NOT too long ago, when the Madrid heat hit oven mode, locals would set their GPS for the Costa Brava or Cadiz coast. But times change.
These days, more capital residents are ditching their city for a quick five-hour dash down south to Axarquia, according to Andalucia Informa. Destination: Nerja.
And it’s not hard to see why. ‘The Jewel of Axarquia’ looks like a Caribbean paradise with its crystal waters and golden sand. In addition, your wallet doesn’t complain after three rounds of cañas and some fried fish.
From Madrid, getting to Nerja is dead simple: leave
the M-30, point the car south, and before you know it, the beautiful Mediterranean Sea is in front of you. The microclimate in Nerja is a winner: less wind, warmer
Bring home a tail
VELEZ-MALAGA is aiming to become a model and modern town for animal adoptions. Now, it’s easier than ever to welcome a furry friend into your home.
The local Animal Adoption Service maintains an up-to-date online catalogue that shows all dogs and cats available for adoption in the region. Since October 2024, 28 animals from the Parque Zoosanitario Municipal have found homes.
Interested adopters can simply browse the online catalogue available on the town hall’s official website. Those
interested can also visit the Don Animal Canine and Feline Residence in Arroyo Granadillas, Rincon de la Victoria.
All adoptions are free, with only basic veterinary costs required. Prospective adopters can contact the team responsible for adoptions via phone ( 952 971 663 ) or email ( info@donani mal.com ). Or, even easier, can fill out the adoption form online.
The initiative encourages responsible adoption, discouraging abandonment. The ultimate goal is to find safe and loving homes for all the animals.
nights, so forget packing that sweater.
And it’s not just the ‘madrileños’ falling in love.
Nerja’s having a full-blown boom in recent
months, with foreigners (especially from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, and the UK) not only visiting the town, but even settling in as residents.
Fair’s great success
LAST week’s El Morche Fair was hailed as ‘an unprecedented success’ by Torrox authorities.
From day one of the event, thousands flocked to the fair, enjoying concerts, shows, and the emotional procession of the Virgen del Carmen. Headliners included some well-known Spanish artists, and it was all free for the public.
And there was more. Spectacular fireworks, sailor-themed illuminations, and spotless organisation added to the festival’s success.
The mayor of Torrox, Óscar Medina, promised that future editions will be “even bigger and brighter.” He celebrated the teamwork of residents, associations, and local groups. Medina also praised the efforts of police, health services, and volunteers who kept the event safe and welcoming.
Plans are already in motion to expand the fairgrounds eastward, reclaiming coastal land to extend the promenade and open new cultural spaces.
A shiba ini dog drinking water during a beach walk.
Credit: Julija Kumpinovica/Shutterstock
Credit: Florian Augustin/Shutterstock
Work boom in Nerja
NERJA’S job market is on a winning streak, with unemployment dropping 18 per cent in the past year.
According to the latest figures, there are now 226 fewer people out of work compared to July 2024. In a town with about 22,000 inhabitants, that’s a positive trend that has been building for months.
The results prove the impact of local policies boosting essential sectors like tourism and services. And boosting employment remains a priority for Nerja, town officials say.
The goal is to support as many stable and quality jobs as possible.
Employment councillor Ángela Díaz highlighted ongoing efforts to promote training, entrepreneurship, and hiring, especially for young people and those facing barriers to the labour market.
Stronger shield for victims
AN upgraded safety plan to better protect victims of gender-based violence is now available in Rincon de la Victoria.
The revised protocol is part of the VioGen-2 system launched nationwide on June 30, 2025, which sharpens how police assess risk, follow up on cases, and share information. The system is based on the latest instruction from Spain’s State Secretariat for Security, and it’s designed to speed up responses and ensure that judicial protection measures are enforced without gaps.
An important update is the real-time coordination between Local Police, the Guardia Civil, and the National Police unit in Andalucia. It also comes with streamlined access to the SIGO police database for Rincon’s officers. In addition, it includes a unified action plan so different forces handle cases in the same way.
The Local Security Board, chaired by
TORROX is levelling up its sports scene. The Santa Rosa sports complex is about to open its doors in September, just in time for the new season of local club Recreativo El Morche. A brand-new artificial turf football field was just installed, replacing the old dirt pitch where the club has battled it out for years.
The project, part of a €5.5 million first phase, isn’t just about the field. Beneath the turf lies a hundred-space underground parking lot, while the surrounding facilities include changing rooms, commercial areas, and multi-sport courts.
Mayor Francisco Salado, approved the changes recently with representatives from all law enforcement agencies at the table. Alongside measures to prevent gender-based violence, they also reviewed broader public safety measures for the municipality.
Officials say the upgrade is a tighter,
faster, and clearer safety net for those at risk. “We’re taking another step forward to protect victims and strengthen our response mechanisms,” the mayor said.
The plan is already in effect and will guide all police collaboration in Rincon de la Victoria from now on.
Santa Rosa rising
Local leaders, including Mayor Óscar Medina, are proud of this milestone.
“In 10 years, we’ve transformed Torrox. If I had to
pick two projects I’m most proud of, they’d be this football field and the new funeral home,” Medina said.
Once the old dirt field is cleared, the beachfront of El Morche and the nearby dunes of La Carraca will get a spectacular makeover, creating open, scenic spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Phase two is already on the horizon, with plans to add grandstands, extra changing rooms, more parking, and lush green areas. By the time everything is done, the total investment in the Santa Rosa sports and leisure complex will top €9 million.
Rincon de la Victoria’s town hall.
The news sports complex in Torrox Costa.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torrox
Widow pensions Spain
Make sure you follow the rules
SPAIN has tightened the rules around widow’s pensions, its second-largest benefit after retirement, with officials running stricter checks, demanding new proof, and even withdrawing payments where conditions aren’t met. The average payout stands at €874 a month, but Social Security’s message is clear: any change in civil status, income, or cohabitation must be reported immediately or recipients risk sanctions and back-payments.
The biggest pitfalls include remarrying or registering a new civil partnership (pareja de hecho), living with a new partner without proper registration, or failing to prove economic dependence on the deceased spouse where required. Advisors are reporting a rise in cases of suspended pensions while beneficiaries scramble to provide documents such as residency certificates, income statements, or registry entries. Authorities warn that if irregularities are found, they have the power to demand repayment of wrongly received sums.
The rules also cover new living arrangements. You can form a household with a new partner and still keep your widow’s pension, but two strict income tests apply. First, the pension must represent at least 75 per cent of your annual income. Second, the combined household income cannot exceed twice the Salario Mínimo Interprofesional (SMI). With the current average payout at €874 per month, claimants are urged to do the maths for their situation and keep proof to hand.
The bottom line: Spain’s clampdown isn’t about trapping be-
neficiaries but ensuring rules are followed. Staying compliant means reporting any changes quickly, keeping documentation organised, and knowing the income thresholds. Those who act proactively can safeguard their widow’s pension, but failing to disclose changes could lead to suspensions, clawbacks, or even permanent loss of entitlement.
Widow’s-pension controls: beneficiaries must report marriages, new partnerships or income changes quickly.
Cash limits
A MAJOR Spanish supermarket chain has responded to frequent customer questions about payment rules by providing clarity on legal limits and store policies through its official online customer service channel.
Spanish law sets a cash payment cap at €999.99, meaning any purchase reaching or exceeding €1,000 must be paid entirely by bank card. The retailer accepts cards with Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro symbols, but American Express is not permitted due to charges the card company imposes on the retailer. Also, for those who have broken into their piggy bank or raided the sofa for loose change under the cushions, only up to 50 coins can be used per transaction, regardless of denomination, following Spanish law.
