn’t for whatever rea‐ son.

“Many are still planning to do the same and think the Spanish will either turn a blind eye or will take time to get their act together to enforce the law.”

NEWS

Less plastic on shelves AS part of its 6.25 Strategy to reduce the use of plastic by 25 per cent by 2025, supermarket Mercadona has eliminated all singleuse disposable plastic products from its stores and replaced them with more sustainable materials. Through this initiative, the company will invest some €140 million to make all packaging recyclable and, in turn, recycle any plastic waste it might generate.

In January, the grocery chain stopped using plastic bags in its physical stores and online deliveries, replacing them with compostable bags made from potato starch, resulting in a 3,200 tonne reduction in plastic.

Having now done away with the likes of single-use picnic plates and cutlery, Mercadona has introduced new kitchenware made from environmentally friendly materials such as cardboard, wood and sugar cane. The new products are dishwasher safe and 100 per cent recyclable. Through their commitment to the environment, this new action will reduce the amount of plastic used by 3,000 tonnes per year - the equivalent of 120 lorry-loads.

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Vaccine Certificates

A GOVERNMENT minister has said UK travellers will be offered vaccine certificates before they travel internationally.

The Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, said: “On the international stage, vaccine certification is not entirely within our control and if our citizens want to travel abroad, we’ll need to ensure that they are able to do so.”

The government said: “The UK is working with other countries who have started similar programmes, to lead global efforts to adopt a clear international framework with standards that provide consistency for passengers and industry alike.”

The certificate, which would allow travel, is hoped to be introduced by the summer.

Covid laws will be extended until September UK MPs on Thursday March 25 voted staggeringly in favour of coronavirus laws remaining in place until September, despite Tory rebellion.

Despite Matt Hancock admitting he can’t rule out try‐ ing to renew them again, The Commons voted 484 to 76 which is a majority of 408.

The Health Secretary was unable to guarantee that it was the final time MPs would be asked to roll‐over the powers.

Thirty‐six Conservative MPs voted against the renewal of the Coronavirus Act, while 21 Labour MPs also voted against it.

It was questioned by Tory rebels why the laws needed to be kept in place when the lockdown is set to end in June. The law can only be extended for six months at a time.

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Airline Controversy STRUGGLING airline Plus Ultra is in the news again, this time for offer‐ ing so‐called repatriation flights from Spain to Venezuela at an eye‐wa‐ tering €1,200, despite the fact that the Spanish Government put a stop to the return journey last month.

The carrier, owned by Venezuelan business‐ men and given a contro‐ versial bail‐out of €53 million by Spain, has ad‐ vertised the flights from Madrid to Caracas begin‐ ning in the first week of April.

A complaint has been filed by Vox with the Supreme Court in March as the deputy of Vox claimed that the airline did not meet the require‐ ments to avail of the state aid since “it is not a strategic company with relevance in its sector nor are its losses caused

by Covid‐19.”

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NEWS

Prices rise again

THE price of electricity is rising again this month in Spain and will be 12 per cent higher at the end of March than it was in February.

The electricity bill of an average user is up to around €55.20 per month in March, which is 12.6 per cent more than in February and 16 per cent more than in March last year, according to the National Markets and Competition Committee.

The reasons behind the rising electricity prices in March, according to a report in national Spanish press, are the fact that wind production of electricity has fallen and had to be covered by combined gas cycles, an expensive raw material which must also compensate for CO2 emissions. It also happens when less energy is being produced by renewable sources such as wind and water, as it has to be made using fossil fuels such as gas or coal.

The price of petrol also influences production costs.

Comparing with last year,

GAS BOTTLES: Also to increase. another reason is because demand fell during the State of Alarm.

Electricity began to rise in April 2019, although this was followed by 19 months of falling prices, then two months of rises, in December 2020 and January 2021, and then another drop in February this year.

Meanwhile, the price of bu-

tane gas bottles in Spain is also continuing to rise, and is now at €13.96, the highest since January 2019, and it is expected to continue to rise.

The Consumer Organisation, OCU, has recommended that families who are having financial difficulties should check if they are entitled to benefits to help pay their energy bills.

NEWS

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ERTE Applications Lost THE March 9 cyberattack on the State Public Employment Service (SEPE) not only com‐ promised sensitive data and threatened to delay the pay‐ ment of unemployment ben‐ efits across Spain, but also caused the loss of thousands of new applications, accord‐ ing to Spanish daily press.

The publication claims that while the Ministry of Labour continues to deny that the malicious virus affected SEPE files, in at least one province all pre‐applications for unem‐ ployment benefit and ERTE (Furlough) have disappeared for the period between March 4 and March 9.

The Labour Ministry insists that all data is completely safe, stating that: “No pre‐application was lost because all those that en‐ tered were duly backed up and copies of the files were also sent to the provincial ad‐ dresses of the SEPE so that they could have a reliable record and check in these lists each and every one of the pre‐applications,” sources

from the Ministry told the press.

However, several SEPE staff members have claimed that the virus may also have im‐ pacted the back‐up files, re‐ sulting in their loss. Sources from the Workers’ Commis‐

sions Union commented that it is a matter of “uncertainty and insecurity” for the appli‐ cants, who will not know if they have been affected by the cyberattack “until some time passes” and they are ei‐ ther paid or not.

Protecting Renters

VALENCIA has already prevented ‘vulture funds’ from buying up entire buildings to turn into tourist apartments in the historic city centre and now the councillor for Housing, Isabel Lozano, has announced her intention to suspend licences for tourist apartments on entire buildings in 37 neighbourhoods throughout the city. Her aim, she said, is to “paralyse speculative movements of vulture funds and large corporations that, in order to carry out their activity, expel residents from the city’s neighbourhoods, as is the case now on Calle Turia, with expulsion not only from residences but also from businesses.”

To prevent this kind of mass buying-out of buildings and the subsequent eviction of tenants, Councillor Lozano has proposed suspending the processing and granting of licences for new apartment buildings which are exclusively for tourists’ use in certain areas for the next two years. She is hoping that her measure will be approved at the next municipal plenary session in April so that it can be enforced as soon as possible.

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NEWS

Thirty-one people arrested NATIONAL POLICE arrested 31 Romanian citizens at La Jonquera, the border with France, who were found to be travelling in a bus with forged false PCR certificates.

Its occupants had certificates which appeared to have been carried out in laboratories in Spain but which had been falsified.

The police had been investigating the possible falsification of PCR tests by some EU citizens so they would be able to travel to their home countries. Therefore, an investigation was launched in midMarch by the UCRIF in Girona, the unit specialising in fighting illegal immigration and document falsification based on information from the French police regarding

Falsification of PCR tests.

the existence of the falsified certificates.

Information was exchanged between the Spanish and French police thanks to bilateral agreements.

Once the French authorities were informed, they refused to let them cross the border and the travellers were taken into custody

by the Spanish National Police and once the laboratories had confirmed the falsification, they were arrested and released with charges after giving a statement to the police awaiting a court hearing.

The investigation is ongoing to determine who was involved in tampering with the certificates.

Asylum Seeker Prison IN a move that has caused some controversy, the Home Office has defended plans for a new prison style facility to be built near Consett, in County Durham. The new deten‐ tion facility is set to home asylum seekers and will be built on the Medomsley Detention Centre site.

The Home Office have defended the scheme that is set to house around 80 women, and will be called the Hassockfield immigration removal centre. They claim that the new site will not only create jobs but will also help control immigration.

Speaking to the House of Commons Chris Philp, a Home Office Minister responsible for immigration spoke of how valid asylum seekers will still be looked after, but explained that the new site is needed. Philip explained that, “When people have valid asylum claims, we should of course look after them, but when they do not, we should ensure that they leave.

“It will create local jobs, and only people with no right to stay in the country will be there.”

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Islamic Commission Arrest THE National Police have arrested Mohamad Ayman Adlbi, the president of the Islamic Commission of Spain (CIE), the highest of‐ ficial Islam organisation in the country, in a move against terrorist activity.

In addition to Ayman Adl‐

bi, two others have also been arrested, accused with the alleged financing of international jihadist activities.

According to the General Information Commissariat of the National Police, the arrested men are accused

of belonging to a criminal organisation, collaboration with a terrorist organisa‐ tion, terrorist financing, money laundering, tax fraud, document falsifica‐ t i o n a n d i l l e g a l i m m i g r a‐ tion.

The arrests follow on from the 2019 Wamor op‐ eration, when a large net‐ work dedicated to sending funds to Syria and other conflict zones was disman‐ tled.

The bulk of the operation centred around a Syrian family living in Madrid, which set up several busi‐ nesses to clandestinely channel money abroad.

NEWS

BBC TV New series

TV series Smoking Gun - A Murder Mystery hopes to film in Almeria’s Tabernas Desert this June.

The New Street Pictures show created by former BBC executive Sutish Sharma, has now begun filming again after the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic resulted in a near year-long halt to production.

The show’s producers have asked the Spanish government to allow them to film from June 1 to June 14 in Almeria’s Tabernas Desert. The show aims to use the Tabernas Desert as a backdrop for a military loca-

tion. If approved, the desert will be used to shoot scenes for the show’s headquarters of the Nicaraguan Counter-

revolutionary Armies.

The show is based around an FBI investigation and is set during the 1980s.

Easter Troops THE Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that an additional 64,200 troops, consisting of both National Police and Guardia Civil officers, will be deployed throughout Spain to ensure compliance with the perimeter restrictions over Holy Week. The head of the department, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, announced the measures at a meeting of the Interterritorial Council on Wednesday, March 24, adding that some 9,539 sanctions were handed out to travellers over the San Juan Bridge.

The restrictions, which remain in place until April 9, mean that people will not be permitted to travel outside their autonomous communities, except for essential reasons. The minister warned all drivers ahead of Holy Week that an abundance of officers will be patrolling borders to “ensure the effectiveness” of the control measures.

Lockdown Decision mistake

GERMAN Chancellor, Angela Merkel, on Monday March 22, after overnight talks with regional leaders, had pro‐ posed a full lockdown in Germany over Easter, between April 1 and 5.

This would have been the country’s strictest lock‐ down yet, seeing all shops closed, social contact having to be limited, large gatherings limited, and Germans told to stay at home, a move that had been criticised nation‐ wide by scientists and business leaders.

Following a crisis meeting among officials last

Wednesday March 24, the decision has been reversed, with Mrs Merkel calling the plan a “mistake”, and taking the “ultimate responsibility” for the U‐turn.

Armin Laschet, the head of Mrs Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, told a regional parliament meeting on Wednes‐ day that the lockdown was “not enforce‐ able in this form” while, in Berlin, Angela Merkel told reporters, “This mistake is mine alone.”

MERKEL: My mistake alone.

