Mallorca 11 – 17 January 2024 Issue 2010

A new fan

Credit: Real Mallorca X

THINGS are beginning to look a little healthier with Real Mallorca on the first year back in the top flight of La Liga.

They started fairly badly and crashed to a number of defeats but now, at the half way stage of the season after 19 matches have been played, they are starting to find winning ways and have climbed to number 14 in the table with 18 points.

Each season, three teams are demoted and already it seems pretty certain that Almeria with just five points are likely to go down and it is equally clear that Real Mallorca are going to have to fight quite hard to stay above the drop zone, but currently they are safe by three points.

Fans go to great lengths to show their support for their favourite team but one Real Mallorca fan who is very pregnant went to extremes at a recent match when she unveiled her decorated bump.

Pregnant Real Mallorca fan and her message.

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SEA PLANES

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Sea planes offer a world of opportunity.

IF all goes according to plan, a new airline with a difference, Isla Air Express will start operating from Palma to Ibiza and Menorca later this year.

The company has so far reportedly invested €8 million in setting itself up and wants to be only the second airline in Europe offering scheduled flights using sea planes.

They plan to obtain a number of DHC-6 TWIN OTTER Turboprop 18-seater planes which will operate on a daily basis to cover the 35 minute flights to both Ibiza and Menorca.

According to Isla Air Express, the use of these sea

planes is actually very positive as propellor driven aircraft are less polluting and as they take off and land in the sea, they just need somewhere to moor and a slipway to bring the aircraft on to dry land as well.

In the long term the intention is to operate flights from Palma via Ibiza to Barcelona and they also hope to take in both Alicante

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Three Kings Credit: Arno Vesterholm flickr

Mallorca • Issue No. 2010 • 11 - 17 January 2024

and Valencia in due course.

There are a few hurdles to overcome before these dreams become reality and this year will see them try to get both Palma Council and the Consell de Mallorca on side before they then move on to the Balearic Ports Authority and probably most importantly Spain’s AESA (Aviation Safety and Security Agency).

THE threat of cold weather and rain didn’t dampen the spirits of the people of Mallorca and of course Palma saw the largest Three Kings’ parade with 13 floats and more than 40 different groups of participants.

The event started at the Moll Vell when the Wise Men of the East accompanied by supporters arrived at 6pm on Friday January 5 aboard the former trawler Balear which celebrates its centenary this year.

Bedecked with lights the Balear cruised majestically into the marina and their Majesties alighted from the boat before setting off on the tour of Palma where the crowds enjoyed the excitement of the evening which as usual was well worth witnessing.

Similar parades took place in other parts of the Island and then most people were able to enjoy January 6 which was Saturday and a public holiday.

Three Kings arrive at Moll Vell.

EWN

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

11 - 17 January 2024

Càritas Mallorca WITH its own toy workshop which gives employment to people who would otherwise be without work, various parts of the Càritas Mallorca Charity have been very busy in the run up to Three Kings’ Day. In some case the workshop in Virgen de Lluc has been fixing toys that can be sold, thus raising more funds for the charity, whilst other Parishes across the Island have been busy collecting toys and gifts so that they could ensure that no-one would feel left out at this important time of the year, no matter how

Credit: Càritas Mallorca Facebook

Paul Edwards

Collecting presents.

tight finances may be.

Although the focus in the run up to Christmas and the New Year has been on supporting children, the charity is there 365 (or in 2024, 366) days a year offering help, assistance and advice to all who need it.

EVERY year, the Palma Council organises a special safe and warm area for a number of children who are suffering from cancer and their families.

This year was no different and the charity Aspanob which exists purely to make life just a little easier for these young people suffering from cancer coordinated their time spent at the

MISTAKES can happen but when you end up not only on the wrong aircraft but are transported to the wrong destination, that’s really unforgivable.

Unfortunately, in the case of Linda Trestrail, 69, and Wendy Russell, 71, it all went horribly wrong as they turned up to catch a Jet2 flight to Mallorca on September 26, 2023 and to their horror ended up in Menorca.

Basically, they were victims of a series of mistakes which saw them pass through a number of checks and ended up being put on the wrong flight which unfortunately for them had spare seats which corresponded with the numbers on their boarding passes and despite showing their passes to a stewardess they ended up flying to Menorca.

Eventually, they were flown back to Mallorca to discover that their proper flight had taken off without two passengers but with their luggage which in itself is a major security breach.

Wrong destination Credit: Aero Icarus flickr CC

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On this occasion Jet2 didn’t deserve the accolade of Best-Short Haul Airline.

Needless to say the two elderly and disabled ladies found themselves in a bad physical state and didn’t enjoy their holiday and reportedly complained on the basis that if you lose your luggage you get compensation, but if you lose passengers you don’t!

Youth cancer Three Kings Parade on Friday January 5.

In what has now become a tradition,

once the parade was finished, Aspanob accompanied the page of King Balthazar to the University Hospital of Son Es-

Now Jet2 have apologised, blaming in part third party operator running the assistance service, but be warned if you are disabled, make sure you keep an eye on which plane you are being driven to in order to make sure you get on the correct one.

pases to deliver gifts to the youngsters who for various reasons weren’t able to attend the parade.

The Association of Parents of children with Cancer in the Balearic Islands (Aspanob) aims to help children and young people with cancer and their families by promoting a better acceptance and to cope with the disease.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com Oops!

A CLEARLY embarrassed member of the Mallorca Fire Brigade announced on X that having been a member of the mountain rescue team for nine years he was grateful to his colleagues and members of the other emergency services who rescued him after a fall on January 8.

Football aid

THE Balearic Islands Football Federation Foundation has supplied winter sports equipment (parkas and sweatshirts) to the Casa de Familia hostel, managed by La Sapiència in Mallorca.

Winter sale

THE El Corte Inglés winter sale which is now running until the end of February (one day more than usual as it’s a Leap Year) sees some major bargains in store (with three outlets in Palma) as well as online.

El Niño

SOME lucky people in Mallorca gambling on the two big lotteries, El Gordo and El Niño have seen their numbers being read out with five winners of €4 million in the Christmas draw and a further two winners each claiming €2 million per decimo in the El Niño draw.

Some direction

A DELIGHTED fan spotted singer Neil Horan, the former member of One Direction seeing in the New Year with girl-friend Amelia Wooley in Andratx and they were happy to pose for a photograph.

Waiting list

THERE is always a demand for moorings and Ports IB have announced that they are about to allocate 11 to Colonia de Sant Jordio, leaving a waiting list of 781 whilst in S’Oberta some 17 will be allocated leaving just 46 boat owners waiting.

Paul Edwards TO start the New Year, Social Dogs Calvia, donated €250 to Calanova Cancer Care as part of an ongoing sponsorship in respect of every person who takes their dog there for training.

The benefit to the dog owner is that they will come away with a properly trained, obedient dog that won’t be a barker and they will also know that they have helped raise money for cancer research.

The Calanova Cancer Care Charity shops have had some very good sales but have stocks of quality furniture from

Cancer care Credit: Emma Garcia Chappell

NIBS EXTRA

11 - 17 January 2024

SOCIAL DOGS CALVIA: Need more helpers on board.

Discount vouchers CALVIA Council is a strong supporter of the concept of buying locally and therefore helping businesses who are committed to the community.

In late November it launched its CALVIA LO VALE (Calvia you are worth it) campaign with 17,500 vouchers which cost €10 but could be exchanged for goods priced at €20 in a number of participating shops and businesses.

The success of the promotion saw all of the vouchers being sold in 18 days, so prior to Three Kings’ Day, a further 3,000 vouchers were made available and these sold out in 10 days so the total amount expended the council of €205,000 would have seen goods sold locally to the value of €410,000.

As the vouchers are valid until the end of March it is expected that some ‘savvy shoppers’ will have kept their vouchers until the Winter Sales start in order to get the very best savings that they could.

The number of vouchers available was restricted to four per resident aged 16 or above, so larger families would have benefited.

IT is certainly a bit worrying when the Mallorca Fire Brigade has to warn residents about the potential dangers of fires caused by personal mobility vehicles.

There is a new communications programme on social networks warning residents about the risk of fire in the home caused by charging the batteries of these electric vehicles.

The Fire Brigade argues that in recent years, personal mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters, have proliferated.

It is very common to find devices of this type in homes in Mallorca, especially due to the conve-

Masked president visits Inca hospital AS controversy starts again over the National Government’s decision to insist that visitors to health centres wear masks, Margalida Prohens was seen on January 5 already wearing one.

The Balearic Government had earlier indicated that it was not in favour of passing legislation to make it mandatory to wear a mask, but when the President of the Government visited the new Paediatric Emergency Service at the Hospital Comarcal d’Inca she and her entourage chose to follow the protocol.

