Costa Calida 4 – 10 September 2025 Issue 2096

A royal visit

PRINCESS LEONOR, heir to the Spanish throne, has arrived at the General Air and Space Academy (AGA) in San Javier to continue her military training. The academy in Santiago de la Ribera is the same place where her father, King Felipe VI, trained as a cadet in 1987-1988. Leonor joins the 78th class of the AGA as an alférez Borbón.

She will go straight into the fourth year, following a condensed programme to prepare her for flying the Pilatus training aircraft. Before her first flight, she will complete at least 50 hours on flight simulators. Academy officials have made it clear that she will not get special treatment and will follow the same routine as all other students. Her day will start at 6.30am with reveille, breakfast at 7, classes until 6.00pm, and free time for studying, exercise, or walking until lights out at 10.00pm.

Princess Leonor will also balance her academy life with royal duties, including attending National Day events and prize

well as visits to regional government offices and local towns.

Her training will cover piloting aircraft, drones, and space operations, reflecting the Air and Space branch’s role since 2022. The first solo flight usually comes about a month to six weeks after starting, depending on skill and progress.

Colonel Asenjo highlighted the growing num-

AGA, which now has 483 cadets, up 9.3 per cent from last year, with women making up 18.1 per cent of the total. Defence Minister Margarita Robles praised Leonor for

her dedication, professionalism, and ability to fit in, saying her presence is a positive example of the values of the Spanish Armed Forces for young people.

International Welcome

RODA, a small town in San Javier, celebrated its annual festival weekend with the traditional ‘English breakfast.’ The event, now in its 13th year, highlights how the town welcomes international residents.

More than 400 people attended the breakfast in the town’s pine grove. Roda’s foreign community prepared and served the meal, which included bacon, sausages, fried eggs, beans, and mushrooms. Lourdes Sánchez, president of the festival committee, explained that the breakfast began as a way to include English residents in the local festivities. Today, the event has grown into International Day, also welcoming Irish, Scottish, and other European residents who have made Roda their home.

Phoebe Liddiard, an English resident of Roda for 11 years, spoke at the event, noting how the festival brings everyone together. Mayor José Miguel Luengo and councillor Isabel Madrid attended and praised the welcoming and inclusive spirit of the celebrations. The International Day continued with a grilled hamburger dinner and music, followed by traditional festival activities including a migas night and a mass, procession, and sardinada in honour of the town’s patron saint, the Virgin of Los Remedios.

Costa Calida • No. 2096 • 4 - 10 Sept 2025 FREE FREE FREI GRATIS

GRATIS GRATIS GRATIS GRATUITO VRIJ LIVRE ILMAINEN G F GRATIS GRATUIT G DARMOWY D

English Breakfast Tradition.

San Javier Town Hall

Ejército del Aire

Princess Leonor begins training.

World’s best nightlife

A NIGHTCLUB in Murcia is putting the city on the international nightlife map. Odiseo, located in Murcia city, has been nominated for ‘The World’s 100 Best Clubs 2025', a prestigious ranking featuring 545 top venues from 72 countries.

Spain is the second most-nominated country, just behind the United States, reflecting the country’s strong reputation for nightlife. Last year, HÏ Ibiza was named the world’s best club, and Ushuaïa Ibiza came third, showing Spanish venues can compete on the global stage.

Odiseo is more than just a club. Designed by architect Manuel Clavel and inspired by the Parthenon, it blends dining, nightclub entertainment, and event spaces. Its striking cantilevered pool, the largest in Europe, has quickly become a city landmark. The venue is run by Grupo Orenes and promises a full night out, from drinks and dinner to dancing.

Helping seniors

CARTAGENA is looking for volunteers to help reduce loneliness among the city’s older residents. The local council has launched a programme called ‘Vecino de barrio’ (Neighbour of the Neighborhood), which encourages people to spend time with seniors in their neighbourhoods.

The project aims to connect volunteers with elderly residents who may feel isolated. Volunteers can visit, chat, or simply o er company, making a real di erence in someone’s day. The council highlights that the experience benets both the seniors and the volunteers, o ering an opportunity for meaningful connections.

join, even if they can only dedicate a small amount of time.

Odiseo’s nomination shows that Murcia can hold its own alongside the world’s most famous nightlife spots, offering both residents and tourists a night to remember.

Public voting is open until October 31, giving you a chance to support the club online. The final results will be revealed on November 19 during the Golden Moon Awards, hosted by DJs Anna Tur and Judge Jules.

Anyone interested in taking part can register or ask for more information by calling 968 182 204 / 51. There is also a WhatsApp contact available at 673 613 173. The Council encourages people of all ages to

"Being a volunteer can be very rewarding," said organisers. "It’s not just about helping someone else, it’s about building relationships and learning from each other."

With an ageing population, initiatives like ‘Vecino de barrio’ are becoming more important in helping seniors feel connected to their community. The programme shows that simple acts of companionship can have a big impact on wellbeing.

Murcia’s nightlife goes global.

Image: Facebook/ ODISEO

Help seniors in Cartagena.

Image: Shutterstock/ pikselstock

Spain family credit

Up to €2,400 yearly aid

SPAIN has introduced a new family tax credit worth up to €2,400 per year, available as monthly payments or an Income Tax (IRPF) deduction. Announced by Hacienda, the measure aims to ease pressure from rising living costs. It’s one of the most flexible supports available, with families eligible regardless of whether their tax return results in a refund or payment.

Standard large families (usually with three children) can receive €1,200 annually or €100 monthly. Special-category large families (five or more children) get €2,400, plus €600 for each child from the fifth onward. Other eligible households include single parents with two children, families with a disabled member, and those affected by gender-based violence or long-term hospitalisation or imprisonment of a parent.

Applicants must be Spanish tax residents under set income and asset limits. Children earning wages or receiving unemployment benefits can’t be included. Families choose between monthly advances (€100/€200) or year-end deductions. Once approved, credits renew automatically unless circumstances change, which must be reported to AEAT.

Applications are made using Modelo 143 via the Agencia Tributaria website, app, or local office. Required documents include ID, family registry proof, lar -

ge-family or disability certificates, and bank details. With household costs still high, the credit provides welcome relief. Applying early ensures quicker support and more predictable monthly budgets.

https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/inicio.html

Spain’s €2,400 ‘family cheque’: eligible families can claim monthly advances or an IRPF deduction.

September’s Welcome Return

Goodbye, August heat - hello, September breeze! Spain finally exhales after a month of fiestas, visitors and sweltering afternoons. August is fun, frantic, and a little mad - we love it while it lasts, but we’re all secretly glad when September sweeps in with cooler days and calmer rhythms.

At Euro Weekly News, September means one thing: the return of our regular columnists. Fresh from their summer break, they’re back with sharp opinions, fresh insights, and plenty of stories to share. Week after week, their voices add colour and character to our pages - sometimes bold, sometimes witty, always unmissable.

This week, your favourite newspaper is again packed with everything you love: breaking news, lively views, tempting restaurant reviews, lifestyle picks - and those much-missed columns that make The People’s Paper everyone’s essential weekly read.

So here’s to September: cooler nights, brighter mornings, and a newspaper bursting with energy for the season ahead.

Euro Weekly News - your life, your stories, your paper.

Season of scrutiny Bank delays

Autumn letters from Hacienda

FOR Spain’s self-employed, September often brings more than cooler weather. After the IRPF campaign closed on June 30 and straightforward refunds were paid through July and August, autumn is when the Agencia Tributaria turns to files that don’t match its databases. Between September and December, freelancers in particular can expect reque

rimientos - official requests for clarification when 2024 tax returns don’t align with third-party data.

Autonomos are most exposed because their income flows through multiple channels - clients, banks, TPV terminals, PayPal, and online platforms - creating more chances for mismatches. Triggers

are usually administrative, not intentional: platform payouts forgotten in the return, card payments not linked to income lines, or claiming car, phone and broadband at 100 per cent despite private use. Grants and subsidies from 2024, often taxable, can also be missed. A common red flag is when annual IRPF figures don’t reconcile with quarterly models (130/131) or VAT returns (303/390). Sometimes Hacienda even queries “external signs” like a new car or major renovations that clash with modest declared income.

The good news is that a requerimiento is not a fine. It’s a chance to confirm figures or correct mistakes. Read the deadline carefully, rebuild the evidence trail with invoices, bank records and platform statements, reconcile with quarterly filings, and if needed, file a voluntary correction. Upload documents neatly through the Agencia Tributaria portal and keep the receipt. Handled promptly, most cases are resolved before Christmas. Delays can lead to surcharges and penalties.

UK fraud law impacts expats

A PROPOSED UK anti-fraud law will allow banks to delay bank transfers for up to four days to investigate potential fraud, targeting the £460 million lost in 2023. This could impact expats in Spain relying on UK accounts for living expenses, bills, or business transactions.

The law extends the current 24-hour processing period by 72 hours, allowing banks to withhold payments if they suspect undeclared funds. Banks must notify customers of delays and compensate for interest or late fees, but cross-border claims may be complicated by time zones or language barriers.

International transfers to Spanish accounts, especially large sums or to unfamiliar recipients, may face increased scrutiny due to AI-based fraud monitoring, potentially delaying property purchases or supplier payments. Rocio Concha from Which? supports the measure but notes it shouldn’t affect most daily payments. To avoid delays, expats can use digital platforms like N26, Wise, or Revolut for near-instant transfers, though fees vary. From 2026, these platforms must report transfers to Spanish tax authorities, which may slow approvals. Currency brokers like Currencies Direct or Lumon offer fast, low-cost transfers for larger sums. For emergencies, Western Union or MoneyGram provide quick cash pickups at higher costs. Expats should plan transfers early, use Spanish accounts for routine expenses, or opt for multi-currency accounts to reduce reliance on UK banks.

Credit : fizkes, Shutterstock

From September Hacienda will start sending discrepancy letters on 2024 returns.