Mercadona, the supermarket chain led by Juan Roig, also clarified that it does not accept discount coupons or vouchers, nor payment methods such as luncheon vouchers or gourmet cheques, which are restricted to hospitality establishments. This policy is particularly relevant in tourist areas, which may catch some customers off guard.
For international visitors, Mercadona explained that tourists eligible for VAT refunds can process them through the company’s Customer Invoice page online. They must present a passport or foreign residency document, register before payment, and show it at the checkout.
The clarifications are meant to improve and streamline the shopping experience and ensure compliance with Spanish regulations, especially for customers in high-traffic tourist regions.
Grandchildren Law deadline SEPE warning
Application window closes October 22
SPAIN’S Democratic Memory Law, widely known as the Grandchildren Law, is entering its final stretch, with the eligibility window closing on October 22. This provision grants Spanish nationality to descendants of Spaniards, and officials stress that the only way to secure
Creating a usuario consular (consular user) profile before the deadline will lock in your place in the queue, even if your actual appointment is scheduled after the law expires. Miss that date, and your opportunity is gone.
The urgency is real - demand is massive. In Ar-
around 290,000 applications have already been processed from an estimated 1.5 million potential candidates, while global submissions are nearing one million. Consulates like Buenos Aires handle roughly 10,000 appointments a month, meaning delays are inevitable but participation is still within reach if you register on time.
The law applies to grandchildren of Spaniards regardless of whether their ancestors later acquired another nationality, children of those who gain citizenship through this law, and certain great-grandchildren where the grandchild parent has died without claiming. Each case depends on proper documentation, with Spain maintaining its commitment to process every file submitted in time. Applicants must build a chain of official records linking them to their Spanish ancestortypically birth, marriage, and death certificates for each generation, many of which must be recently issued, apostilled, and translated if obtained outside Spain.
SPAIN’S public employment service (SEPE) has issued a clear warning to unemployment benefit claimants: check that your phone number, email and postal address are correct, or risk payment delays, missed appointments and even suspension of your benefits. A single wrong digit or outdated address can block important messages and lead to sanctions. SEPE stresses that being reachable is part of the rules for receiving payments, and mismatches between their records and those of your regional employment office can cause further problems.
The agency uses your contact details to send appointment notifications, compliance reminders and payment updates. If those messages bounce or you fail to respond, SEPE assumes non-compliance, not lack of awareness. That’s why the advice is urgent: update your details as soon as you move or change numbers.
Updating is straightforward. You can check your expediente (benefit file) online or via your last SEPE letter to see what contact details are on record. Report any changes immediately, ideally before moving or activating a new number. Proof of address - such as a rental contract, padrón certificate or recent bill - is usually required if you’ve moved. Keep your details consistent with both SEPE and your regional employment service to avoid mismatches. Saving a screenshot or receipt of your update can serve as proof if issues arise later. Failing to update can trigger sanctions under Spain’s employment law.
Credit : fizkes, Shutterstock
Thousands of descendants applying for citizenship under Spain’s ‘Grandchildren Law’ ahead of the October deadline.
100 jobs available in Cajiz
AXARQUIA is hiring: 100 new jobs are right now on the table.
A major fruit and vegetable company in Cajiz, a village close to Velez-Malaga, is looking for workers to join its packaging lines. The jobs are available through recruitment agency Adecco. The company needs 100 workers who pack and prepare fruits and vegetables to keep up with demand in the horticultural sector. Tasks range from unloading and preparing fresh produce for the production line, to palletising, packaging, and keeping the work area clean and orga-
nised. It’s hands-on work in the heart of one of Andalucia’s most important industries.
The offer is a full-time temporary contract, 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Shifts are either mornings or afternoons, and workers get a full hour for lunch plus a 30-minute
Printed at Recoprint: Polígono Industrial La Palmera, Parcela 3, Av. de la Palmera, 41, 41703 Dos Hermanas, Sevilla
breakfast break. For many, it’s a straightforward way into steady employment in the local economy.
There are a few requirements: applicants should hold a driving licence and have their own vehicle to get to the Cajiz site. Prior experience in warehouses, agricultural work, or production lines is also requested, with one to two years preferred. Beyond skills, the company insists on attitude: being ‘resolute, eager to learn, and proactive’ will carry as much weight as technical experience. The salary? €9.37 per hour, before taxes.
Interested applicants can contact Adecco in Malaga for more information.
A world of new opportunities
NERJA is making a huge step in education and job opportunities.
The town’s long-awaited Training and Employment Centre is set to open its doors in the first half of October. The training complex will carry real value and lead to certified qualifications for the residents of Nerja.
Mayor José Alberto Armijo confirmed the opening, highlighting that the new hub will not just
boost skills but also raise the quality of training available to locals. “We want to give locals access to better opportunities, closer to home,” he said.
The project has been years in the making and represents an investment of €2.9 million, co-financed with both European and municipal funds.
Spread across two floors, the 1,511-square-metre space has been designed to feel modern, practical,
and accessible. It includes three classrooms, three specialised workshops, a computer room, staff offices, and even areas for one-on-one support.
Courses will range from basic training to full professional certificates, opening doors to new careers and helping locals upgrade their skills.
Employees working on a producing sorting line.
New training and employment centre in Nerja.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Nerja
Hands-on heritage
TORROX is preparing for its beloved Fiesta de la Candelaria - and they’re doing it the hands-on way.
In the run-up to the September 12 celebration, the town is offering a series of free traditional craft workshops through August and early September, giving locals and visitors the chance to learn, create, and keep centuries-old skills alive.
Until August 22, participants can dive into the art of weaving with esparto grass. The following week, August 25 to 28, it’s all about basketry. Then, September 1 to 5, the focus shifts to crafting zambombas (a traditional percussion instrument) and other wooden tools. All workshops will
be held at the Centro de Participación Activa on Calle Angustias, 1, from 10.00 to 12.30, with limited spots available.
The programme also includes a screening of ‘La Candelaria 2024’ on September 4 at 17.30, building anticipation for the main event at the Recinto del Faro on September 12 - a night dedicated to ‘recovering a tradition’, with music, fire, and community spirit under the Torrox sky.
Organised by the town hall, the Villa Romana Interpretation Centre, and the CPA - with help from the San Roque Women’s Association - this initiative is about passing down heritage, sparking creativity, and weaving together generations. One handmade craft at a time.
From Alps to Frigiliana
CHRISTOPH JENNY is a Swiss pensioner who moved to the white village of Frigiliana, in Axarquia. Recently, he was invited to Antena3, a Spanish TV network, to talk about his life in one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
Christoph and his wife have long dreamt of trading Swiss snow for Spanish sun. “In the 90s, when I was working in Madrid, I knew I wanted to retire here. When the time came, we didn’t hesitate,” he says.
Armed with a modest pension of €1,400 each, Christoph says life in Switzerland on the same cash would be impossible. “There, just health insurance would be €1,500 a month. Rent is unthinkable, and food is impossible. But here in Spain, we live comfortably.”
The difference is shoc -
king. “Rent in Switzerland would be €3,500 a month. My daughter pays that amount,” he laughs. “Basically, you need four times as much money to live there. A menu del día in Switzerland is €20, a proper dinner €50-60 per person. Add wine, and you’re looking at €6 a glass.”
Christoph’s story in Axarquia is actually part of a bigger trend.
Retirees like him are moving to coastal towns and rural villages in Spain, buying or renting homes and spending locally. Their pensions are helping keep restaurants, transport services, and private healthcare buzzing. Around 400,000 foreign pensioners are calling Spain home, injecting their pensions into local shops, homes, and services.
