Costa Blanca South 26 Sep – 2 Oct 2024 Issue 2047

Celebrating 20 years

ON October 26, the Crescendo Choir will celebrate 20 years of making music with a special concert at Salt Church in Los Montesinos, Alicante.

Doors will open at 4:00. PM, and the concert is scheduled to begin at 4:30.PM.

A prize raffle will also be held during the interval.

Tickets for this spectacular event are available at various locations, including The Post Room Benijofar, Face2Face Benijofar, Mateos Cafe & Bistro Benijofar, Elipacrafts Quesada, The Treasure Chest Quesada, EntreDos Benijofar, and Salt Church Los Montesinos.

Tickets can also be acquired from any choir member and at the door on the night of the performance.

Founded in 2004, Crescendo Choir has consis-

tently grown in both size and skill, earning a reputation as one of the leading ex-pat choirs in the region.

With several concerts each year, the choir has raised thousands of euros for charitable causes.

Rehearsals are held weekly at Miguel de Rincón Restaurant in Los Montesinos.

Based in Torrevieja, on the Costa Blanca, Crescendo is a registered charitable organisation, making significant contributions to charities throughout Spain, especially in the Alicante Province.

Robin Myers, the president of Crescendo Choir confirmed: “I am very proud of what the choir has achieved over the years and the amount we have raised for various charities.”

Costa Blanca South • Issue No. 2047 • 26 Sept - 2 Oct 2024 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F E GRATIS GRATUIT S G

Going from strength to strength

Image: Crescendo Choir / Mike Ryan photography

Sunday fun in the sun

ON Sunday, October 6, starting at 11:00.AM, join the fun of a sponsored walk in support of the children at the San José Obrero Orphanage.

The 4-kilometre walk will take place along the coast of La Mata, beginning and ending at Kiosko Cabo Cervera in Torrevieja.

For more information, to sponsor a participant, or

to get a sponsor form, you can contact Lyn via WhatsApp at (+34) 676 650 210.

Walkers are encouraged to bring their dogs, as long as they are kept on a lead, provided with water, and the owner has a pooper scooper.

This year’s event is supported by the Torrevieja Town Hall, sponsored by Casas Espania, and will be filmed by Brits Living in

Spain on YouTube.

The orphanage, home to over 60 children aged 6 to 16, offers a safe and nurturing family-like environment.

All money raised from the walk will go towards purchasing essential items like clothes and toiletries for the children.

Participants are asked to arrive at 10:30 a.m. for the event’s 11:00 a.m. start.

Raising funds for children who are in need.

Back to the Office

OVER the last ten years, employees have demanded more exibility in their working patterns, including the option to work hybrid and full-time from home. However, a recent global survey carried out by KMPG indicates that bosses now want workers back in the o ce.

The hybrid working model, popular with employees and younger talent, isn’t working for the bosses, according to the

international consultancy and accounting rm. The study, a benchmark in the industry for over ten years, quizzes 1,300 company chiefs worldwide on their views of current business trends.

This year’s results show a marked loss of appetite for home working. This is so much so that the majority of the bosses from eleven major global powers, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain,

the UK, the US, and China, reported a willingness to o er sta incentives to lure them back to the o ce. Many were happy to reward sta who made the e ort to be in the oce with favourable assignments, pay rises or even promotions.

A full return to o ce work is gaining popularity among big companies, including Amazon, Boots, Laing O’Rourke, and Rockstar Games. The shift

Workforce boost

FOLLOWING the success of integrating Ukrainian refugees into their workforce, Norway is set to implement new rules to increase their attractiveness to foreign workers. Over 27% of working-age Ukrainians have found employment in Norway, and the government hopes to replicate this success with other foreign workers.

A key component of the new regulations will be the requirement for shorter induction programmes. After three months of induction, foreign workers will be required to engage in at least fteen hours of work-related activities per week. This move is designed to prepare foreigners for the Norwegian labour market more quickly and, in turn, accelerate their contribution to the country’s economy.

towards in-person work is being advocated by those who argue that face-to-face communication fosters more creativity, enhances collaboration, and strengthens company culture in ways that are di cult to replicate online.

The workers themselves have mixed feelings about the return. Various surveys indicate that more than 60% prefer the hybrid or fully remote option.

Furthermore, Norway plans to expand its integration programmes to encompass foreign workers between the ages of 55 and 60. This initiative aims to allow older people to acquire the necessary quali cations to enter the workforce, thereby increasing Norway’s labour pool. Additionally, the programme will be expanded to accommodate individuals seeking formal education, with an extra year added for upper secondary education and vocational training. The recent regulations are designed to address the growing need for foreign workers to have the necessary skills to succeed in the Norwegian economy. Employment and Inclusion Minister Tonje Brenna stressed the importance of creating a exible regulatory framework that can e ectively support foreign workers.

ACCORDING to the Eurofound 2023 report, the EU is still experiencing labour shortages following the strong market recovery after the effects of COVID-19, combined with ongoing demographic trends. As more specialised and higher-paid jobs are found in the cities, this is having a bigger impact here than in the rural areas. Interestingly, research indicates that, on average, only half of urban residents believe that finding a job in their European city is easy. Notably, cities in Spain such as Malaga (21%), Barcelona (24%), and Madrid (24%) fall well below this average. This finding is directly correlated with satisfaction levels, as a higher percentage of individuals perceiving job availability positively are more likely to express satisfaction with urban living.

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

Norways aim to be more attractive to foreign workers

Bosses want their workers back in the office

World Tourism Day

ORIHUELA’S Councillor for Tourism, Gonzalo Montoya, has announced a special programme to celebrate World Tourism Day on September 27.

From September 27 to October 27, various acti -

vities will be held to promote local heritage and encourage community participation.

“This year, we aimed to create activities that connect people with their surroundings in a

close and participatory way,” the councillor confirmed.

Throughout this month, Calle López Pozas will host a crochet exhibition by the Entre-Lazadas Association, a group of

solidarity knitters from Orihuela.

Additionally, the Tourist Office will showcase a craft exhibition featuring handmade products titled “Los Azulejos de Úrsula.”

On Saturday, September 28, visitors can enjoy two guided tours of the Traditional Oil Mill Museum, including tastings of Segura beer, oil, and bread for €5 per person.

A bike ride to the Norias Gemelas is also planned for September 27, featuring a tasting component.

Participants can join a scenic sunset bike ride at Mil Palmeras Beach on September 28, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Lastly, on Sunday, September 29, there will be a tour of Orihuela’s secret gardens at 11:00 a.m., complete with a dance performance and tastings.

Bookings or more information for these activities can be made at orihuelaturistica.es or via WhatsApp at (34) 673836385.

Golden celebrations

TO celebrate the Month of the Elderly throughout October, Elche is offering a variety of performan-

ces, theatre shows, guided tours, and dances, among other activities.

The Councillor for Se -

niors, Aurora Rodil, has encouraged all seniors to explore the programme, sign up for any required events, and actively participate.

With over 20 activities planned, there’s something for everyone.

For more information about the events, seniors can email mayores@elche.es, call (+34) 965066283, or visit the Casa del Mayor in the mornings.

Orihuela’s Councillor for Tourism, Gonzalo Montoya

Carp-R-Us Sea lettuce saviour

The lack of water in the River Segura and it´s catchment area is a concern for everyone. The level of the river in the lower reaches is as low as many can ever remember and, as a result, Carp-R-Us had to move its match this week, round six of their Summer/Autumn series, from the Eden 2 stretch to the Canal del Progres (Mercadona stretch).

This stretch of water was dredged a few years back but now has lots of growth lining its banks, o ering many attractive sh holding features, its just a pity there aren´t more sh in it. The match was won by Trevor Morrey from peg 6 with 3.30kg caught varying between oat and feeder tactics with maggot or bread on the hook. Second was Tony Felstead on the adjacent peg with 2.09kg caught using a ground-bait feeder and maggot. Third from peg 1 was Steve Fell who had 1.55kg on pole and bread and fourth was Jeremy Fardoe with 0.88kg.

Information about the club can be found on its website www. carp-r-us.weebly.com or on the Facebook page Carp-R-Us Fishing Costa Blanca

Researchers from the University of Alicante’s Department of Marine Sciences have made an important discovery about the seaweed Ulva australis, also known as southern sea lettuce.

They found that extracts from this seaweed have antioxidant properties and can promote cell growth, which may help in treating neurodegenerative retinal diseases.

Since Ulva australis is harvested from degraded environments, its extraction is environmentally sustainable and has minimal impact on local ecosystems.

Professor Federico López Moya highlighted the surprising potential of algae from the Ulva genus as a new source of benecial compounds.

The study focused on the antioxidant e ects of these extracts on cells a ected by oxidative stress, a condition linked to various retinal disorders.

The researchers believe this initial work in Marine Biotechnology could lead to new solutions for neurodegenerative conditions.

Miguel Valverde Urrea, another researcher, explained that Ulva australis is especially valuable due to its stable and easily obtainable extracts, making it a sustainable option.

Working with experts from the Department of Optics, Pharmacology, and Anatomy, the researchers simulated retinal diseases in the lab.

They induced oxidative stress in cells and applied the algae extracts, nding that these metabolites not only protected against damage but also encouraged cell growth.

The results suggest potential applications for treating conditions like age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.

The ndings have been patented and aim to create a biotechnological foundation for preventing and treating neurodegenerative retinal diseases.