Perhaps surprisingly however, the

health official showing her around the facility chose not to wear a mask for reasons currently unknown.

As this is an area dedicated to children and their health, the walls have been decorated by Guillermo Martí Jaume, from local company Margen Digital 2.0 with the intent of making the area welcoming to the very young.

The walls are decorated with illustrated scenes from a story concerning Toniet, a boy who undertakes a series of adventures through prehistory, the jungle, the world of insects, the old American West, and much more.

Scandinavia, Austria, Germany and Switzerland as well as plenty of warm winter clothes for men and women.

The only problem however is that that they have lost some of their amazing volunteers who have returned to their own countries or gone back to their work so they really do need more helpers who would be happy to get involved between 10am and 2pm as often as they can.

Please call Angela on 609 848 622 or pop into the shop at to 356 Ave Joan Miro opposite the Port of Calanova if you can help.

Fire risk nience they offer for moving around and the ease of charging but already they have been banned from buses and trains because of fire risk.

The tips include that you should always use the charger and batteries indicated by the manufacturer. When charging, do not do so near combustible materials or when the device is wet.

They shouldn’t be charged if the batteries have suffered any impact or damage, nor left charging unsupervised and don’t connect too many devices at the same time.

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STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Children’s race DUE to forecast strong winds, Palma Council postponed the 14th Reis OK Mobility Children’s Race from January 5 to Sunday January 7.

Organised by the Institut Municipal de l’Esport (IME), the annual race aims to promote sports in children and is a free, non-competitive test, for children aged up to 12.

Those up to five years of age were accompanied by their parents and covered 200 metres, then six and seven-year-olds ran for 400 metres, those eight to 10 faced a 600 metre course, with the 11-year-olds running 800 metres.

All children participating received a snack, some fruit and a commemorative t-shirt.

The Euro Weekly News publishes more content both online at euroweeklynews.com and in its papers than any other English news publication in SPAIN Spain.

Even better, our news online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.

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euroweeklynews.com II NEWS/FEATURE

11 - 17 January 2024

Moving forward together VIEWPOINT BILL ANDERSON LIFE sometimes takes us in unexpected directions, and whilst I have been writing columns for the Euro Weekly News (EWN) for some time now, being appointed Editor was never on my radar. Having said that, I am both excited and enthusiastic about working with the team to take the brand forward.

I am delighted to have joined the Euro Weekly team.

After four years in the political world, it is good to return to the real world and contributing to getting the news out there is a challenge. News content is a bit like restaurant menus: some like McDonald’s, and some like Michelin Star restaurants. The important thing is having enough variety that everyone can leave happy and satisfied. I will be working on this with the team. I’m sure we will not please everyone, but that’s life.

For some time now, the Euro Weekly News

(EWN) has been in pole position amongst all of the independent Press in Spain in championing the excellent work done by charitable organisations and those who raise funds for good causes. This commitment will continue.

As we enter 2024, many parts of Spain still face challenges. Although we have had a smattering of rain, drought is still the order of the day with many areas dealing with continued water restrictions.

There have been many political debates around this matter but very little action. Without having expertise in the area of water storage and supply, I do understand that desalination is one way forward, but not an absolute solution to the problem. Construction around the coasts escalates without a clear solution to the water supply problem.

Transport also presents some challenges for 2024. With Low Emission Zones (LEZ) being introduced in many of the larger municipalities, many people with older vehicles could find themselves in difficulty.

The reality for those of us who live along the Spanish coast, with one or two exceptions, is

that we live moderately rural lives with very limited public transport options or even availability. There has been a lot of ‘jaw-jaw’ about this, but we know that major improvements will not happen overnight.

Politicians are often very good at making life harder for us, but not so efficient at anticipating future needs and acting before it becomes a problem.

2024 could be a big year internationally, as there are around 40 elections taking place.

Let’s see if it is more of the same or all change for the better, or otherwise. There have been some big shifts in voting preferences in recent times, so could it be exciting times ahead?

Who knows?

I have been staggered by all of your good wishes at my appointment and appreciate the constructive comments about going forward.

I will be looking for your continued involvement in content and look forward to working with you. We want to listen to your views and the EWN team hopes to provide you with the news and content you are looking for in ‘The People’s Paper’.

Bill Anderson’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors. bill-anderson@euroweeklynews.com

PROVERB OF THE WEEK If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

This was originally an African proverb meaning don’t wait, go along so you are not held back by others.

ORA badge IF you are a Palma Resident and want to renew your ORA resident badge for 2024 then you have until January 31 to do so at a cost of €24 which must be either sent via bank transfer or paid with a credit/debit card.

The renewal will allow users to update changes that have occurred throughout the year, such as change of address, residence permit or change of vehicle. And the badge can be applied for online or in person.

If you wish to obtain the ORA badge in person, you will need to visit the Citizen Assistance Office (OAC) located in the Local Police building on Avenida de Sant Ferran but an appointment is mandatory by visiting www.palma.cat, www.mobipalma.mobi or by calling 971 225 571.

This year, a total of 16,550 residents can renew the ORA zone badge, which is more than 1,000 less compared to 2023.

Self-certification NO matter where you live, queues at hospitals and primary health care centres are unavoidable but not allowing self-assessment for short periods of minor illness adds to the problems.

This is the argument of local political party MÉS per Mallorca which believes that if you have a cold or something similar which will be over within three days then it should be possible to avoid going to get a certificate from a doctor.

“We can’t tell people that they don’t need to go to the doctor for a mild condition, but that they should go to the doctor for a proof of absence from work,” explained MÉS deputy for Mallorca, Marta Carrió.

Her party believes that short absences should be covered by self-certification as they are in countries like Germany, Sweden and the UK and to demand a certificate is simply an unnecessary bureaucratic procedure.

By agreeing to this demand, they believe that the Ministry of Health would see an improvement in waiting times at primary health centres and a reduction in pressure on medical staff.

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Swimmer saved Bonfire celebrations Michael Cano AT 3.30pm on Wednesday January 3, an alert was received from 112 emergency services that a woman was in distress on the rocks near Palma’s Dique del Oeste (West Dam).

Three officers from the Port Police responded to the call and they saw that the waves had pushed her out to sea and that she was in trouble about 150 metres from the shore.

They also spotted that she was being given some assistance from a man believed to be in his 60s who had di-

Credit: Balearic Ports Facebook

WOMAN IN DISTRESS: Palma Port Police to the rescue.

ved in to try to bring her to safety but was unable to do so.

All three officers stripped off their uniforms and also dived in, although one was

injured on the rocks and had to return to shore.

The other two made it to the couple, with the female in great distress and the male seemingly exhausted, although whilst they got the woman afloat, the man managed to make his way back to the shore where he was given assistance by emergency services.

After around 15 minutes, a port pilots vessel arrived and they were all taken on board and rescued, with the woman needing emergency assistance before she was then taken to hospital.

THE Festival of Sant Antoni Abad, patron saint of animals, is one of the most celebrated festivals in Mallorca.

Although the actual festival date is Wednesday, January 17, the celebrations in Calvia begin this weekend on Saturday, January 13, from 3pm in Son Ferrer, at 6pm in Costa de la Calma and at 8pm in Costa d’en Blanes.

The most spectacular celebrations are most

likely to take place in Sa Pobla, Manacor and Arta where foguerons (bonfires) and dimonis (demons) are at the forefront and these celebrations have been recorded as far back as the 13th century, a time when agriculture and animals were so important and the Devil was blamed for mishaps.

Amongst all of the smoke, music and celebration expect to see

ALMOST two years ago Palma Council agreed with the FAGIB (Federation of Gypsy Entities of the Balearic Islands) to dismantle what is known as the ‘Gypsy ghetto’ of Son Banya.

The agreement required that the families who would be dispossessed would receive financial assistance as well as public housing but until now nothing has happened.

Back in October 2022, the president of the Federation of Gypsy Entities of the Balearic Islands, Carlos Cortés, complained about the lack of action and inferred that there was racial prejudice as no community was likely to welcome the arrival of the Gypsies.

the parade of the caperrots (big heads and giants) and on January 17, expect to see people walking their animals and possibly a few church services where they are welcome.

There will actually be no less than 13 additional bonfire celebrations in the Calvia area running from January 19 (Sant Sebasti) to January 28 and details of these will be given in next week’s paper.

Son Banya He told the Union of the Romani People through Ultima Hora that “Son Banya is a major disaster. There are no pipes, there is light and electricity only sometimes and about 200 children live there with around 500 adults.”

Now, on Tuesday, January 9, he has once again spoken out demanding that something is done and that if between them, the Palma Council, Consell de Mallorca and Balearic Government don’t come up with concrete plans within a week then the agreement will be void.

Helping Guatemala EVEN though there are many social problems in Mallorca and the Balearics generally, the Balearic Government is involved in assisting the government of Guatemala.