Free traditional craft workshops in Torrox.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torrox
Christoph Jenny is a Swiss pensioner who moved to Frigiliana.
Sea without barriers
SUN, sea, and inclusivity. That’s the summer vibe in Rincon de la Victoria.
This year, more than 300 people are making the most of the town’s assisted bathing service, running until August 31 at the Torre de Benagalbon accessible beach in Los Claros.
The programme, called Disfruta la Playa (Enjoy the beach), is designed for seniors, people with reduced mobility, or functional diversity. And 2025 comes with some upgrades: a free adapted minibus, space for nine passengers and two wheelchairs, shuttling people to and from the beach during service hours.
“It’s one step further in making the beach truly accessible,” said councillor for Beaches Sergio Díaz, adding that without it, many wouldn’t be able to enjoy the pro-
gramme at all.
There’s also a special morning slot twice a week - Mondays and Fridays from 10.00 to 14.00 - for local senior centres to bring their residents.
Mayor Francisco Salado called it a “key service for integration and quality of life,” while councillor for Seniors Nacho Cuadra highlighted its role in keeping older residents socially active and connected.
The beach is fully kitted out: adapted toilets, showers, storage hut, picnic tables, a water-access crane, amphibious chairs, and life jackets. Volunteers from Cruz Roja make it all happen, with the council investing €8,568.62 annually.
For bookings, contact Cruz Roja Rincon de la Victoria on Calle Limonero, 6, or by phone on 952 972 399.
Cave’s gold standard
CUEVA DEL TESORO (Treasure Cave) in Rincon de la Victoria has done it again.
The famous sea cave has won the Travellers’ Choice 2025 award from TripAdvisor, putting it in the top 10 per cent of experiences worldwide. This award comes straight from millions of traveller reviews over the past year, making it a must-visit spot.
Mayor Francisco Salado said he was thrilled: “Winning Travellers’ Choice for the second year in a row is a huge honour. It shows the work we’ve done to make Cueva del Tesoro a world-class tourist attraction. This prize recognises both our unique natural heritage and the dedication of our team to give visitors the best experience.”
Cueva del Tesoro is Europe’s only mari-
Credit: turissmoenrincon.es
ne-origin cave you can visit, and one of just three like it in the world. Its twisting galleries, carved by ancient underwater currents, are full of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and narrow gorges.
Visitors are amazed not just by the rock formations, but also by ancient human traces, from Palaeolithic paintings to Bronze Age relics.
The cave is more popular than ever. Over 63,000 people visited in the rst half of 2025 - a 21 per cent increase compared to last year.
Tourism councillor Antonio José Martín said: “Every review and rating shows that our visitors enjoy the experience. This award inspires us to keep Cueva del Tesoro as a top destination for culture and nature lovers.”
Treasure Cave in Rincon de la Victoria.
The programme is designed for seniors, people with reduced mobility, or functional diversity.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Rincon de la Victoria
Spanish hero in China
MARTA SANTANA, a 31-year-old Spanish tourist, became an internet sensation in China after rescuing a child from drowning in the Tuo River in Hunan Province on August 7. While traveling
with friends, Santana, a former swimming coach, saw the boy fall into the river and struggle against strong currents. Without hesitation, she dived in to save him, followed by the child’s grandfather. To -
gether, they brought the boy safely to shore.
The rescue was filmed and shared on Weibo, China’s equivalent of X, gaining 1.8 million views on the first day. The story trended under the hashtag ‘foreign tourist bravely saves child in Fenghuang ancient city’, becoming a top topic on Chinese social media.
Santana’s decade of experience as a swimming coach and lifeguard drove her instinctive response. “I didn’t think twice; I just wanted to get him out of the water,” she said, praising the grandfather’s courage.
Yang Xiaoli, a local tourism official in Fenghuang County, commended Santana’s ‘act of heroism’, noting her bravery and kindness. On her first trip to China, Santana expressed relief that the child was safe and reaffirmed her commitment to helping others.
Cheap supermarkets
FOOD inflation has turned the weekly grocery run into a financial headache, but a new study by Spain’s consumer group OCU shows families can fight back simply by choosing the right supermarket. Researchers tracked 155,489 prices for 236 products across 1,108 stores in 65 cities, finding that households could save around €1,056 a year - nearly 17.5 per cent of their food budget - by shopping at the cheapest chains.
The study ranked Family Cash, Alcampo, Supeco, Consum and Mercadona as Spain’s most affordable supermarkets. These retailers consistently kept baskets cheaper, especially through own-brand ranges. But the report also stressed that location matters: the gap between the lowest and highest bills within the same chain is particularly sharp in cities such as Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona. That means shoppers in urban areas could pocket even bigger savings by being selective about where they buy.
OCU notes that the average basket is now 14.1 per cent more expensive than last year and up 30.8 per cent compared
with 2022. Essentials like sugar and condensed milk have spiked, while items such as sunflower oil and Canary bananas have eased, but the overall climb leaves many households squeezed. Most savings come from swapping to store brands for pantry staples, dairy and cleaning products, where the difference to big-name labels is minimal. The key is combining supermarket choice with smarter habits: planning meals around real promotions, sticking to a list, splitting the shop across chains, freezing leftovers and resisting impulse buys.
Price-checking in the aisles.
AXARQUÍA - MÁLAGA EAST
Tapas, football and chill
LOOKING for a chill and authentic spot in Nerja?
Then, Los Huertos del Sevillano is your go-to. Located right in the centre of Nerja, on Calle Huertos, this bar and restaurant nails that 100 per cent Andalucian spirit: locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy tasty tapas while viewing the day’s biggest football matches.
In fact, the menu goes beyond those classic tapas, offering fresh seafood, paella, burgers, salads, and the always good choice of gambas al pil-pil. Prices are fair for Nerja, and service is quick and friendly even when it’s busy. And the atmosphere feels like a cosy pub where you can also play billiards or fussball with friends.
And football fans are in
luck now, when elite football just kicked off in Europe. La Liga, Premier League, and European Cup games are all streamed live, making it the place to cheer and celebrate alongside other fans.
Some visitors note that dessert options are limited, but the overall experience more than makes up for it.
Good food, good vibe, and friendly people that make
your evening after a day of exploring Nerja.
So put Los Huertos on your list for a bite with friends and a nice Andalucian experience. Eat well, catch that game, make new friends and feel the town like a local.
Los Huertos del Sevillano is located at Calle Los Huertos 33, Nerja. You can call for reservations on 952 524 138.
Balcon of flavours
NERJA’S menu is more than sea views this summer.
The town will host its first ever Balcon de Europa Gastronomy Fair from August 22 to 24, transforming its famous viewpoint into a stage for food, music and late-night fun.
For three evenings, from 7pm until 1am, the Balcon will swap quiet sunsets for buzzing stalls and live music. Sixteen food stands will showcase Spain’s culinary staples, from artisan cheeses and Iberian hams to cured sausages and regional delicacies.
But it’s not just about the food. The soundtrack comes courtesy of free open-air concerts from Eduardo Campanero, Nolasco and the legendary No me pises que llevo chanclas. You’re in for guitars, Andalucian rhythms and plenty of dancing under the stars.
Ana María Muñoz, Nerja’s Tourism
councillor, said the fair is designed to turn the town’s postcard viewpoint into “a meeting point for the senses, where gastronomy and music join hands.” Officials say that attendance will be capped to ensure safety and comfort, so visitors can enjoy the party without the crush. With its whitewashed houses, cliffside views and now a festival blending flavours and sounds, Nerja is making a case for itself as the summer’s most irresistible hotspot.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Nerja
Nerja will host Balcon de Europa Gastronomy Fair.
