COSTA DE ALMERIA • EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM
THINK PINK
Issue No. 1999
26 Oct - 1 Nov 2023
THE City Hall of Antas shone pink on October 19 as it stood firm in the fight against breast cancer on International Breast Cancer Awareness Day. The World Health Organisa tion celebrates the Internation al Day against breast cancer on this date, that transcends geo graphical borders and seeks to raise awareness among the world’s population about the importance of prevention and early diagnosis of this disease that affects millions of women in Spain and all over the world. It also seeks to improve women’s access to effective controls, diagnoses and treat ments.
credit Galicia Facebook page
The fight against breast cancer never stops.
Breast cancer accounts for about 30 per cent of female tu mours in Spain and the Span ish Association Against Cancer (AECC) has explained that most of the cases were diag nosed in women aged 35 and
above. Early detection of breast cancer greatly increases the survival rate and so raising awareness of the symptoms is paramount in the fight against the disease. These pink lights are one of the many efforts
made by the locality of Antas as it joined this campaign, rais ing awareness among its pop ulation by implementing com munication campaigns in its schools and local community. Alongside this Antas will al so hold the ‘Pink Arrows Against Breast Cancer’ on November 12 at Antas shoot ing range. This event will in clude a breast cancer informa tion station, an archery competition and many food and drink stands. It starts at 9am, the entry price is €10and everything raised from the event will will be donated to the Association of Women with Breast Cancer (AMAMA).
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LOCAL NEWS
Lucky escape ALMERIA escaped storm Bernard as it blasted other unlucky provinces in the surrounding ar eas. Just days ago, storm Aline blasted parts of Spain with strong gusts of wind and pouring rain. Storm Bernard then made an unwelcome ap pearance, plunging into the peninsula on the morning of Sunday, October 22. According to the forecast of the state weather agency (Aemet), more than 20 provinces in 11 regions have been warned of the incoming storm and put on yellow alert, which is at risk, or on amber alert, which is at significant risk. Resi dents in affected areas have been told to expect strong winds of up to 90 kilometres per hour, heavy rain and unusually large waves. In addition to this, busy Bernard will also bring other yellow warnings for wind or rain in all
Credit : Christopher Down Wikipedia Commons
Lucky sunbreak for residents of Almeria.
provinces of Andalucia, all provinces that is, ex cept Almeria! So it seems for now the city is spared and resi dents can breathe a sigh of relief, whilst still per haps keeping our dampened neighbours in our prayers.
The ancient city
THE city of Bayra Archaeo logical Park in Almeria has become a focus point for the Vera City Council as they make plans to further re search the site. The territorial delegate of tourism, culture and sports, José Angel Velez, and the vice president, Almudena Morales have recently visit
ed the archaelogical park to learn firsthand about the interesting work that is be ing carried out there. The Vera City Council had stated that it intends to create a programme of an nual international meet ings, where the main topics related to archaeological research at the Bayra site
can be addressed and de bated. The overall aim, as stated by the council, is to develop a new cultural and tourist resource that expands the current offer whilst placing Vera in the panorama of conference tourism that is linked to culture and her itage.
LOCAL NEWS CLOCKS BACK ON Sunday October 29 at 03.00, Day light Saving Time ends and the clocks will be turned back one hour to 02.00. There will be more light in the morning, however the dark nights will be drawing in.
NIBS EXTRA Concert off THERE was a last minute cancellation of ‘El Ultimo Ke Zierre’s’ performance at the 38th edition of Rock Albox due to one of the musicians injuring his left hand. Tickets were refunded but some so cial media users were not satisfied and responded with the ‘angry emoji’.
Lovely lights THE ‘Poetry by Candlelight’ evening in Vera was thor oughly enjoyed by all who attended. Vera Town Hall thanked “both musicians and our local poets, for their great performances and in terpretations as well as for their commitment to the project.” Attendees com mented on social media how magical the evening was.
Book reading THERE will be a presentation of the latest children’s book ‘The School of the Cliff and Mystery of the Paintings’ by Noelia Pérez Ponce with il lustrations by Sara del Arco. It will take place on Friday October 27 at 8pm at the ‘Regio’ Municipal Cinema Theatre, located on Radio Nacional street in Vera.
Video contest THE Institute of Almeria Studies has launched a ‘cul tural video contest’ for any one between 18 and 30 years old that is captivated by new technologies. It con sists of the creation of an original and unpublished video made with any cam era which should not exceed two minutes. The deadline is October 30. Those interested can find more information at www.dipalme.org .
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Introducing AI 102
YOUR EWN HAS
ON Thursday, October 19, as part of its Retail Trade Sup port Programme, the Vera Council hosted a course enti tled Let AI Do The Word: How To Save Time In your Publica tions With Artificial Intelli gence. The learning programme, which was aimed at all en trepreneurs and businesses in the municipality, was free of charge and aimed to help stu dents use AI in a practical, ev eryday form. Some 20 local business people spent two very fruitful hours that morning at the As sembly Hall of the Bayra
STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION
Beach excursion Credit: Vera Council
RETAIL COURSE: The class of 20 who attended.
House of Culture, Youth and Childhood and learned how to explore and discover a number of different forms of AI and how to apply these to digital marketing as well as in
Rock and Roll Festival THE festival ‘Rock Albox’ rocked the region last week end and united hundreds of rock fans of all nationali ties. Celebrating its 38th edition, it is one of the most es tablished and wellknown festivals in the area, which brings together many fans of rock music and gives space to a genre that can sometimes hold a bad repu tation. This year’s lineup was made up of ‘Benito Kamelas’, ‘El Lilo’ and ‘Sin tip Rock and Roll’. Rock AlboxFest also had a free camping and cara van area for those who wanted to stay and spend the entire weekend enjoying the wild and wonderful at mosphere.
creasing efficiency in any busi ness. Perhaps, as may have been anticipated, most of those at tending the course were rela tively young and were proba
bly quite well versed in use of the web and social media, but needed to understand the versatility of Artificial Intelli gence and how it could possi bly help them.
Red-handed Credit: Wikipedia
HASHISH: Hefty sentences are being requested.
TWO Almeria citizens have been caught redhanded with 1,200 kilos of the drug, hashish. The two men from Adra and Almeria City were inter cepted in November 2021 on a boat with 1,200 kilos of hashish, an amount which would have reached a market value of €2.3 million. It is accused that they in tended to distribute the drug in Granada, an accusation that they will be tried for next November at the Provincial Court. The Granada Prosecu tor’s Office has requested hefty sentences of five and a half years behind bars and fines of a whopping €6.9 mil lion. After a warning from the Service Operational Centre about the erratic sailing of a suspicious boat, the accused smugglers were intercepted in
front of the beach of La Rabi taAlbuñol by the Maritime Service of the Guardia Civil. The two defendants are currently on provisional re lease and will be tried on November 24. Sheesh!
ON the morning of October 19, the may or of Antas, Pedro Ri dao, accompanied the senior residents of the Antas Day Cen tre on a new excur sion, this time to the beach! After breathing the crisp sea air and en joying the beautiful views, they were all treated to a delicious meal together. The mayor stated that it was “a great satisfaction to be able to enjoy with them these small moments that make them get out of their usual routine and that they greatly ap preciate.” Gratitude was ex pressed on social me dia by Antas Town Hall to the ‘Faam team’ and to the Red Cross who provided volunteers for this wholesome event.
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THE schoolchildren of Mo jacar have celebrated the birthday of Mickey Mouse, alongside the anniversary of the Disney Factory, on Octo ber 16. In the Plaza del Parterre in Mojacar, the legend about here being the possi ble birth of Walt Disney in Mojacar comes to life more than ever, as young pupils
from Bartolome Flores School have enjoyed the reading of various stories in celebration of the birthday of Mickey Mouse and the Disney Factory. They even received two very special guests for the occasion, Mickey and Min nie themselves! As they listened in de light, they were extremely
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
Walt Disney mural.
excited to find out that, just like them, the famous Walt Disney was actually (proba bly) from Mojacar. This idea for this funfilled day came from head of the
Department of Children, Ed ucation and Culture, Noemí Linares, to promote and cel ebrate the possible connec tion of Disney with Mojacar. Alongside this there is a mural depicting the story of his birth and the departure with his mother to the Unit ed States displayed on one of the walls of the Bar tolome Flores school. A gi ant Mickey Mouse is also painted on the public library and gives a welcome to the village which now proudly pays a tribute to him.
Credit: Marian Leon
Mickey Mouse’s birthday! BIOGAS PLANT: The plant will create 40 new jobs.
Exciting times ALMERIA will soon become the home of an extensive bio gas plant which will stand as the most southern plant of its kind in Europe. This project in volves an investment of a mas sive €12 million, generating 40
PROVERB OF THE WEEK “Knowledge is power.” Meaning the more you know, the more powerful you can be in your life. This phrase is often attributed to Francis Bacon, but Thomas Jefferson also used the phrase on at least four separate occasions.
new jobs in the process. The plant plans to handle 95,000 tons of agricultural waste that will then be converted into re newable gas. It is exciting times for renew able energy around the globe, and the capital of Almeria is jumping on board. The project, called Bioreciric, was present ed in Almeria on Monday Oc tober 23 in the barrio of Cuevas de los Medina. The mayor, María del Mar Vazquez, thanked the pro moters for choosing Almeria “for this determined commit ment to future that will try to provide a solution to the envi ronmental problem of agricul tural waste, at the same time as it will provide a source of 100 per cent renewable ener gy generation of Andalucian origin.” Following this, Administra tor Luis Sánchez expressed his pride in the project “which will allow us in the future to im prove waste management and move towards a true cir cular economy, for the benefit of the entire Almerian soci ety.” These plans definitely don’t seem to be a waste of time, as companies in the area will also greatly benefit from adequate waste treatment, as well as a reduction in fertiliser costs.
4 Only four words in the English language end in ‘dous’.
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THE long awaited Feria de Todos Los Santos will be gin on Friday, October 27 here in Albox. The doors will open at 9.30pm and the incredible Paco Can dela will perform at 10.30pm. Just before midnight the orchestra will give a performance, as delicious food and drink are served from nu merous stands through out the night. The following day, Sat urday October 28, the fe ria will continue with many attractions as well as the ‘Queen and Ladies of the Feria Pageant Pre sentation’ which will be presented on stage with music and dancing to fol low. On Sunday October 29 the orchestra will play again, before a busy day of events the next day, Monday October 30 that involve ‘Chocolate and Churros’ breakfast at 10am, a magical chil dren’s show at 5.30pm
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Albox
Feria de Todos Los Santos
ALBOX FERIA: There will be many activities to enjoy.
and more musical perfor mances in the evening. Another busy day at the Feria on Tuesday Oc tober 31, where compli mentary traditional Span ish paella will be offered alongside many sweet treats. There will also be comedy acts, dances and the orchestra on the stage throughout the day. The students of the town will then be recog nised for their achieve ments in an official pro cession. Finally, the Feria will bid adios on Wednesday November 1, with a day of funfilled children’s ac
tivities and an ultimate music show, ‘Black Suit’. Thursday will then surely be spent relaxing after all the excitement!
THE Mojacar Municipal Music Band visited Valencia for a four day, actionpacked trip. In appreciation for all their hard work, Mojacar Council once again organised the ex cursion for 40 of the young musicians, who were accom panied by the director of the Municipal Music Band, Miguel Angel Miranda and a monitor, as well as the Mojacar mayor, Francisco Garcia Cerda. The locations of the trip in cluded Gandia where they vis ited a theme park, Valencia in which they did some shopping in the historical old town and explored the museum, and fi nally Guadalest in Alicante
LOCAL NEWS
Valencia visit Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
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FOUR DAY TRIP: Band On Tour!
Province, where a special stop was made as this symbolic town is more than 1,000 years old.
Following these wellde served days of rest, the talent ed youngsters will now return to their busy routine.
Migrants rescued THE government has transferred 321 immigrants from the Canary Is lands to a hotel in Almeria after the influx of souls seeking a safe place continues. On Tuesday, October 24, 321 mi grants arrived in Almeria who were rescued in recent days in the
Atlantic waters whilst trying to get to the Canary Islands. It has been reported that they have been housed in a hotel in the El Toyo urbanisation, which is lo cated in the city of Almeria, and are being assisted by volunteers. As many deaths are recorded
during these treacherous journeys, these immigrants are counted as the lucky ones. However, due to rising tensions worldwide and many countries en gulfed in violent turmoil, the num ber of those desperate to escape only continues to rise.
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26 October - 1 November 2023
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
38TH EVENT: Running the race!
Juan Manuel Tejada, from the Sur Este Athletics Club, took home the winners title from the men’s race, with sec ond place being awarded to Antonio Jesús Hernández, and in third place came Alberto Fernández. The winner of the women’s race Veteran B category was Gail Corville. Remedios Mar tines finished in second place and Isabel Guevara came third. In the senior women’s race, Alejandra Bohorquez emerged victorious whilst in the senior men’s race it was Jesús Hernández who finished first. The female Veteran A category saw Remedios
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Food for thought
Mojacar Race Runners MOJACAR celebrates its 38th Popular Race with an excel lent day of sport. The Plaza Nueva in Mojacar was home to the 38th Mo jacar Popular Race last week end, as many participated in this excellent sporting event. The race was organised by Mojacar Council and the Com munity Sport Company, who specialise in sporting events. With categories for men and women of all ages, the Plaza, which is in the heart of the locality’s old town, was filled with an electrifying at mosphere, as runners, family members and onlookers ea gerly awaited the race to get under way. A stream of multi colours could be seen on en trance to the square, with ev erybody proudly sporting their gear! The main event had a route of 9,100 metres and a total as cent of 204 metres. The race began in Plaza Nueva before it descended on to the beach, at which point it circled back to the Plaza again to cross that ohsoawaited finish line!
