Costa del Sol 27 March – 2 April 2025 Issue 2073

Exclusive: Mullins hits back after OBE row

Slams Labour over alleged smear tactics

SPEAKING to Euro Weekly News, Charlie Mullins claims the attempt to strip him of his OBE was a politically motivated smear campaign - and he’s naming names.

A few ‘controversial’ comments on social media and TV - including criticism of Sadiq Khan, a swipe at Carol Vorderman, and a joke told at the British Curry Awards that one man in the crowd labelled ‘racist’.

Although the committee eventually backed downreportedly after Mullins’ legal team spent three months fighting the claims and Mullins himself decided to agree to ‘gender sensitivity and diversity training’ - the businessman says the fight isn’t over. He insists the threat was politically motivated, a form of ‘bullying’ aimed at silencing dissident voices.

“They couldn’t take my medal, so now they’re trying to take my name,” he told the Euro Weekly News

Mullins believes Labour figures are behind a wider campaign to silence himand he’s even considering suing for slander. “They want to rewrite the facts,” he says, “pretending I just about clung onto my OBEwhen in truth, I fought and won because they were wrong.”

But behind the head-

lines, Mullins says pressure has also come from HMRC. He claims the tax office has been harassing him ever since he moved out of the UK. “They’re putting pressure on me because they want money. After I pumped millions of pounds into the system throughout the years.” He also started publicly criti-

cising Labour and backing Reform UK. And if it continues? He says he’ll move his business to Dubai.

“I’ve had enough,” he says. “I just want to run my business and see the country grow. But Labour’s anti-business policies are dragging us backwards - more debt, less growth, fewer jobs.”

He’s now calling on Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves and Angela Rayner to step aside, accusing them of pushing short-sighted policies and punishing anyone who refuses to toe the line.

That’s how freedom dies: not with a bang, but drip by drip, while the powers that be watch. Charlie Mullins refuses to be silenced.

Costa del Sol • Issue No.

Exclusive: Charlie Mullins breaks his silence on the failed attempt to strip his OBE over political tweetsand calls out Labour by name.

Credit: Charlie Mullins

Mystery of missing Martina solved

MARTINA, a German carer living in Elviria, Marbella, has been found alive in Huelva after police launched a large-scale missing persons alert.

Reported missing by her housemate and the daughter of one of her customers, she was spotted by police on CCTV walking her dog, Ellie, far from Elviria.

The housemate, who runs a reputable company providing German-speaking carers for the elderly, said police con rmed the footage showed Martina.

Martina had lived in Andalucia since 2021, earning trust as a carer for elderly German residents despite lacking a valid Spanish NIE or legally validated German care certi cate. She vanished after leaving a client’s home on Friday, March 14, telling them she’d return Monday.

Her housemate grew

alarmed when she left without her possessions, sparking a community-wide call for sightings.

As police struggled to locate her, messages ooded in - many praising her care, others alleging theft. Former clients claimed valuable items disappeared, with one family apparent-

hidden camera. No police reports were led - she was just asked to leave. Now, with her whereabouts conrmed and reports being led, authorities may open an investigation.

It is thought that perhaps Martina may be heading to the Algarve’s Ger-

man expat community. In Elviria, relief at her safety is soured by anger from alleged victims and her housemate, who is €7,000 out of pocket and fears damage to his own professional reputation. The Costa del Sol community is left reeling and feeling betrayed.

Cartoon hero park

TORREMOLINOS is to transform Parque de La Batería into a vibrant tribute to Francisco Ibáñez’s beloved comic characters, Mortadelo and Filemón.

The project, first announced at Fitur 2024, aims to install large-scale, three-dimensional figures of the late cartoonist’s creations, forming a themed route through the town’s prized green space.

After an initial bidding round in November 2024 failed to secure a contractor, despite interest from firms as far afield as Cuenca and Galicia, the council has reset the plan to guarantee higher qua-

lity, in line with demands from Ibáñez’s heirs.

The revamped tender, budgeted at €78,000, seeks to recreate the quirky

charm of characters like Mortadelo (envisioned in an espeto costume), Filemón, and Rompetechos.

The project, partly funded by a €60,000 grant from the Andalucian Tourism Department, promises to boost the park’s appeal as a family-friendly attraction. The goal is to unveil the display by August 2025, offering a nostalgic hat-hip to generations raised on the humour of Ibáñez.

Negotiations with Pen-

guin Random House, the rights holder, secured an eight-year usage deal for €24,000, up from an earlier six-year term. While the park already hosts a Ratoncito Pérez house, its boating lake remains dry due to drought measures. Del Cid stressed the dual aim, saying “honouring Ibáñez and enhancing Torremolinos’ cultural draw.” Locals and tourists await this playful addition to La Batería’s landscape.

Images of Martina.

Mortadelo and Filemón,

of new installations on Parque de la Batería.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Torremolinos

Spanish retirement reforms

Key changes from April 2025

FROM April 1, Spain’s Social Security system will introduce significant changes affecting partial retirement, active retirement, and delayed retirement. These changes aim to improve the compatibility between pensions and employment, allowing more people to work, should they choose to, while still receiving their pension.

Partial retirement in Spain

One of the most notable reforms is to partial retirement, both with and without a replacement contract. The key up dates include:

• Early partial retirement will be available up to three years before the official retirement age.

• Employees working more than two years in advance can reduce their working hours by 20-33 per cent in the first year.

• Temporary workers can now be hired as relief workers for those on partial retirement.

• The replacement contract must now be full-time and permanent, the replacement employee must remain in the position for at least two years after the partial retiree steps down.

• Workers reaching the standard retirement age can now opt for partial retirement without a replacement contract, with working hour reductions between 25 per cent and 75 per cent (previously capped at 50 per cent).

Active retirement in Spain

Active retirement, which allows pensioners to work while receiving their pension, will undergo major changes. From April 2025:

• Pensioners will no longer be required to have completed their entire contribution career to qualify.

• Active retirement can now be combined with delayed retirement incentives, offering greater flexibility.

The percentage of pension allowed while working will gradually increase over time:

• one year of active retirement: 45 per cent of pension can

be received.

• two years: 55 per cent

• three years: 65 per cent

• After five years: 100 per cent of pension can be received.

This reform aims to encourage older workers to stay in the labour market without financial penalties while providing a smoother transition to full retirement.

Delayed retirement in Spain

The Spanish government is also modifying delayed retirement rules, which allow workers to postpone their retirement in exchange for a higher pension.

• From April 2025, workers will only need to contribute for six months in the second year of their delay to qualify for Social Security financial incentives.

• Previously, a full year of contributions was required to access these benefits.

• This adjustment aims to encourage more workers to delay retirement, giving them access to incentives sooner. https://www.sede.seg-social.gob.es

Warning to used car buyers

THE Guardia Civil has sounded the alarm on Spain’s booming second-hand car market, warning buyers to be on high alert for online deals that seem too good to be true. With prices soaring, more motorists are turning to used cars, but that bargain motor could come with a nasty surprise.

In a video on TikTok (@ guardia_civil_navarra), an officer from the Benemerita delivered a clear message: “Never make a pay-

ment before seeing the vehicle in person.” He also offered a golden rule for spotting a scam: “If the price seems suspiciously low, don’t trust it.”

The warning comes amid a rise in fraudulent listings and dodgy deals, with criminals preying on eager buyers looking for a bargain. Scammers often lure victims with unrealistically low prices, pressuring them into sending deposits before they even set eyes on the car.

To steer clear of trouble, the Guardia Civil recommends requesting a full vehicle report from Spain’s DGT. This official document provides crucial details, such as past owners-

Clocks go forward

DAYLIGHT Savings Time begins on Sunday March 30 at 2.00am. At this time, clocks will ‘spring forward’ as we welcome in the longer days and sunnier seasons of spring and summer.

British Embassy: get TIE now

FOR those of you who still have the green certificate to validate your legal residency in Spain, you will have to change it for a TIE card now or face not being able to travel.

New information from the Spanish government, supplied to the Euro Weekly News by the British Embassy in Spain, says that the soon-to-be implemented Entry Exit System (EES) of the EU will not recognise the old green certificate as a valid ID.

The EES is expected at some point in 2025. Under this new border system, all non-EU short-stay travellers will need to register their name, passport details, and data upon entering Spain or any other EU country.

British residents in Spain will need to show a valid uniform-format identity card, in this case the TIE, to be exempt from the EES system and therefore travel freely across the Schengen EU border to the UK and back, as the green certificate will no longer be accepted as proof of residency in Spain. Without a TIE, it could be that the computers flag you as having stayed too long in the EU and therefor Border officers may detain you, or expel you from the country.

More information on how to apply, including links to Spanish government websites where the applications are made, can be found on the ‘Living in Spain’ guide on gov.uk.

Tax season is almost here!

hip, accident history, and any outstanding debts on the car.

Beyond checking the paperwork, experts advise buyers to consider key factors like the car’s reliability, size, fuel type, and, most importantly, their budget. Comparing different makes and models is also a smart move to ensure you’re not overpaying - or worse, being conned.

Many buyers also use second-hand car checking services like www.needcarhelp.es. These services will come and check the second-hand car you’re interested in and give you a full report of any faults or issues found. They also run a car history check and check the documents for you.

TAX season is approaching fast in Spain, and from March 19, residents can access their fiscal data online via the Agencia Tributaria portal. This early check allows you to spot mistakes or missing details before the official income tax return (IRPF) filing period begins on April 2. Reviewing your information ahead of time helps avoid last-minute corrections or potential fines. Common errors include incorrect addresses, outdated bank accounts, or missing income records. If you discover an issue after submitting, you can still amend your return before the final deadline. To check your data, visit the Agencia Tributaria website and select ‘Datos Fiscales’.

You can log in using cl@ve, electronic DNI, a digital certificate, or the reference number from last year’s return. Once inside, you’ll be able to verify and update your tax details directly. While online filing opens on April 2, those preferring in-person appointments will need to wait until May when face-to-face services become available. Spain’s tax office reminds residents that Bizum transfers under €10,000 usually don’t need to be declared, unless they are business-related. Inheritances themselves are not included in income tax returns, but any profit from the sale or rental of inherited assets must be reported. Workers with multiple employers also face additional filing obligations - if you earned more than €15,000 across various sources and over €1,500 from a second employer, you will need to file. In general, anyone earning more than €22,000 per year must submit a return, though exceptions apply. Taking time to review your data now could help you avoid complications down the line.

https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/

Community together for toys

TOM GRIFFIN, the Managing Director of deVere Spain, is always thinking up ideas of how to support the local community, and the start of 2025 is no different. Being a father himself, he is conscious that there are many children that are left without a home. These children often face neglect, loss, and emotional trauma.

This got him thinking about how a community appeal for unwanted toys could provide hope and love for children who have experienced hard times.

Little did he realise how successful such an appeal would become before he called upon Age Concern Fuengirola, Mijas & Benalmadena to get involved. Norman Joliffe, Deputy President, was only too happy to get involved. A few telephone calls later and a very grateful message: ‘Wow! Thanks. That is

Toy donations, because most of us have some.

fabulous! Yes, please’.

The toys have found new homes at Ciudad de Los Niños, run by the Hermanos Obreros de María Foundation, which was founded in 1950 by Brother Carlos Fernández Dorador, to provide shelter for children and young people with social and family problems, offering them a family home and training that will enable their future integration into the workplace and society.

The orphanage expressed their thanks to the community for donating the collected toys, as it has put beaming smiles on the faces of the children under their care.

Age Concern looks forward to working on future projects together. Watch this space for more Age Concern Fuengirola, Mijas & Benalmadena community action.

Andalucia boost

ANDALUCIA is at a crossroads of an eco nomic boost and a transformative future with the regional government’s newly unveiled strategy to address the demographic challenge.

Presented by Justice and Lo cal Administration councillor José Anto nio Nieto, the draft plan hopes to grow the region’s population to 10 million by 2050 and at the same time bring the local economy up to match the national average. No longer to be the poor region of Spain, the scheme seeks to bring everyone’s earnings up.

of Andalucians will live within 30 minutes of motorways, healthcare, and schools, with universities and social services reachable in 50 and 35 minutes, respectively. The idea is to make rural living viable, reversing the trend where over half of the region’s 8.6 million residents cluster in just 30 cities.

The strategy tackles more than just rural depopulation and ageing. It hopes to achieve balanced growth across the region, targeting 95 priority municipalities to halt the past decade’s 80 per cent population decline.

Accessibility is key: 97 per cent

Economically, the plan is the most positive news in years. By boosting everyone’s income, Andalucia intends to pair population growth with sustainable job creation. Nieto calls the goals ‘ambitious but achievable’, supported by four pillars: demographic integration in all policies, social cohesion, economic development, and territorial balance to ease urban overcrowding. For Spain’s most populous community, the vision signals a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.

Reservoirs brimming

AFTER months of parched landscapes and water shortages, the reservoirs of Malaga Province are bouncing back in spectacular fashion. Thanks to relentless rainfall and runoff from the recent storm ‘Jana’, three key reservoirs are now close to full capacity - a dramatic turnaround from the critical levels seen just months ago.

According to the latest data from the Red Hidrosur, La Concepcion reservoir, which supplies much of the Costa del Sol, is currently 83.07 per cent full, holding 47.80 hectometres cubed (hm3) of water out of its 57.54 hm3 capacity.

In fact, as previously reported by the Euro Weekly News, the reservoir has been releasing excess water for several days to maintain safe levels. With 585.10 litres per square metre of rainfall already recorded in this hydrological year, its basin has soaked up more than anywhere else in the region.

Meanwhile, the Casasola

Guadalhorce reservoir. El Chorro. Andalucía’s reservoirs brimming after months of drought - but is it enough?

and Conde de Guadalhorce reservoirs are also nearing their limits, boasting water levels of 87.44 per cent and 93.62 per cent respectively. However, while some reservoirs are overflowing, others remain far below ideal levels, with the overall provincial water reserve sitting at 43.27 per cent capacity.

Reservoir levels across the province: Conde de Guadalhorce:

La

Guadalhorce:

While the recent rains have provided a much-needed boost, not all reservoirs are benefiting equally. La Viñuela and Guadalhorce remain worryingly low, meaning water restrictions could still be on the cards.

Beautiful village of Acebuchal with only 15 residents left.

Credit: elacebuchal.com

Stadium green light

MARBELLA has just taken a key step in the beginning of the new municipal stadium as the council rejects attempts to block the construction.

Spokesman of the local Executive, Félix Romero, announced the Local Government Board decision, stressing that the plan, with an investment of €114 million, is a priority to provide the city with facilities according to its needs.

The project is expected to be awarded in the next couple of months, with an execution period of two years from the laying of the first brick.

Romero continued by recalling that after detecting serious deficiencies in the current facility, an architectural contest was carried out, in which it was decided that the project should be ma-

naged by Marbella FC Foundation. During the process, seven objections were presented, which have now been dismissed. Demolition of the old stadium is expected to begin in the summer.

Marbella Council has established an evaluation criteria that favours the organisation of events, the promotion of sports clinics for young people and the availability of the stadium for municipal activities.

The project, which will transform the Marbella’s sports infrastructure, will be developed on a plot of 45,000 square metres and will include a stadium with capacity for 10,000 spectators, 2,500 square metres of shops, accommodation with 84 rooms for visiting teams, and more than 1,000 parking spaces.

Marbella gives

MARBELLA Council has renewed its partnership with the DYA Association to sustain the Food Security Programme, setting aside €180,000 this year.

Since its inception, the Food Security Programme has helped over 400 families in Marbella, offering a helping hand through ‘wallet cards’ valued between €100 and €150, depending on each household size.

The cash on the cards is redeemable at local supermarkets and enables recipients to independently buy food and hygiene products, easing the daily financial burdens.

DYA (Detente Y Ayuda / Stop and Help) Manager Paqui Muñoz praised the council’s continued generosity, stressing the council’s donations as a vital role during tough times. She highlighted how the

programme helps many families make ends meet, ensuring vital necessities.

The cards function like shopping vouchers and are tailored to family size, with applications available via the DYA website.

The straightforward aid process has proven essential for many, offering timely economic support to improve quality of life.

Marbella Council’s commitment demonstrates the sustained effort to bolster

community cohesion, making a major difference for those in need.

Signed by Mayor Ángeles Muñoz and DYA President Francisco Mejías, the agreement brings the council’s total investment since the programme’s 2020 launch to over €1.2 million.

The initiative hopes to support the city’s most vulnerable families by providing prepaid cards for essential purchases.

Credit: Huete Arquitectos

DYA volunteers identify the most in need in Marbella.

DYAFacebook

Design for future stadium.

Keep revenue in Torremolinos

TORREMOLINOS mayor

Margarita del Cid has proposed that improving financial support for tourist destinations, particularly through reallocating VAT revenue, could counter rising ‘tourism-phobia’.

Speaking at the SolyTUR conference in Madrid, Del Cid presented the strategy during a panel titled ‘A New Model Based on Environmental and Social Commitment’.

“Torremolinos has an advantage,” she said, “tourism is woven into our identity,” referencing the town’s evolution from a fishing village in the 1950s to a global sun-and-beach hotspot. She argued that better funding would highlight tourism’s economic value, reducing local resentment.

“The VAT collected from holidaymakers’ spending should go to the towns generating it,” she expressed, noting that 40 per cent of Costa del Sol’s lodging, more than 54,000

Credit: MdC, Facebook.

beds, is in Torremolinos.

The mayor highlighted a record-breaking January, with 50 per cent hotel occupancy and 1,713 jobs created in the sector, highlighting tourism’s role in employment. She also revealed a €50 million hotel renovation investment planned for 2025-2026, a sum she called ‘unmanageable’ for local government alone, inviting the private-sector to participate.

Del Cid linked improved funding to urban regeneration, a key focus of a recently unveiled plan for European funds, targeting street upgrades, mobility, and environmental and social betterment.

“Boosting tourism financing is the best antidote to tourism-phobia,” she concluded, advocating for a model that balances economic growth with community well-being in one of Spain’s top destinations.

More Mijas cops

HAVE the police stopped you recently in Mijas? Local Police have demonstrated the value of having more police on the beat, visible for everyone to see to dissuade those up to no good from visiting.

The council demonstrated on Friday, March 21, how making Local Police more visible in the various districts of the municipality kept Mijas streets more free of crime.

The councillor for Security stressed, “The safety and peace of mind of our neighbours is an absolute priority, and for this it is essential we strengthen the police presence in Mijas Pueblo, Las Lagunas and La Cala,” also informing that, in recent days, preventive controls deployed in different

parts of the town have allowed the arrest, only this week, of up to four people with court orders in force.

The mayor also pointed out that the number of arrests so far this year has reached 13, of which 10 correspond to search and arrest warrants, wo to crimes related to stolen vehicles and ne for alleged burglary.

The policy is based on a strategy by Local Police and the council to let the criminal element know that they are not welcome in Mijas and that the local authorities are on the case, and therefore remind and reassure the local population that Mijas is one of the safest municipalities in the country. So, if the police do stop you in Mijas, don’t take it personally.

Mayor of Torremolinos, Margarita del Cid.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Mijas

Mijas Local Police on patrol.

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Introducing equity release options

FOR many expatriates residing on the Costa del Sol, unlocking the equity tied up in their homes has historically been difficult to do. Traditional Spanish financial institutions often present limited options for equity release, making it almost impossible for expat homeowners over 65 to access the funds they’ve accumulated in their properties. This has left many retirees in a difficult position, as living costs continue to rise.

The financial landscape for expats in Spain

Spain has long been a popular retirement destination for UK and European expats. However, when it comes to financial products tailored for expatriates, the options are often limited. Strict lending criteria are often imposed, making it difficult for older homeowners to access capital without needing to move from their home or have high repayment obligations.

In addition, pension incomes may not always stretch as far as anticipated, especially with inflation and fluctuating exchange rates impacting the value of UK-based

pensions when converted to euros. This has left many expats looking for alternative ways to supplement their retirement income without giving up their dream home in Spain.

Introducing a new equity release solution

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Dream luxury marina

MALAGA is on the verge of achieving its dream of a luxurious marina akin to Puerto Banus, as the Port Authority has given final approval to the San Andrés marina project.

