News
The people’s paper Issue No. 1877
24 - 30 June 2021
Smoother ride THE Diputacion council will spend €509,000 on improving 300 roads in 80 Alicante Province municipalities whose populations do not top 5,000. These include Formentera, Daya Vieja, Daya Nueva, Granja de Rocamora, San Isidro, Benferri, Algorfa and Benijofar, where potholes will be repaired and weeds cut back to improve visibility.
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IN THE PINK
Dozing snake A VIDEO of a metre-and-a-half ladderback snake spotted snoozing in one of River Vinalopo’s retaining walls near Elche’s Puente de la Virgen bridge soon went viral. Experts explained that these snakes are common in the area, but are also harmless and pose no danger to the public.
Washed up ALICANTE City’s Local Police, alerted by a Tabarca resident, went to the island to inspect a large package discovered on the shore. They found it contained 70 packets of hashish, each split into five tablets weighing 500 grammes, which are now in the keeping of Santa Pola’s Guardia Civil.
Flying high THE memory of the late Orihuelaborn poet Miguel Hernandez is now officially incorporated into Alicante airport’s name following a ceremony attended by Jose Luis Abalos, Spain’s Public Works minister. Also present was Hernandez’s daughter-in-law Lucia Izquierdo who thanked those who had made the change possible.
Photo credit: Maria Wilson
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INDEFATIGABLE FUNDRAISERS: The Pink Ladies and Panthers take on the fight against cancer.
FREE • GRATIS
Vega Baja flood protection REGIONAL government officials working on Plan Vega Renhace re‐ cently inspected the River Segura upstream and downstream from Orihuela. They were there to assess the current state of the river following the repairs and restoration that were necessary after the storms caused by the Upper Level Isolated Depression (DANA) of Septem‐ ber 2019. Their visit preceded publication of the 2021‐2027 Plan Hidrologico del Segura that will set out Generalitat measures to min‐ imise risks and protect the Vega Baja from a repetition of the 2019 catastrophe whose effects are still being felt. Together with work at the Tabala dam in Beniel (Murcia), this en‐ visages increasing the Santomera reservoir’s intake of water from the River Chicamo and Abanilla watercourse, as well constructing controlled flood plains and corridors.
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Palm forest’s future guardians MORE than 500 Orihuela pupils visited the local Palmeral palm forest last week. They were taken there so they could learn first-hand about the Palmeral’s history and wildlife and see for themselves the activities that are car-
ried out in the palm forest, which is now a protected Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC). The city’s Environment councillor Damaso Aparicio was there to greet each party, impressing upon them how important the pupils were to the
palm forest. “They represent the future of our city,” Aparicio said afterwards. “Through these visits, which will recommence during the next school year, we are ensuring that pupils get to know the Palmeral and are aware of its importance so that they take good care of it.” Aparicio went on to explain that Orihuela City Hall was inviting all local schools and high schools to include visits in their 2021-2022 timetables. “The visits will be more than an outing and will help to widen their studies in respecting and looking after the environment.”
EL PALMERAL: School visits are more than just an outing.
SANTA POLA will celebrate Gay Pride day on Monday June 28 with talks and a workshop on ur‐ ban art. The town hall’s Equality, Cul‐ ture and Youth departments are collaborating on the ‘Inclusive Santa Pola, proud Santa Pola’ programme as well as a cam‐ paign that includes posters and videos. “These will focus on equality, solidarity, respect for sexual, gen‐
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Proud and inclusive der and identity diversity as well as free love,” the councillors ex‐ plained. Equality coordinators from Santa Pola schools and high schools will also be taking part in the campaign, municipal sources revealed. The first talk at 7pm in the Mu‐ nicipal Library on June 28 will
centre on ‘How to come out of the closet in the 60s, 80s and 2000s,’ organised by the Asocia‐ cion Entendemos LGTBI (Let’s Understand LGTBI) and featuring Roberto Robertina, Carlos Lamm and Jose Valero, who will relate their experiences and Spain’s ad‐ vances in LGTBI rights over the last 50 years.
Thirteen Beach Growers choose Assistants for Pilar solar power PILAR DE LA HORADADA has taken on 13 beach assis‐ tants, announced Jose Maria Perez, the local mayor. They will be present on the town’s beaches until September 17, ensuring that beachgoers observe anti‐ Covid health and safety regulations and, in a departure from last year, also providing general information. All are aged between 18 and 30 and, before applying for posts, were registered job‐seekers. “The town hall has had to make a considerable effort to cover the cost of ensuring that Pilar de la Horadada has safe beaches this summer,” Perez explained. In another departure from last year, when the scheme was first introduced and entirely funded by the regional government, the town hall is contributing €34,324 towards cost of the beach assistants’ wages and social security payments while the remaining €57,978 will be covered by the Generalitat.
AGRICULTURAL growers in the Vega Baja are turning increasingly to solar‐ powered pumps for their irrigation systems. Both gasoil and electricity, most‐used in the past, now cost more and the last hike by the power companies has been the last straw for many growers, ex‐ plained Jose Vicente Andreu from Ori‐ huela, who is also the Asaja farmers’ union president. Solar power is a great opportunity for small growers and the big combines, Andreu said, with solar panels gradually appearing all over southern Alicante where more land is devoted to agricul‐ ture and there are more hours of sun.
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NIBS EXTRA All agreed ORIHUELA City Council ratified the boundary between Orihuela and Rafal designated by Valencia’s Cartography Institute during the June plenary meeting. The boundary was a “historically sensitive” issue now resolved by the official body which confirmed the limits first defined in 1897, said Urban Development councillor Jose Aix.
All change JUAN JOSE VICENTE from the Alternativa Por Catral party has been sworn as mayor of Catral following the resignation of Inma Ubeda. The substitution was in line with an agreement between both parties following the results of the 2019 municipal elections when they agreed to form a coalition.
Disco cases SIXTY of 90 Covid cases in the Torrevieja health district were directly linked to the Noisse discotheque. On detecting the outbreak, the authorities recommended PCR tests for those who had been there, but despite the rise in cases, practically all involve minors with mild symptoms not needing hospitalisation.
July date THE regional government’s Public Works department announced that widening the Valverde section of the CV-865 connecting Elche and Santa Pola will be finished by late July. Most of the €2 million project is now completed but tarmacking has been held up while the overhead telephone cables are resited.
Exports up VALENCIAN Community exported €10.9 billion of regional products during the first four months of this year, a 15 per cent increase on the same period in 2020. Agro-foods headed the list, followed by semi-manufactured, non-chemical products with the automotive sector making a hoped-for recovery in third place.
Party’s over PILAR DE LA HORADADA’S Local Police fined 200 people after receiving a tip-off that an unauthorised evening party with music was taking place. All health and safety regulations were ignored and there were extra fines for the 47 partygoers who left their cars in a ‘no parking’ zone.
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Rojales to the rescue THE Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre expressed thanks and appreciation to Rojales Town Hall for a €6,000 grant. This the third year running that Rojales has provided financial help for Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre’s founders, Rod and Sue Weeding, in caring for their 122 horses, ponies and donkeys. “Rojales has been the only council to recognise, support and help us over the years and we can’t thank them enough,” Sue added. “We feel very lucky to be part of the Rojales community. They
ROJALES GRANT: Town hall chips in for the third consecutive year. have always been there for us and whenever we have needed anything they have tried to find ways to help us.”
Whilst they can never thank Rojales enough, it is still just a drop in the ocean to how much money the Rescue Centre re-
quires to survive. Over the years Rod and Sue have spent more than €1.7 million caring for their animals and much of this has come from their own pockets. The rest is thanks to the selfless work of the many volunteers and donations from supporters and Rojales Town Hall. “It’s amazing how many people have helped us to make a difference and we will continue to do so in every way we can.” For more information about the Rescue Centre or to donate, visit www.easyhorsecare.net.
So whose dish is it in the end? ORIHUELA chefs and home cooks com‐ plained that Elche is commandeering their Arroz con Costra. This rice dish, which vague‐ ly resembles paella and has a crust of beaten egg, was first made in Orihuela around 1220. The recipe stipulating rabbit, chicken, sausages, water, olive oil, salt, saffron and eggs is still safeguarded by the nuns of the Santisima Trinidad convent, explained the
Not exactly a cottage industry THE deaths of four prisoners in the Murcia II prison eventually led Guardia Civil investigators to a Bi‐ gastro hashish factory. They had died of heroin and co‐ caine overdoses and the Guardia Civil’s director general Maria Gamez recently revealed during a visit to Murcia how the subsequent en‐ quiry pinpointed a prisoner with a long history of drug dealing. Officers from the EDOA anti‐ drugs unit discovered that he had an extensive network of outside contacts, one of whom had served a four‐year sentence in the same prison. Not only did this second suspect recruit people to smuggle drugs into the prison, but he also maintained a small‐scale distribution network, dealing cocaine and hashish in the exterior. Surveillance into one of his dis‐ tributors led them to Bigastro, where they found the hashish pro‐ cessing factory, one of the first ever to be found in Spain. The Guardia Civil made six arrests in both Bigastro and Murcia, confis‐ cating 8.3 tons of marihuana and al‐ so impounding the industrial ma‐ chinery used to produce hashish resin.
city’s Asociacion de Hosteleros. This is the same dish presented to the Catholic Monar‐ chs when they visited Orihuela in 1488. While there is no disagreement over the dish itself, which is a Vega Baja favourite, no‐ body in Orihuela is complaining as Elche City Hall has asked the Generalitat’s Culture de‐ partment to designate Arroz con Costra as an Asset of Intangible Cultural Interest.
What rankled was Elche City Hall spokesman Hector Diez’s reference to Arroz con Costra as ‘an Elche dish par excellence’ dating back to 1520. The city’s shopkeepers and restaurateurs’ association ACMO is now collecting signa‐ tures calling on Orihuela City Hall to make an official claim to the Arroz con Costra’s Desig‐ nation of Origin.
Upturn in cyber-bullying FIFTY of the region’s 116 cyber‐bullying cases re‐ ported during the 2019‐2020 school year were registered in Alicante Province. According to Generalitat’s department of Edu‐ cation, reported cases of online aggression in‐ creased overall in the Valencian Community’s schools and high schools by roughly 33 per cent, but by 39 per cent in Alicante Province. In contrast, there was less face‐to‐face bullying, which dropped by 25 per cent regionally and by 27 per cent in Alicante Province. Experts involved in the KiVa anti‐bullying pro‐
gramme developed in Finland, but now used in‐ ternationally and in Alicante Province, pointed out that the most recent investigations were carried out during lockdown. There had been an inevitable reduction in bul‐ lying at school, they agreed, but this was substitut‐ ed by cyberbullying. “Levels of long‐distance bullying have been maintained. Those who were habitually bullied are still subjected to it online,” declared the pro‐ fessor of psychology Cristina Salmivalli wo leads the KiVa programme.
Knock-on effect if no water IF water reaching the Vega Baja via the Tajo‐Segura pipeline is reduced, not only agricul‐ ture could feel the pinch. The cutback ‐ introduced to provide a greater flow in the River Tajo in Aranjuez (Madrid) ‐ could also affect the property and construction sector. The municipalities that receive Tajo‐Segura water move an annual €6 billion thanks to residen‐ tial tourism and property sales that provide thousands of jobs, pointed out Provia, the associa‐ tion representing Alicante Province’s property and real estate agents. A reduction could delay or halt projects should there not be suffi‐ cient water, maintained Provia’s sec‐ retary general Jesualdo Ros. The Confederacion Hidrografica del AGE CONCERN Costa Blanca Sur is looking for volun‐ Segura water board would have to teers who can help people with their shopping. give the thumbs‐down to future pro‐ “Can you spare a couple of hours a week to help jects and promotions, Ros said. someone less able than you?” the organisation asked. Although he did not foresee a re‐ “If you can, please get in touch on 966 786 887.” turn to a situation like that of 30 years For more information about Age Concern Costa with cuts and water shortages, pro‐ Blanca Sur, visit the www.ageconcerncostablancasur. jects and jobs could definitely be af‐ org website or their Facebook page. fected, he warned.
Lend a hand
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Age Concern, Costa Calida A LT H O U G H t h e r e i s no specific date as yet, Age Concern Cos‐ ta Calida are planning a fundraising lunch party in July. This will be held at the newly‐opened Club Playa Grande (formerly Copi Coy) in Puerto de Mazarron. Once there are more de‐ tails this will be an‐ nounced on the Age Concern Costa Calida Facebook page. The organisation is urgently seeking a new Volunteer Co‐or‐ dinator as well as Volunteer Drivers in the Camposol, Coun‐ try Club and Condado areas to help with GP and hospital visits. This may only re‐ quire a morning or so now and again when volunteers are free, but can be so impor‐ tant to those who can no longer drive due to ailing health or eyesight problems. Fuel expenses are re‐ imbursed. “Do please think about joining our team, by emailing at ageconcerncostacali da@gmail.com or give Isabel Stewart a call on 634 344 589,” Age Concern said. Regular monthly activities at the Drop‐ in Centre (Calle Va‐ lencia 12, Camposol A, Mazarron) are cur‐ rently on hold, but Age Concern are still there for advice and information, shop‐ ping and medicine collection. The centre is currently open ev‐ ery Tuesday between 10am and 1pm. Enquiries (634 344 589); Volunteer Coor‐ dinator (634 312 516). Lifeline Puerto de Mazarron Area (634 325 408). Lines are open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Fri‐ day.
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New Electric Bus THE town hall of Torrevieja has presented a new electric bus which they are set to test out as part of a new project. The URBINO 12 model bus is set to be tested in the town this week as part of the Energy Transition Project that AVANZA is developing on a national level. The city of Torrevieja has chosen to be included in this project. The bus will be tested out on one of the lines in the city with the highest number of travellers and it was presented at the interchange of the Eras de la Sal. The councillor for Transport of Torrevieja, Antonio Vidal, and the director of AVANZA, Luis Gonzalez attended to present the new electric bus, model URBINO 12. According to the town hall: “One of the objectives of this project is to carry out pilot tests of buses with new cleaner technologies to analyse the technical feasibility and technological evolution, and thus obtain a complete analysis
NEW MODEL: To be tested in the city. of the technology that can best adapt to each city depending on different parameters (environmental conditions, geometry of transport lines, service provision conditions, climate), etc.” The URBINO 12 bus is said to produce zero emissions and offer great comfort for travellers. The noise levels are supposed to be very low as well. Being electric the bus will also need to be charged and this will only take around four and a half hours.
Advocates of early detection screening MARIA WILSON and the Pink Ladies and Panthers, now in their 11th year, have raised the unbe‐ lievable amount of just over €500,000. All this cash was raised to help the fight against cancer and was donated firstly to the AECC and more recently to the association’s Alicante Province branch, the AACC. This amazing total would have been reached one year earlier had it not been for the lock‐ downs and restrictions of the last year and a half. All the money raised by Maria and her group of volunteers is used to help in the fight against cancer and to support their early detection screening programme. Maria and her group firmly be‐ lieve that ‘Early Detection Saves Lives,’ and continually encourage Orihuela Costa residents to take full advantage of the pro‐ gramme. “Even through the Covid re‐ strictions we continued to book cancer screening tests for the good people of the Orihuela Cos‐ ta,” Maria said, explaining that they are currently booking over
100 cancer screening tests every month. This is mostly for breast and prostate, but most cancer tests can be booked via the Pink Ladies. Anyone wishing to book an early cancer screening test should either call the Pink Ladies’ office between 10am and 1pm from Monday to Friday (965 329 841), or contact them via their www.pinkladies.es website as well as their Pink Ladies and Pan‐ thers Facebook page. “Or just pop into the office at Flamenca Beach Commercial Centre between 10am or 1pm. Even if you have a concern about cancer come and talk to some‐ one,” Maria said. Like most charities, the Pink Ladies have found it hard in these strange times to raise the much‐ needed funds that support the early detection programme. Nevertheless they have had support from some local bars and organisations who held fund rais‐ ers on their behalf. There have been numerous donations in the office, sometimes from the funer‐ als of those who lost the fight to
this heinous disease in Orihuela Costa and surrounding area. “Fortunately we have events booked, so watch the press and pop down to support us or even book your early‐detection screening test while you are there,” Maria said. “The Pink Ladies and Panthers are all volunteers and absolutely no one receives any payments whatsoever from any monies raised,” she stressed. “All Pink Ladies fundraisers are advertised using the AACC, Early Detection and Pink Ladies Logos.”
Paragliding Goes Wrong A MAN was rescued by the Alicante Provincial Fire Brigade after he had been paragliding. The accident occurred be‐ tween Yecla and Villena in Alicante and the man suf‐ fered from an ankle fracture during the incident. The paragliding accident occurred on Monday, June 14, at around 7pm. The rescue operation pro‐ gressed quickly and they were able to conclude the operation shortly before 9pm. The accident occurred near the CV‐81, between Yecla and Villena. Multiple emergency ser‐ vices units were deployed, including an Alpha rescue helicopter plus rescue group, and firefighters from the El‐ da and Villena fire stations. The helicopter rescue oc‐ curred in the middle of a mountain and the man was safely transferred later to hospital for treatment for his injury.