Making its mark

ON Saturday, September 21, Benejúzar unveiled new tourist signage marking the historic site of the first hermitage of the Virgin del Pilar, originally built in 1940.

The Fiestas and Pilgrimage in honour of the Virgin del Pilar stand as one of Benejúzar’s most cherished traditions, with roots spanning over 80 years.

Every year on October 12, the event draws locals from the town, along with residents from the entire Vega Baja region, and devotees from across Spain.

Visitors and residents join together to make the nearly two-kilometre journey from the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, located in the town centre, to the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, located in the Benejúzar mountain range.

An eco-friendly and accessible natural resource.

Image: UA - Universitat d’Alacant / Universidad de Alicante / Facebook

Making its mark

Image: Ayuntamiento de Benejúzar / Facebook

Flamenco & flavours

FOLLOWING the success of the last event in August, ‘Flamenco y Sal’ will return on Friday, September 27, at 8:00.PM in the gardens of the Torrevieja Auditorium.

Guests will be able to enjoy a flamenco show accompanied by a cocktail dinner

at sunset.

The evening begins with a reception in the garden’s wooded area, where a tasting dinner will be served as the sun sets with the Torrevieja Salt Flats in the background.

The highlight of the eve-

ning will be the flamenco performance, ‘Flamenco de raíz’ by the Noelia García company.

A dance troupe of five artists will take the stage, accompanied by live music, delivering a passionate performance of traditional flamenco styles designed to captivate the audience.

‘Flamenco y Sal’ invites guests on a journey into the heart of Spani sh art and cul ture.

To reserve your ticket or for more in formation head to the Torre vieja Teatro Municipal box office at Pl. Miguel Her nández, 3, 03181, or vi sit the web site: cultura torrevieja. com.

Heating up

THE Mastral Project provides meteorological and climatological information for Torrevieja and the Vega Baja del Segura region.

Mastral has confirmed that the start of astronomical autumn on Sunday, September 29, at 2:44.PM will bring an unexpected return of summer-like temperatures.

Despite the recent rain and variable weather, the upcoming days will feature clear skies and sunshine, with no precipitation forecast.

The most striking aspect of the weather will be the rise in temperatures.

On the Vega Baja coast, particularly in Torrevieja, maximum temperatures will reach up to 29ºC on Monday, while inland areas such as Orihuela could see temperatures surpassing 30ºC,

with a peak of 34ºC expected on Thursday.

In some areas, the warmth will reach up to 35ºC, providing a brief resurgence of summer-like conditions.

These elevated temperatures, according to the Mastral Project, will persist throughout the week, though there may be a drop in temperatures by the following weekend.

However, it remains too early to predict this with certainty.

This warm spell at the onset of autumn is a reminder of the lingering Mediterranean climate, which often continues to deliver warm days before the cooler autumn temperatures fully set in.

For ongoing updates, take a look at the Mastral Project website at eltiempoentorrevieja.es.

Image: Proyecto Mastral - El Tiempo en Torrevieja / Facebook

A warm start to Autumn.

A cultural show Image: Escuela de arte flamenco Noelia Garcia / Facebook.

Santa Pola freebies

SANTA Pola has decided to extend free admission to the Sea Museum Museo del Mar and the Santa Pola Aquarium until December 31, 2024.

This move is part of the ongoing celebration of the 40th anniversary of the cultural complex at the Castillo Fortaleza.

By offering free access to these municipal facilities, the initiative aims to attract more visitors and encourage the public to explore the cultural and historical significance of the museum and the aquarium.

The Museo del Mar showcases Santa Pola’s maritime heritage, while the Santa Pola Aquarium, located in the same complex, is the oldest of its kind in the Valencian Community.

Both institutions play key roles in educating the public about marine life and the region’s fishing history.

Artichoke glory

TEN chefs from the Valencian Community, Madrid, Ibiza and Murcia will compete to create the best dish with artichokes from the Vega Baja in Alicante Gastronómica

The chefs from four autonomous communities have reached the final of the second National Artichoke Competition of the Vega Baja del Segura, scheduled for September 29 at 5:00.PM in the Saborea Costa Blanca space at Alicante Gastronómi-

ca.

The Alicante Gastronómica culinary event is taking place from September 27 to 30 at Fira Alacant and brings together professional chefs.

Each chef will use the Vega Baja artichoke as the central ingredient in their dish, focusing on balanced nutrition reflecting the Mediterranean lifestyle.

A jury of gastronomy experts will judge the dishes based on creativity,

presentation, flavour, balance, and the use of the artichoke.

The first prize winner will receive €2,000, while second and third place will receive €1,000 and €500, respectively.

The winning chef will also secure a spot at the next National Congress of the Almoradí Artichoke.

The competition aims to promote the versatility of the Vega Baja artichoke and support the agricultural sector.

Image: Alcachofa Vega Baja / Facebook

Creating the best dish.

THE Santa Pola Sea Museum is hosting an exhibition titled “Tangier under the gaze of Paul Servant”.

The exhibition showcases 40 historical photographs of Tangier captured by Paul Servant - a French military officer and amateur photographerduring the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The photographer, who lived in Tangier for a significant part of his life,

Tangier transformation

served in the Colonial Infantry Regiment and was later president of the Propaganda and Tourism Committee of the International Zone, a role in which he promoted Tangier as a tourist destination.

The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into Tangier’s transformation du-

ELCHE is set to celebrate its inaugural “Noche en Blanco” (White Night) on Saturday, September 28.

This cultural event aims to engage all tastes and audiences with a variety of activities across the city’s museums and public spaces, running from 6:00 PM until midnight.

Featuring more than twenty cultural events, including concerts in the squares, theatre performances, films, guided tours, exhibitions, and talks, the evening will offer something for everyone.

Councillor Irene Ruíz emphasised the importance of this initiative

ring its international period, highlighting the city’s multicultural life through images of the arrival of Europeans, the construction of the railway, iconic buildings, and daily life in the city.

The photographs are part of a larger collection of around 2,000 glass plate negatives that the photographer took,

primarily in the 1920s.

This collection was eventually donated to the Institute of Moroccan Studies (TALIM) at the American Legation Museum in Tangier by philanthropist Donald Angus, who had purchased the negatives in the 1970s.

Due to their fragility, many of the glass plates were damaged over time, but starting in 1989, efforts were made to clean, scan, and restore them.

White Night

for promoting and valuing the city’s cultural heritage, hoping to make it an annual event.

Alongside the scheduled activities, residents

will have the opportunity to explore museums and cultural spaces until midnight.

Participating venues include La Alcudia, the

MUPE, the Museum of Puçol, Casa Museo dels Pontos, the Museum of the Virgen de la Asunción, MAHE, the temporary exhibition hall of the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of El Palmeral and Hort de San Plácido, the Museum of La Festa, and the Museum of the Casa del Belén.

In addition, iconic locations such as the Calahorra Tower, Vaillo Tower, Arab Baths, Clarisas, the Medieval Exchange exhibition hall, the Old Chapel of the Third Order, the Lanart Room of l’Escorxador, and the Ángel Castaño Cultural Space will also participate.

Featuring more than twenty cultural events.

Why tax planning is so rewarding

Tax planning is an integral part of effective wealth management. It plays an important role in protecting and making the most of what you have and should be taken into account when making decisions about your savings, investments and pensions.

While the tax tail shouldn’t necessarily wag the investment dog, there are numerous benefits to strategic tax planning.

Less tax for you

The most important benefit is probably to reduce your overall annual liability for income, capital gains and wealth taxes on your savings, investments, assets and pensions.

We all need to pay tax, but if there’s a more tax-efficient way to hold your capital, shouldn’t you explore if it could work for you? Much depends on how you hold your assets, so investigate what compliant, tax-efficient arrangements are available in Spain. You may be surprised by how much tax you can save.

By Jon Pemberton, Partner, Blevins Franks

Less tax for your heirs

Of course, the less tax you pay in your lifetime, the more you have to spend now or pass on to your heirs.

But with some investment structures, you may also be able to lower the inheritance tax liability for your heirs. Ideally, you want a solution that will limit inheritance taxes while also providing tax-efficient income and growth throughout your lifetime.

Estate planning benefits

A bonus of strategic tax plan-

ning can be that the arrangements you put in place also help make things easier for your family when you are gone. Many tax-efficient investment arrangements also offer more estate planning flexibility and control. For example, they may allow you to bypass succession laws on investment assets, and the capital can pass to your chosen heirs without the complications and delays associated with probate.

Maximising returns

Effective tax planning plays a part in helping returns outpace the cost of living. Ultimately, what counts when assessing the value of investments are ‘real’ returns, after tax, expenses and inflation are deducted. Property, to give another example, is often lauded for producing relatively high longterm returns, but with stamp duty, local rates, capital gains and wealth tax applied, tax liabilities can be large compared to other assets.

The starting point should be ensuring your portfolio is well diversified and suitable for your situation, goals and risk tolerance. But without suitable tax planning, returns can be diminished by taxes that could have been avoided or reduced.

If you own many different investments individually, moving them into a wrapper like a life assurance policy for the tax benefits also makes your life easier. With the investments consolidated into one policy, there’s less for you to manage, and less time wasted when completing your tax declarations.

Getting the best results

Tax planning should not be done in isolation or as an afterthought – make it a fundamental part of your investment, pensions, estate planning and overall wealth management strategic plan, and review it regularly to keep it up to date. It’s easy to get DIY tax planning wrong, which could lead

to an unwelcome tax bill and the stress of sorting it out. Expatriates have the added complication of dealing with the tax rules of more than one country.