The administrative step clears a major legal hurdle in the process for building the luxury nautical complex, giving a clearer date for completion and backed by the same investors behind the planned 147-metre skyscraper on the Levante dock.

The San Andrés marina is expected to take two years to complete, and it is hoped to be up and running by late 2027. It will feature over 500 berths, including spaces for superyachts up to 50 metres, and is set to transform Malaga’s urban landscape.

The project aligns with other developments, such as the con -

cert auditorium, the El Bulto residential complex, and a 9,000-square-metre office hub by Merlin Properties and the Nieto family office, all in walking distance to Malaga’s María Zambrano railway station, a key gateway from the Costa del Sol capital to Madrid in under three hours.

Led by a consortium including Qatar’s royal family-linked Al Alfia,

Igy Marinas, and Ocean Capital Partners, the marina promises the height of luxury, with plans for brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, alongside some of the finest dining.

The marina will serve as a social hub, while a tourist wharf and 45-metre ferris wheel aim to increase the site’s appeal as a tourist attraction.

Mijas reins in feral

MIJAS Council has set aside €112,000 for an annual contract to manage its wild cat colonies, in line with the Animal Welfare Law.

These feral felines, a vital part of the local ecosystem, roam the various districts of Mijas as part of the natural fauna, contributing to pest control and biodiversity. The scheme hopes to professionalise their care while ensuring health and population stability.

The contract requires the appointed company to map existing colonies, assess the safety of their locations, and train volunteers from local associations in colony management.

A key focus will be the ‘capture, sterilisation, and return’ method, which involves trapping cats, sterilising and vaccinating them (rabies and trivalent shots), microchipping, and relea-

cats

sing them back to their wild habitats. Added to the process is a deworming treatment, making sure the cats thrive without the population growing unsustainably.

Collaborations are being forged with charities and animal welfare associations with the council’s commitment to the cats’ well-being. Mijas’ significant investment is impressive compared to other provincial towns. The contractor awarded the contract will also hold public awareness campaigns to inform local residents about the colonies’ role in the ecosystem.

Wild cat colonies are an essential element to Mijas’ ecological balance, naturally curbing rodent populations from growing out of control. Management of Mijas’ wild cats safeguards their place in the natural surroundings.

Credit: Estudio Segui

Design for new San Andrés marina complex.

Feral cats keeping guard of Mijas streets.

ALHAURIN DE LA TO-

RRE is giving away a large plot of land for absolutely free for a developer to build subsidised homes.

The council has not been able to shift the 2,109.83-square-metre plot for some time and is lacking affordable, price-controlled housing for its citizens. They

Free land for developer

have just relaunched a tender for the land in Torrealqueria, valued at €600,000, after the initial February bidding round ended without takers. The new price? Zero euros.

The site could easily

hold about 40 subsidised homes (VPOs). The winning developer would control the land for the next 75 years, free of municipal taxes tied to construction, before it reverts to public ownership.

VPOs (Viviendas de protección oficial) are properties that have their value controlled by legislation so that they cannot be speculated upon, and maintain an affordable price for lower income

residents.

The initial tender came back with no developer wanting to put in a bid. According to the councillor in charge of leasing the land, Abel Perea, who said, “It’s hard to get cheaper than free.”

The council aims to address housing needs amid rising costs and a stagnant construction sector in the area, a situation mirrored in other Greater Malaga towns.

EASTER is rapidly approaching, and the Palacio de Congresos in Torremolinos welcomed around 1,500 job seekers on Thursday, March 20, for the third Jornada Emplea Turismo Malaga-Costa del Sol.

Over 90 tourism businesses, including hotel chains, restaurants, bars, cafés, and beachside chiringuitos, were offering more than 1,800 immediate job openings, revealing the sector’s demand for talent ahead of the high season.

The event, organised by Aehcos, MAHOS, and Aeplayas, was backed by the Junta de Andalucia,

After this latest setback, Alhaurin de la Torre plans to republish the tender, hoping to draw companies willing to bet

on the long-term rental market. For now, the vision of affordable homes in the Torrealqueria area of town remains on hold.

Costa del Sol employs

Malaga Provincial Council, and Torremolinos Council.

Attendees engaged directly with human resources representatives from exhibitors, gaining insights into vacancies spanning hospitality and gastronomy. Public and private training entities, including SAE schools (Cio Mijas, La Fonda, La Cónsula), the University of Malaga’s Tourism Faculty, and private groups such as FEDA Madrid and Cesur, provided details on training programmes to

boost skills in tourism and customer care.

The Costa del Sol’s tourism sector, a cornerstone of Malaga and Andalucia’s economy, showcased its growth and need for qualified workers. Organisers showcased the event’s role in boosting employability and professional standards, offering both job seekers and students a chance to explore immediate opportunities and career paths in one of Spain’s top tourism hubs.

Alhaurin de la Torre.

Fire inspections Fuengirola West Malaga hot spot

FUENGIROLA Fire Department has launched its Annual Inspection Plan, reviewing hospitality businesses for risks of fire, such as restaurants and grills.

The action is part of the firefighters’ routine annual duties, which include over 1,000 actions such as hydrant checks and commercial property reviews.

The inspections aim to fine tune fire prevention awareness rather than impose penalties. The goal isn’t to fine anyone, but to identify deficiencies, inform owners, and ensure corrective measures are taken, according to the council. The plan, put on the municipal calendar at the start of the year, involves assessing establishments that use potentially hazardous equipment, reviewing preventive and corrective me-

asures, and checking first-response firefighting tools. These visits also allow firefighters to strategise responses to potential blazes.

Inspections will focus for the greater part on fire suppression systems, including extinguishers, gas installations, and thermal blankets, per building code standards. So far this year, they have inspected about 25 venues. Most are said to fully comply, but when they don’t, recommendations are offered like specialised extinguishers for extractor hoods based on oil volume.

According to the council, it’s about prevention and readiness mixing both proactive visits to establishments and training fire officers in what to expect in the event of a fire.

THE western stretch of Malaga is ready to become the region’s most sought-after residential district, given the latest runaway success, Térmica Beach, the city’s latest luxury housing development.

According to a recent real estate study, the high-end project in the city’s furthest western corner has already sold 50 of its first-phase units, raking in €50 million. Surprisingly, and contrary to what many might suppose, neither Russians nor British buyers dominate the rush to buy. Instead, it’s Spanish nationals, particularly professionals from Madrid, who are snapping up these premium properties, drawn by Malaga’s sunny climate, family-friendly ambience and the promise of a sophisticated coastal lifestyle. With prices starting at €500,000 and reaching up to €2.6 million for top-tier units, Térmica Beach is emblematic of the west’s transformation into a luxury seafront haven. Urban planning experts

reckon the area’s appeal is down to its blend of modern developments, proximity to pristine beaches, and ambitious projects like the Antonio Banderas promenade extension. The western district’s rise outpaces traditional hotspots like Mala-

gueta-Monte Sancha, lining it up to be Malaga’s future residential crown jewel. As Malaga evolves beyond its charter flight-holiday reputation, the west is set to redefine luxury living, making it the region’s most popular address.

Firefighters on patrol in Fuengirola.

Credit: Ayuntamiento Fuengirola

Marbella backs Sarah

ADAPTIVE surfing star of Marbella, Sarah Almagro, has signed a trailblazing sponsorship deal with MarcaMarbella, ensuring support until 2028.

The deal not only provides vital financial backing but also brings visibility to adaptive surfing, a minority sport yet to join the Paralympic roster. “It’s taken over a year, but I finally have my city’s backing,” Almagro said, brimming with excitement. “It’s more than money. It’s a powerful helping hand for our sport.”

MarcaMarbella’s programme works for individual federated athletes who need assistance to compete, and Almagro’s deal puts Marbella’s money where its mouth is in its commitment to local talent.

The sponsorship will pay for her packed schedule as she gears up for key events. Soon, she is heading to Gran Canaria to train on a challenging wave where Spain will host the first-ever national championship. “It’s a tricky wave to ride,” she commented, showing her focus on mastering it to ready for the competition. With MarcaMarbella’s backing, Almagro feels confident and driven. “Now, we just await the results ahead,” she said.

Five years ago Sarah suffered a debilitating meningococcal meningitis, and other complications changed her life and led to her having all four limbs amputated as well as a kidney transplant.

Since then, she has become the number two in the world in parasurfing. With this sponsorship, the number one podium position is within her reach.

Low emissions Mijas

MIJAS Council has finalised plans to introduce a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) only in Mijas Pueblo, sparing the rest of the municipality from any restrictions.

According to the latest regulations imposed by the European Commission, all municipalities of 50,000 inhabitants or more in the European Union must apply limitations (essentially applying to older cars) on higher emissions vehicles. In the case of Marbella, the council has installed the mandated technology but has not switched it on yet, with no confirmed date for doing so.

In Torremolinos too, but it only covers a very small area in the centre of town where restrictions already existed.

Set to launch before the year’s end, the scheme complies with the EC’s Climate Change Law and will focus solely on the historic village centre, aiming to preserve its charm while reducing pollution.

The restricted area spans from Plaza de la Constitución to the multi-storey car park, covering busy streets like Avenida del Compás and Calle Malaga. Only

vehicles with Spain’s DGT environmental badges (zero-emission, ECO, C, or B) will be allowed in, though exceptions apply for residents, local workers, and delivery services.

Mayor Ana Mata talked of a tailored approach, noting, “We’re protecting our pueblo’s air quality and heritage without burdening La Cala or Las Lagunas.” Local opinions are mixed: pueblo shopkeepers worry about customer access, while environmentalists praise the move.

Sarah Almagro, champion parasurfer.

Mijas Pueblo to be restricted as an LEZ.

Cops cordoned off

LOCAL artist D Darko gave a hat tip to International Poetry Day on Friday, March 21, surprising local residents and tourists with his latest creation in the middle of Mijas Pueblo.

A Local Police car totally covered in police tape with the printed words ‘Poesia Local’ instead of ‘Policía Local’. The cordoned-off, or rather, ‘cordoned in’ vehicle raised more than a few eyebrows with curious onlookers wondering what was going on, capturing the moment on their social media accounts.

After the stunt in Plaza Virgen de la Peña, it was the turn of Las Lagunas de Mijas in front of the Manuel España Theatre and municipal library, where librarians joined the commemoration of Poetry Day by setting up stands with selections of poetry books.

Darko also took to social media later that day to say, “I want to thank Mijas Council, especially @culturamijas, for giving me the opportunity to carry out this project with full freedom, as well as the town’s Local Police for their treatment and predisposition at all times.”

Palm trees in the pipeline

BENALMADENA has greenlit an ambitious project to install an 8.5-kilometre pipeline along the coastal strip, designed to transport reclaimed water for irrigating more palm trees.

The scheme will involve digging up the entire coastal fringe to lay the groundwork for a system linking the local water treatment plant to key green spaces with the aim of not relying on precious drinking water for non-consumption purposes.

The plan forms part of a wider project to repair and update the entirety of

the town’s water pipe and drainage systems, which is why you may have noticed digging all over the place.

Deputy Mayor Juan Olea hailed the pipeline as a ‘vital step’ towards sustainability, ensuring the coast’s greenery thrives without straining water resources. The reclaimed water, treated to safe standards, will irrigate gardens and public areas, offering an eco-friendly solution to maintain Benalmadena’s appeal as a tourist hotspot.

With costs still undisclosed, councillors expect the project to get

underway quickly once a contractor is selected.

The pipeline will stretch from the local water treatment facility to strategic points along the coast, slicing through the drought-hit region. Olea stressed that this move is in line with broader actions to adapt to resource challenges, promising long-term benefits for residents and holidaymakers. Expect roadworks.

Benalmadena’s Avenida del Sol.

Mijas police, cordoned off.

UFO sightings

STRANGE lights have been spotted in Irish skies two nights in a row, baffling onlookers and fuelling conspiracy theories. But, are these eerie sightings just the start of something bigger?

Some say satellites. Others say swamp gas. Some claim they’re top-secret government aircraft. And others? They’re already using the ‘A’ word... Is there something we’re not being told?

There’s something strange afoot in the skies above Ireland - and it’s not just the weather.

For two nights last week, baffled onlookers from the south coast to the capital watched as eerie glowing, flashing lights appeared in the night sky. Over Dublin, not one but two unidentified lights shimmered side-by-side on Wednesday evening, March 19. The night before, a solitary flashing object lit up the skies

further south, causing uneasiness on the ground. Were they satellites? The International Space Station? Or something far less ordinary?

“Does anyone have any ideas?”

That was the plea from Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather, who took to social media to share footage sent to him by two followers. The videos showed what many would simply call a UFO - an Unidentified

Flying Object - drifting through the darkness.

“I received two videos from followers showing an unusual object in the sky over the last two nights,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “The first part is from last night over Dublin, and the second is from the night before off the south coast.”

His question - “Does anyone have any ideas?”sparked a digital firestorm of unidentified proportions.

40-year adoption ban lifted

ITALY’S Constitutional Court has struck down a decades-old ban preventing single Italians from adopting children internationally, opening a new chapter in the country’s adoption laws. The landmark decision ends a rule dating back more than 40 years, which allowed only married couples to adopt from abroad.

Judges ruled that excluding singles from the process could harm children by denying them the chance to grow up in a ‘stable and harmonious family environment’. The verdict comes as international adoptions in Italy decline sharply.

The national adoption commission reports a 5.6 per cent drop in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year, and a 14.3 per cent decrease since 2022.

While Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government opposed the change, Italy’s centre-left hailed the ruling as historic. Democratic Party lawmaker Alessandro Zan celebrated it as a ‘turning point’, saying it places children’s rights and personal freedoms at the heart of adoption law. “For too long, singles - and especially LGBTQ+ Italians - have been excluded,” Zan said.

“Now Parliament must act to remove the remaining ideological obstacles.” The ruling takes effect immediately, allowing single Italians to begin adoption proceedings abroad without the need for marriage. The decision comes amid heated debates on family rights in Italy. Just months ago, Meloni’s government criminalised surrogacy abroad, a move widely seen as targeting same-sex couples.

Italy’s Constitutional Court has ruled in favour of allowing single people to adopt foreign children, overturning a decades-old law.

Shutterstock, Raggedstone

Stock image of eerie glowing lights over a foggy winter sky - similar to last week’s reported UFO sightings in Ireland.

France crisis guide

FRANCE is set to distribute a national survival manual to every household by this summer as part of a major civil protection campaign.

According to reports from Europe 1, the 20-page guide will help prepare citizens for emergencies such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or future health crises. The move is inspired by similar measures taken in Sweden and Finland and is aimed at equipping the public with practical advice to enhance self-sufficiency in the event of a major disruption.

Border warning

France’s new survival guide will teach households how to prepare for emergencies, from conflict to natural disasters.

The manual outlines essential recommendations, including keeping at least six litres of bottled water, a stock of non-perishable food, and key emergency items like batteries, a torch, paracetamol, compresses,

hope that with these supplies, households will be able to cope independently for several days if services are interrupted. In addition to survival kit recommendations, the booklet will offer stepby-step instructions on how to respond to various alerts, covering a range of situations from natural disasters to public health emergencies. It will also highlight how citizens can contribute to national efforts, such

as supporting local civil protection groups or assisting the armed forces. The guide is currently awaiting final approval from Prime Minister François Bayrou.

Once agreed, the initiative will signal a shift in France’s civil defence strategy, aligning it more closely with other European nations prioritising public resilience amid global instability.

detained

highlights that having an ESTA or even a US visa no

GERMANY has issued updated travel advice for its citizens visiting the United States after three German nationals were detained at the US-Mexico border, despite holding valid travel documents. The warning highlights that having an ESTA or even a US visa no longer guarantees entry.

advises all German trave-

The Foreign O ce now advises all German travellers to the US to carry proof of their return journey and to prepare for heightened checks by border o cials. The notice warns that factors such as overstaying a prior visa, giving incomplete travel details, or having a criminal record - even for minor infractions - could lead to refusal of entry.

The alert follows reports that three German citizens were detained at the San Diego-Tijuana border and taken to a detention facility, despite being eligible under the visa waiver programme.

Germany’s Foreign O ce con rmed that the situation is under active investigation and has raised concerns at the diplomatic level. The warning coincides with stricter US immigration policies under the Trump administration, which have led to a spike in detentions, including among travellers from traditionally visa-exempt countries like Germany. O cials in Berlin

are closely monitoring the issue as anxiety grows over the unpredictability of US border controls.

German travellers are urged to be vigilant and ensure all documentation is in order. Even for short visits, the risk of complications at US borders has increased, with o cials reminding travellers nal entry decisions rest with the US authorities.

Germany’s Foreign Office in Berlin, which has issued a warning after German nationals were detained at the US border.

Credit : Shutterstock, Aksana Mestnaya

MY life never prepared me for April 1, 1997, the day I first walked into the small apartment that then housed the local newspaper I had been sent to restructure and improve. It was there I met the formidable Linda Hall de González. She was sipping a glass of cava while typing at an astonishing speed. She glanced up, arched an eyebrow, and returned to her work, muttering something in Spanish that I knew wasn’t complimentary, even as an ignorant Guiri.

For the first few days, we circled each other like two shecats, testing the waters. But later that week, she realised I was serious about overhauling the paper, regardless of the hours it would take. That led to a long meal of Spanish tapas, plenty of wine, and a friendship that has endured nearly three decades. From that moment, I knew Linda was someone I could rely on - and she never let me down.

ten skipping meals to ensure that no stray cat in her vicinity went hungry.

For years, Linda worked tirelessly for Euro Weekly News. As she entered her seventh decade, she remained one of the most dedicated members of the writing team, a walking encyclopedia of knowledge.

Linda came to Benidorm as a pioneering tourist, fell in love with a local artist, Andres, and never looked back. She embraced Spanish culture and language, using her journalistic talents to write for various Spanish and English publications. One of her proudest accomplishments was the invaluable book ‘Expand Your Spanish’, a must-read even today.

Always abreast of the political landscape in Spain, Linda wasn’t afraid to voice her opinions. Her insight made her a regular on local TV and radio, making her one of the most recognised foreign journalists in the region.

Beyond her career, Linda and Andres devoted themselves to their daughter, Alicia. But Linda’s love extended beyond her family; she had a passion for animals, of-

As she approached her eighth decade, she turned her focus toward the paper’s financial and European sections - topics she didn’t particularly love, but ones she mastered. Her commitment to excellence made her an indispensable pillar of Euro Weekly News

Now, on March 27, 2025, Linda is packing away her pen and retiring. Will we miss her? Absolutely. Is she one of the company’s fundamental cornerstones? Without a doubt. Will we ever find another Linda? Most definitely not.

So, instead of saying ‘adios’, we say ‘hasta luego’, knowing she’ll still be cycling the pathways of Valencia, embracing life with the same spirit. Tears will be shed, but more than anything, there will be gratitude - for who she is, what she has done, and what she has given to us all.

Linda Hall de González, you have written your own story on your terms - a force incredible, a woman unmatched.

Flooding and sinkhole in Jönköping

A MAJOR water main burst in central Jönköping on March 24, leading to extensive ooding, property damage, and the formation of a large sinkhole on Södra Strandgatan.

Thousands of households temporarily lost access to water as emergency services tackled the situation.

According to SVT Nyheter, the leak began just before lunchtime when one of the city’s largest water mains ruptured. “It’s one of our largest main pipes that has broken, so enormous amounts of water have owed out,” said Roger Rohdin, head of the water and sanitation department at Jönköping Municipality.

As a result, several thousand residents were left without water. The street Södra Strandgatan was closed to tra c, and Jönköping County’s pu-

blic buses had to be diverted.

Large amounts of water ooded several shops, restaurants, and homes along Södra Strandgatan. Fire crews and suction trucks worked throughout the afternoon to pump out the water from ooded interiors.

A sinkhole about 10 metres deep formed at the site, raising serious safety concerns. “It is a

heavy pipe that is broken and that is where the leak occurred and this large sinkhole appeared,” said Mikael Döbel, duty o cer at the local rescue service, speaking to Göteborgs-Posten.

The municipality conrmed that parts of Södra Strandgatan were now structurally compromised. Rohdin stated, “You can’t go there, there’s a risk of falling through.”

Buried millions

A Fond Farewell to Linda Hall de González: A Journalist, A Trailblazer, A Friend Thank you!

