Costa del Sol 1 – 7 February 2024 Issue 2013

Costa del Sol • Issue No. 2013 • 1 - 7 February 2024

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GRATIS

Photo: ChefsForChildren

CHEFS FOR CHILDREN

Eating healthy is fun.

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euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

1 - 7 February 2024

Taking off JET2.COM will offer almost 400,000 seats to Malaga next summer. Malaga-Costa del Sol will be the fourth airport in Spain, out of the 13 airports where the airline operates.

The airline Jet2.com aims to bring another 29,000 more passengers to Malaga for the summer of 2024. The total number of potential tourists arriving at the airport with Jet2.com will be almost 400,000, 8 per cent more than in summer 2023. Jet2.com has also announced the opening of a new route to Liverpool for summer 2025, “a unique opportunity for Malaga travellers to visit one of the most charming, cultural and fun cities in the UK,” the airline said in a statement.

In total Jet2.com will offer direct flights from Malaga to 10 of its UK bases and will reach a peak of 70 weekly flights in the summer, up from 63 in 2023. Malaga-Costa del Sol will be the fourth airport in Spain, out of the 13 served by Jet2.com, in terms of passenger volume for the airline.

TURISMO Costa del Sol has produced a Guide to Gastronomic Experiences with a Sabor a Malaga (Taste of Malaga).

Francisco Salado, president of the Malaga Provincial Council and Turismo Costa del Sol, shared the strategies that will guide tourism promotion throughout 2024, with a particular focus on the region’s gastronomic wealth.

Salado said that “Malaga’s gastronomy is consolidating its position as one of the main attractions for visitors to our province, generating a high level of satisfaction among tourists.

The gastronomic experiences on offer in Malaga combine local culinary talent,

Gastronomic guide

Photo: Malaga Provincial Council

Focusing on gastronomy.

inherited tradition and the diversity of the produce, thanks to the daily work of farmers, wine growers, fishermen and livestock farmers.”

The excellence of Malaga’s cuisine is reflected in the 10 restaurants that already hold Michelin stars and the variety of products with designation of origin, such as sultanas, Aloreña olives, Antequera oils and wines protected under the PDO Malaga, Sierras de Malaga and Pasas de Malaga.

“This guide represents a window into the authenticity and diversity of Malaga, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore our traditions and discover the essence of every corner of our province,” concluded Salado.

From Front page

Eating healthy is fun

Kevin Fraser Park RENOWNED chefs are raising funds for Autism Spain with the most charitable recipe of the Michelin stars.

More than 50 Michelin-starred Spanish chefs will take part on April 22 at the Anantara Villa Padierna hotel in an initiative to raise funds for the social group Autism Spain and to disseminate culinary recipes for children so that they eat healthily.

The sixth edition of the ‘ChefsForChildren’ campaign, which will be held under the slogan ‘Eating healthy is fun’, will be attended by professional chefs such as Ángel León, Elena Arzak, Martín Berasategui and Quique Dacosta, each with three Michelin stars; and Paco Roncero, Ramón Freixa and Martina Freixert, who have two Michelin stars each.

The chefs Mario Cachinero, Mauricio Giovanini and Diego del Río, who work in the restaurants Skina, with two Michelin stars, Messina, with one, and Boho, located in Marbella, will also take part.

The charity day, which will be supported by the Provincial Council through Sabor a Malaga - the brand that promotes local products - will begin with healthy cooking workshops with the chefs and 150 children from the Benahavis and Autismo España schools, and will culminate with a gala dinner featuring an exclusive tasting menu prepared by the Michelin-starred chefs who work in Malaga Province.

The proceeds will be donated to a state-wide confederation that represents more than 175 entities which provide specialised services to autistic people and their families.

Met Lord Cameron

FOLLOWING meetings in Madrid to discuss the border treaty the previous week, Gibraltar Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and Deputy Joseph Garcia were in the UK on January 29.

They met Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron and Minister for Europe Leo Docherty to discuss latest developments in relation to the UK-EU treaty as well as contingency plans for a nonnegotiated outcome (NNO).

This is the first time that Lord Cameron and Mr Picardo have met face to face since the former returned to the UK government as Foreign Secretary, although they met several times during his time as Prime Minister.

Perhaps these meetings in Madrid and London point towards an imminent settlement of the Treaty but currently, crossing the border often entails long queues either way and strict imposition of Schengen regulations by the Spanish authorities.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

THE Andalucian Regional Government will install three portable water purification plants in the western Costa del Sol where the drought is most serious, so that brackish ground water or water from boreholes can be made fit for human consumption. The sites will be in Fuengirola, Estepona and Marbella.

Robbery squad

NATIONAL Police have dismantled a criminal organisation led by armed ex-military personnel from former Eastern European countries to whom they attribute over 70 robberies in homes and businesses on the Costa del Sol since 2021, mainly in the luxury areas of Marbella.

Wrong rain

STATE Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts little rain for the start of February and a spokesperson said, “It is not just the amount, but the way in which it rains. If all the rain that fell in January had gone to the reservoirs, we would have had 30 per cent more and they would be half full.”

Dog beach

MANILVA Town Hall has approved the transformation of the beach at Las Arenas into a beach suitable for dog owners to exercise their pets. The beach will have 400 square metres for pets, and will be the first in the whole province to have car parking right next to it.

Spain cheapest

ACCORDING to the Cost of Living Overseas Index, compiled by website, Property Guides, Spain has emerged as the cheapest country to live in 2024, according to an index that looks at a wide range of living costs including food, petrol and energy bills.

Hamming it up Photo: Estepona Town Hall

Pure water

Brian Bamford THE mayor of Estepona, José María García Urbano, and the businessman José María Téllez ‘Popi’ have announced the dates for the ninth World Ham Competition ‘Popi Ciudad de Estepona’, which will be held from August 8 to 15 in the town.

Estepona will once again become the world capital of the Iberian product with the celebration of this event, which has been declared an ‘Event of Tourist Interest in Andalucia’ and which brings together almost half a million people every year in the different activities pro-

World ham event.

Q for Quality CASARES Town Hall renewed its ‘Q’ award for yet another year at the ‘Noche Q Gala’ award ceremony.

This Gala of the Institute for Spanish Tourism Quality (ICTE) aims to recognise tourism companies and organisations that are committed to Certified Quality and Sustainability.

During the event, diplomas of recognition were awarded to those tourism organisations that have certified or renewed the ‘Q’ for Quality mark in 2023. This is the case of the Casares Town Hall, which has renewed the distinction with its commitment to promoting quality Spanish tourism.

Casares Town Hall also received the renewal of its Environmental Certification for its commitment to sustainability in the management of the town’s beaches.

Photo: Casares Town Hall

NIBS EXTRA

1 - 7 February 2024

Awarded for another year.

The certification is a badge that recognises the commitment to the preservation of the environment over the years. From responsible waste management to the promotion of sustainable practices, an effort has been made to minimise environmental impact.

With this renewal, Casares strengthens its position as an environmentally friendly tourist destination.

Over €1,000 raised AT La Cala de Mijas Lions Charity Event, held at Legends Show Bar in La Cala de Mijas, 100 people were treated to a spectacular evening of entertainment.

They were entertained by The Soul Brothers, Frankie B and James Ray and the energetic trio Boogie Wonderland.

During the intervals Lions members Sandie Tavendale and Karen Blair sold raffle tickets for a splendid array of prizes. An auction also took place of items kindly donated by local businesses, with auctioneer Paul, owner of Legends, getting the bids rolling in.

At the end of the evening, Lions President Brenda Meredith announced that €1,375 had been raised and that this money will be used by the Lions to further help those in need throughout the area.

For further information about the Lions or their future events visit their website at lacalalions.org or visit their Charity Shop in Calle Torremolinos in La Cala de Mijas, tel: 637 185 533.

More connections ANDALUCIA aims to improve its connections with 35 destinations around the world.

The Regional Government is drawing up a connectivity strategy to increase the number of seats on offer at Andalucian airports.

To increase the number of direct air connections or with stopovers of less than three hours with international destinations: this is the objective that the Junta de Andalucía has set itself for 2025.

This was announced by the Regional Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Arturo Bernal, who explained that this challenge has been set for 35 non-European interna-

grammed.

During the event, the best national companies related to the production of ham and its derivatives will be present. In addition, free concerts will be held every night to liven up the event.

The mayor said he values the success that, year after year, this event achieves, “which has become one of the most important events in the country dedicated to ham.”

José María Téllez ‘Popi’, looked forward to, “the spectacle of seeing the entire seafront promenade of Estepona full of ham.”

tional destinations that can help to attract a greater flow of tourists to Andalucia from non-traditional markets, such as North America, the East, Asia, Asia-Pacific.

The government of Andalucia also wants to improve connectivity with major air hubs such as Istanbul, London, Paris and Amsterdam and flights to countries in Eastern Europe and the Nordic territories.

Internationally, new destinations such as Miami, Mexico, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Toronto, Los Angeles, Bogota, Beijing and Hong Kong are being targeted, while the aim is to consolidate and increase existing connections New York, Riyadh and Toronto.

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YOUR EWN HAS

145 STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

More digital nomads A STUDY has revealed how Marbella and the surrounding area is becoming the epicentre for remote professionals seeking luxury and quality of life.

Digital nomads, new breed of worker, has found Marbella and the Costa del Sol to be an ideal destination. This is according to the latest report by real estate agency, Pure Living Properties, entitled ‘Digital Nomads in Marbella and the Costa del Sol’.

Pure Living Properties has recorded a 40 per cent increase in demand for properties in Marbella from remote workers or digital nomads. This phenomenon is concentrated in the so-called Golden Triangle (Marbella, Estepona and Benahavís), which stands out for climate, strategic location and quality of life.

The Euro Weekly News publishes more content both online at euroweeklynews.com and in its papers than any other English news publication in SPAIN. Even better, our news online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.

FOR MORE NEWS STORIES euroweeklynews.com

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euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

1 - 7 February 2024

Mind your Spanglish

VIEWPOINT BILL ANDERSON SOMETHING a bit lighter this week, but nevertheless important. I have worked with thousands of International residents over the years, and speaking Spanish is a topic that comes up time and again.

I have had some humorous moments in my learning Spanish journey. In my early days here, a Spanish teacher arrived at the house to do a class for my now late wife, and after courteous greeting she announced that she was a bit ‘constipada’. I wondered why she was telling me about her toilet habits, not something one expects when asking ‘¿Como estas?’

I reverted to my analogue dictionary and discovered that it meant ‘congested’, ie with a head cold. I was relieved.

Sitting one day at a friend’s restaurant

I was amused when a group of young Norwegian tourists began to wish a friend a Happy Birthday, in Spanish. But they hadn’t grasped the effect of the little eyebrow over the ‘ñ’ and were wishing their friend a happy anus. There was raucous laughter when we filled them in.

A recurring theme from many of my British acquaintances is how difficult it is to learn a language when you are getting on in years. I get it. And let’s be honest, when you live in many coastal areas, people can get by day to day without a decent level of Spanish. When my now wife immigrated with her family to Australia in the 1970s, it was a different story. Immigrants were scolded for speaking their native tongue in public places. I am not

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saying I would like to see that happening in Spain in 2024, but I do get frustrated when I hear people complaining that they have gone to the Guardia Civil ‘and they didn’t speak English’, or to the hospital and an appointment was all but wasted because they couldn’t communicate.

If no translator is available, why on earth don’t they take someone with them to help?

In many ways, Spain has done its best to accommodate foreign immigrants, but it’s not Spain’s responsibility to make sure we are understood. In fairness, I know a lot of older people who faithfully attend their Spanish classes and still say they struggle to have a conversation with a Spaniard. Learning Spanish doesn’t ha-

ppen by attending a class once a week.

It happens by immersing yourself in the Spanish life and culture, by using every opportunity you have to use Spanish, by getting into situations where you either have to remain silent or use the language to be part of the conversation. Of course, this is not as comfortable as being surrounded by our fellow native English speakers, but if we don’t escape our comfort zone, it will never happen.

Spaniards don’t care if we get it wrong, but they do get annoyed when we don’t try. I have had many conversations with Spaniards who confirm this. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, or too shy to show what you have learned. Get out there and just do it.

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 “The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry.”

This French proverb suggests that while dogs and cats have their own admirable qualities, cats possess a certain elusive charm and elegance that is akin to poetry.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

Lego fun LOOKING for children’s activities? Bloquería, Estepona’s premier play destination offers an unforgettable adventure with your little ones.

Let their creativity soar as they explore their interactive LEGO exhibits, engage in hands-on STEM activities, and build amazing creations.

Children three years old and above can stay without parents, giving you some well-deserved free time while they enjoy a safe and stimulating environment. Once a month, they host a special evening event called ‘Noche de Bloques’, where kids have a blast building with LEGO bricks and enjoying various games and activities. Plus, they provide pizza and juice.

The next date is Friday February 2 and if you want to try a taster, they are turning into every kid’s dream playground for Carnival on Sunday February 11 from 5pm to 7.30pm.

It’s a Carnival Party packed with LEGO fun, face painting, and pizza. Don’t miss it, call 634 415 823 or visit: www. bloqueria.com.

1 - 7 February 2024

Retro Malaga - a classic OVER the last weekend of January, from 26 to 28, the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Malaga hosted the 11th edition of Retro Malaga, and Euro Weekly News was there to experience it.

Retro Malaga has the reputation of being the most outstanding Classic, Vintage and Collection Vehicle Show in the south of Spain, and as soon as EWN stepped through the entrance doors, it was clear this was not your ordinary car show.

A total of 11,000 m² was filled with classic cars of every colour, shining and gleaming light in all directions.

Fans and aficionados excitedly captured photos of the stunning array of retro vehicles.

EWN spoke to Guilano Diaz, who was recording vi-

Photo: Shutterstock / Thor Jorgen Udvang

Classic and vintage on show.

deos of the exhibitions. “We love classic cars, and when

we heard about this we immediately bought tickets.

We will definitely be back again next year,” he declared.

Specialists were on hand close to each car, and explained to the eager enthusiasts the history, uses, and unique qualities of each one. EWN’s favourite choice had to be the adorable baby pink Seat, which came with a crystal embellished gear stick and fabulous eyelashes on the headlights.

Also present were the classic car society, Clasicos y joyas de Sevilla. EWN met the president of the society, Jose Miguel, who told us that the society had acquired many new members over the weekend.

“We come every year but this year is the best so far I think,” he said.

Visitors left the event clearly happy with the experience, full of new information, retro toys and new projects to think about.

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Costa del Golf Photo: Shutterstock / Thor Jorgen Udvang

Trying to improve irrigation of the courses.

THE Association of Municipalities of the Western Costa del Sol and the Royal Andalucian Golf Federation are working together to improve the irrigation of golf courses.

The Association of Municipalities of the Western Costa del Sol has held various meetings with agents from the golf sector, both public and private, to define the actions to be carried out to promote golf tourism, the irrigation of its courses with reclaimed water and the commitment to care for the environment, among other issues.

President of the association, Manuela Cardeña said, “the meeting with the Royal Andalucian Golf Federation is an important step in the study of investments to improve the quality and quantity of reclaimed water that the courses receive, as it is a sustainable tool and, given the water shortage situation we are suffering, it helps us to alleviate its consequences.”

Cardeña went on to say, “golf is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region and plays a major role in deseasonalisation, as well as in the generation of wealth and employment, contributing income of €1,400 million and providing 17,700 jobs on the Costa del Sol.”

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euroweeklynews.com II MARBELLA NEWS

Mountain race Michael Carrington CxM SIERRA BLANCA, in its ninth edition scheduled for 2024, represents more than just a mountain race.

Organised by the Club Deportivo Ultra Trail Sierra Blanca (CDUTSB), this competition is distinguished by its commitment to the preservation of the environment and to charity.

The race will take place on Saturday February 10, starting from the Plaza Monseñor Rodrigo Bocanegra in Marbella and passing through the municipalities of Ojen and Monda. With three different routes, the race is designed to appeal to a wide range of runners, from juniors and beginners to experienced athletes.

The event also features a CxM-Inclusive mode for runners with disabilities, demonstrating a commitment to inclusion and

Photo: CDUTSB

MOUNTAIN RACE: Will pass through Ojen and Monda.

accessibility in sport. In addition, the virtual race allows runners and hikers from all over the world to join the event, with distances of 12, 28 or 42 km, and the money raised goes to MPS España and the conservation of Sierra Blanca.

The organisers of the CxM Sierra Blanca focus on minimising the environmental impact of the event, emphasising the importance of conserving

natural environments and promoting sustainable practices.

CDUTSB does not just organise sporting events; it nurtures community bonds, preserves lasting legacies and advocates for a more inclusive and sustainable sporting future.

They warmly invite everyone to join their upcoming activities and events, embodying the spirit of unity, resilience and ecological responsibility.

Public or private?

PERHAPS nothing in Spain is more associated with luxury than a little corner of Marbella called Puerto Banus. José Banús and Noldi Schreck inaugurated Puerto Banús in May 1970 with a party attended by Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly, Julio Iglesias, Roman Polanski and Hugh Hefner, among other celebrities.

The owner of the port concession, Puerto José Banús, SA, in the hands of the Vidiella family since

the death of José Banús in 1984, is seeking to continue operating it for another 25 years.

However, there is a problem: judgements have been made saying that the adjacent beaches, which Puerto Banús treats as its own, include public land outside the concession.

This would affect at least 14,000 square metres of lucrative beach bars, kiosks and sunbeds that pay a vital income for the concessionaire’s business.

The Ports Agency has, for the moment, put the brakes on extending the concession. Puerto Banus receives some 700,000 visitors a year, and its business depends to a large extent on where the port border is placed.

Complaints from environmentalists and proceedings by the courts have little effect on the beaches.

But, to the west of Marbella, Puerto Banus faces the uncertainty of not knowing where its boundary lies.

Marbella on Movistar FOR those who have TV bundled into their Movistar phone package (and there are quite a few who don’t even know it’s included), the streaming platform Movistar Plus has just launched the teaser for its new series ‘Marbella’, starring Hugo Silva.

With locations in Marbella, Cadiz and Gran Canaria and based on an investigative report published in April 2021 in the newspaper ‘El País’, it is a new drama that focuses on the criminal gangs that operate on the Costa del Sol. The main character is

César (Hugo Silva), a successful lawyer who lives in Marbella, a city he calls the “UN of organised crime”. There will be six episodes that Movistar Plus+ will premiere in April, as announced in the preview that has just been made public with the first images of the series.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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WHEN Clive Marks was diagnosed with prostate cancer he became a man with a mission. He set up his project ‘Don’t be a man, get your prostate checked’.

Clive adds a frightening figure that one man dies of prostate cancer every 45 minutes.

He launched his project last year with a mini triathlon to raise funds for vouchers for free Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) tests.

“Men are terrible at looking after their health,” said Clive. “We don’t go unless we are really ill or are

PHOTOCREDIT: CLIVE MARKS

Every 45 minutes ON A MISSION: The mini triathlon will raise funds.

forced to go by our better half. Women go for regular screening, and men over 40 should be regularly screened.” The second ‘Don’t Be A Man Event Sprint Tria-

FIFTY tonnes of Asian seaweed has been removed from Benalmadena beaches in just two weeks. The work consisted of removing the algae using specialised machinery and then sweeping the sand of the beach.

The Benalmadena Municipal Beach Department has carried out work in recent weeks on different urban beaches which has allowed the removal of approximately 50 tonnes of Asian

thlon - Ray Murphy Memorial Event’ will take place on March 23 raising awareness of prostate cancer and raising funds for free PSA tests (it’s just a blood test).

A lot of weed

seaweed (Rugulopteryx okamurae). The works have concentrated on the area of Santa Ana and Las Gaviotas and Playa Bonita.

The councillor for Beaches and Tourism, Presi Aguilera, spoke of the importance of this work, “to keep one of our main tourist attractions for the enjoyment of locals and visitors.”

Twenty-three participants, men and women from 15 years to 62 years are taking up the challenge.

Their first event, held in 2023 raised around €8,000 which providing free tests for hundreds of men via the vouchers. The Lion’s Club of La Cala is supporting the event and free test vouchers are available from their shops in La Cala.

Please support the event and sponsor any of the 23 people taking part Clive reiterates his message, ‘Don’t be a man, get checked’.

One of the problems that most affect the coastline of the entire Costa del Sol, the Asian algae, an invasive species that wreaks havoc on the image of the coast and that requires a huge commitment from councils to combat it.

The councillor said the people of Benalmadena should know the impact of this species in the coastal environment and how the council is addressing it, ”365 days a year to maintain our beaches.”

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Walking in the air Kevin Fraser Park CAMINITO DEL REY opens on Thursday February 1 for the sale of tickets for the period from April to September 2024. Tickets can be purchased at caminitodelrey.info for €10 for general admission and €18 for guided tours.

After improvement work in 2023, El Caminito is the first path in Spain and one of the first in Europe to be accredited as a cardio-safe area, as it has seven defibrillators along its route and staff trained in their use and first aid. In addition, a weather station will soon be installed to supply data to the State Meteorological Agency. In this way, the area’s weather forecast will be more accurate for visitors.

El Caminito del Rey has a visitor reception centre located in the municipality of Ardales, which has a car park with capacity for 240 vehicles. Visitors can park for €2 per day, and can also book when purchasing tickets on the website.

One of the best known parts of the Caminito is the hanging footbridge 105 metres above the ground.

The reconstruction of the Caminito del Rey, which reopened to the public at the end of March 2015, transformed it from one of the most dangerous paths in the world into a completely safe route.

During peak times, the Caminito gets booked up quickly so now is the chance to get your tickets for 2024. Book your tickets here https://www.cami nitodelrey.info/en/tickets/buy

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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Photo: Pexels CC / RUN 4 FFWPU

Marbella Ironman

IRONMAN TRIATHLON: Attracts more than 6,000 athletes from all over the world.