Ancient predictions

AS summer ends, many in Murcia turn their attention to Pepe Buitrago, better known as el cabañuelo de Mula. He is one of the few who still studies las cabañuelas, an ancient method of forecasting the weather by observing natural signs and patterns at the close of summer. Once a common practice in farming communities, it continues to spark interest among those curious to know what the coming months may bring.

According to Buitrago, autumn will bring generous rainfall to much of the region, with heavier episodes possible between mid- and late October. From early November, storms could last for

Laughter as therapy

EACH year, about 4,000 children at Virgen de la Arrixaca Hospital in Murcia receive support from hospital clowns through a partnership between the Murcia Health Service and the Pupaclown Foundation.

Traditional forecasting points to storms.

several days at a time, particularly affecting areas such as Caravaca, Calasparra, Cieza, Lorca, and Molina de Segura.

The winter forecast is harsh: very cold conditions with severe frosts not seen in years, along with the possibility of snow in higher inland parts of Murcia between late November and early December. Spring, by contrast, should be a mix of wind, showers, and mild temperatures.

Looking further ahead, summer 2026 will be hot and dry, although not as extreme as this year. Still, Buitrago warns of heatwaves in July and scorching days in August, especially inland.

Ancient rivalry

CARTAGENA is getting ready for its biggest yearly celebration, the Carthaginians and Romans Festival. This popular event usually happens in September, this year it takes place from September 19 to 28. This festival brings the city’s history to life with parades, battles, and cultural activities.

The festival is based on events from over 2,200 years ago, when the Carthaginians and Romans fought for control of the city, then called Qart-Hadast. Today, it is one of Spain’s most famous historical reenactments, drawing crowds from around the region.

During the festival, people can watch dramatic reenactments of key moments in history, from the founding of Qart-Hadast to the Roman conquest. The city also fills with music, colourful costumes, markets, live shows, and traditional food, with something for everyone.

Preparations are already underway. Camps are being set up, performances rehearsed, and organisers are putting the final touches in place. The festival is not only a way to celebrate Cartagena’s past but also a chance for the community to come together and enjoy the city in a really unique way.

The agreement allows professional clowns to work with young patients and their families, offering laughter and emotional support during difficult times. Their visits help children cope with surgery, chronic illness, or long hospital stays, while also giving families and staff moments of relief.

The work goes beyond entertainment. The clowns use theatre and humour as part of therapy, helping reduce stress and improve the overall hospital experience. They also support children in adapting to treatment and provide comfort in serious or end-of-life situations.

Isabel Ayala, manager of the Murcia Health Service, said the project has raised the hospital’s quality of care and helped make treatment more humane.

Pupaclown has been working with Arrixaca Hospital since 1998. Over nearly 30 years, their efforts have shown how something as simple as a laugh can ease fear, improve wellbeing, and create stronger emotional connections for both children and their families.

Image: Facebook/ Pepe Buitrago

Pupaclown brings smiles and support.

Countdown begins for Carthaginians and Romans.

Race for Life

MABS Mazarrón is preparing to host its annual Race for Life this October, marking a very special milestone, the 20th anniversary of the event. The popular fundraiser will take place on Sunday, October 26, starting at 10.00 am in Camposol.

Over the past two decades, the Race for Life has become a key date on the local calendar, bringing together residents and visitors to raise funds for MABS. The charity provides vital support to people in the community who have been diagnosed with cancer, offering counselling, transport, and practical help during treatment.

This year’s race offers two routes, a 4km and an 8km course, so participants can choose the distance that best suits them.

Organisers stress that there are no strict rules, participants are welcome to run, walk, or even skip their way around the course.

The main focus is on joining in, having fun, and supporting an important cause.

Entry costs €10 for adults and €5 for children under 12, making

it an accessible way for the whole family to get involved. With this being the 20th anniversary, organisers are expecting a strong turnout and a great atmosphere. For many, the Race for Life is more than just a fundraiser; it is a day that brings the community together in solidarity and hope.

Roman revival

THE Roman Amphitheatre in Cartagena is moving into a new phase of work. Visitors will now be able to explore parts of the site while archaeologists continue excavations. The project aims to uncover half of the arena (the central area where events were held) and find the remains of the seating in the northwestern section.

Mayor Noelia Arroyo said a new visitor pavilion will be built to welcome guests.

The walking route through the site has been changed to include the fossa bestiaria, a pit used in ancient times to hold animals before events. Excavations and restoration work are happening at the same time in the northern and southern sections. This allows vi -

sitors to safely see both restored areas and ongoing archaeological work.

Previous excavations focused on the southwestern area, including the libitinaria gate, used in Roman times for certain ceremonies. The project is important for Cartagena’s history and city development. It will improve the university district, connect with the Polytechnic University, and attract more visitors.

Architect Andrés Cánovas said this phase will finish in about two months, while the next phase begins. The project costs over €4 million, funded by the Ministry of Housing and the City Council. Once complete, the amphitheatre will be part of Cartagena’s cultural tour routes.

Step Up for MABS.

Image: Shutterstock/ wavebreakmedia

Explore the Roman Amphitheatre.

Cruise season

FAST Red Folder

CARTAGENA’s port is busy this September, welcoming cruise ships from around the world. The city will see a mix of large and smaller vessels, giving passengers a chance to explore Cartagena’s historic streets, Roman sites, and local attractions.

Highlights include AIDASTELLA from AIDA Cruises, arriving with 2,700 passengers, and Marella Discovery bringing over 2,000 visitors mid-month. Oceania Cruises also calls twice, with ALLURA and VISTA, carrying 1,469 and 1,200 guests. Smaller luxury ships, including The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will also dock, along with Viking Ocean Cruises

Bartolo

and Mystic Cruises, which bring hundreds of travellers.

Even smaller ships, such as Hebridean Sky and Le Laperouse, show that Cartagena appeals to a wide range of cruise lines. With more than a dozen ships scheduled in September, the port has become a popular stop for international travellers. Cartagena’s mix of history and easy access from the port continues to attract cruise passengers. Shops, restaurants, and local attractions benefit from the steady flow of visitors. The September schedule shows that the port can handle ships of different sizes while giving passengers a memorable experience of the city and, of course, it’s interesting heritage.

FAST (First Aid Support Team) in Camposol reminds residents that the Red Folder project is available to help during medical emergencies. This initiative is especially useful for people living alone, making sure that emergency teams have vital information when it’s needed most.

The Red Folder contains a simple information sheet where you can record important details, along with space for prescriptions or hospital discharge notes. Neighbours, caregivers, or emergency responders can use this information if you are too ill or unable to communicate. Residents can pick up a free red folder from the FAST desk outside Alley Palais, available Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. The Ta -

quilla ticket office on A sector on weekday mornings. Gestoria Carvajal office behind the petrol station on B sector from 9-5 on weekdays. Each folder also comes with a sticker for your front door or fridge, showing emergency services where to find it quickly.

FAST has partnered with the Mazarrón town hall, Protección Civil, AVC, and the Camposol Business As -

sociation to make this project widely accessible. The initiative is open to everyone, not just English speakers, and if successful, it may expand further across the Mazarrón area. Don’t wait; having your Red Folder ready can make a real difference in an emergency. Stop by the FAST desk today and ensure your information is easy to find when it matters most.

Cartagena grows as a top cruise stop.

Image: ritz-carltonyachtcollection.com/Eric

Red Folder saves time.

Image: Suzanne Reid

NEWS Travel

Sintra - forested hills, royal palaces, and Atlantic breezes

AROUND 30 kilometres from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its historical buildings, wooded hills, and proximity to the Atlantic coast. Part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it includes a mix of royal palaces, castles, gardens, and traditional Portuguese architecture. The cooler microclimate and forested landscape made it a popular summer destination for nobility in the 18th and 19th centuries, and it remains one of the most visited areas in Portugal.

Several camper-friendly campsites and overnight parking areas are found on the outskirts, especially near Colares, Praia das Maçãs, and along the road from Cascais. From these, the main sights are accessible by public bus, bike, or a short drive.

Local foods

Sintra is known for its rich pastries - particularly travesseiros and

cultural and religious events. In August, Mercado de Vila hosts openair concerts and craft displays. On the coast, traditional events continue in places like Azenhas do Mar, with grilled fish and folklore dancing in the summer. Many festivities reflect Sintra’s literary and

Quinta da Regaleira with its inverted tower, and the Castelo dos Mouros with stone walls dating to the eighth century. Cabo da Roca marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe, with trails along the cliffs. What to do

Walking trails crisscross the hills

Child rescued

LOCAL police officers saved the life of a twoyear-old child who had been left inside a car in the hot sun recently in Cabo de Palos. The incident took place in the parking lot of a supermarket while the child’s mother was shopping.

According to José Ramón Llorca, the City Council’s Security spokesperson, officers found the boy unresponsive when they arrived. ‘The child did not respond to stimuli, so the officers broke a car window to rescue him,” Llorca said. Once outside, the child was moved inside the supermarket to take advantage of the cooler air and stabilise his body temperature until emergency services arrived.

The UME medical team confirmed the

child’s critical condition and highlighted that the police intervention was key in preventing a fatal outcome. The boy was taken to Hospital Santa Lucía, where he received medical care.

Cartagena Mayor Noelia Arroyo proposed an official commendation for the officers involved. The Guardia Civil is handling the investigation and arranged for the car to be moved to the municipal impound.

The mayor praised the police for their prompt action. ‘Their quick response and calm handling of the situation undoubtedly saved a young life,” she said.

This case serves as a reminder of the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, especially during hot weather.

Gentle helpers

FRIENDS OF MAZARRÓN ANIMALS (FMA), a local registered association dedicated to improving the lives of abandoned and unwanted animals, is calling for patient volunteers to spend time with some of the shelter’s shyest residents.

Larry and Alaia are two of the dogs who struggle to feel safe outside their kennels. Unlike other dogs who enjoy running and playing in the shelter’s yard or pool, these two hide at the back, too scared to join in.