PORTUGAL’S central bank says millions of euros have been lost as a result of people burying cash or hiding it in unsafe places, with thousands of ruined banknotes flooding in each year for exchange.

Since 2014, the Bank of Portugal has replaced more than 317,000 damaged notes worth €13.8 million, many destroyed after being hidden underground.

Many in Portugal still prefer to stash cash at home, with common hiding spots including mattresses, safes, and even gardens, leading to millions in damaged notes recovered by the Bank of Portugal.

“Most notes are ruined by humidity,” explained José Luís Ferreira, who heads the bank’s cash operations. “Insects, moisture and time take a toll.” While burying money is common, other bizarre hiding spots include fireplaces, microwaves and even septic tanks. The surge is partly driven by a pandemic-era ha-

bit of hoarding cash, with 2024 seeing the highest figure in a decade: over 40,000 notes worth €1.7 million. Wildfires have also played a role. In 2018, after Portugal’s devastating 2017 fires, more than 32,000 notes were exchanged. One sawmill owner reportedly lost €40,000 when flames destroyed a safe. To qualify for a refund, over half of the note must be intact and verifiable. Ferreira warns that sophisticated forgeries sometimes sneak through, but advanced technology helps detect fakes. The Bank of Portugal continues to caution against storing cash at home, urging people to rethink old habits. “People still believe it’s safer underground,” Ferreira said, “but the risk is real.”

Overview of Jönköping.

What’s in a name?

PEOPLE have been left surprised after discovering the true meaning behind the name ‘Hobnobs’, a beloved biscuit brand that has been a UK favourite since the mid-1980s.

Despite being a hit with biscuit lovers for decades, many fans took to social media to say they have never thought much about what the name actually means.

Launched by McVitie’s, Hobnobs quickly became a bestseller, and in 1987, a chocolate version was introduced. But while they’ve been enjoyed by many, it turns out the name ‘Hobnobs’ has a deeper meaning.

The verb ‘to hobnob’ refers to spending time with someone important or famous in a friendly, social way. This aligns with McVitie’s vision of promoting their biscuits as a treat for families to enjoy together.

This revelation follows a wave of surprise on so-

Dog cruelty arrest

cial media, where people recently discovered the backstory behind another iconic brand, SPAM. Created by Hormel Foods in 1937, SPAM was made to increase the sales of pork shoulder, a cut that wasn’t popular.

Interestingly, despite many thinking SPAM is an acronym, it’s actually a portmanteau (a word made by combining two

SPAM

others). While some believed it stood for ‘spiced ham’, the real origin of the name remains a mystery known only to a select few at Hormel Foods.

In fact, Hormel even jokingly says that the meaning of SPAM is one of those timeless questions, like ‘Is there intelligent life beyond Earth?’ and it’s a secret that may never be fully uncovered.

Fresh beats

FOR the past 27 years, the Vegetable Orchestra from Vienna, Austria, has been making music with fresh vegetables.

Comprising 11 musicians, they prepare for their concerts by carving out carrots and celery, peeling onions, cutting aubergines, and arranging piles of produce on stage to produce unique sounds. Over their long history, they’ve performed 344 concerts, setting a record for the most shows by a vegetable orchestra.

“We believe we can create sounds that other instruments can’t easily produce. You can hear the difference, it sometimes resembles animals or abstract noises,” says the Orchestra. They aim to

bring out the hidden sounds within vegetables during their performances.

Beyond having fun, their music, dubbed ‘vegetable-style’, aims to show that music can come from unexpected places, even the supermarket.

“Almost anything can be turned into music; each item has its own distinct sound qualities and represents a rich universe of sound,” they explain. During performances, they buy fresh vegetables on the day and showcase how the sounds evolve under stage lights. Unused vegetables are turned into soup for the audience or distributed for others to experiment with, emphasising sustainability.

A WOMAN has been arrested in Alicante after admitting to throwing her two Yorkshire terriers off an eighth-floor balcony, reportedly because she was ‘fed up’ with walking them. The disturbing incident happened on Sunday March 23 in the Albufereta district, shocking both locals and animal welfare groups. Passers-by on Calle Sol Naciente alerted emergency services after witnessing the dogs fall.

Initially, they mistook the first impact for a toy before seeing additional objects hurled from the balcony - including a dog bed and a leash - followed by the second dog. Police were able to trace the owner using microchips implanted in the animals and located

the 53-year-old woman inside her nearby apartment. According to official reports, she confessed to police, stating she was “tired of always being the one to walk the dogs.” Her husband, who was present at the time, corroborated her statement. The woman was arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty, and the deceased animals were collected by the Alicante Animal Protection Society. Residents claim this isn’t an isolated case, reporting that other objects, and allegedly turtles, were also thrown from the same apartment in recent days. Police are now investigating the wider claims. The case has sparked public outrage, with social media users calling for tougher punishments for animal abuse.

Image:

/ Facebook

SPAM is a word made by combining two others.

Credit : Shutterstock, Anna Vasiljeva

A Yorkshire Terrier, similar to the two dogs tragically killed in the Alicante incident.

THE European Commission is currently scrutinising the Star Stable online game, created by Swedish company Star Stable Entertainment

The game defines itself as ‘a magical online world full of horses, friendship, mystery and adventure’ but players are at an advantage if they spend real money to acquire ‘star coin’ currency.

Consumer watchdog Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC Network) is probing the game’s alleged unfair practices, following a complaint from the Swedish Consumers’ Association.

These violated European Union consumer protection laws, the association said, citing pressure to buy through advertisements, lack of transparency in transactions, and using influencers to promote products to children.

After Star Stable Entertainment was asked to provide information regarding the game, the CPC Network’s assessment of

Play the game

the company’s answers identified the same practices cited by the Swedish Consumers’ Association.

The company must now send a written reply addressing the issues highlighted by the CPC Network and setting out proposals for remedying shortcomings.

On March 21, the CPC Network, coordinated by the European Commission, published guidelines directed at promoting transparency and fairness in the online gaming in-

dustry’s use of virtual currencies. The regulations highlighted the need to respect consumer vulnerabilities, particularly those of children.

“Children spend a lot of time online, gaming and interacting on social media,” said Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection

“It is crucial to ensure a safe online environment for consumers, especially children.”

Your VOICE

If you had the money, would you buy a Tesla?

TESLA is currently facing some serious challenges. Elon Musk, the man behind the brand, has been under fire recently for his lack of focus on Tesla due to his other projects and political engagements, and investors are getting frustrated.

Musk’s controversial opinions, including his support of far-right movements in Europe, have also made it harder for customers to separate the product from the man, which can be seen in the recent drop in Tesla’s stock price and in the rise of sales of bumper stickers that say, ‘I bought this before Elon went crazy’.

Despite all these issues, Tesla still has a lot of appeal. Many buyers are still drawn to the brand for its innovative cars, safety features, and the environmentally friendly appeal of driving an EV. So, with all this uncertainty around the company and its CEO, would you still consider buying a Tesla?

John Trueman voices a strong opinion, “Bankrupt him!”

Emma Monks raises concerns, noting that, apart from “the brand toxicity,” there are significant safety issues: “Tesla models are topping research studies globally (including the US) for being the faultiest cars on the market... There are any number of good, and cheaper, EVs to choose from without having to resort to a Swastikar.”

Angela Edgley, meanwhile, questions the environmental impact, saying, “No. Can’t see how using an electric car can ‘save the planet’. Plus, although difficult living in Spain, we are doing our best to boycott anything ‘US’.”

Bor Dinjo asserts, “It’s not a question of money; it’s a question of insanity - only mentally disabled would buy any EV no matter what.” Colin Wheeler adds, “I wouldn’t have an electric car as a gift!”

On the other side of the debate, Marc Ireland is a strong advocate, stating, “Yup, always. Fantastic car. Best EV around. Will buy another soon.”

David Cooke has a more political angle, writing, “Yes... Just to piss off the lefties!”

Meanwhile, Brian Clarke has his own reasons for not purchasing a Tesla: “Even if Elon wasn’t such an obnoxious character, I still wouldn’t buy one. I simply don’t like the ride...”

In conclusion, while some are still in favour of buying a Tesla, the overwhelming majority say they would not. For some the issue lies with Musk, while for others, the reluctance stems from disinterest in EVs. It seems that, despite Tesla’s innovative technology, many remain unconvinced about the brand and the shift to EVs.

EUROPEAN COMMISSION: Brussels probes children’s online games.

Eggstortionate

THE cost of a dozen medium-sized eggs has jumped 25 per cent in just two weeks, with category M eggs - typically the cheapest - rising from €2.60 to more than €3.25 in Spanish supermarkets. This sudden spike, follows price hikes in olive oil, sugar, co ee, and chocolate, hitting a dietary staple known for stable pricing across stores.

The increase varies by type: basic size M and free-range eggs have risen more sharply than

free-range chicken or organic varieties, though all categories are a ected. In contrast, size L eggs, previously €2.80, have also climbed but less dramatically.

Multiple factors drive this surge. In the US, avian in uenza outbreaks have led to the slaughter of millions of chickens, cutting supply and boosting egg exports from countries like Spain. This reduces local stock, pushing prices up. In Europe, fears of bird u

spreading - though Spain remains una ected - have sparked stricter controls and higher production costs. Social media amplifying these concerns has fuelled a collective panic, further pressuring markets.

Consumers can do little but wait it out. Experts suggest staying calm, riding out the storm, noting that global trade shifts, like the potential US tari s on luxury goods, might o set costs elsewhere.

Record wags

A GERMAN city set a new Guinness World Record by hosting a parade with nearly 900 dachshunds, also known as sausage dogs.

Regensburg, which is home to the Dackelmuseum (a museum dedicated to dachshunds), organised the world’s largest dachshund dog walk, called the Dackelparade. At least 897 dachshunds, along with their owners, participated in the event. Some estimates suggested there were as many as 1,175 dogs, but Guinness con rmed 897.

Seppi Küblbeck, who co-founded the Dackelmuseum with his husband, Oliver Storz, said the parade was meant to spread positivity throughout the community. He

Dachshunds on parade.

explained that “the dachshund isn’t political” and that for dachshunds, “all people are equal, regardless of skin colour or where they come from.”

Weird, wild & wacky

BEFORE travelling for your summer holidays, it’s important to know that each country and city has its own laws.

Some rules might be di erent from what you’re used to, and things that are ne at home might cause trouble in other places. Breaking these rules could result in nes or worse, even if the law seems unusual.

For example, in Venice, feeding pigeons in St Mark’s Square has been illegal since 2008 to protect buildings from damage. Tourists could face nes between €25 and €500 for feeding the birds.

In Germany, running out of petrol on the Autobahn can lead to a ne. It’s illegal to stop or slow down unnecessarily on certain roads, and running out of fuel is not an acceptable excuse.

In Sweden, drivers must have their

headlights on at all times, even during the day, to ensure better visibility, especially in winter.

In Spain, particularly in Benidorm and Tenerife, building large sandcastles is illegal to keep the beaches natural. You could be ned £130 for making big sand structures.

In Switzerland, particularly in the Alps, naked hiking is banned in some areas. The law was introduced in 2009 after locals complained about nudist hikers. While public nudity isn’t entirely illegal, authorities can ne those hiking without clothes.

In Milan, Italy, there’s an old law from the Austro-Hungarian empire that supposedly makes it a crime to frown, except at funerals or hospitals. Though it’s not enforced today, it’s still something to consider.

Do you know what it Tuk?

MOMENTS

BY NICOLE KING MARBELLA

THIS week I’d like to share my pride and joy for my colleague Hannah Murray and the charity adventure to India from which she has just returned.

Together with 53 other women, most of them entrepreneurs from the UK, she shared an epic undertaking of travelling 1,200km by Tuk Tuk from Chennai to Goa. The objective was to help raise funds for local women in India, from helping girls go to school, to learning new skills, as well as supporting new mums with postpartum care.

They can certainly feel well proud of themselves and not just for having raised an outstanding £120,000 but for having pushed their limits, both physically and emotionally, to do so.

Such a change for all these ladies from their usual day to day, starting o with learning to drive a motorised Tuk Tuk in just half an hour before venturing out into the city madness of beeping horns and lorries coming at you head on. Hannah commented that they were advised that in India there isn’t a rule to drive on the right nor the left side,

It’s a Goa!

merely steer towards a space wherever there is room to t. It obviously worked as all women have returned safely!

The locals were exceedingly friendly and helpful, assisting in Tuk Tuk repairs amongst other gallantries. Lunch, breakfast and dinner were curry, not much surprise there, rather spicier than usual but no tummy troubles along the way, so that was another plus.

I wondered whether Hannah was feeling an ‘anti-climax’ upon her return but apparently the group camaraderie continues through their WhatsApp group and the next adventure is being planned!

If you knew what it ‘Tuk’ - would you have gone?

No sandcastles on the beach.

Image: Dackelmuseum Moni, Blümchen & Klein-Seppi / Facebook

Worth it

GERMANY IRELAND

A REVIEW of 80,000 international students by the Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) found they had paid approximately €15.5 billion in taxes and fees by the time they graduated. This more than compensated for the money they cost the state, DAAD said, adding that the students were “an economic asset.”

Cutting costs

DEUTSCHE BANK, Germany’s largest lender, will axe approximately 2,000 jobs and close several of its high street branches, chief executive Christian Sewing announced on March 19. “Where we have to turn around the ship from a profitability point of view is clearly in retail personal banking,” Sewing said.

PORTUGAL

To the brim

AFTER the Algarve’s recent heavy rains, water is being released from the Beliche and Odeleite dams as they reach historically high capacity. The Castro Marim authorities said the carefully-controlled discharges would be timed to coincide with low tide to ensure the stability of the Guadiana as it reached the sea.

Asterix visit

THE latest Asterix album, which is due to be published next October, will be called Asterix in Lusitania. The Gallic warrior, assisted by sidekick Obelix, visits Portugal at the request of Bitovamess and Undaduress who want help in expelling the Romans who are besieging their part of the Iberian Peninsula.

NORWAY

Travel plans

AS people start thinking about summer holidays, applications to obtain or renew passports have shot up. On March 17 regional passport official Torill Sorte revealed that in some localities all appointments up to June were taken but reassured applicants by explaining that new slots were released on Friday each week.

Sea change

STALE ULRIKSEN, a researcher at the Norwegian Defence University College pointed out that China now supplies 45 per cent of Norway’s foreign-built ships and was a potential security risk to a country that was so dependent on the sea. “We have to take this seriously,” he warned the Dagens Næringsliv newspaper.

EURO PRESS

Dearer dairy

IRELAND’S dairy cows yield more than eight billion litres of milk each year, but the country’s dairy farmers said they can no longer cope with the major increase in their production costs.

They warned that consumers would need to get used to the idea that milk, cheese and butter were going to cost more.

FRANCE DENMARK

Special day

Top 40

No breeze

Photo credit: Pixabay/Christina and Peter

SALES for France’s 40 leading companies listed on the CAC 40 stock market index totalled €1.6 trillion in 2024, an increase of almost 50 per cent compared with 10 years ago. Its current operating margin has risen from an average 9.3 per cent between 2015 and 2019 to 13.1 per cent in 2023, auditors EY said.

Less meat

DAIRY PRODUCTS: Rising farmers’ costs mean they will cost more.

PRINCESS ISABELLA celebrates her 18th birthday on April 21 and Denmark’s young will have the opportunity of taking part in a draw entitling them to attend special events in Copenhagen and Aarhus. Invitations to participate in the lottery will be sent to 11,006 over-17s in Aarhus and 1,000 in Copenhagen.

PLANS to install an offshore windfarm in the North Sea have fallen through after the Danish government put the project out to tender without receiving a single bid. Analysts engaged by the Energy Agency concluded that investors were put off by the huge costs involved and uncertainty surrounding future revenues.

ITALY

Babe in arms

TURIN police arrested four Moroccans who tried to enter Italy with a newborn baby hidden in a shopping bag. The child, whose mother allegedly handed her over to be sold, had health problems owing to the way she had been carried, but was immediately admitted to hospital where she since recovered in hospital.

Cricket test

MONTECASSIANO-based Nutrinsesct, which breeds crickets for transformation into a flour that is used for pet food, is giving classes on how to farm the insects. Nutrisect’s chief executive Jose Francesco Cianni explained that the firm wished to pass on its expertise with the aim of creating 100 farms across Italy.

THE third edition of the Climate Action Network (RAC) biennial report on meat consumption showed that 53 per cent of respondents had eaten less over the last three years. The RAC also found that their motives included the need to economise, health, the environment and concerns for animal welfare.

FINLAND SWEDEN

Cruel nature

ROUGHLY 60 per cent of the reindeer calves belonging to two Sami communities in northern Sweden died following late snow which prevented herds from being moved to safer forest areas. Instead, they remained in the mountains where they were less protected from predators, including rapacious golden eagles.

No thanks

BRAND researchers from Lund University have established that approximately one in five Swedes aged between 18 and 64 are choosing not to buy US products. Twenty per cent of those who had bought Coca Cola in the last 12 months said they would boycott the drink in favour of a Swedish or European alternative.

NETHERLANDS

Not peachy

THE local council in Urk decided to use peach stones to fill the sandpit at a children’s playground, believing that this would be a suitable and sustainable alternative. Instead the stones had to be removed because they were strewn all over the play area and the children admitted using them to pelt each other.

Cabinet doubts

LESS than nine months after the creation of the Netherlands’ four-party coalition, only one in six voters is happy with the Cabinet, a RTL Nieuws poll found. Right-wing-liberal VVD party supporters were the most critical and 50 per cent said they wanted an alliance with the socialist opposition party next time round.

Gender gap

FINNISH males with higher education qualifications who return after working abroad earn better salaries than peers who never leave the country, the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health said. This advantage did not extend to women, who faced far more challenges when re-entering the employment market.

Take it back

FINNS returned 2.3 billion bottles and drinks cans in 2024, which was 130 million more than in 2023 and confirmed the bottle-return system as one of the most effective in the world. A total of 1.5 billion aluminium cans were handed in last year as well as 700 million plastic bottles and 130 million glass bottles.

BELGIUM

Pet saviours

GHENT UNIVERSITY is looking for the owners of pets who discovered that they were ill or pregnant thanks to the behaviour of their cat, dog or horse. Researchers want to analyse their stories to establish whether animals who are close to humans can in fact sense when something is wrong with them.

Sewer clue

THE European Drugs Agency (EDA) said that analyses of the wastewater of 68.8 million people living in 128 European cities over three months last year showed that Antwerp had the highest concentration of cocaine. Worldwide, Antwerp was ranked fifth for cocaine after several cities in South America.

Nestlé downsizing

NESTLÉ has announced a significant downsizing of its operations in Germany, with plans to close its Neuss plant by mid-2026 and sell its Conow facility in early 2026.

The downsizing will impact approximately 225 employees and comes as Nestlé faces what it calls ‘overcapacity’ and increasing ‘price sensitivity’ among consumers.

The Neuss plant, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, currently employs around 145 people and produces Thomy-branded products such as oil, mayonnaise, and mustard.

“This was a difficult decision, which we made after intensive examination and consideration of the overall situation,” said Fabrice Johan, chief technology officer for Nestlé in Germany. “Now it’s time to take responsibility for the employees on site and create pros-

pects for them.”

Nestlé plans to relocate production of Thomy oils to external partners elsewhere in Europe. Glass and plastic bottle production will also be shifted to other European sites. However, tube production for mayonnaise and mustard will be moved to the Lüdinghausen site, where 30 new jobs will be created.

Despite the downsizing, the company says nearly 80 per cent of Thomy products will continue to be made in Germany. The Conow facility in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, which employs around 80 people, is also being divested. The plant manufactures items for Maggi and Garden Gourmet. According to Reuters, Nestlé is in ‘intensive negotiations’ with an unnamed German company to sell the plant, including the current workforce.

London investment

NORWAY’S Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, has acquired a 25 per cent stake in London’s Covent Garden estate for £570 million (€680 million).

Currently managing nearly €184 trillion in assets and owning 1.5 per cent of globally listed companies, NBIM has just partnered with Shaftesbury Capital, the London district’s landlord, for the deal, which values the estate at €3.22 billion.