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UK Embassy Offers Reassurance ‘Shop of the Year’ THE UK Embassy in Madrid has sought to quell a rising tide of anxiety as British expats wonder if Spain has a deadline to secure to residency like France. Short answer: It doesn’t. “Some of you have contacted us about areas of concern around your residency, so we wanted to provide reassurance on two key points,” the Embassy wrote on their popular ‘Brits in Spain’ Facebook page. “Unlike some other countries, such as France, which have a deadline of June 30 for UK Na‐ tionals to secure their residency status, Spain has not set a hard deadline by which UK Nationals must apply for residency under the Withdrawal Agreement. “Of course, you must take steps to apply as soon as possi‐ ble, but if you are waiting for a decision or unable to get an ap‐ pointment, please do not worry. As long as you were legally resi‐ dent before December 31, 2020 you can continue to apply under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement,” it explained. “The second thing to reassure you about is that if you are in
RESIDENCY: You must take steps to apply as soon as possible.
the process of applying for resi‐ dency ‐ perhaps you have sub‐ mitted your documents, are waiting for a decision or are in the process of an appeal ‐ the 90 in 180‐day limit for staying in the Schengen area does not apply to you. “Remember that if you need
CARDS & MORE: The most helpful Community Shop ever!
additional help with applying for residency, there is free support available from three organisa‐ tions funded by the UK Govern‐ ment,” it added. These organisations include the International Organisation for Migration; BabeLia; and Age in Spain.
No Masks Outdoors
SPAIN’S President Pedro Sanchez has confimred the end of masks outdoors from Saturday, June 26. Sánchez said in Barcelona that he will hold the extraordinary Council of Ministers on Thursday June 24 to approve the end of the use of the mask outdoors from Saturday, June 26. “We will enjoy life on the street again without a mask. We are approaching normality without conditions,” said the head of the Executive, stating that this last weekend was the last with a mandatory mask.
THE Urbanisation of La Marina in San Fulgencio has long been a magnet for expats from the United Kingdom and they comprise roughly 75 per cent of the population. In all small communities in the UK, there is the ‘village shop’, the ‘go‐to’ place for this and that and, most of all, for infor‐ mation; Cards & More is that kind of place! Established in 2003 and run by Jason Daniels, his dad, Bob, and mum, Barbara, Cards & More is the focal point of the community on the Urb. for all nationalities. They specialise in greetings cards and are also the local pa‐ per shop, and for those who do not derive huge satisfaction from queu‐ ing, endlessly, at the local Correos office for the privilege of posting a let‐ ter, they have a postal collection service for mail to the UK. But, more than that, they are a mine of information, particularly with regard to mobile phones, and it was in this respect that a local Pilates group consisting mainly of ladies, with the odd man, felt it was time to give this amazing family business the credit it was due. Most, but not all of them had possessed mobile phones for many years, but whenever there was a query relating to their use, it was Jason to whom they would turn. The Pilates Group expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the family for the years of cheerful assistance and attention to the problem, whatev‐ er it might have been, by presenting them with a plaque displaying the message ‘To Jason, Bob and Mum, Barbara, ‐ Cards & More ‐ the warmest, friendliest and most helpful Community Shop ever!’
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EWN And Daily Mail 2,900 Soldiers Prepared
EURO WEEKLY NEWS, Spain’s largest expat paper, has been bringing you the best in news reporting for more than 20 years. And in that time Euro Weekly News’ credibility and popularity for breaking local and national news has grown, with even Lon‐ don’s biggest papers turning to our newsroom for the informa‐ tion they need. On June 21, one of Britain’s most popular newspapers, the Daily Mail, drew on our long‐ standing reputation for the best reporting from the Costa del Sol when it reprised Euro Weekly News’ coverage of the tragic death of Rocio Wanninkhof in La Cala in 1999 in an article about a new Netflix documen‐ tary about the horrific murder. Michel Euesden, the owner and co‐founder of Euro Weekly News, said “I remember the events well and coverage of ev‐ ery aspect of this tragic but grip‐ ping story was a priority in our newsroom. In our 22 years of coverage of southern Spain, from glitzy Marbella to rural Cadiz, this was one of the most
BEST NEWS: Supporting each other. shocking stories we encoun‐ tered. “It remains one of the most high‐profile murders ever on the Costa del Sol and I’m not at all surprised Netflix have made a documentary about it. Euro Weekly News covered every as‐ pect of it, from the initial crime to the conviction of British bar‐ man Tony King for the murder of Rocio and of another young woman, Sonia Carabantes. But not before Dolores Vazquez, the lesbian lover of Rocio’s mother, had served 17 months for the murder when she was wrongly convicted in Spain’s first ever tri‐ al by jury,” Michel added. Murder by the Coast airs on Netflix from June 23.
THE State Coordination Committee (CECOD), announced on Sunday June 20, its annual plan for fighting forest fires in the summer period from June 15 to October 31, 2021, which monitors the Autonomous Communities of Spain most at risk, and Civil Protection and forest management, can provide aircraft, material means, and the UME, as well as Brigades for the Fight against Forest Fires (BRIF). During this campaign, the UME will make a to-
Get it off! Readers ready to get rid of masks WE asked and our readers answered: they are looking forward to the free‐ dom of not having to wear masks out‐ doors from Saturday, June 26. We asked: After 15 months of being forced to wear masks will you feel safer or attain a new sense of purpose and freedom this weekend when they will no longer be necessary outside in Spain? Our readers are happy that wearing masks outdoors will no longer be mandatory so we can get back to ‘nor‐ mal’, but they feel it is safer to continue wearing them in crowded spaces. Meanwhile, readers who have not yet have their second dose of the vac‐
cine say that they are not ready to re‐ move their masks around people, be‐ cause they don’t feel they are protect‐ ed. Some feel that with so many people not yet having had their second jab, it is way too early, and will continue to wear them, especially when there are a lot of people around, even if distance can be maintained. The measure will be approved Thurs‐ day, June 24, Spanish President, Pedro Sanchez announced last week. Andalu‐ cia has finally also gone ahead with the measure, saying that those who wish to do so can remove their masks in open spaces. They were somewhat reticent to the measure.
FOREST FIRES: An annual plan is in place. tal of 1,400 military personnel available in the fight against forest fires, the UME will have logistical and operational support when necessary to carry out an intervention, bringing the total number of available personnel up to 2,900. In addition to its permanent headquarters located in Torrejón de Ardoz, in Madrid, Morón in Sevilla, Bétera in Valencia, Zaragoza and San Andrés de Rabanedo in León, the UME will also have personnel temporarily installed in several other precise detachments off their bases in order to reduce deployment time in case of intervention. The Units, with almost 3,000 Spanish military personnel, have been conducting exercises in preparation for fighting this summer’s inevitable forest fires, working with engineering machinery, mastering the efficient use of water supplied by the fire engines, use of drones, along with joint exercises with the air resources of the 43 Group and BHELEME.
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Spain Receives Billions SPAIN is set to receive €70bn in grants and €70bn in loans in the next five years from the EU over the next five years. The Spanish economy shrank by 10.8 per cent in 2020 and the EU Recovery Fund is ear‐ marked to be distributed to the autonomous regions “quickly and fairly.” Speaking at a joint press con‐
Joint press conference.
Harry May Not Attend Statue Unveiling ROYAL expert Duncan Larcombe has claimed that Harry may not attend the unveiling of the statue in honour of his late mother. The statue is set to be unveiled on July 1, at Kensington Palace. Mr Larcombe believes that Meghan Markle will not attend due to the fact that she has recently given birth to Lilibet. Mr Larcombe emphasised the fact that for the Duke of Sussex London is a ‘trigger’. Prince Harry previously opened up about this in the Apple TV documentary series with Oprah Winfrey. The series has caused much controversy recently for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Meghan gave birth to Lilibet ‘Lili’ Diana in early June and this provides the perfect reason for her to not return to the UK, for the statue unveiling. Mr Larcombe believes that Harry may not attend either as he is on paternity leave.
ference with the EU’s Ursula Von der Leyen in Madrid on June 16, President Pedro Sanchez said, “Our aim is to make sure that the recovery is quick and fair ‐ so that no re‐ gion and no generation is left behind ‐ and that we look to‐ wards the future. This is a na‐ tionwide plan; a plan that in‐ volves all of us. We have an enormous opportunity to mod‐ ernise our country for the gen‐ erations to come. “The plans approved for Por‐ tugal and Spain open the door to a new way of cooperating together and responding to the challenges we face as soci‐ eties,” he added. “These reforms, I’m deeply convinced, will make Spain come out of the pandemic stronger than ever before. Next Generation EU is our unique chance to move forward into a more green, a more digital, a more sustainable society,” Von der Leyen said, noting that 40 per cent of the funds would be driven into the green transi‐ tion.
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More toll roads
A MONTH ago it was mere‐ ly a rumour, however on Friday June 18, it finally be‐ come a reality: there will be tolls on motorways and possibly secondary roads in Spain. It was stated in the Re‐ covery, Transformation and Resilience Plan of Spain which was approved on Wednesday, June 16, that there will be a “payment for use of the high‐capacity
road network” in the report approved by the president of the European Commis‐ sion, Ursula von der Leyen, in the company of the Pres‐ ident, Pedro Sanchez. As reported in the Re‐ silience Plan of Spain, cor‐ responding to point D on Sustainable Infrastructures, the following is stated: “Fi‐ nally, it is necessary to de‐ velop a payment system for use of the high‐capacity
road network that allows us to cover maintenance costs and integrate the negative externalities of road trans‐ port as in other infrastruc‐ tures.” That is, they ratify the implementation of pay‐ ment for use, or toll, on the busiest motorways, and justify it by means of the need to be able to address the maintenance of the state’s road network in this way.
Honours granted by King Felipe KING FELIPE VI granted last Friday, June 18, the Order of Civil Merit to 24 ‘exem‐ plary citizens’ in recognition of their effort and selfless dedication ‘putting the com‐ mon good before their own’, which has been extended to many other compatriots who have also sacrificed for others during the pandemic. Among them was chef Miguel Herrera from Ronda, who during the pandemic led a volunteer programme to help the elderly and people who, due to those hard times were unable to have hot food.
The ceremony took place in the Royal Palace in the presence of Queen Letizia, the Princess of Asturias and one day before the seventh anniversary of the King’s ascension to the throne, a day that states “its impor‐ tance for our parliamentary monarchy, for our democracy, and ultimately, for Spain. “Today is a day for the recognition and gratitude to the people who, with their dai‐ ly work, their effort and their dedication, almost always in silence and without pro‐ tagonism, serve exemplarily the society of which they are part,” explained Don Felipe.
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Spanish Wine tops list SPANISH wine maker, Miguel A Torres, has ap‐ peared in Food & Wine’s first annual Game Changers list. The influential magazine says it is “celebrating the people, products, organisations and movements that have had the most mean‐ ingful impact on the way we eat, drink and live right now.” Torres, together with Jackson Family Wines in California, created International Wineries for Cli‐ mate Action, a group of wineries focused on re‐ ducing carbon emissions across the wine indus‐ try, the magazine notes. “Ecology was always a part of our philosophy. We live from the earth, and we are also a family‐ owned company, so this combination always led us, and still does, to care for our land and re‐ sources. Not just for this generation, but also for future generations,” Torres said. “Between 2008 and 2019, we also reduced our CO2 emissions by 30 per cent per bottle and our plan is now to reach 55 per cent per bottle by 2030, becoming ‘climate positive’ by 2050. “Practically every vine grower in the world was already noticing climate change three decades ago, as vines are very sensitive to temperature shifts. We need to drastically decarbonise our world economy to contain the increase in global temperatures, and this requires the participation of all: governments, countries, sectors, individu‐
WINE: Vines are sensitive to temperature. als. We have to work together,” he added. Food & Wine editor Hunter Lewis said, “We are thrilled to debut this first annual list and share the stories of so many inventive, creative, and forward‐thinking people and organisations. Their innovations are creating positive changes by empowering home cooks with new tools and more sustainable products and by modelling more equitable workplaces and supporting local communities. These people and companies in‐ spire us, and they also inspire future change makers to do great things.”
To read more stories like this go to www.euroweeklynews.com
O’Leary Calls UK ‘Shambolic’ THE boss of Europe’s largest budget airline has hit out at what he calls “Boris Johnson’s mismanagement of the Covid pandemic” and demanded that vaccinated travellers be able to fly between the UK and EU without any restrictions. Ryanair’s chief executive,
Michael O’Leary, said: “The UK’s Covid travel policy is a shambles. The green list is non‐ existent because countries such as Malta and Portugal, with lower Covid case numbers than the UK and rapidly rising vacci‐ nation rates, remain on amber. “Meanwhile, UK citizens, al‐
Decathlon Recall Product SPORTING brand Decathlon have issued a recall for a chil‐ dren’s product that is not considered to be safe. According to their safety team they have discovered a defect in the Olaian brand’s Boardshort BBS 500 KID swim‐ ming costumes. The defect is said to be in the drawstring which is integrated and believe that it poses a possible risk of snagging. According to a Facua report, Decathlon has stated that the article in question has the reference numbers 8518136, 2609002, 2609003, 2609004 and 2609005. The batches with these numbers were sold from March 11, 2019. The company has issued a safety warning on its website stating that if the waist strap is longer than 14 centimetres, please discontinue use. It also indicates that, if in doubt, they should visit one of its shops or call its free phone num‐ ber (900 100 903).” Decathlon have commented on refunds and said that: “if you return your defective product to a Decathlon shop, a refund will be made.”
most 80 per cent of whom will be vaccinated by the end of June, continue to face Covid re‐ strictions on travel to and from the European Union ‐ despite the fact that the majority of EU citizens will also be vaccinated by the end of June.” The controversial boss of Ryanair called for a “pragmatic travel policy” which permits vaccinated UK and EU citizens to travel between the UK and the EU without the need for quarantine or negative PCR tests. “This will at least allow the UK tourism industry to plan for what is left of the summer sea‐ son and get hundreds of thou‐ sands of people back to work,” O’Leary added. “It is time for Boris Johnson to end his gross mismanage‐ ment of Covid and the recovery from Covid, and take advantage of the UK’s successful vaccine programme to allow the restoration of free movement of vaccinated UK citizens and their families to and from the EU, where Covid case rates are lower than the UK and vaccina‐ tion rates are rising rapidly.”
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Digital Covid Certificate Bed Sheet Could Save lives
THE digital Covid certificate is now in use in 12 EU countries and 16 more are ready to introduce it soon. According to the European Par‐ liament the certificates must be available to travellers by July 1. As it stands, 12 countries, including
Spain, are running ahead of schedule. The certificate was approved by the European Commission in May to regulate Covid‐19 entry re‐ quirement across the EU. The free mobile app supplies on‐demand digital proof of a per‐
son’s vaccination against the coro‐ navirus, a recent negative test re‐ sult or proof they had the virus and recovered with antibodies. Along with personal details the app includes a one‐off QR code. Or if preferred, travellers can re‐ quest a paper document with the same information. The 12 EU nations already using the digital certificate include: Aus‐ tria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Spain The app is ready to launch in Belgium, Cyprus, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lux‐ embourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden and Switzer‐ land. Finland, Hungary and Malta are still in the testing phase. It comes into force on July 1, for an initial 12 months and certifies the EU citizen’s Covid status, whether they are vaccinated or not, how they have tested, or if they have immunity from a previ‐ ous infection. The certificate will exempt EU citizens from stricter Covid restrictions when travelling between member states.
BIMIBI DREAMS, a compa‐ ny based in Alicante has in‐ vented a bed sheet that is able to detect if a baby has a fever. Not only can it detect a fever change if the baby’s temperature rises above 37.5 degrees Celsius, but it also changes colour to allow
Caring for your baby.
€200m internet boost
THE European Commission has permitted a plan that will enable high‐speed broad‐ band to those who live in un‐ derpopulated rural areas in Spain with poor connections. The new plan is to encourage people to relocate to dying villages. Underpopulated areas. A total of €200 million in funds will be allocated to Spain through the Next Generation re‐ covery plan and internet speeds of up to 300Mbps will be of‐ fered to rural areas with slow internet speeds. Brussels has said that this measure will help guarantee down‐ load speeds of over 100 Mbps for the whole of the Spanish pop‐ ulation by 2025. There are around 8 per cent of people in Spain living in areas where internet speeds of 100Mbps are not available, mainly in the nearly 7,000 villages in the country that have less than 5,000 inhabitants.
the parents to see the child’s condition at a glance. The sheet is made from a thermo‐intelligent fabric us‐ ing a technology that means if the baby has a fever the standard grey pattern on the blanket turns a pinkish colour. Not only does the sheet change colour, but it also benefits from an antimicro‐ bial and antiviral treatment. These treatments involve the use of silver ions. According to Rocío Cama‐ rasa, a spokesperson for the company from their export department, this is the first intelligent bed sheet which would allow parents to know the baby’s status ‘just by looking at it.’ The idea had originally come about due to the on‐ going coronavirus pandemic in a bid to be able to control a baby’s temperature more easily. The firm is now look‐ ing at how this could impact people’s ‘day‐to‐day life’, and help families care for their babies.
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Stall Rising Electricity
ELECTRICITY prices have spiked yet again and Teresa Ribera, the vice‐prime minister and minister for Ecological
Transition has admitted that the Spanish government will “probably” have to implement temporary measures in a bid
Minimum wage increase
Racing will take place. A REPORT by the Advisory Commission for the Analysis of the Minimum Wage presented on June 18, has suggested a 10 per cent hike to wages. If approved, the increase could see the minimum wage in Spain rise from €950 per month to €1,045 per month. The report was presented by the Ministry of Labour and So‐ cial Economy and Minister Yolanda Diaz will assess it. The government will be under pressure to approve the pro‐ posed hike not only because they will face re‐election in 2023, but because of growing public anger against increasing expenses such as costly electricity bills. However, earlier this month the Bank of Spain said the last minimum wage hike may have backfired and cost the country 180,000 jobs, as it impacted young people the most but barely workers over the age of 45.
to stall rising electricity prices. This move could possibly in‐ volve taxes being suspended. Ribera has not commented on which taxes could possibly be suspended but hinted when she commented that: “We have already done it and we will probably have to do it in the immediate future.” In 2018 the government sus‐ pended the 7 per cent tax on the generation of electricity for a period of six months. They also disabled the ‘green cent’ which is intended for fossil fu‐ els that are used to generate electricity. According to Ribera the gov‐ ernment has not ruled out the possibility of the suspension of: “some of the fiscal ele‐ ments, on an exceptional and provisional basis.” The new tariff system has only been in force a few weeks now and has left many people confused on how to fit daily life around the new tariff, in a bid to save money. Spain is currently hit with the most expensive electricity price in Europe.