Credit: Sevillano offi cial website.
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Hiring gap
ONLY 16 per cent of UK firms recruit ex-offenders, research by DSA Connect shows. More than half of reoffenders struggled to find work after release, with 61 per cent blaming this for returning to crime. Skills shortages mean businesses are missing valuable hires.
Recycling reform
ONLINE UK marketplaces must now share recycling costs for electrical waste under new rules, creating a fairer system for domestic retailers. The changes target items from washing machines to vapes, aiming to boost recycling, cut fly-tipping, and make a more sustainable economy.
Biomass boost
ENSO has secured €165 million to build two biomass plants in Spain, supplying energy to ACOR in Olmedo and Solvay in Torrelavega. The projects will cut more than 400,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, with financing led by Santander, MUFG, Natixis, Bank of America, and Cajamar.
Eco-Park launch
PUERTO RICAN firm Toroverde will open its first European mountain eco-park in Cuenca, Spain, in 2027. The €90m project, expanding to €118m over six years, will feature Europe’s longest zip line, immersive trails, and an eco-resort, aiming for 280,000 visitors in year one.
Nuclear AI
ROLLS-ROYCE says powering AI data centres with its small modular reactors (SMRs) could make it the UK’s most valuable company. Deals for six SMRs in the Czech Republic and three in the UK are planned, targeting a trillion-dollar global market by 2050.
STAT OF WEEK
119,811
Spain’s population increased by during the second quarter of 2025, standing at 49,315,949 on July 1.
Binance and BBVA
BINANCE, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is partnering with Spanish banking giant BBVA to let customers store their assets with the bank instead of directly on the exchange, according to the Financial Times .
The move comes as Binance faces intense global regulatory scrutiny following a record $4.3 billion (€3.69 billion) fine from US authorities in February for violating anti-money laundering laws and international sanctions.
Its founder, Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, was sentenced to four months in prison for failing to prevent money laundering.
Under the deal, BBVA will act as an independent custodian - essentially a trusted third party - safeguarding client assets in case Binan -
ce faces security breaches, bankruptcy, or further legal action.
As Spain’s second-largest bank, praised for innovation and sustainability, BBVA is heavily regulated and required to meet strict compliance rules. This could reassure
UK hiring activity
UK hiring activity dropped sharply in June, with permanent job placements falling at their fastest pace in almost two years, according to the latest KPMG and REC UK Report on Jobs.
At the same time, the supply of candidates surgedthe steepest increase since November 2020 - amid reports of redundancies and weaker demand for workers.
“Ongoing geopolitical turbulence and the threat of
€230m fund
SPAIN’S Regional Resilience Fund has committed €230 million, via loans from NextGenerationEU, to finance projects through A&G (€130 million) and Urbania Alpha (€100 million). Part of the country’s Recovery Plan, the funding will support affordable housing, sustainable tourism, green mobility, waste and water management, plus energy efficiency. The European Investment Bank will monitor compliance with environmental and social criteria, with investments due by December 2030. This latest agreement brings total financing under the EIB’s new mechanism to €640 million.
wary investors still reeling from the collapse of rival exchange FTX in 2022.
Banks are far more tightly regulated than crypto exchanges, and BBVA’s involvement could encourage more cautious investors to enter the digital asset market.
rising costs, alongside the promise of technology efficiencies, mean companies continue to wait and see with their hiring,” said Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner at KPMG.
Morocco’s air taxis
MOROCCO is stepping into the fast-growing air taxi market, hoping to join forces with Spain and the UK to produce next-generation electric aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL).
The proposed partnership would see British firm, Vertical Aerospace, and Spanish aeronautics giant, Aciturri Aerostructures, work alongside Morocco.
Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 will carry four passengers and one pilot, with a range of over 150 kilometres and a cruising speed of 240 km/h.
Plans in Spain could see air taxis operating routes such as Malaga–Marbella, Ronda, or even Ceuta and Melilla.
John Lewis Beauty
JOHN LEWIS is investing millions into six new Beauty Halls across the UK, starting with a redesigned Liverpool store that will act as a blueprint for national rollout. The 16,000 sq ft space - expanded by almost 40 per cent - houses 132 premium brands, including Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty, and features ‘sensory spaces’ for treatments and consultations. Stores in Bluewater, Solihull, and Cambridge will follow by late 2025. Chief commercial officer Vikki Kavanagh said stores are the ‘physical heartbeat of the brand’ and destinations for discovery, part of an £800 million wider commitment as beauty sales rise 40 per cent in five years.
FC BARCELONA has refinanced €424 million of Espai Barça debt, originally due in 2028, into a new structure repayable from 2033 to 2050 at an average cost of 5.19 per cent, in collaboration with Goldman Sachs. The move, ahead of schedule, reduces the risk premium by almost half compared to 2023 and follows a Morningstar DBRS outlook upgrade to ‘positive’. Funding for the €1.45 billion stadium project remains without mortgaging assets or costing members.
BUSINESS GROWTH FUND (BGF) has made its first investment under the £300 million Invest in Women Taskforce pledge, backing Northern Ireland’s CWC Group, a specialist care provider founded by Monica Byrne and Imelda McGrady in 1983. Now led by Aisling and Shauna Byrne, CWC operates seven sites. The funding will support acquisitions and service expansion. Backed by major UK banks, BGF has invested £500 million in female-led scaleups over five years, as part of its £3 billion UK-wide growth commitment.
THE share of UK working-age adults reporting a disability surged to 24.8 per cent in 2024 - 3.9 million more than a decade ago - with the sharpest rise among young women citing mental health issues (Economics Observatory). Disabled people’s employment rate is 54 per cent, nearly 30 points lower than non-disabled peers, with a 12 per cent hourly pay gap. The trend is straining public finances, raising welfare costs, and increasing demands for workplace adjustments and inclusive employment policies.
Binance and Bitcoin.
Stressed office worker.
3I Group 3.963,00 3.998,00 3.962,00 114,92K Admiral Group 3.562,0 3.592,0 3.544,0 24,63K
Airtel Africa 216,40 217,60 215,60 137,8K Anglo American 2.149,0 2.175,6 2.135,0 154,95K Antofagasta 2.134,00 2.134,00 2.098,00 105,52K
Ashtead Group 5.282,5 5.332,0 5.264,0 41,82K Associated British Foods 2.268,0 2.285,0 2.266,0 34,84K AstraZeneca 11.716,0 11.724,0 11.642,0 127,55K Auto Trader Group Plc 810,40 811,40 806,00 40,9K Aviva 662,80 671,51 661,40 603,51K
B&M European Value Retail SA 224,90 226,00 224,00 275,76K
British American Tobacco 4.243,0 4.249,0 4.228,0 193,86K BT Group 213,10 213,50 212,30 1,09M
2.288,0 2.296,0 2.278,0 53,78K
164,90 167,59 164,30 961,67K
Cola HBC AG 3.892,0 3.900,0 3.884,0 23,51K
2.579,00 2.598,06 2.578,00 67,52K
Group 229,20 229,20 227,40 175,44K
4.757,2 4.762,0 4.710,0 27,84K
2.033,0 2.022,0 248,96K
879,25 888,40 878,40
Bingo blunder
GALA BINGO UK players were left angry after a glitch wrongly credited over £1.6m in winnings during its Summer Nights promotion. Some withdrew funds before being told of the error. The Gambling Commission is investigating, while Gala cites terms allowing voided payouts after malfunctions.
Top choice
SPAIN is Europe’s top summer holiday choice, with 13 per cent of travellers picking it - up five points on last year, says the European Travel Commission. Most plan to spend €1,500–€2,500 per person, with September breaks and lesser-known destinations growing in popularity.