Covent Garden, a hip, thronging hub of shopping, dining, and culture, spans shops, offices, and residential spaces, with a quarter of its land set aside for the latter two.

Famous for landmarks like Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard, it hosts brands such as Apple, Chanel, and newcomers like Diptyque and Charlotte Til-

bury. The investment tags onto a significant surge in luxury retail demand, which has recently hit record levels over the past few years, according to UK Sotheby’s International Realty.

Historically, Covent Garden was a fruit and vegetable market following London’s 1666 fire, but now it anchors the West End and opera scene, though it lost nearly a quarter of its value during the Covid-19 pandemic. Recovery has since fuelled Shaftesbury’s growth in the prime property market. NBIM’s Jayesh Patel, head of UK real estate, called Covent Garden a ‘world-renowned retail, leisure, and cultural destination’, which complements the fund’s West End holdings.

Nestlé, Frankfurt.

Credit: Shutterstock, Markus Mainka

London’s perennially hip Covent Garden.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Ikea opening

AFTER an 18-month delay, Ikea announced that its centre in London’s Oxford Street opens on May 1. The furniture and household goods retailer will occupy three floors of the former Topshop flagship store featuring showrooms and one-to-one design consultations as well as a Swedish deli with seating for 130.

In safe hands

CRITERIACAIXA named former vice-president and Economy minister Elena Salgado as its representative on the board of French company, Veolia. The Caixa Foundation’s holding company recently paid approximately €1 bn for a 5.5 per cent stake in the group which also owns Spanish water utility, Grupo Agbar.

Takeover perk

NATIONWIDE paid a surprise £50 (€59.62) bonus to 12 million members who had a savings account, current account or mortgage at end September 2024. Debbie Crosbie, the building society’s chief executive, said the payment was recognition of the successful £2.9bn (€3.4 bn) Virgin Money takeover.

Simple sums

COCA COLA’S Spanish executive vice-president Manuel Arroyo received $13.08 million (€12m) in 2024, making him second-highest paid after James Quincey, chief executive and chairman who received $28m (€25.7m). Arroyo also owns 848,310 Coca Cola shares including 650,554 stock options.

Widening scope

ASTRAZENECA is paying £773 million (€921.698 million) for EsoBiotec, a privately-held Belgian company specialising in cancer immunotherapies. This was the latest in a series of acquisitions byAstraZeneca, valued at £184 billion (€219.4 billion) and the UK’s largest listed company, which continues to expand globally.

STAT OF WEEK

€100 billion

in assets for Berlin-based online bank Trade Republic, which operates throughout Europe, received Bank of Spain authorisation to open a branch with an international bank account number (IBAN).

Santander wields the axe

Linda Hall

SANTANDER UK is closing 95 of its 444 branches, the Spanish multinational announced on March 19.

The move will affect 750 employees although the bank announced in January that it had no plans for permanent closures during 2025.

Following closures beginning in June, Santander will have 290 full-service branches with another 18 becoming ‘counter-free’ and 36 reducing their opening hours.

There will also be five Work Cafe hubs with co-working space, super-rapid internet and facilities for events that the bank is launching globally.

“Closing a branch is always a very difficult decision,” a Santander spokesperson said. “We spend a great deal of time assessing where and when we do this and how to minimise the impact it may have on our customers.”

Santander UK, which posted a

THE National High Court in Madrid ruled in favour of Spanish companies claiming more than €100 million in tax breaks after investing in Hollywood productions.

38 per cent reduction in pre-tax profits of £1.33 billion (€1.6 billion) for 2024, scotched rumours in January that the bank was planning to leave Britain.

“We love the UK,” chairwoman Ana Botin declared at the time. “It’s a co-market and will remain a co-market for Santander. Full stop.”

But in a Bloomberg TV interview on March 18, Botin said the bank

was in a position to be able to “shift resources away” from lower-performing units and did not need to sell them.

Santander would prioritise the US and Latin America, she continued. “We continue to have a big business in Europe, we see a lot of potential over the next few years in Europe. But our focus will continue to be more on the Americas.”

Hollywood defeats Hacienda

Ten years ago, attracted by tax incentives, Banco Santander, Bankinter, Mediaset, MasMovil, Air Europa, and Tous Jewellers amongst others put money into Economic Interest Groups (IEAs) led by big American companies and Spanish producers. Films financed this way

included Fast and Furious VI, where Spanish bac-

On the up City float

JAMES DAUNT, managing director of Waterstones, recently raised hopes of a City listing for the UK bookshop chain.

Talking to the media, Daunt, who is the founder of Daunt books and chief executive of the US bookseller Barnes & Noble, said he believed London would be a good location for a Waterstones float. Private equity firm Elliott acquired Waterstones for an undisclosed sum in 2018 but, as Daunt pointed out, “at some point in the near future, it will look to cash in its chips.”

SPAIN’S two biggest retailers, Inditex and Mercadona, have continued to swell their earnings from investments.

By the end of 2024, when both posted record sales and profits, they had made the most of their enviable liquidity by taking advantage of high interest rates.

The Zara-owner’s cash flow was its lowest since 2011 as it stepped up investments that earned the company €442 million in 2024, an increase of 16.3 per cent on 2023. Mercadona’s investment income grew by 90 per cent to €180.5 million.

Compared with 2021 when interest rates were still negative, Inditex’s earnings from its investments were 111 times higher, while those of Mercadona had multiplied by 164.

A £225 MILLION (€268.3 million) grant could convert Grangemouth into a plant processing pine timber into biofuel, chemicals or cosmetics. Scotland’s only remaining oil refinery will be shut down this summer by owners who include Sir Jim Ratcliffe, bringing with it the loss of 500 direct jobs and 2,500 jobs in related industries.

The UK government pledged earlier that it would allocate £200 million (€238.4 million) to finding a new, low-carbon use for the plant, with the Scottish government providing another £25 million (€29.8 million).

kers reclaimed more than €63 million, and Ridley Scott’s Exodus, filmed in Tabernas (Almeria) which has asked for at least €34 million.

By 2017, Spain’s Tax Authority decided the IEAs involved were not exclusively aimed at film production and eventually barred investing companies from putting in for rebates.

Slow but sure

GALICIA-BASED fashion and accessories company Bimba y Lola, whose fiscal year concluded on February 28, posted a €234 million turnover for 2024

This returned the company to its pre-pandemic figures and was also the first time that the company outstripped its 2019 sales.

A company statement referred to a ‘positive business evolution’ both nationally and internationally but although 2024 set a record, Bimba y Lola has reported comparatively modest growth over the past three years, analysts said.

Sales grew by 2.5 per cent in 2022, dipping to 2.25 per cent in 2024, picking up to 3 per cent last year.

INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES GROUP (IAG) is seeking €1 billion in financing for 26 new aeroplanes in 2025.

This will also help to meet some of the cost of 19 aircraft that the Madrid-registered group, which owns British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling, acquired last year. The new fleet includes 10 Airbus A321 XLR aircraft plus two wide-fuselage planes, all of which will cover long-haul flights.

In all, IAG will spend €11.4 billion on 171 new planes between now and 2029.

THAMES WATER avoided temporary nationalisation and may use a £3 billion (€3.6 billion) loan to keep afloat in coming months.

The Court of Appeal ruled in favour of Thames Water, dismissing a challenge by Lib Dem MP, Charlie Maynard and a group of Thames Water creditors. The company has debts of £19 billion (€22.6 billion) and said that without the loan it would run out of cash by March 24.

RIDLEY SCOTT: Spanish companies invested in 2014 film, Exodus.

Photo credit: CC/Gage Skidmore

SANTANDER UK: Plans to close 95 of bank’s 444 branches.

3I Group 3.750,00 3.759,00 3.675,00 645,09K

Group 2.946,0 2.952,0 2.915,0 164,75K Airtel Africa 160,80 161,30 159,30 852,75K

American 2.289,5 2.305,5 2.265,5 1,03M

British Foods 1.918,5 1.925,0 1.900,5 549,68K

791,66K

295,35 301,85 294,20 14,23M

Redrow 422,08 428,00 420,40 1,08M

Beazley 865,50 866,00 854,50 551,54K Berkeley 3.644,0 3.654,0 3.616,0 107,77K BP 447,60 448,95 445,10 11,99M

1,12M

163,57 164,45 161,30 5,2M

2.976,0 2.980,0 2.942,0 256,94K

Entertainment 18.490,0 18.580,0 18.330,0 29,19K

642,50 647,50 636,50 71,25K

928,50 929,50 915,50 193,84K

Inditex pays

EXECUTIVES working for Inditex all benefited from the fashion chain’s good results, starting with chief executive Oscar Garcia Maceiras who received €11.2 million last year. The group’s second echelon executives also did well, earning an average annual wage of €5 million in 2024.

Big guns

DEFENCE group Babcock International joined the FTSE 100 index on March 24 following a 50 per cent increase in its share price this year. The company, which maintains Britain’s nuclear submarines, is now valued at £3.8 billion (€4.5 billion).

Merger in the offing

ACCORDING to the UK media, plans for a merger between ITV and the All3Media production company are making progress.

The transaction revealed by the Daily Mail is said to be ‘far from certain’, but if it were to go ahead, both parties would create a new company and float it on the London Stock Exchange.

Nevertheless, the first hints of a possible ITV-All3Media deal were heard in January when Reuters quoted two people ‘with

Call to arms

SIX companies will be vying for Spain’s defence and arms contracts as the government ups its spending on defence.

Airbus, Indra, Navantia, Santa Barbara, ITP Areo and Italy’s SAPA Group already account for 80 per cent of spending, ending 2023 with consolidated revenues of €13.9 billion between them.

According to the company’s calculations, this should increase annually to €4

billion as Spain commits to increasing its Nato contributions to 2 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product (PIB) by 2029.

These six are the only companies capable of absorbing Spain’s defence spending, which will increase from the present €17.5 billion per year – 1.32 per cent of the PIB – to more than €36.5 billion.

knowledge of the situation.’

The merger would create one of Europe’s largest production groups, with revenues of approximately £3.176 billion (€3.8 billion) based on the companies’ 2023 figures.

Two years ago, ITV had considered buying All3Media for £1 billion (€1.9 billion) but was outbid by Emirati-backed RedBird IMI’s £1.15 billion (€1.4 billion) offer.

Carolyn McCall, ITV’s chief executive, has since been talking to the owners of London-based All3Media. Headed by former CNN president Jeff Zucker, it is behind popular series including The Traitors, Call the Midwife and Gogglebox.

Meanwhile, recent contacts have progressed ‘to a very detailed level’ the Daily Mail’s sources said.

ITV shares rose 1.1 per cent to 77.83 (€9.26) on March 17, giving the company a £2.92 billion (€3.5 billion) market capitalisation.

Changed habits

CEREAL PARTNERS UK & IRELAND, which makes Shreddies, Cookie Crisp and Nesquik, is preparing to close its Merseyside factory, involving the loss of 300 jobs, and move production to Staverton (Wiltshire). The company, which will no longer produce own-label cereals for supermarkets, blamed stiff competition and the changing eating habits of the British who now prefer protein-heavy breakfasts.

A SURVEY by the Foundation of Studies for Applied Economics (Fedea) revealed that 70 per cent of the jobs that were created in Andalucia, Valencia, Catalonia and Madrid since the pandemic went to over-50s. Nationwide, Fedea also found that foreign residents or those with double nationality occupied 75 per cent of the new jobs.

CAROLYN McCALL: Reportedly discussing an ITV-All3Media deal.

Deserved a mention

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I SUPPOSE, as a singer and scribbler, I shouldn’t get the hump when I feel I’ve received the dodgy end of the stick from those who follow in the same professions.

Over many years in ‘Show biz’, I have both seen and experienced, someone pinching an idea, or claiming to be the originator of some money-making scheme, or melody that was not truly hatched from their own creative prerogative. Andrew Lloyd Webber was the first I actually came across. Although highly talented, he was once accused of nicking large bits of his hits from classical music of the past. When I sang one of my personal compositions to a member of Wayne Fontana’s group ‘The Mindbenders’, I later discovered that a part of one of their biggest hits ‘Groovy Kind of Love ‘matched my ‘Wonderland of Love’ almost exactly! It’s all a part of the game and does in fact go on all the time. Last week however I did receive a true pang of

discontent, when I watched the TV documentary about the wonderful history of ‘Porridge’, which became one of the biggest successes in TV series history. Shortly after my release from prison, I was visited by an old friend Ed ‘Stewpot’ Stewart. Ed was a very successful DJ and TV artist and was also the goalie in the Showbiz Eleven, the charity team I was a member of during many a hair-raising outing on weekends. I was of course delighted to see both him and the friend who accompanied him.

Although I had never met his companion Ian, I found him pleasant enough and as one does, was soon supping the brandy and regaling them both with often extremely humourist stories of my term behind the high walls of incarceration.

One had occurred when I successfully managed to get the guvnor of a semi open, which actually sported a football pitch, to allow me to invite the Showbiz Eleven team to play the POs and inmates one Sunday afternoon! After Ed’s visit, his companion amicably enquired, that as he would be nearby the following week, could he perhaps drop in again?

To cut a long one short, he subsequently dropped in some three or four following weekends. Not being present on a couple, I essentially suspected he had designs on my lovely wife Mary. He then dropped off of our radar altogether. The following year (1974) Porridge was launched on BBC TV! The very first edition depicted the Showbiz Eleven being invited to play against Ronnie Barker and his team of inmates in Slade prison. Some of you may even remember this truly hysterical first viewing. I actually quite understandably couldn’t quite believe it. All became totally clear however when I inspected the credits. The series had originated from the pens of Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais!

Ed’s friend Ian had picked the brains of yours truly, cleverly decided that no one had ever thought of featuring prison as the setting for a situation comedy and I suppose the rest is history. I just thought the ol’ boy should have deserved a mention somewhere; or perhaps even a shuffle on. Ah well.

Keep the faith, Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail .com

INTERVIEW

Amazon.ie has launched

AMAZON has officially launched Amazon.ie, its dedicated Irish online store.

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a reduced Amazon Prime subscription fee for Irish customers. Previously, Irish users subscribed to Amazon.co.uk, paying €11 per month. With the launch of Amazon.ie, the new Prime membership is now available for €6.99 per month or €69.90 annually. This includes access to fast and free One-Day Delivery, Prime Video, Prime Gaming, and exclusive discounts.

Amazon.ie aims to support Irish businesses, with over 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) already selling more than 5.5 million products on the platform, according to The Irish Independent. The company is also launching a ‘Brands of Ireland’ page featuring popular local brands.

Micheál Martin, Ireland’s Taoiseach, welcomed the launch, stating in a press release: “This expansion by Amazon will give consumers more choice and better value, as well as help small, medium, and large businesses across the country promote their own Irish and international products.”

Amazon employs around 6,500 people in Ireland. The company has invested more than €22 billion in the country since 2004, with €17 billion of that occurring since 2020.

Marianne Bahl (Denmark)

- Speaking European

A twist of fate brought Danish-born Marianne Bahl to Spain. Originally bound for Marseille, it was a detour that led her to the sun-soaked streets of Mojácar - and she hasn’t looked back since.

“I WAS actually going to Marseille in France but then life happened and destiny wanted me to end up in Mojacar.

“And I haven’t regretted it for a moment.”

Marianne quickly fell in love with the region’s climate, cuisine, and culture. “The warm weather, Spanish food, and afternoon siestas are wonderful,” she says. But it’s the people that truly won her over: “I love the Spaniards’ laid-back atti tude to life.”

Still, that same relaxed approach can sometimes test her patience. “The saying ‘If we don’t get it done today, we’ll do it tomorrow - or maybe the day after’ is charming… until it’s not!” she laughs.

Her advice for anyone thinking of making the move? “Patiencetons of it. Spanish bureaucracy moves at its own pace, and ‘frustrating’ doesn’t even begin to cover it.”

She also emphasises the importance of staying active. “Too much time and too little to do can pull you down fast. Keep yourself busy - it makes all the difference.”

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

Amazon office in Dublin.

Loving life in Mojácar.

Credit: Marianne Bahl.

Right time to buy property, Costa del Sol?

IS now the time to buy in Spain? Taylor Wimpey says ‘yes’ after experiencing its best year ever in 2024. It’s not just Europeans snapping up Spanish properties, Spain has a worldwide appeal. In 2024, Taylor Wimpey sold homes to buyers from 41 different nationalities.

Across Spain, house prices continue to rise. In February 2025 alone, prices on the Costa del Sol increased by 1.6 per cent.

By the end of 2024, Taylor Wimpey

Spain had acquired land for 3,196 homes, up from 2,866 the previous year, across the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Balearic Islands. The company is actively seeking more land to expand its presence.

With over 65 years of experience on the Spanish Mediterranean coast, Taylor Wimpey saw significant growth in sales, profits, and overall performance despite economic challenges, reinforcing the strength of the housing market.

In 2024, the developer handed the keys over to 504 homes, a sharp rise from 410 in 2023, driven by strong demand and the company’s ability to meet buyers’ needs. Revenue surged by 34 per cent to over €225 million, with the average home price increasing to €447,000 from €411,000 in 2023.

By the end of 2024, 491 homes were reserved for delivery in 2025 and 2026, closely matching the previous year’s 490, reflecting continued demand and

Gardening glory

THE Costa del Sol has a sub-desert Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers, mild winters, and occasional rain in spring and autumn. Not all plants thrive here, so careful selection is essential for successful gardening.

Palm trees are a defining feature of the landscape. Other well-suited trees include olive, mulberry, lemon, mimosa, fig, almond, and pomegranate. Aromatic plants such as thyme, lavender, rosemary, mint, sage, and oregano add fragrance and

culinary value, while enjoying the region’s sunlight.

For low-maintenance gardens, succulents and cacti like agave, aloe, sedum, and crassula are ideal. Colourful flowers such as daisies, bougainvillea, hibiscus, geraniums, and verbena brighten outdoor spaces. Instead of traditional grass, ground covers like thyme and sedum conserve water while maintaining a healthy look. Gravel is another practical option, reducing water loss and weed growth.

Trees provide shade, but

climbing plants like jasmine, honeysuckle, and wisteria can cover pergolas for extra protection and visual appeal. Cypress hedges offer privacy and year-round greenery. Windy and coastal areas require extra care, as soil dries out quickly. Windbreaks, sturdy plants, or lattice screens help protect delicate greenery. Wind-resistant plants like rosemary, hibiscus, lantana, bougainvillea, and lavender withstand harsh conditions, keeping gardens looking pretty despite the challenging climate.

confidence in the company’s developments.

Taylor Wimpey’s Managing Director, Juan Diego Menéndez, described 2024 as an “exceptional year” and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Looking ahead, the company plans to focus on acquiring more land, launching new projects, improving construction efficiency, increasing sales, and strengthening its reputation as a trusted homebuilder.

ESTEPONA’S real estate market is experiencing a significant upswing, with property prices reaching an average of €4,017 per square metre as of December 2024, marking a 16.54 per cent increase since January 2024. This surge is largely driven by international investors, who accounted for 90 per cent of luxury property transactions on the Costa del Sol in 2024.

In such a dynamic market, partnering with an experienced and reputable real estate agency is crucial. Melrose Properties, established in 1984, has been a cornerstone in Estepona’s property landscape for over four decades. Their deep-rooted presence and independent operation ensure clients receive personalised service tailored to individual needs.

Melrose Properties’ intimate knowledge of Estepona’s evolving market trends enables them to offer sound investment advice. Their extensive network and diverse property

A personalised service tailored to individual needs

portfolio cater to a wide range of client preferences, from luxury villas to charming townhouses. This adaptability

Outdoor evolution

ONE of the biggest shifts in home design over the last few years has been the transformation of outdoor spaces. Gardens and terraces were mainly decorative or used for recreation and are now seen as natural extensions of the interior.

The focus is on full integration with nature. This includes vertical gardens, plant-filled terraces, and outdoor furniture made from natural materials. Chalets and single-family homes are making use of functional outdoor gardens that go beyond aesthetics, incorpora-

ting dining areas, urban vegetable patches, and dedicated relaxation spaces. In flats, terraces are turning into small green havens with planters, modular furniture, and automatic irrigation systems.