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Martínez as the winner and in the male Veteran category it was Juan Manuel Tejada. The winners in Category B Veterans were Pedro Jesús and Valdivia Shirrlem Bahl. The Mojacar Town Council had donated the trophies that the Sports councillor, Jesus Montoya Gredila, who com mented that he was im pressed with the quality seen at the race, presented to the winners following their victo ries. The younger athletes all received a medal for their par ticipation and spectacular sporting spirit! The event was such a suc cess many were already en quiring about next year.
ON Monday October 16, World Food Day was ob served internationally to commemorate the founding date of the United Na tions Food and Agriculture Or ganisation in 1945. It is now cel ebrated by over 150 countries who participate in marathons, exhibi tions, contests and con certs, all concentrating on raising funds and aware ness of the issues behind hunger and poverty world wide. So, it’s kind of a big DILL. To get involved with World Food Day 2023, con sider supporting local food banks by volunteering time or donating nonperishable items to those in need. Below is a list of some lo cal food banks in the Alme ria area.
Church or directly at the Evan gelical Church in Turre.
Credit: Arboleas Community Facebook
World Food Day.
Zurgena Food Bank Donations can be made at Sunday Worship at Llanos del Peral Church or any time at the donation point in CATS services in La Alfoquia. Turre Food Bank Donations can be made at Sunday Worship at Mojacar
Albox South American Church Food Bank Donations can be made at the monthly Aljam bra chapel ser vice or directly at the Centro de Adoración Cielos Abiertos in Albox op posite the Peugeot garage/next to Wave lengths. Information about food bank donations are also regu larly posted on each church’s Facebook page. Self educating about global food challenges, food insecuri ty and sustainable agriculture is also important as spreading awareness is key and begins a global solution that starts with each individual. It will feel GRAPE to con tribute to such an EGGcellent day!
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LOCAL NEWS
UD Almeria miss the mark THE highly anticipated ‘La Liga’ football match of Girona vs UD Almeria was played on Sunday October 22 at the Power Horse Sta dium in Almeria. The home team, who currently sit at the bottom of the table, were the clear underdogs as they faced Girona, who are sec ond in the league at the moment. In a shocking start, Almeria went 10 up after just two minutes played! With Leo Baptistao claim ing the goal after a blun der from the Girona goal keeper. UD Almeria stayed on top and in the 24th minute Baptistao scored another! The crowd went wild in delight! The under dogs clearly dominated the first half an hour of the game. In the 37th minute,
Credit: Carlos Barba / EFE
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GAME PLAN: Manager Alberto Lasarte needs to rethink.
Girona pulled one back, with Ivan Martin scoring a glimmer of hope goal for the visiting team. Two minutes later, Artem Dovbyk flaunted some fancy footwork and scored an equaliser for Girona. Two goals in two minutes, “is it all going downhill?” the panicked Almeria fans began to wonder. The answer was yes, as disaster struck with the visitors scoring three more goals against the home
team, Dovbyk again at 43 minutes, Savio at 71 min utes and a final nail in the coffin by Christhian Stuani in the 85th minute of the game in which the tables had turned so swiftly. Following the match, UD Almeria now stay at the bottom of the table, whilst Girona continue to reside in second place. Oh dear, perhaps Alme ria manager, Alberto Lasarte, needs to change his game plan!
A Handsome home A MOJACAR home, designed by architect Alberto Campo Baeza in collaboration with Modesto Sanchez Morales, an Almeria company of architects, is now a candidate for the European Union Contemporary Ar chitecture prize. The home, located in Mojacar village, has been selected as a candidate for the prestigious award from 362 of the most outstanding architectural works from 38 different European countries. Of these 362, 29 are located all around the Spanish peninsula with this one being here in Mo jacar.
The award aims to recognise the best ar chitectural works constructed in Europe that were completed between April 2021 and May 2023. Alongside this, it also high lights the usefulness of the property and its integration into the natural surrounding environment. Architect Alberto Campos has been a professor of projects for more than 30 years at the Madrid School of Architecture and has given lectures all over the world, whilst also receiving various awards for his work. Fingers crossed this one’s a winner!
Humorous Halloween Mojacar THE municipality of Mo jacar will celebrate Hal loween on Friday, Octo ber 27 with an incredible perilous party! It will be held at the Multiple Use Center and the festivities will begin at 6pm. The town is no stranger to this haunted holiday celebration and joins the large number of munici
palities in the province that will celebrate it as well. This year however, there is a slight difference in the name of the event, with ‘Jaliween Mojácar’ being chosen to add a hint of humour to the festivi ties as it is under the or ganisation of the AMPA, ‘El Jali’, from the Bar tolomé Flores School.
At the Halloween cele bration you will find the terrifying tunnel of terror, a panic room, tables full of sweets and drinks and a long anticipated cos tume contest, where the mayor of the town will present the first prize. It looks like this event might even be too GHOUL for the school?
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Is it time to consider downsizing your home? Spain offers fantastic property opportunities in outstanding surroundings, so it is unsurprising that many Britons choose to retire to their own place in the sun. Property may be your biggest asset, with the potential to provide a substantial return on your initial investment over time. For many, their home is also a legacy to help secure the financial future of children and other heirs. However, there are risks in relying on bricks and mortar for your wealth. You cannot fully realise the financial benefits of a property while you are still living in it. Compared to other investments, property can also prove very costly to maintain.
protect against long-term inflation and provide the increased income you may need in the future as the cost of living rises?
a reduced or limited income, this can be draining on your resources, particularly if you own more than one property.
Size does matter Generally, the larger the property, the more expensive the running costs. Mortgage payments, rates, utility bills, building and maintenance expenses can all add up to generate a relatively high ongoing burden. If you are retired with
Affording retirement With today’s increased life expectancy, you may need your existing wealth to stretch to ten, twenty, or perhaps thirty plus years in retirement. Are your pensions, savings and investments on track to sustain your lifestyle for as long as you need? Are they structured to
By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks
Many people find themselves in an ‘asset rich, cash poor’ situation, owning considerable physical wealth such as property but with substantially less disposable income. Expatriates may additionally hold on to UK property. While property can be a solid investment, it locks your money away in a highly illiquid way. If you want access to your capital, you may not be able to sell easily, nor for the right price. Also, there is risk in tying your funds up in one asset class – if the value of property drops, so does your investment. Property may offer potential leveraging opportunities, but this comes with costs and risks.
vestment growth. By reinvesting in suitable investment funds, for example, you can still invest in real estate if you wish but alongside other assets (equities, bonds etc.) to reduce risk through diversification. And, unlike immoveable property, if you require small amounts of cash you can just sell the amount you need, not the whole investment. A specialist adviser can help you explore investment arrangements that suit your circumstances, goals and risk appetite while being tax-efficient for Spain. You could also unlock other benefits that property cannot offer, such as a regular income and currency flexibility. When it comes to estate planning, there are more opportunities to reduce succession tax for your heirs on investment capital than with real estate.
Benefits of reinvesting your capital Downsizing property can help increase your accessible wealth, but it needn’t be a compromise when it comes to in-
Reducing taxation Higher-value homes can tip you over the threshold for Spanish wealth tax, as well as increasing the inheritance tax bill for your heirs. There are
generally more opportunities to reduce wealth tax on capital investments than on immoveable property. By reducing the amount of tax payable, you can make your money go further in your lifetime and maximise the value of your legacy. Take personalised, cross-border advice to establish an investment and estate planning strategy that can secure a secure retirement for you in Spain today and a lasting legacy for future heirs.
Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; individuals should seek personalised advice.
Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com.
Studio robbery RECENTLY the Vava Yoga Stu dio in Vera was broken into and robbed. The event came as a huge shock to owner Dario Martin, who Euro Weekly News spoke to following the crime.
“I never expected this living here. Vera is a lovely town where everybody knows ev erybody, it always felt so safe.” Dario explained that he received a phone call from
the Local Police who told him to come down to the studio immediately and were waiting for him on his arrival. The front door had been completely smashed in and shattered glass lay every where and when he entered the yoga studio, he discov ered that the computer moni tor was hanging down and re alised that the cash register had been stolen. He explained that he now feels “foolish for leaving the €100 float in there.” Dario suggested that the scene appeared to be more like a “drug fuelled rage” than a simple robbery, as beauty cases were ripped open and their contents strewn every where, even the biscuits had been eaten. Luckily, Dario Martin, his wife and the team at the stu dio have not let this beat them, and they continue to open their standard hours and with their scheduled classes.
euroweeklynews.com ALMERIA City has given the green light to the Low Emis sions Zone. In January, Almeria City will establish its Low Emis sions Zone (ZBE) in which there will be limited access to ‘polluting’ vehicles that are older and without an en vironmental label. From 2025, sanctions of up to €200 will be imposed with those who commit more than three violations of the same nature within a period of one year facing fines up to €260 per offence. However, this has been faced with criticism from the PSOE. They have stated that they consider the mobility actions adopted by the gov ernment to be lax. The coun
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Going green Credit: Wikipedia
10 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
LOW EMISSIONS: Cars create fumes.
cillor of security has re sponded by insisting that this ordinance “is more in line with legal and regulato ry parameters than with the fact that Almeria, open to the sea, is today a city in which we have significant pollution problems.”
Vehicles that hold the en vironmental label, bicycles and those for personal mo bility will be able to access the ZBE, as well as vehicles that provide emergency ser vices, public transport, public services and delivery vehi cles.
Halloween in Albox ALBOX celebrate the haunting holiday of Halloween on Wednesday 25 October. Young and old alike were invited to dress up in their creepiest costumes and take to the streets of Albox on this eerie evening, located from Plaza San Francisco de la Loma up to Plaza Miras Carras co. The festivities began at 6pm with a ‘Kronos Zumba’ dance, alongside bouncy castles for the smaller souls and a costume competition. Frightening food stands at the event offered donuts, candy floss and roasted chestnuts with a ‘trick or treat’ game also being played which resulted in copious amounts of sweets for the children!
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Happy Halloween DOUBLE, double, toil and trouble, fire burn and caul dron bubble! Oh yes fel low earth bound souls, the ghostly eve of Halloween is nigh! With the sudden change in weather feeling posi tively witchy, it seems that the stormy stage for this haunted holiday has been set here in Spain. The modern day Hal loween, which is celebrat ed on October 31 around the world, holds its roots in the ancient Celtic festi val of Samhain, a Gaelic
word pronounced ‘SAH win’. This pagan festival was held around Novem ber 1, a date that marked the transition from the au tumn harvest season to the darker days of winter. It is around this time of the year that it was be lieved and is still be lieved for many who con tinue to honour Samhain that the veil between the land of the living and the depths of the dead is at its most thin. A time where the souls of the deceased revisited the earthly realm and roamed it freely with un known intentions. Feasts were held, where places were set and food was of fered to departed souls of family members. The pagan gods were al so honoured, with offer ings of drink and livestock in a bid to appease them and ensure that their ani
Have some spooky fun.
mals survived throughout the wretched winter. There were also sacred bonfires that burned throughout the night of Samhain, as they were be lieved to have special cleansing and protecting powers. As Christianity swept through Europe and The Isles, traditional pagan cel ebrations were viciously repressed by the church and its enforcers. In the ninth century the western church endorsed November 1 as the date of All Saints’ Day. In part, this was to present this time of year as one of love rather than ‘superstitious’ fear, stressing that those who die in Christ have their souls forever in the loving family of God. However, the oppres sion against any contra dicting beliefs to the new religion, especially those of the pagan gods, was in tense in this period, and by creating a new celebration on this date it intended to secure the complete eradi cation of Samhain and its ‘radical’ beliefs. Today, Halloween is cel ebrated as a funfilled fes tival where children and adults alike dress up in costumes, carve pump kins, go trickortreating, tell scary stories and eat copious amounts of sweets. But these modern customs are all deeply
steeped in spiritual tradi tions. For example, the idea of ‘trick or treating’ comes from the door to door travelling of the poor, who would beg for food in return for songs and prayers. This was referred to as ‘souling’ and the children were called ‘soulers’. A typical food given to these soulers was a ‘soul cake’, with a holy cross marked on top that represented a soul being freed when it was eaten. These were sweet treats, made with ginger, raisins and nutmeg. The creepy costumes that modern celebrators wear on Halloween come from the ancient desire to hide a person’s attendance at pagan festivals or to mask the energy of the wearer to allow for better communication with the spirit world. Costumes were also sometimes used to ward off evil spirits from entering the body. Thankfully society is now much more accepting of different beliefs and so all are free to celebrate Halloween loud and proud, with many religious people of varied ideas still enjoying this frightening festival! Whatever way you choose to celebrate, Euro Weekly News wishes all a weird and wonderful night, with many happy hauntings!
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CYCLIST Pablo Jarmaillo has dedicated his bronze medal, that he won in the Glasgow World Cup, to his home province Almeria. The medal was won in the team speed test last August with the Spanish Paralympic Track Team, and Jarmaillo, who is from Los Gallardos, now holds an impressive record of achievements. He has recently been re ceived at the Moises Ruiz Sports Pavilion by the Vice President and deputy for Sports and has stated that this made him extremely proud. Jaramillo obtained this new medal with his teammates, Ricardo Ten and Alfonso Cabello, and in celebration he has de clared that it is dedicat ed to the entire province of Almeria. Pablo has said that he will continue to intensify
Credit: Pablo Jarmaillo Facebook
Cyclist bags bronze
Pablo Jarmaillo in action!
his preparation and that he and his team are in excellent shape. He went on to say that the World
1882 The year work started on Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
Cup medal makes them very optimistic about preparing for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games where they will arrive with the illusion of win ning a medal again. The Vice President of the Provincial Council thanked the cyclist for his commitment to the province of Almeria through inclusive sport and for sharing this achievement with all the people of Almeria. He stated that “Pablo Jaramillo is an example and reason for admira tion for all sport lovers, thanks to him, the name of Almeria resonates strongly throughout the world through his suc cesses. We wish him good luck in his prepara tion and in the upcoming competitions.” It looks like this Span ish sportsman isn’t hit ting the brakes anytime soon!