FMA is seeking committed volunteers who can dedicate a few hours each week to sit quietly with these dogs, helping them gain trust and confidence. No walking or strenuous activity is required, just patience, a big heart, and perhaps a tasty treat such as a piece of chicken.

“Even just a couple of hours on a Tuesday or Friday morning can make a big difference,” said the FMA team. “We want these

dogs to know they are safe and loved.”

Volunteers will have the chance to form a special bond with dogs that might otherwise be overlooked.

FMA emphasises that consistency and care can help these shy animals slowly come out of their shells

and feel more comfortable around people.

Those interested in helping Larry, Alaia, and other dogs at the Mazarrón shelter are encouraged to contact FMA through a private message on their Facebook page, Friends of Mazarrón Animals.

Police save toddler left in hot car.

Image: Cartagena.es

Change a shy dog’s life.

Image: Friends of Mazarrón Animals

Pop Rock Night COSTA CALIDA

KIOSKO MIGUEL, a family-friendly outdoor tapas bar near Tentegorra in Cartagena, is hosting a live music night on Friday, September 12. Set in the lovely Parque de los Canales del Taibilla, the bar is known for its tasty tapas, cold drinks, and relaxed atmosphere.

The local band Los Intocables will perform from 9.00pm, playing the biggest pop-rock hits from the 80s and 90s. It’s a perfect night for anyone who enjoys classic tunes and a lively but laid-back night out.

Visitors can snack on delicious tapas while listening to the live music. There will also be cold beers and other drinks available, making it a great spot to spend a few hours with friends or family. Reservations are advised to make sure you get a table. You can book by calling 662 153 171.

Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or just a fun night out, Kiosko Miguel offers a welcoming and enjoyable setting. It promises to be a good time with great tunes, tasty bites, and a friendly atmosphere.

Fundraiser Day

MABS San Javier, a local cancer support charity, is preparing for its annual Picnic in the Park fundraiser this September. The event will take place on September 14 at 3.00pm at La Zona Terraza in Los Narejos.

Zoco del Mar RESTAURANT REVIEW

ZOCO DEL MAR is a restaurant and chill-out space set in one of the most striking locations in Águilas. It sits on the esplanade just below the San Juan de las Águilas Castle, a landmark that overlooks two bays on either side. The setting gives diners some of the best views anywhere along the Murcia coast.

The restaurant focuses on Mediterranean food served in a simple but carefully designed environment. It is a place where people can sit down for lunch, dinner, or enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the sea.

Dining with amazing views in Águilas.

locals and visitors.

To make the venue easier to reach, Zoco del Mar also offers a free bus service from the main square in Águilas.

The charity supports people living with cancer across the region by providing counselling, translators, transport, medical equipment, and complementary therapies. All funds raised go directly toward helping cancer patients and their families through difficult times.

Tickets for the picnic cost €10 and are now on sale at La Zona and the MABS Charity Shop in San Javier. Organi-

mend buying early, as the event is expected to sell out.

Guests can enjoy live entertainment throughout the afternoon. You’re welcome to bring your own picnic food or buy from La Zona on the day. However, drinks must be purchased at the venue. There will also be a raffle and tom-

bola, with all proceeds supporting the charity’s work. This popular annual event is a great opportunity to have fun and support a worthy cause at the same time.

For more information, email sjpublici ty@mabscancerfoun dation.org or visit MABS San Javier on Facebook.

What sets Zoco del Mar apart is its combination of food and entertainment. Flamenco nights bring live music and dancing to the terrace, while themed parties, including popular ‘pirate nights’, create a great atmosphere. These events have made it more than just a restaurant, turning it into a cultural meeting point for both

Booking a table at Zoco del Mar is simple. The restaurant is located on the Explanada del Castillo in

Águilas, Spain, just below the San Juan de las Águilas Castle. Reservations can be made by calling 674 52 25 17 or by visiting their website at zocodelmar. com. Because of its popularity and location, it is recommended to book in advance.

Burger Festival

SAN JAVIER is hosting one of the biggest burger events in Murcia at Parque Almansa. The festival will have top burgers, music, and a fun atmosphere for everyone.

The event, Acho Burger Land, brings together local chefs and food fans for a weekend of burgers and music. People can try different burgers while listening to DJs play live music.

A highlight this year is the Chati Deluxe, the burger that won the Acho Burger Land competition in Águilas. Fans can enjoy this award-winning burger again in San Javier.

The festival is for families, friends, and anyone in the area. Along with great food, there will be music and a

chance to enjoy a weekend out. Acho Burger Land keeps getting more popular, showing the creativity of local chefs and food makers. It’s a good way to spend time with friends or family, eat some of the best burgers in Murcia, and enjoy music and the festival atmosphere.

A night of tapas and tunes.

Facebook/ Los Intocables

Land, brings together lo-

Picnic fundraiser for MABS.

Image: Shutterstock/ DavideAngelini

San Javier hosts top burger event.

Lorca Town Hall

Facebook/

Zoco del Mar

Your

Is it time to heal the rift between the members of the British Royal Family? VOICE

THE BRITISH ROYAL FAMILY has long been the subject of fascination, not just in the UK but across the globe. Over the past few years, however, most of the attention has focused on the family’s division. High-profile disagreements, family tensions, and the departure of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle from senior royal duties have all played out on the world stage, leaving many to wonder whether reconciliation is possible. With this in mind, Euro Weekly News asked its readers on Facebook: Is it time to heal the rift between the members of the British Royal Family?

Responses revealed a wide range of opinions. A number of readers stressed that it is ultimately a private matter. Belinda Griffiths said, “The decision is theirs to make; it wouldn’t be a normal family if there wasn’t someone disrupting and adding fuel to the flames.” Jill Snoad commented, “It’s their business, not ours,” and Karen Poland echoed similar sentiments, stating that “they are humans and will have to sort their personal issues out themselves.” As Valerie Goodey put it, it’s best to “just keep your nose out of it.”

Others showed little interest in the question at all. Brain Rae exclaimed that he “could not care less!” Marion Isabel Atkins simply wrote, “Don’t care,” and Andy So -

lomons commented, “Who cares? Not me.” Carole Penman expressed that she prefers to focus her attention on her own loved ones, responding, “Not really bothered, more concerned for my own family.”

Some answers were more conditional. Doug Allen responded that the Royal Family should heal the rift “only if Harry and Meghan publicly apologise for all the hurtful things they have said.” Angela Edgley revealed her opinion that they should reconcile, but “it will be difficult because it’s all very public.” She went on to say, “If the rift is healed, it will be a miracle, but family is so important.”

At the same time, many readers went in an entirely different direction, suggesting that the debate misses the bigger question. Rather than focusing on personal disputes, readers like Justus Paiewonsky, George Petrie , and Raymond Jacobson felt that it is time to get rid of the monarchy altogether.

The poll reveals that there is no clear consensus on the Royal rift. Some readers hope for reconciliation, others remain indifferent or sceptical, and many feel the monarchy itself is outdated.

For now, the future of the Royal Family remains uncertain, but attention from the public and media is sure to continue.

Harry and Meghan have been absent from official royal duties since 2021.

Photo credit: Katie Chan / Wikimedia Commons

DHL detainment

A DHL DRIVER from Castrop-Rauxel has lost his job and been detained after a video surfaced of him attacking a couple. The driver, 21, began to punch a man, 54, and a woman, 42, after they had apparently complained about his parking style. In the video, the DHL driver claimed to be a boxer, which could land him a more serious charge.

Ta-ta, Toni

TONI, a one-year-old pygmy hippo, has said goodbye to her home, the Berlin Zoo, and been moved to a new institution in the French city of Mulhouse. There, the caretakers hope that she will mate with the other male hippo named Voobadee. Berlin residents were sad to see Toni go, as she had become quite the popular attraction at the zoo.

EURO PRESS

NETHERLANDS

Vexing Vincent

THE FAMED Van Gogh museum is warning of a closure risk in the midst of a dispute with the Dutch government.

The museum claims they are not able to carry out renovations without state support.

The buildings, which see 1.8 million visitors per year, and have had more than 50 years of heavy use, no longer meet safety standards.

Teeny tower

PORTUGAL ITALY FRANCE DENMARK BELGIUM

Portimão pyromania

AMIDST some of the worst wildfires Portugal has ever seen, a man has been arrested on suspicion of intentionally setting several forest fires in the Portimão area earlier in August. According to investigators, the man set the fires using matches in dry brush areas, using a motorcycle to quickly move areas. The man’s motive is yet unknown.

Portuguese powerups

US company Havi has chosen Lisbon as their strategic choice to invest €200 million for a global technology innovation centre. The Havi TechHub is poised to hire 70 more employees and open new facilities in the Portuguese capital in the coming months. The marketing consultant group has been operating in Portugal since 1993.

Para-cycling pump

RONSE, in East Flanders, was host to the Para-cycling World Championships on Thursday, August 28. The event brought together athletes from 54 countries, and it was the first time Belgium had hosted the event.

Belgium’s home team consisted of 11 riders, across handbike, tricycle and cycle classes.

Wolf war

A CONSERVATION row in Limburg has broken out after a pack of wolves killed a total of nine ponies in recent weeks. The attacks have prompted calls for a revision on the current wolf protection legislation. The pack is led by female wolf Noëlla, and has recently welcomed several new cubs.

Park plans

A NEW park spanning 30 hectares in Nordhavn, Copenhagen, is expected to begin construction in 2028.

The enormous park, called Nordør, will connect people and nature, and will be the first time in a generation that Copenhagen will create a large-scale urban park. The park is scheduled to open its doors by 2030.

Cocoa consolation

THE government of Denmark has stated that it will trash the taxes on coffee and chocolate in order to provide financial relief to households. The new measure will lower the price of a packet of coffee by approximately €0.66. While the move is set to benefit individuals, it will cost the Danish treasury an estimated €321 million.