Garden design in 2025 prioritises practicality, sustainability, and visual appeal. The same approach applies to facades, where natural materials like stone, wood, brick, and ceramics are commonly used for pathways, patios, walls, and furniture.

Vertical gardens and climbing plants are key

trends in outdoor decoration adding greenery, and creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Stone-clad walls, hanging planters, and green walls bring a refreshing, natural feel to exterior designs.

For garden furniture, modular and weather-resistant pieces are becoming the norm. Durable materials such as wrought iron, recycled wood, and waterproof fabrics ensure longevity while maintaining style and comfort. Outdoor spaces are now designed for year-round enjoyment.

is essential in navigating Estepona’s competitive real estate environment. Client testimonials highlight Melrose

Properties’ commitment to excellence. Their straightforward, professional advice and dedicated customer service have fostered long-term relationships, with clients repeatedly seeking their expertise for buying, selling, and renting properties.

In summary, as Estepona’s real estate market continues to flourish, aligning with a seasoned agency like Melrose Properties offers invaluable advantages. Their proven track record, local expertise, and client-centric approach make them an ideal partner for navigating the opportunities within this vibrant market.

• www.melrose-properties.com

Cool savings

SUMMER will soon be upon us and summer heat can drive up electricity bills, but simple changes can help. Using energy-efficient appliances, like ACs, fans, and refrigerators, saves power and money over time. Set your AC to 78°F for comfort without overuse. Fans improve airflow, making rooms

feel cooler. Keep AC filters clean for efficiency. Proper insulation, such as weatherstripping and attic insulation, keeps cool air inside.

In apartments, smart thermostats adjust temperatures based on habits, reducing waste. Avoid using ovens and dryers during peak heat; opt for microwaves or outdoor grilling instead. Open windows in the morning

Reducing hot water use also helps, lower the heater to 120°F, take shorter showers, and use low-flow

Going from strength to strength

AS part of Bromley Estates Marbella’s recent expansion plan, they launched new offices in the hot spots of Elviria (Marbella) and La Cala (Mijas). The expansion into these prime locations has been well received, reflecting the strategic decision to target high-demand areas. Given the positive reception and the growth potential in Elviria and La Cala, Bromley Estates Marbella are focusing on expanding their customer service teams as well as their sales force, further strengthening their presence in these areas.

In addition, the newly launched rental and property management division, which is in its infancy, is already experiencing tremendous activity levels, indicating a robust demand for rental properties and management services not only in the local areas but across the Costa del Sol. Prioritising the expansion efforts in Elviria and La Cala, along with developing the rental and property management services, aligns with the continued demand from clients globally and positions Bromley Es-

tates Marbella for continued success. The Costa del Sol (Malaga) is experiencing a peak in global popularity. “Malaga is, much more than sun and beach.” According to Forbes, this Mediterranean city meets several criteria including international schools, a good health system, and proximity to airports, the cost of housing, a low crime rate and a good quality of life.

Bromley Estates Marbella offers properties for sale from private vendors, national developers, and collaborating agents on the Costa del Sol. With their solid reputation built over the years, they have outpaced the overall sales trend on the coast by sourcing only the finest properties and new developments. The luxury property management division has given their customers further peace of mind by offering a service designed to provide an effortless experience by taking care of every aspect of property management from A to Z. Bromley Estates’ goal is to alleviate any worries or work for their clients whilst ensuring a healthy

return on investment through their rental management packages. “We are excited to offer this comprehensive service to our valued customers.”

As Hayley Bromley herself also confirmed; “This commitment helps our clients find their ideal property, whether for holiday homes, permanent residences, or investments. Our extensive experience allows us to identify projects that offer the best value for money, and now manage that property into becoming a lucrative investment.”

This commitment to excellence is also the reason that Bromley Estates Marbella’s Exclusive Development branch has gone from strength to strength, due to the fact that Spain’s most reputable developers put their trust in Bromley Estates to exclusively promote their off plan projects on the Costa del Sol.

Bromley Estates Marbella most certainly offers clients the full spectrum of real estate services and they do it with love!

Urbanización el Rosario, N-340, | km188, 29604 Marbella | 952 939 460 | +44208 068 7606 | info@bromleyestatesmarbella.com | bromleyestatesmarbella.com

The Power of Colour Pond perfection

CREATING a garden pond is a rewarding project. Start by marking the shape of your pond before you begin digging. The shape is less important than the depth, cleanliness of the water, and the edges.

Next, dig the pond to the appropriate depth. For a wildlife pond, avoid making it too deep. It’s better if half of the pond is shallow, with the deep area not exceeding 30 cm. For fish ponds, the common advice is to dig deeper, but for a wildlife pond, the shallow areas are where most of the pond life will thrive.

After shaping the pond, create shallow basins. These basins will provide spaces for creatures like tadpoles and increase the habitat available for wildlife, especially if your pond is small.

Once the shape is ready, it’s time to add the liner. It’s a good idea to lay a protective underlay beneath the liner to prevent sharp objects from damaging it. Lay down a double-thick layer of underlay before adding the rubber liner. After placing the liner, you can fill the pond with water. Let it fill naturally with rainwater or collect it in water butts, as tap water often contains chemicals and nutrients that can harm wildlife.

Once your pond is filled, it’s ready! Wildlife will likely start to visit soon. Plants will gradually find their way to the pond, but if you’re eager, you can add local plants.

THE living room is where we relax together. Artwork, sculptures,

Power smart

IMPROVING your home’s energy efficiency helps reduce energy use, lower electricity bills, and support a more sustainable environment. By understanding what energy efficiency means, you can take the right steps to make your home more efficient.

Energy efficiency means using less energy to perform the same tasks. A well-insulated home with efficient heating, cooling, and electrical systems minimises energy waste, leading to lower bills and a smaller environmental impact.

One way to improve energy efficiency is by ensuring your home is properly insulated. Good insulation keeps heat in during winter and out during summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling.

Replacing outdated appliances with modern, energy-efficient models also helps. Newer fridges, washing machines, and water heaters consume less energy, making a noticeable difference in overall consumption.

Switching to LED lighting is another simple and effective step. LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing electricity costs over time. Smart thermostats can also help by adjusting your home’s temperature based on your schedule, preventing unnecessary energy use.

Installing motion-sensing lights ensures that lights are only on when needed, and making the most of natural daylight by opening blinds during the day reduces the need for artificial lighting.

Black Onyx by Keller Williams: Your nearby and efficient real estate partner

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A Specialised team at your service

• Xabier Lizaso: Expert in buying and selling, Xabier offers strategic advice and concrete results. His experience ensures smooth and successful transactions.

• Daniel Cano: Your personal shopper, Daniel finds the ideal property, saving you time and effort. Daniel is dedicated to simplifying your search and presenting the best options.

• Miguel Palma: Specialist in transfers, Miguel manages operations with professionalism and discretion. He ensures an efficient and confidential process.

• Felipe Paris, Darío Azria, and Manuel Collado: Sales experts, they maximise the value of your property with effective strategies. These professionals focus on obtaining the best return for you.

• Alicia Iglesias: Personalised attention in every transaction, Alicia guides and supports both buyers and sellers. Alicia is committed to providing attentive and detailed service.

• Marina Banu: Office Manager, Marina ensures operational efficiency and a smooth experience. She coordinates operations for flawless service.

• Ángel Casado: Comprehensive after-sales services,

Ángel offers security, energy studies, and more. Ángel provides solutions for your peace of mind and wellbeing.

Direct approach and results

At Black Onyx by Keller Williams, we focus on what matters: your needs. We offer a clear, concise, and results-oriented service.

• Clear communication: Direct and transparent

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Your peace of mind is our goal

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Malaga, Spain’s new luxury property capital

MALAGA has firmly established itself as the province with the highest percentage of luxury properties in Spain, accounting for 30 per cent of the national offering of homes priced over €2.5 million.

This is according to the latest report from Lucas Fox, a leading company in the prime residential market. The luxury segment currently represents 10 per cent of Malaga’s total real estate offerings, which include new residential complexes such as Be Grand Limonar, La Térmica Beach or Malaga Towers.

Across Spain, Malaga Province outpaces other renowned luxury destinations. For example, Mallorca holds 27 per cent of the prime property market share, Madrid has 9 per cent, and Barcelona stands at 7 per cent. Other locations like Alicante, Ibiza, Girona, Cadiz, Tenerife, and Menorca contribute significantly less, with shares ranging from 1 per cent to 7 per cent.

A large proportion of high-net-worth individuals (57 per cent) purchase luxury properties in Malaga as second homes, followed by 29 per cent who buy them as their primary residence. Around 7 per cent of buyers are making the purchase as an investment. In terms of buyer origins, 64 per cent are from the European Union, while 21 per cent come from North America.

Malaga’s Costa del Sol is famous for its warm climate, beaches, and vibrant cultural and gastronomic offerings. However, the market faces a significant challenge: a shortage of new builds. This deficit has caused property prices to rise even more, with an average price increase of 5 per cent recorded in the first half of 2024.

Keeping it

Home decoration, both inside and out, has changed significantly over the past two decades.

COLOUR plays a key role in design, and in 2025, warmer, more natural tones are expected to dominate. Twenty years ago, cool and metallic shades like grey, silver, and bright white were popular. Now, people are embracing colours inspired by nature, such as terracotta, mustard, deep green, warm brown, and soft blue. These tones create a calming atmosphere and strengthen the connection with the outdoors, which has become more important than ever for well-being and relaxation.

green or dark blue, which pair well with organic materials.

Bedrooms often feature soft, welcoming shades like beige, warm grey, and terracotta on the walls. Living rooms benefit from earthy colours that promote a sense of tranquillity and harmony. Kitchens and bathrooms still lean towards neutral palettes but now include bolder accents, such as olive

The preference for natural materials remains strong in 2025, with an even wider variety being used indoors and outdoors. Unlike 20 years ago, when synthetic finishes and bulky furniture were common, today’s designs highlight the raw beauty of materials. Oak, walnut, and bamboo are widely used in flooring, furniture, and decorative pieces. Natural stone is also gaining popularity, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, where it complements rustic and organic finishes.

Textiles have also shifted towards sustainability. Linen and organic cotton are now favoured over synthetic fabrics, offering both eco-friendliness and superior texture.

The perfect pergola

A PERGOLA is a stylish outdoor structure made of vertical posts or pillars supporting cross-beams and an open lattice roof. Unlike gazebos, which are fully enclosed, pergolas typically have an open top. They can be decorated with climbing plants or fitted with covers for extra shade and protection.

When choosing a pergola, it’s important to consider the different styles and materials available. Wooden pergolas have a natural charm but need regular maintenance to prevent weather damage. Metal pergolas, made from aluminium or steel, offer high durability.

Vinyl pergolas are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and resistant to rot, rust, and insect damage. Bioclimatic pergolas have adjustable louvres that allow you to control light and airflow, providing ideal comfort in all weather conditions. A pergola serves as an eye-cat-

ching focal point in a garden, offering a stylish yet practical shady area. Pergolas provide shelter from the sun and light rain, making outdoor areas more usable. Their versatility makes them a great addition to patios, gardens, and poolside areas.

When choosing the right pergola, consider the material and maintenance needs. Wood requires

upkeep, while metal and vinyl offer durability with minimal maintenance.

The size of the pergola should suit the available space, ensuring it complements the outdoor area without overwhelming it. Budget is also important, as both installation and long-term maintenance costs should be considered.

Vinyl vibes

VINYL flooring is a popular and practical choice for homes and businesses. It is durable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide variety of styles, making it a great option for any renovation.

Unlike ceramic tiles, which can crack when heavy objects fall on them, vinyl flooring is more resistant to damage. Laminate flooring, which is less dense, may sag over time. Vinyl is easy to install with options like glue-down, drop-lock, and click-lock systems, and it doesn’t need grout, making it comfortable to walk on.

Cleaning vinyl is simple, just a damp mop and standard cleaner will do. It’s waterproof, making it perfect for areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Water won’t damage it, making it a dependable choice for these areas.

In kitchens, where spills and temperature changes are common, vinyl is hygienic. Its non-porous surface keeps dirt and bacteria from building up. It can also mimic wood or stone, fitting in with any home style. In bathrooms, vinyl’s water and humidity resistance prevent warping or leaks, and its non-slip surface reduces the risk of falls. Its seamless installation gives bathrooms a clean, modern look.

For living rooms, vinyl flooring combines style and durability. It resists stains and scratches, making it a great choice for homes with pets or children. Vinyl’s tough construction stands up to heavy foot traffic in hallways, and its flexible design helps reduce noise, creating a quieter atmosphere.

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Patio perks

IN spring it can still get a little chilly at night, so for those of us who enjoy the great outdoors, a patio heater could be the solution to keeping you cosy.

Patio heaters keep outdoor spaces warm but come with environmental concerns. Their impact depends on the type of energy they use, affecting emissions, efficiency, and air quality.

Propane heaters release about three kilograms of CO2 in just two hours and require frequent refuelling. Natural gas heaters burn cleaner but still rely on fossil fuels. Electric heaters are a greener option when powered by renewable energy, with infrared models being the most efficient since they directly warm people and objects instead of the surrounding air.

Gas heaters waste much of their energy as heat dissipates, using up to 108 megajoules in a few hours. Woodburning heaters release harmful pollutants, while gas models emit carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, contributing to air pollution and climate change.

Switching to electric

infrared heaters can reduce waste and emissions. They use a fraction of the energy needed by gas models and provide targeted warmth. As climate concerns grow, choosing a more sustainable heating solution can help lower the environmental impact of outdoor heating.

Live and work anywhere

GAME-CHANGING technology is broadening home options for digital nomads and homeworkers. One of the bugbears of many working solely online has been the limitations on where precisely it’s possible. How fast and how reliable will the Internet be? How idyllic a house is has been, until now, dependent on the Internet connection for so many.

The whole point of becoming a digital nomad, after all, was all about escaping the hubbub of inner-city life. But how can one take that inner-city convenience out to the sticks and truly escape?

Today, however, Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, is revolutionising connectivity and unlocking new possibilities for nomads seeking both natural beauty and productivity.

Starlink’s main benefit is its reasonably

priced high-speed Internet, delivering 50 - 150 Mbps even in Spain’s remotest corners. Unlike traditional fibre, which can flop out of town, Starlink’s loworbit satellites guarantee consistent access no matter where.

If juggling video calls, cloud projects, or transferring weighty files, the reliability has led to a paradigm shift. No more panicked searches for café Wi-Fi or suffering sketchy mobile hotspots, work now flows seamlessly from a rustic finca or mountain retreat. Spain’s digital nomad visa, coupled with incentives like Extremadura’s ‘Live in Ambroz’ grant (up to €15,000), opens up options, encouraging relocation to underpopulated regions where Starlink is a godsend.

While the upfront cost of around €350 for the receiver, plus €40 per month might put off city dwellers, in Spain’s countryside, it’s priceless.

The pros and cons of buying a Spanish property

Purchasing property in Spain with cash can be an attractive option for international buyers, offering a mortgage-free transaction with fewer restrictions. However, while buying with cash has clear benefits, it also comes with potential drawbacks. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision.

The pros of buying with cash

One of the biggest advantages of buying property in Spain with cash is avoiding mortgage-related costs. Without a loan, buyers eliminate interest payments, bank fees, and lengthy approval processes. This can speed up the transaction, allowing buyers to secure their dream home faster.

A cash purchase also strengthens a buyer’s negotiating position. Sellers are often more willing to accept lower offers from cash buyers due to the certainty and speed of the transaction. Additionally, without the need for mortgage approval, buyers avoid complications that could delay or derail the purchase.

The cons of a cash purchase

While a mortgage-free purchase can be advantageous, tying up a large amount of capital in a property may not always be the best financial decision.

Cash buyers should consider whether locking up funds in real estate is the right choice or if diversifying investments would provide better long-term returns. Another consideration is liquidity. Unlike stocks or savings, property isn’t easily converted into cash. If financial circumstances change, selling the property quickly may be challenging. Additionally, property purchases in Spain come with significant costs beyond

the purchase price, including transfer tax (6-10 per cent depending on the region), notary fees, land registry fees, and legal fees, which typically amount to 10-15 per cent of the total cost. Managing exchange rate risks For international buyers, currency exchange fluctuations can have a major impact on the overall cost of a property purchase. Sending large sums via traditional banks often results in poor

exchange rates and high transfer fees. How Currencies Direct can help Currencies Direct specialises in helping property buyers save money on international transfers. Unlike banks, which often charge high fees and offer subpar exchange rates, Currencies Direct provides competitive exchange rates, no transfer fees, and expert guidance from dedicated currency specialists.

Services such as forward contracts also allow buyers to lock in exchange rates in advance, protecting them from unexpected market changes.

With Currencies Direct, buyers can ensure their funds go further, making the overall cost of their Spanish property purchase more manageable. Pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or call +34 910 786 109 today to see how much you could save on your Spanish property purchase.

Clean mat hacks

REGULAR cleaning

of your shower mat is important for hygiene and a fresh bathroom. Over time, mats collect bacteria, mould, and mildew.

A rubber shower mat is easy to clean. Remove it from the shower, shake off any debris, and scrub it with warm water and mild detergent. Focus on stained areas, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry completely before placing it back.

Fabric shower mats absorb moisture and require frequent washing.

Always check the care label. If machine washable, use a delicate cycle with mild detergent. If mould appears on any shower mat, a simple cleaning routine can help remove it. Spray the affected areas with a mixture of white vinegar and water, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Drying the mat in sunlight helps kill mould spores and keeps it fresh. For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit for a

few minutes, then scrub and rinse. Repeat if necessary. For stubborn marks, a commercial cleaner designed for the mat’s material may be needed. Always test on a small, hidden area first. Suction cups on shower mats trap grime, so regular deep cleaning is essential. Soak the mat in warm water and vinegar for 30 minutes, then scrub around the suction cups to remove any trapped dirt. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry before reattaching it to the shower floor.

Prepare for Spain’s unpredictable weather with a Cape Reed thatched roof

LIVING on Spain’s Costa del Sol means enjoying year-round sunshine, but the region’s shifting climate patterns bring scorching summers and prolonged wet winters. Adapting your outdoor living spaces to these conditions is essential for making the most of your Mediterranean lifestyle.

Cape Reed SL specialises in creating natural, sustainable outdoor entertainment areas designed for comfort in every season. Our signature Cape Reed thatched structures provide natural shade and ventilation in summer, keeping your pergola or gazebo cool and breezy. In winter, the dense, insulating properties of Cape Reed thatch help retain warmth, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space even when temperatures drop. In fact, tests show that Cape Reed thatch offers over seven times better thermal performance than traditional roofing, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

Beyond practicality, a thatched

entertainment area adds a unique and timeless aesthetic to your home, blending beautifully with Spain’s stunning landscapes. Durable, eco-friendly, and resistant to the elements, Cape Reed structures create the perfect setting for al fresco dining, poolside relaxation, or hosting friends and family all year round.

Upgrade your outdoor lifestyle with a bespoke, sustainable thatched structure. Contact John on 638 421 464 or john@capereed.com for a free consultation, or visit www.capereed.es for inspiration.

WHEN looking for that forever home in the sun, where to choose to invest can depend on multiple factors. The lifestyle we desire, the amount of space, and whether we are beach or countryside kind of people. However, there is much to consider when weighing up town or country.

In thriving beach towns like Estepona or Fuengirola, convenience is a bonus with little need to rely on a car. Proximity to shops, nearby healthcare, and international schools are a major plus, especially for families or retirees. Towns are buzzing with social opportunities and a strong sense of expat community. In Mijas, 40 per cent of the population are expats, which has led to a thriving social scene without the place losing its Spanish character.

Property values here appreciate steadily, offering a solid investment. However, drawbacks can include noise, crowded streets in tourist season, and higher

Town or country?

property prices. A modest townhouse in Marbella might set you back €300,000, compared to more affordable rural options.

The countryside, stretching into the hills beyond Malaga, promises tranquillity, space and a more tra -

ditional cultural experience. Expats can snap up a sprawling villa originally designed for a large extended family, or a finca even, for a lot less, often with stunning views of nature and room for pools or gardens. It’s ideal for those craving privacy or a slower

Block the bright

IF external light is disturbing your sleep, blackout or room-darkening curtains can help improve your rest.