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Iberia Boosts International Flights THE Spanish airline Iberia have shown their commit‐ ment to the revival of tourism this summer and have included Croatia in its international flight offering. They have not only includ‐ ed one location in Croatia,
they have provided three destinations: Dubrovnik, Za‐ greb and Split. The company have commented on their commitment to the revival of tourism this summer and they have emphasised that their international flight
destinations provide a stun‐ ning range of beach, sun, outdoor and cultural desti‐ nations. The firm will be offering five flights a week to Dubrovnik in June, and this will be increased over the height of the summer sea‐ son. July will see up to 10 flights each week and in Au‐ gust the destination will benefit from two direct flights each day. Zagreb flights will be available from June to September and the airline is set to offer three flights each day. This will increase over the summer and July will benefit from four flights while August will have sev‐ en. The airline is also offering flights to Croatia’s Split from June to September. June and July will see three flights each week, while Au‐ gust will have seven. The number of flights will fall slightly from September when there will be four flights each week available.
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Trip on Electric Bus TWO companies, Circontrol, and e‐busKar, have made the first route in an all‐electric bus between Barcelona and Madrid, to conduct an experi‐ ment to check the viability of this mode of transport, with a journey that will last 11 hours and cover a distance of 610km, including breaks to recharge the vehicle.
PILOT TEST: To show viability on longhaul trips. The electric bus left Sabadell in Barcelona on June 14 at 6am and arrived at San
Vaccines For over 12s
ALL of the autonomous regions in Spain and the Spanish Min‐ istry of Health were represented at the Public Health Commis‐ sion which has now approved the vaccination of a series of new age groups. The three age groups range from 39 years of age down to 12 years of age. According to the Spanish Ministry of Health now that more vaccines are available the possibility of overlapping vaccination age groups has arisen. The groups will still maintain the descend‐ ing order by age though. The new age groups to be vaccinated in the next stage of vac‐ cination plan are group 11 (aged 30 to 39), group 12 (aged 20 to 29) and group 13 (aged 12 to 19) The prioritisation of adolescents aged 12 and over that are considered at very high risk or who are highly dependent has al‐ so been emphasised. This group was approved for vaccination earlier this year in late May.
Sebastián de Los Reyes in Madrid at 7pm. This was a pilot test which aims to demonstrate the via‐ bility of electric transport on long‐haul trips, as reported by its promoters in a statement, and as this was the first trip of its type, the promoters planned recharge times that are longer than they really needed to be, with stops in Torrefarera in Lleida, Zaragoza, and Monreal de Ariza in Zaragoza. The model used on this pi‐ oneering journey was a 100 per cent electric Karsan Atak EV 220kwh Bus, which is eight metres long, with a ca‐ pacity for 52 passengers, and has a maximum range of 300km.
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Tyres And Kitchen Sink Found A SPANISH non‐govern‐ mental organisation (NGO) has retrieved over four tonnes of waste out of the Mediterranean Sea. The waste removal is part of a marine clean‐up
operation in which Marine Watchers Network Red de Vigilantes Marinos uses volunteers and divers to clean up sea beds and beaches. It also serves as data collection to better
40-year-old divorce law ON Tuesday June 22, 2021, it was precisely 40 years since the first law of divorce from democracy, a right that now seems the most normal, but that was taboo since the Second Re‐ public in Spain. Julia Ibars is the name of the woman who, unintentionally, has gone down in history for being the first divorcee in con‐ temporary Spain, in September 1981. This woman from San‐ tander would later recall “the tranquillity” she felt in being able to continue with her life, remarrying ‐ something her ex‐ husband did as well ‐ although for a long time she noticed the looks and comments behind her back. The divorce law was promoted by the government of Adolfo Suarez and by Justice Minister Francisco Fernández Ordóñez, who was accused of wanting to approve it to di‐ vorce himself. The minister affirmed in the Cortes: “We can‐ not prevent marriages from breaking, but we can prevent the suffering of broken marriages.” Since 1981, the year in which some 16,300 couples were divorced or separated, until now there have been more than three million marital dissolutions, between divorces and sep‐ arations, according to data from the CGPJ and the INE.
understand marine litter. Their clean‐up event in June saw over 2,000 vol‐ unteers collect between four and five tonnes of lit‐ ter and waste, including tyres and a sink. The group originally started in 2016. “It was just a little project among divers who were friends who were in love with the ocean,” said Laura Corre‐ dor, a marine biologist and professional diver who works with Marine Watchers Network. “It was really a little over five years ago and with years and a lot of vol‐ unteers now we are a little bit bigger.” An estimated 150 tonnes of plastics have been dumped into the world’s oceans, and 4.6 ‐ 12.7 million tonnes are still being added each year. Laura says that Ma‐ rine Watchers is fed up with seeing the damage this causes to ecosystems and animals.
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New Bank Opens
BRITISH businesses and communities will have billions of pounds available as Chancellor Rishi Sunak is set to open the new UK Infrastructure Bank in Leeds to support local growth and tackle climate change. The Bank’s £22 billion of financial capacity will consist of £5 billion of equity, £7 billion of debt, and £10 billion of guarantees. It is part of the government’s plan to deliver over £600 billion in gross public sector investment over the next five years which would be the highest sustained levels of public sector net investment as a proportion of GDP since the late 1970s. The Chair of the UK Infrastructure Bank, Chris Grigg, said, “The new UK Infrastructure Bank is open for business. I am delighted to be leading this institution, which will be a catalyst for investment to support regional economic growth and net zero ambitions. I look forward to building strong partnerships with project sponsors, institutions and local leaders.”
SUNAK: UK Chancellor.
Life statistics
THE number of births in Spain has fallen while the mortality rate hit its highest level since Spain started keeping statistics in the 1970s. Life expectancy has also been reduced. According to the National Statistics Institute, the number of deaths in 2020 totalled 492,930, up 17.7 per cent from the previous year and average life expectancy in Spain fell by 1.24 years to 82.3 years, the data showed. Restrictions on indoor gatherings almost halved the num‐ ber of weddings from the previous year to 90,416, the data showed and births fell by 5.9 per cent to 339,206, another record low, as couples postponed pregnancies as well as weddings. “The decrease in the number of births was observed throughout all the months of 2020, although it was accentu‐ ated from November. The biggest drop occurred in the month of December, with a reduction of 21.5 per cent com‐ pared to the same month in 2019,” the IME said.
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Over 80s now fully vaccinated ALL over 80s are now fully vaccinated against the coro‐ navirus in Spain. Carolina Darias, Minister of Health, has announced that “100 per cent of people over 80 years of age are already immu‐ nised.” She made this an‐ nouncement whilst she cele‐ brated that Spain is “the first in Europe to achieve this, thanks to the strength of the National Health System and the efforts of our healthcare professionals.” A spokesperson for the Ministry of Health has de‐ fended that the “vaccination strategy” against the coron‐ avirus is its “roadmap to nor‐ mality.” The President of the Government, Pedro Sanchez, announced on Saturday, June 19, that ESO and Baccalaure‐ ate students may be vaccinat‐ ed two weeks before the start of the next term if au‐ thorised by the European Medicines Agency. “If the authorisations pro‐ vided for by the European Medicines Agency are ful‐ filled, we could begin the vac‐
cination of these students two weeks before the begin‐ ning of the academic year,” he stated during a tribute to the educational community for their efforts during the pandemic. Meanwhile, vaccination against the coronavirus in Spain continues to advance at a good pace. About 30 per cent of the population is al‐
ready immunised and almost 50 per cent have received a first dose, which accounts for more than 22.5 million peo‐ ple. In addition, just two weeks after the vaccination process began with the group be‐ tween 40 and 49 years old, 44 per cent have already been administered at least one dose.
World Food Security
SPAIN has announced its bid to chair the Committee on World Food Security (CFS), the main platform within the United Nations system for combating hunger aimed at supporting countries in the achievement of the Sustain‐ able Development Goals on food security and nutrition. Gabriel Ferrero, Ambas‐ sador on Special Mission for
Combating world hunger.
New Music Festival for Everyone
A NEW music festival that everyone is sure to enjoy is coming to Torrevieja, and tickets are now on sale. Tickets for the Brilla Torrevieja Bright Torrevieja, music festival are now on sale and can be purchased via the web on www.brillatorrevieja.com and the festival will feature performances by both international and national artists such as Pol Granch, Niña Pastori, Jorge Drexler and Sidecars. The festival which is considered to be boutique, will present its first edition this year, and it will run from August 1 to August 7. The festival aims
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to offer various spaces for people to enjoy throughout the city and bring an idyllic atmosphere with it. The festival was presented by the town hall in the hope that it will create unforgettable and unique moments for everyone. The music side of the festival will take place surrounded by piers and docks in the Eras de la Sal venue. Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy gastronomic and artistic experiences too.
TICKETS: Are on sale now.
World Food Security since April and previously the Di‐ rector‐General for Sustain‐ able Development Policies at the Ministry of Foreign Af‐ fairs, the European Union and Cooperation, will be Spain’s candidate for CFS Chairman. His professional career has been wholly dedicated to sustainable development and international coopera‐ tion. He has been recognised for his work on building the 2030 Agenda and promoting the Zero Hunger Challenge during his time as advisor to the previous Secretary‐Gen‐ eral of the United Nations Organisation, Ban Ki‐moon while he was coordinator of the UN High‐Level Task Force on World Food Securi‐ ty and Bureau Chief of the UN Special Representative on the matter. An aid worker, researcher and academic, he is also a professor on sabbatical of Universidad Politécnica de Valencia and the author of over 50 publications.
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$2.7 bn charity donation Jet2 Expand Services
JEFF BEZOS’ ex‐wife, Mackenzie Scott has said that she has given more than $2.7 billion of her fortune away to charity, this is along with the $1.7 billion in July last year and the $4.2 billion in December. This means that Scott has now given away $8.5 billion of her fortune in less than a year.
Scott revealed that the money will go to 286 organisations that she thinks are “high impact” in “underfunded and over‐ looked” communities and sectors. The beneficiaries include schools and organisations that are dedicated to global poverty, female empowerment and anti‐ discrimination.
JET2.COM and Jet2holidays have announced they are expanding their 2022 summer programme from Newcastle airport, with extra aircraft and more than 300 flights added to a range of destina‐ tions. The sister brands said the extra capacity was a response to “enormous demand” from holiday‐ makers in the northeast of England. It means Jet2.com and Jet2holidays will operate a fleet of up to nine based aircraft at Newcastle during the peak summer 2022 period, with 35 destinations on sale, across mainland Spain, the Balearic and Canary is‐ lands, and also Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria and Italy. Steve Heapy, chief executive of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Although there continues to be huge pent‐up demand for summer 2021, bookings for next summer are looking very encouraging as customers in the northeast look to plan ahead and get a much‐needed holiday locked into their diaries. “With 35 destinations on sale from Newcastle air‐ port in summer 22 and up to 125 weekly flights de‐
SUMMER 2022: Jet2 are expanding their programme to cope with the extra demand. parting during peak periods, this expansion gives holidaymakers more choice, more flexibility, and more reason to book their well‐deserved flights and real package holidays.” Richard Knight, chief operating officer at Newcas‐ tle airport, added: “Today’s announcement is fantas‐ tic news and a significant investment from Jet2.com and Jet2holidays into the region. It is great news to see Jet2.com and Jet2holidays react so positively to the demand in the northeast and to see even more capacity to popular destinations.”
Withdraw Extradition Requests THE Council of Europe has called on Spain to withdraw ex‐ traditions requests for exiled Catalonian leaders and to re‐ form the crime of sedition. On June 21 the council’s par‐ liamentary assembly approved a report which says the sen‐ tences handed out to Catalan separatists in 2019 were too harsh. The Committee on Legal Af‐ fairs called on the Spanish au‐ thorities to reform the criminal provisions on rebellion and sedi‐ tion in such a way that they “cannot be interpreted so as to undo the decriminalisation of the organisation of an illegal ref‐ erendum” in 2005 or lead to “disproportionate sanctions for
non‐violent transgressions.” It also asked Spain to “consid‐ er pardoning or otherwise re‐ lease” from prison the Catalan politicians convicted for their role in the organisation of the unconstitutional referendum and the related peaceful mass demonstrations, to “consider dropping extradition proceed‐ ings against Catalan politicians living abroad who are wanted on the same grounds” and to “drop the remaining prosecu‐ tions also of the lower‐ranking officials involved in the 2017 un‐ constitutional referendum.” The assembly approved the report by 70 votes in favour, 28 against and 12 abstentions. However, an attempt by Es‐
querra Republicana’s senator Laura Castel to include an amendment seeking Spain to pass an amnesty law was reject‐ ed. The Spanish Foreign Min‐ istry has heavily criticised the re‐ port. “The government considers that the entire ruling is based on an erroneous approach in pre‐ suming that the pro‐indepen‐ dence political leaders were in‐ dicted for expressing their ideas in the exercise of their mandate. This pre‐conception contami‐ nates the whole text, is reflect‐ ed in the report and in the rec‐ ommendations and merits a general reproach from the gov‐ ernment of Spain,” it said in a statement earlier this month.
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11% Drop On Electricity IVA THE Spanish Government plans to propose to the Council of Ministers today, Thursday, June 24, the reduction of the VAT (IVA) on electricity to 10 per cent, compared to the current 21 per cent. The idea is that, although it is a temporary measure, it will be extended during the current period of rising costs of the bills. According to various experts on the matter, the discount will be extended at least this year.
The Minister for Ecological Transition, Teresa Ribera, already opened the possibility last week for a reduction in electricity taxes “on an exceptional and provisional basis” to stop the rise in the price of electricity. The Minister of Finance, María Jesús Montero, said that the measure would be studied very carefully, while the Finance Ministry has misgivings, according to the same Executive sources.
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McAfee Charges Politically Motivated JOHN MCAFEE, the founder of McAfee Antivirus, has told a Spanish court that charges against him are politically motivated, after facing tax charges in the US and has been held in a Catalonian jail since October 2020. He told a court in Madrid the charges against him are politically motivated as he made a failed attempt to run as a Libertarian Party candidate in the 2020 American presidential election. “In late 2018, I announced I would run again and I also announced I would target the IRS and its corruption and two months later the IRS filed charges against me,” he told the Spanish High Court during the first hearing of his extradition trial. I believe the charges are politically motivated.
“I am hoping that the Spanish court will see the injustice of this. The United States wants to use me as an example,” he added. The prosecutor however said McAfee is nothing more than a tax dodger. “He is a tax rebel, nothing else. A millionaire who doesn’t want to pay taxes. He will benefit from all guarantees of due process,” said Carlos Bautista. On June 16, McAfee tweeted, “The US believes I have hidden crypto. I wish I did but it has dissolved through the many hands of Team McAfee (your belief is not required), and my remaining assets are all seized. “My friends evaporated through fear of association. I have nothing. Yet, I regret nothing.”
Nile Fever Returns
ON Wednesday, June, 16, a case of Nile virus meningoencephali‐ tis in the province of Sevilla, set
off alarms in the health system at a time when Covid was thought to be the most impor‐
Matrix accquires Solar Portfolio MATRIX RENEWABLES, a renewable energy platform, has entered into an agreement with Alten Renewable Energy, to acquire a 300 MW solar portfolio across Spain and Portugal. The portfolio, which comprises five different assets with a capacity of 300 MW, includes 210 MW of solar PV in Spain and 90 MW in Portugal. Construction on the first phase of these projects is expected to begin in 2021. In addition, Matrix Renewables has also reached an agreement with the Alten management team to develop 2 GW of solar and storage projects in Spain and Portugal. Inigo Asensio, Head of M&A at Matrix Renewables, said, “These agreements will allow Matrix to become a relevant renewable energy platform in the Iberian Peninsula. We are confident that it will boost our presence in Spain and Portugal, and we will continue to further explore additional opportunities in Europe, Latin America and the US in our quest to expand, globally.”
tant thing to watch out for. The news was released to the press shortly after 5pm, when a brief statement was sent from the Ministry of Health and Fami‐ lies in which it reported the statement to the Andalucian Epidemiological Surveillance System of a case of the West Nile Virus, meningoencephalitis, in the province of Sevilla. Without any further data available as to its origin or loca‐ tion, the health sources consult‐ ed have indicated that the af‐ fected person is a patient who has been admitted to the ICU of the Virgen del Rocío Hospital, and whose infection was de‐ tected “thanks to the protocols established last summer that dictate that all meningoen‐ cephalitis cases of unknown ori‐ gin be tested.” In addition, the patient also tested positive for Covid, report‐ ed the Health Ministry.
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Understanding ‘lawful’ and ‘tax’ residence in Spain Brexit has highlighted the importance of understanding and correctly following Spain’s residence legislation, and anyone who has not yet applied for a residence permit has new rules to navigate. There are two different concepts of residence you need to be aware of and plan for. Getting either of these wrong could have serious consequences. But if you take specialist advice and follow the procedures correctly, you can continue to live the dream in Spain and enjoy a long and secure future here. 1) Lawful residence – your rights, as a national of one country, to live and work in another. If you were lawfully settled in Spain before the end of 2020 and hold an official residence card, you should have nothing to worry about. UK nationals can continue to apply for residence in Spain, but you now do this as a ‘third-coun-
If you have capital to invest in Spain and want more freedom to spend as much or as little time here as you wish, you can apply for the Investor Visa or ‘Golden Visa’. You need to make a qualifying minimum investment in either Spanish real estate (€500,000) or other qualifying investment (€1 million or €2 million), along with other basic requirements. By Fiona Keogh, Private Client Manager, Blevins Franks
try national. This involves stricter requirements, more advance planning and paperwork, but is generally still possible. Work visas are harder to obtain now though, especially for the self-employed. Retirees can apply for a Spanish non-lucrative visa and residency permit, where you need to prove you have sufficient means to live in Spain (plus other basic requirements). This commits you to spending at least half the year in Spain.