Kevin Fraser Park MARBELLA has become the first Spanish city to host the Ironman 70.3 Triathlon World Championship which will take place in 2025.

The event, which was announced at Fitur, will last two days and attract more than 6,000 athletes from all over the world.

Marbella will be the fourth European city and the first Spanish city to host this world event. The Secretary General for Sport of the Junta de Andalucia, José María Arrabal, expressed his satisfaction, “for choosing Marbella for this important international competition. We are convinced of the possibilities that our land has for holding major sporting events, and that is our commitment, to bring to Andalucia the best sporting events

that also generate wealth, tourism and promotion of sport at the same time.

“Marbella joins an exclusive group of cities that have demonstrated a long history of successfully hosting Ironman events, and offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable and exciting experience for both athletes and fans,” said Diana Bertsch, representing The Ironman Group.

“Marbella has consistently proven that it can deliver a racing experience with a venue worthy of hosting a World Championship.

Full of culture and a highly reputable holiday destination, the city is very accessible internationally via Malaga airport and will undoubtedly be an incredible trip for any athlete, their family and friends.”

REAL CLUB DE GOLF Las Brisas has been voted as the best course during the last season of the Ladies European Tour (LET).

The Director of Operations of the Ladies European Tour, Davide Lantos, announced the award at a ceremony held in London.

The result of the vote, in which the LET players participated, resulted in two courses tied for first place: Las Brisas and DLF Golf and Country Club in India.

The Real Club de Golf Las Brisas was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr in 1968, and later updated by Kyle Phillips in 2015. The landscaping of this course, with exotic species from Africa, Asia and America, provided the perfect backdrop for the tournament that closed the 2023 season, the Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de España held last November.

The general manager of Real Club de Golf Las Brisas, Paul Muñoz, spoke of the hard work and dedication of the team during the week of the championship: “This award is a reflection

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Golf award of the joint effort of the whole team at Real Club de Golf Las Brisas, from the

Board of Directors through to each and every one of the employees,” he said.

Summer cuts

THE president of the Junta de Andalucia, Juanma Moreno, has announced that on January 29 the fourth drought decree will be approved with €200 million of aid in the face of the emergency situation and ‘extreme seriousness’, for which he called on the 8.5 million inhabitants to rationalise their use of water as much as possible.

Moreno, who chaired the third meeting of the committee of experts against the drought, explained that the new decree will include €50 million in aid for the agri-food sector and will go to help local councils, especially those whose municipalities already have supply problems.

This announcement was made by Moreno during his speech at the meeting of the committee of experts to monitor the drought, held at the San Telmo Palace in Sevilla. The president called on citizens, the private sector and institutions to use water responsibly: “We are in an extreme situation and it is not a question of raising alarm, but of being realistic,” he said.

“We all have to make an enormous effort to contain our water consumption,” added Moreno, pointing out that if it does not rain intensely during the remainder of the winter and in the spring, “at least 30 days of continuous rain” are needed, the summer will begin with water restrictions in capitals such as Sevilla, Cordoba and Malaga.

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

Starlite stays Kevin Fraser Park THE founder of the Starlite festival, Sandra García-Sanjuán, has responded to comments generated by her group’s commitment to Estepona and has made it clear that the event is not leaving Marbella.

After learning of the Starlite group’s intention to create a City of Music in Estepona, with a large auditorium, hotel, sets and an investment of almost €300 million, rumours had spread about a possible departure from Marbella.

Sandra García-Sanjuán was clear: “We are not leaving, we will always be in Marbella, it is part of our DNA,” she said. She wanted to clarify this, “because a lot of people have called me,” asking her if they were leaving Marbella.

Regarding the project in THE municipality of Estepona has nearly 5 per cent more inhabitants than just a year ago, according to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE).

Of the 3,370 new citizens, it is striking that 2,737 are of foreign nationality. In other words, foreigners account for 81 per cent of the increase in population.

At the moment, the province of Malaga has a total of 314,360 inhabitants who are not of Spanish nationality, of which 20,987 live in Estepona.

The Costa del Sol town has become the first in Andalucia and the second in the country in terms of ‘demographic dynamism’. Only the Alicante municipality of Torrevieja, which grew by nearly 7 per cent in the space of 12 months, exceeds the increase in population of the municipality of Estepona.

In addition to Estepona, Marbella, with a similar percentage and Benalmadena, with 3.8

Photo: Estepona Town Hall

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STARLITE FESTIVAL: The event is staying in Marbella.

Estepona, “It is an expansion, a growth,” she explained. Starlite has been expanding over the last few years and last Christmas celebrated its first edition in Madrid and has also organised concerts in Mexico.

“It is a project that was born in Marbella and that would not have been possible without the visibi-

lity of this city,” the head of the festival explained.

Therefore, the continuity of the event in the Cantera de Nagüeles is not in doubt despite the heavy investment planned in Estepona.

The festival was born in Marbella in 2012 and this year will celebrate its 13th edition from June 14 to August 31.

3,000 foreigners per cent, are in the national top five. At the moment, the municipality of Estepona already

has 77,068 inhabitants and is the sixth most populated municipality in the province.

Women’s Day Kevin Fraser Park COSTA WOMEN, the vibrant community for women in Spain, has announced its 11th International Women’s Day celebrations, set to take place on March 7 and 8.

There will be two events again this year; business networking at 6pm at Food Room in Guadalmina Baja and the full day Conference from 9.30am at Andalucia Lab. These live and in-person events invite Women in Business to come together under the inspiring theme of ‘Make it Happen by Being You’. The annual theme encourages attendees to take charge of their lives and businesses by embracing their authenticity. The conference promises a day filled with inspirational stories, valuable tips, knowledge sharing, and practical tools to empower women in their professional and personal journeys.

The events provide a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, forge new business connections, and celebrate their individual and collective successes. Whether your business journey has been a smooth sail or a challenging climb, these events celebrate the unique paths each woman has taken to make it happen.

For more information visit https://costawomen.com/ conference.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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EWN 11

THREE RACES: Will take place in Fuengirola.

lio Rodríguez.

The first race will be along the Paseo Marítimo, in the stretch between Torreblanca and Carvajal; the second race will start from the Elola sports complex, and will run along the Paseo de Los Murales, in El Boquetillo. “A space that has seen a revolution in recent months and we want it to be a showca-

se for all the people who come to Fuengirola on Sundays to run,” said the councillor.

Finally, the third race will be held in the park of La Loma. “We have yet to finalise some details of this last course but it will be a simple race, which will allow runners to get to know this great green lung of Fuengirola,” concluded Rodríguez.

Kevin Fraser Park FOLLOWING much debate about the explosion of unlicensed and unregulated holiday rental accommodation, particularly on the Costa del Sol, on January 29 the Junta de Andalucia approved the new decree on tourist accommodation which will allow local councils to establish limitations in order to curb the proliferation of this type of accommodation in areas where it impacts on the local economy and social welfare.

Local real estate agent Martin Treasure who is a member of the Advisory Board of the Association of International Property Professionals said, “The Junta have taken a much tougher regulatory stance to registration and oversight of short term rentals.

That’s no bad thing as nobody wants visitors to spend thousands on a sub-optimal experience.”

This new decree gives local councils a legal framework to regulate holiday rentals without the fear that the restrictive measures they apply may be overturned by a court. Minister of Tourism, Arturo Bernal, at the press conference following the decision, said the decree, “makes it clear that it is the local councils who can establish the appropriate restrictions on this type of activity.”

With regard to what the local councils

Photo: Casares Town Hall

THE Urban Running Circuit 2024 of Fuengirola includes three races that will take place in the Paseo Marítimo, the Paseo de los Murales and the park of La Loma. The events will take place on Sunday February 25 (from 200 metres to three kilometres), Sunday March 10 (from 200 metres to four kilometres) and Sunday April 14 (from 200 metres to five kilometres), respectively, in different categories and registrations can already be made at dorsalchip.es.

“We are starting the year by presenting one of the activities that we are most excited to publicise from the Sports Department, the Urban Running Circuit, which is now in its eighth edition.

It means a lot to see how year after year people become more loyal, and the event has runners from many places,” said councillor for Sports, Ju-

Photo: Fuengirola Town Hall

Urban running Holiday rental law HOLIDAY RENTALS: Can now be limited.

will be able to do to stop or regulate this activity, the Minister of Tourism has not gone into detail leaving, the parameters very wide and saying that councils will be able to use urban planning: “prohibitions, limitations, conditions of location or zoning for reasons of general interest.”

The Junta reported that in the Andalucian Tourism Register there are 80,000 properties currently legally licensed for tourist purposes, although it also said that this number is “increasing daily”.

The Euro Weekly News contacted some local authorities for their reaction to the new announcement, but did not receive any replies.

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THE Junta de Andalucia has noted the intention to build a venue for the Starlite festival in Estepona and declared the project to be a business investment of strategic interest for Andalucia. The ‘Starlite Music World’ in Estepona will have a planned investment of €286 million and will create 450 jobs.

‘Starlite Music World’ will bring together various cultural, hotel, gastronomic and educational activities. The project, located in the La Panera area of Estepona which

Oceanika Accessible tourism NEW PROJECT: Will be a large timber construction.

ce of Malaga. The complex, christened ‘Oceanika’, has a projected surface area of more than 15,000 sqms and will offer 180 apartments.

This project develops a new concept of coliving and commercial area. As Luis Acacio explained, this building will be constructed in modules that rotate and shift to allow each apartment to have terraces with optimal solar and visual

Strategic interest is close to Selwo Zoo and La Resina Golf Club, foresees the construction of ‘A City of music’ and ‘Audiovisual City’.

The first will have an 11 hectare area and the creation of a boulevard with a lake, a central square, restaurants, an artists’ area and an auditorium for large musical shows with a capacity for 15,000 people.

It also envisages a hotel with

orientation. In addition, each terrace opens on a corner, improving ventilation and, of course, the hours of natural light.

Oceanika will use environmentally friendly construction materials: wood from certified sustainably managed forests will be used from the early stages.

It will be the largest timber construction by volume in Spain. a capacity for 200 rooms and a conference centre, among others.

‘The Audiovisual City’ will occupy almost six hectares and will consist of several recording studios and sets of between 1,500 and 3,000 square metres, equipment warehouses and internal service areas.

Since 2019, a total of 19 projects have been declared of Strategic Interest in Andalucia, which will involve an expected investment of €3,848 million and an estimated total creation of more than 20,000 jobs.

Brian Bamford

FUENGIROLA has established itself as an inclusive destination with the creation of a Tourist Accessibility Guide.

“The commitment to accessibility that we have been practising for years, allows everyone, without exception, to enjoy the best experience during their holidays. We strive every day so that both the people of Fuengirola and the many people who visit us every year can lead a full life in our public spaces, eliminating architectural barriers and building new access where necessary,” said the mayor, Ana Mula.

Thus, the study-diagnosis carried out by the town hall and the company Ilunion, specialised in matters related to this subject, has analysed the accessibility conditions of the local accommodation offer. In this respect, it has pointed out recommendations for improvement of its facilities and services, in the event that they are necessary.

The general manager of Ilunion Accessibility, Patricia Otero, said that the aim of the document is to contribute to the process of continuous improvement of accessibility in the accommodation and tourist resources of Fuengirola.

Photo: Shutterstock / riopatuca

Photo: Torremolinos Town Hall

Kevin Fraser Park A NEW project in the old Los Alamos hotel will put Torremolinos firmly on the map for digital nomads.

An urban regeneration project will replace the existing uninhabited building with a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient hotel with connectivity in all spaces, complemented by a commercial area. The Oceanika complex was presented at Fitur by the mayor, Margarita del Cid, and the deputy general manager of Nuovit Corporate, Luis Acacio Ortega.

The project has a target audience of digital nomads.

“Without a doubt our city has the vocation to attract talent; professionals, who, I am convinced, once they live in Torremolinos, will not only want to live in it, but to live it,” said the mayor.

Nuovit Homes is launching this, its first building for coliving, which will become the largest in the provin-

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

Fuengirola Town Hall.

The hotels with the best conditions to welcome people with reduced mobility will be included in the ‘Fuengirola Tourist Accessibility Guide’, which will be published in February.

The establishments are: Higuerón Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton, hotel Ilunion Fuengirola,

hotel Las Palmeras, hotel Leonardo, hotel Mainare Playa, IPV Palace & Spa, hotel Boutique, flats Mediterráneo Real, flats Castillo, flats Medea and hostal Los Corchos.

Charity donations EVERY Year the Foreign Residents Association of Estepona (AREME) arranges to donate monies obtained through fundraising activities to a number of local charities.

On Thursday January 25, members of the AREME Committee arranged with Estepona mayor José María García to present cheques in the sum of €500 to three different charities, Mirada Libre, Lucha Estepona and Entre Gatos Group.

Events such as the annual Hog Roast, Easter Egg and Mince Pie get togethers as well as fortnightly quiz nights generated the money which was given to the charities.

Annual membership of this busy association which works to promote the best interests of foreign residents costs just €5 per person per year.

LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

WWF warning Photo: Wikimedia CC / Basotxerri

David Hart THE drought is worsening in Andalucia and some of the measures which have been introduced by the Junta de Andalucia have been criticised by the WWF (The World Wide Fund for Nature) as the organisation says the actions are a false solution to the drought, they maintain a high demand for water to feed the irrigation ‘bubble’ and do not put an end to water theft.

“In recent years we have been living with extraordinary decrees to maintain the same model of overexploitation of water with the excuse that there is a lack of rainfall.

“The reality is that the structural problems of water shortages in Andalucia

1 - 7 February 2024

DROUGHT: Water shortages have been highlighted.

must first be tackled by reducing excessive consumption, eliminating water theft and adapting to the uncertainty of climate change, and not always asking for more water for golf

WORK on the third phase of the eastern side of San Pedro Alcantara remodelling project has begun and will last for four months during which time alternative traffic routes will be provided.

Councillor of San Pedro Alcantara, Javier García said that, “this is a major project which will involve the development of almost 60,000 square

courses or industrial and intensive crops,” explained Rafael Seiz, an expert in WWF Spain’s water programme.

The reservoirs of Andalucia face the beginning of

San Pedro improves metres of land which will add 23,000 square metres of roads, more than 8,000 square metres of green areas and 333 parking spaces, and which

2024 at around 20 per cent of their capacity, without the latest rains having been able to alleviate the situation appreciably. However, on average, more than 85 per cent of the water used has been allocated to irrigation, consuming an enormous amount of resources and reducing the ability to react to the shortage.

“We cannot wait for the rains to solve our problems of overexploitation of water, nor can we continue to rely on urgent measures to solve a structural problem in our water management and use,” said Rafael Seiz.

will allow for the construction of 350 homes.”

In an area well known for its congested traffic, the councillor also said that, “this entrance to San Pedro will be significantly improved with two lanes in each direction separated by a central median and an access roundabout that will help traffic flow.”

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New brand image MARBELLA was present at Fitur in Madrid, the most important tourism fair of the year which started on January 24.

The city was going to Madrid with a renewed brand image after a historic year for the tourism sector.

The mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, said that the aim of the town hall was to, “continue to increase the number of visitors and consolidate the break in seasonality in the municipality.”

She also said that the city council would debut at the event a campaign, “based on the sensations of the attractions and excellence of Marbella”, which consisted of a main video, a specific promotional campaign for San Pedro Alcantara and a dozen thematic ‘shorts’ dedicated exclusively to tourism segments which the city is spearheading.

The mayor, in the presentation that took place in the new premises of the San Pedro Alcantara Tourist Office, added that the visual proposal, “reveals the tourist diversity of the city through the eyes of its visitors, from the Central European tourist who walks through the Old Town to the golf enthusiast who takes advantage of his stay in Marbella to practise his favourite sport, without forgetting the digital nomad or the visitor who comes to our city to enjoy its natural attractions.”

She also indicated that the new tourist logo included a distinctive ‘M’ “that starts from the mountain peaks of Sierra Blanca and ends in the waves of the Mediterranean Sea.”

euroweeklynews.com II LOCAL NEWS

‘Shout my name’ Photo: Malaga Provincial Council

14 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

NEW CAMPAIGN: Invites young tourists to discover new experiences.

THE Costa del Sol has launched a new promotional campaign, ‘Grita mi nombre’ (Shout my name) which invites younger tourists to discover and live new experiences and emotions in the province with the aim of strengthening the tourist leadership of the destination.

This was announced by the president of the Diputación de Malaga and Costa del Sol Tourism, Francisco Salado, who explained that the new campaign - which was presented to the sector on Wednesday January 24 in Madrid,

at the Florida Park del Retiro exhibition centre - aims to consolidate and extend the Costa del Sol’s leadership also among younger generations.

“It is an innovative and daring campaign that transmits youth, joy, joie de vivre and a deep respect for the Costa del Sol, its history, its authenticity and its people. It is a step forward in the promotional strategy of the Costa del Sol, but, obviously, it appeals to the rest of the public, because, after all, youth is a state of mind.”

Mateo García, founder and

CEO of travel agency Narita, said: “The promotional video is a roadtrip through the Costa del Sol that shows us the vitality of a destination where everything is within our reach, living an eternal youth, in extraordinary places where we would like to return again and again.” And he added: “The campaign is built on honesty, self-esteem and the connection with the roots that only a destination such as the province of Malaga can offer.” www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6qIpxHw_vk

Transformation complete ESTEPONA Town Hall has given details of the project that puts the finishing touch to the urban transformation of the town.

The mayor of Estepona, José María García Urbano, presented at FITUR the project that will be the culmination of the great urban transformation that the town has undergone in the last decade and which will involve the creation of a large public space in the heart of the town. It will merge the new pedestrian boulevard that the old N340 road has become - generating one of the best promenades in the country - with the renovated historic centre, known as the ‘Garden of the Costa del Sol’.

This project will make the 22,000 square metre public space of the cenTHE marina and the coastal path are the two main priorities for Benalmadena Council in 2024.

During a presentation, at the Costa del Sol stand of FITUR (the International Tourism Fair), infographics showed how the coastal path will be connected to the Benalmadena marina with the new seawall to the Nautical Centre and the new nautical shopping area.

trally located Avenida San Lorenzo a new attraction for both residents and tourists, creating rest and leisure areas in a revitalised town in an environmentally sustainable setting.

Work is expected to begin after Easter, with a duration of 20 months.

There will be another large pedestrian boulevard with leisure and commercial spaces and an underground car park with capacity for more than 300 vehicles, with the municipal parking network system costing drivers €1 per day.

The mayor said that this project will contribute to the, “economic and social activity that has brought about the great urban transformation that Estepona has undergone.”

Priorities for 2024

The mayor of Benalmadena, Juan Antonio Lara unveiled at FITUR, the extension of the Nautical Centre building with a new commercial area that will include businesses dedicated to nautical and other ancillary businesses, an aerial view of the new seawall to the Nautical Centre pontoon,

and the refurbishment of the building to house nautical sports associations and a training centre.

The remodelling of the square that will result from the connection between the promenade and the Port will create an auditorium for events and cultural activities.

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HOW will climate change affect a top tourist destination like Spain?

In 2023, Spain emerged as the world’s premier tourist destination, overtaking France for the first time.

Last year, the country welcomed approximately 84 million visitors, with tourist spending surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

However, a recent report on the tourism sector from David Cesar Heymann indicated that climate change is taking its effect on tourist spending.

The CaixaBank report highlights that climate change is already impacting Spain’s tourism sector.

“The main risk in the medium and long term for tourism in Spain is climate change,” Heymann warns.

He explains that a rise of four degrees in summer temperatures could result in a decline in tourism by

Credit: Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock.com

FEELING THE HEAT: Promoting shaded spots is key.

up to 15 per cent.

One of the factors behind Spain’s success as a tourist destination is it’s price competitiveness. In 2024 security is also expected to play a significant role.

“Spain has a very high perception of security among international tourists and when there is tension or instability in the Middle East, historically the Spanish tourism sector has benefited,” says Heymann.

British and North Ame-

rican tourists are particularly sensitive to these security situations claims the expert.

So, how should the tourism sector respond to these changes? Investment in night-time leisure and dining options becomes crucial, especially during heatwaves.

In coastal areas, promoting water activities and shaded spots is key, while urban destinations should focus on air-conditioned or well-ventilated activities.

NATIONAL SERVICE was mandatory in Britain from 1947 until 1963, and during that time more than two million men were conscripted into the British Army, Royal Navy or the Royal Air Force.

National service is the mandatory legal obligation to serve in the country’s military.

This meant that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 30 were called up during this time. In Spain, compulsory military service, colloquially known as ‘la mili’ in Spanish, began in the late 18th and 19th centuries and officially ended in December 2001. During the last two decades, military conscription has been abandoned by some European countries in an attempt to shift towards volunteer armies and increase professionalism and specialised training in the defence forces.

However, in 2024, Na-

Credit: Shutterstock/248200348

Mandatory service Sustainable tourism

NATIONAL SERVICE: British soldiers in France 1918.

tional Service or ‘military conscription’ seems to be experiencing a general comeback in Europe. The country of Latvia passed a law in April 2023 calling for the mandatory reintroduction of military conscription after it was abolished in 2007.

An issue that is currently apparent is the overall reduction of the sizes of European armies, which is crucial, especially amid the threat of Russia, which has undoubtedly created a new-found sense of anxie-

ty for the ever present possibility of war.

In France, a law was passed by parliament in 2018 that would require some type of military services for all genders beginning in 2024. Prime Minister Macron stated that he “hoped it would reinvigorate a sense of French civic duty.”

In the new generation of social media and selfies, would a responsibility to one’s country for the young adults of 2024 serve as a form of character building?

16 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 Photo credit: Megan Mallen

euroweeklynews.com II NEWS

PIEDEMONT: One of Italy’s principal wine-growing areas.

Fewer Italians

Linda Hall ITALY is drinking less wine. Analysis by the Unione Italiana Vini (Uiv)-Ismea Observatory based on figures from data specialist Nielsen found that the country’s supermarkets, stores and distributors sold just under one billion bottles of wine in 2023.