It has invested €125,000 in 11 projects associated with health, hygiene, homelessness and care of children.

One of its officers, José Francisco Giménez has been in the area monitoring the project which is run under the auspices of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and he has now presented his report to the Ministry of Families and Social Affairs.

One of the main pro-

blems that the Guatemalan government faces is that the Trifinio, border area between Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras is a main corridor for those migrants trying to make their way to a new life in the USA and this is where much of the financial support has been aimed.

Incommunicado

STRONG winds caused havoc in both Banyalbufar (home to Richard Branson’s Son Bunyola luxury hotel) and Estellencs after a tree blew down.

Due to the fact that it hit cables which control internet and telephone access, the residents of both municipalities were left incommunicado over the Three Kings

weekend and couldn’t even call emergency services.

At least the roads were open and electricity was untouched so that the it was possible to physically contact the supplier (Teleco) when their offices were open so that they were then able to send out engineers to resolved the problem.

FEATURE II euroweeklynews.com

11 - 17 January 2024

POSTCARD FROM THE GAMBIA

ital.

trict Hosp is D a m a k ri B to t si vi Our

Gambia

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Alan Boardman is well-known for his Walking Tours in Mijas, quizzes and a range of other activities for charity. Now, he and his wife are in The Gambia laden with donations from local residents and charitable groups.

So what does The Gambia have to do with Spain? My wife, Jenny and I are on holiday there and have taken with us thousands of articles donated to what we called our EYEDROP campaign.

The Gambia, despite having a successful tourist industry, is among the poorest countries in the world, rating 174 out of 191 in the world wealth index. This means there is a major issue with eyesight, the treatment for which is desperately underfunded. Spectacles in The Gambia are very expensive and are simply out of reach for most people.

Before leaving our home in Mijas we launched the EYEDROP appeal, as a result of which, almost 400 pairs of new and used spectacles were donated by the general public. We received sterling support from several local charities and businesses who allowed their premises to be used as donation centres.

Earlier this week we visited Brikama District Hospital, one of the busiest in The Gambia. We were met there by Doctor Adam, Head of Ophthalmology, who then accepted from us around 200 pairs of the donated spectacles. She was thrilled.

She stressed just how important the donation will be in her department’s constant battle to provide free eye care. She asked us to pass on her heartfelt thanks to all the people of the Costa del Sol who made this possible. We’ll send another Gambian postcard next week.

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euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

Dire Straits

PRIOR to a genuine British rock band (Jethro Tull) playing at the Palma Auditorium, there’s a chance to catch up with some top tributes.

Firstly on Friday February 2, it’s a first visit by gREAT sTRAITS founded by guitarist Óscar Rosende who performed with Dire Straits Tribute Brothers in Band for several years, playing Mark Knopfler on more than 250 occasions.

Now with this new nine piece band he is following the same route due to his absolute commitment to

keeping the Dire Straits songbook alive now that the band is unlikely to ever reform.

An unsolicited quote from former Dire Straits keyboard player Guy Fletcher confirms how accurate the band is when he confessed “I was playing Why Aye Man and I have to say that I thought it

was one of our recordings.”

So to enjoy such classical songs as Sultans of swing, Romeo and Juliet, Brothers in Arms, Tunnel of Love and Money for Nothing, tickets cost between €38 and €45 but act fast as they are selling out.

More about tributes next week.

Credit: gREAT sTRAITS Facebook

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GREAT STRAITS: The new band on stage.

Departure tax John Smith ON January 1, 2024 the Dutch airport departure tax jumps from €7.95 to €26.43 per passenger in a bid to try to make a difference between the cost of air and rail travel and many see the concept of increasing these prices as being the thin end of the wedge leading to the concept of State control with the 15 Minute City plans.

Now desperate to raise funds, the Bundestag (German Parliament) is debating a government proposal that with effect from May 1, 2024, the departure tax for all travellers flying out of the country could soar from €15.53 to a staggering €70.83 depending on the length of the journey.

Looking at Spain and particularly Mallorca which needs tourism to generate revenue, the potential loss of German tourists, especially families who could see their budgets shot to pieces with these hikes, means the future doesn’t look quite so rosy.

End of sunbed wars?

THE dreaded sunbed wars could be over after tourists won compensation from travel company TUI. German tourists have been awarded compensation by a court in Hanover, Germany after complaining about the morning sunbed race at a Greek hotel. Managers at the Atlantica Mikri Poli hotel in Rhodes instigated a ‘no reservation’ policy that meant guests who put down towels on their sunbeds had to use them or lose them.

However, the German holidaymakers told the court they’d been unable to find any available sun loungers on one occasion.

They reported that staff at the TUI hotel failed to implement the policy, which meant, they said, that on one morning they’d been unable to find any available sunbeds around any of the resort’s six pools.

Hanover District Court ordered the hotel to pay €300 as compensation for

Photo: Atlantica Mikri Poli Rhodes

RHODES HOTEL: Introduced a ‘no reservation’ policy.

the part of the holiday the family had been unable to enjoy. The verdict is still subject to an appeal and is not yet legally binding.

However, could this be the beginning of the end for the sunbed wars between holidaymakers that seem to have got out of control during the summer of 2023?

Reports in both British and Spanish press from August 2023 cited war had broken out in areas including the Costa del Sol, where some tourists told a news source that they waited up to two hours for

prime spots at the four-star Hotel Estival in Torrequebrada.

A Spanish news source also reported on the daily morning sun lounger race at a Tenerife hotel to which readers reacted with incredulity on social media that holidaymakers would set their alarms for 6am to bag their favourite sunbeds.

It will be interesting to see if the decision by the German court is upheld and if so whether it will stop the escalation of the sunbed wars.

Watch this space!

10 EWN 11 - 17 January 2024

IRELAND Flu season THE National Clinical Lead for Health Protection Surveillance said at the beginning of January that more than 10,000 flu cases had been recorded since the middle of December. Nevertheless, the outbreak is not expected to peak until mid-January, when up to 800 people could need hospitalisation each week.

Old bangers APPROXIMATELY half of the 1.5 million vehicles given full roadworthiness tests last year did not pass, the National Car Testing (NCT) service said. Vehicles taken to the Cavan centre had a higher failure than those tested at any other NCT centre, with 59 per cent of vehicles getting the thumbsdown.

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS ITALY Sunday outing ITALY’S Domenica al Museo (Museums on Sunday) initiative continues throughout 2024, giving free entrance to state-owned monuments, museums and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of each month. The scheme, introduced in 2014 was suspended during the pandemic but resumed in 2022.

Breezing along BELGIUM’S offshore windfarms in the North Sea produced record amounts of electricity in 2023, generating eight terawatt-hours of electricity, enough for two million households during a year. A total of 689 offshore and land-based wind turbines now covers almost one-10th of Belgium’s electricity consumption.

Going up

COLOSSEUM: Free entrance on first Sunday of the month.

SWEDEN

BELGIUM

Photo credit: CC/Sjaak Kempe

FRANCE

GERMANY

A WEEKLY grocery shop last December cost 29 per cent more than the previous year, said consumer association TestAankoop which monitors 3,000 products in Belgium’s seven biggest supermarket chains. Test-Aankoop also found that last December’s prices rose 8.1 per cent compared with December 2022.

DENMARK

Pink stink

Not alone

Kitted out

Law-abiding

WASTE management company Think Pink, famous for its pink rubbish bags, was accused of burying and dumping tens of thousands of tons of rubbish at 21 illicit sites in 15 Swedish municipalities. Eleven people linked to the company now face charges for committing Swedens’s “worever environmental crime.”

FEDERAL CRIMINAL POLICE figures show that many women feel uneasy when walking alone in the dark. Anybody, male or female, who feels anxious walking at night can now call the free “Way-home” hotline, answered by a volunteer will talk to them until they reach their destination.

EDUCATION Minister Gabriel Attal issued a guide intended to help local authorities implement his plan to introduce uniforms in state schools throughout the country.

Although the initiative has backing from some right-wing politicians, most teachers and parents said they opposed Attal’s proposals.

ONLY 660 burglaries were reported in Denmark between December 19 and January 1, 2024. This was slightly above the 559 recorded during the same period in the previous year but well below 2019’s 1,343, a reduction the authorities attributed the success to the Nabohjaelp neighbourhood watch app.

Airbus probe

Distaff side

FORENSIC experts from Toulouse-based Airbus and France’s BAE state agency flew to Japan on January 3 to assist an investigation into the runway accident involving an A350 and a coastguards’ plane. Five coastguards died but none of the Airbus’s 367 passengers and 12 crew were injured in the resulting blaze.

IT was agreed at a board meeting of Superliga club Copenhagen FC that the club would take over FC Damso’s first team, currently ranked in Denmark’s third tier of women’s football. This has replaced wealthy Copenhagen’s plans to create a women’s team and place it directly in the top division.