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Migrant Shipwreck TWO illegal immigrants have lost their lives, nine re‐ main missing and three have been rescued after a dinghy they were travelling in capsized just 300 me‐ tres from the coast of Percheles in the municipality of Mazarron in Murcia on Saturday night, March 27.

The Maritime Rescue and Guardia Civil launched a search involving several boats along with two heli‐ copters in an attempt to locate survivors. The three

migrants who were rescued, all of Algerian national‐ ity, were immediately transferred to health centres for treatment. In recent days, a total of 185 Algerian immigrants have arrived on the coast of the region of Murcia in various boats. Emergency personnel believe that the shipwreck was caused by rough seas and strong winds that battered the Murcian coast after several days of settled weather.

NEWS

Norwegian Will Continue Its Malaga Base SCANDINAVIAN flight operator Norwegian has confirmed that it will be continuing with its opera‐ tional base at Malaga airport, af‐ ter finalising the design of the structure of its short‐haul opera‐ tions in Spain for the post‐Covid recovery period.

Depending on the outcome of the Spanish government’s lifting of travel restrictions, the airline is planning to have one of their Boe‐ ing 737 aircraft and its respective crew based at Malaga during the 2021 summer and winter aero‐ nautical seasons, with a view to increasing this to three aircraft for summer 2022.

A spokesman for Norwegian said the base at Malaga airport “is important since, with it, a volume of operations is guaranteed at the

NORWEGIAN: Now planning for the post-Covid period.

Malaga‐Costa del Sol airport.”

Norwegian will only continue with operational bases in the Nordic countries, and Spain, com‐ menting, “The company is there‐ fore fully committed to maintain‐ ing its presence in Spain, a country where it has been oper‐ ating continuously since 2003,” and also confirmed a similar plan for Alicante airport.

Ill Puppies OFFICERS from the Guardia Civil arrested five people on suspicion of selling ill pup‐ pies in Castilla‐La Mancha.

The gang have been charged with the crimes of animal abuse, document fal‐ sification, fraud and belong‐ ing to a criminal organisa‐ tion.

According to police, the puppies fell ill with par‐ vovirus within days of their sale, many of them dying shortly after.

Police say they received around 35 complaints from people buying the ill dogs with the first complaint re‐ ceived at the end of 2019, when police discovered the existence of several shops specialised in the sale of puppies, many of them sick with parvovirus.

After that, the Nature Protection Service (Seprona) of the Guardia Civil began an investigation in which they found that the organisation was engaged in the pur‐ chase and sale of puppies who had not been given the correct health treatment.

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Creating 1.7 Million Green Jobs Covid Test Providers Boris could create jobs.

ACCORDING to experts, Boris Johnson could create a further 1.7 million jobs with his planned green revolution.

The Onward think tank says the prime minister could create the new jobs due to the demand for renewable energy and lowcarbon tech in their report on ‘greening the giants.’

They also called on Boris Johnson to take action over 12 of Britain’s most dirty industries.

The ‘carbon giant’ sectors, which include aviation, manufacturing and consultation, cause nearly two-thirds of UK carbon emissions.

The report also called on the prime minister to use the success of the vaccine rollout to establish a new Net Zero Delivery Taskforce which would oversee major government trials of green tech and help the economic recovery.

The experts said more jobs can also be created in low-emission energy and electric vehicles as Britain works to reach its green goals, which could generate over £330 billion (€285 billion) in additional economic value by 2030.

COVID-19 test provider Collinson has announced it is expanding its operations with the launch of a drive‐through testing facility in APH’s long‐stay car park located near Gatwick airport. The compa‐ ny said it will also increase testing capabilities with in‐terminal facil‐ ities at Luton airport next month, adding to its existing drive‐ through offering.

This follows the announcement last week of the drive‐through and walk‐in centres at the O2 Arena’s car park. Collinson already has testing operations supporting all major hubs in England includ‐ ing Heathrow, Manchester, Stansted, London City and East Mid‐ lands airports. David Evans, joint chief executive at Collinson, said: “Our ongoing work with the aviation and travel industry, coupled with our investment in creating the most flexible, convenient test‐ ing processes for passengers coming in and out of the UK, goes hand in hand with our commitment to helping the travel industry recover.

Baby Boom

GRANADA City offers a unique cash incentive to prospective parents in a bid to increase the population A municipality on Granada has come up with a unique initia‐ tive to try and increase its ageing population by offering a cash incentive to people who give birth or adopt a child. Cuevas del Campo has just over 1,700 residents and only one in ten is un‐ der the age of 14, while three in ten are aged over 75. In an at‐ tempt to avoid the further depopulation of the area, which un‐ fortunately continues to occur in many other regions in Granada, the City Council has decided to encourage population growth by offering a payment of €500 for each birth or adop‐ tion in the municipality.

NEWS

TUI And Jet2 Steam Ahead

THE UK’s two biggest tour op‐ erators, Jet2 and TUI, have said that they are going ahead with plans to restart holidays abroad on May 17, despite huge uncertainty over whether British trav‐ ellers will be free to avail of the flights. TUI, the UK’s largest tour operator, insisted “holidays this summer will be possible,” but both compa‐ nies said they will wait for the situation to be clarified by the UK government’s Global Travel Taskforce on April 12.

On Tuesday, March 23, Spain’s Minister of Finance, María Jesús Montero, an‐ nounced that travel restric‐ tions on UK tourists would be eased; however, the news was dampened by the UK government’s announce‐ ment of the intention to in‐ troduce a law on March 29 which includes a ban on any‐ one leaving the UK without a ‘reasonable excuse,’ and the risk of a £5,000 (€5,805) fine for flouting the new rules.

NEWS

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Mauled By Five Dogs Future health threats A 65-YEAR-OLD man from Tavernes Blanques suffered serious injuries when he was attacked by five dogs while taking a walk on a quiet country road in Valencia, and was saved from a worse outcome by a quickthinking cyclist. According to Spanish daily Informacion, the gentleman was making his way to his mother-in-law’s house for lunch along the road to l’Alqueria el Grande, which he does every day, when he was set upon by the five animals.

“I saw five large dogs approaching,” the distressed victim recalled. “I thought they would pass by but when they were three or four metres away they began to bark at me and they surrounded me,” he said. They then began to close in, biting at his legs.

“I tried to get rid of them, I tried to move but it was impossible. When one of them moved away, another one bit me and another pounced. They were savages,” he said.

Although the road he was walking on is a popular route for hikers and cyclists, the lane was deserted and the retiree feared the worst.

“I tried to avoid falling because I knew if I did they would kill me. I saw death up close,” the traumatised victim recalls.

Right at the critical moment, a cyclist happened along and began kicking out at the dogs scaring them away. He then called an ambulance which transferred the man to hospital.

According to the victim, the owners of the dogs are now being investigated and he has received support from dozens of locals online, many of whom claim to have been attacked by the very same dogs. The man’s family is trying to locate the cyclist, who they believe saved the man’s life.

“Thank you very much, angel saviour. We would like to meet you. Also to the people who stayed with me for an hour or so until the ambulance arrived. Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart,” he said.

A NEW UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to plan for, prevent and respond to external health threats such as infectious dis‐ eases, such as Covid, was announced by the govern‐ ment on Thursday, March 25.

Deputy Chief Medical Of‐ ficer, Dr Jenny Harries, will become Chief Executive of

Ryanair Masks RYANAIR boss claims masks will remain compulsory on flights until 2022.

Irish airline giant Ryanair announced on Wednesday, March 24, that masks are here to stay, at least until next year.

Chief Michael O’Leary said that as the company gears up to a bumper summer flight schedule with 2,300 additional trips planned, the airline will continue to require all passengers to wear masks until at least 2022.

His comments come after the airline announced a big expan‐ sion to its summer schedule, with 26 new routes available to and from the UK with more flights to tourist destinations including Rhodes, Crete, Ibiza, Milan and Alicante.

To celebrate their new routes, the airline has announced a sale which includes fares from £19.99 (€23.17) each way this sum‐ mer.

the ‘mission‐driven body to harness the UK’s public health protection, science, intelligence, testing and delivery expertise.’

The UKHSA ‐ previously the National Institute for Health Protection ‐ will be

the UK leader for health se‐ curity, providing intellectu‐ al, scientific and opera‐ tional leadership at national and local level, as well as on the global stage, said the government in a statement.

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NEWS

Twenty-eight people arrested A CRIMINAL organisation specialising in the theft, modification and distribution of vehicles has been dismantled in a joint operation between Guardia Civil and National Police.

In an operation codenamed Eleanor-Tejar, 28 people have been arrested and 22 vehicles have been recovered in Madrid, Toledo and Gijon.

Around €20,000 in cash, a pistol, ammunition, taser guns, diagnostic machines, switchboards, speedometers, licence plates, hashish and cocaine have also been seized.

Organisation dismantled.

The investigation began in August of last year after the theft of a vehicle in the Madrid town of Alcobendas.

In October last year another

Bizarre New Covid Nose Mask

SCIENTISTS in Mexico have created a new nose‐only mask de‐ signed for people to protect themselves from Covid‐19 while they eat and drink. Like most face masks, the so‐called ‘eating mask’ has two straps to fasten behind each ear but covers just the nose.

Some observers cheered the idea on Twitter, saying it would “reduce transmission,” while others poked fun at its goofy look.

“Hardly a new invention, clowns have been wearing them for years,” one user posted along with a photo of a bright red clown nose. Human cells that give people a sense of smell are a key en‐ try point for coronavirus, making nose coverings important, ac‐ cording to Johns Hopkins University.

vehicle theft with a similar modus operandi was perpetrated at a dealership in Tres Cantos, leading police to believe that they were linked and to launch an investigation into other similar crimes which could have been perpetrated by the same gang.

Another branch of the organisation transferred the stolen vehicles to a warehouse in Arganda del Rey, to carry out the so-called ‘twin’ method, which consists of placing chassis numbers on the stolen cars taken from others exactly the same which they acquired in a scrap yard.

Yet another branch would sell the chopped vehicles. They would also advertise the cars for sale on internet sites using false data and front men for the sales.

Police report that they also orchestrated insurance scams reporting the theft of vehicles that they later chopped and sold.

They had state-of-the-art technological equipment and people with extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive world.

NEWS

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Heroic Save of Boy OFF-DUTY firefighter Russ Jones, aged 24, has been praised by the West Midlands Fire service for his ‘swift and selfless actions’ which saved a young boy’s life.

Russell had been off duty on Thursday, March 18 but when a Birmingham house caught fire on Farren Road in Northfield, he did everything he could do to help.

Moroccans may go home this summer THE Moroccan government has told Spain that it intends to welcome back its citizens living abroad this summer.