This was 3.1 per cent less than in 2022, with an 8 per cent dip over the five years between 2018 and 2023. According to the Observatory, 2023 was “a complicated year” owing to changes in post-pandemic consumption habits and generalised price rises.

Red wines took the hardest hit, with a 15 per cent slump over the past five years although 19 per cent more people bought sparkling wines and Prosecco in 2023 than they did in 2019, with sales of 139 million bottles. Rose enjoyed a 17 per cent increase

over this same period.

But although the Italians might be drinking less wine than previously, the Observatory also found that they were becoming more discerning.

Overall sales of wine with DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label fell by just two per cent while white wine saw a 3 per cent increase since pre-pandemic 2019.

The Observatory also found that people buying online ordered more DOP and TGI (Typical Geographical Indication) wines which accounted for 75 per cent of the total purchases of non-sparkling wines.

Online purchases have increased threefold since 2019, the Observatory noted, although internet orders had declined by 21 per cent over the past two years, compared with the high of 2021.

Flight bomb scare

THE National Court has recently delivered a verdict in a case involving a young British man’s ‘joke’ bomb hoax, while he was about to board a flight to Menorca.

On July 3, 2022, the accused, a 19-year-old man of Indian origin holding a British passport, sent a Snapchat message to a private group of friends while preparing to board a flight from London to Menorca.

The message, which included a photo of himself and a text stating, ‘On the way to fly the plane (I am a member of the Taliban)’, was picked up by British security.

The plane, flying over French airspace at the time, was then escorted by a Eurofighter from the Spanish air force to its destination in Menorca.

Upon landing, the plane and its passengers

Credit: Juan Ci/Shutterstock.com

NOT GUILTY: The court decided it was meant as a joke.

underwent isolation and a thorough check, which confirmed the absence of any explosives or indications of a genuine threat.

In his nine-page ruling, Judge Jose Manuel Fernandez-Prieto of the Central Criminal Court analysed the facts and the legal implications.

He concluded that the accused’s actions did not constitute a crime. The judge noted that the message was intended as a private joke among friends,

with no evidence of any intention to provoke the mobilisation of security forces.

The court remained uncertain about how British security services intercepted the private message, as this was not substantiated during the trial.

This case highlights the delicate balance between personal jokes and public security, raising questions about privacy and the unforeseen impact of seemingly harmless actions.

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IRELAND Toy story AN investigation into broadcaster RTE’s Toy Show The Musical found there was no record that the RTE Board ever gave its approval for the musical at Dublin’s Convention Centre in December 2022. Expert advice was allegedly ignored and the project accumulated €2.2 million in losses after a shortfall in ticket sales.

Free trees TRINITY COLLEGE, Dublin, gave away more than 100 birch seedlings that sprang up during 2023’s No Mow May initiative to provide wildflowers for pollinators. As the seedlings grew, the lawns were left unmown until the following September, after which they were potted and cared for by the university’s gardeners.

SWEDEN

euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS

EUROPRESS NORWAY Here to stay KING HARALD once more stressed that unlike Queen Margarethe of Denmark, he had no plans to abdicate in favour of his son and heir, Prince Haakon. King Harald, who will be 87 on February 21 said that he swore an oath to parliament when he came to the throne 33 years ago “and it is for life,” he added.

KING HARALD: Norway’s king has no intention of abdicating.

ITALY

GERMANY Joint plan HEALTH minister Karl Lauterbach expects the Bundestag national parliament to pass the Cannabis Act legalising marihuana in February. The new legislation could come into force by April, despite opposition from some regions, including Bavaria, and even members of Lauterbach’s own Social Democrats party.

Keep clear

Photo credit: CC/Samediggi-Sametinget

FRANCE

ANTI-ABORTION activists could soon face fines of up to €5,000 for demonstrating or approaching the public within a 100-metre radius of family planning centres or clinics where terminations are performed. Once a draft law goes through, they are also prevented from displaying intimidating posters or handing out leaflets.

DENMARK

Work permits

Not so hot

All the same

Old words

SWEDEN’S Migration Agency issued 102,139 new resident permits in 2023, a 28 per cent reduction on the 143,179 granted in 2022.

These included 36,000 work permits which, again, were down on the previous year’s 41,396, with the majority issued to berry pickers, IT architects, system developers and test leaders.

THE famous calendar featuring ‘hot’ young priests on sale in Rome’s newspaper kiosks and souvenir shops is an annual bestseller, although the photographer responsible for the photos admitted that few are actually priests.

“But the intention was to give a profile to priests as a symbol of Rome,” he told Il Post newspaper.

THE French government intends to “erase inequality and create conditions for respect” by introducing uniforms in all state school pupils, beginning with a trial period for 100 chosen centres. According to the national media, the authorities have settled on a white or grey polo shirt, a blue jersey and grey trousers.

RUNES were the alphabet of Denmark’s earliest written language and archaeologists believe they have located the oldest inscription yet discovered in Odense on the island of Funen. Etched 2,000 years ago on an eight-centimetre knife found in a grave there, the five characters spell out ‘hirila’, meaning ‘little sword’.

Hack attack

Foraging mishap

Breathe easy

Careful move

ALONG with other public authorities, the Swedish parliament was affected by a ransomware hit on IT supplier Tietoevry’s data centre by the Russian group Akira between January 20 and 21. This involved Primula, a human resources system that is used by 120 public bodies including the parliament offices.

BRITON Steven Harper (38), who had planned to cycle from Dundee to India, plummeted to his death from a cliff in Ventimiglia, presumably on becoming delirious after eating foraged wild mushrooms. Helicoptered to hospital after he was seen falling, the father of two died of injuries caused by the fall.

ANALYSES carried out for the regional transport system found ‘high particle pollution’ at the Belleville, Oberkampf and Jaures metro stations in Paris.

Environmentalists had already attributed the high air pollution in some parts of the metro system to the trains’ mechanical brakes applied each time they came to a stop.

DENMARK will grant more work permits for immigrants who work in the social care sector, after MPs and the government reached agreement on increasing the country’s Positive List scheme for ‘desired professions’.

This will now enable 1,000 foreign applicants to enter the country to work in the care sector.

BELGIUM

THE NETHERLANDS

FINLAND

PORTUGAL

Pay up

Eco-friendly

Less aid

Name sakes

BELGIUM’S expatriate tax scheme, introduced in 1983 for residents who were hired from abroad, came to an end in January 2024.

Only residents who earn more than an annual €75,000 gross or are engaged in scientific, industrial, technological or academic research are now eligible for the scheme.

A SURVEY by two labour economists found that an increasing number of residents would prefer to work for a climate-conscious company rather than a firm without sustainability goals. Some said that they would be willing to take a ‘considerable’ cut in their wages in order to work for a sustainable employer.

FINLAND’S Foreign Trade and Development ministry confirmed that the government is cutting foreign aid, multilateral co-operation, humanitarian assistance, development loans and investments by more than a billion euros.

This includes discontinuing the Afghanistan, Kenya, Mozambique and Myanmar programmes.

PORTUGAL’S Statistics Institute (INE) revealed that the country’s four most-encountered names were Maria for females and Francisco, Tiago and Duarte (a variation on Eduardo) for males. Most common surnames were found to be Silva, Nunes, Santos and Ferreira, the same source announced.

Extra mile FOOD packaging in Flanders will include information about animal production standards, identifying products from companies that follow ethical procedures when raising animals. “The public can now see which producers go the extra mile for animal welfare and which do not,” Flanders’ Animal Welfare ministry said.

Not wanted A TOTAL of 1,040 British residents had to leave the Schengen area as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland in 2023.

The Netherlands was responsible for 275 expulsions, more than any other nation, after Brits overstayed, had residence and work permits rejected or, in some cases, committed serious crimes.

Northern lights THE forecasting service introduced 20 years ago to inform the public when they are most likely to see the aurora borealis uses fluctuations in the Earth’s magnetic field to predict the chances of aurora appearances. This has now has been ‘significantly upgraded’ to enhance accuracy, Finland’s meteorological service said.

Fado feature THE Poor Things film soundtrack composed by British pop musician Jerskin Fendrix has been nominated for Best Original Score in the upcoming Oscars to be held next month.

This includes a Fado performed by Carminho who has a role in the film, singing and playing the guitar in an imaginary Lisbon.

FINANCE BUSINESS EXTRA Fizz sells

CHAPEL DOWN, which produces English sparkling wine in Kent, announced sales of £15 million (€17.5 million) in 2023, a 14 per cent increase as the company nabbed part of Champagne’s market share. Turnover had also been assisted by a 12 per cent increase in prices, chief executive Andrew Carter said.

Car sales

THE Spanish government received €724 million from vehicle registration tax in 2023. This was more than at any time since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, and also the highest figure since the record sum of €1.08 billion charged during the pre-crisis boom year of 2008, tax authority Hacienda’s record showed.

Boohoo move

AFTER occupying the post for two years, Boohoo’s chief financial officer Shaun McCabe resigned ‘with immediate effect’ by mutual agreement on January 23. His role in the company, which owns Karen Millen, PrettyLittleThing and Dorothy Perkins. will be taken over by former Betfair and Zoopla executive Stephen Morana.

Long story short

SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) is examining documents provided by pharmaceuticals company Grifols, accused of misrepresenting its debts and financial position by short sellers Gotham City Research.

Milk run

WINCANTON, a haulage company founded in 1925 to transport milk, agreed a £765 million (€894.4 million) takeover by a subsidiary of CMA CGA, the French shipping and logistics company. This is owned by billionaire Rodolphe Saade and his family, whose combined wealth is estimated at $9.8 billion (€9.05 billion).

20

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STAT OF WEEK

€30.3 billion

was paid out in dividends to shareholders in companies quoted on Spain’s Ibex 35 index in 2023, the highest figure since 2019 and 16.6 per cent up on 2022.

Never on Saturday

Linda Hall ROYAL MAIL could save £650 million (€760.8 million) annually by delivering letters three days each week.

Eliminating now-obligatory Saturday deliveries and distributing letters five times a week would save between £100 million (€117.1 million) and £200 million (€234.2 million), Ofcom, the UK’s Communications regulator, said.

Future changes could include first and second-class deliveries taking up to three days or longer, with a next-day service for urgent letters.

Calculating that the universal service obligation

Photo credit: CC/kitmasterbloke

ROYAL MAIL: Saturday deliveries could be phased out.

(USO) costs Royal Mail between £325 million (€380.4 million) and £675 million (€790.1 million), Ofcom also suggested maintaining Saturday deliveries while supporting the company with a state subsidy or a levy on other industry operators.

CRYPTOCURRENCY is joining forces with sport through crypto fan tokens.

These allow football fans to invest in their club while giving them a say in management decisions as well as access to some exclusives.

But do they make a profit on their investment?

Crypto tax experts CoinLedger analysed the actions of fan tokens in 2023. Using this data they calculated how much a $100 (€91.80) fan token investment made on January 1, 2023 would be worth 12 months later.

“For context, Bitcoin had a 155.18

Ofcom’s chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes stressed that postal workers were “critical” to Britain’s communities.

“But we’re sending half as many letters as we did in 2011 and receiving many more parcels,” she said.

Dawes added that the USO, which has not changed since then, was out of date and would become financially and operationally unsustainable unless action was taken.

An Ofcom survey found that reliable letter deliveries was important for 88 per cent of respondents while Saturday deliveries were still important for 58 per cent, compared with 63 per cent in 2020.

Meanwhile, Postal Affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake told a Radio Times interviewer that Britain’s PM, Rishi Sunak was “very clear” that a six-day delivery was important for people and businesses.

Highs and lows Photo credit: CC/Beric Dondarrion

BOLOGNA FC: Italian team gave best return on fan tokens.

per cent increase in 2023 so $100 invested in Bitcoin on January 1, 2023, was worth $255.17 (€234.23) on January 1, 2024,” CoinLedger explained.

Football apart, the experts found that Bologna FC gave the best return.

Bologna is one of Italy’s few sides with fan tokens, which in January 2023 cost $0.24 (€0.22) each.

A $100 outlay would now be worth $273.48 (€251.10) an increase of 173.48 per cent while outperforming Bitcoin by 18.3 per cent in 2023.

Barcelona FC, however, languished three from the bottom on CoinLedger’s list, as its $3.49 (€3.20) fan tokens fell to $2.29 (€2.10), with the initial $100 now worth (€60.18).

Hypocritical Thriving regions Vegan rescue

TATA, confirmed on January 19 that it would close Port Talbot’s two blast furnaces, resulting in 2,800 job losses. Citing the need to reduce carbon emissions, the steelworks’ India-based owners said the furnaces would be replaced with an electric arc furnace, prompting accusations of “gross hypocrisy” from the unions. According to reports in the Guardian, they said this environmental excuse was contradicted

by Tata’s plans for a giant blast furnace at its Kalinganagar industrial centre in eastern India.

The workers and the unions also criticised the UK government, which they said should have offered more financial incentives to persuade Tata to support domestic steel production.

SPAIN’S northern regions are expected to drive the increase in 2024’s gross domestic product (GDP).

“Goods manufacturing will continue to be the economy’s principal energiser,” BBVA Research’s latest Regional Analysis predicted, with Cantabria and Navarra leading the country’s growth rate. A slowdown in exports, coupled with still-high energy prices and increased interest rates had combined to produce a generalised cutback in regional forecasts, BBVA Research said. The Basque Region, Aragon, Galicia, Castilla y Leo, Cantabria and Navarra economies were expected to grow by just over 2 per cent in 2024 compared with Spain’s national average of 1.5 per cent, three-10ths less than last autumn’s estimates. BBVA Research foresaw more economic brio in 2025 with growth averaging 2.5 per cent thanks to increased domestic and European demand, as well as tourism.

HEATHER MILLS has saved her VBites company from collapse.

A £1 million (€1.17 million) deal brought the business out of administration after escalating overheads and competition from cheaper vegan rivals had left Mills with losses of £3.1 million (€3.6 million). She complained at the time that she received only three days’ notice of the administration notice.

Although the rescue covers Mills’ assets and factories in County Durham and Northamptonshire, 64 VBites employees were made redundant, although Beatle Paul McCartney’s ex-wife has pledged to reinstate them.

Big names ONE of the newly-created Hyperion Fund FCR’s partners has been revealed as Pablo Casado, president of the Partido Popular party until April 2022.

The venture capital fund will focus on aerospace, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and dual-use defence items, excluding arms and lethal material, which also have civilian applications.

“This growth equity fund aims to raise €150 million and invest in emerging European technological companies, paying particular attention to small and medium Spanish companies while supporting their growth,” Hyperion said.

Ricardo Gomez-Acebo Botin, nephew of Santander chair Ana Botin, was named as another of the fund’s five partners.

Offer almost accepted TELEFONICA’S holding in its Germany subsidiary increased from 71.81 per cent to 93.10 per cent.

The €1.48 billion cash operation was carried out by Telefonica’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Telefonica Local Services. The offer announced in November 2023 was accepted by 7.86 per cent of Telefónica Deutschland’s shareholders although Telefonica had also acquired approximately 13.43 per cent of the German subsidiary’s share capital and voting rights. This included the settlement of financial instruments that gave the Spanish multinational the right to acquire approximately 1.32 per cent of Telefonica Deutschland’s share capital.

Paper woes BRITAIN’s government should intensify the investigation into the Telegraph takeover, former Health minister Neil O’Brien said. RedBird IMI, the Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund mainly financed

by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s vice-president and Manchester City FC owner, is settling the Telegraph owners’ £1.6 billion debt with Lloyds Bank.

Once the operation was completed, RedBird maintained it would convert the loan to take possession of the publication and it could still decide its ownership even if the bid were blocked.

22 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.432,00.............+21,00........... +0,87%...........1,42M Admiral Group.............................2.503,0............... -14,0.............-0,56%........... 17,14K Airtel Africa................................. 123,50................ -1,90.............-1,51%........... 98,50K Anglo American...........................1.875,8............... -12,4.............-0,66%.......... 173,70K Antofagasta................................1.697,00.............. -3,00.............-0,18%........... 32,51K Ashtead Group............................5.234,0............... -10,0.............-0,19%........... 25,13K Associated British Foods.............2.382,4................ -1,6..............-0,07%........... 30,22K AstraZeneca...............................10.602,0..............+56,0............ +0,53%.......... 43,71K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 739,60................ -2,20.............-0,30%.......... 146,53K Aviva........................................... 436,99................ -0,61.............-0,14%.......... 128,51K B&M European Value Retail SA... 537,80................ -0,40.............-0,07%........... 95,95K BAE Systems..............................1.191,50.............+23,50........... +2,01%......... 278,32K Barclays...................................... 149,74................+0,50............ +0,34%...........1,69M Barratt Developments................. 537,60................ -5,40.............-0,99%.......... 105,10K Beazley........................................ 543,50................ -1,50.............-0,28%........... 38,83K Berkeley......................................4.813,0............... -52,0.............-1,07%............ 4,44K BP............................................... 469,70................+8,00............ +1,73%...........2,79M British American Tobacco...........2.373,0...............+40,0............ +1,72%......... 375,83K BT Group.................................... 115,20................ -1,00.............-0,86%.......... 756,32K Bunzl...........................................3.177,0................ -7,0..............-0,22%........... 18,03K Burberry Group...........................1.334,5................ -7,0..............-0,52%........... 57,32K Centrica....................................... 137,22................ -0,43.............-0,31%.......... 725,24K Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.345,0................+3,0............. +0,13%.......... 13,72K Compass....................................2.161,00.............+14,00........... +0,65%.......... 93,92K ConvaTec Group......................... 238,60................ -1,80.............-0,75%........... 57,88K Croda Intl....................................4.697,0............... -59,0.............-1,24%........... 13,04K DCC.............................................5.716,0............... -44,0.............-0,76%............ 4,84K Diageo.........................................2.865,0...............+16,0............ +0,56%......... 241,32K Diploma.....................................3.306,00............. -28,00............-0,84%........... 10,34K DS Smith.................................... 288,10................ -3,20.............-1,10%.......... 135,49K Endeavour Mining......................1.434,00..............+8,00............ +0,56%.......... 14,81K Entain.......................................... 956,80............... -10,40............-1,08%........... 82,07K Experian......................................3.266,0................+8,0............. +0,25%.......... 47,27K F&C Invest.................................. 966,00................ -1,00.............-0,10%........... 55,54K Flutter Entertainment..................16.265,0.............. -60,0.............-0,37%............ 9,21K Frasers........................................ 808,50................+2,50............ +0,31%.......... 68,77K Fresnillo...................................... 510,00...............+11,20........... +2,25%.......... 50,34K Glencore...................................... 419,90................ -2,80.............-0,66%.......... 786,58K GSK plc......................................1.550,60.............+13,60........... +0,89%......... 162,34K HALEON...................................... 320,60................+2,80............ +0,88%......... 755,20K Halma..........................................2.163,0............... -32,0.............-1,46%........... 23,58K Hikma Pharma...........................1.904,00..............+4,00............ +0,21%........... 6,67K Howden Joinery.......................... 808,00................ -4,60.............-0,57%........... 18,38K HSBC.......................................... 621,23................+4,33............ +0,70%...........1,26M IAG.............................................. 151,85................ -2,20.............-1,43%............1,01M IMI PLC......................................1.679,00..............+9,00............ +0,54%.......... 32,97K Imperial Brands..........................1.947,32.............+13,32........... +0,69%......... 137,85K Informa....................................... 774,00................+2,60............ +0,34%.......... 70,09K InterContinental..........................7.484,0................+2,0............. +0,03%.......... 15,14K

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Intermediate Capital...................1.789,00............. -26,00............-1,43%........... 61,69K Intertek........................................4.506,0...............+48,0............ +1,08%.......... 11,35K J Sainsbury................................. 274,30................ -1,70.............-0,62%.......... 170,23K JD Sports Fashion....................... 117,60................ -0,20.............-0,17%.......... 277,22K Kingfisher.................................... 220,50................ -4,60.............-2,04%.......... 275,78K Land Securities........................... 659,80................ -0,60.............-0,09%........... 44,89K Legal & General.......................... 254,74................ -0,76.............-0,30%.......... 654,80K Lloyds Banking............................ 42,14.................+0,04............ +0,10%...........5,92M London Stock Exchange..............9.044,0............... -26,0.............-0,29%........... 48,73K M&G........................................... 226,50................ -0,30.............-0,13%.......... 202,82K Marks & Spencer........................ 255,86................ -0,04.............-0,02%.......... 273,54K Melrose Industries...................... 585,48................+4,08............ +0,70%......... 123,98K Mondi.........................................1.459,00............. -32,55............-2,18%........... 55,40K National Grid..............................1.056,00.............+12,50........... +1,20%......... 308,72K NatWest Group........................... 223,80................ -0,20.............-0,09%............1,46M Next............................................8.488,0............... -20,0.............-0,23%............ 2,79K Ocado.......................................... 563,39............... -12,41............-2,16%........... 80,41K Pearson....................................... 973,20................+7,20............ +0,74%.......... 50,52K Pershing Square........................3.700,00.............+22,00........... +0,60%.......... 14,80K Phoenix....................................... 518,56................ -3,24.............-0,62%.......... 110,33K Prudential.................................... 846,00............... -12,20............-1,42%.......... 281,97K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.648,0............... -10,0.............-0,18%........... 42,49K Relx............................................3.289,00.............+13,00........... +0,40%......... 137,33K Rentokil....................................... 401,20................ -2,80.............-0,69%.......... 389,32K Rightmove.................................. 558,60................ -4,80.............-0,85%........... 39,61K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.565,0...............+16,0............ +0,29%.......... 97,73K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 303,70................ -1,70.............-0,56%............1,08M RS PLC....................................... 765,00................ -2,40.............-0,31%........... 24,19K Sage...........................................1.172,75.............. -5,75.............-0,49%.......... 136,32K Schroders.................................... 407,3................. -17,8.............-4,19%.......... 248,22K Scottish Mortgage....................... 777,00................ -4,40.............-0,56%.......... 121,23K Segro.......................................... 860,60................ -4,60.............-0,53%........... 58,91K Severn Trent...............................2.553,0................ -5,0..............-0,20%............ 9,42K Shell............................................2.469,0...............+39,5............ +1,63%......... 585,72K Smith & Nephew........................1.093,55............. -11,45............-1,04%........... 55,73K Smiths Group.............................1.651,00.............. -5,50.............-0,33%........... 10,64K Smurfit Kappa.............................3.054,0............... -46,0.............-1,48%........... 48,55K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........9.916,0............... -54,0.............-0,54%............ 3,82K SSE............................................1.677,50............. -20,50............-1,21%.......... 323,99K St. James’s Place........................ 659,00............... -11,80............-1,76%........... 73,64K Standard Chartered..................... 609,00................+3,00............ +0,49%......... 132,07K Taylor Wimpey............................ 145,45................ -0,85.............-0,58%.......... 352,09K Tesco.......................................... 294,60................+1,10............ +0,38%......... 722,18K Unilever.......................................3.828,5................+5,0............. +0,13%......... 154,90K Unite..........................................1.002,00.............. -7,00.............-0,69%........... 17,83K United Utilities............................1.056,00.............. -1,50.............-0,14%........... 36,68K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 70,550............... -0,210............-0,30%............3,78M Weir Group................................1.812,82.............. -4,18.............-0,23%.......... 194,05K Whitbread...................................3.630,0............... -16,0.............-0,44%........... 15,78K WPP............................................ 770,00................+1,40............ +0,18%......... 101,04K