Read about it GOTHENBURG UNIVERSITY researchers found last year that the young “are getting better at understanding academic English, but worse at understanding academic Swedish.” They now read much more in English, prompting publishers to predict that fewer books will be translated into Swedish in future.

NORWAY

I spy THE authorities are allegedly concerned about the state-controlled China Scholarship Council (CSC) which sends thousands of students to Germany each year, Der Spiegel newspaper said. It claimed security officials have warned that they could be used for “spying on, and influencing, Chinese expatriates.”

FINLAND

THE NETHERLANDS

PORTUGAL

Not going

Namesakes

Tree plan

Horse sense

FOLLOWING Queen Margrethe of Denmark’s unexpected abdication, royal watchers are asking if Norway’s King Harald, who is 86, will follow suit. Despite bouts of ill-health, including cancer in 2003, Harald has always said that he would occupy the throne “to the bitter end”, according to royal expert Caroline Vagle.

JULIA and Noah were the most popular children’s names in 2023, according to Holland’s SVB national insurance schemes. In all, 681 baby girls received the name of Julia, and 888 boys were registered as Noah while the gender-neutral name of Riley was given to 84 girls and 82 boys.

THE Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority (HSY) is once again collecting tens of thousands of Christmas trees for recycling now the holiday season is over. Trees left at Helsinki residents’ nearest waste collection or recycling points are then chipped and used as a bulking agent when composting bio-waste.

STRONG, stocky Garrano horses, first domesticated 16,000 years ago, could disappear now that they are no longer needed in agriculture. Eighty years ago there were 60,000 Garranos in Portugal but this has shrunk to between 1,500 and 3,000, the Association of Garrano Horse Breeders (Acerg) warned.

Try again

Law-abiding

US oil

Bullfight fans

AN Appeals Court confirmed that the naval officer in charge of the frigate Helge Ingstad when it was involved in a collision in November 2018 was guilty of negligence. His lawyer said that the officer, who remains in the Navy, believes he is being made a scapegoat and could now appeal to the Supreme Court.

MURDERS during 2023 in Amsterdam fell to a low of 11, two of them involving women, the Parool newspaper reported. Firearms were used in four of the killings but only two were gang-related and several of the crimes were committed by men who were diagnosed with psychiatric problems, police said.

A CUSTOMS service revealed the US as Finland’s third-largest export destination and also the country’s fifth-largest source of imports for Finland during the first nine months of 2023. The increase in crude oil imports from the US reflected a change of strategy following the veto on trade with Russia.

THE 176 bullfights that were held in Portugal last year attracted 400,700 aficionados, a 7 per cent increase on 2022, the Portuguese Bullfighting Federation (ProToiro) revealed. This was the second-best figure since 2016, outstripped only by 2019 when a record 428,000 people went to watch bullfights.

FINANCE DAME EMMA WALMSLEY, chief executive of biopharma giant GlaxoSmithKline, said Britain was “uniquely placed” in the drug development market owing to its background of academic skill and high-profile companies. “I’m a great optimist about the UK,’ she told a BBC Radio 4 interviewer.

Planning ahead

THE time that unpaid interns spend with companies in Spain will be included in the calculations of years worked when they reach pensionable age. This new measure, which came into force on January 1, will affect 1.2 students currently acquiring work experience, the Social Security ministry said.

Cash needed

CAMBRIDGE PROPERTIES HOLDINGS LTD, created in 2021 for the Selfridges takeover by Thailand’s Central Group and Austrian company Signa, has asked the former for more cash following Signa’s collapse. Selfridges’ property arm also needs to repay a £27.3 million (€31.6 million) shareholder loan in May.

Early sales

WINTER sales in Spain normally begin on January 7 once the Christmas holiday is finally over but fashion chains H & M, Cortefiel and Bimba y Lola broke with tradition by starting theirs on December 28.

Smaller businesses warned that profit margins were so narrow, they could not afford to slash prices so early.

Shopping spree

FRIDAY December 22 was the UK’s most popular shopping day over the recent festive season, with 25 million trips made and £803 million (€929 million) spent in person, 85 per cent more than on an average Friday in 2023. Online spending remained steady at 11.6 per cent, data specialists Kantar said.

STAT OF WEEK

€2.7 billion

estimated value of Tendam if the owner of Cortefiel, Springfield, Women’s Secret and Hoss Intropia goes ahead with plans to float the company on the Madrid stock exchange.

M & S on top again

Linda Hall MARKS & SPENCER shares reached a five-year high when trading resumed on the London stock exchange after the Christmas break.

At one point on January 2, M & S shares shot up 2.5 per cent to increase the company’s value by more than £70 million (€80.8 million), while finishing the day 1.3 per cent higher.

BNP Paribas analysts singled out M&S stock as one of their first choices for 2024 and predicted that the company would turn out to be Christmas 2023’s “likely winner.”

Its market capitalisation

Photo credit: CC/Mtaylor 848

Looking good

euroweeklynews.com • 11 - 17 January 2024

M&S: Buoyant New Year start for high street stalwart.

has practically doubled to £5.5 billion (€6.3 billion) over the last 12 months, putting the company back into the FTSE 100 last August, four years after its 2019 relegation.

In 2007 M & S was worth £12 billion (€13.8 billion) but

between 2014 and 2019 the high street stalwart lost much of its sheen as well as 60 per cent of its market value amid criticism of “tired stores” and failing to cater for its core clientele.

The hoped-for revival plotted by M & S chairman

Archie Norman and chief executive Stuart Machin is paying off and its lacklustre clothing and homeware sections no longer lag behind the food departments.

By last November, profits rose by more than £100 million (€115.5 million), permitting the company’s first dividend payout since the pandemic.

Commentators have also pointed out that M & S is better-protected than many rival companies because a fair proportion of its most faithful clients are able to continue spending as normal, despite the costof-living crisis.

Iberdrola calls off US deal

IBERDROLA pulled out of its $8.3 billion (€7.5 billion) acquisition of New Mexico-based PNM Resources.

The deal, which would have made Iberdrola subsidiary Avangrid one of the largest utility companies in the US, was cancelled on January 2.

Avangrid explained that the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission vetoed the transaction in 2021 on “quality of service” grounds and a subsequent appeal was now enmired in the courts.

The New Mexico regulator had also cited the Villarejo scandal which named Iberdrola chairman Ignacio

Slowdown for factories MANUFACTURING in Spain slowed for the ninth consecutive month in December, the Hamburg Commercial Bank and S&P Global’s Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) revealed.

December earned 46.2 points compared with November’s 46.3, with both below the 50 cutoff separating contraction from growth.

Last month’s slowdown reflected a falling-off of new orders owing to reduced national and international demand, the PMI showed.

Instead, the country’s manufacturers cut back on production and used existing stocks, reducing reserves of raw materials and semi-finished goods for the ninth month running.

Photo credit: Avangrid

BUSINESS EXTRA

12

IGNACIO GALAN: Chairman of Iberdrola and Avangrid.

Galan in the business and political intrigues of former policeman Jose Manuel Villarejo. The Spanish courts cleared Galan last June.

The PNM deal was approved by five US federal agencies and Texas’s public utility commission, but Avangrid explained on January 2 that with “no clear timing” on the New Mexico appeal, it was cancelling the deal in line with the terms of the PNM agreement.

Goldman Sachs analysts quoted by the Financial Times said Iberdrola’s decision was a “strategic positive” as interest rates had soared since the merger was announced. It also avoided a €9 billion hike in Iberdrola’s net debt, taking this it to approximately €55 billion.

Disappearing cash

THE UK’s farmers accused the government of reneging on its pledge to spend an annual £2.4 billion (€2.8 billion) on agriculture.

The government promised that by the end of the present parliament this £2.4 billion would be compensating for the disappearance of the EU’s common agricultural policy which paid farmers for each hectare of land they managed.

Instead, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) figures show that it underspent by £110 million (€127.5 million) between 2021 and 22 and £117 million (€135.6 million) between 2022 and 23.

In all, £227 million (€263 million) of the pledged cash has not reached them, the farmers said.

Gold rush SALES of gold, precious metals and coins rose 7 per cent last year compared with 2022.

As the number of people turning to gold overtakes the 2020 boom experienced during lockdown, the Royal Mint said this was the result of an increase in smaller investors looking for a “safe haven.”

Nevertheless, the Royal Mint’s payments to customers selling back their gold soared by almost 50 per cent as gold reached a record high last year.

It was also likely that gold would climb to new levels during 2024 if interest rates were to fall, Royal Mint analyst Stuart O’Reilly predicted.

Looking ahead Come clean Logical expansion

THE New Year is a time for predictions, and economist Roger Bootle foresaw that 2024 would be “unusually uncertain.”