For the best results, talk to an adviser with in-depth understanding of cross-border taxation, including how the Spanish tax regime interacts with UK rules. Besides offering peace of mind that your tax and wider financial planning is fully compliant, they will ensure it meets your needs and goals in the most tax-efficient way.

The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; individuals should take personalised advice.

Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www.blevinsfranks.com.

Villena rising

VILLENA’S Department of Tourism has formally requested the Valencian Government to designate Villena as a Relevant Tourist Municipality of the Valencian Community, aiming to position the city among the region’s most attractive destinations.

This initiative would enhance the city’s visibility and promotion through the Ministry’s channels while providing better access to funding and subsidies to bolster the local tourism sector.

The request is supported by a significant increase in hotel capacity, which has grown by 56 per cent from 2021 to 2023.

Currently, Villena boasts 331 hotel places, up from 212 two years ago.

This growth spans various accommodation types, including an increase in hotels and hostels from 56 to 83 places, rural accommodations from 35 to 48, and a dou-

bling of tourist apartment options from 83 to 162.

The number of camping spots has remained steady at 38.

The Council emphasises that Villena meets the necessary criteria for this regional classification due to its established tourist offerings, consistent growth in visitor numbers, and expanded accommodation options.

Councillor for Tourism, Paula García, stated that the increase in hotel places has prompted the request for this new classification, which would

not only enhance the municipality’s prestige within the regional tourism landscape but also increase the financial aid provided by the Valencian Community Tourist Board to support tourism-related activities.

As of now, there are 64 municipalities classified as tourist destinations in the Valencian Community, including 18 categorised as of Relevance and Excellence.

Villena currently holds the status of Tourist Municipality of Singularity, granted in March 2023.

Celebration days

ORIHUELA will be part of the “Days of the European Network of Celebrations of Holy Week and Easter,” running from October 4 to 20.

This annual event brings together towns in the network to promote the cultural significance of Holy Week as a major tourist attraction.

The European Network connects destinations across Europe known for their rich Easter and Holy Week traditions.

Its goal is to highlight the importance of these celebrations, preserving and sharing their heritage across the continent.

The network also aims to promote these towns as top tourist destinations,

known not only for their unique festivities but also for their broader cultural appeal.

Exploring Holy Week and Easter in Europe offers insight into some of the continent’s oldest and most diverse cultural traditions.

A special European cultural route has been created, allowing travellers to experience these unique celebrations - from solemn processions to lively festivitiesreflecting the shared history and heritage of different countries and regions.

For more details about the participating countries and their traditions, visit holyweekeurope.com.

Among the regions most attractive destinations

Celebration days

Magic eagle Strings and stars

Luis de Lama, well-known for his participation in the Spanish game show Pasapalabra on Antena 3, has recently joined forces with the Magic Eagle association from Sax, showing his support alongside Edu, a falcon.

De Lama, a civil guard and former contestant on Pasapalabra with a remarkable record of 106 appearances is excited about his involve ment in this initia tive.

He gained recognition not only for his time on the show but also for his dramatic participation in La Noche de Champions, a special edition of the contest that attrac ted the largest television audience in Spain.

se undergoing treatment.

The effectiveness of this therapy, which complements traditional psychotherapy, has been recognised in various areas including special education, social reintegration, and enhancing the quality of life for the elderly and children with psychological disorders.

Through his sponsorship, the Magic Eagle Association will continue its work using birds of prey in therapeutic interventions. These sessions with birds have proven beneficial, contributing to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of tho-

The therapy project is aimed at fostering greater independence and social integration for people with functional diversity.

It enhances their communication and psychomotor skills through close interaction with birds of prey.

Many of the individuals who benefit from these therapies suffer from conditions like acquired brain damage, making them an ideal target group.

These sessions have been shown to significantly improve communication, reduce aggression, increase empathy, enhance attention and concentration, and improve social and psychomotor skills.

THE XVI International Guitar Days are returning to Elda, offering two months of diverse concerts throughout October and November.

Organised by the Department of Culture, this event will showcase renowned international artists, bringing live music to various corners of the city.

Councillor Iñaki Pérez highlighted the involvement of prominent figures such as actor Alberto San Juan, alongside mu -

sicians like Iwao Sasaki from Japan and Antonio Carone from Italy.

This year, the event introduces a special feature: the first International Chamber Music Competition with Guitar.

The competition will have two stages: in the first phase, participants submit a 10-minute video of their performance.

A jury will select up to four chamber groups for the final. In the fi -

nal phase, the selected groups will perform a 20-minute recital as part of the festival’s official programme.

Artistic director Marina Payá emphasized the aim to bring culture to every resident of Elda, making music more accessible.

With the competition and concerts, the Guitar Days continue to establish Elda as a cultural hub, offering worldclass live music experiences.

Image: Ayuntamiento de Elda

Diverse concerts.

Theraputic interventions.

ALICANTE Council is progressively unveiling the specifics of a planned entrance fee for tourists visiting the Santa Bárbara Castle.

Castle cash plan

Both the local tourism industry and opposition parties have expressed conditional support for the measure, emphasising that it should exclude Alicante residents and ensure the funds raised are directed toward the castle’s upkeep, restoration, and improvement.

Once officially approved, ticket prices for the historic fortress will range between €3 and €10, though the final amount is still to be determined.

their value.”

However, it remains unclear if the money will be earmarked exclusively for the castle or funnelled into the city’s general budget for later allocation.

Toni Gallego, the councillor for Finance, has stated that the revenue will be used to “maintain, improve, and modernise heritage sites” and “enhance

With Santa Bárbara attracting over 500,000 non-resident visitors last year, city officials project the new fee could generate between two to four million euros annually, assuming similar visitor numbers in the future.

The council is also still evaluating the best approach for implementing paid entry into council-owned museums, which will soon follow the castle’s model.

Rocanrola Festival

THE Rocanrola festival is becoming Spain’s largest celebration of rap and hiphop culture, happening in Alicante from October 10 to 12 at Espacio Rabasa.

This year’s third edition will feature over 50 top artists and a variety of activities.

Councillor for Tourism, Ana Poquet, highlighted the impact of music tourism, which brought in €40 million to the city last year, and noted that over 60 per cent of festival attendees are expected to come from outside Alicante.

The Festival will include graffiti exhibitions, poetry readings, industry talks, urban dance classes, and a photography exhibition, all aimed at engaging the public with music culture.

Aguas de Alicante will provide six free water dispensers at the festival to encourage healthy habits and reduce plastic waste.

The lineup includes we-

Rocanrola Festival

ll-known artists showcasing twelve hours of music each day across three stages.

Rocanrola will also feature a Living Park area dedicated to urban culture, with urban sports demos, a skate and BMX track, freestyle battles, and graffiti art by Barcelona’s Inocuo.

Camping and glamping options, along with a restaurant area, will help create a community atmosphere for attendees of all ages, showcasing a mix of old and new school artists.

For more information or to book tickets, head to the website: rocanrola.com.

IN an increasingly connected world, more and more relationships are blossoming between like-minded beings over massive distances and international borders.

The long-distance relationship has become all the rage. And the next step, tying the knot, has been made legal in the US. For lovebirds separated by geography, the traditional process of marriage online is now legal in the States. Even international borders are now no longer an obstacle to formalising a marriage when a couple cannot physically walk down the aisle together.

Hitched online

The United States is so far the only country that has fully legalised online marriages, o ering a fully virtual and completely legal wedding experience. To get married over the Internet, both parties need to ensure they meet the legal requirements. For US citizens, this can mean demonstrating age and o cial documents from their home countries. Uploading such documents as passports and birth

THE construction team behind Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia Basilica revealed new architectural details for the grand cross pinnacle that will top this renowned Modernist masterpiece.

Scheduled for completion in 2026, this cross will coincide with the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s passing and will feature a viewing area for visitors.

Architects indicate that the cross, measuring 17 metres in height and 13.5 metres in width, will have a hollow interior accommodating up to 11 guests at a time, o ering panoramic views of the city.

This pinnacle will crown the Tower of Jesus Christ, which is still under construc-

certi cates. Some sites might require these documents to be notarised.

The ceremony is then held via an online platform with guests and witnesses also present. The happy couple then receive a digital and legally binding marriage certi cate.

Getting hitched online might not automatically guarantee a Green Card, and consideration should be given to whether a US marriage certi cate is recognised in the country of residence. But if it is, then it is a legally valid marriage.

Masterpiece topper

tion but expected to be nished next year.

Crafted from a special blend of glass and ceramic, the cross will feature uniquely designed curved and pyramid-shaped pieces, along with windows that consist of three layers of curved, laminated glass adorned with textured pyramids.

The unveiling of the cross will not signify the end of Sagrada Familia’s construction; that e ort is projected to continue until 2034.

Gaudí intended for his

adhering to his belief that human-made structures should not surpass those of divine origin.

the cross, the Sagrada Familia will reach a total height of 172.5 metres, ve metres shorter than the hill.

The grand cross pinnacle.

Goodbye, Hello Kitty

LAUNCHED in 2009, Torti Wine’s Hello Kitty line has been a fixture in speciality UK retailers for years.

Magic & controversy

However, due to a recent regulatory decision by The Portman Group, these wines will soon be pulled from shop shelves.

dren’s toy name.

The regulatory body, funded by the drinks industry, acted on a complaint from a concerned consumer who questioned the legality of alcohol branded with a chil -

Following an investigation, The Portman Group concluded that the Hello Kitty wines were likely to appeal particularly to those under 18.