Fully equipped p open p p plan kitchen working well withhe rest of the house.
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LOCAL NEWS
THE PSOE has presented the map of ‘inequality’ in the Almeria ambulance service. Juan Antonio, the general secretary of the PSOE of Almeria has released the controversial provincial map of the distribution of
ambulances made by the government of Juanma Moreno. This map seeming ly confirms the existence of ‘inequalities’ between the different populations as type A1 medical emergency vehicles are assigned to
some and socalled type C are assigned to others. The entire fleet of vehi cles that provides emergen cy service in Almeria was ac quired two years ago in a contract that involved an in vestment of over €100 mil lion. There has been an an nouncement that this com ing week, the Minister of Health will face demands for explanations, with many claiming that the money in vested by the government ‘is enough so that in Almeria
we would all have the same level of assistance’. Many reports of ‘ambu lance cases’ have recently emerged, which are inci dents that have led to sev eral emergency vehicles ar riving up to 40 minutes late to attend to an emergency situation. Sadly, in three of these cases, the ambulance arrived when the patient had already died. “From the PSOE of Alme ria, every week we have to report a specific case of Juanma Moreno’s lack of
Credit: PSOE Website
Emergency service inequality
AMBULANCE MAP: Confirms existence of inequalities.
management capacity in the province,” stated Juan Antonio before he went on to explain that the Minister of Health is focused on irrel
It’s all up in the air! EXTRA flights have been added for Almeria during the Christmas period. Air Nostrum, the leading regional aviation company in Spain, has boosted the air connection between Almeria and Mallorca for the winter holidays. Due to the great reception that this sale of extra
flights has had, the company has also added further new frequencies to its general calendar. Air Nostrum officially announced for December 30 that an added frequency would be in operation be-
tween Son Sant Joan and Almeria, which was already on six frequencies and had already improved by 44 per cent compared to the previous year. As the song (kind of) goes… flying home for Christmas!
American from Almeria AN American TikTok user has rated her favourite tapas dishes from her experience of living in Almeria. The social media user ‘Lauren Oglesbee (@lo_oglesbee) who’s partner is from Almeria stated that after living in the region for five years, she had to share her views. She stated that ham croquettes and galician style octopus are among her favourite dishes, before revealing that patatas bravas were way down on her list. She then urged her fellow Americans to ditch the donuts and come to try it for themselves!
Over the limit A LORRY driver from Almeria who had an expired licence was arrested in Soria. At the time of arrest he was found to be a staggering five times over the legal limit to drive. The man, aged 57, is from Almeria and has been arrested under the accusation that his blood alcohol level was five times above the permitted limit. At the time he was reported to have been transporting medicines worth up to €220,000 in his vehicle. The dangerous event occurred at just past 1pm on October 17. A Guardia Civil patrol who was located on the A-15 highway (Medinaceli-Pamplona) noticed a vehicle that was travelling at an abnormally reduced speed and in an irregular manner, apparently swerving to and from each lane on the road. At this point, the driver was stopped and subjected to a breathalyser test which then revealed the shocking results. The Guardia Civil has verified that there was an arrest warrant for the man from the Court of First Instance and luckily this dangerous driver is now off the roads.
evant issues that barely ex ist. Further actions await.
Almanzora Friends THE Almanzora Group of Friends send a very big thank you to Marian Nobbs for her recent demonstration on painting with water colours. Those who attended said that it was very interesting and amazing how the scenery within the painting gradually came to life and they look forward to seeing the finished painting on display in the library very soon. Marian has said that she will do a further demonstration in the New Year, around February time, so the organisers of the group hope that many members can join them next time and even if you don’t paint yet, the demonstration will certainly give you inspiration to have a go. Before that however, John Fry has kindly agreed to host another quiz upstairs at their English Library and Social Centre on Wednesday November, 15 starting at 11am. Entry will be free for members and €2 for nonmembers, so get your teams together for another fun morning at Plaza San Antonio, Albox happy in the knowledge that light refreshments will be supplied on the day. Please send an email to almanzorafriends@ gmail.com with names and team names by Wednesday, November 8.
NEWS
euroweeklynews.com
26 October - 1 November 2023
Smashing Pumpkins YOUNG children in the town of Kurdějov in the Czech Republic were distraught when they woke up one morning to discover that the pumpkin lanterns they had carved had been destroyed. They had prepared these miniature works of art for a Pumpkin and Lantern Parade in the run up to Hal loween and what had been a joyful event at tracting many children and adults turned into an example of wanton vandalism. Undaunted, more jackolanterns were prepared and again they were destroyed overnight by the anony mous pumpkin hater. This wasn’t a case of local fans of American band Smashing Pump kins being unusually creative but a genuine example of what ap peared to be a heart less strike against the local children with many locals turning to social media to call the vandal a coward who should own up. Surpris ingly enough he did in a letter written to the town mayor and even more surprisingly, it turned out that the lo cal priest Jaromír Sme
Carly Lesser & Art Drauglis Creative Commons
WORKS OF ART: Miniature Jack-o-Lanterns.
jkal accepted responsi bility. In his letter he said “On leaving the parson age on Sunday evening, I saw numerous sym bols of the satanic holi day [Halloween], which was born in today’s pa ganised world as a counterweight to our approaching All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day, placed in front of our sacred grounds. “I acted according to my faith and duty to be a father and protector of entrusted children and removed the sym bols.” Once he discov ered that these weren’t symbols of the devil scattered around the town by worshippers of Satan but were carved in innocence by chil dren, he relented some what and commented “Had I known this, de spite my duty to act de
cisively and radically against evil, I would have considered the fact that I am also touching the feelings of my fellow men, espe cially children.” The matter didn’t rest there and Pavel Kafka, the vicar general of the Ro man Catholic Diocese of Brno told Břeclavský deník “Of course, I am sorry for the unfortu nate situation in Kur dějov, which I also ex pressed in a written apology addressed to the mayor and repre sentatives of the vil lage.” So, it appears that al though Halloween is not widely celebrated in the Czech Republic, the children of Kur dějov will be free to go trick or treating on Oc tober 31 without fear of damnation from their parish priest.
Electric ships on the Thames THE first of three new electric ferries has been launched on the River Thames in London. A hybrid system allows the new ships to transport commuters and tourists solely using battery power. It is not only the first but also the largest hybrid unit in passenger trans port on the Thames. It is 40 metres long, almost the length of two interconnected tennis courts, and can accommodate 230 passengers. Battery recharging is provided for us ing energy from biofuelpowered en gines which gives a nearly 90 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to when operating solely on conventional marine diesel. “We not only want to use the most ad vanced technology to reduce our carbon
footprint, but also play our part in open ing up new opportunities to maximise the development of this technology,” stressed Sean Collins, cofounder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. The Thames is cruised by ferries built in Poland. Located in Gdańsk, Remon towa Shipbuilding Shipyard built plugin hybrid vessel ferries carrying passengers and cars between the banks of the Thames more than five years ago. The passengercar ferries, which are more than 60 metres long, have a load line of about 210 metres. They can take on board 150 passen gers and 45 cars. They were built at the Remontowa Shipbuilding shipyard of Gdańsk following an order from Trans port for London.
EWN 15
16 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
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Two vessels escorted away
Credit: Spanish Ministry of Defence.
RAYO: The Spanish BAM maritime action vessel.
A SPANISH ship intercepted a Russian submarine and a tug boat that were transiting the western Mediterranean Sea to the south of the Balearics. According to a statement from the Defence Staff (EMAD), the maritime incident occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, October 11. The Kilo II class submarine and the ‘Sergey Balk’ tugboat were detected by the Spanish maritime action ship ‘Rayo’. It reportedly escorted the two vessels until they left the area, which was said to be close to the Spanish Exclusive Econom ic Zone (EEZ). It was emphasised by Spain’s Ministry of Defence that at no time did either ves sel enter Spanish territorial wa ters. They were however sail ing in waters of Spanish interest, which Spain has the responsibility of monitoring. The escort process that was carried out was routine and is used for all ships that approach these areas of interest. On October 1, the ‘Rayo’ was integrated into the Mar itime Operational Command,
under the operational control of the Operations Command (MOPS). Until the interception of the Russian vessels, its mission was that of Maritime Surveillance Operations. This consists of maritime traffic verification and control activities, the su pervision of fishing activity within the limits of the EEZ and the protection of maritime lines of communication in the said area of interest. Kiloclass submarines are a group of dieselelectric attack submarines that were original ly built in the 1970s for the So viet Navy, entering operational service in 1980. Their design was updated to a variant called Project 636.3, which is also known as the Im proved Kilo II. These latest subs can reportedly launch up to four Kalibr cruise missiles.
NEWS
Orange TV link IF you have an Apple TV box in Spain then you will shortly be able to add Orange TV for your viewing pleasure. Lovers of Spanish football will see a benefit as Orange offers an alternative source of viewing LaLiga EA Sports and LaLiga Hypermotion as well as supplying coverage of all UEFA Champions League and Europa League games. Its TV service consists of more than 100 chan nels which include movies, there is access to Spain’s digitalterrestrial TV service and the ex pected ondemand with some 50,000 videos or episodes from TV around the world. There is an added bonus as it plans to also of fer two new channels via Apple TV, one provid ed by LaLiga which is essentially a general sports channel and the other covering interests of a nautical nature. With so many different options available, it could become very expensive to sign up for ev ery option which could include Netflix, Disney, Paramount+, Sky, Orange, Movistar, Apple, Amazon, Dazn and no doubt many others still to come.
Justice Minister resigns BELGIAN Justice Minister, Vincent Van Quickenborne, has quit following a ‘monu mental error’ that resulted in the brutal killing of two peo ple in Brussels.On Friday Oc tober 20, Vincent Van Quick enborne, Justice Minister of Belgium, officially stepped down from his position after it was revealed that the hor rific shooting and killing of two Swedish nationals in Brussels could have been pre vented.
Credit: Remko de Waal
Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne.
The victims were gunned down on Monday October 16 on the Boulevard d’Ypres north of Brussels city centre by self proclaimed Islamic ex tremist, Abdesalem Las soued. Lassoued, who was shot dead by police the day fol lowing the murders, had van ished two years prior after being denied asylum and or dered to be deported back to Tunisia. Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne stated on Fri day morning that “on August 15, 2022, there was an extra dition demand by Tunisia for this man,” he then continued to explain that “the magis trate in charge did not follow up on this demand and the dossier was not acted upon.” However, his decision to resign was by reason of his belief that he “must assume all the political responsibility for this unacceptable error.” Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called the shooting a “brutal terrorist at tack” and offered respect for the courage of the Minister on the social media platform, X. The attack came as extrem ist violence cases continue to rise amid global tension over the Israel and Palestine war.
18 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
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NEWS
NODDY HOLDER, the iconic frontman of the British rock band Slade, has been given six months to live following a throat cancer diagnosis. According to an article published in the British Press on Thursday, October 19, by his wife Suzan Hold er, he received the devas tating news five years ago. She revealed how after receiving a brutal prognosis, the 77yearold singer with one of the most instantly recognisable voices in rock had secretly battled the dis ease ever since. Thanks to a new trial of experimental chemotherapy by experts at Manchester’s Christie Hospital, Noddy was even able to perform again earli er this summer after being invited to join Cheshire musician Tom Seals on stage. Recalling the emo tional moment, Suzan said: “I saw a sight I thought I would never see again earli er this year… my incredible husband, back on stage,
Credit: Suzan Holder X (formerly Twitter)
Noddy’s cancer shock
Nick Owen with Suzan and Noddy Holder October 19, 2023.
captivating an audience with hilarious, slightly naughty stories and singing his heart out with a voice still distinctive and power ful. “To watch him do what he does so brilliantly was thrilling, entertaining and profoundly moving,” Suzan wrote. Suzan explained: “We told only immediate close family and friends. They held our hands and kept our confidence. We truly found out who our re al friends are.” Formed in 1966 in the English city of Wolverhampton, during a glittering 25year career, Slade racked up six No1
charttoppers in the UK. Merry Christmas Everybody was their biggest smash. Released in 1973, it has been a regular feature ev ery year in the charts over the festive period. Accord ing to the press, the record, penned by Noddy and Jim Lea, earns a stunning £520,000 annually. He once famously said: “It’s definitely a pension plan, yes. It was never de signed to be that way, but it has taken on a life of its own. It’s been used for ad verts and for movies, it’s been used for all sorts of things.”
Barcelona has the best bar IF you fancy going for a drink at the World’s Best Bar 2023 followed by a nightcap at the fourth Best Bar then Barcelona is the place to visit. Sponsored by Perrier, The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 is an annual competition and this year’s winners were announced in Singapore for the first time on Tuesday October 17. Created in 2009, the top place was reg ularly shared by bars in either London or New York but Barcelona recently started to climb up the table and in 2022, Par adiso took the top spot and now in 2023 another Barcelona bar Sips has taken the accolade (although Paradiso is ranked No.4 this year). Described as an intimate, cuttingedge cocktail bar located in the heart of Barcelona’s Eixample district, Sips was only opened in 2021 following the pan demic but still managed to hit No.37 in that year’s awards. In 2022 it moved up to third place and now after just two years of opening it has been named Best Bar in the World. You must be dedicated to drinking as there are no reservations and no bar to sit at whilst the mixologists led by own ers Simone Caporale and Marc Álvarez work from a circular counter in the mid dle of the room and then deliver the
Credit: Sips Facebook
Simone Caporale and Marc Álvarez of Sips.
cocktails to customers sitting at tables. Speaking about the award, one of the founders Simone Caporale explained “We’re a small bar that opened in very uncertain times, but with a dream to prove that we could do something spe cial.” The top five of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 saw New York’s Double Chick en Please at No.2; Mexico City’s Hand shake Speakeasy at No.3 and London’s Connaught Bar at No.5. Only one other Spanish bar made the top 50 and that was Salmon Guru in Madrid which came in at No.16.