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page 0.85295

1.17273

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0836 Japan yen (JPY)...................................160.27 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9329 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4536 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.278 currenciesdirect.com/marbella • Tel: +34 952 906 581 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3M............................................... 96,00.................+0,02............ +0,02%...........3,63M American Express....................... 201,41...............+13,34........... +7,09%..........12,22M Amgen........................................ 311,77................+1,51............ +0,49%...........1,96M Apple........................................... 192,42................ -1,75.............-0,90%...........41,89M Boeing......................................... 205,50................+3,62............ +1,79%...........9,80M Caterpillar.................................... 299,41................ -1,36.............-0,45%............2,36M Chevron...................................... 149,15................+0,58............ +0,39%...........7,50M Cisco............................................ 52,14................. -0,19.............-0,36%...........12,58M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,37.................+0,21............ +0,36%..........12,16M Dow............................................. 54,06................. -0,88.............-1,60%............5,11M Goldman Sachs........................... 377,88................ -4,82.............-1,26%............3,38M Home Depot................................ 355,30................+4,33............ +1,23%...........2,95M Honeywell................................... 201,80................ -0,76.............-0,38%............1,74M IBM............................................. 187,36................ -3,07.............-1,61%............9,32M Intel.............................................. 43,65................. -5,90............-11,91%.........126,74M J&J............................................. 159,51................ -0,05.............-0,03%............4,35M JPMorgan................................... 172,28................ -0,66.............-0,38%............7,14M McDonald’s................................. 292,30................ -4,91.............-1,65%............3,98M Merck&Co................................... 120,81................+0,68............ +0,57%...........7,37M Microsoft.................................... 403,93................ -0,94.............-0,23%...........16,33M Nike............................................. 102,73................+1,96............ +1,95%...........8,63M Procter&Gamble......................... 156,15................+0,53............ +0,34%...........6,85M Salesforce Inc............................. 279,96................+0,93............ +0,33%...........4,73M The Travelers.............................. 211,45................ -0,07.............-0,03%.......... 921,82K UnitedHealth............................... 503,13................+9,73............ +1,97%...........6,10M Verizon......................................... 42,40.................+0,11............ +0,25%..........19,33M Visa A.......................................... 267,90................ -4,71.............-1,73%............8,36M Walgreens Boots.......................... 22,85................. -0,26.............-1,13%...........10,06M Walmart...................................... 164,29................+1,45............ +0,89%...........3,68M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 29 January

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced AppFolio, Inc....................................................+28.26%.........................1.859M Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd..............................+17.10%........................ 409,729 Lonza Group AG...............................................+14.04%........................ 788,176 Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation........+13.58%..........................2.37M Rémy Cointreau SA..........................................+13.37%........................ 163,990 Fanuc Corporation............................................+10.20%......................... 15,083 Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc..........................+9.71%.........................87.559M SGS SA.............................................................+9.02%.......................... 53,559 Freedom Holding Corp......................................+8.40%......................... 409,501 Glacier Bancorp, Inc..........................................+8.35%..........................1.595M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Hub Group, Inc................................................ -50.48%........................ 266,180 WuXi Biologics (Cayman) Inc.......................... -16.20%........................ 559,124 Intel Corporation.............................................. -11.91%.......................127.665M ZKH Group Limited........................................... -9.93%.......................... 66,872 Lenovo Group Limited...................................... -8.53%.......................... 74,559 Chart Industries, Inc......................................... -7.54%..........................1.807M Fair Isaac Corporation....................................... -6.85%......................... 407,235 KLA Corporation............................................... -6.60%..........................2.195M Lattice Semiconductor Corporation.................. -6.52%..........................4.218M RWE Aktiengesellschaft.................................... -5.86%......................... 129,769 CG Oncology, Inc.............................................. -5.76%..........................1.719M M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com ASK THE EXPERT PETER LOVEDAY Peter Loveday Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com Contact me at

Euro EUR/GBP: Down from £0.86 to £0.85 EUR/USD: Down from $1.10 to $1.08 The euro got off to a poor start in 2024 as some disappointing data raised concerns over the Eurozone’s economic trajectory.

The euro’s negative correlation with the US dollar also acted as a headwind for the single currency in recent weeks, amid a revival in demand for the safe-haven ‘greenback’.

Hawkish commentary from the European Central Bank (ECB) helped to temper the downside in EUR exchange rates throughout the month, as officials continued to push back against interest rate cut expectations.

However, the euro still ticked lower again after the ECB’s first interest rate decision of the year, as President Christine Lagarde wasn’t perhaps as forceful in dispelling rate cut bets as EUR

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 23

CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EURO TUMBLES ON LACKLUSTRE DATA, US DOLLAR BOLSTERED BY GLOOMY MOOD investors had hoped.

Looking ahead to February, the euro may remain on the defensive if Eurozone economic data continues to disappoint.

Pound GBP/EUR: Up from €1.15 to €1.16 GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.27 The pound trended broadly higher over the past month, but its ascent did not come without hurdles.

This came as a result of some uneven UK data. While Sterling was supported by stronger-than-expected service sector growth and a surprise acceleration in inflation, it also faced headwinds as underwhelming GDP and retail sales figures stoked UK recession fears.

GBP exchange rates were also influenced by Bank of England (BoE) rate cut speculation. Bets that the BoE could begin loosening monetary policy as soon as

EURO: Got off to a poor start in 2024 with some disappointing data.

April infused some volatility into the Pound in the latter half of the month.

Looking ahead, the start of February will see the BoE deliver its first interest rate decision of 2024. No policy changes are expected next month, but the BoE’s forward guidance could provide a boost to the pound if it seeks to quell rate cut speculation.

US Dollar USD/GBP: Unchanged at $0.78 USD/EUR: Up from €0.90 to €0.91 The US dollar found its footing again in January, helping the currency to claw back a good portion of its losses from December.

This recovery in ‘greenback’ has been driven primarily by risk-off flows as growing tensions in the Middle East and

concerns over China’s economy have stoked demand for the safe-haven currency.

USD exchange rates have also been supported by a repricing of Federal Reserve rate cut bets. With the odds for a March rate cut having fallen from over 70% to around 50%. This comes in response to some stronger-than-expected US economic releases.

The immediate focus for USD investors will be the Fed’s impending interest rate decision.

Will the US central bank lean into expectations for a March rate hike? Or will the Fed adopt a more hawkish tone in order to quash this speculation?

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.

24 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DELIGHTED to see Trump still forging ahead in his race to re-establish the Republican crown; thereby bolstering his indomitable ambitions to regain his position in the White House. Before all you Trump haters start mailing in your, ‘anti Leapy’s opinions’ rhetoric, don’t get me wrong, I personally can’t stand the man.

To me he is an egotistical, arrogant and utterly dangerous individual. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age, his reputation is exactly what the West requires to steer it through a minefield of world leaders who are bloated with precisely the same qualities.

The soft woke approach of those affiliated to the doddering Biden and his implausible bunch of leftie helpers, especially his woke riddled vice president Kamala Harris is actually inviting disaster. ‘Fighting for the people’, which she continues to advocate, is simply in no way formidable enough to compete and even keep the peace (or pace) in a world that is run by the despotic likes

of Putin, Jinping, Khamenei and Kim Jong-un! If anybody can frighten these tyrants into hunkering down into negotiations it is an imperious autocrat like Mr Trump. One thing is for sure, the presidential contender is frightening all his political rivals to the very core.

Have no doubt that those involved in the ‘Trump Hunt’ are wallowing in deep symposiums far into the night; all taking place in boardrooms comprised of individuals totally aware that should Trump be once again ensconced in the oval office, it’ll be bye bye to the lot of ‘em.

Excluding of course those who see the popularity of their present administration slipping away and raise their heads above the parapet swearing their allegiance to the new leader before they get drummed into oblivion with the rest. (Heaven forbid they would need to sell the yacht or move into a smaller house!) At this moment however they are attempting just about every twist and turn they can to discredit their formidable rival before the votes pour in.

They’ve even come up with a distinctly unwell woman who has managed to win a case against him for a rape accusation occurring years ago. The judgment,

undoubtedly brought about by members of the Biden supporters club, has awarded the ‘victim’ some 83 million dollars even though Trump professes to have never even met her. Maybe he has, maybe he hasn’t. I doubt if those who sat in judgment even actually cared.

The important thing is the ‘Trump Hunt’ and the discredit it can bring. I also seem to recall this almost certainly equivalent legal mob, somehow damping down a highly illegal state of affairs concerning Biden’s son during his Dad’s own race for the White House. In fact these investigations have been going on pretty unobtrusively for years.

Somewhat unsurprisingly it has recently resulted in a plea deal with prosecutors which avoids jail time and quietly squashes any insensitive talking points in the run up to Dad’s new presidential endeavours. What a bunch. Let’s just hope all these trumped up accusations actually come up trumps for Trumps triumph. Or you can probably deal us all out.

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.

Paul Edwards SOMETIMES one has to wonder who is most stupid, scammers or those who fall for what are obviously ill conceived and simply impossible scams.

Happily, the average reader of Euro Weekly News is a lot brighter than the idiots behind what has been an ongoing attempted scam for several years.

We were sent this by a reader who lives in Costa Blanca and received an email purportedly from the Head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Interpol accusing them of all kinds of nefarious activities.

They are asked to respond to this email which has mysteriously found its way from Canada to Brazil (it reads cesar@ aluno.edu.jaru.ro.gov. br) confirming which jurisdiction they live in so that the necessary

Credit: hackNY.org flickr

Frightening to the core

An obvious scam

All a scammer needs is a computer and email account.

warrant can be served on them.

Clearly the hope is that the person receiving the email will respond and thus their email address is verified which leaves them open to further approaches from the potential scammers.

To some extent it would make some element of sense if you live in Canada to receive an email from the Canadian Police (even though it’s obviously false) but the mentality of those sending this accusation to Spain almost beggars belief.

Costumes & Music

SINGLES NIGHT

Kevin Fraser Park ESTEPONA will celebrate Carnival with a carnival market, the traditional costume contest, and comparsas and chirigotas (traditional street bands).

From February 9 to 11, the Plaza del Ajedrez will host craft and food stalls, music, a children’s party, competitions, a fire show, a children’s play area, circus acts, archery and workshops.

The programme is as follows:

Friday 9:

Flickr CC / José Luis Suerte

5.30pm: Official opening of the Carnival Market.

Parade and performance by the street band ‘Ponte una Milnoh’, stilt walkers, circus acts, all leaving from the European Union roundabout towards the Plaza del Ajedrez.

9pm: Music in the Plaza del Ajedrez.

Saturday 10:

11am: Opening of stalls at the Carnival Market.

Midday: Children’s Party ‘CHIQUI POP’, with the performance of an Animation Group, and fancy-dress parade with prizes for the best costume.

2pm: Street band perfromances 6pm: Traditional ‘burial of the sardine’ at La Rada beach (Post Office area).

The procession will leave from the Plaza del Ajedrez.

9.40pm: Fire Show.

10pm: Music in the Plaza

del Ajedrez.

Sunday 11: 11am: Opening of stalls at the Carnival Market.

12.30pm onwards: Circus

Fuengirola with Love

EXPERIENCE

ABBA

Photo: Facebook / The ABBAExperience

ON Monday February 26 at Los Arcos Restaurant in Coin you get your chance to support a great charity, Last Chance Animal Rescue, while enjoying some of the best music from the 1970s and 1980s. Performing will be the fabulous Amelinda and Juliet as The ABBA Experience. Get your dancing shoes on and come in your ABBA Outfit as a prize will be given to the best outfit. Featuring some of the famous band’s greatest hits including: Mamma-Mia, Dancing Queen, Chiquitita and many more with The ABBA Experience, a tribute to one of pop music’s most legendary groups.

Doors open at 6.45pm and the entertainment will start at 8.30pm. Tickets are just €7 which includes €3 for the charity. Drinks and food will be available. If you are eating, please order asap so you can then enjoy the show, which starts at 8.30pm.

Event tickets are payable in advance at the charity shops: Ave. Maria Zambrano 19, Coin. (Next to the Olive Tree Bar Restaurant) and from the Charity Warehouse in Ave. Blast Infante 43, Alhaurin el Grande (a few doors from Ye Ole Butchers).

The mission of the charity, Last Chance Animal Rescue, is to find loving forever homes for the huge number of abandoned, abused and injured animals that they rescue.

As with many charity organisations, they do not receive any government funding and rely entirely on donations and fundraising events such as this.

FUENGIROLA Town Hall and the town’s traders are promoting a new edition of ‘Vive Fuengirola con Amor’ (Live Fuengirola with Love), which this year will be held from February 12 to 18. Isabel Moreno and Francisco Javier García Lara, councillors for Fiestas and Commerce, respectively, explained that the programme for this initiative is being finalised however, establishments interested in participating can join by sending an e-mail with their proposals or suggestions to comercio@ fuengirola.org.

“February is the month in which we celebrate Valentine’s Day and for the third time we are organising ‘Vive Fuengirola con Amor’ in our town. To do this, we are finalising the extensive

acts The town hall encourages everyone to put on their fancy dress costumes and join in the fun! programme of activities to take place from February 12 to 18, so that we can enjoy the different forms of love in our town,” said Moreno, who encouraged everyone to attend the various activities.

SINGLES, make Valentine’s memorable this year by celebrating in style on Saturday February 17.

A vibrant fun gathering of people all looking to find love and new connections, without the complications of online dating and endless time spent messaging. Join in an elegant evening in a beautiful relaxed setting at Marbella’s Marietta near Elviria, let the conversations flow and sparks ignite for a truly unique evening chatting with those who capture your attention. The evening will begin at 8pm with a team ready and waiting to greet you with your complimentary drink. the hosts and hostesses will be on hand to enhance your experience and get conversations flowing with warm introductions.

Tickets for the event are €15, WhatsApp: 611 233 689.

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Cool & Quality Cuisine at Coto Restaurante ADVERTISING FEATURE COTO Restaurante is a luxury dining experience, offering a specialised menu that consists of international cuisine of great elaboration. It is located on the winding Ronda road, between the two entrances to La Zagaleta and opposite El Madroñal.

The restaurant not only serves its diners delicious and decadent dishes, but it also boasts breathtaking views over the Andalucian countryside and right out to the Mediterranean Sea. The history of the building dates back to 1978, when it was owned by a Spanish family who ran it as ‘El Coto Restaurante’ for many years.

However, when Clive Rogers, who is the Head Chef and Owner, purchased the property, he had a bigger and much deeper rooted plan. Clive states that the aim of the project was to: “connect the natural Andalucian landscape with the interior of the restaurant, blending in with nature but with prominent architecture without being an eyesore.”

To do just this, he collaborated with a local architect Juan Salvador Shvartzberg, and spent the next four years planning, designing and obtaining the various permits and licences necessary to carry out the works.

The result is a striking but natural architectural masterpiece, that now hosts the meals and memories of Coto Restaurante. The entire façade of the restaurant is made up of floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, ensuring plenty of natural light inside and the feeling of being outside even when

inside. This unique interior design makes the dining experience much more than just consuming a meal, it is a luxury, a drawn out pleasure, much like the Spanish style of dinner itself.

Coto specialises in succulent cuts of meat, fresh fish, and of course its signature cocktails, but can also cater for each person’s individual wish. Euro Weekly News spoke to the man himself, Clive Rogers, who found it difficult to answer the question of ‘what is your favourite dish’. Clive responded that “it’s a tough one, because I put all my favourite meals

on the menu, I will have to say all of it!”

Coto Restaurante is also available for events, and the team is flexible with each particular client’s needs and desires for their special occasion.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Coto is offering a special seven-course menu which will be available from 6pm to 11pm on Wednesday, February 14. As a romantic musical backdrop to this dinner of love, the wonderful vocalist and guitarist duo Eva and Raul will be performing live. The cost is €70 per person and places are booking up fast so call +34 951 744 777 to avoid disappointment.

Coto Restaurante is on Ctra. de Ronda, A-397, Km 44, 29679, Benahavis. Its opening times are Monday to Saturday, 1pm to 12am, and 1pm to 6pm on Sunday. Visit their website for further information and reservations: cotorestaurante.com.

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L VE IN STYLE Shutterstock / Aleksandar Milutinovic

David Hart

MARBELLA’S hidden dining gem OAK Firehouse & Cocktail, the renowned steakhouse nestled against the picturesque backdrop of La Concha, invites you to indulge in an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration on Wednesday February 14.

This enchanting evening of romance features a specially curated fourcourse Valentine’s menu, priced at €80 per person, promising a culinary journey that will tantalise your taste buds and set the stage for a memorable gastronomic experience.

Sip a glass of Champagne on arrival under the stars as you savour a delectable array of dishes. Begin your romantic journey with a seafood sharing platter, enjoy the many main course options and finish your evening on a sweet note with a choice of desserts.

Immerse yourself in the ambiance of love with live music by Zoe Louise, whose repertoire includes the best hits from soul, pop, and current chart hits, creating the perfect soundtrack for your romantic evening.

Celebrate Love in Style at OAK Firehouse & Cocktail for an evening of love, exquisite cuisine, and enchanting music. Book via email at reservations@oakmarbella.com or call 951 319 411.

YOUNG AT

POP ART

Photo: Javier Melús

T

HE Casa de Las Tejerinas in Estepona will host the Pop Art exhibition by artist Javier Melús. The opening of the exhibition will take place on Friday February 2, at 6pm and can be visited until February 15, free of charge.

Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 8pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm. Javier Melús is a contemporary Spanish artist known for his Pop Art style and his ironic and colourful works, a reflection of his life with influences from advertising, fashion, urban art, comics, television, graphic design, music and, of course, countless Pop culture icons. Everything is processed and captured in his creations. Javier Melús takes emblematic elements of popular culture and redefines them in his work, injecting a new energy and visual appeal into his images, which are familiar and recognisable.

His work is not only aimed at art connoisseurs, but also at all kinds of audiences. His work is accessible and easy to understand, which has made him one of the most sought-after Pop Art artists. Now, after several years of national and international exhibitions and fairs, his work is present in more than 20 countries.

THE elderly (but young at heart) of Torremolinos will take centre stage at their ‘Carnival Party’ with a snack-dinner, live music and a fancy dress competition. It will be held on Friday February 16 from 5pm to 8pm at the Palacio de Congresos. The councillor for the Elderly, Paloma Beramendi, said that, “with this type of event we want to prevent loneliness among our elderly and encourage

participation.”

Those who wish to take part should come dressed in costume to participate in the contest where there will be prizes for the best group costume, the best individual female costume and the best individual male costume. The party will be rounded off with music by the group Metrópolis, who will encourage the attendees to dance and have a fun day out.

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A day of Welshness

Photo: Côr Meibion Morlais

BELLA Festival

Kevin Fraser Park FINAL arrangements are being made for this years St David’s Day event at Plaza Mezquita in Benalmadena, so prepare for ‘a day of Welshness’ on Friday March 1. What a line-up there is this year, after many emails, phone calls and a bit of nagging they have managed to secure a performance by a choir all the way from the Rhondda Valleys in South Wales, ‘Côr Meibion Morlais’ which traces its history back to 1928.

The 35 or so members of the choir are drawn from all ages and occupations: the youngest are under 25 years old, and the oldest over 70, with members from all professions and backgrounds. They sing all kinds of music, from opera choruses and religious works to folk songs and jazz

to pop songs and musical theatre, with most of our concerts including a vibrant selection from all these genres with of course, a strong Welsh bias. There is also a huge line-up of some of the Costa del Sol’s favourite entertainers, all giving up their time for local cancer hospice charity, Fundación Cudeca.

The event boasts a host of well-known local acts from along the coast. It all kicks off at 1pm and will be finishing about 9pm (ish). The Welsh are hoping that you will all come along and support them and have a great time. At the event they will also be selling tickets for the Choir as they will be staging a concert in Arroyo de la Miel at the Casa de la Cultura on March 6, with proceeds once again going to Cudeca.

Photo: Facebook / La La Love You

LA LA Love You and Isaac Corrales will be at the Bella Festival in Marbella. The Bella Festival, one of the events included in the programme for this coming summer at the Oasisss Marbella Fest, at the Finca de la Caridad in San Pedro Alcantara, continues to complete its line-up and performances by La La Love You and Isaac Corrales have just been announced. There are still more artists to be confirmed soon. The Bella Festival returns this year after the success of the last one, which saw artists such as Leiva, Dorian and Arde Bogotá.