Torti Wine, based in Lombardy, contested this finding, claiming that Hello Kitty is not exclusively a children’s brand but is also popular among adults, including mothers and even celebrities like Kim Kardashian.

This argument, however, did not resonate well with The Portman Group.

The independent panel of the regulator pointed out that the Hello Kitty television show and video games target children aged three and up. They found that the branding predominantly attracts a young audience in the UK, particularly given the cute cartoon kitten featured on the wine labels.

RECENTLY, J.K. Rowling announced that casting is underway for a new adaptation of the Harry Potter series, this time as a television show.

A new YouGov survey reveals that nearly 40 per cent of Britons (39 per cent) are likely to watch this upcoming series, with 16 per cent expressing they are “very likely” to tune in.

Among fans of the books or films, this figure rises to 61 per cent.

Interestingly, the Harry Potter films are generally more popular than the books in the UK, with 58 per cent of people enjoying the movies compared to 47 per cent who appreciate the books.

Only 15 per cent of respondents report actively disliking either.

While Rowling’s work continues to resonate, the author herself has garnered a more divided opinion. Approximately 41 per cent of Britons have a favourable view of her, while 31 per cent remain neutral and 21 per cent express dislike.

Controversies surrounding her political stances, particularly regarding Scottish independence and her views on gender and transgender issues, have contributed to her unpopularity among younger audiences.

In fact, 53 per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds express negative feelings toward her, compared to 26 per cent of those aged 25 to 49, and only 7 per cent of individuals over 65.

you watch.

Will

Image: J.K. Rowling / Facebook

Your

SAVING MONEY ON LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS WORTH FORGOING COMFORT?

Would you fly long-haul on a no-frills budget airline?

BUDGET airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air have built their business model by operating nofrills short-haul flights. In return for a lower flight cost, customers forgo luxuries like in-flight meals, entertainment, and a more comfortable seat. Extra legroom is possible, but even then, customers are expected to pay an additional fee for the privilege.

Now, it seems that budget airlines are extending their operations to see just how significant cost is as a factor by offering longer-haul flights but with the same no-frills experience. The seats will be in the same format as those on short-haul flights and won’t recline or come with features such as onboard entertainment or included meals and drinks.

Starting in March 2025, Wizz Air, Which? Magazine’s ‘Worst Airline in Europe’ will offer flights from London Gatwick to Jeddah and Saudi Arabia. The Hungarian budget airline has already confirmed that it plans to add a flight schedule from Milan to Abu Dhabi at a later date.

CEO Jozsef Varadi acknowledges that fifteen to twenty years ago, he thought that three hours would test passenger tolerance. Therefore, he hopes that cost-conscious customers will be willing to ‘suffer the pain’ and that they have adapted to the no-thrills experience.

Intrigued to know if flying has

become all about the cost, Euro Weekly News asked its readers, “Would you fly long-haul on a nofrills budget airline?”

Of those who responded, there was a resounding ‘no’ from many; this accounted for 60 per cent of the responses we received.

Caz Bennett felt that not having a reclining seat would be the dealbreaker for her. She said, “No, I need at least a good reclining seat so I can get some sleep, or it ruins your time away. I took my mum to New York on Silver Jet. That was an experience I’ll never forget. I didn’t even have to go through passport control. Fully flat beds and champagne all the way.”

For Renee Koolen , comfort is also a key consideration. She shared, “I’d rather pay more than ruin the start of my trip looking for a chiropractor.”

Others, like Sam Espejo, said they would be willing to forgo luxury: “Yes, more money to spend on my vacation.”

Interestingly, others, like Karen Joy Harley, were not happy with long-haul flights in general and shared, “I have flown for 10 hours on a luxury airline but never again!! It was a horrendous experience, and it absolutely ruined my holiday!!”

For others, like Andrew Philip Coates , it depended on how much he would save; he said, “It wouldn’t be my first choice, but if it’s half the price, I would consider it ...”

Stairway showdown

ONE of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Spanish Steps, has sparked a legal and media controversy between France and Italy following a report by the French Court of Auditors.

The dispute revolves around France’s properties in Rome, with the report raising concerns about the maintenance of five French churches, including the Trinità dei Monti church, which stands atop the Spanish Steps.

While the report does not directly address the famous staircase, it highlights French involvement in the church’s upkeep, leading to a broader debate about the site’s ownership.

Historically, the Spanish Steps were commissioned by French kings, built with French funds, and designed by French architects.

This historical context led to the French Court

of Auditors affirming these facts, which some interpreted as a claim of French ownership over the Spanish Steps, linking them to France’s real estate portfolio in Rome.

This portfolio, which includes 180 rental properties, generates €4.5 million annually for the French government. However, complicating the situation is that since the late 19th cen -

tury, the maintenance and restoration of the Spanish Steps have been handled by the City of Rome and the Italian State.

Interestingly, despite the name, Spain is not involved in this ownership debate.

The “Spanish Steps” derive their name from the adjacent Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Square), not from any historical connection to Spain itself.

Image:

tilialucida / Shutterstock.com

Stairway showdown

An extreme sports enthusiast has just achieved the impossible, byying on a magic carpet. Video footage shot by a drone shows 44-yearold Freddy Montigny leaping into the air o a mountain top, before soaring through the sky as if by magic.

The stunt took place in the Vercors Massif mountain range in France, with Freddy choosing the 2,400 metre high Croix de Têtes as his

Aladdin: no longer a myth

launchpad. The Frenchman, who originally worked professionally as a drummer and stage technician, has spent years practising extreme sports and is no stranger to jumping from high places. He started paragliding when he was 25, skydiving at 30 and hang gliding when he turned 35, all of which he attributes to helping him achieve his dream of

ying on a carpet. Freddy now considers himself to be something of an expert in these sports, and is condent that his intimate knowledge of the Vercors mountains, in which he has practised his sports for many years, plus the heights he jumps from, mean that his carpet voyages are safe. In fact, in the video, shown on YouTube, Freddy con rms that

he allowed himself to y towards the ground with a descent to 1,600 metres before he felt it necessary to open his parachute. Magic carpets have been written about in folklore for centuries, although these days the ying carpet is most famously recognised for the part it played in the tale of Aladdin.

Flying high for all to see

Fall for Ireland

AUTUMN in Ireland is a lovely time to explore the Emerald Isle, where the countryside bursts into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Take a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way or visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views. Don’t miss out on Ireland’s historic castles, like Blarney Castle, Killarney National Park, where Ross Castle sits by the lakes, and Dublin Castle, where you can wander through centuries-old halls while enjoying the crisp autumn air.

Autumn also brings a variety of festivals, perfect for immersing yourself in local culture. The Derry Halloween Festival

and Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival are just a couple of highlights, showcasing delicious food, music, and a warm community spirit. Cosying up in a traditional pub is a must during your visit. Grab a pint of Guinness or a warming Irish whiskey while enjoying live music at spots in Temple Bar in Dublin like The Oliver St John Gogarty Bar. As for the weather, expect a mix of sunshine and rain, so layering is key. Pack a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes for those beautiful countryside hikes. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy your Irish adventure this autumn.

Fall in love with Ireland.

Image: Shutterstock/ Madrugada Verde

Photo

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Autumn gold fiesta

On Tuesday, October 15, enjoy tribute performances to Shania Twain, Tina Turner, Bon Jovi, and Thin Lizzy.

On Wednesday, October 16, the lineup includes tributes to Lady Gaga, Elvis and Friends, Fleetwood Mac, and Freddie Mercury.

Book your tickets early to take advantage of an early bird discount.

Children under 12 can

attend for free.

The event offers a range of ticket options, including Day and VIP tickets, which come with benefits such as free parking and access to pitches and cabins at the five-star Alannia Resort in Guardamar. Additionally, food is available at this seated event.

Tickets can be pur-

chased online at costablanca.events.

Strait to the hits

THE Sultans of Swing Band is set to pay tribute to the legendary British band Dire Straits at the Teatro Principal in Alicante.

This show will feature some of the greatest hits from Mark Knopfler and his band, including classics like “Tunnel of Love,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Money for Nothing,” “Walk of Life,” and of course, “Sultans of Swing.”

perto Chapí, s/n, 03001 Alicante.

For more information or to book tickets, you can visit the Teatro Principal in person, or call (+34) 965 203 100.

Tickets are available at the box office from midday until to 2:00.PM and from 5:00.PM until 9:00.PM, or by phone at (+34) 965 202 380.

For any enquiries, you can also

Get ready for 120 minutes of pure Dire Straits magic.

BUTTERFLIES

Open Tuesday to Saturday.

Closed Sunday and Monday

The Autumn Gold Fiesta promises two days of unforgettable tribute shows at a stunning five-star venue with easy access just off the N332.

For those looking to extend their experience, cabins, pitches, and glamping options can be booked via the Alannia website at alanniaresorts.com to create a mini break.

The band has carefully selected a top-notch repertoire, delivering an unforgettable performance that combines both musical and visual excellence.

It’s the best tribute show around for fans of the iconic British band that left a lasting legacy in rock history.

The concert will take place on October 24, at 8:30.PM at the Teatro Principal, located at Plaza Ru-

reach out via email at informacion@ teatroprincipaldealicante.com.

Image: Miguel Talavera & The Sultans of Swing Band / Facebook.

Image: Costa Blanca Events

Sell smarter with the Costa Blanca experts!