Without a residence visa, UK nationals are only permitted to spend up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period in the whole Schengen area. 2) Tax residence – the country which has taxing rights over your worldwide income, gains and wealth. Spanish tax residents are liable for income, capital gains and wealth taxes on their worldwide income and assets and subject to Spanish succession tax rules. They are also obliged to declare assets located outside Spain on Modelo 720.
You are resident for tax purposes in Spain if any of the following apply (you do not have a choice):
2021. If you meet any of the tax residence criteria, you must register for tax.
1) You spend more than 183 days in Spain cumulatively in a calendar year, even if not formally registered. Temporary absences are ignored unless you can prove you are habitually resident elsewhere.
Residency in Spain is nothing to fear
2) Your ‘centre of economic interests’ – the base for your economic or professional activities – is in Spain. If you earn more income or have more assets here than in any other single country, Spain is deemed your centre of economic activity, 3) Your ‘centre of vital interests’ is in Spain – your spouse and/or minor children live here. You are presumed Spanish resident even if you spend less than 183 days, unless proven otherwise. Spanish tax authorities carry out inspections on tax residency and are focusing on this as part of their 2021 ‘Tax Control Plan’
Spain can still be everything you dreamed it would be. Take advice to secure the best residence permit for your circumstances and to meet all your tax obligations. If you are worried you’ll pay too much tax in Spain you may be surprised. The local tax regime provides opportunities for tax efficient investing careful planning could help you save considerable amounts of tax. The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice. You can find other financial advisory articles by visiting our website here www.blevinsfranks.com
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Third largest diamond in the world BOTSWANA’S diamond firm Debswana has said it unearthed a 1,098-carat stone on June 1 that is described as the third-largest of its kind in the world. “This is the largest diamond to be recovered by Debswana in its history of over 50 years in operation. From our preliminary analysis it could be the world’s third largest gem-quality
stone. We are yet to make a decision on whether to sell it through the De Beers channel or through the state owned Okavango Diamond Company,” said Managing Director Lynette Armstrong. The biggest diamond ever discovered in the world was the 3,106-carat Cullinan, found in South Africa in 1905. The second-largest was 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona
- a diamond the size of a tennis ball, discovered at Karowe, northeastern Botswana, in 2015. The yet-to-be named stone, which measures 73mm long, 52mm wide and 27mm thick is also the biggest gem to be found in the history of Debswana, a joint venture between the government and global diamond giant De Beers.
Forensic Teams Recover Five Arrested Over Franco Victims’ Bodies Supermarket Slavery
VICTIMS: Hoping to identify them through DNA analysis. BRITISH and Spanish forensic scientists are working to recover the bodies of victims executed by the Franco regime. The team includes forensic archaeologists and anthropologists from England’s Cranfield University. The team from Cranfield is working with partners from the University Complutense of Madrid (UCM) and social anthropologists from Mapas de Memoria (Maps of Memory) to search for, exhume and identify those executed and buried in the civil cemetery at Almagro between 1939 and 1940. Several bodies with gunshot
wounds to the head, personal effects and parts of clothing have been recovered and in total the team are searching for 26 people in this excavation which is focused on an area of the graveyard closed for decades. Families of victims have been found in the hope of identifying relatives through DNA analysis and returning the human remains for proper burial. The exhumation is part of a number of recoveries from the Spanish Civil War which are currently being investigated in Spain. Since 2000, over 7,000 victims have been recovered.
OFFICERS of the National Police, in collaboration with the Catalan Labour Inspectorate, have brought down a criminal organisation based in the province of Barcelona, allegedly dedicated to the labour exploitation of foreign citizens. To control the victims, the network had a video surveillance room where they watched, in real time, about 100 TV cameras to keep tight control of the workers. The investigation began following inspections carried out last November in a commercial establishment in the town of Granollers. It was discovered that the investigated network had a series of franchised supermarkets in the city of Barcelona, as well as two warehouses in Sant Adrià del Besós, where they allegedly exploited numerous workers of Pakistani nationality who lacked the mandatory documentation to be able to work. By employing foreign citizens in an irregular situation and imposing abusive working conditions on them, the organ-
isation achieved great economic benefits which allowed them, in a short period of time, to expand their business. The situation of vulnerability of the victims of this type of crime was confirmed by verifying that all of them were in an irregular situation, without social or family roots of any kind in the national territory, with little or no academic training and, in some cases, with dependent children. The foreigners were forced to work extreme hours, without legal rest, without weekly rest, without medical insurance or registration in the Social Security regime. The corresponding labour records were drawn up and a total of 86 workers were identified in their workplace, 43 of them without the mandatory residence and work authorisation. Once the facts were verified, the five most responsible for the supermarket network and inspected warehouses were arrested.
New Ryanair Base At Turin Airport RYANAIR has opened its 16th Italian base at Turin with two based aircraft - an investment of €167.5 million - and 32 routes connecting Turin, both domestically and internationally, to 13 countries including Spain. The new base will have connections to winter holiday destinations such as Lanzarote, Malta, Mallorca and Marrakech, city breaks to Copenhagen, Budapest, London and Paris as well as domestic connections to Palermo, Naples and Bari. Over 123 flights will depart from the new base each week including two flights per week to Sevilla, Madrid, Malaga, Lanzarote and Palma. Ryanair’s CEO, Eddie Wilson said, “We are delighted to open our 16th Italian base which represents a $200 million investment at Turin Airport, with over 30 destinations to choose from this winter, including 18 new connections. “We have enjoyed a great partnership with this airport since our first ever flight from London Stansted to Turin in 1999 and we are very pleased to continue growing in the region after 22 successful years.”
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24 - 30 June 2021
Summer sales begin
BUSINESSES are preparing for the start of summer sales due to the hope that the sector can pull through to the end of the worst phase of Covid‐19, to reduce the fall in sales in physical stores and secure them through online sales. This optimism for the summer is shared by the Spanish Confederation of Com‐ merce (CEC), as it foresees that the volume of sales for the sales campaign, which begins to a greater extent on the 24th in the fashion
and footwear sector, will be reactivated com‐ pared to last year. The employer’s association, however, stresses that the improvement will be ‘slight’ with respect to the 2020 campaign and warns that it will stay far from the 2019 fig‐ ures, the turnover could still fall between 20 per cent and 30 per cent. Each store, each chain, initiates the sales when it deems it ap‐ propriate and for this reason, the employer casts doubt on the impact of the campaign on consump‐ tion. In addition, he believes that the increase in sales will be linked to the relaxation of restrictions, greater mobility ITV’S exclusive coverage of England and Scotland’s draw at and the advancement of vac‐ Wembley last Friday June 18, peaked with 20 million viewers cination. a 79 per cent share across ITV and STV - becoming the mostThe traditional date of Ju‐ watched match of Euro 2020 so far. ly 1, where the cameras cap‐ The match set a new broadcaster streaming record with 4.8 tured the races to reach the million streams across ITV Hub and STV Player. bargains first, has almost With a 20 million one-minute peak, the game becomes the gone down in history as the most-watched football match since ITV’s exclusive coverage of opening day of the summer England’s World Cup semi-final against Croatia in 2018 drew a sale campaign. Some compa‐ peak of 27.5 million viewers. nies have already launched The match coverage, from kick off to final whistle, which saw with a range of discounts, both Gareth Southgate and Steve Clarke’s teams play out a such as Decathlon, H&M, tense goalless draw, was watched by 18.4 million viewers, a 74 Mango, Springfield, Tendam per cent share, of viewing across ITV and STV. (Cortefiel), Amazon, AliEx‐ press and eBay.
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FEATURE
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England v Scotland scores 20 million on ITV
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NEWS
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Nutri-Score Labelling NUTRI-SCORE labelling on food products could save thousands of lives in Spain each year, Minister of Con‐ sumer Affairs Alberto Gar‐ zon has said. Speaking in Parliament on June 16, Garzon said, “Its im‐ plementation could reduce by 3.4 per cent the number of deaths caused by obesity, such as heart disease, diabetes or certain types of cancer.” The Nutri‐Score, also known as the 5‐Colour Nutri‐ tion label or 5‐CNL, is a nutri‐ tional rating system that was selected by the French gov‐ ernment in March 2017 to be displayed on food prod‐ ucts after it was compared against several labels pro‐ posed by industry or retail‐ ers. It is based on the com‐ putation of a nutrient profiling system derived from the United Kingdom Food Standards Agency nu‐ trient profiling system. A Nutri‐Score for a particu‐ lar food item is given in one
Removal of LGBTi flag THE Spanish Association of Christian Lawyers has asked a judge to order the removal of an LGBTi flag raised by the Sevil‐ la City Council on a roundabout where the Andalucian flag nor‐ mally flies and has warned the mayor, Juan Espadas, that they
will report it if he does not do so. As reported in a statement, the legal organisation explains that it has asked a judge to adopt very precautionary mea‐ sures to remove the LGBTi flag located on Avenida de Andalu‐
Jobs At Renfe
FOOD LABELLING: Including for fruit and vegetables. of five classification letters, with ‘A’ being the best preferable score and ‘E’ be‐ ing a worst. The calculation of the score involves seven different parameters of nu‐ trient information per 100 grams of food which are usu‐ ally available on food pack‐ aging. A high content of fruits and vegetables, fibres, pro‐ tein and healthy oils such as rapeseed, walnut and olive oils, produces a good score, while a high content of ener‐
gy, sugar, saturated fatty acids, and sodium produces a bad score. In addition to the general calculation rules applied to most types of food, there are special rules for cheese, for ‘added fats’ ‐ fats that are meant as ingredients, such as vegetable oils or butter ‐ and for beverages. EU laws do not allow coun‐ tries to unilaterally impose their own food labelling sys‐ tem, therefore they can only give recommendations.
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RENFE hope to employ 305 new commercial operators. Ac‐ cording to the company, 17 of these jobs have been reserved for people with disabilities. The application process is open un‐ til June 25 and anyone wishing to apply must pay a €15 ‘partici‐ pation fee’. All applicants need to be willing to work shifts and will also be ‘geographically mobile’. Renfe hope to find applicants who have knowledge of English, German, French and for those working in Catalonia, Catalan. According to the company they hope to recruit ‘permanent staff’, and they aim to ‘promote gender balance, encouraging as much as possible the increase of the underrepresented gender within their staff’. The application process is open now on the ‘Employment and Talent’ section of the Renfe website. Applicants are also encour‐ aged to check out the website for further new job possibilities with the company. Anyone wishing to apply for the positions reserved for people with disabilities will need to have a ‘degree of disability equal to or greater than 33 per cent’.
cia and has compared this case with that of ‘the independence flags’ of Catalonia. They also warn Espadas, recently pro‐ claimed PSOE candidate for the presidency of the Junta de An‐ dalucia, that if he does not back down ‘they will study criminal actions’ against him. The president of Abogados Cristianos, Polonia Castellanos, recalls that the Supreme Court “has been clear in establishing as a doctrine that only official flags can be raised to comply with the duty of neutrality of public administrations.” In this sense, it highlights several judgements of 2020 that ac‐ cepted the requests of Christian Lawyers ‘in several cities, such as Valladolid or Zaragoza.’ The case of Sevilla, continues the president of the associa‐ tion, is ‘the same case’ as that of ‘the pro‐independence flags’. He added, “an administra‐ tion cannot be allowed to place a flag that only represents a part of the citizenry. It is not ac‐ ceptable that public institutions are used to impose an ideolo‐ gy.”
24 EWN
24 - 30 June 2021
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NEWS
Double jabbed for hols
BRITISH holidaymakers who have had both doses of a Covid vaccine may not have to quarantine upon arrival back to the UK after holidaying in amber list desti‐ nations if a plan to loosen travel restric‐ tions is approved. Changes are being considered to the traffic light system under which places are graded according to their Covid case and jab rate, determining whether and how people coming from them must isolate. It is hoped that the new rules would en‐
courage people to get both shots sooner rather than later. Former prime minister Theresa May is among those who have criticised the gov‐ ernment’s handling of travel restrictions. “We are falling behind the rest of Eu‐ rope in our decisions to open up … It’s in‐ comprehensible that one of the most heavily vaccinated countries in the world is one that is most reluctant to give its citi‐ zens the freedoms those vaccinations should support,” she said last week.
Blyton’s books branded racist
E N I D B LY T O N ’ S c h i l dren’s books and stories have been branded racist and xenophobic by English H eritage after a review of its blue plaques following last summer’s Black Lives Matter protests. Enid Blyton is best remembered for her series of children’s books, the Famous F ive and the S ecret Seven. A blue plaque was added in 1997 to
commemorate her former home at 207 Hook Road in Chessington, where she started to develop her storytelling skills. T he organisation said, “ B lyton’s work has been criticised during her lifetime and after for its racism, xenophobia and lack of literary merit. A 1966 Guardian article noted the racism of The Little Black Doll (1966), in which the doll of the
title, Sambo, is only accepted by his owner once his ‘ugly black face’ is washed ‘clean’ by rain. In 1960 the publisher Macmillan refused to publish her story The M ystery T hat N ever W as for what it called its ‘faint but unattractive touch of old-fashioned xenophobia.’ The book, however, was later published by William Collins.
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NEWS
Med Diet + thinking skills PEOPLE who eat a Mediter‐ ranean‐style diet, particularly one rich in green leafy vegeta‐ bles and low in meat, have better thinking skills in later life. Closely adhering to a Mediterranean diet was asso‐ ciated with higher scores on a
range of memory and thinking tests among adults in their late 70s, a study has found. These latest findings suggest that this primarily plant‐based diet may have benefits for cog‐ nitive functioning as we get older. Researchers at the Universi‐
Maternity benefits proposal THE president of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, has proposed benefits of €500 per month for pregnant women and new mothers under 30 years of age and with incomes below €30,000 per year. Up to 14,000 women in Madrid each year could be eligible for the benefit and it would require an investment of €250 million per year in the public purse. “We are going to help the women who need it most with €14,500 for each child born in the Community of Madrid as long as the mother has been registered here for at least 10 years,” Ayuso said on Thursday June 17. “All pregnant women up to 35 years of age will have priority in the VIVE plan, and for all mothers - without age limits who are unemployed, a specific job bank, training plans and educational support for those who decide to study will be available.
ty of Edinburgh tested the thinking skills of more than 500 people aged 79 and with‐ out dementia of which the par‐ ticipants completed tests of problem solving, thinking speed, memory, and word knowledge, as well as a ques‐ tionnaire about their eating habits during the previous year. More than 350 of the group also underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan to gain insights into their brain structure. The team used statistical models to look for associations between a person’s diet and their thinking skills and brain health in later life. The findings show that, in general, people who most closely adhered to a Mediter‐ ranean diet had the highest cognitive function scores, even when accounting for childhood IQ, smoking, physical activity and health factors. The differences were small but statistically significant.
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EUROPEAN PRESS
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EUROPEAN NIBS DENMARK
FRANCE
Car confiscated
50th Anniversary
A NEW law in Denmark which allows for any car involved in a dangerous driving incident to be confiscated saw the owner of a Mazda lose her car after she lent it to her boyfriend who was clocked doing 108km/h in a 50 limit.
IT is now 50 years since the foundation Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders) that sends medical aid to disaster areas, which grew out of the ideals of a group of newly qualified French doctors who wanted to help those in need around the world.
THE NETHERLANDS
NORWAY
Animal deaths
In the air
DUTCH animal rights organisations have called for better fire safety on factory farms after two fires in June led to the death of thousands of animals as first 4,600 pigs were killed in a fire in Nederweert and then 220 calves died in a fire in Elspeet.
AFTER restructuring the organisation due to significant financial difficulties, Norwegian Air is back in business, concentrating initially on internal Scandinavian flights but then expanding to take in other parts of Europe including a number of Spanish destinations as well as London.
BELGIUM Refurbishment NINETY-FIVE pieces of furniture and other items from ‘Hotel le Palace’, once called “the best hotel in Brussels” by Maigret writer Georges Simenon, are being put up for auction as the 100-year-old property is due to be refurbished in a more modern style.
GERMANY Reckless stunt WHAT Greenpeace thought would be a great publicity stunt as a paraglider swept over the stadium in Munich as Germany were about to play France turned into a nightmare when the pilot lost control and made an emergency landing injuring two people in the process.
FINLAND Sustainability FOR the first time, Finland has taken the top spot in an index that tracks and compares the progress made by UN member states in achieving sustainable development goals. The annual report, from the UN and the Bertelsmann Foundation, reviews the performance of 165 countries.
SWEDEN Easier access PEOPLE who live in Sweden but commute on a daily basis to work in Norway are to be allowed to use the old Svinesund bridge (previously open only to Norwegian passport holders) to cross the border, provided that they have proof of residence and work.
24 - 30 June 2021
EWN 27
FINANCE BUSINESS EXTRA Ethereum WHEN Elon Musk, owner of Tesla said that he would stop accepting cryptocurrency unless it had been mined using sustainable electricity, the bottom dropped out of the market, but now, Ethereum the number two currency has confirmed that it will consume 99.5 per cent less power.
Victorian Plumbing REASONABLY priced British supplier of bathrooms, Victorian Plumbing is to launch shares on the UK AIM market later this month at a price which is likely to value the company at £850 (€935) million, with the bulk of shares being sold by existing private shareholders.