Last year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the operation, known as ‘Paso del Estrecho’ (Crossing the Strait) in Spain and ‘Operation Marhaba’ (Welcome Operation) in Morocco, did not take place. It was cancelled by Morocco, which has had its borders closed to passengers for a year, allowing only goods to enter.

In the summer of 2019, when the operation (OPE) took place as normal, more than three million Moroccans returned to their homeland to spend the summer holidays, travelling through Spain and leaving mainly from Algeciras and Tarifa in Cadiz, as well as other ports in the south of Spain.

According to the Moroccan press, citing Assahifa Arabic, have reported that the Moroccan government has transmitted their plans to the Spanish government, although, of course, it will ultimately depend on the epidemiological situation.

Being off-duty firefighter Russ did not have any of his firefighting equipment, but after hearing screams coming from the property he knew he had to save the young boy, of only four years old, that he knew to be trapped in the property.

Speaking of the young boy trapped in the fire Russ explained that, “As soon as I saw the fire and was told a young child was missing in the property, I had to do something.

The fire was too intense upstairs and because I could hear the screams I knew the boy had to be on the ground floor.

Russ has been praised by the West Midlands Fire service and Marc Hudson Group Commander said, “The swift and selfless actions of Firefighter Jones represent the very best of West Midlands Fire Service.

“We’re very proud of Russ for saving the young boy’s life, had he not acted so quickly and professionally, this incident may have ended in tragedy.”

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Sánchez Visits ‘Supercomputer’ PEDRO SÁNCHEZ, the President of the Spanish government, on Thursday March 25, attended the headquarters of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), to visit the new supercomputer ‘Cirrus’ and the National Prediction Centre, where he chaired the meteorological and coordination briefing, and met with key members from the units that make up the SNP. ‘Cirrus’ will be the second most powerful supercomputer in Spain, only surpassed by the MareNostrum of the National Supercomputing Centre of Barcelona, and will be operational in May. Cirrus will be the ‘brain’ of AEMET, and be the information base of its weather predictions, and in addition to making meteorological predictions with the use of prediction models, the computer has been fed with all of the climatological data from the last 125 years.

The computing power of ‘Cirrus’ is such that it makes it possible to generate much faster weather predictions, which is essential for providing advance warnings of adverse weather

events, aiding air navigation for the likes of AENA and ENAIRE, with air traffic control, plus services for Defence, among others, in addition to the new climate services and early warning services established in the National Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change (PNACC).

CIRRUS: Will be operational in May.

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NEWS

An update for UK Nationals FROM January 1, UK Nationals have been able to spend 90 days out of every 180 within the Schengen area for tourism or other specific purposes, such as business meetings, without needing a

visa. Any stays beyond the 90 days will be dependent on Spain’s visa and immigration rules and any UK Nationals who would like to discuss extending their stay should contact their local extran-

jería office or call 060.

All foreign nationals intending to stay in Spain for longer than three months have always been obliged to register for residency whatever their nationality. There-

fore if you arrived in Spain before January 1, you must take steps to become resident if you consider your home to be here.

Otherwise, you should be arranging to return to the UK. If you are trying to become resident and are in the process of registering or appealing against your application having been rejected, the 90-day rule does not apply to you.

HMA Hugh Elliott said: “I’m aware that many second home owners are concerned about overstaying as we reach March 31.

“The Spanish Government has been clear that it will take a pragmatic approach to anyone who is stuck in Spain due to circumstances beyond their control, so I don’t want people to be overly worried on that count. However, if people do not intend to become resident here in Spain and see the UK as their base, we do expect them to take steps to return to the UK as soon as they can.”

A Spanish Ministry of Inclusion spokesperson said: “The Spanish Government is working to provide maximum legal certainty for British citizens resident in Spain.

Throughout the negotiations, the issue of citizens’ rights has been, and remains, one of the main priorities. Spain is the country of residence of the largest community of UK nationals in the EU. “The Spanish Government has no plans to deport British citizens who have made Spain their home and, for this reason, Spain has been one of the first EU countries to establish a documentation pro-

DEAL DONE: Boris Johnson with Jean-Claude Juncker. cedure under the Withdrawal Agreement, which consists of a declaratory system to apply for the new residence permit (TIE). We remind British citizens that, although there is no time limit, it is important to make this application as soon as possible as, among other things, it will facilitate the administrative processing and the crossing of the external borders of the European Union.”

If you are in the UK and considering travelling to Spain or are in Spain and have friends or family wanting to visit, you should be aware of the continuing travel restrictions on both leaving the UK and entering Spain. UK Nationals must make sure that they meet both the requirements to leave the UK and those to enter Spain, bearing in mind that they are not the same. From March 30, entry to Spain will only be granted to those passengers who can demonstrate that their journey is essential, as well as to those who are already legally resident in

Spain. Entering merely to visit, even if you have a second home here, is not a justified reason for entry. You may be questioned on arrival by Spanish border authorities to ensure you meet the entry requirements and they will only grant entry if they are satisfied that your journey to Spain is essential and reserve the right to deny passage.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to grant entry into Spain is made by Spanish border officials as set out in our Travel Advice. For the latest information and links to the restrictions on leaving the UK and entering Spain, we advise people to visit our Travel Advice page on gov.uk and sign up for alerts, so that they are notified of any changes: https://www.gov.uk/ foreign-travel-advice/spain.

NEWS

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Extra Police at Easter MOVING AROUND: Is going to be restricted over Easter.

Fallas Buildings Reopen FALLAS house and festival buildings were given the go-ahead to reopen from Monday, March 29. According to the Official Gazette of the Generalitat Valenciana, they will be open between 10am and 1pm, and again from 4pm to 8pm, ‘to carry out management and administration’ only with a maximum of four people allowed in the buildings. The Gazette highlights that ‘in no case will they be open to the public.’

At a meeting between the Fallas representatives and Ana Barcelo, the minister assured that the Valencian Community will get to enjoy festivals and celebrations, most likely by July, once a good proportion of the population has been vaccinated against Covid.

“They are all for having parties. It is not in our hands or theirs, but there is a commitment that if the health situation makes it possible, they will be celebrated. The crux of the matter is vaccination. There is no other. But it is worth waiting a little longer and not be disappointed any more. They have told us clearly: if there is no strange strain, because a virus does not have a roadmap, and everything is normal, they assume that celebrations will resume.”

THE general director of the Guardia Civil, María Gámez, has affirmed that she is going to make 40,000 officers available to enforce the mobility limitations over the Easter period.

During Holy Week, Andalucia has almost 50 municipalities confined to their perimeters because they exceed the cumulative incidence of 500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Of these, 14 have a rate higher than 1,000 cases and the Board could decree the closure of all non-essential activities throughout the day, from Friday, March 26 to Saturday, April 3.

The Junta de Andalucia recently extended the restrictions on mobility, capacity and commercial and hospitality hours from 00.00 hours on Friday, March 26, until 00.00 on Saturday, April 3.

The current restrictions prevent travel between the Andalucian provinces and establish the closure of shops and hotels at 10.30pm in all municipalities.

The curfew is set between 23.00 and 06.00 with meetings limited to six people in the private and public areas, as long as they are outdoors.

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NEWS

No jab, no drink

THE UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, appeared on Wednesday March 24 in front of the Liaison Commit‐ tee of senior MPs, and made the suggestion that some pubs could ban unvaccinated drinkers this summer, but

added, “I think that’s the kind of thing that may be up to individual publicans, it may be up to the landlord.”

He added, “there is a huge wisdom in the public’s feel‐ ing about coronavirus, and humans instinctively recog‐

Suez Canal Shipping Jam

THE stranded 200,000 tonne container ship blocking the Suez Canal is going to hit Spanish pockets hard, according to Jordi Espin Vallbona, Secretary General of Transprime and policy manager for maritime transport at the European Shippers’ Council. Around 12 per cent of the world’s freight and oil tanker traffic passes through the canal, and the jam will result in Spanish imports and exports having to take a more cir‐ cuitous route, a cost which is sure to be passed on to the con‐ sumer.

As freighters cannot pass through the canal at the moment, they will have to go around the Cape of Good Hope, at the southern tip of Africa, to reach European ports. This detour will extend travel by a week, naturally costing more in fuel and man hours, something that shipping companies are bound to pass on to their European customers, according to Mr Espin.

nise when something is dan‐ gerous.”

Mr Johnson stressed that the government would not enforce such a policy but that landlords of individual establishments might wish to do so, with British pubs cur‐ rently lined up for reopening on April 12 at the earliest, under the lockdown road‐ map, but only allowed to serve customers outdoors.

If data shows good results then from May 17, indoor hospitality will be allowed to open up, and from June 21, again if figures are good, all legal limits on social contact should most likely be re‐ moved He continued, “As soon as people feel it is safe, you will see a miraculous change in the mood and what hap‐ pens. That is what this is all about. We’re getting there step by step, jab by jab ‐ we’re not there yet, but I’ll be saying more on April 5 and then on April 12, and we will do what we can!”

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EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPEAN NIBS DENMARK

FRANCE

Working hours

Space wine

ACCORDING to a report prepared by UK healthcare software provider Vantage Technologies, Denmark has the shortest working week amongst all European Union countries at 37.8 hours and 36 days annual leave with Spain clocking in at 40.4 hours and the UK 42.3 hours.

RESEARCHERS in Bordeaux have been given the job of tasting and analysing wine that spent a year on the International Space Station and one bonus is that there were 12 bottles of the legendary Petrus Pomerol each of which sells for several thousand euros.

NETHERLANDS Hacked off

NORWAY Silent engines

HACKERS are offering for sale 7.3 million names, addresses and telephone numbers which they claim were taken from the data base of Dutch IT company RDS which runs a service to garages allowing them to remind drivers that they are due for a check-up.

THE Norwegian Government has decided that Bergen Engines (owned by Rolls Royce) may not sell its silent engines to a Russian company (whose owners have links to Vladimir Putin) as national security interests may be compromised since the engines are in use by the Norwegian Navy.

BELGIUM

FINLAND

Name calling

Crossing borders

A FLEMISH couple (who speak Dutch) were initially told by a registration official in Brussels that they couldn’t call their child Hannes which is short for Johannes because it sounded too much like French word ânesse the name for a female donkey.

DESPITE the fact that the Finnish government has tightened entry restrictions there is still significant traffic from Estonia with some 10,600 visitors arriving at the port of Helsinki in one week alone, all mainly cross border workers, with just 64 passengers refused entry.

GERMANY Citizenship ALTHOUGH Germany has made it easier for the descendants of Jews who fled Nazi Germany to gain citizenship, there were still loopholes in the law which will now be changed as a symbolic gesture of apology to those who may have been refused in the past.