LOOKING to buy or sell property in the Ciudad Quesada and surrounding area? With rising prices choosing the right real estate agency could make all the difference. Lucky for you, we’re not just any real estate agency - we’re ‘Inmobiliaria Estate Agents’, the first and original estate agents of Ciudad Quesada since 1989. With over three decades of expertise under our belt, we’ve seen it all, from boom to bust, and we know how to navigate every market twist and turn.

Unlike those low-cost agents who seem to spend more time selling themselves than your home, we focus on one thing: YOU! Our selective, high-quality approach means every property we take on gets the star treatment. You won’t be lost in a sea of endless listings - we make sure your property shines and sells.

Our secret? It’s not rocket science; it’s simply good old-fashioned hard work and a personalised touch. We take pride in selling homes whe-

re others have failed, achieving the highest possible prices while maintaining a stress-free process. Oh, and did we mention we charge only 3 per cent in fees? That’s right - no hidden costs or surprise charges. We don’t tack on unnecessary fees for buyers either, leaving them more money to spend on your home. Why should they be paying

agent fees when they already have enough to deal with on legal costs?

If you’re worried about your property looking its best, don’t be. Our in-house photography team is here to make sure your home is captured in all its glory - whether that’s through stunning photos, detailed video walkthroughs, or breathtaking drone footage.

Add to that our unrivalled social media presence (seriously, we’re everywhere), and your property will be getting more exposure than a sunbather on the beaches of Torrevieja!

And let’s talk about awards for a second - we’ve won more customer service awards than we can count. You’re in safe hands with us. Whether it’s our communication, our pricing strategy, or just our friendly attitude, we’re here to make sure the selling process is as smooth and successful as possible.

Thinking of selling? Don’t settle for just any agent. Trust the experts who’ve been in the game longer than most have even known where Ciudad Quesada is on the map.

Give us a call today on (+34) 966 718 392 or shoot us an email at sales@homes4u.es.

Sell smarter with Inmobiliaria Estate Agents, where success meets service with a smile. (And yes, check out our ad in the centre spread of this newspaper - can’t miss it!)

Gibraltar Treaty talks

EVEN though it seems possible that there may be another postponement, the EES system to record non-EU passport holders entering Schengen is due to be implemented in November.

If it does go ahead then, it will have a major effect on Gibraltar both for those living there and the cross border Spanish workers. There now appears to be an element of urgency as on Thursday September 19, a meeting took place in Brussels between European Commission Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič, Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and the Chief Minister of Gibraltar Fabian Picardo. This was the third meeting at a political level and the first one in this format which saw the attendance of the new UK government.

BRIEF civic internships in the last years of high school could be Antwerp’s answer to uncivil youths.

This was the solution suggested by city mayor Bart De Wever in response to an incident in early September when three boys stole an ambulance. Taking advantage of the paramedics’ absence as they attended to a call in the Luchtbal area, the bored trio took the vehicle for a joyride.

De Wever wants to introduce placements in the last two years of high school for 17 and 18-year-olds with the aim of “instilling respect into youngsters,” he told the VRT broadcaster.

“I would do this during the next legislature,” he said.

“I want to require them to spend one week in the fifth year and one week in the sixth year of secondary school working in, for example, the city maintenance department or in an old people’s home.”

The mayor especially condemned what he saw as an increase in loutish behaviour towards firefighters,

A joint statement issued on behalf of all confirmed that the discussions were constructive and productive, resulting in further progress on the complex issues of negotiations, namely in the area of people and goods.

The meeting reaffirmed their shared commitment to concluding an EU-UK Agreement to bring confidence, legal certainty, and stability to the people of the whole region, while safeguarding all parties’ legal positions.

Apart from the fact that Gibraltar is the second largest employer of workers in the Campo de Gibraltar, easy access will be welcomed by those living within a 50 kilometre radius of Gibraltar as they will continue to have access to the airport rather than have to drive to Malaga for UK flights.

Need for respect

ambulance crews, doctors and social workers, but admitted that this was not limited to Antwerp alone.

“We are recording more and more cases of violence and thuggish behaviour against anyone perceived to represent authority,” De We-

ver said.

He blamed the problem on youths, many of them non-European, who had been raised in “challenging circumstances” and were often linked to criminal organisations.

The representatives at the September 19 meeting.

Credit: Ben Dance / FCDO flickr

Message in a bottle

A TEAM of student archaeologists made a remarkable discovery in northern France this week while excavating a Gaulish village near Dieppe.

Sifting through ancient remains on a cli -top, they uncovered an unexpected communication from the early 19th century.

The dig, led by Guillaume Blondel, head of the archaeological service for the town of Eu, took a fascinating turn on Monday when the students found an earthenware pot containing a small glass ask.

A message in a bottle provides a glimpse into the past

Inside the ask was a rolled-up, stringtied note, a rare time capsule from the past.

The note read: “P.J Feret, a native of Dieppe, member of various intellectual societies, carried out excavations here in January 1825. He continues his investigations in this vast area known as the Cite de Limes or Caesar’s Camp.”

“It was an absolutely magic moment,” said Blondel, who was surprised by the discovery, “We knew there had been excavations here in the past, but to nd this message from 200 years ago… it was a total surprise.”

Blondel quipped, “Sometimes you see

time capsules left by carpenters in buildings, but it’s very rare in archaeology. Most archaeologists prefer to think that there won’t be anyone coming after them because they’ve done all the work!” Municipal records con rm that Feret’s excavation was one of the rst at this Gaulish settlement. Although it’s known that the site dates back over 2,000 years to the Gaulish period, many details about its function remain unclear.

In just one week of excavation, the team has uncovered several artefacts, primarily pottery fragments, and the discovery of Feret’s message, shedding light on life in the village centuries ago.

A SUPERMARKET in the Netherlands, Jumbo, launched a ‘flirt hour’ for singles, using popular Dutch biscuits, helping customers to score a potential date.

While Tinder may be the preference of some, people are saving up time by looking for dates and grocery shopping at the same time. Inspired by a Spanish TikTok trend, in which Mercadona customers use coded language to signal their interest, Jumbo similarly launched ‘flirt hour’ from 6pm until 7pm.

In Mercadona, instead of complimenting a person who caught your attention, customers place a pineapple upside down in their trolleys, signalling to others that they’re single and ready to mingle.

In Jumbo, a similar code has been popularised, as singles place the Dutch biscuits, ‘beschuits’, upside down in their trolley, inviting a potential partner for a

Flirt hour

date and dessert.

Although neither of the supermarket chains have claimed responsibility for the trend, social media users comment that the trend is likely to be a new form of marketing. A past contestant of the Spanish reality show First Dates, cinejavi on X commented; “They (Mercadona) have been trying to place this viral campaign for seven years.”

While pineapple is believed to be associated with hospitality and swingers; people in couples who experiment in switching partners, biscuits have no apparent romantic connotations. With social media and digital marketing today, it seems that just about any product can attain a new meaning, making lowkey flirting easier and more playful than ever.

Credit: Freestocks, Pexels

Flirt biscuits.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Cutting down

METRO BANK announced a series of job cuts as it carries out an £80 million (€95 million) plan to reduce costs. It expects to slash 300 posts in business operations, IT and support, following the £925 million (€1.1 billion) rescue operation in 2023 when Colombian billionaire Jaime Gilinski Bacal took control of the bank.

No problem

MADRID approved BlackRock’s 20 per cent holding in gas and energy company Naturgy, which is regarded as a nationally strategic company. The world’s largest asset manager acquired the Naturgy shares on taking over Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) in a $12.5 billion (€10.8 billion) deal in January 2025.

Fair dues

BIG FOUR accountancy firm Deloitte revealed that it plans to equalise parental leave for all staff in the UK in January 2025 by giving men the same 26 weeks of leave on full pay now received by women. It hopes this will make it easier for more women to progress in their careers and become partners, Deloitte said.

New look

FASHION company Adolfo Dominguez reported €126.7 million in sales for the year ending February 29, 2024, compared with €114.18 million in 2023, and a net income of €730,185. This was an improvement on 20222023’s €158,656 although the company posted losses of €1.4 million between February and May 2024.

Payback time

INDUSTRY regulator Ofgem has ordered Ovo, the UK’s fourth-largest household energy supplier, to pay

£2.37 million (€2.81 million) in compensation to 1,395 customers owing to the time it took the Bristol-based company to deal with their complaints. In some cases these took up to 18 months to process, Ofgen said.

STAT OF WEEK

€1.498 trillion

gross domestic product for Spain in 2023, after the National Statistics Institute revised its original growth estimate by two-10ths of a percentage point to 2.7 per cent.

Pret’s first billion

PRET A MANGER sales reached £1.1 billion (€1.3 billion) for the first time in 2023 as the UK sandwich chain expanded overseas.

Pret revealed that £1 (€1.19) of every £4 (€4.75) that customers spent on its sandwiches and coffee now came from outside the UK.

The chain owned by Luxembourg-headquartered German conglomerate JAB Holding opened 81 new shops in 2023. More than 50 per cent were located in Canada, India, Greece and Spain, where Pret has outlets in Madrid, Barcelona and Lanzarote.

There was also ‘significant’ progress in the US, where Pret has opened new sites on the East Coast.

Although the business remained ‘proudly British-based and British-built’ and would continue to expand across the UK, the company revealed that a major part of Pret’s future growth plan was international.

The 2023 results had helped to drive a 12 per cent rise in underlying profits to £166 million (€197.1 million), which allowed the group to meet its target of doubling the volume of business three years ahead of schedule.