Tether and Bit2Me
TETHER, the world’s largest company in the digital assets industry, has acquired a minority equity stake in Bit2Me, Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurrency platform, as part of a €30 million funding round.
This deal comes shortly after Bit2Me became the first Spanish-speaking exchange to receive authorisation from Spain’s CNMV as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider under the EU’s new Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). This licence allows the company to operate legally
Iberdrola’s EV charging
IBERDROLA Spain has launched the first electric vehicle charging points under a contract with Murcia City Council to install 190 across the city. The inaugural stations, on Avenida de los Pinos, include fast (50 kW) and semi-fast (22 kW) chargers, all powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. “This public-private partner-
ship... helps to promote emission-free transport,” said Enrique Planells, Iberdrola’s regional Key Accounts Manager (Atalayar). Users can locate, reserve, and pay via Iberdrola’s app, with card payments available on fast chargers. Iberdrola operates Spain’s largest EV network, with over 9,500 public points.
across all 27 EU member states.
Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino said, “Bit2Me has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building compliant, secure, and intuitive infrastructure for the digital asset ecosystem. We’re proud to support Bit2Me as they help shape the future of regulated crypto services in Europe and beyond.”
Founded in 2014, Bit2Me has over 1.2 million users and serves more than 7,000 companies, with transaction volumes exceeding €3 billion in 2025 so far.
Bit2Me’s co-founder Andrei Manuel said, “Welcoming a global leader like Tether into our shareholding structure is a transformational moment for Bit2Me. With their backing, we aim to accelerate our leadership in Europe and Latin America, markets that are just beginning to unlock the power of decentralised finance.”
Entain’s results
ENTAIN reported strong H1 2025 results, with UK and Ireland online Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) up 21 per cent and Spain seeing double-digit online growth. Group EBITDA rose 11 per cent to £583m. An interim dividend of 9.8p per share, up 5 per cent, will be paid on September 29.
BELARUS confirms release in Spain of its citizens subjected to labour exploitation. Press Secretary Ruslan Varankov said the embassy in Madrid is working closely with Spanish law enforcement and will offer consular and legal support.
Once investigations conclude, the freed individuals will be safely repatriated. The Foreign Ministry will continue monitoring the situation.
Spain’s leading Spanish-speaking cryptocurency platform.
Credit: PJ McDonnell, Shutterstock
GERMANY
Cheeky theft
IN Salzwedel, thieves have stolen the bronze backside from the famous ‘Puparschbierbrunnen’ - literally ‘Bottom Beer Fountain’ - a statue of a man bending over with beer flowing from a keg on his back. The fountain has been a well-known quirky landmark for decades. Police are currently investigating.
Cash bounty
VICTIMS of a daring bank heist in Lübeck last December are offering an extraordinary reward of €240,000 in cash, gold and Krugerrands for information leading to the four men who broke into 371 safe-deposit boxes worth more than €18 million at Deutsche Bank. Earlier, prosecutors had offered only €5,000, with no result.
PORTUGAL ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM
Jagger’s journey
ROLLING STONES frontman Mick Jagger, 82, has been spotted holidaying across Portugal, from the streets of Lisbon to the surf town of Nazaré, the historic city of Coimbra and the riverfront of Porto. Travelling with family, he took in local sights, met fans and posed for photos during his summer tour of the country.
Wine tariffs
PORTUGUESE wine producers warn that a planned 15 per cent US tariff could result in a 30 per cent price rise for consumers. Lower-priced bottles are expected to be most affected, and industry figures fear that if importers push down producer prices in response, the consequences could be particularly severe for smaller wineries.
NORWAY
Oslo outbreak
A HEPATITIS A outbreak in Oslo has been traced to the popular Frognerseteren restaurant, which remains closed following the cases. To date, 22 cases have been reported, 12 genetically confirmed, among patrons who consumed food there between mid-June and August 2. Local health services are offering vaccinations to anyone potentially exposed.
Cheaters charged
SKI jumpers Marius Lindvik and Johann Andre Forfang, along with three team officials, have been charged with ski suit tampering at the World Championships in Trondheim. FIS says reinforced thread was used, but the athletes deny knowledge. Both were disqualified in March and suspended. The ethics committee’s ruling is pending.
EURO PRESS
NETHERLANDS
Lafufu bust
SINCE March, Dutch customs officers have seized approximately 400,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls, predominantly at Schiphol Airport. These fake versions, dubbed ‘Lafufu’, are of inferior quality and pose safety risks, including choking hazards due to detachable parts and potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
Credit: Enjoy The Life / Shutterstock
Wedding refund
COPENHAGEN Municipality has been ordered to refund nearly 23 million kroner (around €3,082,000) to more than 12,000 primarily foreign couples who were incorrectly charged wedding fees at City Hall since 2018. The charges - up to 4,500 kroner - were only lawful for ceremonies held outside the hall.
Canine risk
A NEW Danish study shows that wild carnivores such as foxes, badgers and mink can carry canine distemper virus, which poses a threat to farmed and domestic animals. It’s highly contagious among carnivores, but cannot be transmitted to humans, underscoring the importance of vaccination for dogs and biosecurity for vulnerable species.
Kit copycat
BRITISH designer Diana Al Shammari has accused Belgian football club Beerschot of copying her floral embroidery design featured on their new limited-edition kit. The sportswear company Nova, which produced the shirt, denies wrongdoing, stating they contacted her for collaboration but received no response.
Bikini brawl
TWO women from Brussels, aged 19 and 21, are set to appear in court after allegedly attacking police officers in Blankenberge for violating a local bikini ban. During their arrest, one struck an officer, and another was slightly injured. A minor accompanying them was released without charge. They face charges of resisting arrest and assault.
FINLAND SWEDEN
Spirit slump
ALCOHOL consumption in Finland is declining, while interest in alcohol-free options is rising. In July, state-owned retailer Alko saw a 65 per cent increase in non-alcoholic drink sales from July 2024. Wine sales fell about 5 per cent, spirits 8.2 per cent, and overall sales volume dropped 2.5 per cent year-on-year.
Veteran’s gift
THE University of Eastern Finland has received its largest-ever donation - more than €3 million - from the estate of a late farmer and war veteran. The gift will be used to support research and education, with the university establishing a dedicated fund in his name to honour his legacy.
Illegal cargo
A 53-YEAR-OLD man has been sentenced to one year in prison in Sweden after police found about 750,000 illegal cigarettes and 198 litres of spirits in his car. The cigarettes, lacking Swedish health warnings, carried an estimated tax value of over 1.5 million kronor (around €134,208.69), according to Dagens Juridik.
Sea treasure
THEO WANDERYDZ, 31, a screenwriter from Gothenburg, lost his ring in the sea earlier this summer while visiting the Bohuslän coast. Despite searches, it seemed gone for good until it was later found attached to a sea star by a diver. The discovery, quickly shared on social media, drew widespread attention for its unusual and whimsical nature.
Charity ride
A 20-YEAR-OLD student from Lyon, Maxime Jerez, cycled an ambitious 1,100 km from Palavas-les-Flots to Calais in just three days to honour his late grandmother and raise funds for cancer research. “No stress, just excitement,” he said before setting off, supporting the Ligue contre le cancer with €5 donated for every kilometre.
Pigeon control
THE town of Suresnes has introduced an animal-friendly method to curb its pigeon population: since early August a dispenser on Place Henri IV has provided pigeons with corn kernels coated in a reversible contraceptive gel each morning. The €19,000 initiative aims to reduce pigeon births by 30 per cent to 80 per cent, without harming other wildlife.