SWEDEN Emission fees IN the same way that some electric cars pay less road tax, the Swedish Government has decided that aircraft landing and taking off from Stockholm and Gothenburg airports will be charged fees based on their emissions, so the greener the fuel, the lower the charge.

FINANCE Equal pay SOME 42,000 staff at ASDA have moved another step forward in what could be a long legal battle as the UK Supreme Court ruled that store workers (who are mainly women) should be entitled to compare themselves to distribution staff (mainly men) for equal pay purposes.

Production down ALTHOUGH there are considerably more home deliveries across the world, UK commercial vehicle production fell 45.4 per cent in February, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders due to parts shortages, new customs processes and international lockdown measures which have made production difficult.

Greater spend THE Spanish Social Security Department allocated a record figure of €10.119 billion to the payment of contributory pensions for March 2021 which is 2.4 per cent more than in the same month of 2020, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration.

Meal box IF you have ever wondered what it would be like to enjoy the luxury of a first class meal on a British Airways intercontinental flight, now is the time to find out as the airline is offering £80 (€90) meal boxes for two to cook at home.

Price cuts AS Carrefour in Spain starts work on assimilating the recent Supersol takeover into its family, it has also announced further price cuts as the competition with other supermarkets intensifies. Some 1,000 own products have been reduced in price and a further 600 in a mix between own products and national brands have been repriced at 99c. The supermarket chain has identified the most popular products with customers and has also reduced the amount of sugar, saturated fat and salt added to 380 of its own brand products.

STAT OF WEEK

www.euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 April 2021

€2 billion

is the latest market valuation for Glovo, the Spanish start-up which competes with Deliveroo and Uber Eats in the fast food delivery market.

Spanish support schemes

New low-cost airline ONE of the founders of the now partially bankrupt Norwegian Air, Bjørn Kjos is looking to return to the cheap intercontinental air‐ line market.

The 74‐year‐old retired as CEO of Norwegian two years ago, but could now benefit from its demise as he is talking about leasing 12 of the Norwegian Air Boeing 787 Dreamliners which were purchased dur‐ ing his tenure.

He wants to create Norse Atlantic Airways with an initial investment of 1.5 bil‐ lion Norwegian Krone (€147.6 million) working with former colleagues in‐ cluding Espen Høiby, a for‐ mer SAS pilot and brother of Crown Princess Mette‐ Marit.

He told NRK “We’ll start with 12 of Norwegian’s for‐ mer Dreamliners. The dif‐ ference between us and Norwegian is that we don’t

LEGALLY SPEAKING

have any debt, and we can get the aircraft for half‐ price.”

In the meantime, credi‐ tors of Norwegian including more than 30,000 passen‐ gers as well as former staff are left unpaid due to the bankruptcy protection granted to the airline in Ire‐ land and Norway.

Some critics argue that it was the speed in which Kjos grew the airline and the massive purchase of

aircraft which it couldn’t re‐ ally afford that spelled doom for Norwegian which was suffering financially even before the advent of the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Time will tell whether there is going to be a viable market for transatlantic travel in the near future, al‐ though Norse Atlantic Air‐ ways hope to float on the Norwegian stock market within a month or so and start flights in December.

Suppliers slashed

Clean Cars Get Stickers

Credit: Boohoo.com

BUSINESS EXTRA

28

Various readers have inquired about ob‐ taining ‘ecological stickers’ for their cars of low carbon emissions. One reader was told that the stickers were already being sent out as early as 2017 and he wonders if he will get one.

In theory he should receive his sticker YOU AND THE LAW in the post be‐ IN SPAIN cause the DGT, the traffic department, already has access to all of the vehicles’ data on the In‐ ternet. The ‘Cero Emisiones’ sticker is dark blue with a big black Zero on it and it applies to all‐electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles that can plug into chargers and some others. The next level is green and blue and is called ‘Eco’. It includes vehicles driven by natural gas and some battery‐run. The ‘C’ sticker is green and is issued to gasoline‐powered vehicles registered after January 1, 2006, and diesels registered from 2014.

The ‘B’ sticker is yellow and is issued to gasoline‐driv‐ en vehicles registered after 2000 and diesels after 2006.

The easiest way for you to speed up the process is to go with your car papers to the post office and order a stick‐ er. This will cost you €5.

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.

SPANISH supermarket group DIA announced on Thursday March 25 that it has agreed to convert debt owed to its main shareholder LetterOne in‐ to equity.

It intends to offer new shares to existing share‐ holders worth €1.028 bil‐ lion of which the bulk will

ONLINE: Fashion aimed at those aged 16 to 30.

THE value of shares in online UK fashion retailer Boohoo dropped dramatically in the second half of 2020 after The Sunday Times accused it of buying goods from companies which didn’t pay the minimum wage.

Similar accusations followed from other newspapers and on social media which prompt‐ ed the company to completely review its supply line and con‐ sider opening its own factory.

The company which also owns a number of other on‐ line retailers such as Pretty Lit‐ tle Things recently purchased a number of labels including Burtons, Debenhams and Dorothy Perkins following the

demise of Arcadia.

A review of the working conditions of its network of factories, some of which were alleged to pay staff just £3.50 (€4) an hour has resulted in a decision to drastically reduce its suppliers from an estimated 500 to just 78, the majority of which operate out of Leicester.

The report which was pre‐ pared under the guidance of a barrister revealed that some of the top people at the company were aware of the problems before they were reported in the press and had also used the opportunity of lockdown to benefit financially from the opportunities arising out of lockdown.

DIA supermarket equity be converted from the debt of €769 million it owes to Luxembourg based LetterOne which is owned by Russian billion‐ aire Mikhail Fridman.

The balance of shares

valued at €269 million will be offered to other shareholders and replaces an earlier plan to convert just €500 million of debt to equity.

The supermarket chain

continues to operate at a significant loss although its 2020 figures showed that the loss more than halved compared to the previous year at €364 mil‐ lion thanks to a signifi‐

THE European Commission has agreed three existing Spanish schemes to support the econo‐ my following the coronavirus outbreak to be in line with the State Aid Temporary Frame‐ work.

Executive Vice‐President Mar‐ grethe Vestager, who is in charge of competition policy, said, “The amendments we have approved today will help Spanish companies preserve economic activity in these diffi‐ cult times by adapting and en‐ hancing existing Spanish schemes already in force.

“We continue to work in close cooperation with Member States to find workable solutions to mitigate the economic impact of the Coronavirus outbreak, in line with EU rules.”

Canadian contract ITP Aero, a Spanish sub‐ sidiary of Rolls Royce En‐ gines will provide mainte‐ nance services for Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW814 and PW815 engines.

It will become the exclu‐ sive provider of a range of services and this is the first time that it has obtained such a contract in the civil field and work will be car‐ ried out at its Madrid facili‐ ties.

Having experienced fi‐ nancial setbacks, like many other companies in the avi‐ ation industry, due to Covid‐19 and huge reduc‐ tions in flights and sales of engines, this is welcome news. cant increase in purchases during the State of Alarm.

It now hopes with a sig‐ nificant reduction in debt and with the support of its shareholders that it can follow its roadmap to return to profitability, es‐ pecially as it now has no significant debt repay‐ ments due until 2025.

30 EWN

www.euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 April 2021

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

LONDON - FTSE 100

See our advert on previous page

C LOSING P RICES M ARCH 29

COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) 3I Group 1.175,00 1.175,00 Admiral Group 3.018,0 3.051,0 Anglo American 2.815,5 2.836,0 Antofagasta 1.667,50 1.685,00 Ashtead Group 4.317,0 4.334,0 Associated British Foods 2.406,0 2.406,0 AstraZeneca 7.298,0 7.299,7 Auto Trader Group Plc 568,60 569,20 Avast 468,00 468,00 Aveva 3.434,0 3.437,0 Aviva 400,50 401,60 B&M European Value Retail SA539,00 540,60 BAE Systems 497,80 497,80 Bank VTB DRC 0,970 0,975 Barclays 180,04 182,08 Barratt Developments 766,46 767,42 Berkeley 4.449,5 4.452,0 BHP Group 2.091,00 2.093,00 BP 299,24 301,60 British American Tobacco 2.812,5 2.813,0 British Land Company 511,60 512,60 BT Group 150,59 152,10 Bunzl 2.308,0 2.308,0 Burberry Group 1.904,0 1.905,5 Carnival 1.569,5 1.595,1 Centrica 51,60 52,16 Coca Cola HBC AG 2.330,0 2.330,0 Compass 1.469,30 1.478,20 CRH 3.350,0 3.353,0 Croda Intl 6.420,0 6.420,0 DCC 6.514,0 6.524,0 Diageo 3.005,5 3.007,5 DS Smith 410,94 411,94 EasyJet 948,47 962,02 Experian 2.516,0 2.516,0 Ferguson 8.840,0 8.850,0 Flutter Entertainment 16.395,0 16.525,0 Fresnillo 912,20 916,80 GlaxoSmithKline 1.300,74 1.304,32 Glencore 282,54 284,99 Halma 2.397,0 2.397,0 Hargreaves Lansdown 1.540,14 1.540,14 Hikma Pharma 2.239,00 2.239,00 HSBC 420,45 421,90 IAG 194,05 196,32 Imperial Brands 1.506,50 1.508,00 Informa 565,20 565,80 InterContinental 4.946,0 4.961,0 Intermediate Capital 1.880,00 1.880,00 Intertek 5.658,0 5.658,0 ITV 126,84 127,80

% CHG. 1.169,00 2.998,0 2.814,5 1.664,00 4.310,0 2.390,2 7.282,0 560,60 458,00 3.407,0 400,10 539,00 496,10 0,970 180,00 761,40 4.436,4 2.081,00 298,87 2.786,7 510,00 149,10 2.303,0 1.890,6 1.569,5 51,56 2.305,0 1.469,30 3.339,0 6.380,3 6.478,0 2.987,5 408,78 948,11 2.495,0 8.792,0 16.385,0 902,80 1.299,40 282,41 2.383,0 1.524,70 2.223,00 420,31 193,49 1.494,00 563,80 4.922,0 1.880,00 5.608,0 126,53

NET VOL 13,05K 1,91K 52,47K 10,20K 19,66K 0,87K 5,04K 12,49K 9,00K 2,79K 88,65K 9,12K 10,63K 10,54K 2,33M 7,23K 2,69K 83,00K 209,23K 3,04K 10,41K 1,37M 5,58K 8,92K 3,98K 120,86K 7,69K 2,21K 27,22K 0,75K 1,70K 56,12K 30,42K 42,33K 27,73K 4,99K 4,44K 5,50K 20,71K 186,09K 3,19K 3,74K 3,22K 20,80K 303,84K 20,03K 19,38K 3,98K 0,04K 2,11K 33,52K

COMPANY

PRICE(P)

J Sainsbury Johnson Matthey Land Securities Legal & General Lloyds Banking London Stock Exchange Meggitt Melrose Industries Mondi National Grid NatWest Group Next Norilskiy Nikel ADR Ocado Persimmon Phoenix Prudential Reckitt Benckiser Relx Rentokil Rightmove Rio Tinto PLC Rolls-Royce Holdings Rosneft DRC Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell B RSA Insurance Sage Samsung Electronics DRC Sberbank Schroders Scottish Mortgage Segro Severn Trent Smith & Nephew Smiths Group Spirax-Sarco Engineering SSE St. James’s Place Standard Chartered Standard Life Aberdeen Taylor Wimpey Tesco Tui Unilever United Utilities Vodafone Group PLC Whitbread WPP

245,50 3.046,5 703,20 277,80 41,96 7.122,0 469,90 167,65 1.917,50 867,60 190,45 7.914,0 29,62 2.117,39 2.990,4 732,80 1.555,50 6.460,0 1.836,00 495,40 596,86 5.554,0 105,50 7,59 1.441,0 1.440,75 1.371,0 682,00 613,20 1.806,00 15,31 3.460,0 1.129,40 941,20 2.325,0 1.371,00 1.557,00 11.590,0 1.448,50 1.267,00 499,40 290,00 182,32 228,98 352,20 4.081,0 918,60 132,52 3.420,0 928,40

CHANGE(P)

% CHG.