“We set ourselves some tough targets to get Pret

CESAR GONZALEZ-BUENO, chief executive of Banco Sabadell, said there was little chance of a hostile takeover bid by its rival BBVA bank.

Speaking at the Foro Banca forum held in Madrid on September 16, Gonzalez-Bueno added that the proposed €12 billion deal had “practically derailed.”

Also present at the forum was Peio Belausteguigoitia, head of BBVA Spain, who said that the decision rested with Sabadell’s shareholders.

“In the end, they are the owners,” he maintained.

going again after the pandemic, and we have delivered,” chief executive Pano Christou said.

Nevertheless, the company was aware that although 2024’s first half sales of £569 million (€675.7 million) were 10 per cent up on 2023, this was approximately half of the sales growth during the same period last year.

Comparable same-store sales growth had also fallen to 3 per cent during the first half of 2024, compared with 15 per cent in 2023.

Takeover ‘derailment’ claim

Gonzalez-Bueno also criticised BBVA for not providing enough in-

End of an era No change

BRITAIN’S annual inflation rate held steady at 2.2 per cent in August, with no change on the July figure.

This was slightly above the Bank of England’s 2 per cent target but matched the predictions of a Reuters’ poll of economists and was lower than the Bank’s 2.4 per cent forecast.

Petrol prices had fallen, the Office for National Statistics(ONS) figures showed, but airfares rose, especially those to European destinations.

HARLAND & WOLFF, eternally associated with the Belfast shipyard that built the Titanic, is entering administration for the second time in five years.

The company had been unsuccessful in trying to fund new funding and announced on September 16 that it was insolvent. It planned to appoint administrators “imminently” although the administration process would be limited to Harland & Wolff Group Holdings and the operational companies running the yards were expected to continue trading.

All shareholders would probably lose their money, Harland & Wolff said, although sources revealed that around 20 companies were interested in acquiring parts of the business in a sales procedure carried out by investment bank Rothschild.

THE Guardian Media Group (GMG) is said to be talks to sell The Observer.

News website Tortoise Media reportedly approached the GMG, which acquired the newspaper in 1993, with a takeover offer. No financial details were revealed although The Observer, with a 105,000 print circulation was unlikely to fetch a high price, insiders said.

Meanwhile, GMG announced that total revenue fell 2.5 per cent to £257.8 million (€306.3 million) during its last financial year owing to an advertising slowdown and ‘sustained structural pressures on print.’

AMAZON staff will be back in the office five days a week once its hybrid work policy comes to an end in January 2025.

formation for a balanced decision.

“We aren’t seeing transparency for shareholders,” he said. “We miss that.”

Sabadell chief executive argued that BBVA was not being clear about the cost involved should the takeover go ahead.

BBVA expects to save €300 million in staff costs and plans to close 300 branches, while sources with inside knowledge of the proposed deal have predicted that 4,000 jobs would be lost.

“We’re going to return to the office and the way we were before the onset of Covid,” chief executive Andy Jassy said, explaining that it would help staff “to invent, collaborate, and be sufficiently connected to each other.”

In Spain, where Amazon has a total of 25,000 permanent employees, this will affect approximately 5,000 people who work in the company’s offices.

FORTY PER CENT of phone users in Spain would be prepared to move from traditional operators like Movistar, MasOrange or Vodafone to a low-cost company.

After questioning users in Spain, the UK, France, Italy and Germany, a survey by management consulting company Oliver Wyman found that the Italians were most inclined to move to a cheaper company, with 45 per cent happy to switch. They were followed by the Spanish, where 72 per cent are clients of traditional companies but 40 per cent would change to the low-cost companies which offer services practically identical to those of the big operators.

HIGH speed train operator Iryo lost €79 million in 2023 after an investment totalling €900 million. Competing against Spain’s state-owned Renfe and French company Ouigo, 2023 was the first year Iryo had simultaneously operated its three main routes linking Madrid with Catalonia, Levante and Andulucia.Iryo is the brand name of the private high speed railway company, Intermodalidad de Levante, which is jointly owned by Italy’s publicly-owned Trenitalia, regional airline Air Nostrum and the Spanish infrastructure investment fund Globalvia.

GROWING: Pret a Manger expanding in UK and abroad.

Photo credit: grupobancsabadell

CESAR GONZALEZ-BUENO: Not happening Sabadell chief executive said.

3I Group 3.293,00 3.293,00 3.279,00 35,52K

Admiral Group 2.892,0 2.897,0 2.867,0 51,65K

Airtel Africa 118,20 118,20 115,70 50,55K

Anglo American 2.180,5 2.192,5 2.173,2 59,88K

Antofagasta 1.841,00 1.850,00 1.833,50 63,42K

Ashtead Group 5.724,0 5.760,0 5.718,0 10,21K

Associated British Foods 2.244,0 2.248,0 2.234,0 28,91K

AstraZeneca 11.884,0 11.900,0 11.816,0 66,97K

Auto Trader Group Plc 881,29 885,20 880,40 30,02K

Aviva 496,20 499,30 495,60 292,79K

B&M European Value Retail SA 425,00 428,00 424,00 47,9K

BAE Systems 1.290,50 1.291,50 1.282,00 156,28K

Barclays 226,90 227,15 225,95 1,12M

Barratt Developments 506,60 509,80 505,20 48,61K

Beazley 772,00 775,00 770,00 38,66K

Berkeley 4.912,0 4.950,0 4.903,0 2,79K

BP 411,25 413,90 411,05 2,18M

British American Tobacco 2.812,0 2.825,0 2.795,0 224,82K

BT Group 144,65 145,99 143,70 900,34K Bunzl 3.606,0 3.614,0 3.596,0 12,89K Burberry Group 601,8 607,0 595,0 214,18K

118,25 118,70 117,80 315,06K

Cola HBC AG 2.756,0 2.762,0 2.752,0 7,49K

2.420,00 2.422,00

BUSINESS

Not so dear

MOBILE phone prices fell 11.7 per cent in August, latest figures from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE) revealed. Computers were 5.9 per cent cheaper, INE said, owing to a wider technology offer and fewer people who worked from home.

Home grown

BRITAIN eats 60,000 tons of blueberries annually, of which 90 per cent are imported, although sales of home-produced blueberries rose by 13 per cent this year. “Everyone thinks blueberries are a tropical fruit grown abroad,” the British Berry Growers (BBG) trade association said.

Issa steps down

MOHSIN ISSA has resigned as Asda chairman and will be replaced by the company’s chairman Lord Stuart Rose.

While Rose takes on the day-to-day running of Asda, Issa remains a minority co-owner and a non-executive board member but will concentrate on his petrol station forecourts business, EG Group. Rose, who was execu -

tive chairman of Marks & Spencer until 2010 and chairman until 2011, said last August that he was “embarras sed” by Asda’s underperfor mance and ca lled on Issa to resign.

Asda’s sales fell by 5.5

Iberdrola waiver

THE Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has approved the takeover of Central Maine Power’s parent company Avangrid by Iberdrola, its largest shareholder.

The PUC agreed on September 17 that Central Maine Power could omit the required state review of the $2.5 billion (€2.25 billion) transaction that would put Avangrid under the full control of the Bil-

bao-based energy giant.

In a 2-1 vote, the state regulators finally agreed to waive the assessment that allowed the Spanish multinational to acquire the remaining 18.4 per cent of Avangrid which it did not already own. Earlier, Fitch Ratings had said that the deal would be positive for Avangrid, which could now benefit from the ‘financial flexibility’ of Iberdrola.

per cent over the past 12 months and the chain’s market share has dropped from 13.1 per cent to 11.8 per cent.

“We respect Mohsin’s decision to move on from his role at Asda, where his work is complete, to be the sole CEO of EG Group,” Rose said on September 18.

“He has laid the foundations to deliver a world-class IT infrastructure, strengthening Asda for the long term.”

According to the Telegraph earlier this year, Asda was prepared to pay a new, topflight chief executive between £8 million (€9.5 million) and £10 million (€11.9 million). At the time, this had failed to lure candidates, presumably owing to Issa’s continued involvement in the supermarket chain.

Wage scale

THE Ferrovial board was paid €25.5 million during the first half of 2024, 45 per cent more than in 2024, the Spanish multinational announced. The infrastructure company which now lists in New York as well as Spain, attributed the pay rise to ‘short-term and longterm bonuses’ and the ‘significant’ increase in Ferrovial’s share price from €26.773 to €36.045.

Going nuclear

THE Czech government has chosen Rolls-Royce to build mini nuclear power plants for state-owned energy company, CEZ. France, the US and Japan had also bid for the contract to supply the small modular reactions (SMRs), the first of which will be located near the Temelin nuclear power station and should be completed before 2035.