For 2024, the programme will be headlined by Viva Suecia and Malmö 040, who have now been joined by La La Love You. The event combines indie with DJ sessions and electronic music, with We Are Not DJs and now Isaac Corrales joining the line-up. This second edition of the Bella Festival will take place on Saturday August 3 at the Finca de la Caridad in San Pedro Alcantara.

There are still artists to be announced but tickets are already on sale and it will be one of the highlights of the Oasisss Marbella Fest.

DragGALA

TORREMOLINOS Drag Gala will take place on Saturday February 17. It will be presented by Esther Arroyo and Divino, and will feature performances by Nayala, Kelly Roller and Azúcar Moreno.

Torremolinos Town Hall launched its programme for Pride 2024 at Fitur, the International Tourism Fair.

The programme of events aimed especially at the

LGTBI community, headed by Pride 2024, will take place from May 30 to June 1 in the area outside the Pablo Ruiz Picasso Cultural Centre. The launch was attended by the councillor for Equality, Francisco García Macias, the president of the Association of Gay Traders of Torremolinos (ACOGAT), Nacho Martínez,

the member of Epoa (European Pride Organisers Association), Juan Carlos Alonso, one of the presenters of the event, Xenon Spain, and the winner of the last edition of the Drag Gala, Alma DeSoul. Mayor of Torremolinos, Margarita del Cid said, “I would like to announce that just a few days ago the Governing Council of the Junta de Andalucia approved Torremolinos Pride as an event of tourist interest.

This is a unique and singular recognition in Andalucia, and in all of Spain, for an event of this type.”

As a precursor to Pride, the seventh Drag Gala Torremolinos 2024 will take place on Saturday February 17 at 8pm in the Auditorio Príncipe de Asturias. The gala will be hosted by the actress, model and presenter, Esther Arroyo, and the speaker and multidisciplinary artist, Divino. Tickets are available at a price of €5 on the website to rremolinosplus.com.

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1 - 7 February 2024

Photo: Facebook / Open House Malaga

OPEN HOUSE

Kevin Fraser Park MALAGA is bringing forward the dates for Open House in 2024, in 2023 it was held in November but it was announced at Fitur (The International Tourism Fair) that, for 2024 it will be held on May 10, 11 and 12.

The main reason for this change of dates is the importance of the walking tours in Open House Malaga.

Last year almost all of them were fully booked and this change will allow the festival to be enjoyed with more pleasant temperatures for strolling and discovering the city. The international architecture festival offered more than 45 free activities in 2023 in which the most interesting buildings of the city are opened to the public for just one weekend free of charge. The event continues to

gain more and more followers year after year and, in 2024, Open House Malaga promises to open the doors of interesting and inaccessible spaces and to invite everyone to explore the most emblematic corners of their city.

Open House is an international architecture festival held in more than 50 cities around the world (London, NY, Chicago, Milan, Buenos Aires, Sydney, Osaka and Athens, among others). It is an established and successful format with an important cultural reputation in the promotion of architecture and design.

Open House Malaga is the opportunity to discover the origins of Malaga and to understand the city, its colours, its flavours and its people from the hand of historians, architects and professionals.

ALHAURIN CARNIVAL Photo: Alhaurin Town Hall

ALHAURIN EL GRANDE has launched it’s carnival for 2024 with a wide-ranging programme of events. The Alhaurin el Grande Town Council’s Department of Festivities has unveiled the official poster for Carnival 2024 in the town, as well as the full programme of events for the festival.

The initial competitions will take place from Monday to Thursday, February 12 to 15, and the Grand Final of the competition will take place on Friday February 16 at 9pm.

The Antonio Gala municipal theatre will be the epicentre of Alhaurin’s carnival activity during that week. Although it will

not be the only location, he traditional Youth Carnival on Saturday February 10 will take to the main streets from 5pm and on Sunday February 18 the historic centre of the town will be the scene of the Grand Carnival Parade, children’s shows, performances and the traditional ‘burning of the sardine’ to close the festivities.

The councillor for fiestas, Ana Belén Ordóñez, together with the mayor of the town, Anthony Bermúdez and representatives of the two local carnival associations, ‘El soniquete’ and ‘Los porracitos’, unveiled this year’s official poster, the work of Juan Luis Angulo.

During her speech, the Fiestas councillor highlighted the intention to return to the essence of Alhaurino carnival, “We want this year’s carnival to be Carnival in its entirety and for this we need everyone’s involvement and interest, so that we can relive the essence and atmosphere of the carnival of years ago in the early years of the theatre.”

In addition, the councillor thanked all those involved in the world of Alhaurino carnival for their selfless involvement and also the municipal workers for their effort and dedication to improving the festival.

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THE IRISH TIMES

T  HE FILMS SHOWING IN ENGLISH ARE FROM 25/01/24 TO 31/01/24

PLAZA MAYOR CINEMA • MALAGA

OPPENHEIMER SUN: 12:25

RED DOG CINEMA • PUERTO BANUS

NAPOLEON THU: 17:00

MIGRATION THU: 17:15

WONKA THU: 17:15

MILLER’S GIRL THU: 18:40, 20:30

THE HUNGER GAMES: THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS AND SNAKES THU: 21:30

POOR THINGS THU: 18:50, 21:30

ANYONE BUT YOU THU: 19:30 AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM THU: 17:15 MEAN GIRLS THU: 19:30

MORE MOVIES ON

THE BEEKEEPER THU: 17:10 THE CANTERVILLE GHOST THU: 17:00 THE HOLDOVERS THU: 21:40

ADVERTISING FEATURE LOCATED on the strip in Calahonda, The Irish Times is your premier destination for all things sports, especially as the Rugby season kicks into high gear. Whether you bleed green for Ireland, roar for England, chant for Scotland, Wales, or Italy, Irish Times welcomes all enthusiasts to catch the action on one of our five screens, including a jaw-dropping 200-inch giant screen.

This weekend promises an electrifying line-up as Ireland clashes with France on Friday and Italy takes

on England on Saturday.

With our doors open seven days a week, Irish Times stands as the unrivalled late-night hotspot in Calahonda, offering an unforgettable experience for sports fanatics and partygoers alike.

Looking for the perfect venue to celebrate? Look no further. Irish Times caters to parties of all sizes, ensuring every occasion is nothing short of spectacular. As the sun sets, our stage comes alive with the sounds of live music, adding an extra layer of excitement

to your weekend plans.

This Friday, groove to the tunes of Terri Ryan and Ian Jacks, and on Saturday, join us for the ultimate party night with Bobbie and Ben, followed by the dynamic beats of DJ Terry Hobbs.

At Irish Times, it’s not just about the drinks; it’s about the atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make Irish Times your go-to spot. Because if Carlsberg made pubs, they’d probably look a lot like this.

CALAHONDA | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK | TEL. +34 722 766 277

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STARLITE KINGS

Photo: Facebook / Gipsy Kings

Kevin Fraser Park THE Gipsy Kings will perform at Starlite in Marbella on Friday July 19 with their guitarist and leader Nicolás Reyes at the front, to once again captivate the audience with their unmistakable style in which they mix flamenco, pop and Latin rhythms. It has been 25 years since the Gipsy Kings captured the world’s imagination with their self-titled debut album, a record that became a genuine phenomenon, certified gold and platinum around the globe, introducing millions of listeners to a unique, irresistible blend of traditional flamenco styles with Western pop and Latin rhythms. Since then, the band has toured virtually non-stop, to the farthest-flung corners of the planet, and sold almost 20 million albums.

In 2014, the band split up, giving rise to two groups that share the rights to their songs, each led by one of the founding brothers. Nicolás Reyes’ band (the other is André Reyes) is the one that will once again fill the Marbella festival with their music. The Gipsy Kings have spent a remarkable two-and-a-half decades at the top, in a category that’s all their own. Yet in those occasional periods when they aren’t touring, the band members still live with their families in the south of France, the area that defined their identities and their sound. Nicolás Reyes’ Gipsy Kings, were already at the festival last year and performed to a rapturous audience but now return bringing their unmistakable songs including: ‘Volare’, ‘Bamboleo’, ‘A Mi Manera’ and ‘Djobi Djoba’ to the Starlite stage.

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ALL AGAINST CANCER ON Saturday February 3 the first edition of the AECC charity gala dinner will take place at the Higuerón Hotel. An event in which the Spanish Association Against Cancer seeks to raise funds for four of its delegations in Malaga: Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Mijas and Torremolinos. The Spanish Association Against Cancer, within the initiative ‘All Against Cancer’ a collective movement that unites people, companies and institutions for a common cause; to overcome the 70 per cent survival rate by the year 2030. For this reason, Higuerón Hotel is joining forces to raise funds in what will be the first edition of the charity gala dinner.

Cancer in Spain is the second leading cause of death with a mortality rate of 25 per cent. Worldwide, cancer remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Projections for 2040 indicate that some

30 million people could be affected, an increase of 54 per cent. Javier Rodríguez, CEO of Higuerón Resort, said, “at Higuerón Resort we have always been very committed to the cause and we believe that it is essential to join forces in the fight against cancer and continue working to raise awareness. Between all of us we will succeed.”

Finally, Diego Gallegos, Michelin Star chef at Sollo

Restaurante, who will be in charge of preparing one of his most emblematic dishes for the gala. Diego has expressed his enthusiasm for participating in this event, “it is a great honour for me to participate in the first edition of the Charity Gala Dinner at what is now my home, Higuerón Resort, with what I do best, cooking. It is with this that I want to do my bit for this cause.”

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Photo: Facebook / Echoes of The Beatles

Torre-Rock

A Hard Day’s Night Marbella Kevin Fraser Park GET ready for a night of timeless classics and iconic tunes as Echoes of The Beatles tribute band, takes the stage at the prestigious La Sala Live Lounge in Marbella on Tuesday March 19. Step back in time and relive the magic of The Beatles with an electrifying performance that captures the essence of the Fab Four. Immerse yourself in the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll as they flawlessly recreate the legendary sound and energy that made The Beatles a global phenomenon. Their extensive legacy of remarkable songs and performances in the field of pop revolutionised the musical landscape of the time. The Beatles’ influence endures to this day. The band Echoes of The Beatles, is made up of musicians from the Costa del Sol, including Mark Connor (John Lennon), John Maddocks (Paul McCartney), Ron Howells (George Harrison) and Mark Bailey (Ringo Starr). Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of music, nostalgia, and pure entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to sing along to your favourite hits and experience the spirit of The Beatles like never before. This is a musical journey you won’t want to miss - grab your friends, get your tickets, and let The Echoes of The Beatles transport you back to the era of Beatlemania. Don’t ‘Let it be’ to reserve your spot to ‘Twist and Shout’ in Marbella, ‘Get Back’ to La Sala on: 952 814 145 or via email: reservations@LaSalaBanus.com

Michael Carrington THE 30th edition of the international Rockin’ Race Jamboree festival will bring nearly 40,000 people to Torremolinos, twice as many as last year. The event will feature top artists and bands such as ‘Reverend Horton Heat’, Linda Gail Lewis and ‘Los Sirex’ and continues until February 4.

Torremolinos will once again become the world capital of rock and roll with this leisure and cultural event which will mean the opening of hotel establishments in La Carihuela and an increase in occupancy of 60 per cent during the days of the festival, 20 per cent more than the previous edition. Mayor of Torremolinos, Margarita del Cid, said at Fitur that “Rockin’ Race Jamboree is the first major international event of the year in our town, and remains the key to this paradise to stop having high season and low season.” Guillermo Jiménez,

Photo: Torremolinos Town Hall

event director, said that, “This year the Rockin’Race Jamboree has gone beyond the limits. People are coming from all over the world, because rock ‘n’ roll knows no frontiers.”

A total of 42 bands, most of them international, complete the line-up of the Rockin’ Race Jamboree.

Rock and roll artists and bands such as ‘Reverend Horton Heat’, Linda Gail Lewis or ‘Los Sirex’, among

many others, will perform on the different stages prepared for this edition.

The Plaza del Remo will be the stage for the performances on February 3, from midday to 6pm and on February 4 from midday to 4pm. Also, in the same square, the ‘Classics on wheels Costa del Sol’ will be held on February 3 from 11am to 4pm where there will also be music and food trucks.

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Drama Festival Circus of Horrors Photo: circodeloshorrores.com

Kevin Fraser Park EL CIRCO de los Horrores (Circus of Horrors) is preparing its sixth instalment, ‘Requiem, Final Symphony’, a journey into the past with a glimpse of the present and leaving the future in new hands. Now it is in Malaga until Sunday, February 11 at the Malaga fairgrounds. Shows are on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm; on Fridays at 9.45pm; on Saturdays at 6.30pm and 9.45pm and on Sundays at 5pm and 8.15pm. Tickets are available online from the website: circodeloshorrores.com.

Its world premiere was on September 6, in Alicante, and it has been performed in various Spanish cities before beginning its international tour where more than 3,000,000 spectators have seen the shows.

‘Requiem, Final Symphony’ takes us back and rediscovers those ancient places that have shaped in time this delirious universe of the Circus of Horrors. Suso Silva introduces us to his alter ego Suso Clown, the main character who creates, builds and develops through his scripts and his old typewriter the delirious universe of the Circus of Horrors.

Suso Silva, winner of the 2003 National Circus Prize, awarded by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport, fuses theatre, contemporary circus and cabaret like no other, in shows charged with equal parts terror and humour.

Circus of Horrors was born in 2006 with the commitment to conceive an original, different, innovative circus show with a clear purpose: that young audiences would recover the interest they had had as children in the circus. A show that brings a breath of fresh air to the Spanish circus scene.

GIBRALTAR CULTURAL SERVICES (GCS), has announced the programme for the 2024 Gibraltar International Drama Festival that will be held from Monday to Saturday March 11 to 16.

All performances will take place at the Ince’s Hall Theatre as follows: Monday March 11 at 7pm, Bayside & Westside Drama Group presents: ‘William & The World’, a Children’s Play by Julian Felice Theatre Makers presents: ‘My Second Best Bed, a Light Drama by Barry Syder Tuesday March 12 at 7pm, Bayside & Westside Drama Group presents: ‘All Of Us’, a Feminist Ensemble Piece by Julian Felice Theatre Makers presents: ‘Bull’, a Black Comedy

by Mike Bartlett Wednesday March 13 at 7pm: ‘The almost complete works of William Shakespeare’, a Comedy by The Reduced Shakespeare Company GAMPA presents: ‘What I (Don’t) Know About Autism’, a Dramedy by Jody O’Neill Thur-

sday March 14 at 7pm, The Magazine Studio Theatre presents: ‘For the Love Of’, a Black Comedy by Hannah Mifsud Westside School Gibraltar presents: ‘Medusa’, a Serious Drama Performance in the style of Physical Theatre by Eva de Vincenzi, Ayla Santos Pizarro, Rodrigo Ribeiro, Chloe Read and Anna Richardson MCSL Company presents: ‘On the Dotted Line’, a Comedy/Drama by A. P. Chekhov Friday March 15 at 7pm Gibraltar College BTEC Acting presents: ‘The Trial (An Extract)’, a Drama by Steven Berkoff ‘Noses Off ’, a Farce/Comedy by Don Zolidis ‘Fanboy’, a Drama by Joe Sellman-Leave Saturday March 16 at 7pm Gala Night: the Festival Gala Night will include the top two plays as well as the overall winner.

Tickets for the festival are on sale now via buytickets.gi. For more information, please contact GCS’ Events Department via Email info@culture.gi or call 20067236.

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A WOMAN will participate for the first time in the Benalmadena Drag Queen Gala.

Benalmadena is ready to celebrate the 23rd edition of its Drag Queen Gala, which will take place on Friday February 2 at 9.30pm in the Plaza de la Mezquita and which each year attracts audiences from all over the country. This year there will be 18 drag queens who will give their all in their performances and fill the town with colour, glamour and fantasy, with the novelty that, for the first time, a woman will take part in the competition for the title of ‘Drag Queen of the Year’. The event is set against the backdrop of the circus world and, as usual, opens the doors to Carnival in Benalmadena.

It will be presented by Javier Boxó, who will be accompanied by Sofía Cristo and, according to Boxó, “many of these participants will be performing for the first time at this gala.”

The presenter said that he had, “a waiting list, due to the large number of Drag Queens who wanted to participate, being a total of 18 for this edition,” adding that this year, “for the first time we have a Drag girl.” The gala is a free event that only calls for people to come, have fun and have a magical time.

Photo: Cirque du Soleil

A real queen Alegría new dates

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL has extended its stay in Malaga with new performances of Alegría. Tickets for the extra dates are available for Cirque du Soleil’s most iconic production, which will be presented in the Big Top at the Malaga Fairgrounds now from May 31 until June 30. Thanks to the warm public reception they received after announcing the return to Malaga in 2024, Cirque du Soleil has announced that it is extending its stay with Alegría, its most iconic production, which is being reinvented for a new generation to fall in love with this show and for its long-time lovers to continue to love it as they did on the very first day. With Alegría, Cirque du Soleil will be touring the country continuously for almost 12 months in 2024. Along with Malaga; Barcelona (from March 20), Alicante (from July 16), Sevilla (from September 28) and Madrid (from December 4), will be the other cities where you can enjoy this iconic show by the Canadian company. First premiered in 1994, Alegría has become one of Cirque du Soleil’s most beloved shows, and has now captivated more than 14 million spectators in 255 cities in 40 countries in more than 19 years of touring. Its Grammy-nominated soundtrack, which included the iconic song of the same name, remains Cirque du Soleil’s best-selling and most-played album to date.

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Charity Concert Kevin Fraser Park ON Thursday February 22 at 7.30pm at the Palacio de Congresos of Marbella there is a Charity Concert with the violinist, Anastasiya Petryshak. Tickets are €35 (children under 13 get free admission) with all the proceeds from tickets sales donated to help Ukrainian orphans and children with disabilities in the Kyiv region.

To mark the tragic anniversary of two years since the start of the war in Ukraine, Anastasiya Petryshak returns following her stirring performance last year. Anastasiya takes centre stage to repeat her triumphant performance. Anastasiya Petryshak shines as a prime embodiment of Ukrainian talent.

At the age of five, she embarked on her violin journey and by the time she reached 20 years of age, she was taking to the stage in Italy to perform her solo

Photo: Anastasiya Petryshak

debut. It is a testament to her rising fame that she recently played two nights with the legendary Andrea Bocelli at the WiZink Center in Madrid.

Both nights were sold out, with over 15,000 people in attendance each night. The event is hosted by the TulSun Foundation, which has been supporting Ukrainian orphans and the disabled for over six years with much-needed health, educational and future care. Last year’s compassion symphony raised

an astonishing €14,300, allowing the TulSun Foundation to offer solace and brighter days for even more war-affected children. Concert funds helped children at the Fastiv Training and Rehabilitation Centre and provided vital shelter equipment.

The goal this year is to raise €20,000 which would fund an annual rehabilitation course for children with disabilities in the Kyiv region as part of the ‘Kids & Abilities’ project. Tickets from universe.com.

Music Lovers

EXCITING news for music lovers, this Valentine’s Day, get ready for a magical evening at Alhaurin Golf as they present the internationally acclaimed singer Gary Scott.

Gary, who has shared the stage with stars like Ed Sheeran and Leona Lewis, is all set to enchant you on this special day. In his role as musical director with the international touring show ‘Art on ice’ Gary Scott has performed in front of over half a million people as band leader, guitarist, and vocalist with Donna Summer, Nelly Furtado, The Jacksons, Mick Hucknall and many others.

Enjoy a luxurious three-course menu in an elegant ambiance, complemented by a welcoming glass of Cava and a selection of

Photo: Gary Scott Music

38 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

fine wine and beer throughout the evening.

All this for just €45.

February 14 isn’t just about love, it’s about an unforgettable night of music and dining which starts at 8pm. Book your table now for a romantic and musical Valentine’s Day, call 951 550 000 or email eventos@a lhauringolf.com.

Ocean Collection

Photo: Benalmadena Town Hall

BENALMADENA is hosting a unique exhibition by Manuel Fernández that blends fashion, art and sustainability at the La Costa exhibition centre. The exhibition called ‘Ocean Collection by Manuel Fernández’, is open to the public free of charge from now

until March 31. Councillor for Culture, Jésica Trujillo, gave details of this exhibition, which includes striking creations for the public, ranging from a mermaid standing guard over a waste-free ocean to details inspired by seaweed and the seabed.

Creations such as that of Alfonso Cruz, who uses the underwater technique to paint live underwater scenes, or work by photographer Ouka Leele, ‘Drops of Blood, which stands as a metaphor for the warming of the oceans, representing a serious environmental concern with drastic consequences for marine life.

SOCIALSCENE II euroweeklynews.

1 - 7 February 2024

James BOND Michael Carrington THE Benahavis Arts Society is holding a lecture on Tuesday February 27 at Hugo Investing in urbanisation La Carolina in Marbella by Jeremy Black, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of Exeter. The subject is James Bond and Ian Fleming.

After Churchill, James Bond is the most iconic Brit of the last century and, together with Star Wars, the most successful film franchise. Drawing on his two books on Bond and his book on the Cold War, Jeremy Black looks at how Fleming created an agent for the Cold War and how that role subsequently changed. The relationships between Fleming Bond the Cold War and British politics are considered.

So also with the development of the film franchise in terms of Anglo

Photo: Flickr CC / Greg Bishop

American relations and American concerns. The illustrated talk extends to the social and moral politics of sex, gender, class and race. Black is a prolific lecturer and writer, the author of over 100 books. Many concern aspects of 18th century British, European and American political, diplomatic and military history, but he has also published on the history of the press, cartography, warfare, culture and on the nature and uses of history itself. Graduating from

Cambridge with a starred first, he did postgraduate work at Oxford, and then taught at Durham, eventually as professor, before moving to Exeter in 1996. He has lectured extensively in Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and the USA, where he has held visiting chairs at West Point, Texas Christian University, and Stillman College.