These curtains are perfect for bedrooms, media rooms, or any space that needs light control, and they come in various materials, colours, and designs.

Blackout curtains are great at blocking out light, whether it’s from sunlight or streetlights. They also reduce outside noise and help with energy efficiency by keeping your home insulated.

Blackout curtains also protect against harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and artwork. Available in neutral tones or vibrant patterns, they suit a variety of interior styles. Materials like pencil pleated curtains and sheer fabrics provide UV protection while allowing you to control light. Besides light control, blackout curtains contribute to energy efficiency. Their thermal lining keeps rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. Their specialised coating also prevents fabric fading, ensuring long-lasting durability.

When choosing blackout curtains, consider how dark you want the room to be. Full blackout shades are best for complete darkness, while room-darkening curtains offer a softer effect. For safety, cordless blackout curtains are a smart choice for homes with children or pets.

Proper installation is key for blackout curtains to work well. The curtain rods should prevent light gaps, and the panels should be wide and long enough to cover the entire window frame. For total light blockage, measurements should extend at least 12 inches beyond the window frame on all sides.

pace, perfect for remote workers or retirees.

Lower costs (a rural three-bedroom home might cost around €200,000) raise the attractiveness. Yet, isolation is not for everyone. Limited public transport means a car is essential,

and amenities like hospitals or supermarkets may be a fair drive away. While Internet reliability can be excellent in town, it is definitely something to look into further outside urban areas. One can be taken aback by how low prices of large houses can be in rural Malaga Province. The fact is that few Spaniards like the isolation, hence the bargains. Ultimately, the decision hinges on lifestyle. Town life suits social butterflies and convenience-seekers, while the countryside is a draw for nature lovers and bargain hunters. Expats should weigh their priorities based on how they are going to be spending their time. It’s community versus calm, accessibility versus affordability. Many get carried away when they first lay eyes on a property and sign the dotted line before consulting professionals in the field. Both town and country offer that slice of paradise in the Costa del Sol, each with differing flavours.

Bolt acquires Viggo

THE move, announced on Monday March 24, builds on Bolt’s existing e-bike rental operations in Copenhagen.

The acquisition gives Bolt immediate access to Viggo’s fully electric eet of over 300 vehicles and a user base of 450,000 people across Copenhagen and Aarhus, according to Ritzau. The deal also adds more than 500 professional drivers to Bolt’s platform.

Founded in 2019, Viggo is known as Scandinavia’s rst 100 per cent electric ride-hailing company. It has a reputation for high service quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainability.

“Joining Bolt allows us to scale our impact, bene ting both drivers and passengers with new technology, increased

demand, and continued commitment to quality,” said Kenneth Herschel, CEO of Viggo.

Bolt CEO Markus Villig commented: “We have always had a high bar for M&A [mergers and acquisitions], but we share Viggo’s mission to improve cities and were impressed by their fully electric operations.”

The company also announced a new partnership with Taxi 4x27, which will bring over 600 additional vehicles onto the Bolt platform, as reported by Silicon Canals. According to Lars Speekenbrink, Bolt’s Regional General Manager for Northern Europe:

“Our platform is designed to help partners scale e ciently, increase vehicle utilisation, and maximise earnings.”

Outrage in Dublin

A STUDENT in Dublin has launched a campaign to protect the famous Molly Malone statue, amid growing outrage over tourists groping the landmark’s breasts.

Tilly Cripwell, a 23-yearold student and busker at Trinity College, has called out what she describes as “disgusting behaviour” by visitors, especially stag parties. Years of tourists fondling the statue’s chest have discoloured the bronze, with the breasts now visibly shinier than the rest of the sculpture.

“It triggered me so much, I just had to put a stop to it,” said Cripwell, who argues that the statue is being reduced to a joke and sends a poor message to young people.

Dublin City Council has con rmed it is reviewing a plan to raise the statue on a higher plinth and restore the original patina.

The council is also urging tourist companies to stop encouraging the practice. Locally known as ‘the tart with the cart’, Molly Malone has stood in Dublin since 1988, symbolising the city’s working-class history. However, the tradition of rubbing the statue’s breasts for good luck - quietly endorsed by some tour guides - has drawn sharp criticism.

“Male statues are placed high up and treated with respect,” Cripwell noted.

“But Molly is within reach, and people take liberties.”

Some tour operators have apologised after being accused of fuelling the myth, but the controversial behaviour continues.

The council is expected to present its full report on potential changes next month.

Viggo taxi.

Credit : Shutterstock, Ana Candida

The Molly Malone statue in Dublin, a popular tourist attraction now at the centre of a debate over visitor behaviour and preservation.

Mother’s Day: A tale of two traditions

THERE’S a Mother’s Day celebration somewhere in the world nearly every month. In the UK, Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, March 30. In most of Europe (including Spain) and North America it’s in May.

In Thailand and Costa Rica in August. In Argentina in October, and in Panama and Indonesia in December.

Although Mother’s Day is celebrated with equal affection in both Spain and the UK, their origins and timing differ.

The British version, ‘Mothering Sunday’, dates back to the 16th century, when people returned to their ‘mother church’ during Lent. Over time, it became a day to honour mothers, fuelled by Victorian sentimentality.

Spain, however, follows a more sa-

cred tradition. Held on the first Sunday in May, it aligns with the country’s deep-rooted Catholicism, honouring the Virgin Mary as the ultimate mother. Until 1965, it was even marked on December 8 - Immaculate Conception Day.

So, while timing varies, the universal truth remains: mothers deserve celebration every day, not just once a year!

And finally, how can we begin to thank our Mothers for all their invaluable insights and advice? When I was a kid, and kicking up a foul-mouthed rumpus, she would say, “If you haven’t got anything nice to say, then why say anything at all?”

Imagine if I had listened to her then. Where would I be - novelist and columnist - now?

Nora Johnson’s 13 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl across the Lake’ (www.nora-jo hnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Acronyms Decoded: Ultimate cheat sheet

EVER felt like you’re trying to decode an ancient script from a lost civilisation when reading your text messages?

You see a message packed with strange codes, your brain freezes, and suddenly, you’re blushing because you have absolutely no clue what anyone’s talking about. Cue the desperate Google search. Sound familiar?

Honestly, with all these acronyms flying around, I wouldn’t be surprised if we’re secretly part of some intergalactic communication network and don’t even know it! Maybe aliens are using these codes to chat with us, just waiting for the day we crack the code and realise we’ve been texting Mars all along.

But jokes aside, while acronyms make communication fast and fun, sometimes I feel like they’re stealing the soul of writing. Writing, aside from the obvious, helps us process our thoughts and even acts as a built-in therapist - saving us a fortune in therapy fees! But hey, whether we like it or not, the world is changing, and those long, beautifully crafted sentences we used to write are being replaced with bite-sized codes. The future is here... and it’s all about acronyms. Alright, enough of my rambling - before I get lost in my own thoughts! Love them or loathe them, acronyms are like that stubborn stain on your favourite shirtthey’re not going anywhere. So why not embrace the madness and have a laugh? Here’s your ultimate cheat sheet to crack the code of modern texting before you find yourself googling ‘What does that even mean?’ every five seconds:

1. ISTG – I Swear To God (Use to emphasise sincerity or frustration)

COAST TO COAST

2. IDC – I Don’t Care (Use when you’re unbothered)

3. HMU – Hit Me Up (Use when you want someone to message or call you)

4. ILY / ILU – I Love You (Use to express affection, obviously!)

5. TTYL – Talk To You Later (Use when signing off)

6. FWIW – For What It’s Worth (Use when giving your perspective)

7. OMW – On My Way (Use when you’re heading somewhere)

8. GYAT – Get Your Act Together

9. ONG – On God (Like ‘I swear’)

10. RIZZ – Short for ‘charisma’ (Used to describe someone’s ability to flirt)

11. BET – Means ‘okay’ or ‘for sure’ (Used to agree or confirm plans)

12. NPC – Non-Playable Character (Used to call someone boring or predictable)

13. SLAY – To do something really well or look amazing (Often about fashion)

14. L – Loss (Used when someone fails or embarrasses themselves)

15. W – Win (Opposite of ‘L’, used when someone succeeds at something)

16. MID – Mediocre, average, not great (Used to insult things)

17. NO CAP – No lie, being honest These acronyms are super common on TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. So now, you can decode your friends’ messages with ease - without having to Google every acronym!

aif2018@hotmail.com

LUCCA MOVALDI PRESIDENT: AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL CLUB MARBELLA

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

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

TAPAS Spring fair

EVER-popular, the TAPAS annual Spring Fair is back with something for all the family on Saturday, April 12.

There will be Easter Bonnet competitions for both grown-ups and kids, a bakea-cake competition, a children’s Easter egg hunt, more than 30 craft stalls to peruse, and a whole lot more in this jam-packed fun day out.

TAPAS (The Andalucia Performing Arts Society) invites everyone to come along and join in the fun and enter competitions. Cakes are being

baked and children are getting excited at the prospect of searching for chocolate goodies. There will be something for everyone.

“There will be over 30 stalls with local produce, gifts and crafts, a tombola stall, music all day and great food available. It is a great traditional Easter event with something for all ages and nationalities and an opportunity to support and showcase local craft businesses and bring a fun event for the local community to enjoy,” said Linda Cha-

dburn, TAPAS treasurer and event organiser. Taking place at Chiringuito Ania & Mayra, Carretera Cartama-Coin KM 4.3, Cartama on Saturday, April 12, entry is completely free. The fair is open between 11am and 3pm. TAPAS supports the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group, based in Calahonda, and provides an informal and supportive environment, information and activities to carers and support users. For further information contact info@ adsgmijascostaspain.com.

Harley weekend

MAYDAY, The Hank Moody Band, Daniel Song, Reverendo Seven, Navegando, The Bert Blackmon Trio, The Blue Stompers, and Mami Curl and Company, are all playing the three day Harley-Davidson Club meet in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmadena.

As if the poor residents of Arroyo de la Miel didn’t have it bad enough with the racket caused by the constant buzz of Uber Eats mopeds whipping around all day and night, now the noise-beleaguered neighbours of Benalmadena will have to put up with three days of the roar and rumble of Harleys rolling through their barrio.

as well as other vehicles to enjoy with family and friends throughout the weekend.

Those who attend the event will not only enjoy live music, food trucks and a great atmosphere, but also the Harley Davidson motorcycle exhibitions at the fairgrounds,

In 2024, the Harley show packed out, with Harley-Davidson clubs from all over the country and crowds enjoying the early days of spring, some good ol’ rock’n’roll, and the roar of motorcycle engines.

It all kicks off on Friday, April 4 at 6pm and goes on to 6pm, Sunday.

Credit: Muller Denis - Shutterstock

Credit: Monkey Business ImagesShutterstock

Spring fair time.

Harleys on parade.

Christy’s, experts in Day Two

CHRISTY’S Irish Gastropub is more than just an Irish pub. More than just the best bar in Fuengirola (according to TripAdvisor), much more than the pint of the black stuff around.

With their massive, covered rear terrace, Christy’s is also the perfect place to throw a celebratory shindig. How about a Day Two Party? The all-weather terrace is open to book and it won’t cost a thing.

It’s become customary in recent years that Irish couples getting married in Spain throw a ‘Day Two Party’ for their wedding guests. They have come a long way to see you, after all. An actual wedding day can be quite intense for the bride and groom with all the photos and making sure the guests are happy.

A Day Two Party can be a much more relaxed affair and gives the happy couple a chance to really relax and enjoy themselves as well as thanking family and friends for making the journey to Spain.

At Christy’s they are specialists in catering for Day Two Oarties with an ornate bar and a fabulous all-weather terrace. They’ve also got wonderful chefs and fabulous waiting staff.

Christy’s can offer set menus, hot and cold buffets, charcuterie boards and more. Drinks-wise, they can organise welcome drinks such as Champagne, cava or prosecco, drinks packages or a ‘free bar’. There is,

of course, the option of guests paying as they go, meaning you can book Christy’s (free of charge), and guests pay for their own drinks and order food from Christy’s standard menu should they wish. And they probably should,

because it’s the finest pub cuisine around.

Booking Christy’s bar and terrace is always free. They do not charge any hire fee for the use of their premises. All you ever pay for is food and drinks.

If you’re thinking of a Day Two Party in Fuengirola, first read their reviews on TripAdvisor, Google and Facebook. They really are the best. After that, send a WhatsApp message to (+34) 620 226 911. And they will either go through everything via WhatsApp, or you can call in at the bar for a free drink and a free noobligation quote (free bar and/or catering).

Christy’s is the number one place for Day Two Parties. Pop in and see for yourself on Calle Olleria 20, Fuengirola.

EASTER Sunday is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable lunch at OAK Firehouse & Cocktail! Join us on Sunday, March 31, for a feast full of flavour, music, and great company in the heart of Marbella.

Tucked away near La Sala Puerto Banus and set against the stunning backdrop of La Concha, OAK Firehouse & Cocktail is the perfect spot to enjoy a laidback yet indulgent Easter experience.

For just €48 per person, our Easter Sunday Lunch is served from 1pm to 6pm, offering a mouthwatering selection of dishes that will make your Easter extra

special. Start off with delicious options like Wild Game Pâté Duo, a Classic Prawn & Avocado Cocktail, or a Smoked Salmon Rosette. Then, move on to the main event - our signature Roast Sirloin of Beef, carved tableside for a bit of extra flair. Not in the mood for beef? No problem! Choose from our Herb Roasted Leg of Lamb or Slow Roasted Chicken Coquelet, all served with traditional trimmings like duck fat roast potatoes and seasonal roasted roots.

Of course, no celebration at OAK would be complete without live music! From 2pm to 5pm, Joey Sax & DJ Lady Jade will be bringing the vibes, followed by the smooth, soulful sounds of Paul Maxwel’s ‘The Piano Man Experience’ from 5pm to 7pm.

Make this Easter one to remember and book your table now.

Book your table to enjoy a luxury Easter Sunday Lunch via email at info@oak marbella.com or call 951 319 411.

Tranquil wilderness

TRANQUIL Wilder-

ness Yoga and Trekking event invites the community to explore the revitalised tropical canyons and hidden lagoons of Rio Alaminos, rejuvenated by recent rains. The easy-grade, 10 km trek promises shaded yoga and meditation sessions in a forest overlooking a stunning wild canyon, culminating at one of the region’s most breathtaking waterfalls.

Steeped in history, the valley hides remnants of a Second World War SS garrison from the Franco era, now overtaken by vines, and once featured in a famous 1980s Timotei shampoo ad. The day begins at 10.30am outside Harmons Bar in Elviria, with all transfers provided and a return by 3.30pm. Priced at €40 per person (or €30 with your own transport), the trip includes insurance and energy-packed snacks like almonds, cashews, dried fruit, organic slices, Indian dal, and Seana’s delicious vegan treats.

To join, bring lightweight gym clothes, hiking or trail shoes (standard trainers work too), and an optional swim kit for a dip in mineral-rich lagoons. Pack a small rucksack with a water bottle. Book by paying a 50 per cent deposit – fully refundable up to 48 hours prior or fully refundable if the weather cancels the trip – via bank transfer, Revolut, or cash.

Contact yoga teacher Seana (603 147 568) or trekking guide Andy (604 378 834) via WhatsApp or Facebook, or visit www.trekkinginandalucia. com. Don’t miss this tranquil escape!

Darkness into Light 2025

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT walk is returning to the Costa del Sol this May 20, 2025, for what is geared up to be its biggest year ever.

Darkness into Light Charity Walk is a global awareness campaign of suicide and self-harm prevention.

“We walk in solidarity in memory of our loved ones lost.”

The walk was started by Pieta, which was established in Dublin in 2006 to help people in suicidal distress or engaging in self-harm. Since then, they have been a vital lifeline to 70,000 people. They offer a range of essential supports completely free of charge and funded by community events such as this.

This year, in Benalmadena, La Cala de Mijas and Estepona, as well as some 150 locations around the world, the Costa del Sol community will be walking from darkness to light to raise funds for AFESOL, the mental health charity, as well as raising vital funds for them to continue their work. Bringing together communities in this way raises awareness about a subject that previously too many were afraid to talk about, and without talk, there is little hope in working towards preventing suicide and self-harm.

The yearly Darkness into Light walk began back in 2009 when 400 people in the Phoenix Park in Dublin

set off on the inaugural Darkness Into Light 5km walk to raise funds for Pieta. From small beginnings, the movement has continued to grow, and now there are over 150,000 participants each year. Since 2012, Darkness into Light walks have gone international, firstly in London and now at 150 locations around the world, all walking together in friendship and community to end suicide and self-harm.

AFESOL, the beneficiary in Spain, runs workshops in secondary schools, individual psychological care for those with suicidal ideation or behaviour, attention and counselling for surviving family members, as well as psychosocial counselling for families.

The walk will start in the darkness of early morning and walk into the light of a new day. Mark the date in your diaries; the Costa del Sol routes begin at 6am on Saturday, May 10, in Benalmadena at Plaza el Remo (La Carihuela, Torremolinos), La Cala de Mijas outside Biddy Mulligans Calle Cuesta Moral 6, and in Estepona at Chiringuito Blue Dolphin, Estepona.

To sign up for the charitable social event in Benalmadena, La Cala de Mijas or Estepona, visit darknes sintolight.ie to book your place. For adults it is €24, teens between 13 and 17, €5, and under 13s go free. Let’s make the Darkness into Light walk the biggest ever this year.

The Darkness into Light charity walk returns to the Costa del Sol.

Yoda and meditation in tranquil setting.

Credit: Andy Sawyer

Joseph’s dreamcoat

production of the smash-hit musical Joseph and his Technicolor Dreamcoat playing until Sunday, March 30.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the high-spirited musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, retells the biblical story of Joseph from the Book of Genesis. Joseph, favoured by his father Jacob, receives a dazzling multicoloured coat, sparking jealousy among his 11 brothers. They end up selling him into slavery in Egypt, where his ability to interpret dreams propels him from prisoner to Pharaoh’s advisor. As a famine strikes, Joseph’s foresight saves Egypt, earning him power and prestige. His brothers, unaware of his identity, arrive seeking aid. After testing their

character, particularly Judah’s, Joseph reveals himself, forgiving them in a tearful reunion.

The musical, known for its catchy score blending pop, rock, and country, explores themes of envy, resilience, and redemption. First performed in 1968 as a short school production, it evolved into a global hit, celebrated for its playful storytelling and, of course, its iconic coat. Starring Jacob Botha as Joseph, with Jimmy Millar directing and designing the choreography, James Burn directing the music, and Ruth Norris as narrator, the show will be a sellout. It runs until Sunday, March 30, nightly at 7.30pm, except for Sunday when it plays at 7pm. There are 2pm matinees on the Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets are available from the theatre box office and cost €25.

Fuengirola’s Dog Day

FUENGIROLA is hosting the 14th year of Dog Day on Sunday April 6, a much loved event for animal lovers, set against the scenic slopes of Sohail Castle.

The special doggy-focused day aims to solidify bonds between residents and their pets, and promoting Fuengirola’s dedication to being a pet-friendly destination.

Walkies time is at 10am in Plaza de España where participants will receive pet gifts before joining a dog parade along the promenade to Parque del Castillo. There, tents and stalls from participating groups and businesses will offer some engaging activities, including exhibitions, parades, raffles, and adoption opportunities.

This year sees the introduction of a sporty twist with doggie paddle surfing

at Castillo Beach, weather permitting, of course.

One highlight will be Malaga National Police’s Special Canine Unit showcasing their police dogs’ skills, followed by an educational agility course led by trainer José Luque López.

Animal welfare groups, including the Animal Domus shelter, will be promoting their services and showing dogs seeking forever homes. A charity bar will serve refreshments, with proceeds supporting animal causes.

Now over a decade strong, Dog Day remains one of the social cornerstones for Fuengirola locals and visitors, mixing fun, family time, and pet appreciation.

Save the date: Sunday, April 6, at 10am at Plaza de España, Fuengirola.

Credit: María Hernández, FB

Día del Perro celebrated at Sohail Castle, Fuengirola.

TICKETS are on sale for the Salón Varietés Theatre

Credit: Graham Spencer

Stage of colours at Salón Varietés.

FUENGIROLA’S own original ABBA tribute band is back on Saturday, July 29, for a dazzling performance at Kukko in Los Boliches.