NORWAY

Tokyo trip

FOR the first time in history, a Norwegian frigate has sailed into the Tokyo Harbour. The KNM Roald Amundsen, part of a larger Norwegian expedition involving four vessels, voyaged to Japan after an equally significant four-month expedition through the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen the NATO presence in Asia.

Aviation artifice

THE Civil Aviation Authority Norway has found that Polish airline SprintAir has violated local labour laws, as well as health, safety, and environmental regulations. The Authority found that the pilots were working partly as independent contractors, leaving it unclear whether they were temporarily or permanently employed.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Caffeine climb

A NEW doctoral study from the University of Jyväskylä has shown that energy drink consumption is now common among Finnish children as young as 11. Between 2014 and 2022, there was a significant rise in energy drink consumption, especially among 15-year-old girls, whose consumption increased sixfold during that period.

Pool pooper

THE city of Oulu has filed a criminal complaint after human excrement was found in the Linnanmaa swimming pool six separate times since the beginning of July. There is strong suspicion that the defecation was intentional, not accidental. Officials have amped up security around the swimming pool in order to identify the culprit.

Unauthorised use

DURING a surprise inspection of 60 Swedish schools, it was found that in 22 of them, students were using school tablets and computers to play games or watch movies during class time. Surprisingly, students favoured the devices provided to them by the school rather than their mobile phones, especially while doing individual work.

Populated prisons

ACCORDING to new statistics from the Crime Prevention Council, Sweden’s prison population has nearly doubled over the past 10 years. In the past year, 11,812 people began serving a sentence in Sweden, the highest number since 1996. Because of this, Sweden is facing an ongoing prison overcrowding conundrum.

A RETIRED metalworker, Jean-Claude Fassler, 77, and his grandson, Kilian Antenat, 22, have spent the last eight years making a 1/10 scale model replica of the Eiffel Tower in their garden. The tower, made in its original red colour, is still considerable in size - around 30 metres high - and is based on plans from Eiffel’s original drawings.

Returning remains

THE French government has returned three skulls to Madagascar, including one of a decapitated king. The skull belonged to King Ampanjaka Toera, who along with the Sakalava ethnic group, was killed by French troops during their colonial conquest of Madagascar 128 years ago. The skulls will receive a proper burial on the island.

Canal catastrophe

GERMANY IRELAND

TOURISTS in Venice found themselves making a splash when their gondola capsized and they ended up in the waters of a canal.

Reports suggest the boat tipped over from sudden movements by the passengers. With the help of bystanders, they were able to get out of the water unharmed by clinging to grates and boats.

Rainbow row

AN Italian councillor in Padua has been the target of controversy after she used rainbow ribbons to announce the birth of her son. Some say the choice to use these rather than traditional blue ones was an allusion to Pride. The councillor had previously said the ribbons represented the beauty of all colours rather than only pink or blue.

Harrowing hornets

A NEST of highly invasive Asian hornets was found in Cork city, following the amped up efforts by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The hornet is a particular point of concern for environmentalists, as they are the main predator for honeybees and can decimate populations of bees and other essential pollinators.

School strikes

MORE than 2,600 school secretaries and caretakers have gone on strike after three hours of exploratory talks have failed to yield an agreement. The workers claim they are being denied access to public sector pensions and other entitlements. The union, Fórsa, is looking for a commitment that access to pensions will be worked on.

Photo Credit: Ömer Gülen via Pexels

Tourism boom

SPAIN’S tourism industry has smashed records this summer, welcoming 55.5 million international visitors by July and hitting €76 billion in total spending - the highest ever. That’s a 7 per cent increase over last year, with each visitor spending about €100 more on average, or €210 per day. July alone saw over 11 million arrivals, making it the busiest month on record and the second year running that Spain surpassed 50 million visitors by midsummer.

The UK, Germany, and France remain the top tourist sources, but 2025’s standout is Portugal, with a 13.6 per cent surge in arrivals - the fastest of any market. This reflects a rise in shorter, spontaneous cross-border trips, extending tourism beyond the peak season.

British tourists still lead in spending (17.6 per cent), followed by Germany (11.7 per cent) and France (8.1 per cent). Accommodation accounts for 20.5 per cent of budgets, with hotels alone capturing 63.4 per cent - underlining their central role in Spain’s tourism success. Catalonia leads for the year with 11.6 million visitors, followed by the Canary Islands (9.1 million) and the Balearics (9 million). In July, the Balearics edged ahead, drawing 23.3 per cent of all tourists, while Andalusia rose 5.5 per cent thanks to its beaches and historic cities.

Despite dips from Germany, France, Switzerland, and Belgium, the overall trend is clear: Spain’s tourism machine is not just strong - it’s accelerating.

New climate pact

SPANISH Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a new climate pact aimed at boosting Spain’s resilience to natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and storms. Revealed in early September, the plan includes creating a State Agency for Civil Protection and Emergencies and ensuring year-round firefighting and emergency staffing.

The move follows a summer of devastating wildfires and torrential rains caused by the ‘dana’ weather system. Sánchez presented the pact as a national effort to unite all levels of government in tackling climate risks more effectively.

Central to the proposal is the new agency, which would coordinate disaster response, manage resources, and improve cooperation between national, regional, and local authorities. It would oversee prevention, emergency action, and recovery.

A major shift is the commitment to maintain firefighting teams year-round, ending the seasonal model that has left regions exposed outside summer months. The pact also includes financial support for mu-

nicipalities, with long-term funding mechanisms to speed up aid.

While full funding details are pending, the pact signals a move toward longterm climate preparedness over crisis response.

Spain in demand - hearts set on Barcelona.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Property auction

ANDALUCIA will launch its sixth major auction this September, selling more than 30 public assets deemed ‘underutilised or costly to maintain’, El Correo Web reports. Since 2019, auctions and direct sales have raised €138m, including Malaga’s Post Office and Granada’s Bank of Spain.

Fujitsu and Andalucia

FUJITSU, tied to the UK Post Office Horizon scandal, has secured a contract to develop AI software for Andalucia’s healthcare system. Critics warn of risks in entrusting sensitive medical data to the firm, which was heavily criticised for past failures.

Hospitality hit

UK Hospitality says restaurants, pubs, bars and hotels have lost 89,000 jobs since October - 53 per cent of national losses. Chair Kate Nicholls called the figures ‘staggering’ and warned closures could match Covid levels unless taxes and business rates are urgently cut.

TikTok UK revenue

TIKTOK’S UK revenues jumped 38 per cent in 2024 to $64 billion, filings show, as TikTok Shop became the nation’s fourth biggest beauty retailer. With 30m UK users, 1.5m businesses and 3,000 staff, the app’s future remains under political scrutiny.

Gas export

MOROCCO became Spain’s biggest gas client in June 2025, buying 858 GWh35.5 per cent of exports. France followed with 14.6 per cent. Despite exports falling 40 per cent year-onyear, analysts say Morocco’s growing share signals closer Madrid-Rabat energy ties amid shifting global markets.

STAT OF WEEK

The total value of Spanish startups has exceeded billion euros for the first time, doubling its size since 2020.

Spain’s sustainable development

SPAIN has unveiled a new system of international cooperation, with its first Partnership for Sustainable Development signed with Uruguay and further agreements underway with Egypt and Panama, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on August 20. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the framework, introduced under Spain’s Law on Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Global Solidarity, was designed to be ‘more effective’ in tackling global challenges. He described the partnerships as a ‘shared, multidimensional and non-linear process’, focusing on inclusive and innovative policies.

The first deal was formalised on July 22, 2025, during Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s official visit to Montevideo. Covering 2025–2029, the Spain–Uruguay agreement strengthens bilateral ties with priorities in security, cultural exchanges, and joint policies for equality,

employment, and sustainable production. According to the Ministry, the model also incorporates feminist, multilateral, and rights-based approaches, aiming to position Spain as a key player in shaping regional and global public goods. Work is progressing on similar partnerships with Egypt and Panama, which will expand cooperation

BII investment

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT (BII), the UK’s development finance arm, has invested ₹170 crore (€18.7m) in Altum Credo Home Finance, a Pune-based affordable housing lender. The deal, announced on August 25 aims to expand credit access for low-income households in India.

Founded in 2016, Altum Credo offers long-tenure home loans to first-time buyers with informal incomes. The fresh capital will fund expansion across southern and western India, while also improving technology and services like sanitation and electricity.

“We greatly value the continued support and confidence shown by British International Investment,” said CEO Vikrant Bhagwat (Business Standard). BII’s Shilpa Kumar said the partnership will help “low-income households, especially women, to access safer, more secure homes”

Rolser trolleys

SPANISH shopping trolley brand Rolser, founded in 1966, now sells in more than 60 countries, with 63 per cent of Spanish homes owning one, Monocle reports. Co-CEO Vicent Server said, “We have very special ties to this land... we threw our support behind the people of this area and tried to foster an industry that wasn’t tourism.”

This summer, Rolser launched a campaign to celebrate walking and conscious lifestyles. Once seen as old-fashioned, are trolleys now stylish?

beyond traditional aid to include civil society, universities, the private sector, and public institutions.

The Foreign Ministry said the initiative represents a shift in Spain’s foreign policy, aligning national efforts with regional and global priorities such as climate change, democracy, human rights, and care systems.

(Business Standard).

Altum Credo has served more than 15,000 customers and now has over $80 million (€73.5m) in total funding, reflecting strong investor interest in India’s housing finance industry.

Whistleblower authority

SPAIN launched its new Independent Whistleblower Protection Authority (AIPI) on September 1, following the publication of Ministerial Order PJC/908/2025. Part of Law 2/2023, which transposes the EU Whistleblower Directive, the AIPI oversees reporting channels, protecting whistleblowers, and sanctioning breaches. Businesses must appoint reporting officers and notify the Authority by November 1 or risk sanctions. Led by Manuel Villoria, with an advisory panel of legal experts, the body marks Spain’s first authority of its kind. But will it strengthen trust, or simply add red tape for companies?