Moroccan fallout
28
STAT OF WEEK
€136 million
ACCORDING to Sky News, supermarket group Mor‐ risons may become the sub‐ ject of a hostile takeover bid by mid‐July. Within a few hours of Sky News revealing that it had received information that there was a potential takeover bid from US pri‐ vate equity group Clayton, Dubilier & Rice valuing the group at £5.5 (€6) billion, Morrisons issued the fol‐ lowing statement: “The board of Morrisons
evaluated the conditional proposal together with its financial adviser, Rothschild & Co, and unanimously con‐ cluded that the conditional proposal significantly un‐ dervalued Morrisons and its future prospects. “Accordingly, the board rejected the conditional proposal on June 17, 2021.” Following up on this in‐ formation, the Financial Times revealed that under the UK’s takeover rules, the private equity firm must
LEGALLY SPEAKING
90-day rule Yet again I think that the rule of 90‐day stay in Spain has been misinterpreted in recent press coverage and that a stay of 180 days is possible. I enclose the EU response to my question on the subject, and nowhere do I see a require‐ ment to leave the ‘Schengen area’ between 90‐day stays. Would this not make it possible to unite two stays of 90 days, one at the end of 180 days and the other at the beginning of the next 180‐day period? M B (e‐mail)
Halfords hike
You are right to ob‐ serve that nowhere YOU AND THE LAW in the complicated IN SPAIN EU response to your query does it specifically say that a person must leave the ‘Schengen area’ for 90 days. The Schengen area actually in‐ cludes the 26 EU countries. In the full set of 90‐day stay regu‐ lations issued by the EU, it is made clear that any person, EU or not, is limited to a tourist stay of 90 days in a 180‐day peri‐ od in any country not his own. After that period, he must leave the EU or, if he is a citizen of the EU, return to his home country for 90 days before he can return.
Tax fraud AS part of its submission to the European Commission when applying for funds from the Recovery Fund, the Spanish Government undertook to step up investigations into tax evasion and fraud. To do this, the Government will rely heavily on the use of new technology, coupled with an undertaking to employ more staff in the Tax Office which had dropped during the last 10 years. It is expected that there will be nearly 6,000 new investigations during 2021 according to the Expansion news outlet, a number of which will concentrate on companies trading internationally.
is the value of the bid that Spanish construction company has made to win a contract to expand a subway line in Toronto, Canada.
Possible hostile takeover
SPAIN’S problem with its relationship with Morocco continues to escalate as the Moroccan Government has reportedly refused to renew the contract covering the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, which brings Algerian gas through Morocco and on to Cordoba which was first signed 25 years ago.
HALFORDS has seen latest pretax profits jump by more than 70 per cent to £96 (€105) million thanks to a huge boost in customer interest in bicycle products as well as the e-bike and scooter market, where regular servicing is required as well as battery changes.
www.euroweeklynews.com • 24 - 30 June 2021
DAVID SEARL
Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana and Associates in Fuengirola at Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.
DESPITE Spain’s questionable fi‐ nancial situation, Bank of Spain employees can enjoy a paid for summer break on the coast. Last year the Bank issued a tender inviting travel agents to offer two and three bedroom ac‐ commodation across the country to be used for staff summer holi‐ days, but this was cancelled due to the pandemic and restriction
publicly announce full de‐ tails of its intended bid by July 17 or not progress the matter again for some time. Morrisons’ senior man‐ agement were ‘under the cosh’ at a recent sharehold‐ er’s meeting when 70 per cent voted against pro‐ posed significant bonuses for a number of executives, even though profits were down last year despite ris‐ ing sales. As the fourth largest su‐ permarket chain in the UK
with a large number of free‐ hold properties and the un‐ til recently highly successful Gibraltar branch (which is having difficulty in bringing in certain stock due to Brex‐ it), it appears a likely candi‐ date for takeover especially as it is supplying Amazon with products for its Prime Pantry service. If nothing happens with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, gi‐ ants such as Amazon may just be ready to step in and make their own offer.
How to help someone who is grieving
Everyone grieves differently. IF someone close to you is grieving over the loss of a loved one, it is often hard to know what to say and you may think that whatever you do, it won’t be ade‐ quate or helpful. Here are some tips to help others deal with the loss of a loved one. ‐ What you may think is an uplifting comment is probably not helpful, and neither is humour. Your in‐ tentions may be good, but it can make the person feel that their pain is not valid.
‐ Don’t make them talk about how they feel if they don’t want to. ‐ Don’t get upset if they push you away. Give them space, but make sure they know you’re there if they need you. Everyone grieves differ‐ ently and there is no set time frame for the grieving process. They will have bet‐ ter and worse moments, the most important thing you can do for them is offer your support whenever they need it.
www.goldenleavesinternational.com enquiries@goldenleaves.com Facebook: goldenleavesspain
Staff apartments on travel. Nothing daunted, a similar ten‐ der was issued this year and ac‐ cording to a number of news sources including the Canadian News, four agencies will be shar‐ ing almost €1 million as they sup‐
ply some 100 apartments for use by Bank of Spain staff this sum‐ mer. Although cost was one of the main criteria, their employer wanted to ensure that staff would be able to enjoy similar standards
Cautious optimism THE Bank of Spain believes that activity will return to pre‐pandemic levels by the end of 2022 thanks to re‐ openings of businesses across the country that are supported by the much‐im‐ proved coronavirus figures. The economic outlook for Spain is improving as the impact of the coronavirus pandemic eases. Declining coronavirus cases and deaths, coupled with a steady and successful vacci‐ nation drive, are stimulat‐ ing activity, consumption and public confidence. As a result, the Bank of Spain has slightly raised its 2021 growth prospects for the Spanish economy from 6 per cent to 6.2 per cent and for next year, the fore‐ cast is being raised from 5.3 per cent to 5.8 per cent.
Cheaper internet THE National Commission for Markets and Competition (CN‐ MC) which is a Spanish Govern‐ ment body tasked with ensuring that consumers are protected wherever possible has made a decision which could make in‐ ternet connection cheaper. It has decided that giant tech‐ nology company Telefónica will have to reduce the amount it charges to competitors for ac‐ cess to its underground con‐ duits, manholes and telegraph poles by 22 per cent. If all goes to plan therefore, ri‐ val companies should pass on the bulk of the savings to their customers even though there will be a reduction in profits for Telefónica. to those they enjoy at home, so all properties had to have air condi‐ tioning, a swimming pool, decent views and be within 100 metres of a beach. The Bank of Spain is of course 100 per cent state owned and therefore funded by the Spanish taxpayer, many of whom have been on furlough or out of work for as much as a year.
30 EWN
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C LOSING P RICES J UNE 21
COMPANY PRICE(P) CHANGE(P) 3I Group 1.185,00 1.194,00 Admiral Group 3.165,9 3.221,0 Anglo American 2.716,5 2.728,7 Antofagasta 1.384,50 1.391,50 Ashtead Group 5.036,0 5.066,0 Associated British Foods 2.270,0 2.272,9 AstraZeneca 8.408,6 8.476,0 Auto Trader Group Plc 632,00 635,60 Avast 492,90 495,60 Aveva 3.590,0 3.600,0 Aviva 412,80 414,10 B&M European Value Retail SA546,80 550,80 BAE Systems 531,00 533,00 Bank VTB DRC 1,280 1,296 Barclays 170,76 171,70 Barratt Developments 706,20 711,60 Berkeley 4.559,0 4.567,0 BHP Group 2.005,00 2.015,00 BP 312,20 313,88 British American Tobacco 2.793,5 2.806,5 British Land Company 490,25 492,43 BT Group 196,85 199,00 Bunzl 2.355,0 2.359,0 Burberry Group 2.184,0 2.190,0 Carnival 1.710,0 1.727,2 Centrica 50,81 51,16 Coca Cola HBC AG 2.641,0 2.649,9 Compass 1.565,00 1.572,00 CRH 3.570,0 3.577,0 Croda Intl 7.082,0 7.126,0 DCC 5.906,0 5.940,0 Diageo 3.471,0 3.480,6 DS Smith 422,10 425,30 EasyJet 956,20 962,00 Experian 2.769,7 2.785,0 Ferguson 9.722,0 9.788,0 Flutter Entertainment 13.465,0 13.610,0 Fresnillo 819,80 825,20 GlaxoSmithKline 1.414,81 1.425,40 Glencore 294,40 296,55 Halma 2.696,8 2.714,0 Hargreaves Lansdown 1.632,71 1.638,50 Hikma Pharma 2.368,00 2.385,97 HSBC 423,45 426,25 IAG 195,56 197,42 Imperial Brands 1.576,36 1.588,26 Informa 521,60 524,20 InterContinental 5.056,0 5.070,0 Intermediate Capital 2.135,00 2.153,00 Intertek 5.542,0 5.562,0
% CHG. 1.175,00 3.165,9 2.677,4 1.362,00 4.931,0 2.244,4 8.364,0 629,26 489,10 3.554,0 407,60 541,00 527,20 1,278 167,97 694,60 4.473,0 1.980,00 308,70 2.782,0 485,12 195,20 2.323,0 2.152,0 1.692,8 50,22 2.623,6 1.549,00 3.538,0 7.046,0 5.848,0 3.429,4 415,60 929,36 2.744,0 9.602,0 13.400,0 813,60 1.412,20 290,03 2.686,8 1.609,60 2.368,00 422,30 192,21 1.568,00 511,60 4.938,0 2.097,00 5.480,0
NET VOL 141,42K 19,09K 81,07K 21,64K 8,37K 14,32K 47,30K 64,90K 461,62K 16,12K 921,27K 269,67K 433,27K 218,71K 2,55M 639,23K 27,62K 730,68K 2,74M 221,47K 33,31K 4,35M 71,98K 31,27K 38,86K 451,80K 11,94K 233,11K 75,91K 13,47K 16,29K 27,87K 274,46K 304,35K 26,65K 40,99K 14,17K 77,78K 201,29K 4,04M 19,78K 8,62K 1,82K 335,61K 2,77M 47,17K 220,98K 32,17K 55,84K 29,88K
COMPANY
PRICE(P)
ITV J Sainsbury Johnson Matthey Land Securities Legal & General Lloyds Banking London Stock Exchange Meggitt Melrose Industries Mondi National Grid NatWest Group Next Norilskiy Nikel ADR Ocado Persimmon Phoenix Prudential Reckitt Benckiser Relx Rentokil Rightmove Rio Tinto PLC Rolls-Royce Holdings Rosneft DRC Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell A Royal Dutch Shell B Sage Samsung Electronics DRC Sberbank Schroders Scottish Mortgage Segro Severn Trent Smith & Nephew Smiths Group Spirax-Sarco Engineering SSE St. James’s Place Standard Chartered Standard Life Aberdeen Taylor Wimpey Tesco Tui Unilever United Utilities Vodafone Group PLC Whitbread WPP
127,87 269,84 3.027,0 675,00 268,30 46,06 8.034,0 484,00 156,51 1.836,50 925,34 201,30 7.752,0 34,29 1.956,00 3.032,0 696,63 1.441,00 6.475,5 1.919,00 492,80 650,00 5.657,5 106,12 7,26 1.406,2 1.405,81 1.354,6 680,20 1.760,00 16,74 3.544,0 1.233,97 1.090,50 2.517,6 1.527,14 1.593,76 13.240,0 1.514,00 1.454,00 466,00 272,60 162,30 224,40 396,30 4.334,0 1.030,00 127,92 3.204,0 976,40
CHANGE(P)
% CHG.
NET VOL
128,00 274,90 3.048,0 676,80 271,25 46,30 8.080,0 484,60 157,50 1.842,50 929,10 202,30 7.782,0 34,41 1.961,00 3.049,0 714,91 1.449,50 6.523,0 1.924,60 495,16 654,00 5.700,0 106,90 7,37 1.408,8 1.409,51 1.356,8 684,20 1.764,00 16,85 3.579,0 1.244,50 1.099,00 2.530,0 1.528,50 1.599,00 13.350,0 1.523,50 1.462,00 469,25 274,20 163,15 228,31 401,30 4.349,9 1.035,50 128,42 3.219,0 981,20
124,00 268,80 2.983,0 662,00 266,15 45,60 7.912,0 474,56 152,53 1.802,41 920,20 198,90 7.712,0 34,05 1.897,09 2.965,0 692,01 1.418,00 6.394,0 1.904,00 483,20 646,00 5.617,0 104,05 7,25 1.383,6 1.383,00 1.332,8 670,60 1.750,50 16,68 3.530,0 1.221,63 1.087,00 2.495,0 1.515,00 1.571,76 13.165,0 1.497,50 1.440,00 462,85 269,05 158,55 224,28 391,70 4.284,8 1.019,50 126,40 3.145,0 962,92
323,79K 1,26M 30,38K 150,64K 1,08M 19,30M 59,57K 14,77K 339,74K 16,69K 536,04K 1,03M 31,50K 76,50K 48,43K 46,57K 119,33K 63,38K 88,03K 26,56K 51,61K 132,60K 88,67K 4,70M 200,22K 773,90K 772,58K 182,50K 23,96K 2,09K 885,04K 27,86K 217,49K 105,43K 15,76K 49,68K 4,66K 8,50K 209,85K 137,89K 81,58K 110,49K 1,14M 1,46M 566,80K 41,50K 95,16K 7,35M 67,11K 59,49K
1.16335
0.85922
Units per €
US dollar (USD) ......................................1.18875 Japan yen (JPY)......................................130.767 Switzerland franc (CHF) ...........................1.0953 Denmark kroner (DKK) .............................7.4366 Norway kroner (NOK) ...............................10.303
currenciesdirect.com/la-zenia • Tel: +34 965 994 830 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER
DOW JONES C LOSING P RICES J UNE 21
COMPANY 3M Alphabet C Amazon.com Amgen Apple Boeing Caterpillar Chevron Cisco Coca-Cola Facebook Goldman Sachs Home Depot Honeywell IBM Intel J&J JPMorgan McDonald’s Merck&Co Microsoft Nike Procter&Gamble Salesforce.com Tesla UnitedHealth Verizon Visa A Walmart Walt Disney
PRICE 191,60 2.511,35 3.486,90 238,68 130,46 237,35 208,86 103,03 52,07 53,77 329,66 348,83 302,61 212,50 143,12 55,67 161,98 147,92 229,62 76,61 259,43 128,41 132,03 242,78 623,31 389,37 55,82 230,41 135,17 172,42
CHANGE 193,57 2.527,78 3.507,00 241,00 131,51 239,31 211,81 106,27 52,84 54,62 336,15 358,38 303,83 215,29 144,68 56,75 164,19 149,70 232,89 77,22 262,30 129,03 133,35 246,01 628,35 392,66 56,31 232,18 136,39 173,86
CHANGE% VOLUME(M) 191,53 5,05M 2.492,06 2,67M 3.473,71 5,25M 236,47 5,56M 130,24 108,95M 235,80 11,97M 205,50 7,16M 102,91 22,28M 51,88 35,76M 53,72 31,45M 329,00 23,04M 348,13 6,29M 298,40 8,79M 211,96 5,43M 143,04 9,16M 55,10 55,12M 161,79 12,99M 147,56 43,60M 228,82 4,41M 76,16 19,35M 258,75 37,20M 126,68 9,78M 131,94 14,00M 241,06 7,82M 611,80 24,56M 387,25 5,52M 55,57 38,21M 229,22 8,84M 134,40 14,94M 172,12 12,36M M - MILLION DOLLARS
NASDAQ C LOSING P RICES J UNE 21
COMPANY
CHANGE NET / %
VOLUME
Most Advanced NVR Inc. 1.86% Cable One Inc. 3.94% Danaher Corp. 4.75% Mandatory Conv. Pfd. A 4.04% HubSpot Inc. 3.97% CAI International Inc. 46.88% Shopify Inc. Cl A 1.21% Fiverr International Ltd. 7.23% Generac Holdings Inc. 1.97% Texas Pacific Land Corp. 0.47% Twilio Inc. Cl A 1.84% Procore Technologies Inc. 7.33%
40.15K 97.60K 3,383 735.43K 9.447M 2.549M 1.211M 1.421M 109.76K 2.718M 699.92K
Most Declined Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Cl A -1.82% Biglari Holdings Inc. Cl A -7.80% Markel Corp. -2.61% BlackRock Inc. -3.23% Alleghany Corp. -3.69% Direxion Daily Regional Banks Bull 3X Shares -9.93% Mettler-Toledo International Inc. -1.11% Goldman Sachs Group Inc. -3.50% TransDigm Group Inc. -1.88% MicroSectors U.S. Big Oil Index 3X Leveraged ETN-7.36% Asbury Automotive Group Inc. -6.84%
1,903 371 106.74K 1.059M 235.29K 578.60K 464.08K 6.290M 354.86K 324.98K 280.68K
FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL
www.euroweeklynews.com
Credit: Telefónica press centre
Artificial intelligence consortium is a first
NEW TECHNOLOGY: Telefónica is one of the main forces behind the consortium. AS part of Spain’s concentra‐ tion on new technology, six Spanish corporations have cre‐ ated a data economy and arti‐ ficial intelligence consortium. Repsol, Gestamp, Navantia, Técnicas Reunidas, Telefónica, and Microsoft have joined forces to create IndesIA, the first consortium of its kind in the Spanish industrial sector. Focused on Spain with a Eu‐ ropean outlook, the consor‐ tium aims to take on more companies and integrate dif‐ ferent business sectors. IndesIA is a catalyst project whose goal is to position Spain as a leader in data and artifi‐ cial intelligence applications for industry, while also stimu‐ lating a new economy to spark growth at the national level. The Spanish industrial sec‐ tor currently faces a number of important challenges. The need to become more com‐ petitive through automation and optimisation of industrial processes stands out among
these, as does improving sus‐ tainability through energy effi‐ ciency, developing new mate‐ rials with lower environmental impact, and following through the commitment to the circu‐ lar economy. The new consortium ‐ which draws on the support and ex‐ perience of the leading organi‐ zations in this field, such as the Basque Artificial Intelligence Centre (BAIC) ‐ is also focused on working to galvanise em‐ ployment and bridge the train‐ ing gap in STEM disciplines (science, technology, engi‐ neering, and mathematics) to create new high‐skill jobs, while also mobilising the at‐ traction and retention of tech talent in Spain. Data processing will be car‐ ried out in strict adherence with EU data protection and sovereignty principles. This in‐ cludes facilitating mechanisms for data owners to control where data is stored, who has access, and what type of pro‐
President Moon visit THE South Korean President Moon Jae-in attended a major annual economic forum in Spain and addressing the inaugural dinner of the three-day event in Barcelona, Moon proposed that the two countries spearhead preparations for the post-coronavirus era via a win-win approach. During the meeting, Sánchez and Moon Jae-in have shown their harmony on the vision of how to face the great global challenges with renewable energies, technological innovation, the digitisation of the economy and protecting the planet. Both politicians inaugurated a Spanish-South Korean business forum focused on opportunities for bilateral cooperation in the green and digital economy.
cessing can be performed. The consortium is also working with public and pri‐ vate universities to strengthen employability through up‐ skilling and reskilling for em‐ ployees in STEM disciplines, with a special focus on artifi‐ cial intelligence.