NET VOL

246,00 3.046,5 706,50 278,45 42,13 7.162,0 482,50 168,05 1.917,50 867,60 191,65 7.932,0 29,65 2.123,00 2.995,5 734,00 1.562,00 6.460,0 1.836,00 497,80 598,36 5.555,0 106,94 7,60 1.450,6 1.446,40 1.374,6 682,80 613,20 1.812,00 15,38 3.460,0 1.134,79 941,20 2.325,0 1.371,00 1.568,00 11.605,0 1.449,59 1.267,00 499,77 290,00 182,68 230,06 358,90 4.081,0 918,60 133,98 3.450,0 929,00

244,30 3.030,6 699,80 276,50 41,80 7.088,0 469,90 167,45 1.912,93 860,60 190,25 7.900,0 29,20 2.087,14 2.964,2 730,80 1.554,50 6.416,0 1.813,50 493,30 593,34 5.522,0 105,50 7,59 1.439,8 1.440,20 1.368,8 681,80 611,40 1.799,00 15,28 3.446,0 1.113,11 934,63 2.288,0 1.359,69 1.552,50 11.515,0 1.438,50 1.260,00 498,90 285,40 180,93 228,74 351,80 4.048,0 909,40 132,32 3.420,0 925,00

53,09K 0,27K 13,57K 79,45K 2,77M 27,94K 4,24K 37,50K 0,70K 105,62K 274,36K 1,03K 66,18K 6,22K 4,63K 17,59K 130,03K 24,54K 232,66K 85,88K 2,24K 4,92K 453,68K 3,07K 309,35K 4,02K 35,72K 245,90K 4,26K 0,88K 57,04K 3,07K 100,79K 5,12K 8,76K 5,17K 14,72K 1,28K 9,92K 1,06K 19,06K 24,60K 146,38K 133,15K 306,54K 14,05K 42,85K 3,18M 3,85K 31,91K

0.85546

1.16799 Units per €

US dollar (USD) ......................................1.17865 Japan yen (JPY)......................................129.147 Switzerland franc (CHF) ...........................1.1065 Denmark kroner (DKK) .............................7.4361 Norway kroner (NOK) ...............................10.112

currenciesdirect.com/la-zenia • Tel: +34 965 994 830 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES M ARCH 29

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 194,88 2.035,55 3.052,03 252,86 121,21 244,87 229,50 107,48 52,57 53,04 283,02 327,39 303,81 218,53 136,38 64,87 164,93 155,09 225,21 77,39 236,48 132,99 135,45 209,09 618,71 376,48 58,18 213,53 135,13 185,92

CHANGE 194,95 2.050,99 3.056,66 253,28 121,48 250,90 229,84 107,54 52,64 53,11 284,50 335,45 304,00 218,69 136,48 64,97 165,10 155,45 225,28 77,47 236,71 133,19 135,61 209,41 643,82 377,06 58,25 213,70 135,20 188,98

CHANGE% VOLUME(M) 192,21 2,68M 2.014,02 1,49M 2.996,00 3,31M 245,54 2,64M 118,92 94,07M 240,30 17,16M 225,21 3,04M 105,36 9,82M 50,56 32,00M 51,76 17,13M 277,77 17,63M 322,69 3,08M 296,03 5,87M 214,14 2,54M 133,12 5,57M 61,77 34,71M 161,38 7,62M 152,55 16,75M 222,42 3,26M 75,85 9,91M 231,55 25,48M 129,77 10,01M 132,48 10,82M 204,77 7,33M 599,89 33,85M 370,29 2,96M 57,38 19,63M 207,70 7,40M 133,42 9,55M 182,57 10,20M M - MILLION DOLLARS

NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES M ARCH 29

COMPANY

CHANGE NET / %

VOLUME

+1.55% +2.41% +3.52% +7.14% +6.61% +4.10% +2.10% +3.73% +107.45% +6.86% +4.41%

4.63M 377,006 191,708 1.93M 1.87M 114,983 584,593 569,255 2.59M 1.65M 2.89M

-3.39% -27.31% -25.60% -27.45% -29.55% -3.40% -3.56% -15.57% -8.52% -8.43% -0.43%

33.85M 216.63M 1.31M 106.07M 45.68M 5.16M 257,651 7,282 1.53M 5.49M 1.49M

Most Advanced Amazon.com Inc. Booking Holdings Inc. Broadcom Inc. 8% Pfd. Series A ASML Holding N.V. Lam Research Corp.

First Citizens Bancshares Inc. Cl A MercadoLibre Inc. Intuitive Surgical Inc. Design Therapeutics Inc. KLA Corp.

Broadcom Inc.

Most Declined Tesla Inc. ViacomCBS Inc. Cl B ViacomCBS Inc. Cl A Discovery Inc. Series A Discovery Inc. Series C Roku Inc. Cl A arGEN-X SE ADR Discovery Inc. Series B Fulgent Genetics Inc. JOYY Inc. ADR Alphabet Inc. Cl C

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

www.euroweeklynews.com

Currency outlook: US dollar soars amid surging yields, euro tumbles on renewed coronavirus concerns

EUROZONE: Data has been mixed over the past month.

ASK THE EXPERT Peter Loveday

Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com

Euro EUR/GBP: Up from £0.85 to £0.86 EUR/USD: Down from $1.21 to $1.18 The euro continued to struggle to attract sup‐ port through March with the EU’s sluggish vac‐ cine rollout remaining a key source of pressure for the single currency.

Further diminishing the appeal of the euro for investors in the past couple of weeks has been the startling resurgence of coronavirus cases across the continent, with Europe’s third wave forcing countries to tighten restrictions once more.

Meanwhile, data coming from the Eurozone has been mixed over the past month, with some positive releases offering temporary respite for the single currency, but unable to re‐ verse the prevailing selling bias.

Looking ahead, barring a dramatic improve‐ ment in Europe’s vaccine rollout or a sharp drop in local coronavirus cases, it’s likely we could see the euro remain on the back foot through much of April.

Pound GBP/EUR: Down from €1.16 to €1.15 GBP/USD: Down from $1.41 to $1.36 March has seen the pound struggle to main‐ tain the highs hit back in February as a key pillar of support for Sterling through the start of 2021, its successful vaccination programme, now ap‐ pears to be under threat due to shortages and potential export bans from the EU. This has stoked concerns that the UK govern‐ ment will need to alter its roadmap for easing lockdown, something which Boris Johnson also warned about when schools reopened at the start of the month.

However, Sterling has still been able to find some support through the past month, with Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s budget providing a lift after he announced a more generous than ex‐ pected stimulus package and opted to defer tax hikes until 2023.

Turning to April, the focus for GBP investors will be on whether the government moves for‐ ward with its plans to reopen more of the econ‐ omy on April 12, with any delays due to the vac‐ cine shortage or Europe’s third wave ‘washing up on UK shores’ likely to negatively impact GBP exchange rates.

US Dollar USD/GBP: Up from £0.70 to £0.72 USD/EUR: Up from €0.82 to €0.84 The US dollar has stormed higher over the past month, with the currency garnering signifi‐ cant support amidst a sharp rise in US Treasury yields, which have surged on expectations for a robust US economic recovery and a rapid accel‐ eration of domestic inflation.

The safe‐haven ‘Greenback’ has attracted ad‐ ditional support in the second half of March due to a notable souring of market sentiment fol‐ lowing the coronavirus resurgence in Europe and renewed tensions between the West and China.

The US dollar’s rally in March didn’t come without its hiccups however, with USD ex‐ change rates slumping sharply following the Federal Reserve’s latest policy meeting, in which it struck a more dovish than expected tone.

Looking ahead, the US dollar may maintain its upward trajectory through April so long as yields continue to accelerate as investors re‐ main skittish over the global economic recovery in 2021.

Currencies Direct have helped over 325,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

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1 - 7 April 2021

EWN 31

32 EWN

www.euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 April 2021

FEATURE

Time to step back and smell the roses LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT I THINK the time has come to step back and smell the roses. I’ve come to the conclusion that if some people were in the middle of the black plague, listening to the cries of ‘bring out your dead’ and watching bodies being piled up on handcarts ‐ or standing in the middle of Auschwitz surveying the horrors of Nazi genocide, they would still be in denial.

Relatively speaking, those among us who insist that Covid is not happening are only a small minority, but they are still there. When you consider there also exists a Flat Earth society you do realise that, no matter what the evidence, when certain members of the public have made up their minds NOTHING is going to change them. To disagree invites arguments, ill feelings and disintegration of friendships. So I’m gonna revert to partaking the pollen and chilling a bit.

With all this Covid dissent, plus the racist bigotry and civil disobedience that is being allowed to flourish, UK society is

NOTHING: Is going to change some people’s minds. plunging headlong into the hands of the leftie politicians at an alarming rate of knots. They are all of course rubbing their hands in gleeful anticipation of as much social upheaval as they can possibly instigate and, as I mentioned last week, utilise it to seize the reins of power for Labour at the next general election.

I also notice that London’s Mayor Khan; the man who has allowed many parts of London to fall into a crime ridden, gang infested, third world anarchy; banned the use of many female models in public advertising, advocated the removal of historical figures and generally stood by while this great metropolis

experiences more racial discrimination than it has endured since the Roman occupation ‐ is actually 29 points ahead in popularity in the run up to the election of a new mayor! Obviously this man is not favoured because of his achievements.