MOHSIN ISSA: Remains on Asda board as non-executive director

Curbing the youth crime wave

LEAPY LEE

SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

Personally, I don’t think that the young crime wave, which is at the moment practically engulfing the UK, has very little to do with the countries lack of police resources. I believe a large part of the blame can be firmly apportioned to the breakdown of the family unit. Huge numbers of families across the UK have for years taken full advantage of the liberal benefit policies of successive governments. Child benefits have been a particularly lucrative source of earnings. Consequently, many children have been conceived and born purely to add to the family income. This has resulted in enormous dysfunctional families, particularly those to whom benefits are a way of life and the children merely a means to a financial end. There is no love or guidance in these families. Once the children’s purpose has been served, they are left to roam the streets with no sense of decency or compassion for their fellow human beings what-

soever. How could there be when there have been no examples of it at home? Once let loose, they link up with likeminded offspring of their fellow dysfunctional neighbors and begin to run riot. They soon begin to realise, that the impossibly priced electronic devices and expensive ‘toys’ they have been bombarded with on television, are completely out of their financial reach, even if they took a ‘proper’ job. So, they turn to crime. This includes knifing and a positive plethora of young murder victims, fatalities who now seem to be publicised for a day or two and then forgotten! How many are being injured and never even mentioned in the media, I dread to think. To be honest I can see no answer to the immediate situation. Lock up as many of them as possible I suppose, assuming there’s enough room! As to the future, only allowing child benefits for up to two children would be a start. At least this would curb the temptation to pour even more unwanted and unloved future criminals into our society. More police are certainly needed, but only because the num-

bers of young criminals have escalated so alarmingly. I would like to see Boot camps built all across the country, where these young offenders can be sent to learn discipline, values and respect for their fellow human beings. Trades could be taught. Even simply showing someone actually cares may rescue at least a proportion of them that can be released to become valued members of society. Finally, digressing to other problems always close to my heart; there is still a relatively easy way to stop the war in the East. Give back the Israeli hostages, unharmed and well. Stop terrorist organisations lobbing missiles from adjoining countries into Israel, sit down at the table and accept the terms already offered a number of times and subsequently refused. Only then can we get back to the peaceful existence revered by most. Otherwise it will only get worse, finishing up Lord knows where. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to know it makes sense!

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.

Zurich’s public transport

THE European Commission’s ‘Quality of Life in European Cities, 2023’ report ranks Zurich, Switzerland as the top city for public transport satisfaction. An impressive 95 per cent of Zurich’s residents are happy with the city’s clean and punctual trams, buses and trains.

For expatriates, good public transport can make or break daily life, and Zurich’s investment in its integrated network offers reliability.

Vienna follows closely with 91 per cent satisfaction. The Austrian capital’s affordable and extensive system is praised for its efficiency. Helsinki also ranks high, with 89 per cent of residents satisfied thanks to its modern, eco-friendly transport options, including ferries for scenic island trips.

Stockholm, Sweden, also impresses with 88 per cent satisfaction, offering sustainable and reliable options that cater to eco-conscious commuters.

However, the report highlights that not all cities fare as well. Rome, Italy, struggles with just 29 per cent satisfaction due to frequent delays, overcrowding and outdated infrastructure.

For those considering a move to Europe, public transport is an essential factor. Having reliable modes of transport makes navigating city life easier and more enjoyable.

Scent stack success

PERFUME layering is the art of combining different fragrances to create a unique, personalised scent. It involves applying various products, such as body lotions, oils, and perfumes, either from the same fragrance family or different ones that complement each other. The process can begin with a lightly scented shower gel, followed by a matching or complementary body lotion, and finally topped with a spritz of perfume or cologne.

The goal of layering is to enhance the longevity and depth of a scent, allowing it to evolve throughout the day. By blending fragrances, you can tailor your scent to your mood, occasion, or personal preferences, ensuring it’s both distinctive and memorable. Perfume layering offers a creative way to experiment with aromas, giving you more control over how strong or subtle your fragrance is, and helping it last longer without overwhelming your senses.

Buff and brighten

EXFOLIATION is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, promoting a smoother, brighter complexion. Regular exfoliation helps prevent clogged pores, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and allows skincare products to penetrate more effectively. However, it’s important to exfoliate safely to avoid damaging the

There are two main types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves scrubbing with tools like brushes or grainy exfoliators. Opt for gentle scrubs with fine particles and avoid over-scrubbing to prevent irritation. Chemical exfoliants, such as those containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), dissolve dead skin

cells without harsh scrubbing. These are ideal for sensitive skin and can be found in toners or serums. Exfoliating one to three times a week is usually sufficient, depending on your skin type. Over-exfoliating can lead to redness, dryness, and sensitivity, so it’s important to find a balance that works for you and your skin’s needs.

THE world of beauty is full of unusual trends, and some of the strangest facials have gained a cult following for their supposed benefits.

Three of the weirdest treatments include bee sting facials, bird poo masks, and snail slime facials.

Bee sting facials involve using products that contain bee venom, which is said to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, helping to firm the skin and reduce wrinkles.

The sensation mimics a mild sting, and it’s belie-

Slime, stings and droppings

The bird poo facial, also known as the ‘geisha facial’, uses sanitised nightingale droppings. This ancient Japanese treatment is praised for its ability to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation, thanks to its natural enzymes and urea content.

Snail slime facials are another strange but popular option.

Snail mucin is packed with nutrients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and an-

FOR those short on time, money, or both, DIY hair repair treatments can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, breakage, or frizz, there are effective home remedies that offer an affordable and convenient alternative to salon treatments. Common kitchen

tioxidants, which help to hydrate, heal, and smooth the skin. While the concept might

DIY repair

ingredients like coconut oil, honey, and eggs can be used to create nourishing hair masks that replenish moisture and strengthen weak strands. Coconut oil, for example, is excellent for deep conditioning and can be left on overni -

sound odd, many swear by its hydrating and regenerative properties.

ght for an intense treatment.

Additionally, avoiding heat styling tools and overwashing can do wonders for improving hair health. Letting hair air-dry or using cool settings on hairdryers helps to

reduce heat damage. With a little patience and creativity, DIY treatments can achieve impressive results. Regular trims, even if you do them yourself, also help keep hair healthy by preventing split ends from worsening. This shows that you don’t need to spend a fortune to maintain beautiful, healthy hair.

NEKO HEALTH, co-founded by Spotify’s Daniel Ek and entrepreneur Hjalmar Nilsonne, is shaking up healthcare with its futuristic body MOTs. The company aims to move healthcare from symptom-based treatment to proactive disease prevention. But while the techno logy promises early detec tion, critics argue it could deepen health inequalities and add pressure to public health systems like the NHS.

Full-body MOTs

Launched in 2022, Neko sers, and radar to conduct full-body scans, detecting potential health issues before symptoms appear. These scans track skin changes, assess cardiovascular health, and collect millions of data points,

all for £300 (€355). The clinic claims early detection can reduce the burden of chronic disease, which makes up 70 per cent of healthcare costs.

However, health experts warn these services may increase inequality, as wealthier individuals access screenings while at-risk groups miss out. Additionally, the strain on public health services is a concern, as minor fin-

dings from private screenings often require NHS follow-ups.

Despite the controversy, demand is growing. Neko Health’s Stockholm clinic has a waiting list of 20,000 people, with its London location set to follow suit. Whether this approach truly improves health outcomes or creates more challenges remains to be seen.

Antibiotic

resistance

ANTIBIOTIC resistance poses a grave threat to global health, with projections indicating over 39 million deaths by 2050 due to drug-resistant infections, accor. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria evolve, rendering antibiotics ineffective. This is particularly worrying for the elderly and those requiring surgeries, as dwindling antibiotic

tions, and this number is expected to rise by 68 per cent by 2050. The overuse of antibiotics in healthcare, agriculture and animal farming has contributed to the rise of superbugs, making this not only a medical but also an environmental issue.

Lower-income countries will be hardest hit, though high-income regions like Europe are not immune. The slow pace of antibiotic development exacerbates the problem, as bacteria evolve quickly, often outpacing medical innovations. Health experts are calling for stricter regulations on antibiotic use, particularly in agriculture, and increased public awareness. Reducing antibiotics in food production and improving infection control could help slow the rise of AMR.

The UN General Assembly is set to address AMR in upcoming discussions, urging global cooperation to combat this escalating threat. Simple actions, such as reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and staying informed on public health policies are vital.

Costa del Sol

Bienvenido Charlie Mullins

Charlie Mullins, founder of Pimlico Plumbers and known as the ‘world’s richest plumber,’ has moved to Marbella. His rags-to-riches story won admiration, though his lifestyle was often criticised. Formerly a Tory donor, he has lost faith in the Conservatives and fears the Labour government could cause further harm.

“I have moved all my assets out of the UK. This government will break Britain. They are anti-business and despise wealth creation.”

Mullins advises young people to pursue apprenticeships, stating, “Being a plumber, you can learn as much as any bank manager.”

His drive, he says, comes from his father’s strong work ethic. Although he has no plans to repurchase Pimlico Plumbers, his family is launching Wefix London, offering high-quality tradespeople.

He praised Spanish tradespeople, saying, “The quality here is better than in the UK.”

Axarquia Farewell Summer

THE Under Dog, an animal rescue service, in the Axarquia area, dedicated to helping forgotten and challenging cats and dogs, celebrated a successful End of Summer picnic. The event brought together dog lovers and their pets, raising an impressive €503 through donations. Organisers were thrilled with the turnout, which helps cover ongoing expenses for the rescue.

As cooler weather approaches, The Under Dog is excited to start organising walks and hikes for their foster dogs. Anyone interested in joining can get in touch—the dogs love outdoor adventures!

The rescue’s next event, ‘Bubbles & Bargains,’ will take place on Saturday, October 19, from 1 pm to 5 pm. Featuring their friend Ness, a talented sommelier, the event promises a fun mix of shopping and bubbly. Contact The Under Dog for more details at theunderdogspain.com!

Mallorca Stranded Until Saved

A 33-year-old man found himself in need of help last Sunday, September 22 when exploring the coastline of Cala Morlanda, near Manacor. According to a report from the local fire service, firemen from the Parque de Manacor were deployed at around 11.40 that morning to assist lifeguards and police in the rescue of the man when he found himself trapped within a small coastal cave.