FEATURE
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26 October - 1 November 2023
EWN 19
IN Spain there seems to be more and more reports of wild boar becoming a nuisance in ur ban areas, from rummaging through bins to causing serious accidents on the highway. The latest figures show that Spain’s wild boar population in the provinces of Huesca and Girona, both located in the Pyrenean territories, have seemingly hit their wild boar population peak, writes Pig333. In contrast, regions like Barcelona, Valencia, and Ali cante are experiencing high growth rates, indicating the spread. The majority of other provinces fall into a category of relatively low population in crease but with a potential for growth in the future. Wild Boar Risks Reportedly the problem was exacerbated during the Covid lockdown where due to the ab sence of people on the streets more wild boar strayed into ur ban areas. In 2021 there were 1,200 incidents involving wild boars in Barcelona alone. This year alone there have
Credit: Sander van der Wel/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0
Spain’s wild boar problem: Humane methods or culling?
WILD BOAR: The population has seemingly hit a peak in some areas.
been news reports of wild boar invading popular tourist spots, causing mayhem on beaches. While not a new problem, the frequency of these instances seems to be on the rise. There are also regular reports of wild boar as the root cause of road collisions, some of them fatal for drivers who were
caught out unexpectedly. Again this is nothing new in itself, but something that is becoming a worrying trend. Aside from these issues, there is the littlepublicised problem of disease. The grow ing wild pig population poses significant concerns due to the species’ association with dis
eases, notably African swine fever (ASF). While not a danger to humans, ASF has the poten tial to devastate the domestic pig population, a cause for con cern among livestock farmers and the Spanish economy. Is Culling The Answer? Wild boar do not have any natural predators, apart from wolves in the northern areas of Spain, which leads many to sug gest culling, particularly in Spain’s south. Culling is the act of selectively killing animals, typically to con trol their population or to con tain the spread of disease. Culling has been one of the pri mary methods used in Spain. It’s often done by professional hunters or by local authorities. Those in favour highlight that hunting wild boar is a centuries old tradition in many parts of Spain, so many people view culling simply as a continuation of this tradition. Alternative Solutions While some see culling as the way forward, there is also a segment of the population con cerned about safety, both in
terms of boarhuman interac tions and the methods used for culling, which sometimes in volve firearms in relatively pop ulated areas. Other advocate more hu mane methods such as fencing or spraying chemicals that imi tate the smell of wolf urine. An other option is relocation, but due to their independence on scavenging, some argue that they would not survive back in the wild. This sterilisation method has been considered in some re gions. The idea is to capture and sterilise a certain number of boars to control their repro duction rate. Regarding the nuisance fac tor, authorities have tried to educate the public, usually tourists, about not feeding the boars and securing trash bins to make urban areas less attrac tive to these animals. As the wild boar population continues to grow, public senti ment and potential solutions will play a crucial role in shap ing Spain’s approach to this is sue.
20 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
NEWS
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Sixth London airport?
Credit: Supporters of Manston Airport Facebook
TIME WILL TELL: Manston Airport closed in 2014.
LONDON currently has five main passenger air ports, City, Gatwick, Heathrow, Luton and Stansted, but many will remember the socalled Boris Island sites for a proposed sixth airport which came to nothing. In 2014, the private owner of Manston Airport in Kent decided to close it and there was talk of the entire area, which was first opened as an RAF station in 1916 and saw service in both the First and Second World Wars, being sold to build housing. The Royal Air Force had withdrawn in 1996 and it was run as a commercial airport until its closure with freight, some passenger and pri vate flights taking place regularly. Since its closure, it’s been an overflow lorry park for those taking freight between the UK and France but is now owned by RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP) which reportedly plans to invest up to £500 million in bringing the run ways up to date and to create a new terminal. Government approval has been given for
work to be undertaken to recreate this potential sixth London Airport but it seems probable that local residents will mount a legal challenge to plans to reopen Manston. Assuming they fail, then it is anticipated that there could be commercial freight services oper ating by 2028 and it is argued that it is less pollut ing to fly goods to and from France than to ship the equivalent amount of freight in lorries. If this works, then the next step will be to try to attract passenger airlines to use Manston and this will be helped by the fact that earlier this year, Thanet Parkway Station opened to the public and is just three and half miles away from the airport, so with journey time from London St Pancras just over an hour it should be commer cially viable to build a link to the airport itself. Time will tell and it could be decades before passenger services start again according to a news source, but London may eventually have another air bridge to Spain.
Flu alarm in Italy
THE World Health Organisa tion has raised the alarm about influenza, which will ‘return to prepandemic lev els’ and will peak between December and January. In the meantime, howev er, the ‘paraflu’ viruses, are putting around 80,000 Ital ians to bed every week with fever, colds, coughs and sore throats. In the autumnwinter pe riod, the medical director of the Galeazzi Hospital in Mi lan, Fabrizio Pregliasco, pre dicts that, “there will be around 10 million cases in Italy, which will be added to the five to six million cases of the flu itself.” No vaccines or even anti viruses exist against influen za’s relatives, the ‘paraflu’ viruses. “Infections, there fore, must be eradicated by the immune system and we can only diminish the inten sity of symptoms with anti inflammatories, antihis tamines and mucolytics.
Photo: Shutterstock
INFLUENZA: Is expected to peak later in the year.
“In short, we simply have to wait for it to pass,” added Pregliasco. However, there are very simple precautions that are effective in reducing the risk of infection. For example, “change the air in the room frequently, trying to keep the tempera ture no higher than 25 de grees centigrade, to avoid dryness of the respiratory tract, which makes it easier for the virus to attack,” said
the medical director. For influenza proper, the vaccine is already available in Italy and is free of charge for those from 60 years of age upwards. “Considering that about two weeks elapse after its administration before it takes effect, this is the right time to start getting vacci nated,” explains Pierluigi Bartoletti, deputy secretary of the federation of family doctors.
22 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
DENMARK Schmeichel’s apology DANISH goalkeeper and former Leicester star, Kasper Schmeichel, has publicly apologised for his recent outburst during a game. The 36year-old admitted he ‘went over the line’ and ‘failed to be a role model’ after angrily confronting a ball boy for a delay in returning the ball.
Storm Babet DENMARK is dealing with the aftermath of Storm Babet's destructive rampage. Danish insurance companies are overwhelmed with claims, as the storm wreaked havoc across the nation. The country faced some of the most ferocious storm surges in decades, leaving authorities assessing the widespread damage and its long-term implications.
NORWAY
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EURO PRESS PORTUGAL
Credit: Anton Gvozdikov/Shutterstock.com
Abandoned animals ORGANISATIONS in Portugal are battling animal abandonment with almost 42,000 strays rounded up in the country last year. According to the latest data from the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), 41,994 animals were picked up off the street or delivered to the official collection centres. This figure is down on the 43,603 strays received in 2021.
Terrorist threat PORTUGAL has raised the terrorist threat level in the country from 'moderate' to 'significant'. As announced
GERMANY
EUROPEAN PRESS
IRELAND Unkind remarks ON BBC's Graham Norton Show, its host was forced to offer an apology to Fermoy, a Cork town, after a previous guest's unkind remarks. Despite a minor mistake mentioning Fermoy's famous ‘giant pencil’ landmark, Norton highlighted the town's Tidy Towns achievements which earned applause from the show’s Hollywood celebrities.
Bean memorabilia Stray dogs in a shelter. in a statement from the secretary general of the Internal Security System (SSI), the measure is 'preventive and cautious' in nature. The Security Information Service (SIS), as the entity responsible for threat assessment, suggested there were conditions that justified: 'the change in the degree of terrorist threat in Portugal’.
FRANCE
A DECADE-OLD tin of baked beans, autographed by Irish singer Chris De Burgh, surpassed expectations by selling for £111 at a Northamptonshire auction. De Burgh's daughter, former Miss World Rosanna Davison, humorously advised, “Since the beans are 11 years old, I hope whoever buys them doesn’t plan to eat them.”
THE NETHERLANDS
King Harald
Peace Prize
Another strike
Party party
NORWAY's 86-year-old monarch, King Harald V, has contracted Covid-19, experiencing mild symptoms. The royal household announced, “His Majesty the King has been diagnosed with coronavirus and is on sick leave until he is symptom-free. The king has cold symptoms and stays at home.”
RENOWNED author Salman Rushdie made a rare public appearance, since his attack in August 2022, at the Frankfurt Book Fair on October 22. He was there to discuss his latest novel, ‘Victory City,’ and received the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade.
THE Pompidou Centre in Paris is due to close from 2025 to 2030 and staff are already trying to protect their positions in order to ensure that they are not the losers because of circumstances beyond their control. Basically, they are now on strike and demand security of employment for those five years.
WITH the next General Election in The Netherlands due to take place on Wednesday November 22, the electorate will have to expand its knowledge of the country’s political parties as although there are currently 21 parties in parliament, there will be no less than 26 contesting the election.
Electric domination NORWAY's remarkable journey as the global epicentre of electric cars continues to dazzle. With over 90 per cent of new vehicles now embracing plug-in technology, the nation is obliterating its own EV sales records. In September, motor fuel sales plummeted by 9 per cent, a testament to Norway's commitment to a fossil-free future, years ahead of schedule.
ITALY
Solar power GERMANY's solar energy sector continues its strong growth. In September, the country added 919 MW of photovoltaic capacity. In the first nine months of 2023, a remarkable 10.72 GW of solar capacity joined the grid, surpassing the government's 9 GW target for the year.
BELGIUM
Nutters challenge MONT VENTOUX in Provence has a peak at 1,909 metres and is invariably a stage in the Tour de France cycle race and causes difficulty for even the most hardened cyclist. The real devotees however take part in what is called the ‘Nutters Challenge’ using three different roads to reach the top three times in a day.
FINLAND
Royal Family TWO Dutch political parties GroenLinks and the PvdA narrowly voted at separate annual conferences to add to their manifestos for the November General Election a call to abolish the monarchy, as they consider it both anachronistic and far too expensive for the ceremonial duties that its members carry out.
SWEDEN
Migrants compensated All that glitters
Wife-carrying races
Deadly weapons
THE European Court of Human Rights has ordered Italy to compensate three Tunisian migrants for, what the court considered to be, “inhuman and degrading” treatment they were given when they were held at the reception centre on the island of Lampedusa. Italy now must compensate the three with €5,000 each plus €4,000 for legal expenses, a total of €9,000.
THANKS to new rules introduced by the European Commission, women in Belgium are going to have to be far more selective in choosing certain makeup as any glitter eyeshadow, nail varnish or lip gloss which is not biodegradable and therefore contains microplastic is to be banned from sale although as is often the case there will be a transition period.
IN Sonkajarvi, Finland, the annual 'wifecarrying' contest since 1992 sees men race carrying their spouses over a challenging course. The winner receives their wife's weight in beer. Originating from a 19thcentury gang leader's endurance test, the event symbolises Finland's cultural blend of humour, athleticism, and fighting spirit.
A DEADLY AR-15 type of semi-automatic weapon was used to kill two Swedes and injure a third person in a suspected terror attack in the Belgian city of Brussels. However, these guns have been legal as hunting weapons in Sweden since the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency changed the rules this summer.
Speed kings
Noble Peacemaker
Tennis open
A NEW rule has been introduced in the city of Genk in an effort to discourage motorists from driving too fast following the introduction of 12 new speed cameras. Any driver who manages to get caught over the limit 16 times within three months faces having their car seized and removed for two weeks in order to teach them a lesson.
FORME Finnish president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Martti Ahtisaari, passed away aged 86. Serving from 1994-2000, he played key roles in global peace mediation, from Kosovo to Namibia. Under his leadership, Finland joined the European Union and NATO. His post-presidential venture, Crisis Management Initiative (CMI), showcases his enduring commitment to peace.
AS a result of beating Russia’s Pavel Kotov to win the 2023 Stockholm Open, 37-year-old French tennis veteran Gael Monfils became the oldest winner in the history of the tournament. He previously lifted the title in Sweden back in 2011. It was his first ATP Tour final in 21 months. After being ranked sixth in 2016, Monfils has since fallen to 140th in the world rankings.
Ghost ship A YACHT was found adrift in the open sea with no one on board. One of the engines was running and the cabins in disarray, there were men's clothes. But there is no one on board the boat. This is the mystery of the ghost yacht of Fregene, found last week just off the popular beach for holidaymakers from Rome.
www.vosshomesspain.com
FINANCE Engine failure ROLLSROYCE intends to slash 2,500 jobs, 6 per cent of its global workforce of 42,000, as it moves towards a simpler organisation “fit for the fu ture,” according to chief exec utive Tufan Erginbilgic. The engine manufacturer con firmed that the UK would be the most affected by the plans for staff.
Out to sea THE CSIF union lodged a formal complaint against Spain’s Sal vamento Maritimo sea search and rescue agency, which it ac cused of not respecting its members’ rest periods. The union also said that the agency had stopped paying overtime, a ‘substantial’ and unjustified modification of employees’ work conditions.
Flat fizz LVMH, which owns Moet et Chandon, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, reported a €20 billion third quarter turnover, a 9 per cent rise on the same peri od last year, but lagging behind the second quarter’s 17 per cent. The luxury firm blamed ris ing inflation, global instability and reduced demand for high end drinks.
Helping hand SPAIN’S government would re ceive an extra €5 billion a year if it withdrew energy and food subsidies, it admitted when submitting its Budget proposals to the European Union. At the same time, the report left the door open to the possibility of maintaining some of the mea sures introduced to counteract inflation.