With London’s Asian community at an all‐time high, he is a front runner purely

because of his roots and ethnic background. With this same utterly undemocratic ideology being echoed in cities all across the UK, I’m afraid that within a couple of generations the culture and face of the UK will have been changed forever. This week a teacher in Batley is in fear of his life and under police protection, while a mob of masked Islamic bully boys picket the school he taught at. His ‘crime’? To breach the Islamic blasphemy laws by showing his pupils a depiction of the prophet Mohamed! (Since when was this Sharia law written into British legislation?)

This was a popular well respected Yorkshire teacher working in a British school, delivering a serious lesson on the historical events surrounding the Charlie Hebdo atrocity. Showing a complete lack of cajones and a disgraceful disregard for the freedom of speech, the appeasing school governors, suspended the teacher, shut the school and issued a grovelling apology to the local Islamic community. Heaven help us all.

Keep the faith • Love Leapy Leapylee2002@gmail.com excpatradioscotland.com. (alter ego!)

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

FEATURE

www.euroweeklynews.com

I’m ok with the rules and regs MIKE SENKER IN MY OPINION

Views of a Grumpy Old Man AS I’ve said many times I’m not a believer in conspiracy theories with maybe the exception of Princess Di, perhaps JFK, oh and Aids. But after a year of what’s been going on I’m beginning to think some things we are being told need investigating. One problem is that you’re not allowed to question anything without being labelled an anti-vaxxer or a member of QAnon. I want to know why there is a lack of information. What happened to all the people that got locked up in UK hotels when they came back from the red zones?

Massive publicity the day it started then nothing. How many had Covid? What happened to the ones that couldn’t or wouldn’t pay the £1,700 for being banged up when there was absolutely nothing wrong with them? How about the UK government being held to account for the billions of pounds that’s gone in the direction of their mates? I’d need 4,000 words here, not 400, to ask what I want to ask.

I have UK friends that keep asking me what’s happening here and have I had the

jab yet and who get quite animated when I tell them no I haven’t and don’t know anyone here that has and I’m not that fussed about having it yet.

I’m OK with the rules and regs here that let me go out for coffee, lunch and now dinner and I can go shopping.

I saw today that easyJet turned away a 79-year-old woman from getting on a flight because there was a slight error on her paperwork. The problem I see here is that too much power is being given to the wrong people. The person working behind the check-in desk should immediately hand over to a customer service expert to try and fix the problem any way they can instead of being a total jobsworth and just saying ‘computer says no.’ And if it’s fixable, like in this case there was allegedly just a spelling mistake, get it fixed ffs.

I just read this - In less than a week, two gunmen in the USA separated by 1,400 miles have taken 18 lives. And experts, who study and chronicle mass killings, warned that there could be more as the nation reverts to a more normal way of life. If this is what getting back to normal means you are in a bigger mess than I thought! Sort your effing gun laws out you morons!!!!

Email: mikesenker@gmail.com

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

1 - 7 April 2021

EWN 33

5:30pm 6:15pm 6:35pm 6:40pm 6:45pm 9:35pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 11:20pm 11:29pm 11:30pm

The Repair Shop BBC News BBC London News; Weather Weather The Sound of Music EastEnders MasterChef Would I Lie to You? BBC News at Ten Regional News and Weather Weather The Graham Norton Show

8:00pm

5:35pm

Julie Andrews: Talking Pictures Flog It! Richard Osman's House of Games Saved and Remade MOTDx Pilgrimage: The Road to Istanbul Great British Menu Gardeners' World Easter Special

8:00pm

11:29pm

The Repair Shop BBC News BBC London News Weather The Sound of Music EastEnders MasterChef Would I Lie to You? BBC News at Ten Regional News and Weather Weather

SATURDAY 3/04

5:40pm 6:25pm 6:35pm 6:40pm 6:45pm 7:15pm 7:45pm 8:30pm 9:20pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:15pm

Garden Rescue BBC News BBC London News Weather Celebrity Mastermind Catchpoint The Wall Pointless Celebrities Casualty Keeping Faith BBC News Weather

12:30pm 1:30pm 2:50pm 5:05pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:15pm

Great British Menu Great British Menu Death on the Nile Evil Under the Sun ENO Messiah Easter from King's Top of the Pops: The Story of 1981 Freddie Mercury: A Life in Ten Pictures Queen: The Legendary 1975 Concert

8:00pm

Money for Nothing The Boat Race BBC News BBC London News Weather Countryfile Antiques Roadshow Top Gear Line of Duty BBC News BBC London News Weather

4:05pm 6:00pm

The Vikings Remarkable Places to Eat The Real T. Rex with Chris Packham The Day the Dinosaurs Died Brazil with Michael Palin Eye of the Storm Red Joan Heroes

8:00pm

SUNDAY 4/04

3:35pm 4:00pm 6:30pm 6:50pm 6:55pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm 11:25pm

MONDAY 5/04

6:15pm 7:00pm 7:15pm 7:20pm 7:25pm 8:25pm 9:10pm 9:30pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:20pm

Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News Weather Sort Your Life Out Garden Rescue Enders Fawlty Towers MasterChef BBC News at Ten Regional News and Weather

3:20pm 6:15pm 7:00pm

Fall of the Roman Empire Flog It! Richard Osman's House of Games Saved and Remade Mary Berry Everyday Mastermind Mastermind University Challenge NewLouis Theroux: Shooting Joe Exotic Highlander

8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 10:00pm

5:30pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 7:55pm

The Repair Shop Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News Party Election Broadcast The One Show EastEnders Holby City Island Medics The Syndicate BBC News at Ten

6:15pm 7:00pm

Flog It! Richard Osman's House of Games NewSaved and Remade Your Home Made Perfect Remarkable Places to Eat Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby Live at the Apollo

8:00pm 8:30pm 9:00pm 9:30pm

Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News Party Election Broadcast The One Show The Bidding Room The Repair Shop This Is My House BBC News at Ten Regional News and Weather

3:20pm

Fall of the Roman Empire Flog It! Richard Osman's House of Games NewSaved and Remade Your Home Made Perfect Great British Menu The Terror Rick Stein's Long Weekends

8:00pm 8:30pm 10:00pm

TUESDAY 6/04

FRIDAY 2/04

THURSDAY 1/04

Ready, Steady, Cook The Repair Shop Pointless BBC News at Six BBC London News; The One Show EastEnders Dragons' Den MasterChef BBC News at Ten Regional News and Weather

WEDNESDAY 7/04

4:45pm 5:30pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:35pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm 11:30pm 5:30pm 6:15pm 6:35pm 6:40pm 6:45pm 9:35pm 10:00pm 10:30pm 11:00pm 11:20pm

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Sacred Songs - The Secrets of Our Hearts Sounds of the Sixties Top of the Pops: 1990 Top of the Pops: 1990 Fleetwood Mac's Songbird: Christine McVie Fleetwood Mac: Don't Stop Fleetwood Mac: A Musical History

3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 7:45pm 8:00pm 8:30pm 9:30pm 11:20pm 11:34pm

Judge Rinder Tenable Tipping Point The Chase In for a Penny CITV Evening News ITV News London Emmerdale Coronation Street Vera ITV News ITV London Weather

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EWN 35

Advertising Feature

Funeral etiquette - What is expected IF you are going to attend a funeral, you may not be sure what is expected of you, here are some tips which will help you to feel more comfortable that you are doing the right thing.

Dress code Most of us would wear black or dark colours at a funeral, unless specifically told otherwise.

Although the dress code is not as strict or for‐ mal nowadays and casual attire is acceptable, make sure that you are dressed appropriately and that you are showing respect for the de‐ ceased and their family.

Sunglasses are acceptable for both men and women when used to hide the face and emo‐ tions, but should be as plain as possible. People will also understand if you wear them indoors, but try to remove them if you are talking to someone, as eye contact is very important.

Sympathies Make sure to express your condolences to the bereaved relatives at the funeral or memorial service, even if you have already contacted them and/or sent a sympathy card.

Many people find it hard to approach some‐ body who has just lost a loved one as they are not sure what to say, which is under‐ standable, but do not avoid taking a few min‐

utes to show them your support.

Helping hand When you are talking to the relatives of the deceased, this is a good time to ask what you might do to help or to offer your assistance on matters such as providing them with food, of‐ fering to take care of children or pets, helping to clean the house, do their shopping, do some gardening or take them to appointments. They are likely to appreciate your gesture although they may refuse help. If they do refuse, don’t be offended, they most likely don’t want to put you out, but if you are close, look out for clues to what you could do for them anyway and try to help out over the coming weeks.

Children at funerals Unless they were immediate relatives or very close friends, it is best to keep small children, especially babies and toddlers, away from fu‐ nerals, as it can be difficult for them to remain quiet and settled, which could be disruptive and upsetting for others.

On the other hand, older children should at‐ tend as it is important for them to get a better understanding about death and what is expect‐ ed from them at a funeral. If you do bring a child to the funeral, if he or she becomes disrup‐

tive, leave immediately and keep to one side.

Where to sit The first few rows of seats at a wake, memori‐ al or funeral are for the immediate family, after that, it is OK to sit in any of the remaining places.

Make sure you get there on time so there is no difficulty finding a seat. If you’re not sure, just ask if a seat is taken and sit where you can.

After the funeral Most funerals will end with a gathering, often for lunch at a restaurant or at the home of the family. Whenever possible you should attend, but don’t stay for too long. The rules of eti‐ quette are more casual at these events and children as welcome, but it is im‐ portant to remember why you have all got together and not engage in inappropriate or disrespectful be‐ haviour. While it is a nice opportu‐ nity to remember the life of the de‐ ceased and the good times you have shared with them, and it’s OK to smile and laugh, unless something different has been arranged by the family, keep the conversation subdued and respectful.

Later on Although the pain of losing a loved one never

goes away, the weeks after the funeral will continue to be par‐ ticularly painful for the family.

Make sure that you don’t just disap‐ pear after the event and take some time to check in with them periodically to see how they are. Do not avoid speaking of the deceased when you are with them, but do so when ap‐ propriate.

www.goldenleavesinternational.com • enquiries@goldenleaves.com • Facebook: goldenleavesspain

36 EWN

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1 - 7 April 2021

FEATURE

GO LOCAL

THE EUROWEEKLY NEWS is urging its readers to support local businesses in the com‐ munity by going local through the lockdown and for your all your shopping this year, instead of feeding online giants and super‐ stores.

During this lockdown and over Easter, we challenge you to rediscover your local high streets, markets, butch‐ ers, greengrocers and all of the wonderfully quirky inde‐ pendent businesses in your area.