He was appointed to the Order of Membership of the British Empire for services to stamp design.

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Zumba Fiesta THERE’S a ‘back to the 80s’ Zumba fundraiser taking place on Saturday February 3 at 4pm at The Studio Elviria. Transport yourselves to the 80s with funky choreography and stylish outfits - it’s a blast from the past you won’t want to miss. And the best part? All proceeds go to Triple A, an amazing animal charity.

Your contributions in the form of money, dog food, bowls, or blankets are deeply appreciated. Zumba is a fitness programme that combines cardio exercise and Latin-inspired dance. It was founded by Colombian dancer and choreographer Beto

ENJOY the perfect Valentine’s Day on Wednesday February 14 with a romantic dinner with your loved one at La Scala Marbella.

Enjoy a glass of Prosecco on arrival, dine from a delicious set menu, including scallops, and other choices to start, maybe share a Beef Wellington for two or indulge yourselves with Lobster Thermidor plus many other options.

There will be live music on the night by ‘Mr Sinatra’ Martin Joseph singing Love Songs for all you romantics. Martin Joseph is the ultimate Frank Sinatra and Rat Pack Performer. Martin Joseph is rated as one of Europe’s top Rat Pack singers. His unique Frank Sinatra Tribute Show encompasses all of ‘Old Blue Eyes’ favourite tunes in a vibrant performance from start to finish. Hearing is truly believing, as Martin has Sinatra’s voice and moves down to a tee.

To make a reservation, call 951 569 362 or book online lascalamarbella.com.

Pérez in 2001, It is currently practised in 200,000 locations in 180 countries, with 15 million people taking classes weekly. It’s often described as a dance party rather than a workout, because participants are encouraged to move to the beat of the music. So, head to The Studio Elviria, dance for a cause and make a difference. Call 667 115 150 or check out the Facebook page to book your spot.

euroweeklynews.com II SOCIALSCENE Photo: Marbella Town Hall

40 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

Marbella parties Kevin Fraser Park CARNIVAL will take over the streets of Marbella and San Pedro Alcantara during the month of February with a programme of activities full of colour, music and fancy dress. The councillor for Festivities, Yolanda Marín, launched the programme of events and encouraged citizens to participate in these festivities which, this year, will bring back the carnival group competition, to be held from February 13 to 16. The councillor also unveiled the poster announcing the Marbella Carnival, chosen by popular vote from more than 50 proposals from 20 Spanish provinces and even from as far away as Mexico.

The Marbella festivities will kick off on February 11 with the children’s opening speech in the Parque de La Represa (12.00 noon), given by Rocío Gil; the election of the Venus, Nymphs and Dios Momo by lottery among the attendees followed

by entertainment. From February 13 to 15, the children’s chirigotas (street performers) competition will also take place in the Adolfo Suárez Conference and Exhibition Centre. The winning group will participate in the final of the adult category, scheduled for February 16 at the Teatro Ciudad de Marbella.

Meanwhile, on Saturday February 17, the parade will begin at 5pm, starting from Avenida Ricardo Soriano, followed by entertainment on the stage located on Avenida Nabeul and performances in the Parque de la Represa at 8.30pm. In San Pedro Alcantara the festivities will take place from February 9 to 11. On February 10 it will be the turn of the parade, which will run between Avenida Virgen del Rocío and the Plaza de la Iglesia. The culmination will be on Sunday February 11, from midday on the boulevard, with musical performances by local groups.

FREE KIDZ PARTY AND YOU’RE INVITED ADVERTISING FEATURE KIDZ ZONE, the newest kids’ play centre in Alhaurin el Grande, is set to delight children and parents alike with its exciting array of play zones and amenities. Having opened its doors on Monday, January 29, Kidz Zone offers five distinct play areas designed to cater to different interests and age groups.

From the Sports Zone for little athletesin-training to the cosy Baby Zone for the tiniest tots, there’s something for everyone. The Soft Play Zone promises hours of laughter and exploration, while the Dress-up Zone sparks imaginative play. Meanwhile, the Gaming Zone offers a modern twist on traditional play centres.

At just €5 for 90 minutes of playtime, Kidz Zone provides affordable entertainment for families, open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm. Parents can relax and enjoy a snack from the new menu while their children immerse themselves in the fun-filled environment.

Excitement is building for Kidz Zone’s upcoming Grand Opening Party on Saturday February 3. All attending can expect free play sessions, menu tastings, and delightful surprises throughout the day.

For those looking to celebrate special occasions, Kidz Zone offers party packages with exclusive venue hire for three hours. Let us arrange your party, which includes playtime, food, entertainment, and even character visits, parents can rest assured knowing that every detail is taken care of. With beloved characters like Chase from Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse, and Elsa from Frozen available for meet-and-greets, Kidz Zone promises unforgettable memories for children of all ages. Whether it’s a casual playdate or a birthday bash, Kidz Zone is the ultimate destination for family fun in Alhaurin el Grande.

See our advert below for more info.

NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

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WITH the continual rise in grocery prices, navigating the supermarket without overspending is a challenge. Here are just a few tips on how to optimise your food expenses effectively.

An obvious one, but creating a family shopping list is crucial. By collectively deciding on necessary items, you can avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials. It’s vital to follow this list strictly, resisting the lure of unnecessary purchases.

Opting for store brands, often referred to as ‘white label’ products, can cut your grocery bill significantly. These products offer good quality at lower prices, with the potential of saving you around 35 to 45 per cent annually.

This doesn’t mean forgoing all premium brands, rather, it’s about identifying where brand choice truly matters. In cases where brand isn’t a key factor, switching to more affordable store brands

Credit: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

Shop smart spend less Spain’s longest wall

MAKE SAVINGS: Avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials.

can make a big difference.

The choice of supermarket can impact your budget substantially. The price difference for the same items can vary greatly among stores.

Avoid shopping on an empty stomach to resist impulse buys, especially unhealthy snacks. Always compare the cost per kilo or unit, rather than just the total price. This helps in identifying truly cost-effective options.

If you have ample storage, take advantage of bulk buying and special offers

like ‘buy one get one half price’ or ‘three for the price of two’ on items you regularly use.

Finally, make the most of loyalty programmes offered by supermarkets such as Carrefour, Dia, Consum, or Alcampo for additional discounts and savings.

Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your supermarket spending, leading to substantial savings over time. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.

WALLED cities are not uncommon in Spain, however, one of its most impressive and officially the longest in the country is tucked away near the border with Portugal.

Have you ever wondered about Spain’s longest wall? The answer lies not in famous sites like the walls of Lugo or Avila, but in the less well-known location of Badajoz, Extremadura.

This city, steeped in a history of border clashes with Portugal, hosts the continent’s most extensive fortification.

Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, Badajoz’s wall system epitomises an era marked by military innovation.

Influenced by the designs of French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre, Marquis of Vauban, these fortifications are a continuation of earlier defensive structures.

The initial walls, dating back to the ninth and 11th centuries, were erected by prominent Muslim leaders, including Ibn Marwan, Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman, and Abdullah Ibn el-Aftas.

The 17th century brought renewed focus on Badajoz’s defences, following Portugal’s independence in 1640. The city’s strategic position demanded an enhanced defensive system, leading to the construction of the ‘Baluarted Wall’.

Visitors to Badajoz can explore numerous bastions and gates along the wall.

Credit: Michael Newman/Creative Commons Attribution 3.0

The city wall of Alcazaba, Badajoz.

Among them, the 16th-century Puerta de Merida and the 1680 Trinity Gate showcase classicist designs and royal emblems.

Notable too are the 16th-century Puerta del Pilar and the 1460 Puerta de las Palmas, each displaying distinctive architectural elements. The wall’s bastions, such as San Pedro, Santa Maria, and San Vicente, highlight strategic points around the city.

The wall’s length and complexity, spanning approximately five kilometres, make it a remarkable and historically significant structure, second only to the wall of Pamplona in terms of perimeter.

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euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY

IN a recent study, experts at Harvard University pinpointed specific foods that could negatively impact brain function, particularly memory.

Harvard’s research highlights five particular foods to limit or avoid: • Added sugars: Excessive consumption may lead to memory deficiencies.

• Artificial sweeteners: These can increase harmful stomach bacteria, adversely affecting mood.

• Processed oils: High in Omega-6 fatty acids, they cause brain inflammation and damage to blood vessels.

• Fried foods: They have been identified as detrimental to memory.

• Ultra-processed foods: Excessive intake can shorten chromosome ends, potentially leading to degenerative diseases.

Conversely, certain foods are highly recommended for enhancing cognitive functions.

• Oily fish: Salmon, mac-

Credit: Ruslan Huzau/Shutterstock.com

Brain-boosting

BRAIN HEALTH: Some foods can affect your memory.

kerel, tuna, and sardines, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA, regulate neuronal function and improve information storage in the brain.

• Nuts and seeds: Macadamia nuts, almonds, pistachios, and walnuts, known for reducing dementia and Alzheimer’s risks.

• Spinach: Loaded with folic acid and vitamin E, it not only reduces tumours and cancer cells but also slows neuronal ageing.

• Red fruits: Strawberries, blackberries, currants, and

blueberries are rich in flavonoids and fisetin, enhancing memory and various cognitive functions.

• Eggs: Containing vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid, help prevent cognitive decline.

• Dark chocolate: In moderation, its flavonoids and antioxidants bolster brain health.

• Green tea: Known for fat-burning properties, it also enhances brain health. by stimulating concentration and blocking sleep-inducing adenosine.

Podiatry AT the El Campanario Clinic we give you the help you need so much for the health of your feet.

Regardless of the type of problem or condition. In our Medical Centre in Calahonda you can receive the service of general, child, sports, work, preventive and geriatric podiatry.

Avenida de España 20, Local 5, Sitio de Calahonda, Malaga. +34 952 933 377

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

Supplements MAINTAINING optimal health often involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sometimes, the right supplements.

Multivitamins are a popular choice, offering a comprehensive range of essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing from your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are crucial for heart and brain health, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin D is another key supplement, especially for those with limited sun exposure, supporting bone health and immune function. Probiotics are beneficial for gut health, aiding in digestion and boosting the immune system.

Lastly, magnesium is often overlooked but vital for muscle function, sleep regulation, and stress management. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, as needs can vary based on individual health conditions and lifestyles.

1 - 7 February 2024

Luscious lips

ACHIEVING luscious, healthy lips is a combination of good care practices and mindful habits. Firstly, hydration is key; drinking plenty of water ensures your lips remain moisturised from the inside out.

Regularly using a hydrating lip balm, especially one with SPF, protects and nourishes the delicate skin of the lips.

Exfoliation is also important; gently scrubbing your lips with a sugar scrub once a week removes dead skin cells, revealing smoother lips.

Avoid licking your lips as

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WELL-BEING: Early habits set a foundation for the future.

ATTRACTIVE LIPS: Just in time for Valentine’s Day.

saliva can dry them out. Incorporating vitamins A, C, and E in your diet supports skin health, benefiting your lips too. Lastly, choose lip products wisely - opt for those with hydrating

WAXING is a popular hair removal method that offers several benefits over other techniques like shaving or hair removal creams.

Firstly, waxing removes hair from the root, resulting in a smoother finish and a longer period of hairlessness, typically lasting three to six weeks. This method also exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving the area feeling softer and more rejuvenated.

ingredients and avoid those with alcohol or allergens that can cause dryness.

These simple, effective steps can help maintain soft, attractive lips yearround.

To wax or not?

Over time, regular waxing can lead to finer and sparser hair regrowth, as the hair follicle weakens. Additionally, waxing reduces the risk of cuts and nicks that can occur with shaving, and avoids the harsh chemicals present in some hair removal creams, making it a safer option for sensitive skin.

Quality of life TAKING your health seriously from a young age is pivotal for long-term well-being.

Early habits set the foundation for future health, impacting how we age physically and mentally. Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep are crucial.

These habits help in building strong bones, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart di-

sease, and some cancers.

Additionally, mental health is equally important; managing stress, fostering social connections, and seeking help when needed are essential for emotional resilience.

Young adults who prioritise their health are also more likely to carry these positive habits into later life, ensuring not just a longer lifespan, but a more vibrant and fulfilling one. The choices made in youth can profoundly influence overall quality of life in the years to come.

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euroweeklynews.com II HEALTH & BEAUTY

Valentine nails VALENTINE’S Day is the perfect occasion to express your style and affection through creative nail designs.

This year’s trends em-

brace a mix of classic and contemporary looks. The quintessential red and pink hues remain popular, offering a timeless romantic appeal.

For a more subtle elegance, nude bases with delicate heart accents or fine line art add a touch of whimsy. Glitter and metallic finishes can add a glamorous sparkle, perfect for a special evening.

For those seeking a modern twist, geometric patterns or negative space designs incorporating Valentine motifs offer a chic alternative. Whatever your preference, Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to showcase your personality and celebrate love through your nail artistry.

Celebrate love in style.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

A healthy active lifestyle So many of us move to Spain for a better life in the sun AT home, occasionally going out once a week to then very quickly adapting to the Spanish Mediterranean lifestyle, cañas in the afternoon, bread and olive oil, dining out and it very quickly turns into a daily occurrence, instead of a once a week occasion. As the weeks and months pass by you start to notice your shape changing, feeling a little more sluggish, but it’s so easy to do as it’s your social life too.

However, having these habits in the long term is also not great for our health. I was that person who drunk at least four times a week, I was a social person and the only meetings were for in a bar for drinks. I ate out daily, and this put me at a weight of 91kgs at only 161cms, that’s classed as obese and border line diabetic. Now after having children and changing my lifestyle around to become more healthy, so I can live as long as I can for my kids and as healthy as I can, I have realised how many people want a healthy active lifestyle living here and it is possible, it’s all about learning a good

Visit the Life Lounge, Fuengirola.

healthy balance and finding different ways to socialise out of the pub. We are spoilt for choice of places to eat and eat healthier too.

Through finding a social circle that have a similar lifestyle goal, I have truly met some incredible people and I am so passionate and love to have a huge part in helping people to create the lifestyle balance and not feel they are missing out.

If you are feeling a little stuck and ready to make some changes, please reach out, I own and run The Life Lounge Nutrition Club in Fuengirola centre. I am offering you a free body Scan and Wellness evaluation and a no obligation chat. This is worth €50.

Contact me, Jade Lawler 628 604 446

HEALTH & BEAUTY II euroweeklynews.com

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THE fight against Alzheimer’s has had a recent breakthrough with the announcement of a new blood test.

This innovative procedure, developed in Sweden, has shown remarkable potential in identifying Alzheimer’s disease up to 15 years before symptoms appear.

The findings, revealed in a Swedish study and published in the Jama Neurology journal, highlight a blood test as accurate as lumbar punctures in detecting Alzheimer’s.

The study was conducted by Dr Nicholas Ashton and his team at the University of Gothenburg. It involved 786 participants and promises a significant shift in early diagnosis.

This revolutionary test measures p-tau217 pro-

Credit: LightField Studios/Shutterstock.com

Alzheimer’s test

NEW TEST: Can detect the likelihood of Alzheimer’s.

tein levels in the blood, indicating Alzheimer’s-related brain changes.

It classifies patients’ likelihood of having Alzheimer’s disease as high, intermediate, or low. This categorisation could eliminate the need for more invasive tests, according to Prof David Curtis, honorary professor at UCL Ge-

Hand sanitiser IN our daily lives, hand sanitiser plays a crucial role in promoting health and hygiene. Its primary benefit is the ability to quickly and effectively kill a wide range of potentially harmful microorganisms on hands.

This is particularly important in situations where soap and water are not readily available.

Regular use of hand sanitiser can significantly reduce the spread of germs, including those that cause illnesses such as colds, flu, and gastrointestinal infections.

By using hand sanitiser, especially after touching public surfaces or before eating, you can protect yourself and others from these common ailments. Additionally, it’s a convenient, portable solution for maintaining hand cleanliness, supporting a healthier community and lifestyle.

Promoting healthy hygiene.

netics Institute, University College London.

xxxxx

The introduction of this test could lead to a nationwide screening program for individuals over 50. Prof Curtis mentioned, “It is possible that currently available treatments for Alzheimer’s disease would work better in those diagnosed early in this way.”

He also expressed optimism about developing more effective treatments. The amalgamation of a simple screening test and an effective treatment could have a profound impact on society.

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euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SVENSK HEMSERVICE PROPERTY SVENSK HEMSERVICE are a company, located in Fuengirola, that cares about each and every one of their clients. They offer a high level of personal engagement and a value for all customers, whether their requests be small or large. They cater for many nationalities and are accustomed to helping people from all over the world find, and love, their new life in Spain. Svensk Hemservice are fluent in Swedish, English and Spanish.

However, this Swedish home assistance company can actually do much more than just help you manage the tasks of daily life and to perfect the household, they can also start by finding you your perfect home, right here on the sunny coast of Spain. Johan is the co-owner of the company and an experienced property expert who manages all of the Svensk Hemservice real estate procee-

dings. He has recently created his own unique application that can be downloaded onto your smartphone which has been designed especially for buyers and renters that are interested in the Costa del Sol area.

He has many years of practical experience in the real estate industry and is committed to finding the perfect fit for each and every one of his clients. Svensk

Hemservice will assist you throughout the entire process of buying your new home, from finding a property that suits your unique needs, to purchasing, and complete management of local taxes, not forgetting of course the best part, moving in!

They provide their clients with the essential local contacts regarding lawyers and banks with whom they have extremely good

relations and experiences. Svensk Hemservice will ensure that you get settled in your new home in the sun as quickly and smoothly as possible. They take care of all the hard work and hassle, so that you can focus on the important thing: enjoying your new dream life in Spain.

They can also help you to find properties to be rented for a short or longer periods, in order to try out living everyday life on the beautiful Costa del Sol before deciding to buy a property here, and moving out permanently.

Svensk Hemservice have a wide network of contacts and properties on the coast, alongside a deep and thorough understanding of the current real estate figures and trends in the area. Their committed staff possess the language and personal skills needed to ensure you get the best possible deal on your new home.

To take the first step to a new adventure on the Costa del Sol, or for any more information on the services Svensk Hemservice can offer, contact Johan on +34 622 664 237 and have a chat today about how he can assist you in any of your real estate needs. Alternatively, email Johan at johan@svenskhemservice.com.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet property expert Johan

EURO WEEKLY NEWS sat down with the man behind the magic of the Svensk Hemservice real estate service. Johan is originally from Sweden and has been living on the Costa del Sol for a number of years working in the real estate business. Johan is not only committed to providing an impeccable property finding experience, but he is also deeply passionate about his work too.

Johan explained to EWN that he has been working in real estate for many years and specialising in the Costa del Sol area since 2019. He stated that: “I am lucky, because I can help people find their dream home, to start a new life. Each time that I succeed at this it means that I not only reached my goal, but also my client’s too. I am

JOHAN: “I can help people find their dream home.”

grateful that I get the opportunity to meet new people and learn about them, at the same time learning how to help my clients even better. I believe we can always become better as people and as real estate agents.”

We asked this real estate expert what makes the Costa del Sol area so special in terms of buying a property. Johan explained that: “The market in Costa del Sol is special because it covers a lot of land, and people from all over the world find themselves living or wanting to live here. You can always find your place, either at the beach or in the mountains or in a city, and the properties are from one bedroom apartments to a mansion or a big farm inland.”

Another question that many are surely curious about, is whether or not this is a good time to buy, and what the coast can

expect from Costa del Sol’s property market in 2024. He told us, “Yes, during 2024 we can expect the market to point upwards, especially down here on the coast and many people are always looking for a great property in the area.”

Finally, we asked Johan what advice he would give to anyone who wants to buy a home in Spain but does not know where to start. He said his best advice would be: “Think about what you need in terms of size, easy access, views and whether you are looking to be close to the airport or other public transport services.

“You also need to think about if you are looking for a holiday home, investment or to a new start in life.

Concentrate on one area, or it will be too much input. Go on holiday and get a feel for different places, and since the market is fluent don’t go looking at a property until you are ready to buy, otherwise it will be gone next time you come here.”

Johan (+34) 622 664 237 johan@svenskhemservice.com www.svenskhemservice.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

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euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE

• News Across The Regions • Costa Blanca South Pink Harmony

Costa Blanca North Good Luck, Lee

Axarquia Nordic events

Almeria Make lemonade

Mallorca Giants and Big Heads

Costa Calida Join Mabs

JOIN the celebration at La Zenia Boulevard on February 3 from 12.00 - 16.00 for a fun-filled day of music, art, and solidarity in support of those battling cancer.

Starting with a live broadcast by Radio Sunshine, the event will feature performances by several musicians and singers, with timeless classics to contemporary hits.

At 3.00pm, a minute of silence will be observed to honour all those who have faced the battle against cancer.

Every donation or purchase contributes to raising vital funds in support of the fight against cancer.

Don’t miss this special day where music, dance, and solidarity come together to create ‘Pink Harmony’, leaving a positive impact.

LOS NÓRDICOS Almuñecar is gearing up for yet another exciting excursion on the third Saturday in February to Nigüelas, nestled under the majestic Sierra Nevada rocks. This outing promises a picturesque journey along Acequias, where members can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of almond blossoms.

Los Nórdicos Almuñecar fosters a sense of community among its members. From cultural outings to adventurous trips, the group offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests. To stay updated on their upcoming events and enjoy the perks of membership, be sure to visit their Facebook page. Embrace the camaraderie and shared experiences that make being part of Los Nórdicos Almuñecar a truly special experience.

ON Saturday January 27, there was a gathering of Giants in Palma with examples arriving from some 14 different municipalities and suburbs of the city.

Each group brought with them their own pipers (xeremiers) and the parade started at 10am with each collection of Giants setting off towards the Plaza de Cort.