But writing in the Telegraph Bootle also predicted “significant” cuts in interest rates before long, with the US leading the way.

The Fed might be able to cut interest rates as early as March, he said, followed by the eurozone and then the UK in the last few months of the year, if not before.

Britain’s key problem, Bootle stated, was the stubbornness of pay inflation, which would not be assisted by next April’s sizeable increase in the National Living Wage.

“Even so, by the end of the year, CPI inflation should be down to about 1.2 per cent, but with the core rate considerably higher, at about 2.5 per cent.”

UNILEVER should be more open regarding its tax situation in Russia, pro-Ukraine campaigners said.

After the Ukraine invasion, Unilever stopped all imports and exports to Russia but decided to continue producing “everyday essential food” including ice cream at its factories there.

Activists called on the company, which makes Persil, Hellman’s and Marmite, to disclose how much it has paid in taxes to the Kremlin in the past year.

The request followed the Russian government’s announcement last December that it would eliminate the need for “certain businesses” to publish trading details although it is not yet known whether this covers Unilever.

SPANISH logistics group has bought Belgium Parcels Service (BPS), a company that specialises in the urgent distribution of pharmaceuticals in Belgium and Luxembourg.

“This acquisition represents an important milestone in Logista’s expansion in Europe,” the company announced. “It also strengthens its position in pharmaceutical distribution and the courier segment.”

BPS provides 24-hour courier services in Belgium and Luxembourg, as well as 24- and 48-hour services in the Netherlands, France and Germany.

Logista paid approximately €8 million for BPS, as it continues its strategy of focusing on geographical and business diversification.

14 EWN 11 - 17 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 8 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.281,00............. -56,00............-2,40%.......... 286,76K

InterContinental..........................7.032,0............... -96,0.............-1,35%........... 60,75K

Abrdn.......................................... 169,18................ -4,10.............-2,36%.......... 615,33K

Intermediate Capital...................1.578,50............. -38,00............-2,35%........... 53,70K

Admiral Group.............................2.669,0............... -31,0.............-1,15%........... 29,44K

Intertek........................................4.209,0............... -67,0.............-1,57%........... 32,23K

Anglo American...........................1.846,0............... -26,6.............-1,42%.......... 458,05K

ITV............................................... 62,88................. -0,62.............-0,98%.......... 785,18K

Antofagasta................................1.595,00.............. -9,50.............-0,59%........... 79,33K

J Sainsbury................................. 304,50................ -3,70.............-1,20%............1,88M

Ashtead Group............................5.074,0.............. -170,0............-3,24%.......... 116,43K

Johnson Matthey........................1.605,5............... -44,0.............-2,67%........... 52,32K

Associated British Foods.............2.346,0............... -28,0.............-1,18%.......... 234,06K

Land Securities........................... 686,40............... -10,00............-1,44%.......... 116,55K

AstraZeneca...............................10.802,0.............. -62,0.............-0,57%.......... 108,69K

Legal & General.......................... 241,86................ -4,30.............-1,75%............2,47M

Auto Trader Group Plc................ 686,60................ -8,80.............-1,26%.......... 198,66K

Lloyds Banking............................ 46,92................. -0,63.............-1,32%...........18,53M

Aviva........................................... 426,60................ -6,50.............-1,50%.......... 637,18K

London Stock Exchange..............8.960,0............... -50,0.............-0,56%.......... 311,42K

B&M European Value Retail SA... 544,80................ -8,20.............-1,48%.......... 339,70K

Melrose Industries...................... 548,20................ -8,00.............-1,44%.......... 543,65K

BAE Systems..............................1.149,00.............. -6,50.............-0,56%.......... 787,03K

Mondi.........................................1.490,00............. -47,50............-3,09%.......... 340,61K

Barclays...................................... 153,50................ -2,08.............-1,34%............6,13M Barratt Developments................. 540,80............... -10,00............-1,82%.......... 803,87K Berkeley......................................4.722,0............... -53,0.............-1,11%........... 16,76K BHP Group Ltd...........................2.572,00............. -54,50............-2,08%.......... 241,63K BP............................................... 471,70................ -1,75.............-0,37%............3,43M British American Tobacco...........2.355,5............... -11,0.............-0,47%.......... 425,72K British Land Company................. 392,10................ -3,70.............-0,94%.......... 685,07K BT Group.................................... 120,45................ -1,15.............-0,95%............2,49M Bunzl...........................................3.139,0............... -45,0.............-1,41%........... 48,12K Burberry Group...........................1.364,0................+4,5............. +0,33%......... 318,27K Carnival.......................................1.184,5............... -19,0.............-1,58%........... 57,56K Centrica....................................... 147,65................+0,30............ +0,20%...........1,58M Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.290,0............... -19,0.............-0,82%........... 59,92K Compass....................................2.126,00.............. -8,00.............-0,38%.......... 229,48K CRH............................................5.184,0............... -66,0.............-1,26%........... 53,69K Croda Intl....................................4.597,9............... -69,0.............-1,48%.......... 137,69K DCC.............................................5.638,8............... -76,0.............-1,33%........... 28,44K Diageo.........................................2.742,0............... -66,5.............-2,37%............3,75M DS Smith.................................... 296,40................ -6,70.............-2,21%.......... 327,07K EasyJet........................................ 490,00................ -7,10.............-1,43%.......... 430,80K Experian......................................3.034,0............... -17,0.............-0,56%.......... 261,57K Ferguson....................................14.565,0............. -145,0............-0,99%............ 7,45K Flutter Entertainment..................13.200,0............. -165,0............-1,24%.......... 106,48K Fresnillo...................................... 535,80................ -7,20.............-1,33%.......... 232,12K Glencore...................................... 459,55................+0,30............ +0,07%...........2,14M GSK plc......................................1.535,00.............. -4,40.............-0,29%............2,24M Halma..........................................2.113,0............... -32,0.............-1,49%........... 94,21K Hargreaves Lansdown................. 717,30................ -9,60.............-1,32%.......... 304,37K Hikma Pharma...........................1.831,00............. -19,50............-1,05%........... 55,58K HSBC.......................................... 629,70................ -2,80.............-0,44%............2,73M IAG.............................................. 150,80................ -2,50.............-1,63%............1,91M Imperial Brands..........................1.845,00............. -15,00............-0,81%.......... 127,86K Informa....................................... 762,60............... -12,40............-1,60%.......... 266,61K

National Grid..............................1.068,00............. -10,50............-0,97%.......... 510,26K NatWest Group........................... 218,80................ -1,30.............-0,59%............2,15M Next............................................8.371,5.............. -178,0............-2,08%.......... 334,12K

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page 0.86213

1.15965

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0913 Japan yen (JPY)...................................158.51 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9310 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4583 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.298 currenciesdirect.com/mallorca • Tel: +34 687 906 226 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES

Tui............................................... 582,50............... -21,00............-3,48%............1,25M

Closing Prices 8 January 3M.............................................. 108,20................+0,41............ +0,38%...........1,98M American Express....................... 187,10................+1,38............ +0,75%...........2,66M Amgen........................................ 303,17................+2,48............ +0,82%...........2,72M Apple........................................... 181,91................ -2,34.............-1,27%...........56,64M Boeing......................................... 245,00................+1,09............ +0,45%...........4,25M Caterpillar.................................... 286,14................+1,84............ +0,65%...........2,67M Chevron...................................... 150,72................ -1,61.............-1,06%............6,33M Cisco............................................ 50,08................. -0,43.............-0,85%...........12,65M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,77................. -0,19.............-0,31%...........11,18M Dow............................................. 54,19................. -0,44.............-0,81%............3,83M Goldman Sachs........................... 383,12................+1,33............ +0,35%...........1,03M Home Depot................................ 338,67................+0,41............ +0,12%...........2,64M Honeywell................................... 204,90................+0,37............ +0,18%...........2,18M IBM............................................. 160,86................+0,76............ +0,47%...........2,33M Intel.............................................. 46,87................. -0,18.............-0,38%...........46,78M J&J............................................. 160,63................ -0,34.............-0,21%............6,00M JPMorgan................................... 171,50................+1,22............ +0,72%..........10,18M McDonald’s................................. 291,84................ -2,55.............-0,87%............4,20M Merck&Co................................... 117,09................+2,32............ +2,02%...........8,90M Microsoft.................................... 367,94................ -2,66.............-0,72%...........16,06M Nike............................................. 102,35................ -1,69.............-1,62%............7,66M Procter&Gamble......................... 148,67................+0,83............ +0,56%...........4,24M Salesforce Inc............................. 251,24................ -0,60.............-0,24%............3,91M The Travelers.............................. 192,54................+1,24............ +0,65%...........1,82M UnitedHealth............................... 545,71................+3,68............ +0,68%...........2,13M Verizon......................................... 39,38.................+0,22............ +0,57%..........22,38M Visa A.......................................... 259,76................+1,78............ +0,69%...........2,56M Walgreens Boots.......................... 24,26................. -1,31.............-5,12%...........60,12M Walmart...................................... 157,76................ -1,54.............-0,97%............5,73M Walt Disney.................................. 90,58................. -1,07.............-1,17%............9,59M