BBVA has set out plans to grow its business in every market between 2025 and 2028, aiming for around €48 billion in profit, the bank announced on August 25. In Spain, lending is forecast to rise 5 per cent annually. Net interest income is forecast to rise, while revenues should see low to mid single-digit growth. BBVA also targets an efficiency ratio of 30-33 per cent and a 4 per cent return on risk-weighted assets.

LONDON-based Haylo Labs has acquired Plymouth’s Plessey Semiconductors, the UK specialist in embedded micro LED display technology, Semiconductor Today reports. Haylo Labs plans to invest over £100m in the UK over the next five years to boost production capabilities and expand the workforce.

David Hayes, Haylo Labs’ CEO and co founder, says, “Plessey has built the world’s most advanced micro LED platforms... with technology and talent that surpasses rivals anywhere globally.”

This acquisition could mark a turning point for UK tech.

Taqa buys GS Inima

ABU DHABI’S Taqa will acquire Madrid-based GS Inima, a leading desalination and water treatment firm, for $1.2 billion (€1.025bn), La Vanguardia reports.

The deal, agreed with South Korea’s GS Engineering & Construction, is expected to close in 2026 pending approvals.

GS Inima runs around 50 projects in 10 countries and last year posted €389 million in revenue and €106 million EBITDA. The acquisition strengthens Taqa’s global water portfolio, boosting desalination, wastewater, and industrial treatment capacity.

SPAIN’S government has suspended a €103 million cybersecurity contract awarded to MasOrange after a legal challenge from Telefónica, Economía Digital reports. The dispute centres on Lot 3 of the CORA III project, covering interconnection of state data centres and digital security. Telefónica argues the tender process lacked transparency and fairness.

With public cybersecurity at stake, should mega-contracts like this be spread more widely for resilience?

Spain-Uruguay agreement strengthens bilateral ties.

Pune city, India.

Euro

EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.86

EUR/USD: Up from $1.14 to $1.16

THE euro rose early in August thanks to the single currency’s strong negative correlation with a falling US dollar. However, weak economic data from Germany and the wider Eurozone stifled EUR’s potential as the month progressed. Russia-Ukraine news then infused EUR with volatility towards the end of the month amid a flurry of diplomatic activity focused on brokering a peace agreement. Overall the tone was cautiously optimistic, which lent EUR some support. Looking forward, the European Central Bank’s (ECB) policy decision could lift the euro, if the bank strikes a hawkish tone. However, political uncertainty in France and Russia-Ukraine news could drive volatility.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.15

GBP/USD: Up from $1.32 to $1.34

Currency outlook: US dollar slides as Fed prepares to cut interest rates, pound firms amid hawkish split at the BoE

The pound strengthened over the past month, with the Bank of England’s (BoE) surprisingly hawkish split decision providing the initial boost. Stronger-than-expected UK GDP and jobs data, along with another rise in inflation, further supported Sterling by reinforcing expectations that the BoE will take a slower approach to lowering interest rates over the coming months. At the end of August, the pound trimmed its gains. GBP investors grew increasingly anxious that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will rai-

se taxes again in her autumn budget, which could drag on economic growth. The BoE will meet to set policy again in mid-September. If the bank signals that it is no rush to cut rates again, the pound could gain ground.

US dollar

USD/GBP: Down from £0.75 to £0.74

USD/EUR: Down from €0.87 to €0.85

The US dollar plunged at the start of August after a staggeringly weak non-farm payrolls report

increased the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September. US President Donald Trump also intensified his attacks on the Fed, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for a jumbo half-point rate cut, with this political interference weighing heavily on USD. Some positive US data and a risk-off mood helped the dollar claw back some of these losses. However, Fed Chair Powell indicated in a speech that the bank was gearing up for a rate cut, which undermined USD

once again, despite an uptick in inflation in July. The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates at its meeting in September, which could pile pressure on the US dollar. If the bank also signals that further cuts are likely, USD could slump. Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

The euro rose in early August, but progress was somewhat stifled.

It’s good to be back

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

SO much has happened during my brief sojourn I feel that it will really take some time to actually catch up. Thank you so much for all your supportive mail, they truly warmed the ol’ boy’s heart. I was sorry to hear of the somewhat early passing of Ozzie Osbourne. Although his music was not a leading contender of this ol’ boy’s hit library I often admired his capabilities as an artiste and celebrity entertainer over the years. RIP Ozzie.

Although this ol’ boy has also enjoyed a share of so-called ‘stardom’ in the past, it never stops to amaze me how far some egotistical celebrities are prepared to go to convince the public they are so utterly special. Mariah Carey once took the bubble when she insisted that the promotors of a tour supplied someone to ‘handle her chewing gum’! Apparently, this young lady needed someone to pick it up and bin it after

she had spat it out.

Of course, yours truly has also had a few antics in the past. One which I will never actually forget was my first trip to the USA as a budding ‘chart topper’. On the way to Nashville to appear at the Grand Old Opry, I laid over in NY for a couple of days to do a bit of tele. Also there at the same time was Tom Jones. I had known Tom since the beginning of his career, when his manager Gordon Mills, who also managed me, was paying him 10 bob a week and changed his name from Woodward to Jones, to coincide with the popular movie playing worldwide at the time.

Tom was appearing at the Copacabana and also having a mad affair with the beautiful Mary Wilson of the Supremes, who were appearing for a week in the Blue Room of the prestigious Waldorf Astoria.

After seeing Tom at the ‘Copa’ on my first night I was subsequently invited to join him and Mary for a club crawl around the night spots of New York. To be honest I didn’t really enjoy it too much because they were recognised just about everywhere we

went and basically mobbed at every turn. My ‘Little Arrows’ was still rising up the charts and I certainly hadn’t reached the heights of my two companions. Nevertheless it was an interesting night and rounded off by Mary eagerly inviting me and Tom to have a table at the Waldorf the next evening. We would be able to see the show and after be joined as a foursome by herself and Diana, who she insisted, in her broad American accent, would truly ‘love me with my Beatle haircut and English accent’!

Consequently, at the end of our evening the ol’ boy made tracks for the hotel with a spinning head and a date for the following night with Diana Ross of the Supremes - who was gonna love me! Not a bad start to the ol’ boy’s USA visit. Unfortunately, later the next afternoon, still highly hungover, I succumbed to a deep slumber in a 24-hour cinema and missed the whole shebang. Ah well, onward and sideways. Good to be back.

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.

Spain’s

buoyant

economy

Spain remains the leader in economic growth.

ON Saturday, August 23, CNBC published an article on Spain, stating that its economy was growing at a pace much faster than its European neighbours, fuelled by tourism, foreign investment, and immigration.

Spain’s economy has also been bolstered by the European Union’s Next Generation EU funds, which have made €163 billion available to Spain, through grants and loans. The country is the second biggest beneficiary of this pandemic recovery assistance, following Italy.

Since investing in green energy in the 2000s, Spain has benefited from 40 per cent lower energy costs and experienced less impact from the European energy crisis that followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Foreign direct investment in Spain ranks fourth as the most attractive destination in the EU for investors. China alone has announced that it will invest up to €11 billion in Spain in 2025, as it prepares for a record 33 new projects in the country. Yet, the US remains the largest investor in Spain. The southern European country remains the leader in growth in the eurozone, with its annual gross domestic product forecasted to rise by 2.5 per cent this year. The economies of France, Germany, and Italy are forecast to expand by 0.6 per cent, 0 per cent, and 0.7 per cent, respectively.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Registering your Spanish property for tourist use? New voting requirements explained.

by Patricia Ruiz

IF you own a property in Spain and are considering registering it for tourist rental, it is important to be aware of a key legal update affecting the process. Under current legislation, registering a home in the Tourism Registry now requires prior approval from the community of property owners (comunidad de propietarios), and not just any approval - a qualified majority vote is needed.

What is a qualified majority?

As set out in Article 17.12 of the Spanish Horizontal Property Law (Ley de Propiedad Horizontal), a qualified majority means:

• Three-fifths (3/5) of all property owners, and

• Three-fifths (3/5) of the total participation quotas in the building.

Importantly, this does not refer to 3/5 of the owners present at a meeting. Instead, it refers to a double majority of the entire ownership, regardless of whether all owners at-

tend the meeting or not.

So for the decision to pass, you must obtain the agreement of:

• At least 60 per cent of all the owners in the building

• Those owners must collectively hold at least 60 per cent of the ownership shares.

The 30-Day Rule: How absentee votes count

After the vote is taken during a community meeting, Spanish law

allows 30 calendar days for any absent owners to express their position.

According to Article 17.8, if a properly notified owner does not respond within that time, their silence is legally interpreted as a vote in favour of the agreement reached by the majority.

This rule is important because it means the votes of absent owners will reinforce the decision taken at the meeting - whether it is to approve or reject the proposal.

However, if an owner disagrees with the result, they must notify the community secretary within 30 days (using a method that provides proof of receipt) to formally register their opposition.

What about increasing community fees for tourist rentals?

The same qualified majority is also required when the community wishes to adopt a resolution to increase the community fees by up to 20 per cent for those owners who rent out

www.mylawyerinspain.com

their property for tourist purposes.

For example, if a proposal is made to raise the fees for tourist rentals and it is rejected by the majority, then the votes of those not present at the meeting will also count as supporting the rejection - unless they formally object within 30 days.

This legal structure is designed to ensure the stability of agreements and prevent decisions from being overturned by inaction.

Need help navigating property laws in Spain?

At My Lawyer in Spain , we regularly assist property owners with legal advice related to tourist rentals, voting procedures, and community agreements.

If you are unsure how to register your property with the Tourism Registry, or if these changes affect your property, get in touch with our expert team.

EWN in crime novel

CHRISTINE SMITH is a much respected writer of crime fiction who in September will be publishing her third novel entitled Deadlier than the Male. She moved to Antas in Almeria in 2018 although she has lived in Spain since 2008 and her first published book recounted her decision to move from the UK (following a family tragedy) and the story of how she came to settle here.