ABBA will perform a sparkling tribute concert to the Swedish superstars, ABBA, at everyone’s favourite Finnish hub in Avenida de Los Boliches.

Disco groovers can expect a spellbinding showcase featuring glitzy 70s costumes, mesmerising dance routines, and live musicians, all selected to transport the audience back in time to the 70s and 80s and the golden era of ABBA, performing all the Swedish group’s chart-topping hits.

The Kukko Abba nights receive rave reviews for their incredibly entertaining shows.

Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, Super Trouper, Winner Takes It All, Chiquitita, Mamma Mia, Waterloo, and

Abba at Kukko

all the rest.

The venue’s doors will open from 8pm on the night, and the show goes on until 10pm. At 8.30pm, the stage will come alive with

the dazzling performances by Kukko’s own ABBA. Doors open at 6.30pm, and booking a table is recommended for this ever-popular event.

Bookings can be made by emailing kukko. events@gmail.com. Kukko can be found on Avenida, Los Boliches 4, Fuengirola.

Northern Soul night, Cazbah

GET your dancing shoes all polished and take out your baggiest trousers, as the Cazbah Live Lounge in Mijas is holding a Northern Soul Night on Saturday, March 29.

What is Northern Soul? American Soul, mostly from the northern states, found new roots in the 60s in the north of England, as ‘Soulies’ came together for all-nighters at grand venues like the Wigan Casino. Dancing the night away in waist-flared trousers and doing acrobatic moves, Northern Soul rapidly became a huge scene, and it still continues today. Despite the Americanness of the music, the Northern Soul scene was very much an English creation, pre-disco, and all about showing off

your best moves on the ballroom floor. Once you get into it, it’s addictive. Practise at home in your kitchen, and it will bring out a lovely shine on your tiled floor.

A night of non-stop dancing to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Chuck Wood, The Embers, Gloria Jones, Roger Hatcher, and many other Northern Soul vinyl rarities await at the Cazbah Live Lounge with the best Northern Soul DJs on the coast, Lupi ‘Krazy Boy’ and El Tel at The Cazbah Live Lounge.

The dancing kicks off on Saturday, March 29, at 8pm. Entry is €5 at the door, although tables can be booked by calling 602 535 710.

La Cala Waiters’ Race

WHO’LL claim the title of Fastest Waiter in La Cala de Mijas? The La Cala de Mijas Lions are thrilled to launch their first-ever Waiters’ Race, and they’re calling on the community to come cheer on the action on Saturday, March 29.

Teaming up with Mijas Council, the Lions are challenging the area’s swiftest waiters and waitresses to dash through La Cala’s streets, balancing a tray with a glass of water, a croissant, and a cup of coffee - all with just one hand. These speedy servers will put their skills to the test, racing for glory and a good cause.

Organised by Sandra Tavendale and the Lions crew, the event has local bars buzzing as they nominate their quickest

staff to compete in this high-stakes showdown. You can back your favourite contender by sponsoring them with every penny raised supporting the Lions’ charities.

The fun doesn’t stop at the race. Expect 50 artisan stalls, a Lions pop-up shop with cakes, hot dogs, a cava bar, and live performances by John Sharples, Drang drums, and more to keep the energy rising. The race kicks off at 2pm on Saturday, March 29, and every waiter needs sponsors to fuel the charitable spirit. Grab a sponsor form at participating bars or call Sandra on 663 529 280. Want to join the race or learn more? Contact Sandie on 633 529 280 or at the Lions shop in La Cala de Mijas.

Kukko’s very own Abba tribute act. Waiters

Estepona street fest ADINTRE country walk

ESTEPONA Vive Sus

Calles returns for its 2025 edition, running from Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30, promising a fun celebration of art, food, and entertainment.

Organised by the Estepona Council, this annual extravaganza aims to bring residents and visitors together to enjoy the town’s recently revitalised historic streets through a packed programme of free activities.

Venezuelan superstar Carlos Baute will headline a concert on Saturday, March 29, at 10pm in Plaza del Ajedrez, delivering his unmistakable Latin pop vibe. Food lovers can savour the 14th Ruta de la Tapa, where 20 local eateries compete for the ‘Best Tapas’ prize across the three days.

Pick up a ‘passport’

Office to vote for your favourite tapa and win prizes. Sunday, March 30, brings the National Ham Cutting Contest ‘Trofeo Popi’ to Calle Real from noon to 4pm, showcasing the very best cured Spanish ham and the best professional cutters, slicing the thinnest ham free to try.

Families can enjoy a children’s party on Saturday from noon to 8pm at Plaza Augusto Suárez, featuring an ‘It’s a Knoc-

kout-style’ circuit with a mechanical bull and climbing wall. With theatre, chess tournaments, a cheese fair, a flower power party, fashion shows, and an orienteering race, Estepona Vive Sus Calles offers something for everyone in this lively community celebration. From Friday, March 28, to Sunday, March 30, the streets of Estepona will be full of a spring party atmosphere.

THE ADINTRE Foundation, the organisation helping those in need, especially the homeless, in the Costa del Sol has been working tirelessly to support the homeless in Malaga, providing shelter, food, and essential supplies. With the heavy rains across Spain, life has become even more difficult for the homeless community.

Urgently needed is help to provide critical assistance during this challenging time. The walk is a chance for everyone to come together as a community, raise funds, and make a tangible impact on those who need it most. Your participation will show solidarity and help provide relief to those affected by the storms.

The event takes place on Saturday, March 29, at 11am, with the meeting point at the beautiful Barranco Blanco (A-3303 between Castillo de la Mota, Alhaurin el

Grande and Coin. The walk is about 7km, and the donation €7 pp, all proceeds going to the ADINTRE Foundation.

If you can’t join the walk, you can help by organising your own local walk, sending ADINTRE photos, and donating online. Items like sleeping bags, blankets, toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc), and clothing are also appreciated.

For a treat, Sarah from ADINTRE will offer Scotch eggs and sausage rolls, and Sasha will have cakes available, with a portion of sales donated to the foundation.

Pre-order from Sarah and Sasha, and to let us know if you’re joining the walk, by emailing sussie@ginaremedilink.com or WhatsApp (+34) 722 350 030.

If you need a pin, WhatsApp on (+34) 722 350 030, and they will send it to you.

booklet from the Tourist

Credit: Ayuntamiento Estepona.

Estepona Vive Sus Calles festival.

Healthy helping - ADINTRE country walk.

COSTA FOOD TOURS

Sardines vs Anchovies - You

SARDINES and anchovies are both small, oily fish, but they have distinct differences in taste, texture, and culinary uses, so what’s the big deal? Here’s our little comparison to make it a bit clearer:

Sardines: Larger (5-8 inches long), silver in colour with a rounder body.

Anchovies: Smaller (2-4 inches long), darker, and slender with a greenish-blue tint.

• Taste & Texture

Sardines: Milder, slightly sweet, and meaty with a flaky texture.

Anchovies: Stronger, more intense umami flavoor, often salty, a softer, more delicate texture.

• Nutrition

Both are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, and protein.

decide ??

David Gallagher, Exec chef

Grilled Sardines with Lemon & Garlic - Brush fresh sardines with olive oil, grill for 2–3 minutes per side, and serve with lemon and garlic.

EXECUTIVE Chef David Gallagher has taken over at Olivia’s in La Cala de Mijas, given a free hand to reinvent a venue he helped to create originally.

Sardine Toast - Mash canned sardines with mustard and lemon, spread on toast, and top with capers and rocket.

Mediterranean Sardine Pasta - Sauté garlic, cherry tomatoes, and olives in olive oil, then mix with canned sardines and pasta.

Elliott Wright and David first met more than 20 years ago when Elliott took on the already seasoned chef at his first-ever restaurant. Since then, David has travelled the world, worked at some of the most globally celebrated eateries, and picked up some of the most innovative and exotic flavours and techniques on his travels.

bites or mighty feasts.

Sardines tend to have slightly more calcium due to their edible bones, while anchovies are higher in sodium due to the curing process.

• Sustainability

Sardines are generally more sustainable because they are lower in the food chain and reproduce quickly.

Anchovy populations fluctuate more due to overfishing in some regions.

• Preparation and culinary uses

Sardines: Typically canned in oil, water, or tomato sauce, and can be eaten whole (bones and all).

BUT fresh sardines grilled on an open wood or charcoal flame are the archetypal Espeto, a triumph of Malaguenian cuisine, mainly seen on the beach and revered by anyone who tries them.

• And here’s a few other recipe ideas:

sardines

Sardine Salad - Combine sardines with avocado, greens, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette.

Sardine Pâté - Blend canned sardines with cream cheese, capers, and Dijon mustard for a spreadable dip.

And the best sardine brand, undoubtedly ‘Matiz’ - the Spanish brand with high-end, flavourful sardines.

Anchovies: Often cured in salt and packed in oil, giving them a potent, salty taste. They can also be found fresh or pickled.

• And here’s a few recipe ideas:

Caesar Salad Dressing - Blend anchovies with garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, egg yolk, and Parmesan for a classic dressing.

Anchovy Butter - Mash anchovies with softened butter and spread on steak or bread.

Puttanesca PastaSauté anchovies with garlic, olives, capers, and tomatoes for a bold-flavoured sauce.

Tapenade - Blend anchovies with olives, capers, and olive oil to make a Mediterranean dip.

Anchovy Pizza - Use sparingly on a classic Neapolitan pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and oregano.

And the best anchovy brandis Ortiz – known for premium, hand-packed anchovies.

ENJOY !!

This new ‘free-hand’ has allowed him to pay homage to an elevated concept of traditional Spanish flavours with his inimitable international flair, putting together flavour sensations never before experienced in Spain. Out are the tired old traditional three-course meal combinations, and in are pick-what-takes-yourfancy sharing menus, light

There’s the open kitchen, revealing the fiery secrets of the chefs and bringing out culinary creation into the dining experience; the rooftop sushi bar; the specially built parilla and bread oven; and the chilled music where the focal point is the flavour and the company.

Under David’s concept, dining is all about sharing

moments, flavours and experiences. Inspired by Basque tradition, the new menus celebrate the fine art of grilling over an open flame, enhancing the fresh local bounty of ingredients with the finest inspiration gathered from Korea, Australia, Scandinavia and Iceland, and much more. Olivia’s is due to reopen Saturday, March 29 in La Cala de Mijas.

Quiz championship

QUIZMASTER

Alan Boardman will be hosting the grand final of the Quiz Night championship at Miraflores Spikes Bar on Wednesday, April 9.

In aid of the Fundación Olivares, the event will be a night to remember as the Costa del Sol community finally gets to discover who the coast’s quiz royalty is.

So, get your pencil sharpened and fake moustaches so no one can read your lips from across the room, as this will be a decisive tournament.

Entry is €15, which includes food. You will need to pre-order from a menu of Texas chilli beef, roast chicken, Feria-style jacket potato, panko fried fish goujons, or Mirafores golf salad.

The quiz night championship starts at 7.30pm sharp. Teams are a maximum of four with quizmaster and host Alan Boardman.

Make a booking with Ludo and his team on 951 840 283 or Sara on 711 008 765.

Prior to that, have a bit of a warmup at Fibbers Irish Bar in Torreblanca, raising much-needed funds for local charities. The next one is on Tuesday, April 1, at 2.30pm in aid of AFESOL, the local mental health charity. It’s just €2 per person to enter.

If you don’t have a team of four, Alan will gladly find others for you to form one with. Just turn up, as there is no need to book.

bites or mighty feasts. moments, flavours

Credit: EWN

David Gallagher at Olivia’s.

Fun quiz for charity.

Twanging guitars Paco García Trío

THE comeback is upon us, with classic Rock’n’Roll being as popular today as it was back in the 1950s.

In the last 30 years, there have been an incredible number of groups emerge from northern Europe that have opted for the sound of classic American, Rockabilly, Rock’n’Roll or Rhythm and Blues.

In Finland, to be more precise, groups such as Hal Peter’s Trio or The Barnshakers have swayed towards the sound and look of the 50s, and this week one of the most celebrated is landing in Fuengirola.

Tina Bednoff & The Cocktailers perform at Hima Live, in Fuengirola, on Thursday, March 27.

This extraordinary band with such a classic sound features vocalist Tina, bass, drums, and piano, jammed with influences of such greats as Ruth Brown or Wynona Carr, Buddy Guy and Amos Milburn. Their highly recommendable album, Jump, Sister, Jump on El Toro Records, has become a point of reference in the Rockabilly world.

A perfect night of driving grooves and twanging guitars is lined up at Hima Bar with one of the best and most well-seasoned in the business, earning the respect of any from the southern United States Rock’n’Roll community.

Hima Klub can be found on Calle Poeta Salvador Rueda, Fuengirola. It’s free entry, and the gig begins at 7pm.

THE Paco García Trío, featuring Paco García on piano, Giustino Graziosi on drums, and Pepe Triano on double bass, will bring their project While Our Song Plays to the Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos.

Launched in 2019, this trio highlights original compositions by García, their leader and pianist, weaving modern jazz with influences from icons like Dave Brubeck, Herbie Hancock, and Enrique Granados.

While Our Song Plays offers a fresh, engaging sound with carefully crafted melodies, inventive reharmonisations, and rhythms that honour and then break from tradition. The trio balances tonal and modal harmonies, delivering both unexpected twists and classic structures. It’s a project that appeals to a broad audience while staying true to the traditions and expectations of classic jazz music.

Tickets are priced at €15 for Zone A (rows 1-3), €12 for Zone B (row 4 onwards), and €10

for reduced visibility and general seating, with a 20 perc ent discount for members.

Since starting this venture, the Paco García Trío has earned praise for their eclectic approach and conceptual depth, promising a night of sophisticated yet accessible jazz for everyone.

Don’t miss their performance at Clarence Jazz Club, Calle Danza Invisible, Torremolinos, Friday, March 28, 10pm.

News from Simply Thriving

SIMPLY THRIVING starts April with a lunch at Tapa y Thai on Thursday April 3. This is a very popular restaurant so it’s important to book early as there is limited space. In April we are celebrating St George’s Day on Wed -

nesday April 23 with an evening event at La Sierra and entertainment from our own favourite St George in the form of Alexandra Avery. An evening not to be missed and open to everyone.

Credit: TC

Tina Bednoff & The Cocktailers.

Paco García Trio together again.

ARTIST Jorge Pinto is exhibiting at the Artsenal Inoxis in Alhaurin el Grande as part of the steam-punkish arts centre’s newly inaugurated Spring exhibition.

Euro Weekly News was at the event to meet up with Jorge to discuss his fascination with classic forms.

With Puerto Rican roots, much of his life was spent living in Sevilla, and the last few years living and working in Marbella; Jorge’s oils on canvases have taken a Costa del Sol character that bathes his realist images in the light of the south coast. Celebrated professional illustrator, the subjects of this show are classic vehicles.

EWN: Why classic vehicles, Jorge?

Jorge: I love the organic shapes. The cur-

The art of Jorge Pinto Ukrainian Ballet in Fuengirola

PALACIO DE LA PAZ in Fuengirola will host a capti vating performance of ‘Ro meo and Juliet’ by Ukrai ne’s Premiera Classic Ballet Company on Tuesday, April 1 at 8pm.

The event has been hai led as one of the most cul turally significant of the year in Fuengirola and marks the Ukrainian Ballet Thea tre’s first time performing in Spain. Premiera has perfor med over 600 shows world wide, and now they’re brin ging Prokofiev’s iconic score and Shakespeare’s timeless love story to Fuengirola for the first time.

ves and how the shiny paint radiates. There are some classic Americans in my collection, the Mini, and, the Seat 600 a symbol of Spain. Also Vespas. In Sevilla there are Vespas everywhere.

EWN: You don’t use a lot of black in your works. I see layers of bright colours juxtaposed to create the dark tones.

Jorge: That’s because that’s the way it really is. That’s the way I see it.

The glow of reds and blues surrounding the image of the Seat 600 merge at a distance into a sharp contour, while up close form a halo-like glow around the car.

Jorge Pinto’s paintings can be seen at the Artsenal Inoxis spring exhibition until June 8, Camino de la Reina 3, Alhaurin el Grande.

The production promises stunning sets, elaborate costumes, and elegant, emotive choreography that captures the Verona lovers’ romance, family rivalries, and tragic separation, right up to their heart-wrenching end.

This will be a rare chance to see classical ballet at

the Palacio de la Paz and this troupe’s spectacular storytelling and detailed staging. With a repertoire of 14 ballet classics, over 1,000 costumes, and dozens of scenic backdrops, Premiera has toured extensively across Poland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and China.

Now, Spain welcomes

two of their most striking, never-before-seen works. The performance blends Prokofiev’s soul-stirring music with a narrative of love defying death, offering Fuengirola audiences a night of world-class artistry and profound emotion.

Tickets are available in advance at giglon.com, prices begin at €19.92.

Greek bears awake

SPRING has officially arrived in northern Greece as the brown bears at Arcturos Bear Sanctuary emerge from hibernation.

Located in the snowy forests of Nymfeo, the sanctuary is once again open to visitors eager to watch the bears shake off the winter chill.

Among the first to venture out, Patrick and Louiza were seen rolling in the snow, while Duke happily splashed in his pool after months of dormancy. George took to the trees to scout his surroundings, while Sandy, ever the late riser, lingered in her den. Mira, meanwhile, appeared groggy, still adjusting to the new season.

The sanctuary, operated by Arcturos since 1992, is more than just a haven for rescued bears. It provides permanent refuge for animals that cannot be reintroduced into the wild, often due to injury or past captivity. Beyond caring

for its furry residents, Arcturos also focuses on conservation, habitat protection, and educating the public about Greece’s endangered wildlife, including wolves and lynxes.

Located in Florina, one of Greece’s coldest areas, the sanctuary often endures temperatures as low as -10°C, with past records

hitting -29°C. Around 450 wild brown bears roam Greece’s Pindos and Rhodope mountain ranges, but sightings in places like Olympus and Nafpaktia suggest their habitat is expanding.

For now, visitors to Nymfeo can witness the joy of these majestic animals welcoming spring.

Ryanair gender case

Ryanair faces a lawsuit after a non-binary traveller claims the airline failed to offer a gender-neutral title during booking.

A NON-BINARY traveller is suing Ryanair for £4,200 after the airline failed to offer a gender-neutral title during a flight booking. The passenger, who was booking a trip from Berlin to Gran Canaria in October 2021, claims the absence of an ‘Mx’ option left them without a title that reflects their identity. With only ‘Herr’, ‘Frau’, or ‘Fräulein’ available, the traveller filed a legal complaint in Germany after Ryanair refused to settle the matter privately. The case is now heading to Berlin’s state court, where the claimant is also demanding Ryanair modernise its booking system to include gender-neutral options. In recent years, several major airlines have taken steps towards greater inclusivity. Following recommendations from the International Air

Transport Association in 2019, United Airlines became the first US airline to introduce non-binary booking options. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, and Air New Zealand have since followed suit, allowing customers to select titles like ‘Mx’ and gender markers such as ‘X’ or ‘U’. The shift has extended beyond booking forms. Airlines including Lufthansa now avoid gender-specific greetings like ‘ladies and gentlemen’, opting for inclusive alternatives such as ‘dear guests’ to ensure all passengers feel welcome.

Ryanair, however, has yet to implement similar changes, despite offering a wide array of titles ranging from ‘Mr’ to ‘Viscount’. The outcome of the legal challenge could push the budget carrier to align with industry trends.

One of the brown bears at Arcturos Sanctuary enjoying the first rays of spring after waking from hibernation.

Credit Shutterstock, Fanouria

Credit : Shutterstock, Mounir Taha

SUPERFOODS are nutrient-dense foods that are particularly beneficial for health and well-being. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients, these foods provide a wide range of health benefits when included in a balanced diet. Popular superfoods include berries, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

One well-known superfood is blue-

Superfoods

berries, which are rich in antioxidants and are linked to improved brain function and heart health. Kale, a dark leafy green, is high in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as fibre, supporting the immune system and digestion. Chia seeds

STRENGTH training and endurance training are two distinct forms of exercise, each offering unique benefits for the body. While both can improve overall fitness, they focus on different aspects of physical health.

are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein, promoting heart health and aiding in weight management.