Next move NEXT paid £115.2 million (€132.76 million) for a 97 per cent stake in British fashion firm FatFace. The clothing and lifestyle label is another Next purchase following the acquisi tion of Cath Kidston, JoJo Ma man Bebe, Joules plus a holding in Reiss which it increased to 72 per cent last month.
euroweeklynews.com • 26 October - 1 November 2023
STAT OF WEEK
€205 million ($216 million)
paid to Barcelona genetic therapies company Splice Bio for a licensing and collaboration agreement in the US with Spark Therapeutics, part of multinational Roche.
Unchanged inflation INFLATION in the UK has re mained unchanged at 6.7 per cent in September. Food prices fell for the first time in two years but the inflation rate based on the consumer prices index matched August’s, despite City predictions of a 6.6 per cent fall. Spiralling fuel costs kept up the pressure on house holds, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) fig ures. “There may be some dis appointment out there but we have seen significant falls in headline inflation over the last six months,” ONS’ chief economist, Grant
Photo credit: Rishi Sunak
BUSINESS EXTRA
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RISHI SUNAK: Britain’s PM expects to half inflation this year
Fitzner, told the BBC’s Radio 4 Today programme. Prices for food and non alcoholic drink fell 0.2 per cent in their first monthly dip since September 2021 as supermarkets vied with rivals, cutting prices of sta ples like milk, cheese and eggs, as well as mineral wa
AIR NOSTRUM reported 2022 sales figures of €494.2 million and aggregated pretax profits of €19.6 million. The airline, an independent carrier which operates as an Iberia Airlines franchisee, is out of the red after two years of losses during the pandemic. Speaking at the company’s head quarters in Quart de Poblet (Valencia) on October 17, Air Nostrum’s chief ex ecutive Carlos Bertomeu said that 2022 had been a good year, showing a 51 per cent improved on 2021, owing to the increased demand registered since the second quarter of 2022. “Air Nostrum returns to the path of profits, something it has never aban
ter, soft drinks and fruit juice. Prices were nevertheless higher than in September 2022, with the cost of an av erage family’s food shop 12 per cent higher on an annu al basis. The ONS explained that production cuts by the prin
Flying high Photo credit: CC/Alan Wilson
AIR NOSTRUM: The independent carrier is an Iberia franchisee.
doned, except at the beginning of its operations back in 1994 and in the two great global crises,” Bertomeu said. The number of passengers rose by 55 per cent from 2.8 million in 2021 to 4.4 million in 2022 and in order to cov er the greater demand for seats, the company increased its number of
cipal oilproducing nations have raised global oil costs and would maintain pres sure on fuel prices in coming weeks. Despite the unchanged September rate, economists said inflation would still fall below 5.1 per cent by De cember and meet PM Rishi Sunak’s promise to halve the rate this year. The September inflation rate is important as the gov ernment normally uses this to calculate the following April’s increase in benefits, although Sunak is said to be considering a belowinfla tion rise as the government juggles its public finances.
flights from 46,710 during the previous year to 65,569. This more than doubled the pan demic year and improved Air Nos trum’s load factor, the per centage of available seating capacity occupied by passengers. Bertomeu went on to announce the creation of the Strategic Alliance of Re gional Airlines (SARA), a holding com pany resulting from a strategic union between Air Nostrum and the Irish re gional airline CityJet. Air Nostrum’s parent Air Investment Valencia will own an 80 per cent stake in the new company, with the remain ing 20 per cent allocated to CityJet’s owner, CF Miga Investment Holdings.
New centres
Esteemed clients
Rates apprehension
SPORTS and entertainment multinational Topgolf will open eight new centres in Spain and Portugal. The US company’s €250 mil lion investment will also create 3,800 new jobs, sources close to initiative told the Spanish me dia. After almost two years of ne gotiations, Topgolf has signed an agreement with BAJ Gold Development Iberia, headed by Pablo Juantegui, former presi dent of Telepizza who will devel op the franchise chain in both countries. Private equity fund Manna Capital Partners, led by Ulysses Bridgeman and Kevin Attkisson, will also participate in the com pany.
HIGHER interest rates meant that Span ish banks’ profits per client is at its highest in 15 years. These are based on the difference be tween a bank’s yield on credit and the cost of paying interest on clients’ de posits. This benefited the biggest banks, re vealed The Pulse, the latest report from the Alvarez & Marsal consultancy which placed CaixaBank at the head of the largest entities. According to Alvarez & Marsal, Caixa Bank enjoyed a rentability of 3.2 per cent per client by the end of this year’s second quarter, ahead of BBVA (3.1 per cent) and Santander (3.1 per cent). Bankinter, Unicaja, Ibercaja and Banca ja failed to make the 3 per cent cut with respective ratios of between 2.8 and 2.5 per cent, although the consultancy gave Sabadell 2.9 per cent.
BUSINESS premises’ rates in the UK could rise by £1.95 billion (€2.25 bil lion) next year. Increases are linked to the September inflation figure, tradi tionally used to determine the an nual rates’ increase imposed by lo cal councils on retailers, pubs and offices. Spokespeople foresaw that this year’s 6.7 per cent rise would be “the final nail in the coffin” for many businesses. It would “in evitably put renewed pressure on consumer prices,” warned the British Retail Consortium’s Helen Dickinson. Leading retailers including Marks & Spencer, Tesco and Ikea also called on the government to elimi nate the inflationlinked increase from the October autumn budget.
Toyota overtakes Kia CAR sales rose this year, but by the third quarter were still 15.8 per cent below those of prepan demic 2019. Industry analysts predict sales of 900,000 vehicles by the end of 2023 when, for the fourth consec utive year, they will fail to top one million. Spain would usually expect an nual sales of between 1.2 and 1.3 million vehicles, although the last time this figure was reached was in 2019, with the purchase of 1,258,260 cars and offroaders. Meanwhile, sales to private buyers so far this year have topped sales to companies or hire and leasing firms, with Toyota overtaking Kia as the most popu lar make.
Rescue hope FORMER owners of Daily Tele graph, the Barclay family, launched a £1 billion (€1.95 billion) bid to scupper rivals’ hopes of snapping up the broadsheets. According to Sky News, Abu Dhabi investors will assist the Bar clays in lodging a decisive offer that should write off their debt to the Lloyds Banking Group. This, the family hopes, will pre vent potential bidders, said to in clude hedge fund billionaire Sir Paul Marshall, German media giant Axel Springer and Daily Mail owner, Lord Rothermere from acquiring the Daily Telegraph, Sunday Tele graph and Spectator when they are auctioned off for an estimated £600 million (€692 million).
Three’s company VODAFONE and Three insisted their proposed £15billion (€17.3 billion) merger would not increase prices although it would reduce the number of their competitors. The Unite union told MPs on the Business and Trade Committee that merging both companies “would be bad” for consumers al though Three’s legal team main tained there were “no mergerre lated price rises” in the firms’ combined business plan. The deal must first be approved by regulators, but should it go ahead the two companies would create the UK’s largest mobile net work with approximately 27 mil lion customers.
FINANCE
28 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page
CLOSING PRICES 23 OCTOBER
PRICE(P)
CHANGE(P)
% CHG.
NET VOL
5.872,0
5.758,0
102,53K
1.319,00
1.302,50
13,61K
PRICE(P)
CHANGE(P)
% CHG.
3I Group
1.991,00
2.012,00
1.987,00
25,76K
InterContinental
5.848,0
Abrdn
151,05
152,40
150,55
297,23K
Intermediate Capital
1.304,00
Admiral Group
2.447,0
2.455,0
2.435,0
16,32K
Intertek
3.990,0
4.007,0
3.979,0
7,83K
Anglo American
2.025,0
2.050,5
2.025,0
188,68K
ITV
63,39
64,00
63,44
188,85K
Antofagasta
1.311,50
1.322,50
1.293,50
53,51K
J Sainsbury
252,10
252,60
251,40
74,91K
Ashtead Group
4.703,5
4.766,0
4.701,0
28,97K
Johnson Matthey
1.469,5
1.479,5
1.468,5
10,69K
Associated British Foods
1.937,5
1.947,0
1.934,0
27,19K
Land Securities
567,80
577,60
566,80
79,20K
AstraZeneca
10.354,3
10.486,0
10.332,0
59,16K
Legal & General
207,17
208,80
206,60
1,06M
64,94K
Lloyds Banking
41,49
41,77
41,48
7,41M
8.234,0
8.276,0
8.206,0
20,28K
Auto Trader Group Plc Aviva
595,60 396,30
B&M European Value Retail SA542,20
603,60
594,00
NET VOL
COMPANY
COMPANY
394,90
369,42K
543,40
533,60
47,59K
Melrose Industries
454,30
458,70
453,90
159,61K
Mondi
1.250,00
1.267,50
1.246,50
107,90K
National Grid
956,69
961,80
952,00
195,61K
NatWest Group
216,20
219,20
216,00
513,72K
Next
6.908,0
6.908,0
6.848,0
7,92K
DOW JONES
Ocado
503,40
504,00
483,10
144,47K
CLOSING PRICES 23 OCTOBER
1.065,00
1.048,50
266,86K
Barclays
144,40
145,68
144,32
3,14M
388,70
US dollar (USD) ........................................1.0587 Japan yen (JPY)........................................158.69 Switzerland franc (CHF) ...........................0.9457 Denmark kroner (DKK) .............................7.4623 Norway kroner (NOK) ...............................11.751
397,70
1.064,50
Barratt Developments
Units per €
London Stock Exchange
BAE Systems
394,60
387,70
114,68K
Berkeley
3.935,0
3.960,0
3.930,0
7,87K
BHP Group Ltd
2.240,50
2.258,00
2.240,50
45,39K
BP
542,61
544,70
536,80
1,72M
British American Tobacco 2.442,5
2.457,5
2.440,0
81,60K
British Land Company
294,40
300,20
293,80
98,94K
BT Group
112,65
114,45
112,60
471,31K
Bunzl
2.876,0
2.892,0
2.874,0
7,95K
Burberry Group
1.714,5
1.741,0
1.713,5
41,03K
Carnival
805,7
815,0
805,8
15,81K
Centrica
155,80
157,95
155,35
285,47K
Coca Cola HBC AG
2.113,0
2.120,0
2.112,0
9,84K
Compass
2.053,00
2.059,00
2.036,00
80,99K
CRH
4.529,0
4.551,0
4.501,0
39,35K
Croda Intl
4.039,8
4.070,0
4.038,0
DCC
4.412,0
4.436,0
4.407,0
Diageo
3.081,5
3.097,0
3.079,0
DS Smith
261,10
265,10
1.14887
0.87044
currenciesdirect.com/mojacar • Tel: +34 950 478 914 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER
Persimmon
963,2
980,0
958,8
72,30K
COMPANY
PRICE
CHANGE
CHANGE% VOLUME(M)
Phoenix
442,00
445,60
441,10
109,09K
Prudential
824,60
834,60
823,80
171,53K
3M American Express Amgen Apple Boeing Caterpillar Chevron Cisco Coca-Cola Dow Goldman Sachs Home Depot Honeywell IBM Intel J&J JPMorgan McDonald’s Merck&Co Microsoft Nike Procter&Gamble Salesforce Inc The Travelers UnitedHealth Verizon Visa A Walgreens Boots Walmart Walt Disney
86,55 141,57 278,81 172,88 180,04 249,20 166,83 52,93 54,57 48,99 300,05 286,41 181,32 137,16 34,92 153,00 142,95 258,11 102,67 326,67 102,67 148,05 203,73 161,59 527,03 31,57 233,38 21,26 158,76 82,65
87,32 147,94 281,06 175,42 183,39 253,49 169,10 53,59 55,02 49,57 303,25 287,18 183,78 139,27 36,28 153,87 145,14 260,34 103,36 331,92 103,77 149,88 208,11 164,62 534,43 32,14 235,77 21,46 161,10 83,44
86,39 2,52M 141,44 8,22M 275,75 2,44M 172,64 63,02M 179,85 4,45M 248,16 3,08M 166,10 7,42M 52,80 22,03M 54,44 15,66M 48,92 3,91M 298,10 2,31M 283,61 2,85M 181,06 3,04M 137,12 4,84M 34,87 32,22M 152,33 7,17M 142,12 12,83M 257,56 3,77M 99,99 12,43M 325,45 24,97M 102,57 7,76M 147,92 7,08M 202,12 5,50M 161,32 1,50M 526,77 2,80M 31,55 27,16M 232,64 5,71M 20,48 13,55M 158,71 4,98M 82,61 10,26M M - MILLION DOLLARS
Reckitt Benckiser
5.940,0
5.960,0
5.932,0
29,67K
Relx
2.840,00
2.852,00
2.829,00
102,80K
Rentokil
454,00
465,70
453,30
451,54K
Rightmove
478,40
489,30
478,40
175,42K
Rio Tinto PLC
4.879,6
4.925,0
4.878,5
82,26K
Rolls-Royce Holdings
200,40
200,30
196,45
1,62M
Sage
955,40
959,40
950,60
91,71K
Samsung Electronics DRC 1.259,00
1.264,00
1.259,00
0,88K
Schroders
365,0
370,6
364,6
64,08K
7,62K
Scottish Mortgage
645,35
652,60
645,00
196,30K
11,17K
Segro
690,00
701,40
689,40
120,95K
124,02K
Severn Trent
2.486,0
2.500,0
2.467,0
16,17K
260,50
156,29K
Shell
2.721,5
2.727,5
2.695,5
449,26K
EasyJet
358,57
361,30
357,50
162,64K
Smith & Nephew
917,40
926,00
917,00
44,80K
Experian
2.645,4
2.654,0
2.630,0
51,64K
Smiths Group
1.531,00
1.534,00
1.523,50
21,22K
Ferguson
12.690,0
12.725,0
12.575,0
2,92K
Spirax-Sarco Engineering 8.120,0
8.206,0
8.124,0
2,97K
Flutter Entertainment
12.570,0
12.620,0
12.430,0
25,96K
SSE
1.562,50
1.573,50
1.558,50
37,98K
Fresnillo
540,20
545,60
538,80
30,83K
St. James’s Place
616,20
632,00
615,40
140,00K
Glencore
428,16
432,25
428,15
1,74M
Standard Chartered
715,80
720,00
714,80
202,14K
GSK plc
1.467,60
1.471,20
1.463,60
141,48K
Taylor Wimpey
103,75
106,20
103,60
632,30K
Halma
1.810,5
1.835,5
1.809,0
46,91K
Tesco
272,90
272,90
271,70
432,94K
Hargreaves Lansdown
690,96
699,60
690,20
119,71K
Tui
396,60
410,40
395,00
212,78K
Hikma Pharma
1.942,50
1.956,50
1.939,00
7,81K
Unilever
3.987,0
3.988,5
3.970,0
225,52K
HSBC
610,70
617,50
610,50
774,92K
United Utilities
1.018,50
1.030,00
1.012,50
96,72K
IAG
139,45
139,75
138,40
1,13M
Vodafone Group PLC
74,83
75,78
74,58
2,84M
Imperial Brands
1.710,50
1.716,50
1.707,00
74,49K
Whitbread
3.264,0
3.275,0
3.245,0
28,34K
Informa
686,20
689,80
685,00
59,97K
WPP
674,60
679,20
672,80
123,18K
NASDAQ CLOSING PRICES 23 OCTOBER
COMPANY Most Advanced
CHANGE NET / %
Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited +22.28% Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. +11.75% Euronet Worldwide, Inc. +8.93% Autoliv, Inc. +7.01% Country Garden Holdings Company Limited +6.96% Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. +5.93% Playtika Holding Corp. +5.59% R1 RCM Inc. +4.93% Genmab A/S +4.15% L'Oréal S.A. +4.14% BeiGene, Ltd. +4.12%
VOLUME 449,741 8.695M 1.56M 2.89M 22,531 2.787M 869,233 4.434M 2.473M 73,100 398,327
Most Declined SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. MSP Recovery, Inc. Enphase Energy, Inc. Incitec Pivot Limited Regions Financial Corporation Okta, Inc. Comerica Incorporated Husqvarna AB (publ) Western Alliance Bancorporation Rentokil Initial plc Joby Aviation, Inc.