A great lover of writing, she has created an intriguing series of murder mysteries featuring Morgan a retired CID officer retired to Spain and his friend Morales, an inspector in the Spanish police force. In this, the third Morgan/Morales story, Morgan’s wife, Sarah, an interpreter plays an important part as whilst browsing through Euro Weekly News in Torremolinos, she spots a story about the death of a man which is eerily similar to a death that occurs at the beginning of the book.

Intrigued, she speaks to the reporter who penned the story

and the investigation carries on from there, leading to a surprising, yet exciting discovery where good does triumph in a cracking story. Each of the three novels is entitled after a quote from a famous writer and in this case, ‘The female of the species is deadlier than the male’ is taken from a poem by Rudyard Kipling, although many will remember the hit song with a similar title by the band Space which was released in 1996.

Although it may appear to be a costly operation to self-pu blish, in fact it is a relatively easy and inexpensive operation which Christine is happy to un dertake.

“I don’t expect to make a lot of mo ney from the novels, but it is something that I enjoy and I’m pleased to say my work is

popular locally and through sales at Amazon and other sites.”

The first two books have now been translated to Spanish and the Antas Council has purchased copies for the local library whilst English versions are also available at bookshops in Antas and Vera.

To find out more about Christine’s work visit https://www.

Spain cash rule

SHOPS in Spain cannot refuse cash - and those ‘card only’ signs at the till risk hefty fines.

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has reminded businesses that cash is legal tender and must be accepted unless very specific limits apply.

The law is clear: dayto-day purchases must remain cash-friendly. Businesses can only refuse in narrow cases: transactions over €1,000 when one party is a business, payments made with more than 50 coins, or when a very large note can’t reasonably be changed. Anything else - including blanket ‘no cash accepted’ policies - breaches the rules.

Penalties range from €150 to €10,000, but serious cases can trigger fines of up to €100,000. Inspectors look harshly at shops that target vul -

nerable customers, act repeatedly, or cause disruption by turning away cash.

For consumers, the advice is simple: if a refusal doesn’t fall under the legal exceptions, you can request the official complaints form (Hoja de Reclamaciones) and file it with your regional consumer authority. Documenting the incident and signs helps back up the case.

Cash still counts.

Author Christine Smith.

Credit: Christine Smith

Madrid metro lifts

MADRID is making its underground more accessible with a major upgrade that will allow passengers to travel directly from street to platform without climbing stairs. The regional government has approved the installation of 15 new lifts across six key stations as part of the Community of Madrid’s Accessibility and Inclusion Plan 2021–2028. The €19 million project, which began in March, is designed to ease journeys for wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs, travellers with luggage, and daily commuters.

Most stations will receive two lifts, with Ciudad Lineal set for three and Carabanchel four, partly to serve the nearby Gómez Ulla Central

Defence Hospital. Each lift will connect directly to the platforms through new galleries equipped with ticket barriers, ensuring access remains controlled and secure. Alongside these vertical upgrades, an additional €3.5 million will fund new escalators at Prosperidad, Estrella and San Blas, easing congestion and modernising busy access points. The idea is to make step-free travel the norm rather than an exception. Clearer signage and street-facing lifts will prevent passengers from wasting time searching for hidden service entrances. The improvements are expected to reduce bottlenecks, cut minutes from journeys and create smoother flows.

New school dates

SPAIN has now confirmed its 2025/26 school calen dar, giving families across all autonomous commu nities the key dates they need to plan ahead. While the national framework is consistent - with lessons beginning in early Septem ber and finishing mid-tolate June - each region sets its own precise return days, Christmas breaks and Easter holidays.

On a national level, there are shared school closures for major holi days including October 12 (Fiesta Nacional), Decem ber 6 (Constitution Day), December 8 (Immaculate Conception) and May 1 (Labour Day). Beyond these, each community has its own calendar with local holidays and saints’ days. Christmas usually falls from late December into early January, while Easter varies between late March and early April, though Valencia stretches its Easter

Classes restart in early September.

dents back on September 8, while the Community of Madrid staggers returns between September 8-9. Galicia begins on September 10, Andalucia around September 10-15, and Murcia, Navarra and La Rioja slightly later on September 11-12.

Families can maximise travel opportunities by

in Valencia, the extended Pascua (April 2-13) offers a rare chance for longer trips without extra leave. Regional celebrations such as Catalonia’s La Diada on September 11, Madrid’s Día de la Comunidad on May 2, or Andalucia’s February 28 create extra long weekends when combined with school closures.

Step-free boost for Madrid Metro.

Immigration boost

CHRISTINE LAGARDE, President of the European Central Bank, has praised Spain for the positive role immigration has played in strengthening its economy. Her remarks align with recent findings from the Bank of Spain, which has quantified immigration’s contribution to growth, productivity and national wealth.

Spain has experienced a notable rise in its immigrant population, particularly within the labour market. Foreign workers have filled essential roles across agriculture, construction, domestic services and healthcare, sectors that might otherwise face shortages due to demographic pressures such as an ageing population and low birth rates.

According to the Bank of Spain, immigration has counterbalanced the decline in the working-age population, expanding the labour force while also boosting demand for goods and ser-

vices. This dual effect has supported gross domestic product growth and sustained economic activity in sectors such as retail, housing and education.

Public finances have also benefited. Studies indicate that immigrants contribute more in taxes and social security payments than they receive in benefits, particularly younger workers whose contributions support

Spain’s strained pension system. In addition, many immigrants have created small and medium-sized enterprises, generating employment and diversifying the economy.

Challenges remain, particularly in integration, housing access and pressure on public services. Nonetheless, the evidence points to immigration being a net positive for Spain’s economy.

Barcelona bus upgrade

BARCELONA has added just 400 metres of new bus-priority lane along Avinguda Diagonal, but the effect could be bigger than it looks. The tweak, gives buses from the B-23 a smoother run into the city by stitching together fragmented priority stretches. The new section runs between Carrer d’Albert Bastardas and Carrer de Gregorio Marañón, plugging directly into the existing corridor from Adolf Florensa all the way to Plaça de la Reina Maria Cristina. The goal is straightforward: cut bottlenecks, keep timetables steady and make everyday commuting calmer for thousands of riders.

The design isn’t random. From the B-23 to Albert Bastardas, the bus lane sits on the left. Between Albert Bastardas and Gregorio Ma-

rañón, it shifts to the right to give space for safer merges as cars peel off. A short 50-metre ‘weave zone’ follows, letting drivers filter to the lateral without blocking buses.

From Adolf Florensa onwards, the priority lane reappears on the right - the layout that’s been in place since 2012 - and continues through to Reina Maria Cristina. For buses, this means straighter flows; for drivers, clearer markings reduce conflict at the worst choke points.

Passengers should feel the difference at stops and junctions, where micro-delays normally pile up. Priority lanes are designed to iron out those brakes and scrambles, improving punctuality and reducing bunching at peak hours.

Spain rental squeeze

SPAIN’S coastal provinces are seeing a surge in foreign tenants, reshaping rental markets and driving up prices. New figures show that overseas renters account for more than one in five rental searches in some regions.

The Balearic Islands lead with around 29 per cent, followed by Alicante (27 per cent), Malaga (26 per cent) and Santa Cruz de Tenerife (22 per cent). Other coastal provinces, including Las Palmas, Girona and Almeria, also register strong international demand.

The mix of nationalities varies by location. Germans dominate searches in the Balearics and Tenerife, while Brits, Italians and Dutch renters make up significant shares in Alicante and Malaga. Inland, Portuguese renters lead in border provinces like Badajoz and Huelva, Andorrans focus on Lleida, and Brazilians are the top overseas searchers in Valladolid. More affordable interiors such as Guadalajara, Toledo and Segovia are increasingly attracting Latin American tenants.

Spain’s coastal hotspots are pushing demand higher.

man and French tenants. Barcelona follows at 15 per cent, with French, Italian and American renters prominent. Madrid and Sevilla also draw international attention, with French, Italian and US nationals leading the way.

Big cities are also part of the trend. Valencia sees about 17 per cent of demand from abroad, with strong interest from US, Ger-

For locals, the pressure is clear: limited supply and rising prices. Overseas tenants often move quickly, pass affordability checks with ease and bid higher, pushing rents upward. Landlords welcome the year-round stability, but town halls are debating policies to protect affordable housing.

Diagonal bus lane extension. Credit Alexey Pevnev, Shutterstock

Spain has experienced a significant rise in its immigrant population.

The quiet art of glowing

(Without hitting a high C)

Why stepping out of the spotlight might be the brightest move of all

FROM COAST TO COAST

VOICES come in all kinds - operatic, internal, and the one that shows up mid-crisis to ask, ‘Whose idea was this, anyway?’

I’ve had them all: high notes, mid-tones, mysterious in-betweens, and those low notes that sound like they’re still looking for their passport. And truth be told, I’ve never been a fan of low tones in classical singers - unless, of course, they come from proper baritones aged in oak barrels, or basses who could serenade a volcano into calming down. Otherwise, some snores have more charisma.

Most low notes just vanish. Unless they’re sung with intention, they get lost - They vanish - like socks in the dryer or your memory the moment someone says ‘quick, say something funny!’

This all came to me after remembering the face of a classical singer who got caught in a scandal a while back. Let’s just say the drama wasn’t all on stage. I won’t name names, but I never liked his low notes anyway. They always felt like they were trying to be deep but came off sleepy. Give me Carreras’ velvety mids, Domingo’s golden glide, or Pavarotti’s high-altitude fireworks any day. Together, the Three Tenors were a feast - nothing like them since.

But this isn’t just about opera. Curtains up, panic on.

Once upon a time, I was a performer. Singer. Piano player. A little touring, a lot of panic. I loved music - but I hated performing live. Stage fright? I had enough to share. My heart would pound, my brain would scatter, and I’d silently pray for a power outage.