Unilever.......................................3.824,0............... -18,5.............-0,48%.......... 337,03K

M - Million Dollars

Ocado.......................................... 708,60............... -25,60............-3,49%.......... 138,71K Persimmon.................................1.375,5............... -11,5.............-0,83%.......... 215,42K Phoenix....................................... 514,07............... -10,00............-1,91%.......... 302,68K Prudential.................................... 819,30............... -16,20............-1,94%............1,03M Reckitt Benckiser........................5.506,0............... -12,0.............-0,22%.......... 119,36K Relx............................................3.082,00............. -25,00............-0,81%.......... 686,87K Rentokil....................................... 411,40................ -2,60.............-0,63%.......... 567,16K Rightmove.................................. 549,98................ -9,00.............-1,61%.......... 170,69K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.658,0............... -96,0.............-1,67%.......... 392,44K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 293,10................ -4,80.............-1,61%............2,45M Sage...........................................1.129,00............. -19,00............-1,66%.......... 281,58K Samsung Electronics DRC.........1.441,00............. -15,00............-1,03%............ 2,23K Schroders.................................... 423,0.................. -8,7..............-2,02%.......... 159,20K Scottish Mortgage....................... 753,20................ -9,00.............-1,18%.......... 445,33K Segro.......................................... 856,60................ -7,60.............-0,88%.......... 204,15K Severn Trent...............................2.558,8............... -23,0.............-0,89%........... 57,20K Shell............................................2.575,8............... -18,5.............-0,71%.......... 932,61K Smith & Nephew........................1.042,00.............. -9,00.............-0,86%.......... 107,08K Smiths Group.............................1.693,50............. -26,50............-1,54%........... 39,91K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........9.680,0.............. -182,0............-1,85%............ 5,29K SSE............................................1.841,00.............. -5,00.............-0,27%.......... 157,55K St. James’s Place........................ 642,00............... -12,40............-1,90%.......... 301,81K Standard Chartered..................... 641,80................ -9,60.............-1,47%............2,80M Taylor Wimpey............................ 142,70................ -1,55.............-1,07%............2,54M Tesco.......................................... 299,10................ -3,30.............-1,09%............2,89M

United Utilities............................1.049,50............. -14,00............-1,32%.......... 122,10K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 70,010............... -0,440............-0,62%............4,27M Whitbread...................................3.548,0............... -33,0.............-0,92%........... 68,76K WPP............................................ 762,40...............+20,20........... +2,72%...........1,32M

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 8 January

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced QuantumScape Corporation............................... +2.80.......................... +43.08% Recursion Pharmaceuticals, Inc......................... +1.42.......................... +14.65% Peloton Interactive, Inc...................................... +0.75.......................... +13.94% Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc........................... +2.84.......................... +12.10% Select Medical Holdings Corporation................. +2.65.......................... +11.28% MINISO Group Holding Limited......................... +1.97........................... +9.89% Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc........................ +2.56........................... +8.01% The Simply Good Foods Company..................... +3.10........................... +7.83% Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.................................. +5.90........................... +7.75% Rocket Lab USA, Inc.......................................... +0.37........................... +7.25% M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Mobileye Global Inc............................................-9.75...........................-24.55% Endeavour Mining plc.........................................-2.20...........................-10.14% Nextracker Inc.....................................................-4.29............................-9.24% Evotec SE............................................................-0.91............................-8.66% Livent Corporation..............................................-1.54............................-8.53% Sunrun Inc..........................................................-1.38............................-7.48% APA Corporation.................................................-2.70............................-7.35% Array Technologies, Inc......................................-1.19............................-7.16% Allegro MicroSystems, Inc..................................-1.84............................-6.36% Organon & Co.....................................................-0.85............................-5.81% EchoStar Corporation..........................................-0.82............................-5.73% M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com

BUSINESS EXTRA Win and lose

REVENUES from David Beckham’s business interests, which included deals with Netflix and the Qatar World Cup, doubled last year to £72.6 million (€84.2 million) compared with £34.3 million (€39.7 million) in 2022.

Meanwhile wife Victoria’s fashion firm will continue to require shareholder support after reporting pretax losses of £3.1 million (€3.6 million) in 2023.

Rome contract

SPANISH rolling stock manufacturer CAF secured a €130 million contract to build 40 trams for Rome city hall and maintain and repair these for five years.

The company, which is based in Beasain (Guipuzcoa), revealed that the initial order from ATAC, Rome’s publicly-owned transport company, could be extended to €400 million and 121 trains.

11 - 17 January 2024

Festive spending spree

Linda Hall GROCERY price inflation slowed to 6.7 per cent in December compared with November’s 7.7 per cent, British Retail Consortium figures revealed.

Food inflation dropped to its lowest since April 2022, and although sweets, eggs and frozen potato products rose, dairy items, including butter, milk and cream, were cheaper.

Meanwhile, supermarket chains had their bu-

Photo credit: Aldi/Richard Grange United National Photographers

ALDI: Discount chain’s sales grew by 9.9 per cent

siest Christmas since 2019, data specialists Kantar an-

nounced.

“The inflation rate is co-

Very fair shares

SPAIN’S Ibex 35, equivalent to the UK’s FTSE 100, had a record year and a return to pre-pandemic levels.

Its 23 per cent improvement was principally due to the textile giant Inditex as well as the Santander and BBVA banks, although analysts described Inditex as the Spanish stock exchange’s “principal mainstay.”

The company founded and still con-

trolled by Amancio Ortega closed the year with a 59.9 per cent upsurge in its share price, surpassed only by pharmaceutical company Rovi’s 65.5 per cent increase.

On November 21, Inditex shares beat their own record, overtaking the €36.7 of June 2017 but continued their climb to end 2023 with a price just a little shy of €40.

ming down at the fastest pace we have ever recorded,” Fraser McKevitt, head of Kantar’s Retail and Consumer division, said.

Promotions were central to retailers’ strategy over the holiday season, McKevitt added. “Nearly one third of all spending in the month up to Christmas Eve was on items with some kind of offer, the highest level since December 2020, and £823 million (€951.9 million) more than 2022.”

A record £13.7 billion (€15.8 billion) passed through supermarket tills last month with an average household outlay of the highest-ever £477 (€551.8).

Biggest share of the Christmas supermarket shop went to Aldi and Lidl, with Lidl’s sales up 13.8 per cent up on the 12 weeks ending on December 24.

Aldi’s sales grew by 9.9 per cent, giving them a combined market share of 17 per cent.

EWN 15

Red card FC BARCELONA will sue Libero Football Finance AG for defaulting on its €40 million payment for a 10 per cent holding in the Barça Vision online media company.

This payment was fundamental to Barcelona’s plans to float its content subsidiary Barça Media on Nasdaq, the New York stock exchange, which was originally planned for the end of 2023.

Daily fine BRITISH telecoms company BT missed the December 31 deadline imposed by the government on security grounds to remove all equipment made by Chinese company Huawei from its core network.

The cut-off date had been extended on two occasions and missing it again could expose BT to a daily fine of £100,000 (€115,959) for every day over the deadline.

16 EWN 11 - 17 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT I FIND it difficult to contemplate why the Western general public and indeed the politicians, can’t, or simply refuse to admit, that Hamas are exploiting the beleaguered citizens of Palestine as victims solely to gain supportive propaganda for a conflict they have been involved in for years? Israel has not, as the disinformation instigators continue to spout, ‘declared war on Palestine’s innocent citizens’.

If Hamas were to discontinue their policies of hiding behind, or literally underneath the populace and repositioned themselves in more unpopulated areas, or indeed were prepared to sit around the negotiating table, the horrendous death toll that is befalling the inhabitants of the country would probably be terminated in days. But they won’t will they? The more Palestinians that are sacrificed, the more they can blame the atrocities on the Israelis, whose generals, rest assured, would be only too relieved to continue

or end the conflict without the horrific slaughter of so many civilians. The Hamas warren of tunnels and war rooms have been purposely constructed under hospitals, schools and religious establishments, primarily to avoid attack or if it should subsequently take place, be able to blame the enemy for the horror and killing of their innocent nationals. It is an obvious, cold blooded and utterly disgraceful method of misinformation.

Those partaking in the demonstrations all over the West in support of these bloodthirsty undertakings should also be ashamed and condemned for patronage of a group that began this latest conflict by slaughtering the young, elderly and babies of a peaceful Israeli community. To also witness the anti-sematic attitude and actions of a vast number of mid-East immigrants is also completely unacceptable.