There have been records of Giants in Palma since 1734 but those made to look human first appeared 1904 when Palma Council commissioned ceramicist La Roqueta de Palma to create Tofol and Bet-Maria who made regular appearances in festivals until 1936, when they became unlikely casualties of the Civil War. There is no doubt that the Giants are well respected in Mallorca.

LEE HARKER has taken on a new and more ambitious challenge to support the AKIRA Dog Sanctuary in Benissa.

Having successfully raised €10,000 by completing a 240km walk from Moraira to Valencia and back, Lee has now set his sights on a 500km trek from Barcelona to Moraira.

The journey kicked off on January 29 and is scheduled to wrap up on February 10, spanning a total of 12 days.

Lee’s fundraising target for this endeavour is €20,000, with all donations going directly toward supporting AKIRA and the well-being of the dogs under their care.

Expressing gratitude for every contribution, Lee underscores that no donation is too small. To make a donation, visit the website: www.akira-animals.

STORIES of kindness stand out in the chaos of the world news.

Angie Grenter found her dream home in Mojacar 12 years ago. Her latest visit was to celebrate her 65th birthday. Unfortunately, she found herself feeling quite ill, and shared the information on her Facebook page.

Angie took a walk to get some fresh air, and when she got back there were the biggest lemons she had ever seen lying on her doorstep, with a note attached saying ‘get well soon, from Christine’.

She eventually found out it was someone she had met in 2017. She won’t make lemonade: it will be lemon drizzle cake. A small gesture can make a big difference.

MABS Mazarron, is a non-profit organisation which stands as a beacon of hope for individuals dealing with the challenges of cancer. MABS Mazarron is on a mission to extend its services, and it urgently needs compassionate individuals to join its volunteer force.

Even if people can only spare a few hours a week, that contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those diagnosed with cancer in your community. MABS Mazarron is actively seeking volunteers for diverse roles, including drivers, carers, van crews, fundraisers, and shop workers.

If you’re ready to lend a helping hand and be part of a cause that truly matters, reach out to them at mazvolunteers@mabscancerfoundation.

FEATURE/NEWS II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

A NEW era has begun for electric scooter enthusiasts. But what exactly does this mean for the future of urban mobility?

As from January 22, electric scooters sold in Spain must possess a certification to legally operate on the streets.

This move by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) aims to uphold minimum safety and quality standards. Notably, scooters sold before this date can still be used without certification until January 22, 2027.

What does it take for a scooter to be certified?

First and foremost, they must have a speed indicator and two independent brakes.

These scooters, defined as Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), are single-seat, wheel-based transports powered solely by electric motors.

Their maximum speed is capped between six and 25 km/h. If the scooter

Credit: tovsla/Shutterstock.com

Clampdown on scooters

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS: Speed control is now crucial.

is fitted with a seat or saddle, it must also have a self-balancing system.

Speed control is crucial.

The scooter’s motor will cease to propel the vehicle once it reaches 25 km/h.

Additionally, an anti-tampering system is mandatory, preventing any modifications to increase speed.

Visibility and safety are enhanced with required indicators for speed and battery level. Reflectors are a must: white at the front, white or auto-ye-

llow on the sides, and red at the rear. The brake light should be distinct or combined with the rear light.

Furthermore, there is a stipulation for minimum wheel diameter, and tyres which must have tread for better traction.

Scooters are not permitted on crossroads, interurban roads, highways, or through urban tunnels. pavement usage in cities is also prohibited. As recognised vehicles, their drivers must adhere to all traffic regulations.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Prepared for changes OFFICIALS have confirmed Andalucia is experiencing its longest drought since 1961. The drought started almost eight years ago, in 2016. Although, the recent rain has brought some relief to us all, the local authorities say we still need much more. “The rain of recent days has not changed the situation of the reservoirs and if it does not rain, we will have to have water cuts in March on the Costa del Sol,” warned Manuel Cardeña; the president of the public consortium of municipalities on the western coast.

This will involve changes to the supply of ‘mains’ water, with reductions and decrease of pressure, which will be devastating to businesses that have not taken the precautions for such an eventuality.

The International School Estepona has invested in a 2,000 litre water tank and automatic pumping equipment, that will function when it detects lack of water from the main supply.

This ensures that the school can operate normally and continually, guaranteeing that health and safety at ISE is upheld, for example the flushing of toilets and hand washing, alongside other

ISE: The school can operate normally.

cleanliness necessities.

When the water supply is used, the tank will automatically refill for next time.

It has been recommended that all schools and educational centres, should seriously consider installing such equipment urgently, for the well-being of their children and staff members.

Thus, ‘The International School Estepona’ is being proactive and is prepared and equipped for any changes that are implemented in the local and surrounding area.

marbellaschool.com

EWN 51

INTERVIEW

Johanna from Finland Johanna Pesonen’s sister has lived in Spain for over 20 years, so her whole family have always had one foot on the ground here and one foot still in Finland.

“THE weather is definitely the thing for me: here than in Finland is the bureaucracy, the sun and the relaxed atmosphere, things “I miss being able to do whatever I need that appealed far more than in my home online. Here you can lose an entire day in country. If we could have this clian office to sort out just one conmate in Finland, we would tract.” be overpopulated,” said Johanna visits FinJohanna. land whenever posJohanna Pesosible, “I have my nen is CEO of family there, I Fuengirola real have friends estate agency there and I will Huugo247 and always have has no regrets Finland as my about mohome country.” ving here, “if She went on to anything it has say, “In Finland only got clearer we wait nine that I may not be months every year able to ever move for the sun so we back,” she said. can emerge from our Johanna likes the outdoor life.

For her the best thing caves! Here, outside about living on the Cosactivities are available ta del Sol is the possibility to enjoy outside all year round.” life almost every day of the year. “I am more Looking to the future Johanna believes active in my free time here and have had she will stay here for the rest of her life. “Of more time for my family,” she added. course, you never know, but at the moment The only thing Johanna thinks is worse that’s how I feel,” she concluded.

52

euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024

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THE UK government has recently endorsed an innovative law, set to transform the handling of pet theft in the UK. The Pet Abduction Bill, championed by MP Anna Firth, introduces severe penalties for those convicted of pet theft, including up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.

Recent statistics from the Pet Theft Taskforce revealed alarming numbers, approximately 2,000 dog thefts and over 400 cat thefts were reported in 2020.

These figures highlight the significant emotional toll on both the owners and their pets, emphasising the need for stringent laws.

Given that 28 per cent of UK adults

Credit: Bachkova Natalia/Shutterstock.com

Protecting your pets

PET THEFT: New law to safeguard our pets.

have dogs and 24 per cent own cats, pet theft has become a pressing issue for the public.

Environment Secretary Steve Bar-

clay, empathising with pet owners, stated, “As a dog owner myself, I appreciate deeply what treasured members of the family dogs and cats are. It is a deeply traumatic experience for both the owner and the pet when they are stolen.

“This vital Bill will recognise the severity of this shocking crime and should act as a deterrent to anyone considering stealing a dog or cat. We will do all we can to support its swift passage through Parliament.”

This announcement is a continuation of broader efforts to safeguard pets, including mandatory microchipping for all cats and dogs. This measure aids in reuniting stolen or lost pets with their owners.

SERVICES II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

AIR CONDITIONING

CLEANING SERVICES

AWNINGS

DANCE CLASSES

CONSTRUCTION

DAMP PROOFING

DRAINS

ES

SHAD F O E AC

BUILDING SERVICES

GATES

MOTORING

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

LEGAL

EWN 53

54 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 PAINTERS & DECORATORS

euroweeklynews.com II SERVICES REMOVALS & STORAGE

SERVICES II euroweeklynews.com REMOVALS & STORAGE

WINDOWS

1 - 7 February 2024

EWN 55

CLASSIFIEDS AIR CONDTIONING AIR CONDITIONING by Cool and Cosy. The family company that cares. Installation and repairs. Quality machines.

Ecosense movement sensors supplied and fitted from 100 Euros. For other energy-saving products visit www. coolandcosy.es. 952 935 513.

We are Junta de Andalucia authorised installers as the new law states (real decreto 115/2017). On the Costa del Sol since 1993 (303640) Quality Air Conditioning Installations.

Economical heating, & silent in operation.

28 Years installation history in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered. 952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain.com (304164) MR COOL – Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Heating Systems, Sales & Service – Call Christian +34 629 527 587 or Nick +34 618 678 853 – www.mrcool.es (305074) AIR-CONDITIONING installations. Service & Repair to any make or model, commercial air conditioning, as well as Bar bottle coolers. Suppliers of catering equipment. All work guaranteed.

All areas covered including campo.

Contact Williams Refrigeration 952 596 404 / 679 284 959.

56

AIR CONDITIONING SERVICING

pulldown, pleated, colours call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (304439)

28 Years Servicing & Installing in Spain. EnviroCare. All Areas Covered.

952 663 141/670 409 759 info@envirocarespain. com www.envirocarespain.com (304164)

SOLAR BLINDS

AWNINGS ACE OF SHADES – All colours available. Urbanisations catered for, electric and manual operation; also recovery service available, largest selection of colours and designs on the coast. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades. design T1(101730)

SOLAR BLINDS ES Ideal for large glazed areas to reflect heat / glare and stop furniture fading and still keep the view. SAVE HEAT IN THE WINTER to improve your living environment. ian@ solarshadetinting.com Tel Ian 958 496 571 / 644 546 176

BUILDERS

BLINDS, awnings, mosquito screens, curtains, vast choice.

All areas covered. Coast and inland. 655 825 931 (303730) MOSQUITO

screens,

sliding,

PLUMBING & GENERAL BUILDING All your plumbing needs.

Bathroom, kitchens, tiling & painting.

Benalmadena based, travel no problem. Glen 669 073 773 or Paul 642 098 115 (304246)

of quality furniture. Top prices paid. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (304097)

CARS FOR SALE

JIM’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS. Bathrooms/kitchen reforms, repairs, plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, maintenance.

Give us a call no job too small.

692 207 799 / 645 559 423 (304610)

QUALITY renovation: Kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, windows, doors, plastering, Total property renovations info@ masterbuildspain.com 952663141 /670409759 Over 28 years renovating history in Spain (302479)

GENERAL BUILDER, Tiling, plastering, painting, electrician, plumber, carpentry. Reasonable prices. 635 913 885 (References available) (304615)

PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662) ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM Buyers & Sellers

CHARITY

CHIMNEY SERVICES CHIMNEY SWEEP. Clean reliable professional 608 377 497 (303436)

BUY & SELL HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS, FULL OR PART CLEARANCE. ALL FURNITURE WANTED, WE PAY MORE. TEL 634 324 914 OR EMAIL houseclearanceman@hotmail.com (303629)

Nueva Andalucia. Please send a WhatsApp message to 0039 335 376833 for enquries and list (305252)

COLLECTIVE CALLING are urgently requesting donations of clothing, homeware & furniture, so if you are having a House Clearance, Please call us for FREE COLLECTION. We sell good quality items, which then supports low-income families and the homeless in the community. These items can be dropped directly to our charity shop Tienda Solidaria: Av. Pablo Ruiz Picasso, 4, San Pedro de Alcantara, alternatively, call us to arrange collection on +34 711 006 961 (295137)

NEW REJAS, GATES, Carports & Fencing, repairs & alterations. Work Guaranteed. Reliable. 19yrs on Coast.

Steve the Welder. Call/WhatsApp 655 040 648 (304977)

BUILDING SERVICES

ACE OF SHADES - Vertical, Venetian, Roman, Roller, Wooden blinds, various colours available, also black-out blinds.

Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

SWINGLES CASAS SL. For all your building needs. Visit www. swinglescasas.com for more details or call 635 999 765 / 666 960 262 (303441)

METALWORK

SUNSHINE AWNINGS/BLINDS Awnings, Persiana, Shutter & Rejas Specialist. New & Repairs. 25yrs on the coast. 680 323 969 / 952 199 640 (304251)

BLINDS

1 - 7 February 2024

CAR HIRE

APEX CHIMNEY SERVICES, professional chimney sweeping and smoke testing. NACS Qualified. Clean and efficient Tel: Bob 696 320 202 (303700)

ALH RENT A CAR – SHORT & LONG-TERM RENTALS FROM €15 A DAY. INSURANCE INCLUDED IN OUR PRICES. TLF: 638 846 909 or reservasalhrentacar@gmail.com (303303)

BENALMADENA Elim Family Fellowship.

Elimfamilyfellowship. com or call 951 912 525 or 952 446 627. (10011)

ITALIAN high fashion labels for ladies size 10/12 all in immaculate condition mostly new or hardly ever worn.

If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161

CHURCH SERVICES

CLASSIFIEDS II euroweeklynews.com CALAHONDA: Encounter Church (Elim), Family church with kids’ activities, Iglesia San Miguel, Sundays 4.30pm, Rev. David Hodgson, 695 115 496 (10012) THE Ark Christian Church. We meet at The Ark Christian School, Calle Río Darro 2 y Plaza Juncal, 29651, Mijas Costa (the road behind the Mijas Aquapark) on Sundays at 11.00am.

Pastor, Andrew Seale Tlf 682 713 491 www.thearkspain.com (293850)

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE ADVANCED Cleaning Services.

Professional carpet, upholstery cleaning, 27 years experience, wet/ dry clean. Honest, reliable service 678 808 837 / 952 669 701 or email acservs@outlook.com (290189) UPHOLSTERY including leather cleaned also carpets. 685 524 921 (290189) STARLIGHT Property Cleaning & Maintenance. All types of cleaning. Any size of property. All Areas. Residential & Holiday Lets.

682 636451 www.starlight-spain. com (303728)

DECORATORS ATD DECOR. British Painter. 30 Years’ Experience. Punctual. Great Rates. Call for free quote. 602 431 968 Facebook: @ATDDecorMalaga (304784) RAINBOW PINTURAS. Spray painting, professional finish of kitchens, doors and furniture. All aspects of interior/ exterior paint and decorating under taken. Call/ Whatsapp: 628066308 www. rainbowpinturas.com. Facebook.

Instagram: rainbowpinturasmala ga (303387)

DOMESTIC APP REP DOMESTIC appliance repairs washing machines fridges cookers ovens water heaters gas electric professionally repaired 608 337 497 (303436)

DRAINAGE BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal, Tel 952 568 414 / 661 910 772 / drainspain.com (296441)

ELECTRICIAN ALL TYPES OF ELECTRICAL work, re-wiring, fault finding.

Certified, Reliable & Guarantee.

Frank Tel or Whatsapp 650 561 629 (304788)

FLOOR POLISHING MARBLE FLOOR (2.50€/m2) WHY PAY MORE. WE CLEAN, CRYSTALLISE, SEAL THEN POLISH YOUR MARBLE TO HIGH GLOSS, NON-SLIP. PROFESSIONAL GUARANTEED, FAST SERVICE. 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE. ALSO REPAIRS DAMAGES TO MARBLE, CLEAN AND SEAL TERRACOTTA TERRACES, COVERS ALL COSTA DEL SOL. TEL: 671 244 683 (303059)

MARBLE FLOORS polished high shine non-slip. Fast Service Reliable, family-run business. TERRACOTTA CLEANED and sealed. No job too small. Cleansol 10am – 10pm 7 days all areas. 952 930 861 / 607 610 578 Discount code: EWN 1 CLEAN (206437) MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALLISING, LASTING, HIGH SHINE. REGRINDING, RESTORATION OF SALTY, DEAD FLOORS. 27YRS EXPERIENCE. RELIABLE. REFS AVAILABLE. CYRIL. 645 840 199 (305107)

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

FURNITURE FURNITURE wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (304097)

GARDENING

IRRIGATION IRIS-IRRIGATION and landscapes.

TRENCHLESS NO DIG Irrigation installation, Cables, Fibre Optic, Electric & Lighting Cables. New Installations & problem-solving.

Turf (supply and laying). Garden constructions. Tree surgeon.

Clearing. Astro Turf (Free Quotation) 676 747 521 (303376)

GATE REPAIRS ELECTRIC GATE/GARAGE DOOR automation repaired. Free, no obligation quotation. Call Colin 636 394 641 (304223)

GATES ELECTRIC GATES/Garage Doors.

Intercoms/access control systems and replacement remotes. New installs and repairs. For all your electric gate and garage door requirements call us on 605 356 469/952 786 178. The Garage Door Co & 2 Way Gates. tgdc@hotmail.co. uk www.2waygates.com (302680)

GLASS CURTAINS GLASS CURTAIN repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (303730)

HANDYMAN HANDYMAN: General Building work, painting, wall/roof waterproofing & other jobs. Call Michael 622 755 666 (305164)

HEATING Fires: Electric, Gas. Quality guaranteed. EnviroCare. All areas covered. 952 663 141 / 670 409759. info@ envirocarespain.com www. envirocarespain.com (304164)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

VINYL WRAP VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors.

Turn a tired looking wood designed kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples. (303296)

HOT TUBS AND SPAS HOT TUBS new used, bought, sold, hired. Also move & repairs. Used good Hot Tubs for sale. 691 973 131 / +44 7836 379122 (304541)

HOUSE CLEARANCES ALHAURIN FURNITURE EMPORIUM furniture wanted, same day collection, also house clearance and removals. Also buy cars, campervans, boats & bikes. 697 511 071 (304097)

INSURANCE MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726) STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbeygateinsure.com

LOCKSMITHS ENGLISH LOCKSMITHS, SECURITY & SHADE EXPERTS. FREE HOME SECURITY SURVEY. 636 770 865 / 952 660 233 WWW.SECURITYOFSPAIN.COM CONTACT DAREN (303056) T1 ENGLISH LOCKSMITH emergency & appointment, locks changed, patio doors & windows secured. All locks supplied insurance approved. Fast &

BUSINESS FOR SALE

1 - 7 February 2024 reliable service. No hidden extras or nasty surprises. 657 466 803 www. a1locksmiths.es (290138)

MASSAGE RELAXING Massage for Men & Couples. Feel free from tension & stress Call Dany 603 202 758 (305218) SAN PEDRO. Sandra. Professional relaxing, tantric massage. Young, slim, work alone, unforgettable moments. Nueva Andalucia. 641 346 278 PURE RELAXATION in Nueva Andalucia with attractive independent masseuse. Tantric and other special massages in private apartment. For gentlemen and couples, with no rush attention to your needs 656 350 401 ENGLISH ELEGANT independent & affectionate lady in late 40s, gives a sensual golfers massage to relieve tension in her discreet private apartment. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call 680 177 569 (304543) MARBELLA CENTRE - the ideal place for relaxing massage in the city centre. Available 24h and prices from €50. For reservations and information call 620 366 817. (302600) PROFESSIONAL MALE muscled masseur. Full-body relaxing, deep tissue and therapeutic massage. In/ outcalls. WhatsApp me 607 595 906 (304067) BENALMADENA lovely lady, offering you a very relaxing body massage. Call for an appointment 634 209 427 (305219) FUENGIROLA. Japanese Shiatsu & Zen Ki relaxing and therapeutic massage. Excellent service guaranteed.

Home Visits.

WhatsApp for appointment 693 988 340 (304785) ESTEPONA. Susana, Latin Girl sculptural body, trained for deep relaxing massage. 697 705 304 (FU 2786) AT MY Wellness Massage Studio your first visit will be the first of many. Tel: +34 623 492 262 (304620) JAPANESE massage. Marbella.

Relaxing, less stress. 664 177 216 (MI 559)

EWN 57

MARBELLA Tantric ritual massage with aromatherapy to leave completely renewed. 642 751 070 (2907)

BENALMADENA: Sandra Spanish Masseur and Amalia - duo massage & relaxing. Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs.

Tel. 604 181 157 (305173)

NEW IN FUENGIROLA. I am Daniela, 19 years old, massages and relax. 603 366 841 (FU 3181)

ASIAN lady tantric sensory generate self esteem body technique, fantastic relaxation massage Marbella. 671 442 664

SARA Venezuelan, professional relaxing therapeutic & sensitive massage. I can visit you. For more information contact me 632 770 051 (303021) BENALMADENA Private Villa: DANIELA from Colombia 19yrs Masseur. New on the Coast. in C/ Imperio Argentina N.1 in Benalmadena. Incalls Outcalls 24hrs.

Tel. 679 267 197 (305173) BENALMADENA: IRINA Russian Masseur, model, slim, Russian, Spanish, English. Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (305173) BENALMADENA Masseur, massage, jacuzzi, outcalls 24hrs.

Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (305173) NEW IN FUENGIROLA. I am beautiful brunette Luna, treat yourself to massages and relaxation 603 366 841 (FU 3181) BENALMADENA: Maria Colombian Masseur - blond long hair, Incalls & Outcalls 24hrs. Tel. 604 181 157 (305173) BENALMADENA: Alicia Spanish professional & relaxing Masseur..

Incalls & Outcalls. 24hrs. Tel. 679 267 197 (305173) FILIPINA/Thai, exclusive prostatic, deep, hard, soft massage pleasure to body mind therapy, exotic professional relaxation, clean, good atmosphere. Elviria. Marbella. 604 457 672 (MI 576) FUENGIROLA Centre 3 beautiful girls enjoy with authentic beauties 603 366 841 (FU 3181) BOLICHES: Celina Https:// celina-16.jimdosite.com.

Elegant loving kind lovely delightful lady for educated very discreet, respectable gentleman. Unique relaxing moments, hot sensual massages, private quite place. Enjoy full deep complete, excellent treatment, special attention of your needs and total satisfaction.

Demanding impeccable hygiene.

Previous appointment 11am/6pm.

622 210 797 (FU 3180)

INSURANCE

NEW VILLA in Fuengirola. 4 masseuses. Total discretion. 632 018 105 (FU 3181) VANESSA Benalmadena excellent massage services. Relaxing & therapeutic. Home premises. Call me 624 811 098 (305190) ASIAN Touch try something different combination Oriental European, absolutely relaxing massage relief pain stress, luxury place. Marbella.

Elviria. 633 705 558 (MI 576) ASIAN MASSUER offers relaxing full body massage.