Pageant outrage
IN Italy’s Campania region, a 13-year-old girl appeared on the Miss Italia ‘Mascotte’ catwalk, wearing a bikini and high heels, despite the minimum age being 18. The incident, spotlighted by journalist Selvaggia Lucarelli, sparked outrage and prompted the immediate dismissal of the regional representative.
Italian roots
COMEDIAN and US host Jimmy Kimmel has obtained Italian citizenship through his maternal ancestry, saying it offers him ‘options’ for the future. Speaking on The Sarah Silverman Podcast, he noted the move came earlier this year and hinted he might spend more time in Europe, depending on how political events unfold in the US.
IRELAND
Bar blaze
A MAN in his 20s has been arrested in connection with a fire at Conor McGregor’s pub, the Black Forge Inn, in Dublin. The incident occurred on July 25, when a flammable liquid was used to set fire to the pub’s front. The suspect was apprehended by the Gardaí’s Special Detective Unit and remains in custody. Investigations are ongoing.
Sports solidarity
SPORTING legends from various disciplines have rallied behind a fundraising campaign, ‘Stand For Féile,’ to support a young Cork girl who tragically lost both her legs in a farm accident. The initiative has garnered widespread support from the sports community to aid Féile O’Sullivan’s recovery and future care.
Too hot to move, too hungover to care? When holidays become something more
AUGUST on the Costa del Sol is peak holiday season. But for some, a break that should be about rest and relaxation turns into little more than a bar crawl. You might plan to visit the sights, go on a boat trip, or take a hike, but instead, it’s drinks at midday, cocktails before dinner, and waking up too hungover to make it to the beach.
It’s easy to fall into that pattern, especially when everyone around you seems to be doing the same. But if you find yourself constantly chasing the next drink, or secretly wondering why you can’t stop, it may be time to ask: is this more than just a holiday habit?
For some, what starts as fun quickly becomes dependence. Alcohol takes over more than the day, it begins to dominate thoughts, relationships, health, and hope.
If you’re feeling stuck, Alcoholics
Anonymous (AA) offers a safe and confidential space to share, listen, and begin to recover. Here is the real story of someone who found a new life through AA:
“If I can do it, you can too.” Natasha, 43, hit rock bottom at her son’s birthday party.
“I showed up off my face, drinking vodka from a Coke bottle, sneaking
off to use in the toilet. I caused a scene, got thrown out, took back my son’s present and spent the money on more drugs. I disappeared for two days. I lost everything.”
She knew she needed help and remembered AA.
“I went to the newcomers meeting. I had nothing, no car, no job, living in a garage. But I met people who helped me. And I never looked back.”
Today, she’s been sober since March 2019. “The Steps keep me sober. I use them daily to be the best version of me. This programme works if you work it.”
There are meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, with friendly people who will understand, held daily throughout the Costa del Sol. Meetings are free to attend, and anyone who thinks they may have a problem with alcohol is welcome.
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
The €18,000 tomato
A
SMALL box of tomatoes sold for €18,000 in Coin on Friday, August 15. In a historic moment for the Guadalhorce Valley, a batch of the finest huevo de toro tomatoes fetched the record-breaking amount at the 13th annual auction.
The winning bid came from local resident Francisco José Jiménez for a lot grown by Daniel García Plaza. According to a statement from Coin’s town hall, the proceeds will be donated to charitable causes.
The event, sponsored this year by flamenco singer Kiki Morente, saw Antonio Gámez’s tomatoes take second place and Isabel Cortés’s lot secure third.
Coin’s mayor, Francisco Santos, celebrated the gobsmacking payout, stating, “We’ve overtaken all records since we began promoting this tomato variety, unique to our valley, nearly 15 years ago.” He expressed his joy that the funds would support local associations and community groups.
Costa Blanca North French and German officers
THREE foreign police officers – two from the French Gendarmerie and one from the German Federal Police - are serving at the Guardia Civil stations in Altea and El Campello throughout August.
At the main station in Altea, German officer Jessica, 29, who normally works as a traffic officer on Germany’s federal motorway network, is joined by French gendarme Robin, 30, who manages a patrol and intervention unit in his home country. Meanwhile, French gendarme Maud, 26, is stationed at El Campello, where her usual duties include assisting the public, supporting victims, and handling reports.
During their time in Spain, the three officers are performing general policing duties within the Guardia Civil and have been warmly welcomed by their colleagues. They patrol in mixed teams, pairing a foreign officer with a Guardia Civil officer, and also work closely with the Local Police forces in Altea and El Campello on daily crime prevention and law enforcement tasks.
Mallorca
First cocktail boat
IN the Bay of Pollença and off the beautiful Palma beaches, there’s an increasingly heard sound that has become a sign of joy: ‘Pirí-pirí!’
That cry, shouted from yachts, motorboats, and sailboats , isn’t a nautical whim, but a call on the first cocktail boat to sail around Mallorca. Behind that picturesque name are Mar Margarit Bauzà and Ferran Permanyer Molist , a couple in their 30s who, five summers ago, decided to bring cocktails to the sea. The spark was ignited in 2022 when Mar, immersed in the endless scrolling of Instagram, came across a video recorded on a Thai beach, where a small vessel served drinks to others.
“We saw it elsewhere and we did it here,” she recalls. What began as an improvised adventure, with a single boat and the two of them as the only crew members, is today a small fleet of three four-metre boats that serve cocktails throughout the Bay of Palma, from Illetas to Portals Vells, and maintain their original headquarters in Pollença.
Costa Blanca South Foreign visitors save August
ELCHE’S streets are usually quiet after August 15, with shops closing for summer holidays and locals winding down after the Maredeu festivities. Yet this August, the city is noticeably livelier, thanks in large part to foreign tourists, who are keeping central shops and cafés busy throughout the day.
Business owners are also adapting. On main streets such as the Corredora, approximately 70 per cent of shops remain open, a higher proportion than in previous years. Many small businesses have shortened their holiday periods to just a week or 10 days, returning before September, whereas historically, closures usually lasted two to three weeks. Some professionals, including estate agents and legal offices, close only temporarily and provide emergency contact details as well.
Higher temperatures keep locals and tourists at the beach until late, reducing footfall in commercial areas during peak sun hours. To compensate, some businesses extend their opening hours.
Almeria
Bookstore boon
ALMERIA students are poised to have a fruitful school year: next academic year, 2025-2026, students in their first and second years of primary education and students in their fourth year of secondary education will receive brand new - and free - textbooks. In total, more than 86,000 Almeria students will benefit from the programme. The investment, made possible by a budget of €57 million allocated by the Ministry of Education, will be widespread across the whole of Andalucia. The so-called Free Textbook Programme will allocate more than €5.4 million and benefit more than 86,000 students in Almeria specifically. Students who enrol in the registered courses will receive a book voucher and a list of textbooks to redeem at a local bookstore of their choice, at no cost. With this programme, the governing bodies of the community of Andalucia hope to provide financial aid to families, facilitate the learning and growth of students, and create accessible academic materials and resources that all students can benefit from for years to come.
Costa Calida Hotel boom
THE Region of Murcia will see a big boost in tourism, with 16 new hotels planned to open over the next three years. These projects will bring more than 700 extra rooms for visitors. The most eye-catching news is the opening of three five-star hotels. One will be built in Alhama, another in San Pedro del Pinatar, and Murcia City will finally get its first five-star hotel when the Arco de San Juan reopens.
Four more hotels will carry a four-star rating, including new options in Cartagena, Molina de Segura, and Caravaca de la Cruz. There will also be new mid-range choices, with two three-star hotels and one two-star hotel on the way. Tourist apartments are also planned for Cartagena.