BUSINESS EXTRA Ever Given WHILST it was assumed that the unblocking of the Suez Canal would mean that all would go smoothly from then on, owners of the 180,000+ containers on board are still without their products as the ship is caught up in a legal battle with the Egyptian authorities.
Export boost MORE than 100,000 containers were exported from the docks of Valencia in May, a figure that represents an increase of 50 per cent compared to last year, and 12.26 per cent per compared to 2019, a year not affected by Covid-19 according to PortSEurope.
ASDA deal EVEN though an in principle deal was struck between owners Walmart and the Issa brothers to take over ASDA last October, it is only now that the UK competition regulator has confirmed that the €7.3 billion deal may go ahead if the Issa’s sell 27 petrol stations.
24 - 30 June 2021
EWN 31
32 EWN
www.euroweeklynews.com
24 - 30 June 2021
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT ‘THE clapping from the fans is now louder than the booing’; triumphantly declare the supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement. Well bully for them I say. What this reaction does in fact reveal is that this shadowy organisation is managing to cause more division and disruption among the public than ever. It’s the oldest Marxist trick in the book ‐ divide and conquer. Setting half the public against the other, or having one team taking the knee whilst the opposing side abstains, is not helping diversity and integration; it is creating gulfs so wide it is feeding the seeds of animosity like never before. Take one example of the damage the ‘woke’ influence and attitude is having on the general populace. A few years ago UK teams were fined a total of some £80,000 for displaying the poppy on Remembrance Day. At the time they were told that FIFA policies decreed that no political, religious or
More division
FANS CLAPPING: Is now louder than the booing - bully for them! commercial messages could be displayed on the field. How much hostility do you think is being generated among the already beleaguered public when they see players taking the knee and openly displaying BLM propaganda on their
shirts? Have no doubt; this is a dangerous organisation taking advantage of people’s high emotional state to bring its ideologies to bear. Don’t take my word for it. According to the New York Post, in a recently surfaced video, BLM’s co‐
founder Patrisse Cullors stated that she and her fellow organisers are ‘trained Marxists’. It was also reported that Cullors (36) was the protégé of Eric Mann, former agitator of the ‘Weather’ underground domestic terror organisation, and spent years absorbing the Marxist‐ Leninist ideology that has subsequently shaped her world view! The BLM movement also advocates a guaranteed minimum income for all black people, free health care, free schooling, free food, free real estate, free gender reassignment surgery and free abortion (already disproportionately high among African American women ‐ but apparently unborn black lives don’t actually matter to the BLM!) They also want to abolish any plans for new jails, a defunding of the police and a global liberation movement which will overturn imperialism and capitalism! Basically they want it all. Do you think Mr Southgate has any knowledge of these aims when he
FEATURE
instructs his players to take the knee before international matches? Which brings me neatly to last week’s ‘faux pas’ when I had a senior moment and inadvertently referred to England’s manager as Gary Neville instead of Gareth Southgate. Neville was of course assistant manager from 2012 to 2016. But oh how the nasty negatives loved it! I could hear the gleeful rubbing of hands from here. Don’t worry you ‘orrible lot; slips of this nature occur in the best of publications. Many thanks to those who took it all in good spirits, even those who jibed me (some unmercifully!). Perhaps this usually silent majority can also answer me one puzzling question; just why are most of the lefties such a nasty bunch? Sorry I can’t reply to all your letters, but I do take oodles of pleasure in reading every one. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com expatradioscotland.com Mon. Wed. Fri. To read more articles from our columnists and to have your say in the comments go to www.euroweeklynews.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
FEATURE
www.euroweeklynews.com
24 - 30 June 2021
EWN 33
Advertising Feature
Luxurious new apartment building coming to Ciudad Patricia Resort THE Ciudad Patricia Resort which caters for senior residents is about to embark on its latest construction, Edificio Jazmín. B uilding is due to start in 2022 with completion of the 18 luxurious two-bedroom apartments ready for occupation in 2023. The entire resort is aimed at offering exceptional quality of living to those who are now retired with all of the support and security that you could possibly expect to receive. These final 18 modern apartments will be built to the highest standard and are ideal for those who want to enjoy a larger than normal space in the most luxurious of surroundings as they enjoy their retirement lives here in Spain. All of the apartments in the resort are special, but those in Edificio Jazmin go that step further to ensure that they are built to incorporate the latest advances in technology and offer just that bit more to the discerning resident who is looking for the best of everything. Each apartment has two bedrooms, its own terrace or garden, a modern open plan kitchen and two bathrooms, whilst some apartments even have an expansive roof top terrace. The architects have created an exceptional building which integrates harmoniously into the lush green parklands of the resort and the building will be situated close to the central building with its reception area, restaurant and other facilities. It doesn’t matter where you are situated in Jazmin as there are lifts to all floors and once in your apartment there is underfloor heating as well as the latest technology to keep you cool and for those who may be a little hard of hearing, the rooms have sound insulation to ensure that noone is bothered by noise. Each apartment comes with its own individual storage room and if you are a driver, it will be possible to reserve a covered parking space at additional cost. All in all, this is a fantastic opportunity to become a resident at Ciudad Patricia with all of the advantages of a secure friendly resort but with just 18 apartments available and five already reserved, you need to consider finding out more now before they are all snapped up.
Edificio Jazmín.
An exceptional building.
To obtain a brochure or to find out more about this unique opportunity call Amanda Hobbs on (+34) 673 064 288 or email ahobbs@ciudadpatricia.com. You can even WhatsApp Amanda on the same telephone number if you prefer. To learn about the full range of services including 24-hour security and resident doctor, visit the resort website https://www.ciudadpatricia.es.
34 EWN
www.euroweeklynews.com
24 - 30 June 2021
FEATURE
It’s that time of year for you to collect capers… EMMA WALLSWORTH A QUICK description of capers: • Capers are the unripe green flower buds of Capparis spinosa. ... • These are an integral ingredient in Mediter‐ ranean cuisines. • After these pea sized buds are cultivated, they are dried in the sun and used in pickles due to their tangy lemony flavour. • Capers range in size from that of a pepper‐ corn or nonpareil up to the size of a small green olive. • They have a stunning white flower with pink pistils. Tangy, spicy and exotic, capers add a delightful touch to Italian and fish dishes. Capers are mainly used as a seasoning or for garnishing. They have many health benefits as well. Health Benefits: Antioxidant Powers: • Rutin helps in smooth circulation of blood and it can be very helpful in treating strained blood vessels. • Recent research reveals quercetin has anal‐ gesic, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory and an‐ ti‐carcinogenic properties. • Mineral Mine: Capers contain minerals like iron, calcium, cop‐
CAPERS: Have many health benefits. per and high levels of sodium. • Calcium helps in building strong bones, and teeth. • Copper combines with certain proteins to produce enzymes that act as catalyst to help other of body functions. • Iron helps our muscle to store and use oxy‐ gen. It is a part of many enzymes that help our body to digest food. Vitamin Vitality: • Vitamin A improves eyesight and helps us see in the dark. It may also reduce the risk of certain cancers. This essential vitamin helps our body fight off infection and retains our im‐ munity system.
• Vitamin K plays a vital role in bone health. It lowers the risk of blood clotting. • Niacin protects against cardiovascular dis‐ eases and also supports cognitive functions, the nervous and digestive system. • Riboflavin, also called vitamin B2, helps the body to convert food into fuel that keeps us energetic. It is also known to support adrenal function. • Fibre reduces constipation. A tablespoon of capers contains 0.3 grams of fibre, about 3 per cent of your minimum recommended daily fi‐ bre intake. • People who include fat and red meat in their daily diet should eat capers since it destroys certain by‐products found in meat and foods which are rich in fat. These by‐products are of‐ ten responsible for cancer and cardiovascular disease. Could help: • Rheumatism Relief: Capers have been used as a treatment for rheumatic pain. • Relieves Flatulence: Caper relieves stomach ache and flatulence. • Diabetes Buster: Capers help to keep diabetes in check. Capers contain chemicals that keep blood sugar in check. Avoid consuming high quantities of ca‐ pers if you are already using diabetes medicine
as both tend to lower blood sugar. • Congestión Relief: These are also known to prevent chest conges‐ tion. Skin Benefits of Capers: • Dry Skin Relief: Capers are good for dry skin. They can be used directly on the skin to keep it moisturised. • Skin Aid: It is also used in treating skin disorders such as skin redness, irritation and pimples. • Hair Benefits of Capers Capers are widely used in hair care products too since it is rich in vitamin B and iron. Please follow us on: Facebook ‐ The simply Natural Group Facebook Community Page‐ Flora & Fauna You Tube ‐ Simply Back 2 Basics
Emma Wallsworth’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
FEATURE
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TRAVEL GUIDE
Sevilla: A friendly city that has it all
SEVILLA just about has it all. Yet the city man‐ ages to retain a likeable modesty: it’s grand but not flashy, modern but full of history, diverse but traditional. And Spain’s fourth largest city ‐ which is also the capital of Andalucia ‐ is home to three UN‐ ESCO World Heritage Sites. That is probably part of the reason why it has named ‘Best City to Travel’ in the past by the Lonely Planet. Originally a Roman settlement, it has histori‐ cal charm by the bucket load. Later influenced by Moors, Castillians and Muslims, the points of interest in the city are hugely diverse. The Cathedral, Torre Giralda, Plaza de Espana and historical centre are good places to start for antique architecture buffs and pretty‐city strollers. Torre Giralda, the bell tower, is particularly quaint and pleasing on the eye ‐ much like the Royal Tobacco Factory. Christopher Columbus is also buried in the city. Fountains, cobbled streets, greenery and white buildings make up most of the river city’s scenery and ‐ alongside aristocratic mansions ‐ provide some insight into why the place was one of the Moorish empire’s showpiece settlements. On a more modern note, the Metropol Para‐ sol (Las Setas) is the world’s largest wooden
structure. The slightly bizarre monument ar‐ guably looks most impressive at night from the walking platform. Around that time, flamenco dancing, and Spanish restaurant culture make for vibrant but relaxed and friendly districts. There is more than a hint of party atmo‐ sphere, though, indeed, the city’s festivals and crowded bars are considered some of the coun‐ try’s best. For tourists, the Alcazar of Sevilla is an obvious highlight. Drawing on the city’s medieval Islamic heritage, the stunning building, gardens and fur‐ nishing are an intriguing blend of Christian and Moorish architecture. It is not one to miss. The city can be sweltering in summer but is on the warm side of perfect for most of the year, so many are glad of the shade from imposing buildings. Balmy evenings make the tapas scene even more attractive. Local favourites include various seafood dishes, grilled and stewed meats, lamb kidneys in sherry sauce and spinach with chick‐ peas. A ‘Serranito,’ meanwhile, is Sevilla’s an‐ swer to fast food: a warm sandwich with grilled meat, traditional ham, green pepper, tomato and sauce. Fuelled by the tasty lunchtime treat, sight‐ seers can tick off the main attractions in a few days, especially with a bike in one of the many cycle‐friendly routes.
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38 EWN
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24 - 30 June 2021
NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NEVER TRY FOOLING KIDS!
Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist. To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, go to www.euroweeklynews.com/3.0.15/nora-johnson
R E C E N T LY I read somewhere that the terms ‘top set’ and ‘bottom set’ in schools should be replaced with descriptions less demoralising for those who find them‐ selves dumped in the ‘bottom’ one. But children aren’t daft, they soon see through well‐meaning contrivances like the following ones. At the primary school where a friend taught, the tables were all named after flowers. But that didn’t stop one six‐year‐old throwing a wobbly be‐ cause “I don’t want to be on ‘Stupid Table’.” Call it ‘Daisy Table’ all you like, she wasn’t fooled. Another school split the ‘bottom set’ into two. One half had all the students who were not very, um, ‘gifted’ and the other had all those with ‘behavioural’ problems. The two sets were called Flora and Fauna. In yet another school, the streaming was: A) Smart or at least understands exam technique. B) Needs to try harder and knows it. C) Not smart but doesn’t care, just wants to leave school ASAP and make a
FEATURE
by students 1‐Nuts and 2‐Nuts. To get around this, the school changed the classes to 1‐P and 2‐P, which swiftly became known as 1‐Peanuts and 2‐Peanuts. In my aunt’s school they had a ‘Gifted and Talented’ set. I always wondered what that made the others feel like. Another friend had Super Table, Top Table, Middle Table and Bottom Table. Wasn’t great for motivation, but wonderful for teasing. Still, one guy from Bottom Table is now a QC and another runs one of the UK’s biggest companies. Beat that!
SPLITTING CLASSES: Children aren’t daft and soon see things as they really are. few quid. And not have to wear a poncey blazer and tie ever again. But I’m getting a bit ahead of myself. Decades ago in my own junior school in Malta (Verdala, since you ask ‐ and if any‐ one was there too, do let me know!) the
‘Houses’ were named after local luminaries but we kids knew what that was about too. I was in White House, but had to wear a yellow sash (don’t ask!). My uncle’s school had the bottom two classes named 1‐N and 2‐N, rapidly called
Nora Johnson’s psychological crime thrillers ‘The Sentinel’, ‘No Safe Place’, ‘Betrayal’, ‘The Girl in the Woods’, ‘The Girl in the Red Dress’, ‘No Way Back’, ‘Landscape of Lies’, ‘Retribution’, ‘Soul Stealer’, ‘The De Clerambault Code’ (www.nora‐johnson.net) available online as eBook (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, pa‐ perbackand audiobook. All profits to Costa del Sol Cudeca cancer charity.
To read more articles from our columnists and to have your say in the comments go to www.euroweeklynews.com
Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
FEATURE
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24 - 30 June 2021
EWN 39
Which floor are you living on?
ROBERT SHALLIS HAVE you experienced being in an elevator when the doors open to a busy, chaotic, noisy floor full of confusion and stress with people rushing around with what appears to be no real direction? You feel a sense of relief that you are not getting off on that particular floor and experience calm as the doors close. The doors open at another floor which is incredibly dull, lifeless and boring and by that same token you feel grateful that this also isn’t your floor. It’s easy to be on the outside passing judgement in other people’s lives, but not easy to see clearly when we are going through the everyday routine of life whether it’s full of stress and chaos or dull and mundane. We become accustomed to living the way we live and tend to accept things as they are. “Well, that’s just life.’’ As you all too often hear. So, what is your ideal floor and what level are you ‘really’ living on? It would be wonderful to simply switch to another floor and elevate yourself to a better place. However, too
YOUR IDEAL CHOICE: Now is the time to make up your mind.
many of us are stuck where we are and, in some ways, too frightened to press that button to make a change for the better. So, why is this and why do we get so stuck in a situation that we would prefer not to be in? Fear of the unknown and fear of change tends to prevail over our current lives and therefore the outcome we
would really like tends to slot into second place. Fear wins every time. The idea of change is exciting and there is a big part of us that desires change but it doesn’t happen. So how do you get off that particular floor of life and join the ranks of those passing by in the elevator going to places you could only have hoped? Once you have a made that decision
to change, add a few ingredients ‐ belief, faith and trust in your ability. You often hear people say; “well, if they can do it then so can I.” This is because they have experienced another, not unlike themselves, achieve something they too want to achieve. The reality of their experience will give a sense of belief and the urge one to take action as it feels so much more achievable.