Home Visits. WhatsApp 641 980 066 for details (304011) OLGA Mature Masseure relaxing & sensitive. Outcalls & Incalls. 24 hrs. Marbella – Tel: 632 467 580 (304040) FUENGIROLA - Johanna Brazilian 45yrs Slim Mature Masseur. Relaxing Massages. Best relax guaranteed. Tel: 617.818.615 (305174) FILIPINO MASSAGE CENTRE, where hearts of Asian professional massage daily. 604 421 973 (MI 576) ASIAN PROFESSIONAL Massage, sensual, relaxing & therapeutic, to release tension & stress. Fuengirola.

Call 613 592 062 (304091) ASIAN ladyboy and gay, authentic professional/traditional massage therapy unique treatment, clean atmosphere. Marbella. 603 257 690 (MI 576) GENESIS blond explosive masseur, men and women, from Venezuela. 24 hours - outcall / incall - visa & amex Tel. 680 55 614 (304861) CASSIE. Mature English lady.

Discreet and clean. Fuengirola. 667 914 732 (FU 3031) BARBARA mature masseur educated 42yrs, private, 24hrs, Marbella. Tel 613 213 030 (304740) CRISTINA and MIA - duo masseurs on holiday in Marbella - infall & outcalls 24hrs - visa & amex - Tel. 680 55 614 (304861)

58 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024 ORIENTAL ladyboy pretty professional traditional, tantric massage relieving. Marbella. 604 428 812 (MI 576) THAI Benalmádena Costa.

Body-body full massages. Visits, hotels. Whatsapp 689 387 448 (MI 577) FUENGIROLA. Relaxing massage, Venezuelan Ladyboy masseuse Violeta. Chiropractor. 660 867 374 (FU 3182)

MOSQUITO Screens for windows, doors and a high-quality sliding patio door screen. All finishes available.

Quick service. All areas covered.

Call Julian 655 825 931 (303730) MOSQUITO screens, sliding, pulldown, pleated, colours, call Mosquito Nick 647 072 861 www.mosquitonick.ws (304439)

MOTORING

FUENGIROLA. Marisa, 38 years old, mature, all kinds of massages. Only WhatsApp. 631 659 408 (FU 3168) CASSIE. Mature English lady.

Discreet and clean. Fuengirola. 667 914 732 (FU 3169) LOS BOLICHES - Carolina Pretty Masseur, Slim 45yrs Relaxing Massage, Guaranteed relax - Tel: 634.703.111 (305174) WWW.LAILALYNCH1.COM. Heated pool, Jacuzzi and private bar. Inland private retreat with a full massage service. 662 913 428 (FU 3172) SAN PEDRO BEACH. RELAXING AND SENSITIVE MASSEUSES WELCOME YOU IN A PRIVATE AND DISCREET PLACE. YOUNG, PLEASANT. WITH APPOINTMENT. EASY, PRIVATE PARKING. 666 194 079 - 674 679 757. (305229) BENALMÁDENA. FRIENDLY attractive masseuse, relieve muscle tension. From 50€. 613 106 153 (FU 3177) SHAVING & Massage sensitive area by mature Japanese masseuse.

Fuengirola. 610 396 186 (FU 3183)

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

MOSQUITO SCREENS

CAMPER VANS, CARAVANS, MOBILE HOMES, BOATS AND ALL PLANT, DIGGERS, DUMPERS, MOTORBIKES, CARS AND COMMERCIALS WANTED. BEST PRICE PAID, CASH TODAY, ANY REGISTRATION WITH OR WITHOUT PAPERS. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 (290189) CARS, VANS, ANY RESGISTRATION, INSTANT CASH, FINANCE / EMBARGO UK OR SPANISH 685 524 921 (290189) CARS, VANS UK OR SPANISH BOUGHT FOR CASH. FREE COLLECTION IN SPAIN / UK. PLEASE CALL 678 808 837 OR 952 669 701 (290189)

FOR SALE

ACE OF SHADES - Don’t let the bugs get you! Available in enrollable, slider and pleated.

Large choice of colours including wood effect. Tel: 951 273 254 / 671 732 204 / info@aceofshades.design (101730)

LAWYERS

ROBERTSON CARS...would like to thank all of my past, present & future clients for their continued support over the last 35 years here in Spain. Stay safe and outdrive everyone. If contacting Samantha in the afternoons, please only Whatsapp on 608 658 785 or Email therobertsonclan@gmail.com as I am driving mostly & unable to take your calls.

ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE AUTOMACTIC / DIESEL MERCEDES C220 ESTATE 2013 ONLY 82,000KMS Yes Approx.

50,000 Miles. Electric Big Sunroof, this is no ordinary Mercedes this is my own much loved super Good Looking.

euroweeklynews.com II CLASSIFIEDS Striking Shade of Grey Mercedes, New ITV till Augugst 2024 ,Sat Nav, Electric Everything, Parking Sensors, Fabulous Air-con, Samantha´s Hot Bargain WAS 17,995 Euros Now FINAL SALE PRICE €17,500. www. robertsoncars-spain,com or text me whatsapp 608 658 785 Email: therobertsonclan@gmail.com ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE AUTOMATIC / CABRIO SMART CAR Silver with Black Electric Hood, hood can be half opened or fully down, go top-less, 2 seater. Small Car Big Personality.

Park anywhere, little beauty she has her own car cover. Huge Service History originally from Germany, now Spanish Plates. Low KMS. ITV, Air-condition , Electric Windows and Locking, 2 Keys. Outstanding Condition, WAS €5,995 NOW SALE PRICE €5,250 Perfect Runaround.

See Photo on my web page – www. robertsoncars-spain.com or text/ Whatsapp me: 608 658 785 Email therobertsonclan@gmail.com ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE 4x4 RANGE ROVER SPORT 2022 LOWKILOMETRES Stunning in White, New ITV Till August. Always garaged, lady owner has looked after her. Arrive in style was €18,995 now FINAL SALE PRICE €17,500 See Photo on my web page – www. robertsoncars-spain.com or text/ Whatsapp me: 608 658 785 Email therobertsonclan@gmail.com ROBERTSON CARS SALE SALE SALE 4x4 SUZUKI SAMURAI CABRIO This old warrior is in amazing condition. White with White Soft Hood. No Air-Con, just take the hood off! Drives like a tank great for campo. ITV until June 2024 only 77,000KMS. MUST BE SEEN €4,995.

See Photo on my web page – www. robertsoncars-spain.com or text/ Whatsapp me: 608 658 785 Email therobertsonclan@gmail.com WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834.

CAR SERVICES ENGLISH bodyshop, fully equipped, Mijas Costa. No Job Too Small. 952 667 074 (304140)

IMPORT/TRANSFER CARS TRANSFERRED, history checks, Imports and Embargo problems. Change of use and lost papers. Change your car to Spanish plates, simple efficient service.

Cars bought and sold. Please call 678808837 or email carsinspain@ live.co.uk (290189)

WANTED WANTED, wanted, wanted!! All cars, all years, all models… from exotic to classic. Spanish, English, Dutch plated. Call us on 951 977 329 or 606 647 597. (303386) WANTED CARS AND VANS, FREE COLLECTION, SAME DAY 685 524 921 (290189) CARS, VANS BOUGHT WITH / WITHOUT PAPERS. CASH WAITING 678 808 837 (303115)

EURO CAR Established since 1998.

All Cars / Commercials wanted, runners or no-runners. Cash. Buyer Collects. Transfer included. 605 109 796 (303389) CARS, Vans, Bikes wanted. Any Reg, Anything Considered Call or Whatsapp 687 049 592 (304671)

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PET CHARITY ACE CHARITY ‘El Refugio’ in La Cala de Mijas is a registered charity. We have on average 275 dogs in our care and we receive no help from the town hall or the Andalucian government.

We desperately need foster homes and adoptants for our many dogs, especially the small ones and puppies who do not do well in a big shelter. We are grateful for any help offered, including donations of food and blankets. Visiting times are from 13.00 to 15.00 and you can always turn up or make an appointment by calling Denise on 669 018 736. Our website is www.ace-charity.org where you can view all the dogs in our care.

(93320) ADANA THE ANIMAL SHELTER IN ESTEPONA. We always need volunteers to walk and socialise with our dogs and help with cleaning.

We also need good homes for our animals that you can see on www. adana.es. Kennels open every day 10-1.30, Camino de Casares, near Parque de los Pedregales, Estepona.

(5 minutes from the Poligono) For more information call 952 113 467, available from 10.00am until 2.00pm.

(93319) ANIMEX Foundation offers free will upgrading when leaving something for abandoned animals. Contact animexfoundation@gmail.com or call 692 166 434 now for this absolutely free service (288287)

ARCH - The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses, registered charity 8448, the Centre is open to visitors every Sunday from 9am until 2pm.

Working closely with the Spanish authorities, we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused and abandoned horses and donkeys. Come and meet our current rescues, learn about our work and how you may be able to help. Run solely by a small team of dedicated volunteers, the Centre is located between Alhaurin el Grande and Coin in Comm. de Viña Borrego behind Venta Miralmonte. For more information and directions see our website www.horserescuespain.org, our Facebook page Centro Andalusi de Rescate de Caballos or tel. 610 845 491 or 656 935 613 (93322)

POOLS

PROPERTY

SEPE the horse and donkey charity is open to the public at weekends from 10.00 to 5.00. Volunteers are much needed in all departments and are welcome at any time. For our riding for the disabled classes, we are also in need of extra helpers. We are nationally registered by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior (164640) but only with your support can we give the equine a voice. If you can just commit to 2 or 3 euros a month it will really help make a difference. You can find us at Lauro Golf Equestrian Centre, Alqueria, Alhaurin de la Torre.

Tel. 608 258 950 info@sepeonline. net www.sepeonline.net (93321) SOS ANIMAL REFUGE we have dogs, young and old looking for homes. Some of our dogs have been with us for some time and would love to find a cosy spot to curl up in and a knee on which to rest their heads.

If you have room in your heart and home we would love to hear from you. We do not put our dogs to sleep - no matter how old, they are safe with us. For day to day needs and to pay for veterinary care, we much appreciate the support we receive.

We desperately need items to sell on our market stall to help raise funds and are happy to come and collect.

So, if you are having a clear-out, please contact us on 605 227 155.

If you would like to know more about rehoming, please call 653 257 875.

Visit our website www.sos-animals. org or please phone Sandy on 952 385 923 or 666 814 056 if you would like to make a donation or help in any way. (93317)

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PLUMBERS

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List with us and let us take the stress out of selling your home. No sale no fee!! English agent on the ball with clients waiting. Please call 685 524 921. (290189) FOR SALE URBAN PLOT 1200m2.

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Good investment in a prominent position Urb Sierra Chica Coin / Malaga. 130,000€ plus taxes. Tel: +34 696 376 454

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REMOVALS/STORAGE 15 CUBIC metre van returning to the UK 16TH February 2024.

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ROLLER SHUTTERS ACE OF SHADES - PERSIANA (security shutter) electric and manual, various colours available including wood effect, we also offer a repair service.

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SOLAR SOLAR Hot Water heating: FREE HOT WATER. 28 years installation history in Spain.

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EWN 59

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WINDOW TINTING

60 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II MOTORING

HAVE you ever weighed the cost difference between used electric cars and their petrol or diesel counterparts? Re-

cent insights reveal a striking disparity in the second-hand car market.

In December, an annual analysis conducted by a

Spanish vehicle sellers association disclosed a significant price gap in the pre-owned car sector.

This study which focu-

Who foots the bill?

HAVE you ever wondered who’s liable for repairs if your vehicle is damaged during a Spanish ITV vehicle inspection?

In the unfortunate circumstance that a vehicle incurs damage while undergoing the Technical Vehicle Inspection (ITV) - a process mandatory in Spain for ensuring vehicle safety and environmental compliance - the responsibility for repairs depends on specific circumstances.

The ITV station’s insurance typically covers damages incurred during the inspection process. In situations where a vehicle sustains damage during the inspection, such as a broken windscreen wiper, window damage, bodywork scratches, or mechanical

faults caused by technician actions, the ITV station’s insurance is obliged to cover the costs.

However, if a fault emerges after passing the ITV and exiting the facility, the vehicle owner must prove that the issue resulted from malpractice during the inspection.

This requires evidence the vehicle was in pristine condition upon arrival and that the breakdown is directly linked to the inspection.

Repair responsibility during an ITV hinges on when and how the damage occurs. ITV stations hold liability for damages caused during inspections, while proving post inspection damage responsibility falls on the vehicle owner.

sed on vehicles with a single previous owner or those used in leasing with less than 15,000 kilometres, found that used electric cars were priced at an average of €34,818.

In stark contrast, the average costs for petrol and diesel vehicles stood at €19,999 and €17,743 respectively.

Statistics show that electric vehicles, despite a €2,000 decrease in value over the year, were almost twice as expensive as their combustion engine equivalents.

This disparity underlines the major hurdle in adopting electric vehicle technology. According to Faconauto, electric cars comprised a mere 0.6 per cent of Spain’s vehicle transactions last year.

The Moves III Plan, initiated in June, aimed to bridge this gap by offering up to €7,000 in subsi-

Credit: carballo/Shutterstock.com

Used car market Second-hand car market.

dies for ‘pre-owned’ electric cars, provided they are less than 12 months old and owned by manufacturers or rental companies.

Prices for pre-owned electric vehicles vary across Spain. Murcia recorded average prices around €44,000, while La Rioja saw averages drop to €24,000.

Madrid, Catalonia, and Andalucia, with the most transactions, posted figures close to the national average, at €31,800, €34,519, and €37,000 res-

pectively.

The Renault Zoe led the used electric car market in Spain, despite a 35 per cent drop in sales to 1,099 units.

Following closely were the Smart ForTwo, 1,028 sales; and the BMW i3, with 730 cars sold. The Fiat 500 and Tesla Model 3 rounded out the top five, with 658 and 611 sales respectively.

Notably, the Megane E-Tech saw a significant increase, from 30 units to nearly 400 by the close of 2023.

MOTORING II euroweeklynews.com

1 - 7 February 2024

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SEAT Leon FR Sport e-Hybrid - a tempting package

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

SPANISH car maker SEAT, part of the Volkswagen group, has a longer history than many realise having been formed in 1950. It was created by Spain’s government-owned Instituto Nacional de Industria, Spanish private banks, and Fiat. After 36 years the Spanish government sold SEAT to the Volkswagen Group in 1986.

SEAT has another brand in its stable now, Cupra!

It appeared in 2018 and was billed as their sporting brand, and SEAT has always portrayed itself as a more sporting alternative since it became part of VW. The Cupra brand has proved very successful but now the downside is that SEAT has revealed they plan to lose the SEAT name off their range and concentrate on Cupra.

Although the SEAT name

may well appear on other modes of transport, for now at least the SEAT name is set to disappear from our roads.

Which proves a good opportunity to get behind the wheel of the SEAT Leon FR Sport plug in hybrid. Many SEAT models have a Cupra equivalent but the differentiation between the SEAT Leon and the Cupra Leon is the latter being a more sporting take on the former with lower ride height, bolder styling tweaks and a sportier interior.

The SEAT Leon is arguably, therefore, a more liveable daily drive as although it does sit low, and has firmed up suspension, the ride is perfectly acceptable even on our worst roads. It still retains a sporty dynamic with nicely weighted steering and feels agile and sure footed enough to prove quick, and entertaining, on twisting cross country

SEAT Leon FR Sport e-Hybrid makes for an entertaining drive.

roads.

The range starts from €27,301/£23,335 and en-

compasses four trim levels and four engines including the plug-in hybrid.

Lead-in models have air conditioning, rear parking sensors, keyless start, LED

Facts at a Glance • Price: €44,318/£37,880 • Engine: 1.4-litre petrol with 75kw battery developing 204PS • Transmission: 6-speed DSG Automatic • Performance: Max speed 220kph/137mph O - 100kph/62 mph 7.5 seconds • Economy: 1.17l per 100km/241.7mpg combined - real world driving probably circa 5.65l per 100km/50 mpg depending on driving style and conditions - 64km/40 miles electric only range.

• Emissions: 26g/km

lights, CarPlay and Android Auto. The plug-in hybrid in FR Sport trim, with power from a 1.4-litre hybrid petrol engine aided by a 75kw battery.

This means you have 40 miles pure electric driving, subject to weather conditions and type of driving, and three modes - pure electric, pure petrol or a combination of the two, where the car decides which is the appropriate power and can include both petrol and electric.

In FR Sport mode standard fare includes three-zone-climate, park assist, auto dimming mirror, wireless phone charging, heated front seats and steering wheel, suede upholstery and interior wraparound interior lighting.

For those dipping an automotive pedal into EV motoring the Leon e-Hybrid is a tempting package and an entertaining drive.

SPORT II euroweeklynews.com

Malaga On Top! AWFL Over 50s Real Calahonda 1 v 4 Malaga WFC In a battle between leaders and second, a tightly contested match saw Malaga score first through Javi. Real soon struck back with a fine, long-range shot from Simon Luke but Roberto scored again for the visitors before half time.

Making fewer individual errors than the opposition, two more goals from Fran and Victor gave Malaga the victory, maintaining their 100 perv cent record at the top.

AWFL Over 60s Real Calahonda 0 v 0 Malaga WFC Although Real had the greater possession for much of the game, neither side could break down the other and, with a fine performance from Robert in the Malaga goal, the visitors finished strongly to share the points in this hard-fought game.

Torrox Tornadoes 4 v 1 Boca Seniors Competa A slow start by the hosts allowed Competa to go ahead with a goal from John Hamilton, Mark Bull equalising for Torrox before half time. In a second half where both sides had players side-lined for various offences, Torrox took the initiative and goals from Mark Sylvester, a second from Bull and the last from Steve Eastwood saw the spoils deservedly go to the hosts.

Sporting Benahavis 2 v 7 AC Benahavis This was the first ever meeting of these two sides in Sporting’s inaugural season. Athletico were deserved victors, although the contest was closer than the score might suggest, with the winners, with their greater experience, being more clinical in their finishing. Brian Barnett (4), Dave O’Hara (2) and Marc Morris were on target for Athletico, with Gary Stevens replying with a brace for Sporting.

John Smith TWO of the biggest football cubs in the world, Barcelona and Liverpool will be looking for new managers at the end of this season.

We know that Jurgen Klopp is off to take a sabbatical but at the moment is still under contract to Liverpool until the 2026, so it’s unlikely that his announcement was a subterfuge to head towards Barcelona.

As far as Barcelona are concerned, the appointment of Xavi Hernández in 2021 hasn’t turned out to be a success after his first great season as they are currently only in fourth place in La Liga, way off the top spot and are suffering financial fair play difficulties.

He opted to go rather than wait to be pushed, but this then leaves something of a poisoned chali-

OPTED TO GO: Xavi announced he was bowing out.

ce for whoever is recruited to take over.

There were rumours that former Barcelona

Grand Prix returns

MADRID is set to host the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix starting in 2026, marking the sport’s return to the city after over four decades.

The agreement was finalised last week at IFEMA Madrid.

This decision brings the prestigious motorsport back to Madrid, with a commitment spanning from 2026 to 2035.

The proposed circuit, which is still pending final approval from the FIA, promises to be a unique addition to the F1 calendar.

Stretching over 5,474 km with 20 turns, it is designed to deliver a qualifying lap time of approximately one minute and 32 seconds.

The track will incorporate both existing and future roads of the Ifema Madrid site, as well as including a 1.5 km stretch of public roads.

The venue will be very close to the Adolfo Suarez

Credit: cristiano barni/Shutterstock.com

PRESTIGIOUS MOTORSPORT: Hungarian Grand Prix.

Madrid-Barajas airport and only 16 kilometres from the city centre. the Madrid circuit will have facilities never before seen in F1, including a covered and heated paddock, together with transport connections that will be accessible for fans by car, bus, train and metro The event, entirely fun-

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Replacements wanted!

Credit: FC Barcelona

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

1 - 7 February 2024

ded by private companies, is expected to inject around €500 million into Madrid’s economy every year.

This substantial economic impact underlines the significance of hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix in the Spanish capital.

Madrid’s entry into the Formula 1 calendar is not just a return of high-octane

motorsport to the city, but also a promising economic opportunity, showcasing innovative circuit designs and strong private sector support.

As the engines start to rev in anticipation, the world watches to see how Madrid will transform into a new hub for Formula 1 excitement.

player and now Arsenal manager, Mike Arteta was a favourite but he quickly made it clear that he isn’t

currently interested in the job so that also leaves Barcelona in a bit of a dilemma.

There are a few ‘big names’ such as Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho who have recently been sacked, but if they weren’t good enough for Chelsea and Roma (plus plenty of other major clubs) are they right for Barcelona?

Back in the UK Roberto de Zerbi has been achieving great things with Brighton and Hove Albion, but look what happened to former Brighton manager Graham Potter who couldn’t make the grade when stepping up to Chelsea.

Maybe the logical way to go is to trawl former Barcelona players who are now managers or look at some of the more successful La Liga managers who understand Spanish football.

New tennis channel BRITISH tennis lovers will no longer have to wait for Wimbledon to get their fix of strawberries and Champagne provided they have a Sky Sports subscription.

The broadcaster has just announced that it will shortly launch the UK’s first TV channel dedicated solely to tennis and from February 11, Sky Sports Tennis and Now will deliver over 4,000 matches from more than 80 tournaments a year on the ATP and WTA tours as well as exclusive coverage of the US Open.

Two well-respected former players, Tim Henman and Laura Robson will form part of the new team and names of other commentators, no doubt many from the tennis world, will be revealed shortly.

The first week of programming will feature live coverage from the Hologic WTA Tour tournament in Doha, where viewers can watch Coco Gauff, Ons Jabeur, Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka and Iga Swiatek.

The action continues with the ATP Tour from Rotterdam, followed by an all-star line-up of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev on court in Doha from February 19.