-27.27% -19.23% -14.68% 0.00% -12.38% -11.57% -8.53% -8.46% -8.38% -8.35% -8.00%
21.316M 263,816 14.475M 365 37.373M 11.019M 5.35M 38,401 4.72M 1.274M 8.681M
‘
euroweeklynews.com
BUSINESS EXTRA Happy feet CINVEN, owner of Kurt Geiger since 2015, is said to be working with Bank of America on a fu ture auction of the luxu ry shoe brand for £400 million (€459.1 million). Leading luxury goods groups as well as private equity firms are all ex pected to be interested in acquiring the prestige label which was found ed in 1963.
Cashing in BANKINTER earned €685 million between January this year and the end of September, a 59.2 per cent increase on the same peri od in 2022, thanks to inter est hikes. The bank’s net in terest margin shot up by 54 per cent while return on equity rose to 18.2 per cent, chief executive Maria Dolores Bancausa an nounced.
26 October - 1 November 2023
Don’t stop drilling BRITAIN’S Energy secretary warned that the country could not allow North Sea gas and oil output to diminish fur ther. Speaking at Energy UK’s an nual conference in London on October 18, Claire Coutinho said that Britain could be come increasingly dependent on energy imports. North Sea Transition Au thority (NSTA) data revealed that without new North Sea oil and gas wells, output would halve by 2030, Coutin
photo credit: CC/David Woolfall
FINANCE
ENERGY MINISTER: New North Sea wells needed, Claire Coutinho said.
Amancio Ortega (again) IT is an unusual week when Zara founder Amancio Ortega fails to loom large in the financial news in Spain and elsewhere. The latest information regarding one of the world’s richest men centres on Pontegadea Inversiones through which Ortega channels most of his activities in the property and energy sectors as well as the income from a 50.1 per cent hold
ing in the Inditex empire. This year, Pontegadea registered a consolidated profit of €2.3 billion at the end of the 2022 fiscal year, an increase of 30 per cent compared with 2021. Nevertheless, this omitted the income from Ortega’s Pontegadea GB 2020 and Partler 2006 which includes another 9.29 per cent holding in Inditex.
ho said. “This country would be forced to import up to 80pc of our oil and gas by 2030,” she told the conference. “The UK will not only be subservient to foreign regimes, but risk decimating the same people and commu nities that we need on this green transition journey.” The Energy secretary added that the UK was reducing oil and gas consumption in line with net zero targets, but added that without a new off shore drilling programme, production would fall “much faster” than demand. The UK needs an annual 61 million tons of oil, but with 938 potentiallyproduc tive wells now inactive, British oil production fell to a historic low of 38 million tons in 2022. This would plunge to 22 million tons in 2030 unless new wells were drilled, NSTA data suggested, Coutinho said.
EWN 29
Cut-price TESLA has reduced the price of its basic Model 3 car in Britain by £3,000 (€3,443) to £36,990 (€42,460) in a bid to encourage demand for its electric vehicles as sales have slowed amid increased competition from China. Elon Musk’s company has continually slashed prices in the US this year and also re duced its UK prices in Jan uary.
Bank job GERMANY is likely to back the Nadia Calviño, vicepresident of the in cumbent Spanish govern ment as well as Economy minister, in her bid to head the European In vestment. Finance minis ter Christian Lindner re vealed that the German government had made its decision but although he did not wish to name the candidate, this is sure to be Calviño, insiders said.
30 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
Egotistical celebrities
OUR VIEW
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT ALTHOUGH this ol boy has had his share of socalled ‘stardom’ over the years, it never stops to amaze me how far some egotistical celebrities are prepared to go to convince the public they are so utterly special. Mariah Carey sure took the bubble recently, when she insisted that the promotors of a tour she had been booked for supplied someone to ‘handle her chewing gum’! Apparently this young lady cannot bear to touch her chomped gum. She therefore needs someone to pick it up and bin it after she has spat it out. Not the job you would particu larly enjoy adding to your CV! Of course yours truly has had a few an tics in the past. One which I will nev er actually forget was my first trip to the USA as a budding ‘chart topper’. On the way to Nashville to appear at the Grand Old Oprey, I laid over in
NY for a couple of days to do a bit of tele. Also there at the same time was Tom Jones. I had known Tom since the beginning of his career, when his manager Gordon Mills, who also managed me, was paying him 10 bob a week and changed his name from Woodward to Jones, to coincide with the popular movie playing worldwide at the time. Riding high by then he was ap pearing at the Copacabana and also having a mad affair with the beauti ful Mary Wilson of the Supremes, who were the most successful Mo town girl group in the business and at that time appearing for a week in the Blue Room of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria. After seeing Tom at the ‘Copa’ on my first night I was subsequently in vited to join him and Mary for a club crawl around the night spots of New York. To be honest I didn’t really en joy it too much because they were recognised just about everywhere we went and basically mobbed at every turn. Not me of course. My Little Arrows was still rising up
the charts and I certainly hadn’t reached the heights of my two com panions. Nevertheless it was an in teresting night and rounded off by Mary eagerly inviting me and Tom to have a table at the Wardorf the next evening. We would be able to see the show and after be joined by her self and Diana Ross, who she insist ed, in her broad American accent, would truly ‘love me with my Beatle haircut and English accent’! Consequently at the end of our evening the ol boy made tracks for the hotel with a skin full, a spinning head and a date for the following night with Diana Ross of the Supremes who was gonna love me! Not a bad start to the ol boy’s USA visit, someone who began his career starving and kipping on the benches of London’s Charing Cross station. Not enough space to give you the fi nal result of this hopefully loving for ay. No need to ask Tom, I’ll tell you the outcome in the next blurb. Keep the Faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail .com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
FEATURE
WILD LIFE
RECENT stories on the Euro Weekly News website about the ever increasing number of wild boar appearing in towns and on beaches across some parts of Spain have po larised opinion from readers. We asked whether they are a danger that should be culled or catered for because they have only moved to towns because much of their traditional land has been tak en over and the drought has made it increasingly more dif ficult for them to find food and even water. As will be seen on our Community Comments page, the response to the question was large and generally on the side of the boars. We expectedly had a few tongue in cheek responses with jokers suggesting that they were best served with a good chianti or were ideal for the plan cha but on balance the majority seemed to feel that hu mans owe a debt to look after the animals. What we tend to overlook is the fact that they are breeding more quickly as there have been several wild boar and escaped pigs mating, so there are more of these hybrids fighting for less space and food. An added problem is that research from the University of Queensland says that by uprooting carbon trapped in soil, wild pigs are releasing around 4.9 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide annually across the globe, the equivalent of 1.1 million cars. This is therefore a potentially growing problem, both from incursions into urban areas as well as added pollution. We don’t have a proposed solu tion but do recognise that the National Government (when there is one) will need to create a sensible policy to recognise the signs of danger and deal with it.
32 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
MAMMOGRAMS: Important in the early detection of breast cancer.
Early detection Eating veggies first VEGETABLES: Eating them first can offer notable health benefits.
MAMMOGRAMS stand as one of the most vital tools in the early detection of breast cancer. By capturing Xray images of the breast, they can pin point abnormalities often long before physical symp toms manifest. Early detection signifi cantly increases the chances of successful treat ment and can reduce the
need for invasive proce dures. Regular mammo grams, especially for wom en over 40 or those with a family history of breast can cer, are crucial. They not only save lives but also empower women with knowledge about their health. Prioritising this sim ple screening can make a world of difference in the fight against breast cancer.
6 -7% the amount of blood in the human body.
NEW research shines a spotlight on the art of ‘meal sequencing’, suggest ing that consuming vegetables before diving into meat, rice, or pasta might offer notable health benefits. Scientists have found that this sim ple switch in eating order can lead to improved blood sugar levels, helping to manage and prevent conditions like diabetes. Additionally, by priori
tising vegetables, individuals often re port feeling satiated for longer peri ods, reducing the chances of overeat ing and aiding in weight loss. This approach emphasises not just what we eat, but also the order in which we consume it. Embracing this method could be a gamechanger, of fering a fresh perspective on balanced meals and holistic wellbeing.
RED MEAT: Experts recommend limiting your intake per week.
Red meat consumption RED meat, a staple in many diets, has been scrutinised for its potential health implica tions. Recent scientific studies suggest mod eration is key. Experts recommend limiting red meat intake to about 500g (cooked weight) per week, which equates to roughly three to four portions. This guidance stems from concerns linking excessive red meat consumption to heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
While red meat is a valuable source of nu trients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, overcon sumption can introduce high levels of saturat ed fats and potential carcinogens. For a balanced diet, consider diversifying protein sources, incorporating fish, poultry, legumes, and plantbased alternatives. Remember, it’s not just about quantity but quality; opting for lean cuts and avoiding pro cessed meats can make a difference.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
euroweeklynews.com
26 October - 1 November 2023
EWN 33
Advertising Feature
A Legacy of excellence in dental care in Almeria FOR over a quarter of a centu ry, Odontostetic has firmly rooted its position as a trusted dental care provider in the beautiful province of Almeria. With 26 years in the industry, our vast experience speaks vol umes about our commitment to ensuring the smiles of our patients are not just beautiful, but healthy too. And with two strategic locations in Los Gal lardos and Garrucha, we’re within easy reach to serve the good people of this region. But what truly sets us apart? It’s our belief that dental care is more than just treatment; it’s about ensuring that our pa tients are wholly satisfied with the services they receive. Our stellar reputation is built upon a foundation of excellence in service. Whether you walk through our doors for cosmetic dentistry or smile design, our
ODONTOSTETIC: Dr William Eljadue Lopez.
skilled professionals provide each treatment with precision and care, befitting of our brand’s longstanding legacy. From orthodontics to peri odontics, dental prosthetics to endodontics we pride our selves on offering a compre hensive range of dental spe cialties. Understanding the needs and expectations of our com munity, we’re thrilled to an nounce our latest campaign the ‘Without Crown Implant Campaign’. Dental implants play a crucial role in restoring smiles, and we’re now offering implants without crowns for an unbeatable price of €490. A quality solution that is as kind to your pocket as it is to your smile! To book an appointment or find out more, you can reach our Garrucha clinic on 621 239
624. Located at La 1 48, Calle Molino 166, we’re open Fri days from 9.30am to 5.30pm. For those closer to Los Gallar dos, you can get in touch on 722 706 732. Our clinic there welcomes patients from 9.30am to 1.30pm, and every Wednesday from 9.30am to 5.30pm. For more details about our offerings, testimonials, or to schedule an online consulta tion, please visit our website at www.odontostetic.es. We also understand the value of direct communication, so for any spe cific inquiries, don’t hesitate to drop us an email at odonto stetic40e@gmail.com. Here at Odontosteic, we’re not just about smiles we’re about spreading happiness, one patient at a time. Join us on this journey to brighter, healthier smiles!