Cartagena comes out on top, with four of the new hotels set to open there, strengthening its role as a leading destination on the Murcian coast. Overall, the new hotels are expected to attract more visitors, create jobs, and raise the profile of the region as a quality destination in Spain.
The house-sitting and pet-setting business
THE origins of house-sitting goes back to early pet ownership. You help neighbours when they’re away from home, ensuring pets are cared for. Though if a pet owner lives away from close networks finding support is harder. HouseSitMatch helps!
When I was working in corporate, I always needed sitters to care for my property and pets. So, when a friend came to visit from Australia and said she’d been house-sitting in exchange for free home and pet care, the penny dropped. What a great idea!
Pet-sitting like a friend
Our philosophy is pet-sit like a friend, so you collaborate fairly. By working through a managed platform, you access a wider network of checked sitters for more choice. You find people to help, pet lovers and retired folk who love travel and enjoy a spot of gardening.
I loved this idea so much that I gave up a 25-year London career and invested in building HouseSit-
INTERVIEW
Match, for people to meet safely online.
Every home needs one
Most of us have homes, pets and travel occasionally. HouseSitMatch has helped all kinds of clients find
Speaking European: Rebecca PierikFrom Amsterdam to Benidorm
Originally from Amsterdam, Rebecca Pierik arrived in Spain almost by accident. She rst came for a few months during the nancial crisis, unable to sell her home in the Netherlands. Recently divorced and unemployed, she took a holiday to decide her next move.
IN 2014, she travelled through Suriname and Cuba for three months. Returning to a struggling Dutch economywithout work, a partner, or a home - she began comparing the €2,500 monthly cost of living in Amsterdam to Spain’s €1,000. The idea of relocating took hold.
At first she considered Barcelona or Malaga, but by chance chose Benidorm. Her parents approved, and she rented a house online for a month. She drove down with her mother, while her father flew. Within weeks she was working in a Dutch bar. Rebecca learned Spanish, earned her teaching licence, and, drawing on her naval background, joined the Red Cross in Altea. For the past four years she has volunteered in emergency services and on ambulances in Benidorm.
pporters’ clubs. Earlier this year, she and her chef launched a cooking workshop where guests learn to prepare paella, enjoy alioli and pa amb tomàquet, and dine together.
Today, she teaches Spanish to Dutch learners and belongs to two Athletic Bilbao su-
Fully booked for September, the venture is thriving. Rebecca, also a licensed lifeguard, said to Euro Weekly News: “I didn’t want to be a foreigner living in Spain - I wanted to live like the Spanish. It’s been a chance to meet people, improve my Spanish, and embrace the culture.”
pet care and security, and frankly every home should have one. They keep pets at home and homes running smoothly. Home and pet owners choose their sitters, house-sitters apply for places to visit and the pets they love to care for. Yet, not a penny changes hands. It’s old-fashioned barter!
Growing and running a hou-
se-sitting business
We began in Europe and the UK, and now we go further afield. We help retired grandparents living in Spain wanting to visit family abroad and any expats needing help with pets when they want to travel, or just wanting to keep their home secure in their absence.
the UK, and now we go years of Covid
Ten years on we’ve won a Guardian newspaper award and earned a Trustpilot rating of 4.8/5. And we survived Covid and Brexit. As any business owner will know growing a business is hard, but recent years were a challenge. However, we’re lucky with our collaborative members and we always want to welcome more.
I still house-sit myself so I can meet clients, and if we can’t meet in person I’ll call on the phone. Want to join our HouseSitMatch community?
Here I am pet-sitting for Delphi. sitters. Sitters help with
Portrait of Rebecca Pierik, and her in action as a Red Cross volunteer assisting a person in the sea.
PETS
Pets need clean water
PETS need constant access to water in order to stay alive. All pets should have access to a clean, fresh bowl of water. Place it by their food bowl and try to refill it at least twice a day. Your pet will then be healthy, hydrated, and happy.
Our house-sitters love animals
THE thing about our HouseSit Match house-sitters is that they just love animals and pets. Most of them prefer to stay at home with pets while they travel because they love the company. Many have had pets in the past but no longer have them at home so house-sitting is a great way to enjoy the company of a pet while discovering a new location. It can be a great way to travel for the right house-sitter. And the pet owner benefits because your pets are cared for in the home. It’s a win-win!
The pet-sitters come for free!
If you’re planning a trip in 2024 register now to find pet-sitters in time. Earlier is better than later. Whether your trip is short or long, get organised ahead of time. All pets benefit from staying at home, so they can follow their routines undisturbed. Join our pet and house-sitting network, and the sitters come for free!
Choose HouseSitMatch for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:
1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com
2. Choose a Standard account (£89 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed
3. Create a profile with photos
of your pet and the house
4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work?
HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert saying when you are going on holiday. House-sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter who’ll care for your pets.
Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.8 / 5 Excellent
Pure Joy - I have completed two house-sits so far so early days. Both sits have been well suited to me and my dog.
Thoroughly enjoyable experiences with beautiful homes and well-rounded animals. I’m looking for more!
Lisa Stimpson, pet-sitter from the UK
How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com Need a pet-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!
Functional formulas
HEALTHY dogs are lively, curious and full of energy, which is why more owners are looking to supplements to help maintain their pets’ well-being. Whether to support joints, improve digestion or add a glossy shine to their coat, dog vitamins are becoming a familiar part of feeding routines. These supplements are particularly popular with those caring for older dogs or breeds with specific health concerns.
In Spain, a variety of canine supplements can be found in pet shops, veterinary clinics and reputable online retailers. Options range from multivitamins and fish oils to probiotics, glucosamine and calming formulas.
While many are ba-
sed on natural ingredients and commonly used in veterinary care, not all have undergone thorough clinical testing. Some are supported
more by experience than scientific trials. Choosing the right supplement depends on your dog’s individual needs, so it is always wise to consult a vet before adding anything new. The right support can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
Tiera loves animlals and is a very experienced house-sitter.
22 CLASSIFIEDS 21 -
AWNINGS
CHARITY
MISCELLANEOUS
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BUY & SELL
PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)
New Life Church Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us at our Sunday gathering. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With Tea and Coffee afterwards. Sunday Service 11.00am; Prayer Meetings Wednesdays 11.00am; Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780 Email: info@nlcnerja.com Website: www.nlcnerja.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ nlcnerj
CHARITY Shop Pocapecunia we need things for the house/ kitchen, decoration, vases,
plates, cups, saucers, kitchen tools, paintings, pottery pots and pans etc. Prolongacion Avd. Rodgriguez Acosta, Nr the Parador Roundabout, opposite café Trébol, Nerja (294373)
CHURCH SERVICES
THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC service - please contact Fr Nigel with an e-mail address if you would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House - 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail: cofenerja@gmail. com
ST BARNABAS IERE Church, meets at Lux Mundi Centre, Avd Moscatel, Torre del Mar, every Sunday from 11am. More info call Jon 447738 148 306
GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel - 678 716 693 (288662)
SOLAR PROTECTION CARS FOR
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WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)
OTHERS
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WINDOW TINTING
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If you can read it, so can your clients. Contact us and have your business grow at + 34 951 386 161
Honda refresh enduring Civic
ROAD TEST
By Mark Slack
HONDA has given its Civic e:HEV a refresh, introducing updated interior styling and exterior design changes, alongside its range assuring hybrid performance.
Every Civic trim level now features a redesigned front upper and lower grille, highlighted in black gloss and finished with a new grille and headlight trim for a sharper and arguably more sporting look. New 46cm/18-inch two-tone, diamond cut alloy wheels in grey for Advance grade and black in Sport grade models add to the Civic’s striking exterior.