Due to the Covid‐19 pan‐ demic, you may have to support many local busi‐ nesses by ordering online and making use of any click and collect services they can operate if you are unable to get out due to health rea‐ sons or lockdown restric‐ tions.

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

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

Many local stores support local charities, support and sponsor local sports teams and in many cases the small independent stores are actu‐ ally much more than just a small high street shop, they’re a family’s legacy, of‐ ten passed down through numerous generations and

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

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 support‐ ing someone’s dream and ambition, and also the courage it took them to step out alone, which is no easy task. It takes quite a large

chunk of money to set up an independent store and com‐ pete with the multinational and chains.

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

To advertise here contact us on:

951 386 161

You could also consider purchasing gift vouchers from local businesses to help them over the coming weeks, thinking outside the box can often lead to some fantastic ideas. Why not buy a meal for two, an hour’s tat‐

FEATURE

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too time at a local studio, a hair cut at a local salon or an online study course for someone looking to change their career path.

As people are struggling with finances thinking about what friends and family may actually need is important too. Whilst it’s nice to give a glamourous gift perhaps pre‐ paying a family member’s phone bill for the month would actually be a better gift. Helping people alleviate stress and worry , give the gift of peace of mind through these difficult times.

Choosing to spend your money locally will really make a difference in the re‐ covery of the local economy.

When we buy local, our money stays local, and it strengthens the local econo‐ my in two ways. First, buying local keeps money circulat‐ ing within the local econo‐ my.

Studies have shown that local businesses recirculate a greater share of every euro as they create locally owned supply chains and invest in their employees.

Data shows that local re‐

1 - 7 April 2021

SPENDING LOCALLY:Will make a difference to the local economy. tailers return 52 per cent of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14 per cent for national chain retailers.

Money circulating through the local economy benefits everyone who is a part of each transaction. For exam‐ ple, let’s look at a local farmer growing produce.

First, they sell to a local restaurant, which in turn prepares the fresh produce and sells it to local cus‐

tomers. The farmer pays its local employees and the restaurant uses revenue from sales to buy supplies from a neighbourhood hard‐ ware store. This example il‐ lustrates how the recircula‐ tion of money in the local economy leads to a stronger financial foundation for our neighbours and communi‐ ties.

Buying local also fuels new employment and job oppor‐ tunities for people within our

community. Studies show, locally owned businesses employ more people per unit of sales and retain more em‐ ployees over time.

A fantastic example of how to support your local community is with a Charity Gift certificate, why not do‐ nate to your loved one’s favourite cause.

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

EWN 37

38 EWN

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1 - 7 April 2021

FEATURE

Advertising Feature

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C H O O S I N G the right electric heating system for your home in Spain has always been a daunt‐ ing task, but the recent electric‐ ity price increase has made it even more important to choose wisely. Many elec‐ tric heaters on the market are so inefficient, especial‐ ly the cheaper ones, that using one could land you with eye watering electric bills.

Neater Heater was estab‐ lished 12 years ago to intro‐ duce chilly expats to these efficient, economical to run, and stylish Norwegian con‐ vector heaters. Obviously there is a cost to running any heating system, but with Neater Heaters your euro goes further as we can heat a larger area with a smaller heater than our competitors.

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efficiency, and giving our customers greater control.

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www.euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 April 2021

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1 - 7 April 2021

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Dear Bipolar Disorder: We need to agree on a few things MS BIPOLAR

UP AND DOWN WITH BALANCE UNEDITED

DEAR Bipolar, We’ve had a relationship for a decade now.

Happy Anniversary! Although it’s a relationship I never chose to be in. Yet here we are, no way of getting out of it, so we might as well learn to live with it the best we can. To tell the truth, I can’t even remember when we met exactly. Was it at eight years old when I remember being petrified that my Mama was going to leave me and obsessing over that thought, or was it at 13 years old when I would start to self-harm, or was it at 18 when I would drink myself silly just to escape my head and my thoughts.

Gradually, you just moved into my life and have stayed there ever since. So I guess we’re stuck as partners for the rest of my life. That being said, there are some things I need to talk to you

about. We’ve never been friends. We never will be. I have some issues with you; there are compromises we need to make.

I’ll take my pills every day without fail , I promise to not mess with them, and take what is prescribed, no more no less. I’ll pay for those pills, as long as you back off enough to let me keep working and earning

money so I can look after myself. Just leave me enough energy to do that.

I will try to minimise the stress in my life , if you will cut out the physical symptoms when there is stress anyway. You know the ones I’m talking about. Feeling sick or being sick, or the cold sores I get after a panic attack.

Please, if you can, give me some non anxiety days so that I can go out and enjoy things with my friends and while we’re on the subject of enjoyment, I would appreciate it if you would give me back my libido, it would be nice to be able to feel excited when someone asks me out on a date!

Don’t even talk to me about hurting myself. I won’t listen, no matter how loud you get.

No more screwing with my memories. I’ve already lost enough. You can keep the ones of everything stupid I’ve ever done. Please stop making me feel guilty. The past is the past.

Now that I’ve finally got some selfesteem back, you just keep your claws off it. I need it and you don’t.

No love, Ms Bipolar x

msbipolar@euroweeklynews.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

www.euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 April 2021

EWN 45

Advertising Feature

WHOLESALE HAIR & BEAUTY PRODUCTS PHB SUPPLIES is thriving on the Costa Blanca, offering a full and complete range of hair‐ care, beauty and aesthetics products delivered to your door.

The beauty wholesale and distribution company, owned and managed by Paul Green, has established itself as a leading one‐stop shop in the supply of hair, nail and beauty products to a large range of salons, profes‐ sionals and individuals from Benidorm to Cartagena and ev‐ erywhere in between.

And while PHB Supplies will de‐ liver directly to your door, there is the added advantage of being able to visit the shop at your leisure.

“Our aim at PHB is to supply the best range of products at competi‐

tive prices to all of our customers; salons, professionals and new and existing individuals, no request is too big or small.

“We pride ourselves on offering a first‐class service that goes over and above the norm when it comes to customer service and satisfaction,” said PHB, whose staff have 10‐plus years’ experience in hairdressing, beauty, and supplying customers.

And it’s not just about offering an incredible range of products, PHB offers a more hands‐on service and will visit new and existing clients to ‘assist, recommend and help create ideas and visions for the future.’

PHB provides the full hair, nails, beauty, waxing, head‐to‐toe service, and promotions and offers are con‐ stantly changing and being updated.

You can find out more by visiting the company’s website: www.phbsupplies.com, check out their Facebook page phbsupplies or give them a call on 865 757 136/711 003 899.

PHB Supplies: 4 Calle Mar Jonico, Local 6, La Marina Urb, San Fulgencio 03177 email: phbsupplies@gmail.com

46 EWN

1 - 7 April 2021

www.euroweeklynews.com

SOCIAL SCENE

Best foot forward WHY not put your best foot forward this week and take part in a 5km walk in Orihuela in aid of two defibrillators for the community.

La Fuente Defibrillator Walk takes place on Friday

and Saturday, April 2 and 3, with the first day now fully booked.

Walkers will meet at Ryan’s Bar at 10.15am for tea and coffee before groups of four set off every five minutes to

In the pink A CHARITY lunch and fun quiz in aid of Maria and the Pink Ladies promises to be a great afternoon in La Fuente on Friday, April 16.

“Come and support an absolutely fantastic charity event

for Maria and the Pink Ladies (Cancer Awareness and Support) based in the Orihuela Costa. They work tirelessly and voluntarily to support people in need, and during these desperate times are seeking our help to raise funds,” said organiser Denise Pritchard of Ladies of Spain Villamartin Events.

The event, from 12.30pm, costs €11.95 per ticket which includes a glass of wine and a two-course lunch followed by a fun quiz.

Tickets are available by visiting www.ladiesofspainvilla martinevents.com.

adhere to Covid safety proto‐ cols.

Teams will make their way to Evolution for brunch and unlimited water, cava or beer for two hours.

There is a €20 fee per per‐ son, and anybody interested in taking part should call 711 066 651.

“As an added bonus, we have the fabulous Paul Cameron as The Maverick playing on both days during the brunch. Friday is booked up, but we still have some availability left for Saturday, and anyone who pays for brunch in advance, will be guaranteed a seat under the toldo,” said organisers.

“We need all the support we can get to ensure we reach our target to supply and fit two defibrillators in the centre. EpiPens will also be made available for all bars and businesses who have contributed to the fund.”

There will be raffles on both days and all donations are hugely appreciated.

1 - 7 April 2021 • www.euroweeklynews.com

SPONSORED BY

Who’s looking after your pets when you go away?

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Advertising Feature HERE is a list of possible causes: Allergies: Sometimes sneezing can be an indicator of underlying environmental allergies. You may notice sneezing in addition to oth‐ er allergy signs, such as tearing, scratching or licking their fur.

Airborne Irritants: Certain dogs can be sensitive to irritants, such as dust, pollen, smoke, scented candles, cleaning products, per‐ fume or air fresheners.

Reverse Sneezing: This is an in‐ teresting phenomenon that usual‐ ly occurs in response to excite‐ ment, irritants, or inflammation and they exhibit sudden, repeated inhalations through the nose that sounds like a goose honking.

Foreign Body: Occasionally, dogs will get a piece of foreign ma‐ terial stuck in their nose, such as blades of grass, foxtails, or sticks.

This is extremely irritating, so you will see sneezing and discomfort.

Nasal Infection: Normally you will usually see additional symp‐ toms, such as a bloody or mucoid discharge and lack of appetite.

Nasal Tumour: In older dogs In Costablanca Sur: Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante www.resonanciaveterinaria.es

Why Do Dogs Sneeze? (usually above six/seven years of age), nasal tumours are a possible cause of sneezing.

Brachycephalic or flat‐faced dogs: These dogs are more prone to sneezing due to the anatomical compression of their nasal pas‐ sages.

Occasional sneezing in dogs does not usually require a vet visit but if you see increased frequen‐ cy, nasal discharge/blood, nasal swelling, itching, licking, scratch‐ ing, sometimes it is necessary to resort to endoscopy, CT or MRI for diagnosis.

47

PETS

Let those sleeping dogs lie THE structure of a dog’s sleep is very similar to a human being’s sleep. There are stages of wakefulness, rapid‐eye‐ movement REM sleep and non‐rapid eye‐movement sleep.

While asleep, the dog’s brain is trying to find shortcuts or connections between things that they have experi‐ enced. The events of the day are put into categories, when in non‐REM sleep. In REM sleep there is an opportunity for the dog to explore, in an environment that’s free of conse‐ quences.

Dogs enter REM sleep about 20 minutes into a snooze session and might stay there for two to three minutes.