C/Mayor, 17 • 04630 GARRUCHA (Almeria) £ 950 928 062 - 621 239 624 • C/Molino, 16 • 04280 LOS GALLARDOS (Almeria) • 950 398 993 - 722 706 732
odontoestetic.es • Facebook: odontostetic • odontostetic40@gmail.com
36 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
FEATURE
Advertising Feature
Liberty’s pet insurance sales up 25% in last six months LIBERTY SEGUROS’ pet insurance has grown by 25 per cent in the past six months, surpassing €1 million in annual revenue. According to com pany data, this growth follows the trend of the last two years, as this segment grew by 12.7 per cent in 2021 and 13.6 per cent in 2022. The new Law on Animal Welfare, which came into force on Septem ber 29, makes it compulsory for dog owners to have civil liability insur ance. And this fact has been reflect ed in the demand for both Civil Lia bility insurance, which in August alone has shot up by 623 per cent, and Liberty’s specific product for pets, which in the same month has increased by 70 per cent. However, compulsory civil liability insurance for natural or legal per sons owning dogs will not be effec tively applicable until the corre sponding regulatory development takes place. In this sense, Liberty stresses that behind the growth of these insurances recently there is al
PET INSURANCE: Protection from a basic package to much more.
so a growing concern of pet owners to cover their main needs and risks. José Luis García Camiñas, Liberty’s Executive Director of Product in Eu rope, says: “We expect this segment to continue to grow in the future not only because of increased regulatory requirements but also because of society’s growing concern to protect the welfare of their pets and to have cover for issues such as veterinary expenses, theft and travel assis
tance. Specifically, more than 90 per cent of the claims reported to Liberty under pet insurance correspond to veterinary expenses. The rest corre spond to the death of the animal, lia bility issues and theft or kidnapping.” The number of dogs in Spain is es timated to be more than nine mil lion, but having them insured is not a widespread practice. This contrasts with countries such as the USA where 70 per cent of households
have a pet and between 20 per cent and 25 per cent of them, especially dogs and cats, are insured. In the EU, 25 per cent of EU households have a dog, according to the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). “Due to all of these factors, this in surance product, which was initially demanded by residents in Spain from other countries, and which has been increasingly valued by national clients, presents a significant growth potential in the forthcoming years,” says José Luis García Camiñas. Main changes that Spain’s new animal welfare law will bring The Animal Welfare Law estab lishes new obligations for pets, and in particular for dog owners. One of these is the obligation to have Civil Liability insurance to cover possible damages and injuries caused by dogs, whatever their breed, to other people, animals, or things. However, this obligation will not be effectively applicable until the regulatory devel opment of the rule takes place.
On the other hand, the classifica tion of potentially dangerous dogs (PPP) disappears and the concept of special dog handling is created. An individualised sociability study will determine whether a dog is a special dog handling. In addition, a compul sory training course for dog owners will be introduced. The develop ment of these two elements is also still awaiting a regulation. Customised Insurance also for Pets Liberty Seguros has comprehen sive insurance policies for pets, a product that is defined by its many adjustment options to provide pro tection for the insured animal against risks such as accident and ill ness and which can be taken out as a basic package with the possibility of adding others with optional guar antees. As for civil liability, it also offers specific insurance for this legal cover for damage to third parties or as op tional cover within home insurance.
Visit www.libertyexpatriates.es for more information or call 913 422 549 for the name of your nearest Agent/Broker. THE British Benevolent Fund was funded over a century ago to provide financial assis tance for British nationals in Spain who face extreme fi nancial distress and who have no other recourse, whether friends, family or state sup port. The BBF works with partner charities from www.supportinspain.info across the country as well as the UK’s consular network in Spain to help those who have no other means. The lingering effects of the Covid pandemic is still with us many people faced tough almost impossible life affect ing situations due to losing their income and job. One such was John who is in his late 50s and had been living in Spain for most of his adult life. He had been living modestly doing odd jobs in gardens and bars which had seen him though many years some good, some less so, but always with a roof over his head and a reasonable living to afford some of life’s luxu ries. With the pandemic all his work came to a shuddering halt with every spike in Covid cases saw him deeper in debt as his savings were used up to
Make a donation
Olaf Clayton of BBF.
pay for rent and food. He managed to keep a roof over his head for a year but in the end he had no choice but to leave his apartment. He packed his possessions into the car boot and lived there, living off a local food bank and the odd cash in hand job. He continued look ing for work, but it was very sparse and now that he was living in his car there were few takers. Although he was legal ly resident, he was not able to claim any state support due to a debt with the Spanish so cial security it wasn’t much but meant that he could not claim any benefits such as the ingreso minimo that with any income would mean he would be able to get back on his feet. The debt was less than
€100. Working with a local charity who were able to pro cess the paperwork the BBF was able to able to pay the debt and pay for a short time a room in a shared apartment whist he awaited his pay ment. Which came through a few months later John was able to find more regular work and get his life back on track. Today John has found himself a new place to live as well as plenty of work. He is back on track. The BBF can only help peo ple like John with your sup port if you would like to make a donation to the British Benevolent Fund please visit our www.british benevolentfund.org thank you on behalf of the many for your help. Olaf Clayton, Chair BBF
O
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM SUDOKU
WORD SPIRAL
Fill in all the squares in the grid so that every row, column and each of the nine 3x3 boxes contain all of the digits from 1 to 9.
EASY
HARD
9 2
7
Starting from 1, fill in the grid clockwise with four-letter words. The last letter of each word becomes the first letter of the next to reveal the key word in the shaded boxes.
3
1
7
5 5 6
9 3 6
9
10
14
15
8
7
3 5
4
16
4 8 5 2
6 4
11
1
8 2 5
8
3
2
13 7
4
12 6
5
1. Hotel cook
9. Revise
2. Make full
10. Pith helmet
3. Former Italian
11. Skin irritation
currency
12. Sacred
4. Region
13. High-pitched bark
5. First man 6. Repair
14. Colour
7. Information
15. Unit of speed
8. Competent
16. Brass instrument
Keyword clue: A country
QUICK QUIZ 1. Which Italian artist is famous for his detailed paintings of Venice and London? 2. What name is given to inflammation of the voice box? 3. In US law, what name is given to an offence considered less serious than a felony? 4. Which bone is commonly called the thighbone? 5. By what name was Cape Canaveral known from 1963 to 1973? 6. With which game is Emanuel Lasker associated? 7. Which British driver emulated his father in setting world land-speed and waterspeed records? 8. What sort of creature is a fennec? 9. Which city in Nevada has a name which means ‘the meadows’? 10. What name is given to the ancient Chinese skill of balancing forces, commonly used as a principle of interior design?
QUICK CROSSWORD Across
Down
5. Excursion on foot (4) 7. Cocktail (4,6) 8. Romantic appointment (4) 10. Red meat (4) 12. Fuss (3) 13. Hairpiece (6) 16. Depart (5) 18. Sweet potato (3) 20. Look lasciviously (4) 21. Microbe (4) 22. Chest bone (3) 24. Baffling question (5) 25. Destructive insect (6) 26. Household fuel (3) 27. Gateau, e.g. (4) 29. Not hot (4) 33. One-sided (10) 34. Unwelcome plant (4)
1. Young goat (3) 2. Visage (4) 3. Faldo’s sport (4) 4. Craze (3) 5. Roll of banknotes (3) 6. Liquid measure (5) 9. Spring over (5) 10. Spanish dance (6) 11. Purchase (3) 13. Entice (5) 14. Leaf of a book (4) 15. Come into view (6) 17. Boy’s name (4) 19. Accumulate (5) 23. Unopened flower (3) 25. Slack (5) 27. Fossil fuel (4) 28. Retain (4) 30. Squib (3) 31. That man (3) 32. Excessively plump (3)
45
40 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
FEATURE
OMMUNITY
C OMMENTS
THERE has been a huge response to our recent article on the Euro Weekly News website and Facebook page about the proliferation of wild boar and with more than 100 responses, already the general feeling is that they should be treated with care and respect rather than simply killed to make life easier for humans. Read the article as it appears in this edition of your paper as well as these comments below and let us know your feelings on the matter.
“
Hunt/manage them where safe and possible, but let them be when they come for a sanctuary … feeding and approaching them is wrong and a recipe for confrontation ! William Sr. Koninckx
We have invaded their territory, so have to learn to live with them. They are a wild animal so our respect is needed, we definitely should be looking after them! Sabrina Hope
I would not like to see them culled,but maybe pushing them back into the wild country. Michael Stanton
No leave them alone, you’re building on all their places. Christine Belmonte
I live in Andalucia for a very long time and witnessed how their habitat has been shrinking... Furthermore they come down from La Concha, because irresponsible people are to lazy to put their garbage into the containers, they leave it on the street around the containers or throw it everywhere on the street, which is an open invitation... They don't bother humans, only the barking dogs can make them nervous, specially if they are mothers with little ones. When I'm walking my dogs I watch them, which many people don't do, because their face is sticking into their mobiles... The problems are the humans....
unless threatened. Andrew Philip Coates
They are dangerous, they spread disease , people get their cars written off! They should be controlled, they continue to break through fences, destroy gardens (which were there actually before them) and procreate very rapidly. They hunt in packs with the parents often being 300 kgs each. Beware what you wish for! Barry Marshall
Trap, neuter, return (TNR) with vaccinations cost around €400 per head. Hunters are paid €2,000 on average per head, do you start to see the issue? They are being deliberately bred and released. More hunters and wardens are coming forward to confirm it. We then also factor in serious loss of habitat, drought and more rubbish due to more population, so the pigs are ‘in town’. They often have cuts from rubbish. Rubbish they shouldn't be rummaging in. They should have feeding and watering stations with regular veterinary controls and with the huge amount of Chaparral forest decimated for urbanisations, Mijas should be creating a green belt with biodiversity area, there is plenty of land to do so. Luisa Grajales
There's too many and they're causing fatal road accidents. I'd say cull and sell the meat. Celeste Picken
They were on the beach today, weren’t causing a problem just trotting along.
Katalin Zu Windischgraetz
No way, they are beautiful animals, people have taken their natural habitats, this coupled with the loss of forest land due to fires have forced these magnificent animals down to the coast looking for food, they are not aggresive
Laura Charles
Please just let nature take its course. It was their land before we encroached on it. They deserve a life too. Jacqueline Mellis
Comments should be emailed to yoursay@euroweeklynews.com or make your comments on our website: euroweeklynews.com Views expressed and opinions given are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements.
euroweeklynews.com
Advertising Feature Voss Homes
26 October - 1 November 2023
Property of the week
Villa Sunma in the Zurgena Area NEW & EXCLUSIVE TO VOSS HOMES An absolutely stunning, immaculately present ed, quality built, three bed, two bath larger than average villa with separate, huge out side entertaining / bar / activity area, 10m x 4m swimming pool, H&C air con, wall heater and beautiful views on an established, land scaped, fenced garden of approx 1,400m2 around the house plus a further 8,300m2 of attached land. The quality build, fixtures and fittings of Vil la Sumna are to a very high standard. It is lo cated in the Palaces area of Zurgena and is just five minutes drive to Zurgena / La Alfo quia villages with shops, bars, restaurants, doctors, vets etc. Ten minutes drive to Huer calOvera and Arboleas and 20 to 25 minutes drive to the coast at Garrucha, Vera or Mo jacar. Entry into the property via electrically opening iron gates leading into the drive way which also has a shaded car port for two cars. A gate takes you into the main garden which is laid to gravel, tiles and artificial grass for low maintenance. Throughout the garden is an
EWN 41
Ref.VH2260
€329,000 euros
STUNNING VILLA: With quality fixtures and fittings of a very high standard and a semi-open area for entertaining guests.
amazing mixture of mature ever green Mediterranean plants and palm trees. As well as the villa, the striking main fea ture of this property is the covered, semi open entertainment area of approx 50m2 with seating areas and bar. In front of and between this area and the villa is the 10m x 4m swimming pool sur rounded with tiles and artificial grass to add colour and comfort. At the front of the villa is a large covered ter race with attractive ballustrading and makes
an ideal dining or relaxing area as you look over the pool, gardens and entertaining area. The front door leads into the welcoming hallway. Turning right is the large, open plan living / dining room / kitchen. The impres sive recently fitted modern kitchen with quality intergrated appliances also has use ful dining island. Back in the hallway is a corridor taking you to two large double bedrooms. Next is the recently updated family shower room with walk in shower and a walk in cupboard /
cloakroom. Marble stairs take you up to the first floor landing. To the right is a door leading to the sun terrace which runs the side and front of the villa and has artificial grass flooring and stunning views over the gardens, pool, coun tryside, entertainment area and driveway. To the left on the landing is the large main bedroom with walk through dressing room and ensuite bathroom. From the bedroom sliding glazed doors lead out to the sun ter race.
For more information and to arrange a viewing of VH2260 or a meeting at one of our offices please contact Voss Homes DIRECTLY on 0034 950 616 827 or email us at enquiries@vosshomesspain.com.
: 360b/Shutterstock.com
FEATURE
42 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023 Advertising Feature Grupo Platinum Estates
euroweeklynews.com
Property of the week
Buy Smart! Housing at a Fantastic Price GRUPO PLATINUM ESTATES presents this lovely flat on the first floor of a residential building in the vibrant town of Turre! Despite its location in a residential building, the properties are currently not subject to community fees. Entering the property through a staircase, you will be greeted by a spacious and b r i g h t l i v i n g d i n i n g r o o m with access to a cosy terrace. From this terrace, spiral stairs lead up to a huge so larium with 180 degree panoramic views of the ma jestic Sierras Cabrera and Fi labres, offering the possibili ty to create a chillout and barbecue area, perfect for outdoor enjoyment. At the opposite end of the livingdining room, you will
WONDERFUL APARTMENT: Arrange a viewing to explore all this property has to offer.
FEATURE
Ref. TUPD192A
82,000 euros find a kitchen equipped with electrical appliances, next to which there is a double bed room with a single bed, b u i l t i n w a r d r o b e a n d e n suite bathroom with bath tub. There is also another bathroom accessible from t h e l i v i n g d i n i n g r o o m , equipped with a shower. To the right of this space, there is another double bedroom with builtin wardrobe. Both bedrooms are fitted with ceiling fans for extra com fort. If this wonderful flat has captured your interest, do not hesitate to call us on +34 950 466 112 to arrange a viewing and explore all the features this property has to offer.