One day, I just tiptoed out of it all. No dramatic farewell, no final aria - just me, realising that peace and quiet had better acoustics for my soul.

Glow gently I’ve learned that not everyone wants to be ‘at the top’. And that’s fine. The spotlight is overrated, hot, and bad for your pores.

These days, I believe in a softer shine.

You don’t have to dazzle anyone. You just have to glow enough to guide your next step - and maybe light the way for someone else too.

If you’re on a low note today…

Don’t worry. Low notes can be grounding. They carry depth, stillness, honesty. You’re not broken. You’re just in your minor key moment.

You don’t need to shine for the world.

You just need to stay lit from within - quiet, steady, and enough to keep going.

And let’s be honest… we’re not hitting high Cs before breakfast anymore. Let the Three Tenors handle that.

aif2018@hotmail.com

Madrid Scraps Avlo

Renfe has not disclosed whether this shift is permanent or part of a broader strategic adjustment.

RENFE has announced that, starting September 8, its low-cost Avlo trains between Madrid, Zaragoza, and Barcelona will be withdrawn and replaced by standard AVE high-speed services. The decision ends the purple-branded Avlo service on one of Spain’s busiest rail corridors, though Renfe assures passengers that prices, frequencies, and schedules will remain competitive and unchanged.

Passengers who purchased Avlo tickets for journeys after September 7 will be automatically transferred to equivalent AVE trains at no extra cost, with refunds provided for optional services such as seat reservations or luggage. Renfe argues that the AVE can offer similar affordability while streamlining operations along the route, addressing growing competition from private high-speed operators like Ouigo and Iryo, which have attracted customers through aggressive pricing strategies.

The move reflects Renfe’s strategy to consolidate its offerings under the AVE brand, presenting the service as both premium and cost-competitive. While the company has not confirmed whether this change is permanent, the withdrawal of Avlo on the Madrid–Barcelona line does not affect low-cost services on other routes, including Madrid–Valencia and Madrid–Alicante.

Renfe emphasises that the transition will be seamless, with no reduction in capacity or travel options. By consolidating the service under a single brand, the company aims to strengthen its position in Spain’s liberalised rail sector, balancing operational efficiency with affordability. Passengers are advised to check updated itineraries as all future trips on the affected corridor will be marketed and ticketed as AVE, maintaining the accessibility and reliability of Spain’s most heavily used high-speed line.

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Rental boom

MALAGA PROVINCE is now Spain’s third most attractive destination for foreign renters, following the Balearic Islands and Alicante, according to a new Idealista report. As of August 28, 25.7 per cent of rental listing visits in the province came from abroad, mainly from British, German, and Dutch nationals. Malaga’s appeal lies in its climate, food, air connectivity, and quality of life, attracting tourists, retirees, and remote workers alike. Rental options range from city apartments to luxury villas, but prices are high- averaging €16.7 per square metre in July. That’s €1,336 for an 80m² flat, with Marbella topping the list at €20/m². These rising costs pose challenges for local residents.

Axarquia

Giant cake for tourists

TORRE DEL MAR celebrated its annual Día del Turista (Tourist Day) with a spectacular display of sweetness as thousands queued along the seafront for a slice of giant cake. Created by chef Roberto Soler, this year’s 8.5-metre-long cake served around 4,000 slices and featured a “sport and solidarity” theme, with decorations shaped like rackets, balls, and chess pieces. The cake included 35 metres of sponge soaked in spiced syrup, peach jam, and 350 kilos of vegetable cream. By 8.00pm, queues stretched along the promenade, filled with Spanish holidaymakers and locals alike. Deputy mayor Jesús Pérez Atencia called the event a way to thank visitors and share local traditions.

Mallorca

Butterfly Sanctuary

MALLORCA has become a key refuge for one of Europe’s rarest butterflies, the Balearic skipper (Gegenes pumilio), now listed as endangered in Spain. Once common on the island, this migratory species from Africa is now rarely seen, with recent sightings in Raixa, Sóller, and Es Comú de Muro. Due to its similarity to the black sageta (Gegenes nostradamus), experts are analysing specimens for confirmation. According to researcher Pau Colom of Imedea UIB-CSIC, butterflies like the Balearic skipper are crucial bioindicators of climate change. Monitoring efforts span 21 routes across the Balearics, helping track the species’ survival in low-altitude habitats such as farmland, marshes, and peri-urban areas.

Costa Blanca South History comes to life

AT 10am on Monday, September 1, Santa Pola’s Levante Beach became the stage for the dramatic Moorish Assault, a highlight of the town’s festival in honour of the Virgin of Loreto. Hundreds watched as Moorish groups arrived with vivid costumes, musket fire, and theatrical flair, recreating scenes from historic conquests. Organised by the Moors and Christians Festive-Cultural Association with Town Hall support, the event is a cultural favourite in the festival running from August 31 to September 8. The day continued with parades, the Moorish Embassy performance, and the Sostracà battle, complete with pyrotechnics. Evening celebrations kept the town alive, showcasing Santa Pola’s rich tradition and community spirit.

Almeria Foreigner frenzy

WITH its stunning beaches, charming towns, and natural beauty, Almeria remains a top destination for visitors and those looking to settle. A recent report by rental platform Idealista confirms its popularity among foreigners, ranking it among the top Spanish provinces for rental demand. Almeria accounted for 15.8 per cent of foreign housing demand, competing with hotspots like Las Palmas and Girona. Germans and Britons lead the rentals at 13 per cent and 12 per cent, followed by the French at 9 per cent. Popular areas include coastal towns like Garrucha, Mojacar, and Vera. For those familiar with Almeria, its appeal is clear- mild weather, crystal-clear waters, and rich wildlife make it a coastal gem for international visitors.

Costa Blanca North

Bollywood to Buñol

THE 78th edition of La Tomatina, held on 27 August, saw a surge in Indian visitors after Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra featured in the film Heads of State, which opens with a six-minute scene recreating the iconic tomato fight. Over 1,000 people from India travelled to Buñol to join the messy festivities, highlighting Chopra’s international influence. The actress, known for her Bollywood and Hollywood roles, has a global fanbase and even collaborated with Pitbull on the hit Exotic. La Tomatina continues to attract worldwide attention, drawing visitors from China, Australia, the UK, and more, all descending on the small Spanish town of 10,000 for the famous tomato-throwing celebration.

INTERVIEW

Ernst Kraft: creating in Spain

DUTCH visual artist Ernst Kraft, at just 19 set off on a journey that would shape his life. “It wasn’t a holiday, it was indefinite travel. When you are that young, it leaves a deep mark. That trip became a before-and-after moment,” he said to Euro Weekly News.

During his time abroad, he witnessed some of Latin America’s most turbulent years: Pinochet’s coup in Chile, military kidnappings in Argentina, and dictatorships in Brazil and Paraguay. “Coming from the Netherlands, a rather dull democracy, I suddenly found myself in a society that was completely politicised, with forced disappearances and dictatorships.”

When he returned to the Netherlands he couldn’t explain everything that he had lived through. It was too much. “All I could say was that it had been an extraordinary journey. When I connected with a painter friend and worked in his studio, I realised I had found my place.”

Kraft also values the physicality of his creative process. “Especially with large canvases, you bend, you stretch – it’s physical work. I never paint sitting down. Preparing the canvas is also a time to think, to focus.”

After some years with his own studio in Amsterdam, he began questioning whether he wanted to spend the rest of his life there. “I thought about going back

to South America, but most South American artists I knew wanted to come to Europe. So I thought about Spain. I already spoke the language, it was the perfect marriage. I started in Malaga about 32 years ago, and three years ago I moved to Finestrat, near Alicante.”

Born in 1952 in Bloemendaal and known for his abstract and gestural style, his work extends beyond canvas to include installations and sculptures in public spaces across several countries.

The Great Brain Robbery

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Madrid declares war on screens (sort of)

IN a bold bid to save young minds from pixelated peril, Madrid’s regional government is capping screen time in primary schools at just TWO hours a week. That’s less than a decent Netflix binge - and no homework involving screens either. How shocking!

Starting this month, around 500,000 pupils across 2,000 state schools in and around the capital will be hauled away from their beloved tablets and reacquainted with ancient relics previously known as ‘books’, ‘pens’ and - ‘Brace! Brace!’ if you’re reading this on a plane - ‘dictation’.

“It’s about getting back to the essence of education,” said a government spokesperson, presumably while clutching her pearls, not to mention a quill and parchment.

Swedish SuperMum

“IF I birthed six kids, I’m gonna get six kids out,” said Swedish Supermum. In 2019, Emma Schols made headlines around the world after achieving the unthinkable. Alone at home in Edsbyn, Sweden, she dragged all six of her children from a raging house fire, suffering burns to 93 per cent of her body. Six years on, she lives in a rebuilt home and says she carries her scars with pride.

It was the early hours of September 3, 2019 when Emma woke to the smell of smoke. Downstairs, the television room was already ablaze. “There was no time to think,” she later wrote in her memoir ‘I Carry My Scars with Pride: The Fire in Edsbyn and Life After’. Barefoot and unprotected, she shielded her children as flames tore into her back. “When the flames hit me, it was as

if my whole back was on fire. But I kept going.”

Four of her children were trapped upstairs. She fought her way through the blaze, pushed them to safety, then realised baby Mollie was still inside. “It was such thick smoke and so hard to breathe, but I suddenly got such enormous force and managed to lift her up,” she told Goalcast. Emma spent weeks on a ventilator and underwent more than 20 surgeries. Honoured at the 2020 Svenska Hjältar Gala, she insisted she was no hero. In 2025, Emma runs marathons, spends time with her family, and has written a book about survival and resilience.

Children under three will face a total screen ban (sorry, iPad toddlers!), and the under-sixes get a mere hour per week. Older primary kids will scale up gradually, though even the big ones top out at two hours. Secondary schools can make their own rules, with special needs students exempt.