It is important for these refugees and their kin to remember they were expected to leave their difficulties and hatred behind them, not revive them in countries who have offered them succour and the chance to live a peaceful and harmonious future with their

neighbours. When the Jewish people fled the ravages of Hitler and the holocaust, they entered Britain with jubilation and thanks. They then proceeded to blend into the British way of life.

They diversified into business and the astute among them employed many of the local populace, who were always treated with respect love and not a little humour. The areas they created were not ‘no go’ communities riddled with hate and religious fervour.

All manner of faiths and different beliefs were welcomed into their homes and schools of teaching.

If the majority of Mid-East immigrants don’t learn to live and respect the laws of the countries that have welcomed them, it can only end in one way. The Far Right will grow in stature and subsequently the great cities of the West will soon begin to resemble the ravages of Gaza and Beirut.

In the words of John Lennon. ‘Give peace a Chance’. If you don’t, the future of us all looks very bleak indeed.

Keep the Faith.

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

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THE Museo Picasso Malaga has seen a record number of visitors walk through its doors during the year 2023.

2023 saw the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death, and the museum marked this event by advertising a special exposition in honour of the Malaga born artist’s passing.

The record number of visitors was a massive 779,279 people that came to the museum, around 8 per cent more than in 2019, which was the best year to date in the 20 years that the attraction has been open.

It is also 21 per cent more visitors than the year prior, 2022.

The museum made their proud announcement on Friday December 29, and another piece of exciting news was to follow.

Credit: Shutterstock/1170980023

The future looks bleak

Record visitors for Picasso Museum in 2023

The museum entrance.

It was then publicised that artist Miguel Lopez-Remiro will be the new director of the Picasso Museum in 2024.

Miguel is originally from Pamplona and is aged 46 years old. He has previously worked as deputy curatorial director of the Guggenheim Bilbao and director of the University of Navarra Museum.

It looks like even more great things are in store for this cultural landmark in the south of Spain.

INTERVIEW

Tariq from Austria THE unique climate, culture and cuisine of the Costa del Sol has attracted travellers from all over Europe for decades, with many deciding to move here after experiencing its magic.

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At the end of 2023, there were out of this move, and living on 26,181 more inhabitants the Costa del Sol. He replied in the Malaga Province that his first goal was to than a year earlier. Of “learn Spanish, alongthese, 23,230 were side learning to live in born outside Spain. this relaxed lifestyle”.

One man deterHe also added that he mined to make 2024 is looking forward to the year he moves “living by the seasons, to the sunshine coast, buying fresh produce is Tariq Ali, an Austrian that will change as the native and successful busiseasons do.”

Wishing Tariq luck. nessman.

EWN then enquired as to Having only lived here for a couif he had noticed any distinct similariple of weeks, Euro Weekly News was cu- ties or differences between the Austrian rious to find out what Tariq thought of the and the Spanish people? “Both like good Spanish culture so far. “Well, the ‘mañana’ food, but Austrians are more structured, lifestyle is taking some getting used to. I not as relaxed, more regimented.” am a man that always arrives promptly, Speaking of good food, we had to find but I’m adjusting to Spanish timings,” he out Mr Ali’s favourite Spanish dish so far. laughed, adding that “I love the culture in He explained that: “I love to cook and eat general, the beautiful architecture, where paella, it’s a great dish, especially a seafood especially here in Andalucia, you can see one.” strong influences from the Moorish times, This interview was nothing but a pleasuamong many others.” re, and EWN wishes Tariq all the luck and We asked Tariq what he hoped to get love in his exciting new chapter.

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20 EWN 11 - 17 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

COMMUNITY

COMMENTS

FASHION is a strange creature and understandably with so many designers launching new collections every three months, it is incredibly difficult to come up with something new.

On the odd occasion that there is a radically new trend, no matter how bizarre it may be, fashion writers praise it and other designers jump on the band wagon.

The latest craze is for women to wear their pants either under sheer skirts so they can be seen or without any covering on their lower limbs.

In the early 1900s, £1 was referred to as a ‘knicker’ but these ones cost a hell of a lot more and our readers passed their generally negative verdict on the trend;

“

Yess - Boxers n vest.

Lois G Clark

Well considering my knickers go down to my knees and my top goes up to my ears….yes!

Emma Monks

Reminds me when we used to wear minis Hazel Moorman Bloomers !!

Lynda Woodin

Why should this fashion be limited to ladies? Men can wear the dresses or even see through pants so let’s see them parade round in small briefs which draw our attention to their ‘assets’. I’m sure they’d love dressing like that.

Sheree Ruiz

The Geordie lasses do cause they are tough.

Steve Mcgann

Heck noooo!

Not on your life!!!

Carol Hurst

Too draughty

Shirley Morris

No change there then. No class whatsoever!

Tricia Harrington

What in my baggy grey full size M&S knickers? I think not!!

Eivissa Lyn

I would not subject the public to that!

Heath Savage

To cold ..lol

Julie Hitchin

Is that a serious question?

Julia Margaret Clarke

Sophia Loren always said “Leave a lot to imagination “.Don’t think she would class the knickers as such.

Tim McMahon

Mapuchi Moda

By the length of some dresses, you see the wearer has already forgotten to put on their pants and you can see their underwear, glittery or not if you are not careful. But you’d also have to ask what’s the difference between a bikini and a see-through beach over and the see-through dresses.?

Sheree Ruiz

The Emperor’s New Clothes syndrome perhaps..?? !!

Sandra Harbut

Don’t think it will catch on but who knows some of the hot pants were very brief back in the day. I never liked hotpants just very short minis for me but other girls looked great. And remember Kylie’s little gold ones?

Leah Kerr

Sheree Ruiz Maybe the weather?

Susan Spelman

I’d scare the horses and frighten the children!!

Susan Lea

Thought many females already did this

Helen Burn

Leah Kerr Hotpants were proper dress not knickers. Trousers suits were stylish too.

Tim McMahon

Ridiculous

Jaqui Silcox

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.

21

PETS

euroweeklynews.com • 11 - 17 January 2024 SPONSORED BY

Luna loves her dog-sitter Sonya

Credit: Tha1uw4nt/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0

AMERICAN XL BULLY: A comprehensive ban introduced.

Strict new laws AS of December 31, strict regulations demand that XL Bully dogs be kept on a leash and muzzled when in public in the UK. This measure is a response to an alarming increase in dangerous incidents involving these dogs, including 23 fatal attacks in the last three years, with XL Bullies often involved.

The government has enacted a comprehensive ban on the breeding, selling, advertising, gifting, exchanging, abandoning, or letting XL Bully dogs stray.

Environment Secretary Steve Barclay said, “The Prime Minister pledged to take quick and decisive action to protect the public from devastating dog attacks with measures in place by the end of 2023.

“We have met that pledge - it is now a legal requi-

rement for XL Bully dogs to be muzzled and on a lead in public. It is also now illegal to breed, sell, advertise, gift, exchange, abandon or let XL Bully dogs stray.’”

Owners must now register their existing XL Bullies before February 1, with the failure to do so resulting in criminal charges and an unlimited fine.

Registration involves securing public liability insurance, microchipping the dog, and an application fee. By June 30, 2024, most dogs must be neutered, with an extended deadline to the end of 2024 for dogs under a year old as of 31 January 2024.

The government’s approach is staggered, aiming to manage the existing population of XL Bully dogs.

The upcoming deadline of February 1 marks the next stage in this process.

LUNA is a friendly young dog who does much better when her owners go away with dog-sitters caring for her in her own home.

Using HouseSitMatch. com her owners find free checked pet-sitters who travel to Luna’s home and care for her keeping all her routines consistent throughout their stay. And they don’t charge a penny for the pet-sitting. Read on to learn more.

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If you’re planning a trip in 2024 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time.

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Need a pet or housesitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either housesitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN – Reader exclusive offer.

To find a house pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com

Ferret companionship

A playful nature.

OWNING a ferret can be a delightful and unique experience, but it comes with its share of pros and cons. On the positive side, ferrets are known for their playful and affectionate nature.

They form strong bonds with their human companions, providing endless entertainment with their curious antics.

Ferrets are highly social animals, thriving on interaction with both their owners and fellow ferret friends. Their compact size makes them suitable for apartment living, and their low-maintenance grooming needs are a definite plus.

However, it’s essential to consider the cons. Ferrets demand a considerable amount of time and attention, requiring daily play and mental stimulation. Their mischievous behaviour may pose a challenge for households with delicate belongings.

Additionally, ferrets have a distinctive odour, and their diet requires careful consideration.

In summary, while ferrets make charming and interactive pets, potential owners must weigh the commitment required against the joy and companionship these playful creatures bring into their lives.