In addition, all grades will no longer have front fog lights, for a cleaner look, that has been made possible by improved LED headlight technology. To complement these upgrades, a new exterior paint option is now available in Seabed Blue. Inside, all trims will feature a new black interior roof and pillars
In addition, the Advance model will now include interior illumination and footwell lights, while the Sport grade features a new heated steering wheel for improved driver comfort during colder drives. It also receives a 26cm/10.2-inch Digital Driver Display to offer clearer gra-
Shared lane sign
SPAIN’S streets now have a new splash of blue: the S43 road sign. Rolled out from July, it’s part of a national update to make road markings clearer and better suited to modern traffic. The sign’s design is simple but striking - a blue background featuring three icons: a pedestrian, a bicycle and an electric scooter.
The S43 marks shared-use zones where walkers, cyclists and personal mobility vehicles (like e-scooters) all have designated space. Instead of a free-for-all, it signals that the path or lane ahead is divided into sections, keeping pedestrians, bikes and scooters in their own area. That means fewer near-misses, less swerving and a smoother flow for everyone.
Its arrival comes as Spanish towns and cities adapt to a surge in alternative transport. With more people leaving cars at home, pa-
vements and cycle lanes are busier - and conflicts between users more common. The new sign aims to reduce those tensions, making it clear who belongs where and helping all three groups move without getting in each other’s way.
For pedestrians, it means fewer scooters darting past unexpectedly. For cyclists and scooter riders, it’s a green light to ride without weaving through crowds. And for everyone, it’s a small step towards safer, greener and calmer urban travel.
phics and improved visibility. Finally, all Elegance vehicles will now offer wireless charging within the centre console, ensuring ease of access for both driver and passenger. Elegance models will now include an auto dim feature on the rear-view mirror, which previously came as standard in the Sport and Advance grades.
Every Civic e:HEV is equipped with an array of Honda SENSING active safety technologies including the Forward Collision Warning System, designed to detect the presence of vehicles in front, issuing audible, visual and tactile alerts for the driver when approaching with too much speed.
A wide-angle, high-definition camera can identify objects accurately, including pedestrians in both light and dark environments.
At the heart of Honda’s e:HEV powertrain are two electric motors, powered by the EV battery or the engine depending on driving conditions. The system is designed to switch between three distinct driving modes - Electric, Hybrid, and Engine Drive - enabling it to adapt to different driving conditions. For those with varying driving requirements, including long journeys, a full hybrid is a reassuring option if an EV creates too much concern on range and charging.
The latest Honda Civic e:HEV is priced from €39,306/£33,795 for the Elegance trim, the Sport model from €41,167/£35,395 and the Advance €45,006/£38,695.
The new S43 road sign signals dedicated spaces for e-scooters, bikes, and pedestrians.
Credit : X - Dir. Gral. Tráfico @DGTes
Messi close to new record
ARGENTINE football
star Lionel Messi, currently playing with Inter Miami in the US, has one up on Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of goal assists.
Although Messi is reducing the goal gap versus Ronaldo with 875 against CR7’s 938, another statistic shows the former Barcelona striker is about to make history.
Goal assists require a great measure of creativity, fast decision-making and under pressure, as well as vision and strategic capabilities.
That said, the now US Major League Soccer star is just a handful of passes away from reaching a historic milestone: 400 assists.
That would also put him only four away from the world record set decades ago by Hungarian superstar Ferenc Puskas, 79 years old, and who each year is honoured by FIFA, which annually delivers a Puskas
commemorative trophy to the player in world football who has scored the ‘most beautiful’ goal of the calendar year.
For Messi, who currently has 389 career assists to his name, breaking that world historic record will not be difficult, according to BolaVIP, primarily because the Argentine
forward stands out every game for being a player who works collaboratively with the rest of his squad in search of a goal.
On the other hand, Ronaldo boasts only 257 career assists. He has proven he can provide passes, but he proves he focuses primarily on being the finisher.
Girl makes chess history
A 10-YEAR-OLD British girl from London has made chess history by becoming the youngest female player ever to beat a grandmaster, earning the title of woman international master.
Bodhana Sivanandan, from northwest London, defeated 60-year-old grandmaster Pete Wells in the final round of the 2025 British Chess Championships in Liverpool on Sunday, August 9.
1 Magnus Carlsen.
At only 10 years, five months and three days, Sivanandan broke the record set by American Carissa Yip, who was 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old when she defeated a grand master in 2019, according to the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
Sivanandan is now an international master, one level below the female-exclusive woman grandmaster title; the highest title in chess is grandmaster, owned by the likes of current world chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju and world No.
League ends partnership
THE Premier League has announced it will end its eight-year partnership with Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, a prominent initiative promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in English football.
Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily.
Since 2017, the league collaborated with Stonewall to encourage players to wear rainbow-coloured laces, clubs to display rainbow branding, and fans to show support, with a dedicated round of fixtures highlighting the campaign each season.
Stadiums, broadcasters, and official channels regularly showcased rainbow symbols as a visual commitment to diversity. The partnership will conclude before the 2025–26 season. In its place, the Premier League plans a new in-house campaign in February, coinciding with LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK. The league has stated the initiative will maintain its focus on diversity and
inclusion but broaden its scope to support multiple under-represented communities within football. Players and clubs may still display rainbow symbols voluntarily, but the league will no longer coordinate or require official match-day displays, potentially reducing the visibility of LGBTQ+ representation across televised games and stadiums.
Reactions to the change have been mixed. Some campaigners and supporters warn that stepping back from Rainbow Laces could diminish representation for groups who felt included. Conversely, many fans and commentators welcome the move, arguing football should prioritise the sport itself and that social campaigns risk distracting from the game and dividing supporters. The Premier League is expected to provide more details about its February campaign closer to launch.
Diogo Jota lives on
LIVERPOOL’S Premier League season opener against Bournemouth on August 15 was marked by a heartfelt tribute to the late Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident in July alongside his brother, André Silva. For the first time since the tragedy, Jota’s family attended a match at Anfield, including his wife, Rute Cardoso, their three children, and his parents.
Sivanandan said she picked up the sport during the Covid pandemic when she was five, after one of her dad’s friends gifted them some toys and books.
“In one of the bags, I saw a chessboard, and I was interested in the pieces,” she told the BBC. “I wanted to use the pieces as toys. Instead, my dad said that I could play the game, and then I started from there.”
She says chess makes her feel ‘good’ and helps her with ‘lots of other things like maths, how to calculate’.
The occasion was deeply emotional. Tears were reportedly seen among players, including captain Virgil van Dijk and forward Mo Salah, reflecting the strong bonds within the squad. Fans united in remembrance, with a minute’s silence, a mosaic display, and a rendition of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ before kick-off.
Bournemouth also paid homage, with their players and supporters observing the silence and displaying
banners in memory of Jota and Silva.
Liverpool announced that Jota’s No. 20 shirt would be retired across all levels of the club and revealed plans for a grassroots programme in his name to support young footballers. Manager Arne Slot emphasised the importance of supporting the grieving family, praising the unity shown by players, staff, and supporters. Throughout the match, the stadium was
filled with floral tributes, scarves, and heartfelt messages, highlighting the profound impact Jota had both on and off the pitch. The emotional day was topped off by a Liverpool win, providing a sense of triumph alongside remembrance. The tribute demonstrated the power of the football community to come together in times of loss.
Lionel Messi is on path to break the world’s record in career goal assists. He currently boasts 389.
Liverpool announced that Jota’s Nº20 will be retired.
Photo credit: Jason Wells/Shutterstock
Bodhana Sivanandan playing chess in September 2024.