The man had entered the tiny cave of his own accord, but for some reason was unable to exit it without assistance, and was lucky to find himself with access to a bubble of air which enabled him to breath and kept him safe until the emergency services arrived.

Despite the rescue mission costing time and resources from the ambulance service, as well as the Manacor local police, the National police, the fire service and lifeguards, the man was reported to have been in a stable enough condition to walk away from the scene himself once he was free to

Costa Blanca North Turning Japanese

If you were in Villajoyosa recently, you may have noticed an influx of Japanese culture due to the Japanese Manga and Culture Fair, which took over the coastal town. Organised by the Department of Youth and Villajoyosa Town Council, the event drew enthusiasts from across the Alicante Province.

Despite the rain, attendees arrived in costume and embraced the activities and workshops. The fourth edition of the fair featured a variety of Japanese-themed events such as Pokeball crafting, origami workshops, and hamma demonstrations. Visitors also enjoyed Japanese calligraphy, soft combat tournaments, card games, archery, and live role-playing.

Other highlights included Pokemon geocaching, an escape room challenge, dance sessions, film screenings, karaoke, and board games. Exhibitions of bonsai and kimonos added to the cultural richness of the event.

The Japanese Manga and Culture Fair was a resounding success.

Almeria

Candlelight and Stars

Residents and visitors of the Mojacar old town experienced a magical night of music and culture, surrounded by thousands of candles.

At 8 pm on Saturday, all artificial lights in Mojacar Pueblo were turned off, and more than 7,000 candles were placed and lit around the village, illuminating the town and creating a “magical atmosphere.”

Filling the cobbled streets was live music, from traditional Andalucian music to jazz, in addition to the thrilling fire dancers and marching drummers.

The mayor of Mojacar, Fran Garcia, emphasised the importance of this event, stating “The Night of the Candles is one of our most treasured festivities,” Garcia says, “It is a night to show the beauty of our municipality with unique illumination.”

The annual event displays Mojacar in a new light, celebrating community, culture and tradition under a starry night surrounded by tallow light.

Costa Calida FAST Care

FAST, the First Aid Support Team on Camposol shines through all weather conditions to support its essential services. Made up of dedicated volunteers, FAST plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between medical emergencies and ambulance arrival. Their tireless efforts ensure that help is always on hand when it’s needed most.

The team is deeply grateful for the generous donations from the community, which are vital for covering their monthly operating costs. Their monthly operating costs of around €2,000 are vital for maintaining their lifesaving services. Every contribution helps maintain their lifesaving services, allowing them to provide first-aid assistance to those in need. The cheerful waves and support from locals reflect a strong sense of community solidarity. FAST’s commitment to serving Camposol, regardless of the weather, highlights its passion for keeping everyone safe and healthy. Together, they ensure that help is always just a moment away.

PETS

Walk without worry

IF your dog is frightened of other dogs, it’s important to take steps to prevent negative experiences that may deepen their fear. Remember, even the best-trained dogs can have unpredictable moments, so sticking to certain rules is crucial, especially in the beginning. Avoid taking your dog to crowded areas or dog parks,

as these environments can overwhelm them. Instead, focus on providing a safe buffer zone during walks. This might mean crossing the street, waiting at the top of a driveway for another dog to pass, or carefully stepping into the street to put a parked car between your pup and an approaching dog. Never yell at your dog or force

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Promoting awareness

WORLD RABIES DAY, observed on September 28, raises awareness about rabies prevention and control. Rabies is a deadly virus that affects both animals and humans, typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.

interactions with other dogs; instead, comfort them and allow them to feel secure in your presence.

Be an advocate for your dog’s needs. If someone asks if their dog can say ‘hi,’ politely decline and continue your walk. With patience and understanding, you can help your dog feel more confident over time.

Symptoms of rabies in dogs include fever, excessive drooling, aggression, difficulty swallowing, and paralysis. Once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal. In humans, symptoms can range from flu-like signs to anxiety, confusion, and hallucinations, leading to death if untreated.

To protect your dog from rabies, ensure they receive regular vaccinations. The rabies vaccine is highly effective and should be part of your dog’s routine care. Additionally, keep your dog away

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FUEL prices in Spain have fallen again to new annual lows and return to affordable prices.

Since late September 2023, prices have dropped significantly, with petrol decreasing by nearly 15 per cent and diesel by more than 13 per cent, ending 2023 at their lowest levels of the year.

Currently, filling up a 55-litre petrol tank costs around €85.25, approximately €10 cheaper than the same time last year, when the cost was €95.20.

For diesel, the same tank now costs around €78, €11 less than in September 2023 when it was €89.10.

These lower prices bring fuel costs below what they were before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. On February 22, 2022, diesel was priced at €1.479 per litre and petrol at €1.591 per litre, compared to the current €1.418 per litre of diesel and €1.55 per litre of petrol.

Fuel prices Animal collisions

Diesel has been cheaper than petrol for 79 consecutive weeks, following its initial increase when diesel became more expensive than petrol from August 2022 until mid-February 2023. Since then, petrol has regained its position as the more expensive fuel.

In comparison to other European nations, Spain’s fuel prices re-

main below the EU and Eurozone averages.

The price of 95 unleaded petrol in Spain is currently below the EU average of €1.67 per litre and the Eurozone average of €1.716.

Similarly, diesel in Spain is cheaper than the EU average of €1.547 per litre and the Eurozone average of €1.567.

DRIVERS on the A-355 recently between Coin and Marbella could not believe what they were seeing. A horse had escaped and was trotting along the busy road causing traffic jams.

There are around 14,000 road accidents a year in Spain caused by roaming animals. Whether a dog, horse, or wild boar etc. do you know what to do if it happens to you?

Firstly, keep a mental note of what kilometre you are at along the road. Signs at each exit usually indicate this. Stop the car safely at the side of the road and put on the hazard lights. Resist approaching the creature as hurt animals may act aggressively. If the animal is on the road, call 112. If it is off the road and not a danger to other motorists, call SEPRONA, the nature wing of the Guardia Civil on 062.

Fuel prices have dropped to annual lows.

THE FIRST COMPLETE ROLLSROYCE - THE SILVER DAWN

By Mark Slack ROAD

TEST

For the first 40 years of its existence, Rolls-Royce built only rolling chassis that fitted onto independent coachbuilders bodywork specified by the customer. It wasn’t until the late 1940s that the marque produced its first complete car – the Silver Dawn.

Although Rolls-Royce suspended car production between 1939 and 1945 to focus on building aero engines, most notably of course the Merlin for amongst other aircraft the Spitfire, design work on a new car continued in the background.

During the 1930s, Rolls-Royce offered three models, each of which included numerous parts that were unique to it and could not be shared between them. This significantly increased the manufacturing costs per car, which quickly became unsustainable during the austerity of the post-war years. Rolls-Royce therefore faced the problem of reducing production costs without compromising quality or per-

seems obvious now but back then it was somewhat of a revelation, there would be a new engine that could be offered in straight-four, six or eight-cylinder variants, and a single chassis that could be configured in variable dimensions. These ideas came together in a deve-

would be known as the ‘Rationalised Range’. In 1946, Rolls-Royce launched the first such model: the Silver Wraith. Like its predecessor, and indeed all the pre-war models, the Silver Wraith was a rolling chassis designed to be fitted with third-party, coachbuilt bodywork.

Rolls-Royce knew that to be commercially successful it needed a model that was less expensive and could be produced in greater numbers than was possible with traditional coachbuilding. So, for the first time in its history, Rolls-Royce decided to produce a complete car, with in-house coachwork.

an

The Silver Dawn, was launched in 1949, initially only as an export car and it finally became available in the UK in 1952. Of the 761 Silver Dawns produced, most were supplied with the ‘Standard Steel’ four-door saloon bodies produced in-house. But in deference to customer requirements, it was also offered as a rolling chassis, with some 64 coach-built examples completed until 1955.

As further proof of the Rationalised Range approach, by 1952, clients could specify both the smaller, complete Silver Dawn and larger Silver Wraith rolling chassis with automatic transmission. Indeed, the Silver Dawn would be among the very last Rolls-Royce models to be offered with a manual transmission.

Dubois devastates

ANTHONY Joshua missed out on the chance to become three-time world heavyweight champion after being knocked out by rival Daniel Dubois in the fifth round.

The two British fighters went toe to toe at Wembley Stadium in front of 96,000 fans. Although favourite to win, Joshua began the fight immediately on the defensive and was knocked down by a right to the chin in the first round. This was the first of four times he would have to pick himself up off the canvas.

Dubois kept up the onslaught in the second and third rounds, which saw him catch his opponent with a huge left hook, leaving Joshua on the ropes. He then continued with a series of hits to the head that would send Joshua down

for a second time.

Dubois dominated in all of the opening four rounds and defended his IBF heavyweight belt with a devastating overhand right to Joshua’s chin one minute into the fifth round. In the wake of the defeat, fans are wondering about Joshua’s future plans.

Joshua had been confident to win Saturday’s fight and take home the heavyweight championship, followed by taking on the victor of December’s Tyson Fury - Oleksandr Usyk rematch. Instead, it appears Joshua is set to face Dubois in a rematch again sometime next year.

The result came as a huge blow to Joshua, who had been tipped to win and entered the ring in good form after having won his previous four fights.

Anthony Joshua fails to win title.