Superfoods like avocados provide healthy fats that are beneficial for skin

and brain health, while quinoa offers a plant-based source of complete protein. Including these foods in your diet can reduce inflammation, boost energy levels, and improve overall health. Though no single food can guarantee perfect health, incorporating a variety of superfoods into daily meals can enhance vitality and prevent chronic diseases.

Strength vs Endurance

Strength training involves lifting weights or using resistance to build muscle mass, strength, and power. The goal is to improve the ability of muscles to generate for-

ce. It typically consists of shorter, more intense bursts of activity, such as lifting heavy weights in a low-repetition range.

The benefits of strength training include increased

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muscle mass, improved bone density, better posture, and enhanced metabolism. It also plays a key role in injury prevention by strengthening muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Endurance training, on the other hand, focuses on improving the body’s ability to sustain prolonged physical activity. This includes activities like running, cycling, swimming, or long-distance walking, typically performed at moderate intensity over an extended period. Endurance training enhances cardiovascular health, increases stamina, and improves lung capacity. It also helps with fat burning and boosts overall energy levels.

Hair, skin, and nails

ACHIEVING healthy hair, skin, and nails requires more than just external care - what you put inside your body matters too. Certain supplements can promote stronger hair, smoother skin, and more resilient nails.

Biotin is one of the most popular supplements for all three. This B-vitamin is essential for keratin production, a protein that supports hair, skin, and nails. Biotin can help improve hair thickness, reduce hair loss, and promote nail growth.

Collagen is another powerful supplement, particularly for skin and hair. Collagen peptides help maintain skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote hydration. For

hair, collagen strengthens the hair follicles, reducing breakage and supporting growth.

Vitamin C is crucial for skin and hair health. It helps boost collagen production and protects the skin from environmental damage by fighting free radicals. It aids in the absorption of iron, an essential mineral for hair growth. For nails, zinc is an important supplement. It supports protein synthesis and cell growth, which are critical for strong, healthy nails. Zinc also helps repair damaged skin and promotes skin cell turnover, preventing acne and other skin issues.

Finally, Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil or flaxseed oil can hydrate

Healthy living with arthritis

ARTHRITIS, a condition characterised by inflammation of the joints, can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling, making daily activities challenging.

However, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Exercise is essential for those with arthritis. Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and reduce pain. Low-impact exercises are ideal for minimising stress on the joints while maintaining flexibility and strength.

Balanced nutrition also plays a crucial role in managing arthritis. Anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), nuts, seeds, and leafy greens can help reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in these foods, are particularly beneficial in alleviating joint pain. Staying hydrated is equally important to keep the joints lubricated and reduce stiffness.

Weight management is another key factor in managing arthritis. Carrying excess weight puts additional strain on wei-

the skin, reduce inflam mation, and give your hair and nails a healthy shine. Combining these su pplements with a healthy diet and proper skincare routine can improve health.

ght-bearing joints, like the hips and knees. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce stress on these joints, easing pain.

Credit: Shutterstock / Irina Bg

Costa Blanca North MABS fundraising feat

The MABS Cancer Support Foundation has been raising funds to support cancer patients and their families since 1999. In 2024 their network of five shops, 335 selfless volunteers and their local communities raised €380,000. The astounding amount of money helped 525 cancer patients, with just over half of the donations, 51 per cent, being spent on nursing, 22 per cent, translation services and 11 per cent being used to fund equipment for those who desperately need it.

Representatives from the charity said that money raised would continue to be “used for various programmes aimed at improving the day-to-day life of cancer patients and their families, from providing them with means of transport to taking them to treatments etc.”

MABS help patients of all nationalities living in the Costa Blanca and the Costa Calida, and has charity shops in Alfaz del Pi, Javea, Oliva, San Javier and Totana all run by volunteers.

Axarquia

A young talent’s triumph

MATÍAS CAMPOS, from Alcaucin, won the inaugural final of the Desplante Juvenil competition held at The Mining Museum of La Unión, in Murcia Province. The event was part of the International Meeting of Flamenco and Spanish Dance Schools, celebrating young talent in the art form.

“Matías Campos keeps winning awards,” stated Alcaucin Town Hall on its social media. Campos is a 15-year-old young flamenco dancer, who won in 2023 Tierra de Talentos reality show. His performance is so good that, during one of his shows, the famous dancer Antonio Canales stood up and said, “He makes Andalucia stay alive.”

The final in La Union saw competitors give their all, demonstrating promising talent. The other finalists, beside Matías Campos, were Paula Cabrera (Murcia), Rubén Guerrero (Malaga), and Claudia Sánchez (Madrid).

Ultimately, Matías Campos claimed victory, captivating the audience and the jury with his strength, expressiveness, and authenticity.

Mallorca

Business optimism

ACCORDING to a study conducted by KPMG and the CEOE, seven out of 10 Spanish business owners anticipate an increase in their turnover in 2025. This optimism is more pronounced in the Balearic Islands, where eight out of 10 businesses expect to see an increase in sales this year. Furthermore, 42 per cent of executives plan to expand their workforce, surpassing the figures from 2024.

The sectors most likely to benefit include insurance, tourism, banking, and real estate, with 80 per cent of respondents rating the current situation as good or excellent. However, in the automotive sector, the percentage of optimistic business owners drops to just 20 per cent.

The Balearic Islands, Andalucia, and Aragon are the regions where the most business owners and executives expect to increase their turnover, while Galicia, Madrid, the Balearic Islands, and Aragon show the best job creation forecasts.

Costa Blanca South Broadening horizons

THE Costa Blanca is making waves as a must-visit destination, attracting visitors from around the world.

Recently, a group of Chinese journalists and influencers, with millions of social media followers, explored Elche’s rich cultural heritage.

Alicante, too, is stepping into the spotlight with a series of visits from international tour operators and journalists throughout March and April.

Italy’s Evolution Travel will also send agents to explore Alicante as a family-friendly destination.

Meanwhile, travel journalists from New York will discover the city’s best experiences and share them with American audiences, a market that continues to show growing interest in Alicante.

Ten MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) specialists from the UK will tour Alicante. Their goal is to organise world-class business events and incentive trips that put Alicante on the global business tourism map.

Almeria

Food lovers delight

GARRUCHA is preparing to welcome food lovers to one of its most eagerly awaited gastronomic events, the eighth Ruta de la Tapa, running from Friday, March 28 to Sunday, April 6. The town’s restaurants and bars will offer a spectacular selection of tapas, showcasing the finest local ingredients and the creativity of the region’s chefs.

The Ruta de la Tapa has become a hallmark of Garrucha’s culinary scene, drawing locals and visitors alike to experience its rich gastronomic heritage. Participants will be able to explore the town, sampling the best culinary creations and engaging in the lively atmosphere that makes Garrucha’s food culture so special.

Visitors can take part by visiting the participating restaurants and bars in Garrucha, each of which will serve a specially prepared tapa. For €3.50, guests can enjoy a tapa accompanied by a drink, choosing from beer, wine, or a soft drink.

Diners will also have the opportunity to rate their favourite tapas.

Costa Calida Record numbers

HOTELS in the Region of Murcia had their best start to the year, welcoming more visitors and overnight stays than ever before. In January and February 2025, 184,658 travellers stayed in the region’s hotels, a 7.1 per cent increase from the same period in 2024. This growth was much higher than Spain’s national average of 1.2 per cent, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE). More Spanish tourists visited Murcia, with 144,526 domestic travellers, up 6.5 per cent from last year. The number of international visitors also increased, reaching 40,132, a 9.4 per cent rise, compared to Spain’s overall growth of 2.5 per cent. February was a particularly strong month, with 100,792 visitors, setting a new record for that month. Hotel prices also rose slightly, with the average daily room rate at €64.79, up 1.5 per cent from 2024.

Tourism officials say these figures show Murcia is becoming a year-round destination.

TIP ‘Windows to Wellness’

DOGS need mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and help keep cognitive dysfunction syndrome at bay. Interaction with other dogs and play time are a couple of ways to keep dogs mentally fit.

Lupa needs dog-sitters to care for her at home

LUPA is a mature West Highland Terrier. She needs daily medication and so travelling with her owners is getting harder. So she needs dog-sitters to come to her home to care for her when her owners travel away on holiday or for work. It helps the homeowners that the dog-sitters will also care for the home and don’t charge for the house and dog-sitting.

HouseSitMatch saves you money

We promote collaborative exchange through our managed online system - free accommodation for free pet care! It’s a real win win!

HouseSitMatch is safe - All members are checked

All members are checked for safety, and you choose which house-sitters come to care for your pets in your absence.

Your pets stay at home - safe and undisturbed

All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed.

If you’re planning travel this year, join now. Get organised today:

1. Register as a house-sitter or a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com

2. Join for as little as £89 / €99 per year

3. Create a profile with photos 4. Sitters apply for the available house-sits, you hold a video interview via the site and match!

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Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then house-sitters build a profile and homeowners build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond and you choose from the applicants.

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HouseSitMatch’s professional approach and secure platform allowed me to have confidence in the people who applied to look after my dog. All sitters are checked and referenced before they can approach available ‘sits’, so I found it easy to select the person based on their likelihood of getting on with my pet and our home location.

How do you join? Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

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Need a pet or house-sitter? House-sitting is a win-win, free house and pet-sitting exchanged for free accommodation!

Allergy advice

IF your pet is constantly scratching, sneezing, or experiencing skin irritation, allergies may be the culprit. Just like humans, pets can suffer from environmental,

food, or flea allergies. Understanding the cause and providing relief is essential for their well-being.

Identify the allergen: Common triggers include

pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and flea bites. A visit to the vet can help determine the cause through allergy testing or elimination diets.

Adjust their diet: Food allergies often cause skin issues and digestive problems. Switching to a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet may reduce symptoms.

Maintain a clean environment: Regularly vacuu-

washing pet bedding can help reduce environmental allergens like pollen and dust.

Provide relief: Medicated shampoos, hypoallergenic wipes, and vet-prescribed antihistamines or allergy medications can soothe symptoms. If fleas are the issue, use proper flea prevention treatments.

With the right care and veterinary guidance, your pet can live a happier,

Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergies.

As a mature dog Lupa prefers staying at home, and needs dog-sitters.

ACE OF SHADES

Cracking down on seatbelt violations

POLICE across Spain recently stepped up seatbelt and child restraint checks as part of a nationwide safety campaign by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT). The aim of the initiative which ran until Sunday, March 16, was to prevent road fatalities by ensuring all passengers were properly restrained.

The Guardia Civil’s Traffic Division and Local Police conducted random checks on urban and interurban roads, while helicopters, drones, and automated cameras monitored compliance.

Failing to wear a seatbelt or use a child restraint system (SRI) correctly can result in a €200 fine and four licence points. In 2024, 157 people died on interurban roads due to not wearing a seatbelt, accounting for 26.8 per cent of car and van fatalities.

The campaign was part of the broader RoadPol European safety initiative, reinforcing the importance of proper restraints in reducing injury risks. Spanish law requires

children under 135 cm to use an approved SRI, though experts recommend extending this to 150 cm. Studies show that up to 90 per cent of serious or fatal child injuries could be prevented with correct use. Rear-facing seats - compulsory until 15 months - offer even greater protection. The DGT will release final figures now that the campaign has ended. Last year, over 10,000 penalties were issued in a similar operation. With this increased enforcement, authorities hope to see a positive change, ensuring more drivers and passengers take these essential safety measures.

Points system

SPAIN operates a points-based driving licence system, where drivers start with points and lose them for traffic offences. Unlike systems where points are added as penalties, Spain’s approach rewards safe driving and punishes repeat offenders.

Experienced drivers, those who have held their licence for more than three years, begin with 12 points. New drivers, those with less than three years of experience, start with eight points and must demonstrate good driving behaviour to reach the standard 12.

Drivers lose points for committing traffic violations. Some offences result in the loss of just two points, while serious infractions can take away six points in one go.

Speeding can result in the loss of two to six points, depending on how

much over the limit the driver was going. Using a mobile phone while driving now carries a sixpoint penalty. Drink-driving results in a deduction of four or six points, depending on blood alcohol levels. Dangerous overtaking and running a red light both result in a fourpoint loss. Not wearing a seatbelt also leads to a four-point deduction.

Once a driver reaches zero points, their licence is revoked. To get it back, they must complete a

road safety course, which costs more than €400, and pass a new driving test.

If a driver avoids committing any violations for three years, their total points are restored to 12. If they already have 12 points, driving safely for another three years increases their total to 15 points, which is the maximum allowed.

A driver can also take a road safety course every two years to recover up to six points.

Spain’s Driving Licence Points System: How it works.

Spain’s DGT intensifies seatbelt and child restraint checks.

Skoda Kamiq Design Edition launched

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

ŠKODA is building on the success of its Kamiq range by adding a new trim level to the already comprehensive line-up. The new Design Edition is a trim level that has proved a popular choice in the updated Fabia range, is positioned between the existing SE Edition and SE L Edition models and takes the total number of trim options for Kamiq up to four. Created to appeal to design-conscious customers, the specification of the new Design Edition is aimed at delivering a striking look while maximising value for money.

Building on the specification of the Kamiq SE Edition, the new Design Edition is equipped with 17-inch Propus aero alloy wheels, black roof and door mirrors and privacy glass as standard. Inside, there are sports seats, cloth and microsuede uphols -

tery, a three-spoke sports steering wheel and red trim on the dash board. Am bient lighting, black headli ning and alu minium pedals complete the interior specifi cation.

The new edition is available with two engines and three drivetrain options. The 1.0 TSI 95PS and 1.0 TSI 116PS engines feature a manual gearbox as standard with the higher output unit also available with a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. The CO2 outputs range from 122g/ km for the 1.0 TSI 116PS manual to 126g/km for the 1.0 TSI 116PS DSG. In terms of efficiency, the 1.0 TSI 95PS model returns 5.44L/100km (51.9mpg) in combined driving while the 1.0 TSI 116PS manual returns a very slightly more economical

(50.6mpg).

Despite a pretty comprehensive specification, prices for the new Kamiq Design Edition start from €30,858/£25,855 for the 1.0 TSI 95PS model, rising to €33,567/£28,185 OTR for the 1.0 TSI 116PS DSG model.

The popularity of SUVs filtered down to smaller models a long time ago, not all are overly large gas guzzlers as some may have you believe, and the higher driving posi -

a car. They also afford better visibility for the driver, and passengers, when on the road.

Skoda offer three all-electric SUVs and three combustion engine models, with both petrol and diesel plus all-wheel-drive options. Unlike some manufacturers they also still offer straight forward hatchbacks and estates, the latter of which are especially commodious, and plug-in hybrid options. It’s fair to say they pretty much have all bases covered!

ANDALUCIA WALKING FOOTBALL LEAGUE

DESPITE the continuing rain last week, several games went ahead and weather prospects now look more favourable!

AWFL Over 50s

Nerja 1 v 2 AC Benahavis

This match was a tight affair, with the visitors edging the better of the chances, only to be repeatedly thwarted by home keeper Bryan Flynn. An eventual lapse in concentration allowed Benahavis to capitalise on a rebound to take the lead before the break. Nerja were only really able to manage long range shots until Tony Deacon brought them level with a confident penalty strike. Nerja missed the chance to go ahead when Deacon dragged his second penaty attempt wide. Close to full time, the visitors struck again with a well-worked move and superb shot into the top corner to seal all three points for Benahavis.

AWFL Over 60s

Sporting Benahavis 1 v 3 Real Calahonda

Sporting began by taking the game to the visitors but were unlucky to go behind to a deflected goal awarded to Steve Muschamp. The hosts pressed for an equaliser and were arguably unfortunate to go in 0-1 down at half time. After the break, both teams seemed to cancel each other out,

until a swift turn and snap-shot from Sporting’s Charles Kleimunt drew the sides level. With only 10 minutes to go, Calahonda continued to press and scored two quick goals, thus sealing the victory.

Nerja Utd. 2 v 3 AC Benahavis

The game began at a frantic pace, with both teams testing the two keepers. Nerja struck first with Tony Wells pouncing on a defensive error and slotting into the bottom corner. After hitting the crossbar twice, Benahavis replied with a splendidly-placed shot and took the lead. A third goal for the visitors came from a Nerja goal kick, as AC contiued to press. However, the home side fought back and Wells scored his second, finishing off a slick counter-attack. Both sides had chances towards the end but Benahavis held firm to seal the win.

AC Benahavis Over 65s at Eurocopa

As mentioned recently, AC Benahavis Over 65s travelled to the Algarve to defend their Eurocopa Cup, won in 2024 in its inaugural year. Completing a tough first round of matches (W 4 D1 L2), they progressed to the quarter finals where they were sadly defeated by Bolton, who went on to win the Cup. See you next week!

Camp Nou delay

BARCELONA have confirmed that their return to the iconic Spotify Camp Nou will be postponed until next season at the earliest.

The club’s redevelopment project has faced multiple setbacks, with fans now told that the team will continue playing at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys for the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign. Initial hopes had centred on a comeback by late 2024, then February 2025, and later May - with whispers of an El Clasico marking

1st woman IOC head

KIRSTY COVENTRY has just shattered the glass ceiling to become the rst woman to be named the head of the International Olympic Committee in its 130-year history.

The Zimbabwean swimming champ came out on top to replace Thomas Bach, taking the top job in world sport. “It’s a signal that we’re truly global and that we have evolved into an organisation that is truly open to diversity, and we’re going to continue,” she said on Thursday, March 20, in Athens.

Coventry clinched the position, leaving candidate Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr in second place, followed by Sebastian Coe in third. She said that she would spend the next few months working with Thomas Bach to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities and to exchange some key ideas.

Seen as a controversial choice, Coventry has been outspoken with her views on transgender people in single-sex sports, arguing that sports should be categorised by the biological sex of an athlete and not what gender they identify as.

Reported by the Telegraph, she said she wanted to “ensure fairness in women’s sport and maintain the integrity

of women’s categories.” Coventry highlighted the dangers of allowing male-born athletes to compete in women’s categories.

The seven-time Olympic medallist was invited to the IOC’s Athletes’ Commission in 2012, and her election to the presidency heralds a new era for the committee, with expectations that she will bring a fresh perspective to pressing issues such as athlete rights.

Ferrari disqualified

Barcelona’s return to the renovated Camp Nou has been delayed until next season, forcing the club to stay longer at Estadi Olimpic.

the occasion.

Bahrain 2024.

cal regulations.

However, Barcelona have now updated their Socios, saying the wait will extend into the next season. The club has avoided a logistical headache after a series of concerts scheduled at the Estadi Olimpic this summer were cancelled, allowing them to extend their lease at the temporary venue. Despite the stadium being a valuable short-term solution, attendance figures have fallen short compared to the sell-out crowds typically seen at Camp Nou.

FERRARI drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc were disqualified from the Chinese Grand Prix that took place on March 23. This means that, unbelievably, Ferrari missed out on scoring any points towards that all-important Constructors Championship.

In the case of Lewis Hamilton, the reason for his disqualification has been cited as an issue with the rearmost-skid. A Technical Delegate’s report highlighted that when the skid wear of Hamilton’s car was checked following the end of the Chinese Grand Prix, the rear-most skid was found to be below the minimum 9mm thickness required. In a Ferrari double-disappointment, Charles Leclerc also received a post-race disqualification when his car was found to be below the minimum weight required by the techni-

More specifically, the report that followed a steward’s inquiry stated Leclerc’s SF-25 was 1kg below the minimum weight. In an added twist, the Alpine car driven by Pierre Gasly was also found to be under the required weight, leading to disqualification for him too.

With Leclerc, and Hamilton originally finishing in P5 and P6, respectively, drivers from P7 to P10 all benefited. This meant Esteban Ocon, newcomer Kimi Antonelli, birthday boy Alex Albon, and the other newcomer, Ollie Bearman, all shifted up two positions and secured extra points for their teams.

Finally, as Pierre Gasly had originally finished in P11, both Lance Stroll and Carlos Sainz also ended up taking home points by moving into the top 10.

Hamilton and Leclerc,

Credit: Shutterstock: Jay Hirano

Credit : Shutterstock, Yuri Turkov

Kirsty Coventry speaking at IOC meeting, Thailand.