Ignore the negativity of others, for they will remain stuck on their own floor of life, the very same you will be closing the doors to as you move on to new heights. When you are in the process of achieving your worthwhile goal or purpose, you will find a sense of happiness and fulfilment as you progress forward. The brave decision alone to change floors, will if anything, ignite roaring fires of excitement and hope. So, which floor are you living on and which floor would you really like to go to? There are only so many tomorrows, if you really want to do something, now is the time! You have a choice, continue to be driven by your fears or allow yourself to be driven by what you really want in order to expand, grow and up‐level. Rob Shallis wwww.robshallis.com To read more articles from our columnists and to have your say in the comments go to www.euroweeklynews.com
Robert Shallis’ opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
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24 - 30 June 2021
GO LOCAL
THE EUROWEEKLY NEWS is urging its readers to support local businesses in the com‐ munity by going local now that the lockdown has ended and for your all your shopping this year, instead of feeding online giants and superstores. We challenge you to redis‐ cover your local high streets, markets, butchers, greengro‐ cers and all of the wonderfully quirky independent businesses in your area. Now that the Covid‐19 pan‐ demic appears to be under control, it is a good idea to try and support many local busi‐ nesses by ordering online and making use of any click and col‐ lect services they can operate, especially if you are unable to get out due to health reasons or any other restrictions. The joy of shopping local means that independent busi‐ nesses can help support the lo‐ cal community. Although it may be a euro or two cheaper elsewhere or on‐ line, consider where your mon‐ ey is actually going. By shopping at an indepen‐ dent store you’re putting food on a local family’s table, and there is no better time than now to give back to your com‐ munity by making a small ges‐ ture and shopping in this way. Many local stores support local charities, support and sponsor local sports teams and in many cases the small inde‐ pendent stores are actually much more than just a small high street shop, they’re a fam‐ ily’s legacy, often passed down through numerous generations and support not just the cur‐ rent owner but the generation before. For those stores which are new, that extra couple of euros
BUY LOCAL: By shopping locally, independent businesses can help support the local community.
spent there are supporting someone’s dream and ambi‐ tion, and also the courage it took them to step out alone, which is no easy task. It takes quite a large chunk of money to set up an independent store and compete with the multina‐ tional and chains. So be sure to pre‐order your meat from a local butcher and get your spuds from a local greengrocer, let us revive that community spirit and get to know our neighbours again. You could also consider pur‐ chasing gift vouchers from local businesses to help them over the coming weeks, thinking outside the box can often lead to some fantastic ideas. Why not buy a meal for two, an hour’s tattoo time at a local studio, a hair cut at a local sa‐ lon or an online study course for someone looking to change their career path. As people are struggling with finances thinking about what friends and family may actually need is important too. Whilst it’s nice to give a glamourous gift perhaps pre‐paying a fami‐
ly member’s phone bill for the month would actually be a bet‐ ter gift. Helping people allevi‐ ate stress and worry, give the gift of peace of mind through these difficult times. Choosing to spend your money locally will really make a difference in the recovery of the local economy. When we buy local, our money stays lo‐ cal, and it strengthens the local economy in two ways. First, buying local keeps money cir‐ culating within the local econo‐ my. Studies have shown that lo‐ cal businesses recirculate a greater share of every euro as they create locally owned sup‐ ply chains and invest in their employees. Data shows that local retail‐ ers return 52 per cent of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14 per cent for national chain re‐ tailers. Money circulating through the local economy benefits ev‐ eryone who is a part of each transaction. For example, let’s look at a local farmer growing
produce. First, they sell to a local restaurant, which in turn pre‐ pares the fresh produce and sells it to local customers. The farmer pays its local employees and the restaurant uses rev‐ enue from sales to buy supplies from a neighbourhood hard‐ ware store. This example illus‐ trates how the recirculation of money in the local economy leads to a stronger financial foundation for our neighbours and communities. Buying local also fuels new employment and job opportu‐ nities for people within our community. Studies show, locally owned businesses employ more peo‐ ple per unit of sales and retain more employees over time. A fantastic example of how to support your local commu‐ nity is with a Charity Gift certifi‐ cate, why not donate to your loved one’s favourite cause. Just remember to still follow the latest government advice and any guidance businesses have to keep everyone safe in the future.
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46 EWN
24 - 30 June 2021
www.euroweeklynews.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Pesky pollen
ACHOO!: High pollen counts at this time of year can be unbearable for some.
THIS is the time of year when people can really suffer from the symptoms of hay fever. As grass, plants and trees release pollen into the air which is blown about in the wind and easily inhaled by humans and pets. With one in five Brits thought to suffer from hay fever you aren’t alone, but there are some things you can do to reduce the symptoms. Of course, you’ll know if you’re affected. Your eyes will become watery and itchy, you’ll begin to sneeze and your nose will run. These symptoms will often be combined with headaches and tiredness. In addition to taking some antihistamine tablets, here are a few other tips. Try to avoid being outside in the early morning and the late evening. In the morning pollen gets lifted and carried up into the air, descending again in the evening. These times can be particularly troublesome on warm, humid and windy days. And in Spain, night time can be particularly worse. With the higher temperatures here, the pollen often doesn’t descend until long after sunset, meaning sufferers can really struggle if they’ve left their windows open. Pollen can also stick to your hair and clothing, so be sure to change your clothes and shower as soon as you’re through the door. The NHS offers some additional advice. They suggest to wear wraparound sunglasses and to put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap the pollen. However, the bad news is that they also recommend avoiding beer, wine and spirits as these contain histamine, the chemical that sets off allergy symptoms in the body.
What a turn off Y O U may be addicted to staring at your screen for hours upon end. But a new study has shown that high-levels of screen time are associated with a
higher risk of ‘all-cause mortality’ as well as a higher risk of both heart disease and cancer. The research carried out by the University of
Glasgow looked at the amount of time 390,089 volunteers spent staring at a T V or computer screen during their free time. They found a link between high levels of screen time and poor health. In fact, being stuck to the screen outside of work is a symbol of a sedentary life-style associated with a higher risk of mortality and cardiovascular disease. The findings were independent of B M I, diet, smoking, physical activity and other major factors such as socio-economic status. Dr Carlos Celis, who authored the study, said: “the findings suggest people with the lowest levels of strength, fitness and physical activity could potentially gain the greatest benefit from health promotion interventions.”
HEALTH & BEAUTY
www.euroweeklynews.com
Bottoms up!
RECENT research in Spain has revealed that women have more discerning palates and are better at telling the differences between wines. It also found that compared to men, women were more likely to describe themselves as feeling ‘joyful’ when drinking white wine. A total of 208 volunteers took part in a blind tasting of six different wines, two whites, one rose, and three reds. The volunteers were then asked about the quality of the wine and the feelings it evoked. The research was led by Dr Carolina Chaya
from the Technical University of Madrid. Speaking of the research, she said: “Emotions like good, happy, joyful, mild and pleasant were positively associated with attributes such as fruity and floral, and more negative emotions like aggressive and guilty were associated with attributes related to red wine.” The report in the journal Food Quality and Preference also found that the young feel less guilty about drinking than older tipplers. And that older drinkers tend to drink to remember whilst younger drinkers to forget.
JOYFUL: Research advises drinking white wine to avoid negative emotions.
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EWN 47
Research retracted
A LANDMARK paper from 2013 that uncovered the benefits of a Mediterranean diet on the heart has just been retracted by a prestigious medical journal. The study carried out by the New England Journal of Medicine was found to contain errors. Apparently, the study did not remove flawed Spanish data which on later analysis showed the claim to be weaker than initially suggested. The original study claimed that eating a Mediterranean diet supplemented with olive oil or nuts slashed the risk of heart attack or stroke by 30 per cent. However, after being retracted the revised paper claims that there is simply a correlation between this particular diet and benefits for the heart. The study was retracted due to concerns that participants who took part in the initial research weren’t of a similar height, weight and age. Without this correlation, the results of any trial could be compromised. Professor Naveed Sattar,
QUESTIONABLE DIET: Findings about the Mediterranean diet have been withdrawn. from Glasgow University which initially carried out the research said: “This is a highly unusual step and I am sure that the NEJM took this decision very seriously.” In fact, after the reanalysis, little changed in terms of the overall results of the Spanish re-
search of nearly 7,500 people. And even though the findings have been retracted, he stated that it was “reassuring” to see the results remained broadly similar. So it would seem that this research was flawed, but the benefits of the Mediterranean diet are still self-evident.
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24 - 30 June 2021
www.euroweeklynews.com
SOCIAL SCENE
Advertising Feature
Top quality international cuisine
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feel, with live entertainment, music and cocktails. Join a fun quiz and lucky cards on Wednesdays and Sundays. For an inti‐ mate evening, dining in the restaurant is ideal. Dark wooden beams, exposed stone walls and the delicately laid out ta‐ bles gives a cosy ambience. An à la carte menu is available and special occasions can be catered for, booked in advance. The Bonanza Restaurant and Bar is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, however will open for group bookings on these days and also private parties and group bookings are always welcome.
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SOCIAL SCENE
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Torrevieja will shine
AUGUST FESTIVAL: A week of events and concerts. BRILLA TORREVIEJA is the first edition of a ‘Festival Boutique’ offering more than just music between August 1 and 7. Separate events will create an idyllic atmosphere where the public can connect with culture and experience unique and unforgettable moments, promised Torrevieja’s Culture councillor Antonio Quesada. The town will also be welcoming national and international artistes in concerts at the Eras de la Sal precinct in a privileged setting surrounded by
quays and wharves. August 1: Pol Granch, Spain’s X-Factor winner in 2018 August 2: Niña Pastori, Flamenco singer August 3: God Save the Queen tribute group August 4: Jorge Drexler, Uruguayan singer August 5: RVFV and Lennis Rodriguez Reggaeton duo August 6: El Canijo de Jerez (pop), Uña y Carne (flamencopop) and La Cochera (Orihuela group). August 7: Sidecars, Spanish rock-pop group from Madrid
Brilla Torrevieja’s promoters stressed that as well as these concerts there will be parallel activities for children, families and all age groups throughout the week. “We want to promote tourism and local commerce in the zone, involving Torrevieja’s tourist sector as well as its shops and businesses, with events that can help the region’s economy,” they explained. Tickets for the concerts are now available on the www.bril latorrevieja.com website.
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24 - 30 June 2021
DAVID WORBOYS SEVENTY years ago, when football was still the beautiful game, it was known in England as soccer (Association Football) to distinguish it from rugger (Rugby Football). The player at outside right wore a number 7 on his shirt and was known as a right‐winger, the most fa‐ mous of whom was Stanley Matthews. Today, ‘right‐winger’ at its extreme has a more sinister meaning. After the Second World War, with extreme right‐wing aspirations defeat‐ ed, there was a move in the west from nationalism towards socialism. Com‐ munist support rose in France and Italy, but this would not solve any‐ thing. It was social democracy, as epit‐ omised by the Swedes’ implementa‐ tion of a mixed economy and social justice, that pointed the way. In a few decades, the underprivi‐ leged began to find hope. They could increasingly participate in the develop‐ ing wealth created ironically by capital‐ ism. Wealth and income became more evenly divided. New opportuni‐ ties and experiences opened up and fewer people were left behind.
OUTSIDE RIGHT
STANLEY MATTHEWS: Played outside right with number 7. This century, in many countries, the gulf between rich and poor has widened considerably. Public services, including education and health, have been reduced in favour of private out‐ sourcing, while tax systems are de‐ signed to benefit the super‐rich and the privileged at the expense of the disad‐ vantaged.
FRANCO: An outside right dictator.
The principles of socialism are recog‐ nition that those born with privileges (mental and physical fitness, as well as silver spoons) should support those lacking in opportunities. It is, by defini‐ tion, left‐wing. Well into the new cen‐ tury, it has become fashionable to dis‐ parage any form of socialism. Anybody trying for social change is disdainfully
dismissed as a ‘leftie’. But, although a controlled economy produces less wealth in the long run, it attempts to distribute it more fairly. Of course, the right stands for a capitalist, free market economy which generates wealth. In principle it means more wealth for all, but in practice it produces wealth mainly for
FEATURE
the privileged. Not an ideal solution. But it’s the extreme (or outside) right that can cause so much injustice as it seeks to discourage, hold back ‐ or even eliminate ‐ individuals and coun‐ tries that it considers inferior under‐ performers. During my lifetime, the outside right has brought us nationalism with Hitler, Franco, Daesh and the Trump‐era Re‐ publicans. Terrified of any form of so‐ cialism, quite apart from communism, the USA has befriended and supported such tyrants and oppressors as Batista, the Shah of Iran, Ariel Sharon, Pinochet, Netanyahu and Prince Mo‐ hammed bin Salman. It seems that the USA equates any form of socialism with the communist autocracies from Stalin and Mao to Putin and Xi Jinping. In 1965, Stanley Matthews managed Port Vale for no salary. For many years he spent his summers freely coaching children in various African countries. He later established an all‐black team of impoverished boys in Apartheid‐rid‐ dled South Africa. Not exactly the ac‐ tions of an outside right. To read more articles from our columnists and to have your say in the comments go to www.euroweeklynews.com
David Worboys’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
52 EWN
www.euroweeklynews.com
24 - 30 June 2021
FEATURE
Welcome to the dry summer
LETTER FROM
CANARIES
DEAR reader, welcome to June and summer. Down here on the islands we’ve al‐ ready had a taste of things to come, with an out of control fire which burnt hectares of land, approaching the Tei‐ de National Park, beautiful at the mo‐ ment with its extraordinary tajinaste flowers, at a horribly fast pace. It was disastrous. High winds fanned the fire, the air was dry, the firefighters exhausted. Then the wind changed direction, a day later it dropped completely and the fire was under control, then out. And it was still only May, albeit late May! There have been small fires in oth‐ er locations, more easily put out be‐ cause of different weather condi‐ tions, but there’s a big problem waiting to happen and, although there’s always danger of summer fires, this year the situation’s exacer‐
DRY GRASS: Makes for stunning landscapes, but it’s tinder waiting for a spark. bated by the amount of tall grasses and excessive undergrowth on all the islands, caused by much heavier than usual rainfall during the winter months. Spring was beautiful, with green, wildflower‐dotted landscapes every‐ where. The downside being that ev‐ erywhere dried out by late April when dry weather started earlier than usual. Rain in the Canaries isn’t the ‘to‐ day’s a rainy day,’ type, by the way.
It pelts down for anywhere be‐ tween five minutes to an hour, then it’s sunny again. This winter enough fell to fill all the reservoirs and green up places I’ve never seen green before in the 35 years we’ve been here. The resultant tall, dry grass rip‐ pling in the breeze everywhere now also makes for stunning land‐ scapes, contrasting with the dark drystone walled terraces, but it’s tinder waiting for a spark, much of
MOUNTAIN SLOPES: Contrast with deep valleys. it inaccessible. The Canarians have constructed agricultural land by painstakingly ter‐ racing mountain slopes and deep val‐ leys. Although there’s more flat land on the Eastern islands, the Western province has precipes in abundance.
You need to come and see for your‐ selves really, but please refrain from doing anything that causes sparks if you do. Barbara Belt. barbarabelt@gmail.com EWN June 2021.
Barbara Belt’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
FEATURE
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24 - 30 June 2021
EWN 53
Advertising Feature
Seven benefits of window tinting
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UV PROTECTION: Window tinting protects your furniture from fading. protects your furniture from fading so you can en‐ joy it for longer. Reduce annoying glare by 85 per cent Allowing a good amount of sunlight into your home is nice, but direct glare from the sun through your windows can be really strong. It’s annoying and unpleasant, and depending on how your fur‐ niture is laid out, it may be impossible to escape. If you’re using a computer or watching the TV, the reflection of this glare on your screen can also cause headaches and distractions, but who wants to draw the curtains in the middle of the day?
Enjoy energy savings Solar‐control film can significantly reduce air conditioning bills, and wear and tear of your units, thus saving you money on your electricity bills. Increase privacy Stop prying eyes from seeing into your property during the day. With the mirror‐finish film, you can see out, yet no one can see in. We also have frost‐ ed film for glass balconies and ensuites. Enhance appearance Enhance the exterior of any home or office and get the look you desire with an extensive range of
solar‐control and decorative films, which are avail‐ able in a wide range of colours. Fast and easy Mark, the owner of Cool Glass Tinting, is fully qualified and trained with Ultimate Tinting in the UK before moving to Spain. Mark operates a competitive pricing policy and offers free, no‐obligation quotations and advice on the type of tinting required. Solar‐screen film applied by Mark of Cool Glass Tinting is easy to clean, requires no special mainte‐ nance and lasts for 10 years or more.
Contact Cool Glass Tinting Tel: 608 100 610 or email: info@coolglasstinting.com.
PETS
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Do you have pets who need a sitter this summer?
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IF you are planning a trip later this year you still need to plan early for pet and house‐sitters. Perhaps you are already mak‐ ing plans for a staycation get away. Even if you are planning just a short trip, you’ll know that you simply can’t travel with some pets. Mature pets may benefit from staying be‐ hind so they can follow their routines at home. So, plan ahead. Take a moment to plan ahead for pet and house‐sitters, if you have trips planned later this year. Now is the time to get ready. We will help you as much as we can. Our philosophy is that we are all in this together. These are the steps to take: 1. Register as a homeown‐ er on HouseSitMatch.com 2. Choose a Premium ac‐ count (£89 per year) to ensure you can help online when need‐ ed 3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the
The heat is coming and you have to be careful with heatstroke in your dog
It can be hard to find pet-sitters when you have multiple pets. Let us help.
house 4. Post a house‐sit advert stating your plans for your next holiday, Covid permitting Do you need a pet‐sitter in 2021? Then get started right now. How does it work? HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert say‐ ing when you are going on holi‐ day. House‐sitters see your ad‐
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IF a pet’s body temperature exceeds 39.5°C, it is considered ab‐ normal or hyperthermic. The most common cause of heatstroke is leaving a dog in a car or a closed room with inadequate ventilation, no access to shade or water, excessive or vigorous exercise on a hot day. Brachycephalic breeds (flat‐faced dogs such as French and En‐ glish bulldogs, pugs and boxers) are at greater risk. Dogs cannot control their body temperature by sweating as hu‐ mans do since they only have a relatively small number of sweat glands located in their footpads. Their primary way of regulating body temperature is by panting. The first sign to appear is panting. The heart rate increases and if heatstroke progresses, confu‐ sion or disorientation, bright red gums vomiting or diar‐ rhoea. Finally collapse, seizures and coma can occur. Heatstroke is an immediate medical emergency and you must go to your vet as soon as possible. Controlled reduction of body temperature is a priori‐ ty.