People and dogs dream in both stages of sleep mentioned, but most dreams are remembered through REM sleep.

Dogs, of course, dream about things that dogs normally do, while small dogs have more frequent but shorter dream periods and larger dogs have less frequent but longer dreams.

Dogs probably also have nightmares, they can get nar‐ colepsy, which is a disorder that causes the brain to fall in‐ to a sudden state of sleep. Unlike some of their human owners, they don’t suffer from sleep paralysis, which is when someone becomes conscious, but are unable to move their body.

When dogs sleep, they quiver, make leg twitches and even growl or snap at something chasing them in their dreams. If dogs are having trouble sleeping, it may also be due to pain or fear, which they express through anxiety at night.

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CLASSIFIEDS ARCHITECT

BUILDING SERVICES J & J PAINTERS. Inside - outside - clean - fast low cost. Torrevieja Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (287797)

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

CARE HOME

CHARITY ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life – damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.

AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aacostablanca.org (93323) CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer.

Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone.

Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@hotmail. com (95475) CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

CARS WANTED

CHARITY

52

CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 www.givinglight. com.

(10006) FREEMASONRY. Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca? There are various lodges meeting up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact Harry Palmer Membership Committee. Tel: 966 712 326 or email: 2palmers.quesada@gmail. com (95477) HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel 965 704 282). We are online at www.helpvegabaja.com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpveg abaja.com. We also have a 24-hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and non-members on 966 723 733 (95456) INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, TORREVIEJA Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja 03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday morning Sevices at 10am and 11:30am. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273.

For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www.icator revieja.org (95476) LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English speaking church. For more information see our website w w w. l a s i e s t a e va n g e l i calchurch.org (10005) PHILIP SCOTT LODGE No 10671 of the RAOB. Please call the secretary, Colin Bird on 693 287 614 for further information.

(95459)

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PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pilarchurch.org Reg No: 2009-SG/A (95463) ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH 1359. The association supports the welfare needs of ex-members of the RAF and their dependents. Due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions we cannot hold General Meetings at the moment. In normal times we provide a social hub for members and hold lunches every month. To fund Welfare we raise money through the Wings Appeal. To find out more contact Chairman Tony at tony.elaine.cuenta@gm ail.com. For Welfare contact Andy on 0034 711 00 86 84. For general information on RAFA visit www.rafa.org.uk.

(238593) ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Why not make this year the year you volunteer?

See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.co m. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control.

It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, http://branches.britishle gion.org.uk/branches/ori huela-costa - covering

from Punta Prima to San Javier. More info can be found on branch website www.orihuelacostarbl.co.u k. (95457)

Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granalacant.secretary@rbl. community

THE PATIENCE LODGE No 2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information.

(253807)

ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION (Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details Hon Sec 692 938 664.

(10004)

THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar will be closed for the immediate future due to Covid-19.

Identification Fiscal G54713789 (95454)

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION For information please contact Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 716 274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 921 996.

(95455) STROKE ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers. With rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact 654 801 260 or email strokesupportgroup@hotmail.com, website: torreviejastroke support.org. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473) THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH. Former & serving aircrews of the UK or Allied Armed Forces are welcome to join this convivial & friendly organisation, now in its 21st year. www.aca costablanca.org or call the Secretary on: 966 495 042 (95465) THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188.

(95461) THE BAKER Foundation Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on

CHIMNEY SWEEP PROFESSIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP Sooty & Son, Family Business established over 60 years. 660 478 881 (290229)

ELECTRICIAN MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge.

698 320 434 (285091)

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

GARDENING SERVICES DAVID THE TREE GUY Cutting, trimming & removal of trees. Torrevieja, Alicante, Benidorm areas.

722 652 173 (291904)

GENERAL SERVICES MAN & Van, small removals, shopping/collections. Painting, Cleaning / Window Services available.

Santa Pola, Gran Alacant, El Altet & La Marina areas.

No job too small. Affordable & reliable. Tel 711 073 074 (291407)

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CLASSIFIEDS HOME IMPROVEMENTS BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434.

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INSURANCE FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UPTO A €1000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686 116 297 (WHATS APP TO) OR VISIT www.sosin suranceinspain.com or email tracey@sosin suranceinspain.com (291396) BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) info@beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com or visit www.beneficialinsuran ceinspain.com for online quote. (291458) For daily news visit www.euroweeklynews.com

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www.euroweeklynews.com STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.co m (2887610)

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

MOBILITY FOR SALE: TGA Vita Lite Mobility Scooter colour dark blue front basket included. 119cm x 62cm, good condition. Quick Sale €550, Contact: 606 406 159 (291464)

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FOR SALE WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726)

MUSIC TUITION PIANO, Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher.

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NAUTICAL INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. RYA VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (291576)

PERGOLAS QUALITY LHD & RHD Vehicles bought & sold. All paperwork undertaken quickly & professionally.

Immediate payment for all purchases. Mobile / WhatsApp +34 600 726 221 Office +34 965 687 946 www.fwreurocars.com in fo@fwreurocars.com (291571)

TAILOR MADE, durable canvas, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. Mazarron based, and serving the Costa Blanca too. Mail Order and Ordering online 667 879 399 krugercanopies@yahoo.co .uk (288951)

PET CHARITY EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033 or sales@easyhorsecare.net www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)

1 - 7 April 2021 GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community.

Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, dewormed, de-flead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709) P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www.pepa spain.com (95708) SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting re-homing.

Phone Gail 962 896 118.

Visit our website for directions. www.spama.org and view our new blog at w w w . s p a m a - s a f o r. blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)

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MAN AND VAN UK Spain. 2 vans travelling twice a month, Murcia North / South UK. Storage in Spain. Tel 610 846 260 or 0044 751 918 6355 email van.man@hotmail. co.uk (285095)

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

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Introducing The New Mini Electric BMW’S Mini Electric is, at a ba‐ sic level, a three‐door Mini. Its lithium‐ion drive battery does nothing more serious to impact on practicality than very marginally raising the height of the car’s rear seat cushions.

Under the bonnet is housed an identical 181bhp, 199lb‐ft

electric motor that powers the BMW i3S ‐ except this time it’s powering the Mini’s front axle, of course, rather than the BMW’s rear one.

The ‘hybrid synchronous mo‐ tor design, a BMW patent, de‐ livers greater power density than most electric motors by

combining within its rotor de‐ sign the effect of permanent magnets with something called the reluctance effect, which cuts down on the need for heavy ‘rare earth’ materials like Neodymium within its construc‐ tion.

That, in turn, means the rotor can be lighter, and so it can spin faster and produce power over a greater range than most elec‐ tric motors manage.

A critical component of the car’s powertrain is its drive bat‐ tery, which is T‐shaped and fits under the back seats and along the transmission tunnel. It is as large as the space for it allows to be carried within the Mini’s chassis allows and has a usable capacity of 28.9kWh. However, this is not a particu‐ larly competitive figure in a market in which both the Re‐ nault Zoe and Peugeot e‐208 of‐ fer close to 50kWh. The Mini’s engineers claim that the 144 miles the battery delivers will meet most daily motoring needs of Mini owners ‐ with room to spare.

Prices start from €18,683 to €36,000 with deals available.

MOTORING

High-Tech Interior EQS

DASHBOARD: Now has three screens.

THE new Mercedes EQS electric car will offer more than 400 miles of range, newly released pictures have revealed its stunning space‐age interior for the first time.

While digital displays replace traditional dials and large infotainment touchscreens are now becoming commonplace on top‐end executive and luxury models, the EQS goes one step fur‐ ther by having not one but THREE screens spread across its dashboard, including an entire‐ ly separate touchscreen available for the front passenger to use.

Following on from the EQC and EQA electric SUVs and the EQV people carrier, the EQS sits at the very pinnacle of the German brand’s range of electric cars. Key rivals will include the Audi E‐ tron GT, Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan ‐ to

compete against those kinds of cars, the EQS needs to be very special indeed. Fortunately, Mercedes is throwing everything into making the EQS feel special on the inside, and it looks like they have accomplished that task ‐ exquisitely.

By the way, if all that display space can’t ac‐ commodate the information that you want to see, you’ll be able to spec an optional head‐up display that can put the most useful bits of infor‐ mation right in front of your eyes.

Like other Mercedes models, buyers are likely to be able to change the look of the EQS’ interior on the fly, with multicoloured ambient interior lighting and different display modes for the info‐ tainment screens, it’s like a disco on wheels.

Prices start from €105,000 (est).

MOTORING

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ROAD TEST

by Mark Slack JEREMY CLARKSON called it re‐ volting, Richard Hammond called it hideous, so is Honda’s Civic Type R really that bad? It’s certainly eye‐catching with its overly large rear spoiler, red seats and on my test car (a GT model costing €42,230 (£36,320) matching red paintwork.

The Type R is a true Honda icon, arguably as much as the NSX, and from its original back in 1997 it has pretty much been the company’s affordable halo model.

Built in Swindon for many years, sadly Honda are leaving the UK despite the undoubted quality that Swindon produced.

The plant closes this year but, unlike fellow

Honda Civic Type R.

1 - 7 April 2021

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Honda Civic Type R - just for driving Japanese car maker Mitsubishi, you’ll still be able to buy right hand drive Hondas.

The latest Type R is priced from €39,904 (£34,320) with three model lines, the Type R, GT and Sport Line. Power comes from a 2.0‐litre VTEC Turbo petrol engine that pro‐ duces 62 mph in 5.8 seconds and carries on to a top speed of 169 mph. It feels quick, very quick! Yet despite this you can still get high 30s mpg in mixed driving if you’re careful with your right foot. Difficult, very difficult! Sharp steering and

three drive settings ‐ comfort, sport and insane ie R mode ‐ makes for a very entertaining drive. In comfort mode it’s a, perhaps surprisingly, comfort‐ able and useable machine for the daily commute. It’s practical too with decent interior space and a good boot.

Standard kit is generous with all the usual accoutrements such as auto lights, wipers, climate, auto high beam, heated and powered door mirrors, Alcan‐ tara, rear view camera, privacy glass and lots of safety kit. On the performance front there are

Brembo brake discs and cal‐ lipers, adaptive damping, limited slip differential, rev match and stability and handling assist. It all goes to make the superb pack‐ age that is the Type R. Then there’s the Marmite question. Its looks are certainly

divisive, which is why Honda have introduced a slightly down‐ tuned version in terms of looks with the Sport Line.

Surely though if you’re want‐ ing a performance machine like the Civic Type R then you want the looks to go with it. The an‐

gles, accentuated curves, mad looking spoiler, triple exhaust and overly bright seating is all part of the Type R look.

Even if you wouldn’t want to drive it all the time, I guarantee when you do drive it, you won’t be able to stop grinning.