Meanwhile, Spain’s national government is plotting its own crackdown: raising the social media age to 16, enforcing age checks and mandating default parental controls on smartphones. A nationwide education campaign is also on the cards. So, while some regions ponder phone policies, Madrid’s message is clear: less swipe, more scribble!

Thanks again for all the welcome messages via my website! Thrilled you enjoy both my column - and novels!

Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

Swedish SuperMum walked through fire.

Ernst Kraft working in his studio.

Credit: Ernst Kraft

Just for you

FEW things surprise cat owners more than finding an unexpected ‘gift’ from their furry friend. Whether it is a toy dropped at your feet or something less appealing, such as a small rodent, this behaviour is rooted in your cat’s instincts and affection for you.

Cats are natural hunters, and even well-fed pets feel the urge to stalk and catch prey.

When a cat presents you with a gift, they may be sharing their ‘catch’ as they would with members of their family in the wild. For indoor cats, the

TIP

offerings are often less dramatic, ranging from crumpled paper and socks to favourite toys. Outdoor cats, however, may proudly deliver insects, birds or mice. While these presents might not always be welcome, they are often meant as a sign of trust and connection. The best way to respond is with gentle praise, before quietly disposing of any unpleasant gifts. Providing engaging play and hunting style toys can help channel these instincts in a cleaner, more convenient way.

Attending nature’s call

IT is possible to toilet train your pets. It gives them the freedom to wander around the house without having accidents. You should make sure that at least one litter box is provided for cats. During the day, puppies need a potty break every one or two hours. A dog’s ability to hold it for hours varies depending on the age. Make sure you clean the area regularly to avoid dirt and bacteria accumulating.

When I turn up as the house-sitter…

PEOPLE are often surprised when they open a house-sitter application on our secure site and find that I am the one who’s applied to care for their pets. Yes, it’s me Lamia, the owner of HouseSitMatch and I would like to be your designated house-sitter. Why? Well because I love animals and discovering new locations just like our many house-sitters. That’s the joy of house-sitting, discover a new location in the company of adorable pets and exchange your time for free accommodation. All you pay for is an annual membership fee to join our club. It’s a win win!

The pet-sitters come for Free!

And, 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 Housesit Match for affordable travel, home and pet care. Next steps:

1. Register as a Homeowner or a House-sitter, depending on your motivation, on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£ 89 GB per year) to ensure you

How do you join?

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?

HouseSit Match can help you find suitable sitters or a new place to discover as a house-sitter. Join our network for a small fee, get ID checked for safety and build your advert or house-sitter profile. It’s done in minutes!

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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!

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Please register online via our website Housesitmatch.com Need a pet- or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting benefits both parties, free house- and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation!

Whiff warning

YOU light a scented candle or spritz a new room spray and suddenly your cat is glaring at you from the doorway, ears back and tail twitching. Cats have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell, and while we may enjoy certain aromas, to them they can be completely off putting.

Citrus scents like lemon, orange and grapefruit are top of the feline dislike list, often causing them to recoil or avoid the area altogether. Strong smells such as menthol, vinegar, lavender and eucalyptus can also make your cat uncomfortable, so it is best to avoid using these indoors where they spend time.

Harsh cleaning products and heavily perfumed sprays may also do more harm than good in a cat friendly home.

On the other hand, those same scents can come in handy for deterring neighbourhood cats from digging in your garden. Scat-

tering orange or lemon peel, or using a citrus based spray, can help mark your flower beds as a no go zone, politely, of course.

Shutterstock / InessaNik

Shutterstock / rossiaa33

Lamia loves animals and housesitting in new places

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VW Polo Black Edition ticks all the boxes

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

UNBELIEVABLY, Volkswagen’s Polo has been with us for half a century and today’s range still pursues the original aim of affordable quality motoring. While the current range may have more competition, and at cheaper prices, the VW feeling of quality does shine through even on this, their entry level supermini.

Prices for the Polo range start from €24,862/£21,470. There are seven trim levels and standard equipment across the line-up includes auto lights and wipers, cruise control, air conditioning, power folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, LED lights, parking sensors, auto dimming rear view mirror and CarPlay plus Android Auto.

Facts at a Glance

• Model: Volkswagen Polo Black Edition

• Engine: 1.0-litre TSi, turbocharged, 3-cylinder developing 115PS

• Gears: 7-speed DSG automatic

• Price: €30,826/£26,620

• Performance: 9.8 secs to 100 kph/62 mph Maximum speed 201 kph/125 mph

• Economy: 4.69l per 100 km/50.1 mpg combined driving

• Emissions: 129g/km

Polo power comes largely in 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol form with power outputs ranging from 80PS through to 115PS and all bar the entry-level engine, are TSi units. The Polo GTI has a 2.0-litre TSi with 207PS and a 241kph/150mph top speed with the benchmark 100kph/62mph passed in just 6.5 seconds. Transmissions are either six-

My test model didn’t have the oomph of the GTi model but the 115PS, 1.0-litre TSi powering the Polo Black Edition, with seven-speed DSG automatic, passes the 100kph/62mph measurement in a whisker under 10 seconds and is more than capable. Priced at €30,826/£26,620 standard fare on the Black Edition models is generous with heated front sports seats, smart phone charging, high beam assist, dual zone AC, heated folding and adjustable door mirrors, adaptive cruise, the list continues. There is a welcome array of buttons and the fact the digital touchs-

much more useable and less frustrating drive. The seats are superbly comfortably and despite its diminutive size offers decent space for both front and rear seat passengers. Although a three-cylinder engine of small capacity there’s an admirable refinement, unless you really push the power, and enough verve when required. As with most VW models there is a restrained and understated style to the Polo, it’s classy and classless rather than adopting the more aggressive look of many competitors. Although there are some hard plastics inside the Polo there is a

Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

general feeling of quality lacking in similar models from other manufacturers. If you want a supermini that’s just as at home in the city, rural lanes or motorway then the Polo ticks all the boxes. It’s discreet and has a name, VW, that is rightly considered a class above the norm. It simply has to be on your shopping shortlist.

Car cameras increase

SPAIN’S drivers are about to meet their new co-pilots: Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS), set to become standard in all new cars thanks to upcoming EU safety rules. These discreet dashboard cameras, already rolling out in models from Renault to BMW, use artificial intelligence to spot if you’re drowsy, distracted, or simply not paying attention. The system doesn’t just beep - it actually ‘watches’ your face, learns your typical habits (how often you blink, where you look), and issues friendly nudges when your focus slips. If you ignore the warnings, some cars can even slow down or take action to keep you safe.

Why all the surveillance? The EU is on a mission to cut road deaths caused by fatigue, inattention, and even drink-driving. With over 90 per cent of accidents blamed on human error, officials hope DMS will help prevent thousands of crashes a year. Forget the era when your car only cared about seatbelts or oil changes; now

it’s got your back (and your eyelids) covered, acting like a helpful mate rather than an intrusive ‘Big Brother’. And this isn’t just a luxury-car gimmick anymore. Euro NCAP, Europe’s car safety watchdog, now rates all new vehicles on their DMS features, and Spain is following suit. That means even affordable family cars will soon be equipped to monitor your attention and well-being on the road.

Not everyone’s thrilled about the idea of being ‘watched’ behind the wheel, but most drivers will likely accept the tech if it leads to safer journeys.

Modern cars are keeping an eye on drivers.

Millionaire who stole a kid’s cap crushed online

THE US Open used to have a lot of drama on the court, but these days the headlines were stolen by a man in the stands. A viral clip has put Polish CEO Piotr Szczerek and his company Drogbruk under fire after he was filmed grabbing a signed cap from tennis player Kamil Majchrzak. It was the fastest backhand grab of the tournament, too bad it didn’t even happen on the court.

The big problem? That cap was clearly meant for a young fan, not for him. The footage shows Majchrzak, fresh off his stunning win against topten seed Karen Khachanov, heading to the stands to give his hat to a boy named Brock. Just as the kid reached out, Szczerek swooped in and stuffed the prize into his partner’s bag. Social media erupted, branding him everything from “selfish” to “the hat thief of Flushing Meadows.”

Piotr Szczerek, 51, co-founded the

paving and landscaping giant Drogbruk in 1999 alongside his wife, Anna. The company deals in paving stones, fences, and decorative landscaping materials. If he wanted a worldwide brand, he just got one. But not at all in a positive way.

Majchrzak quickly stepped in to smooth things over, meeting Brock again and giving him a fresh hat. Meanwhile, Drogbruk’s social media has gone into damage control, limiting comments and staying silent as the clip continues to rack up millions of views worldwide.

Golden goodbyes

JOSE MOURINHO, one of football’s most decorated managers, has reached a remarkable financial milestone, reportedly earning around £100 million purely from severance packages.

The Portuguese coach’s most recent dismissal came at Fenerbahçe, who parted ways with him just two games into the 2025–26 season after their Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica. Reports suggest the Turkish side paid Mourinho approximately €15 million (about £13 million) in compensation, pushing his cumulative earnings from sackings into nine figures.

This follows a long pattern of lucrative exits. In 2018, Mourinho received £19.6 million when leaving Manchester United. His departure from Tottenham Hotspur in 2021 added another £15 million, while Real Madrid are said to have paid him about

£17 million in 2013. Earlier dismissals at Chelsea (on two occasions), Inter Milan and Porto also brought in substantial settlements.

Such payouts highlight the contractual realities of elite football management. Clubs frequently offer long-term, high-value deals to managers of Mourinho’s stature, with hefty termination clauses designed to secure stability but which can become cost-

ly when results fall short. Few managers have been able to benefit from these conditions as consistently as Mourinho. Despite the controversies surrounding his departures, Mourinho’s track record keeps him in demand. His achievements include league titles in Portugal, England, Spain and Italy, along with two Champions League triumphs with Porto and Inter Milan.

Mourinho is one of the worlds most acclaimed coaches.

The moment when Piotr Szczerek became famous.