In Costablanca Sur: Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante
www.resonanciaveterinaria.es
Do dogs really dream about their owners? ACCORDING to a new theory developed by a Harvard psy‐ chologist, dogs are likely to dream about their owners when they sleep. It has already been shown that our four‐ legged friends have a similar sleep pattern to humans, con‐ sisting of a phase of deep sleep followed by a period of REM
(rapid eye movement). As dreams are believed to take place during this time, there is no reason that a dog’s night‐time reveries wouldn’t be similar to those of humans. Given that humans tend to dream about the information they process during the day, Dr Deidre Barret, a Clinical and
Evolutionary Psychologist at Harvard Medical School, be‐ lieves there’s no reason that dogs shouldn’t do the same. As dogs are extremely at‐ tached to their owners, Dr Bar‐ ret claims that it’s likely that a dog’s dreams are in some way related to their owner; be that the owner’s face, smell or what they do to please or annoy their owner. Unfortunately for cat own‐ ers, feline companions are thought to be more self‐inter‐ ested when they doze. As they are more independent by na‐ ture, their dream‐life will likely reflect this, so they are more likely to dream about hunting prey and their outdoor pur‐ suits.
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BUILDING SERVICES J & J PAINTERS. Inside outside - clean - fast low cost. Torrevieja Orihuela Costa and surrounding areas. Tel: 650 363 159 (290728)
BUY & SELL PRIVATE collector will buy your Gold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)
CARE HOME CARE /NURSING HOME. COMPLETE PROFESSIONAL CARE. REASONABLE RATES. CALL 697 834 934 (291981)
CHARITY ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life – damaging everything that is important to you. Englishspeaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912
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078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca. org (93323) CAMPELLO CONTRA CANCER in conjunction with AECC Association Español Contra Cancer. Please support your local Cancer charity and if you wish to obtain literature or simply talk to someone. Please contact Mina or Trisha. Tel 650 071 278 or 610 921 413 e-mail aecc_campello@hotmail.co m (95475) CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462) CHURCH SERVICE IN ENGLISH Tel: 950 617 549 w w w. g i v i n g l i g h t . c o m . (10006) FREEMASONRY. Are you aware that Freemasonry is thriving on the Costa Blanca? There are various Lodges meetings up throughout the Valencia region. If you already are a Mason or simply wish to know more about Freemasonry in Spain please contact sec@glpvalencia.com Tel 600 841 064 (95477) HELP VEGA BAJA. We are a non-profit making organisation that helps and supports anyone, without prejudice, in times of need or crisis within the Vega Baja area. Our offices are based in San Miguel at Calle Lope de Vega 46 (Tel 966 723 733), Torrevieja at Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 4 (Tel
60
965 704 282). We are online at www.helpvegabaja. com and also on Facebook. You can email the San Miguel Centre at office@helpvegabaja.com. We also have a 24-hour Emergency helpline which is available to both members and nonmembers on 966 723 733 (95456) INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY, TORREVIEJA Calle Urbano Arregui, 23, Torrevieja 03185, Alicante Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday morning Sevices at 10am and 11:30am. All nationalities welcome - Contact 966 752 543 / 966 799 273. For other church matters phone: 966 799 273 / /617 215 463 www.icator revieja.org (95476) LA SIESTA EVANGELICAL CHURCH on Urbanisation La Siesta, Torrevieja is a friendly, English speaking church. For more information see our website w w w. l a s i e s t a e va n g e l i calchurch.org (10005) PHILIP SCOTT LODGE No 10671 of the RAOB. Please call the secretary, Colin Bird on 693 287 614 for further information. (95459) PILAR CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY CHURCH. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information, www.pilarchurch.org Reg No: 2009-SG/A (95463) ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH 1359. The association supports the welfare needs of ex-members of the RAF and their dependents. Due to ongoing covid-19 restrictions we cannot hold General Meetings at the moment. In normal times we provide a social hub for members and hold lunches every month. To fund Welfare we raise money through the Wings Appeal. To find out more contact Chairman Tony at tony.elaine.cuenta@gmai l.com. For Welfare contact Andy on 0034 711 00 86 84. For general information on RAFA visit www.rafa.org.uk. . (238593) ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Why not make this year the year you volunteer? See how you can help either as a caseworker (with full training) or as a Telephone Buddy. We also visit beneficiaries who are housebound or in hospital. If you feel you could support us
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here in Spain, and you have a Spanish phone number then why not email us for more info tbuddyhhvisits@ gmail.com. If you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us using the details on the card, we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly, just call and have a chat with Pam who will try to guide you to where you need to be. If you would like to go to a branch meeting then find your nearest one at, http://branches.britishle gion.org.uk/branches/ori huela-costa - covering from Punta Prima to San Javier. More info can be found on branch website www.ori huelacostarbl.co.uk. (95457) ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch. For info, contact the branch Secretary at granalacant.secretary@rbl.c ommunity ROYAL MARINES ASSOCIATION (Costa Blanca) The aim of the Association is to bring together not just ex Royal Marines, but ex Service personnel with an affinity to the Royal Marines. For further details Hon Sec 692 938 664. (10004) ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION For information please contact Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 966 716 274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 966 921 996. (95455) STROKE ASSOCIATION Spain (formally known as Torrevieja stroke support) Our aim is to help and support stroke survivors and their carers. With rehabilitation, speech therapy, OC therapy and a very active social group. For info please contact 654 801 260 or email strokesupport group@hotmail.com, website: torreviejastrokesup port.org. We are always looking for volunteers who have the skills and knowledge to support. (95473) THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA BRANCH. Former & serving aircrews of the UK or Allied
Armed Forces are welcome to join this convivial & friendly organisation, now in its 21st year. www.aca costablanca.org or call the Secretary on: 966 495 042 (95465) THE ANGLICAN CHURCH, La Fustera. For more info: contact Frank Bentley on 966 495 188. (95461) THE BAKER Foundation Spiritual Centre Playa Flamenca. Calle Luis Gordillo, 1 Playa Flamenca Alicante 03189. You can join us on Facebook, The Baker Foundation spiritual centre. Or contact Linda Schug Tel. 606 990 665 for more details (95458) THE PATIENCE LODGE No 2177 of the R.A.O.B Please call Secretary Dave Tonge on 688 704 091 for further information. (253807) THE SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, Benijofar will be closed for the immediate future due to Covid-19. Identification Fiscal G54713789 (95454)
ELECTRICIAN MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler re-
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FOR SALE WANTED Gold, Silver, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)
GENERAL SERIVCES MAN & Van, small removals, shopping/collections. Painting, Cleaning / Window Services available. Santa Pola, Gran Alacant, El Altet & La Marina areas. No job too small. Affordable & reliable. Tel 711 073 074 (291953)
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MUSIC TUITION PIANO, Keyboard, Organ, Qualified Teacher. Please call 606 984 535 (290217)
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS BATHROOM & KITCHEN Conversions Costa Blanca, contact 698 320 434. (288085)
INSURANCE FED UP OF NOT BEING SENT YOUR RENEWAL? CUT YOUR INSURANCE COSTS AND STILL HAVE 100% COVER. YOU HAVE TRIED THE REST NOW TRY THE BEST WITH SOS INSURANCE. WE CAN EVEN INSURE YOU FOR UPTO A €1000 OF WATERLOSS. CALL 686116297 (WHATS APP TO) OR VISIT www.sosinsurancein spain.com or email tracey@sosinsurancein spain.com (292419) BENEFICIAL INSURANCE SERVICES. Car, Home, Business, Travel, Life, Funeral, all insurances available. Policies in English. BEST rates, covers & service. Immediate quotes. Tel 961 129 215 / 622 275 561, (WhatsApp) in fo@beneficialinsurancein spain.com or visit www.ben eficialinsuranceinspain.com for online quote. (292527) STAY SAFE! Abbeygate Insurance Call 971 277 455 For your security www.abbey gateinsure.com
MISCELLANEOUS GOLD & SILVER Bought & Sold, Rolex & Patek Philippe Watches Tel – 678 716 693 (288662)
MOBILITY FOR SALE: TGA Vita Lite Mobility Scooter colour dark blue front basket included. 119cm x 62cm, good condition. Quick Sale €550, Contact: 606 406 159 (291464)
QUALITY LHD & RHD Vehicles bought & sold. All paperwork undertaken quickly & professionally. Immediate payment for all purchases. Mobile / WhatsApp +34 600 726 221 Office +34 965 687 946 www.fwreurocars.com info@fwreurocars.com (292431)
FOR SALE WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 902 123 309. (200726) www.euroweeklynews.com
INTERNATIONAL SKIPPER LICENCE: Courses held in English and starts soon. RYA VHF and Radar Courses. 626 245 098 (292934)
PAINTER/DECORATOR FOR all your painting needs, interior/exterior, fully legal, FREE quotes. 620 112 193 (Whatsapp) (292592)
PERGOLAS TAILOR MADE, durable canvas, sails, umbrella, spa and CAR COVERS. Mazarron based, and serving the Costa Blanca too. Mail Order and Ordering online 667 879 399 krugercanopies@yahoo.co.u k (289648)
PET CHARITY EASYHORSE CARE RESCUE CENTRE. We aim to rescue HORSES. If you would like to DONATE please call 965 967 033 or sales@easyhorse care.net www.easyhorse care.net or call Sue 652 021 980 (95706)
24 - 30 June 2021 GATAMI ORGANISATION, to help kittens and cats, looking for good homes, also spaying wild cats in the community. Kittens require adoption, fully vaccinated, dewormed, de-flead. volunteers to Tel Anna: 966 806 976 / 654 729 977 (95709) P.E.P.A. VOLUNTEERS & FOSTER HOMES URGENTLY NEEDED. By fostering an abandoned dog or spending a few hours each week on our telephone helpline, you could help save the lives of many animals. Please call: 650 304 746. For more information browse our website: www.pepaspain.com (95708) SPAMA GANDIA SHELTER. Dog and cat rescue registered charity, La Safor area. 500 animals awaiting rehoming. Phone Gail 962 896 118. Visit our website for directions. www.spama.org and view our new blog at w w w . s p a m a safor.blog.com.es PLEASE HELP US TO HELP THEM (95707)
PLUMBERS MR FIXIT. For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434 (286558)
POOL MAINTENANCE POOL MAINTENANCE Repairs, Spares and Leak Testing. Call 965 725 565 / 676 945 360 www.pooltech spain.com (283443)
PROPERTY FOR RENT
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XXX RELAXATION Please note that in Spain there is NO legislation banning adverts in this section. Neither regional nor national governments are able to pass such a law due to rules governing freedom of publication and printing. READERS OF A SENSITIVE DISPOSITION MAY FIND SOME OF THE ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS SECTION OFFENSIVE.
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24 - 30 June 2021
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MOTORING
Full Speed Cameras In Use AS summer in Spain officially began on June 21, many peo‐ ple will go on some sort of hol‐ iday, some will travel by boat, others by plane, others by train, but the majority will do so by road, in a car or motor‐ cycle, and they are the ones who need to be aware that the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has guaranteed that this summer they will be out in force monitoring the roads, with a full arsenal of speed cameras in operation. The DGT has reminded road users that it controls the speed on the road through different methods and devices, in differ‐ ent locations: gantries, posts, side cabins, vehicles, tripods, and the reason is they say, ‘Be‐ cause speed brings fines.’ With the DGT controlling the roads so strictly, it is well worth being aware of the type of radar equipment they have available, so here is some in‐ formation, with their descrip‐ tions as given by the DGT in its magazine. Portable: The DGT explains, “These devices are usually radars themselves: an antenna
SPEED CHECKS: The DGT will be monitoring the roads. emits a signal, this ‘bounces’ against the moving vehicle and returns to the antenna. The variation produced in the fre‐ quency of the wave allows the radar to calculate the speed of the vehicle at that moment. They are automatic equip‐ ment, they do not require an operator.” Posts: “Most of them are of the radar type, but there are also the laser type. Located on the side of the road.” Side Cabins: “They can be radars and laser kinemome‐ ters. The latter ‘shoot’ several beams of light transverse to the road. When a moving vehi‐ cle interrupts them, the device
calculates its speed.” Vehicles: “Installed in patrol vehicles, they are operated by officers of the Guardia Civil Traffic Group and the Local Po‐ lice, and can be used both in static and in motion,” and these of course are the type that can be where you least expect them! Tripod: “Located on the side of the road and operated by officers.” Average Speed: “They con‐ sist of two or more artificial vi‐ sion cameras that calculate the average speed of the vehicle throughout the section. Cur‐ rently there are 62 section radars operating.”
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ROAD TEST by Mark Slack WE’RE used to manufacturers launching specification changes and styling tweaks, but Vauxhall has gone somewhat further with their latest Mokka. It’s so different that during my week’s test I had two previous generation Mokka owners asking me what I was driving. In a way that’s not surprising, because one of the things lacking on the new Mokka is the name Vauxhall. There’s the Griffin badge but try‐ ing to find the word Vauxhall is a harder task, it’s nestled in small script on the Griffin badges.
Something different.
24 - 30 June 2021
The Latest Vauxhall Mokka My SRi Premium model was finished in metallic grey with black trim and a red flash above the windows, making it a head turner for all the right reasons. The interior is equally adventur‐ ous with a modern look and judi‐ cious use of highlights to remove any trace of styling sobriety. There’s generous use of piano black on the dash and centre console, which makes me won‐ der about longer term durability when keys and rings are in close contact over a period of time. There’s the inevitable digitalisa‐
tion with few buttons, but it’s far from the worst I have encoun‐ tered, even so ‘bring back but‐ tons!’ One issue I found in extremely hot weather was a lack of decent ventilation due to a dearth of vents and poor positioning. The centre vent is too low down to direct cool air to your face. This results in having the fan on a higher setting with resultant noise to the otherwise refined cabin. On the road the 1.2‐litre, three‐cylinder petrol engine has plenty of get‐up‐and‐go and pro‐ duces a lovely thrumming noise under hard acceleration. The
eight‐speed automatic gears are smooth and quick to react, and there are flappy paddles on the steering wheel when you fancy pretending you’re an SUV F1 rac‐ er. There’s commendably little body roll and the ride comfort is
good even over the roughest roads. While interior space is not at all bad, the boot errs on the small side but remains capacious enough for most owners. The Mokka endeared itself very quickly, the over excited lawn mower soundtrack under
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hard acceleration, the modern looks, excellent equipment and driving experience. It stands out as something different to the usual compact SUV crowd. It’s a good job as although the range starts at €24,169 (£20,740) my SRi Premium weighs in at €31,994 (£27,455) and there’s plenty of competition, not least from the likes of Toyota and Peu‐ geot.
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Netherlands Cruise Through THE Netherlands were in ac‐ tion on Monday June 21, in their final Group C match against North Macedonia, hav‐ ing already qualified top of the group. It was more about strengthening their reputation in the eyes of other teams who might have to play them, and they certainly did that, running out 3‐0 winners at the Johan Cruyff ArenA in Amsterdam. Making it three wins out of three, captain Georginio Wij‐ naldum helped himself to a brace, and Barcelona new‐boy Memphis Depay got the other goal, in front of 12,000 supporters. A devastating counter‐attack from the Dutch led to the first goal, as former Man United player Daley Blind stole the ball in his own penalty area, ending with Donyell Malen’s cross being smashed into the net by Depay, after 24 min‐
utes, his ninth goal in his last 10 appearances for Holland. Netherlands captain Wijnal‐ dum secured the three points with two goals in seven minutes in the second half, the first a simple tap‐in on 51 minutes af‐ ter Depay’s pinpoint cross, and then his second came after
keeper Stole Dimitrievski blocked another Depay shot, only for it to land perfectly for Wijnaldum to again finish from close‐range. North Macedonia offered very little, except for Darko Churlinov having a second‐half goal ruled out for offside, and Aleksandar Trajkovski hitting the woodwork, but what an af‐ ternoon for their 37‐year‐old captain Goran Pandev, who was making his 122nd and final ap‐ pearance for his country, and was given a guard of honour by his teammates, retiring as the record appearance holder, and record goalscorer, with 38 goals for his country. As the Netherlands cruise through, a last‐ 16 game awaits them in Budapest, where they will play the best third‐placed team from Group D, E, or F.
DEPAY: Barcelona’s new-boy.
Belgium Leave It Late B E LG I U M took on Finland in the final match in Group B on Monday June 21, in the Saint Peters‐ burg Stadium, al‐ ready safely through to the knockout stage of Euro 2020, but their opponents, Finland, had it all to play for, as a draw would see them join the Bel‐ BELGIUM: Are through to the last 16 in the Euros. gians in the last 16, no matter what hap‐ pened in the Denmark and Russia match. less Hradecky, for his 17th goal in the last 21 Everything was going to plan for the Finns, internationals, and to secure the points, three until disaster struck for their Bayer Lev‐ wins out of three for the Belgians. erkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky in the Denmark meanwhile, thrashed the Rus‐ 74th minute, as he tried to catch a rebound sians 4‐1 in the other group game, with goals off the post from 35‐year‐old defender Ver‐ from Damsgaard, Poulsen, Christensen, and maelen’s header, only for the ball to bounce Maehle setting them up with a last‐16 clash off his hand and into the empty net to give with Wales in Amsterdam on Saturday night, Belgium the lead. June 26. Romelu Lukaku then decided to get a slice The defeat ‐ and Denmark’s 4‐1 victory of the action on 81 minutes ‐ having already over Russia in Copenhagen ‐ saw Finland drop had what looked like a perfectly good goal to third place in the group, and their dream of ruled out for offside by VAR ‐ fed by Kevin De‐ the last 16 was over, as both Ukraine and Bruyne, spinning with the ball just yards from Switzerland, are guaranteed to finish above the goal, and smashing a shot past the help‐ Finland in the standings.