Make Your Dream of Home Ownership Come True at an Unbeatable Price Contact us now to register for your visit. ** 950466112 or ** info@grupoplatinum.com
From Burberry To 007 - Licence To Thrill That week, though, numerous tourists turned to me asking: “Where ARE we?” It was a daft advertising campaign which BREAKING VIEWS caused problems for the people who ac Nora is the author of popular psychological tually make TfL money: those who use suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. the network. COMMUTERS and tourists were recent The same TfL that feeds its customers ly left angry and confused after a mar a blowbyblow barrage of idiotic safety keting stunt to change announcements: “The signage inside and out floor may be slippery; hold side Bond Street tube sta the handrail; see it, say tion saw it rebranded as it...” The same station that ‘Burberry Street’ as part opened late, millions over of London Fashion Week. budget. Fine if you’re a regular How about the cheese tube traveller. You can people taking over Red Le quickly readjust to where icester Square? Armitage you are and be in on the Shanks Waterloo? Or the joke. Not so good if Bond movie company re you’re one of those anx branding Bond Street ious tourists you see on tube: ‘007’? the tube every day, con Nora Johnson’s 12 criti stantly checking they’ve cally acclaimed psycholog taken the right line or go ical suspense crime ing in the right direction. thrillers (www.norajohn NORA’S LATEST THRILLER. It’s notoriously confusing son.net) all available on enough for people to navigate without line including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Ap this stunt. ple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Like many commuters, I’m normally in Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer a bubble of silence when on the tube. charity.
NORA JOHNSON
Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
PETS Pet-sitters for only £69/€79 per year! Vegan diets for dogs: A healthy 43
THOSE of you who have seen our articles in the Euro Weekly News over the years know that we have maintained good value for our customers in the last 10 years Yes, we are nearly 10 years old! And in all that time we have only ever raised our prices once. We want you our customers to know that you are getting excellent value from a trusted source HouseSitMatch.com. Standard mem bership is still only £69 per year! Not bad for free petsitting in your own home. If you’re planning a trip in the next few months register now to find petsitters in time. Whether your trip is short or long, you’ll know that sometimes you must leave pets at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their rou tines undisturbed. Join our pet and housesit ting network, and the sitters come for free! Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSit Match.com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when need ed 3. Create a profile with photos of your pet
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THE vegan movement, which emphasises plant based diets free from ani mal products, has wit nessed substantial growth in recent years. As more people adopt vegan lifestyles, there’s a rising debate about whether our fourlegged compan ions can also thrive on a vegan diet. From a nutritional standpoint, dogs are om nivores, capable of ob taining nutrients from both plant and animal sources. However, the key lies in ensuring a wellbalanced diet that meets all their dietary re quirements. Some vegan dog food brands claim to offer nutritionally com plete options, fortified with essential amino acids, vitamins, and min erals that dogs would typ ically derive from animal products.
The hidden paws: Are tenants secretly housing pets? RENTAL agreements often come with a myriad of stip ulations, and one of the most contentious among them is the ‘no pets’ clause. As a result, there’s a grow ing debate: are tenants se cretly keeping pets hidden from their landlords? A recent survey revealed a surprising number of renters admitting to hous ing pets without notifying their property managers or landlords. The primary rea son? A deep bond with their furry companions and a lack of petfriendly rental op tions. For many, the thought of parting with their pets is unimaginable,
leading them to take covert measures. However, this secretive approach can lead to com plications. Hidden pets can cause damage, disturb neighbours, or even breach local housing regulations. Moreover, if discovered, tenants risk eviction or fi nancial penalties. Landlords often cite prop erty damage, potential al lergies for future tenants, or increased insurance costs as reasons for pet restrictions. Yet, some argue that a more flexible approach might be beneficial. By al lowing pets and possibly charging a reasonable pet
EMERGENCY NUMBERS POLICE/FIRE/AMBULANCE: 112 24 HOUR PHARMACY FERNANDEZ ORTEGA ANGELES - MOJACAR 950 469 082 24 HOUR VETS CLINICAL VETERINARIA - MOJACAR 950 472 252
deposit, landlords can cater to a larger pool of potential renters while safeguarding their property. In conclusion, while the bond between humans and their pets is undeniable, transparency and open
communication are key. Both landlords and tenants need to find a middle ground, ensuring that rental agreements cater to human needs without compromis ing the integrity of the prop erty.
However, veterinarians and canine nutritionists stress the importance of thorough research before making a dietary switch. While some dogs may thrive on a vegan diet, others might experience deficiencies, leading to health complications. Common concerns re volve around ensuring ad equate protein intake and the bioavailability of cer tain nutrients in plant based sources. For owners considering this dietary shift, it’s cru cial to consult with a veterinarian or ca nine nutritionist. Regu lar health checkups, monitoring for signs of nutrient deficiencies, and being attentive to
the dog’s energy levels and coat condition can provide indicators of their overall health. In conclusion, while a vegan diet can be an op tion for some dogs, it’s not a onesizefitsall so lution. Proper guidance and careful monitoring are paramount to ensur ing the wellbeing of our loyal companions.
SWITCHING DIETS: Make sure you take some advice.
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44
26 October - 1 November 2023 • euroweeklynews.com
DRAINAGE
Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at www.almeria-anglican.com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002) TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 617 914 156 (10021) ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Why not make this year the year you volunteer? Call and see how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, www.britishlegion.org.uk/ counties/spain-north ZURGENA Branch meeting on the first Thursday, Coffee Morning on the third Thursday and Buffet & Quiz Night on the last Tuesday of the month all at La Parrilla Hotel Albox, for further details please email zurgenarblchair man@gmail.com - (253989)
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26 October - 1 November 2023
REMOVALS & STORAGE
EWN 45
46 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
MOTORING
By John Ensor IT goes without saying that drivers need to take care and be prepared for any eventual ity on Spain’s highways. However, here’s just a re minder that one mistake is not just inconvenient, but could land you with a sizable fine from the DGT. Are you aware of the finan cial risks of running out of fu el? A recent report from a na tional newspaper has brought to attention the sig nificant penalties levied by the DirectorateGeneral for Traffic (DGT) for such an over sight. Embarking on a long drive comes with its fair share of challenges. A common con cern is the vehicle’s fuel gauge dipping into the reserve. In such cases, one’s immediate thought is to find a petrol sta tion. If stranded, motorists might consider seeking assis tance from the Local Police. However, it’s crucial to in form your car insurer about any incidents or risk receiving
Credit: Maria Sbytova/Shuttersock.com
You could be fined €200
REFUELLING: Make sure you fill up before long journeys.
a DGT fine. Drivers who stop on the hard shoulder or on the road could face fines up to €200, warns the DGT. Before exiting the vehicle, donning the compulsory emergency vest and activat ing the V16 emergency light is essential. Noncompliance could lead to a €200 fine. Even pushing the car to the wrong place could land a driv er with a €200 fine. And if you’re thinking of fetching fu el in a nonapproved contain er, brace yourself for a stag gering fine of up to €3,000. How can one locate a fuel station whilst driving?
A blue sign indicates a near by station on the motorway. A white sign means you’ll have to drive a bit further. Signs will indicate the dis tance to the nearest refuelling place, usually anything from 500 to 1,250 metres. Fuel considerations and road safety shouldn’t be tak en lightly. Following the law is imperative. Unfortunately, many drivers remain uninformed about these rules. If you be lieve this information is valu able, please share it with friends and family to spread awareness.
48 EWN 26 October - 1 November 2023
euroweeklynews.com
THE legendary Manch ester United and England footballer Sir Bobby Charl ton has passed away at the age of 86. A statement released by his family read: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Satur day morning. ‘He was surrounded by his family. His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and sup ported him. We would re quest that the family’s pri vacy be respected at this time’, it concluded. The 1966 World Cup winner had been suffering from dementia and died just one week after his 86th birthday. His older brother Jackie had also suffered with the same disease before his passing
Credit: The Centre for School Design/Creative Commons Zero, Public Domain Dedication
Sir Bobby Charlton dies aged 86
RIP: Sir Bobby Charlton.
in July 2020 at the age of 85. Manchester United changed the colour of their official ‘X’ account to black in honour of the Old Trafford icon, posting sim ply: '’Sir Bobby Charlton CBE, 19372023. Words
will never be enough’. A statement published on the club’s website read: ‘Manchester United are in mourning following the passing of Sir Bobby Charl ton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club.
‘Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world. ‘He was admired as much for his sportsman ship and integrity as he was for his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game. ‘The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchil dren, and all who loved him’. Born in the mining vil lage of Ashington, Northumberland, Sir Bob by was undoubtedly one of the alltime greats of English football. He was one of the survivors of the tragic Munich air disaster in 1958 which claimed the lives of eight of his Manch ester United teammates.
SPORT
Champions League team news WITH a crucial fixture against FC Copenhagen on Tuesday, October 23, Manchester United were hoping to have Sergio Reguilon available for selec tion. After fighting back to fit ness following an injury, the Tottenham loanee missed last Saturday’s 12 win over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane due to illness. The Red Devils have al ready lost both of their Group A matches and a bad result against the Danes at Old Trafford could seriously jeopardise their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the tournament. Speaking about the Span ish international defender during a press conference at the Carrington training ground, United’s Dutch coach, Erik ten Hag said: “Today he will train and then we have to assess if he is ready and game fit or if he can be involved in the squad. We have to wait for that.” Luke Shaw is currently sidelined for a lengthy peri
od which has resulted in Ten Hag using Sofyan Amra bat as a makeshift leftback due to his current shortage of defenders. The return of Reguilon would allow the manager to play the 27yearold Moroc can international in his usu al midfield role. That would also provide adequate cover for Casemiro who was sus pended for the clash after the Brazilian was sent off in the defeat by the Turkish gi ants Galatasaray three weeks ago. Tyrell Malacia could also be back soon. The Dutch in ternational defender was seen training away from the firstteam group at Carring ton as he battles back from injury. Arsenal face a tricky con test in Spain where they will play Sevilla in a Group B clash in the Estadio Ramon SanchezPizjuan. Last time out, the Gun ners lost to Ligue 1 outfit Lens in France so Mikel Arteta’s side really need to pick up a good result on Tuesday night.
British boxer bounces back Most popular sports docuseries BRITISH boxer and former champion Navid Mansouri, living in Marbella, Costa del Sol, has emerged victorious from his first professional fight in three years. The boxing event, which took place on Saturday Oc tober 14 at the Palacio de Congresos in Estepona, fea tured several international fighters and was presented by Gran Slam events. Navid, who is the father of two sons, had spent many gruelling months training and preparing for the battle. He expressed his happiness following his tri umph and told Euro Weekly News “it makes me super happy, and when I saw the smile on my son’s face, how excited he was, that was like the world title right
there. Everything I do is for my family, to see them proud, they are my motiva tion.” The family man, who grew up in Rotherham, UK, met his fiancée Karolina un der the bright lights of Puer to Banus back in 2016 and they now have two sons to gether. “My boy is five now, he’s older than when I was fighting before and under stands now what winning and becoming a champion is. So that’s the goal, I want to show him that by work ing hard and dedicating yourself, you can do any thing.” The former English Super Welterweight champion, explained that he discov ered the sport as a teenager when he wanted to lose some weight. “I was recom mended to join the boxing gym by friends, I went and the atmosphere was great, so respectful. I realised this is what I wanted to do.” During his early career, which began in 2009, ‘Nav’ enjoyed a series of succes
sive wins and achieved the English Title in 2013, a belt which he defended three times. He took a break from boxing in 2020 after Covid hit and since then family life has definitely kept him busy! However, he felt the burning desire to be back in the ring, and rather than throwing the towel in, he began to plan this colossal comeback. “This win has put the flame back in my belly,” he stated, “I’m going to pick up where I left off, but this time with a different mind set, I am more serious now, I have my family and that makes everything more meaningful.” Navid now continues his daily training alongside en joying his beautiful family and plans to take to the ring again soon. “I want to be come champion,” he de clared. For now, anyway, the gloves are off, but it seems like this determined daddy is one to watch!
THE recent release of the highly popular Netflix fourpart docuseries ‘Beckham’ has seen the English football player David Beckham back in the headlines. Sports docuseries featuring some of the globe’s biggest franchises and ath letes have exploded in popularity recent ly. This prompted a recent report to anal yse data from IMDb in an effort to reveal the most popular sports docuseries of all time as follows. 1. The Last Dance Revolving around the career of basket ball superstar Michael Jordan and the legendary Chicago Bulls, who won six NBA championships and two threepeats. 2. Formula 1: Drive to Survive There have been five seasons of For mula 1: Drive to Survive so far and it is highly likely that more will soon be con firmed. 3. Welcome to Wrexham Based on what started as a nonleague soccer team in Wales struggling financial ly, whose ambition then turns to being promoted to the football league, Wel come to Wrexham was released in 2022 and is a multipleawardwinning do cuseries. 4. Untold: Malice at the Palace This 2021 Netflix documentary from the ‘Untold’ series examines the infa mous 2004 NBA brawl between the Indi
ana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. 5. Sunderland ‘Til I Die Released on Netflix in 2018, this do cuseries follows the English football team Sunderland throughout the season. 6. Class of 92 This docuseries follows the famous footballing dynasty of six top Manchester United players. It charts the rise of David Beckham, Paul Scholes, and their team mates. 7. Untold: The Girlfriend Who Didn’t Exist Released in 2022, this is the sixth part of the ‘Untold’ series. It follows an all American college footballer named Man ti Te’o, whose life turns upside down when his relationship is revealed to be a catfish. 8. All or Nothing: Manchester City An Amazon Prime Video original, this series offers a behindthescenes view of English football club Manchester City during the 20172018 season. 9. Last Chance U Released in 2016, Last Chance U is a wellreceived sports documentary series, revolving around the experiences of ju nior college football players and pro grammes in the United States. 14. Beckham This docuseries was only released on October 4th 2023, however, it proved to be a favourite among Netflix fans.