Cat allergies CONSIDERING the joy of adding a cat to your family but concerned about potential allergies? Fear not, as managing cat allergies is indeed possible with some practical tips. While cat dander is a common culprit, different breeds produce varying amounts of it.

Spend quality time with various cats before making a decision to gauge your sensitivity. Even if a friend or family member already has a feline friend, there are ways to navigate potential allergic reactions.

Take steps like restricting the cat’s access to certain rooms, especially your bedroom. Post-interaction, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your face or eyes.

Employing air purifiers can effectively combat cat allergens as well as other airborne irritants like dust mites.

Manage your allergies.

Consistent cat baths, while ensuring a clean and sleek pet, also help in reducing dander.

For added relief, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to identify suitable antihistamines.

These can address common symptoms such as a runny nose or puffy, watery eyes. By incorporating these measures, you can happily share your life with a cat while managing potential allergic reactions effectively.

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MOTORING II euroweeklynews.com

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack WE‘RE used to seeing badges on cars, and know the desirable ones, the ones we like, the ones we don’t like, but how much do you know about the history behind the badge? They all have a history and some are more interesting than others and Audi is an especially involving story.

August Horch took his first job in the industry courtesy of Karl Benz, who hired him to manage his factory in Mannheim. After three years of learning under Benz, Horch decided the time was right to strike out on his own and founded Horch & Cie Motorwagenwerke in 1899.

Initially making two-cylinder and later four-cylinder cars, Horch left the company in 1909 after a difference of opinion with the company’s board and founded a new car company in the same the year. He couldn’t use the Horch name so translated his name into Latin,

11 - 17 January 2024

EWN 23

Behind the badge - Audi

portant motorcycle makers of the pre first world war period and started building cars in 1928.

They were the first company to bring cars with front wheel drive.

Global recession meant

that demand began to plummet from 1929 and companies began to experience financial problems.

The recession led to union of the four brands mentioned above, which was initiated by the State Bank of Saxony, and Auto Union AG became the second largest car maker in Germany by number of vehicles produced.

The four former companies, now merged into Auto Union, maintained their own distinct areas of expertise. DKW made motorcycles and small cars, Wanderer produced mid-size cars while Audi concentrated on deluxe mid-size cars, and Horch was the luxury car arm of the enterprise.

When Auto Union was formed in 1930 the four rings were seen as a badge for the first time.

The name Auto Union was across the four rings and later the four rings symbolised the brand we know today as Audi.

knowledge of driving regulations, successfully passed theoretical exams, sometimes in as little as six minutes.

Remarkably, some took two or three exams within a single week.

The operation spanned several Spanish provinces, with

impersonators travelling to sit exams. Searches were conducted in three residences, two in Madrid and one in El Ferrol, A Coruña.

In Madrid, a driving school and two hospitality venues were raided, where document forgery occurred.

AUDI BADGE: The four rings symbolise the brand that we know today.

‘Audi’. Between 1912-14 Horch’s cars gained three consecutive victories at the International Austrian Alpine rally. One of the most challenging of the time.

Wanderer originated as a bicycle repair shop then

started building bicycles and then motorcycles.

Their first car in 1913 was known as Puppchen - English Moppet.

DKW was one of the largest motorcycle makers of the time. Danish founder

IS it possible for traffic radars to impose fines for vehicles without insurance? This pivotal question is at the heart of the latest developments in road safety enforcement in Spain.

It was recently reported that the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has introduced a significant upgrade to its radar system, extending its capabilities far beyond mere speed monitoring.

The DGT’s primary goal has always been to regulate speed and reduce traffic accidents across Spain’s extensive road network.

However, the evolution of radar technology has led to a broader scope for detecting various driving offences, including the verification of compulsory insurance and the Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV) status.

It’s crucial to note that only fixed radars possess the capability to execute these additional checks. They are equipped with real-time licence plate recognition systems, enabling the DGT, led by Pere Navarro, to ensure compliance with ITV, car insurance, and even to aid in car theft prevention.

The need for such measures is underscored by the DGT’s findings. The organisation’s data indicates a worrying trend. statistics show that a significant number of

Credit: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com

DGT radars report

Searching for best car insurance.

vehicles are operating without the mandatory insurance.

This not only poses a risk to the drivers themselves but also to other road users, escalating the potential for accidents and legal complications.

Recent studies by the DGT reveal a startling fact that more than 10 per cent of vehicles in Spain either lack insurance or have not passed their ITV. This equates to nearly two million cars, a figure the DGT aims to reduce drastically.

Driving without insurance can lead to vehicle impoundment and fines ranging from €601 to €3,005.

Meanwhile, failure to undergo the ITV can result in a €200 penalty, which increases to €500 if the vehicle continues to be driven after failing as inspection test.

Jorgen Skafte Rassmussen began experimenting with a steam powered automobile in 1916.

It wasn’t a success so he started working on twostroke engines. DKW became one of the most imSPANISH authorities have dismantled a group that falsified their identities and fraudulently obtained driving licences.

In a significant crackdown named Operation CARSHINOVEL, 18 individuals have been detained across various provinces in Spain, including Madrid, A Coruña, Sevilla, Pontevedra, and Murcia.

The criminal activities of the group involved impersonating candidates who lacked the necessary knowledge to pass the class ‘B’ driving test and the Certificate of Professional Competence (CAP).

In some cases, they also helped individuals regain lost driving points. The fraudsters altered identity documents, replacing photos to match their impersonators, who then sat the exams.

Potential clients were lured through social networks or personal contacts, initially paying between €400 to €500.

Once the exam was completed successfully clients then paid the total cost for the service which ranged between €1,500 and €2,000.

The impersonators who competently possessed

Licence scam uncovered

24 EWN 11 - 17 January 2024

euroweeklynews.com II SPORT

AT only 16 years old, Luke Littler has become an overnight sensation following his astonishing performance at the World Darts Championship final.

In recent weeks, Littler’s meteoric rise has captivated the darts world. His journey to the World Darts Championship final, which culminated in December at Alexandra Palace, has drawn comparisons to legends such as Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, making him a new icon in the sport.

Despite securing a runner-up prize of £200,000, Littler faces significant tax obligations. Investment firm Saxo estimates that he will owe £76,203 in taxes and

£7,330 in national insurance.

As a result, his net earnings will be approximately £116,467. Andrew Mangion from Saxo advised that such a large sum for a teenager is uncommon and professional financial guidance would be beneficial.

In an intriguing turn, Anthony Joshua’s SBX Studios has expressed interest in Littler’s story, proposing a deal worth over £1 million for film rights. This move follows the record-breaking viewership of the championship’s final on Sky Sports, emphasising Littler’s wide-reaching appeal.

Following his remarkable performance, Littler received an invitation to join this year’s Premier League tour. He accepted, and acknowledged the rarity of such opportunities.

Littler expressed on Sky Sports his awareness of the fleeting nature of sporting success and his eagerness to seize every chance presented: “Let’s do it, it might not

Credit: LukeTheNuke180/X

Dart prodigy’s tax woes Football legend passes

OVERNIGHT SENSATION: Luke Littler with signed shirt.

happen again,” he said.

Littler’s rise to fame has also caught the attention of celebrities like Rio Ferdinand and Gary Lineker as well as other popular YouTubers.

Some of whom have exten-

ded invitations to feature him on their podcasts.

Additionally, football stars like Luke Shaw and Jesse Lingard, and even David Beckham, have shown their support.

Catherine McGeer IN a devastating loss to the world of football, Franz Beckenbauer, affectionately known as ‘Der Kaiser’ (The Emperor), has passed away at the age of 77. The iconic figure, revered as one of the greatest footballers in German history, breathed his last after a valiant battle against a prolonged illness that had kept him away from the public eye in recent months.

Hailing from Munich, Beckenbauer revolutionised the role of the libero or the modern sweeper, reshaping it into an art form that defined his legacy. His genius on the field elevated both the national team and Bayern Munich to unprecedented heights.

Beckenbauer’s crowning glory came in 1974 when he captained the West German national team, affectionately known as ‘Die Mannschaft,’ to clinch the World Cup. However, his contributions extended far beyond that triumph. He later secured another World Cup victory in 1990, this time as the coach of a unified German team.

His stellar career also boasts the Euro Cup victory in 1972 and an astonishing three consecutive European Cup titles with Bayern Munich between 1974 and 1977.

Beyond his unparalleled success with both club and country, Beckenbauer embodied elegance on the pitch coupled with an innate winning mentality that mesmerised fans worldwide. His exceptional leadership skills made him one of the most admired footballers of his era and cemented his place among the sport’s all-time greats. His individual brilliance was recognised with two Ballon d’Or awards in 1972 and 1976.

The footballing world mourns the loss of a true legend whose impact transcended generations. Tributes poured in from fans, players, and football dignitaries.