Dep. Legal MA-422-2006 - ISSN 2953-42536
Axarquia I No. 2146 I 20 - 26 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Heroes without wings Beyond the LOCAL POLICE in Frigiliana, officers Marcos and Antonio have been publicly congratulated by the town hall for their crucial role in saving the life of a 74-yearold British tourist who suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest in the area. Responding at once to an extremely serious situation, the agents raced to the location of the incident. Coordinating their efforts with the collaboration of the man’s relatives, the owner of the property where he was lodged and the medical emergency teams, they started a prolonged process of cardiopulmonary resuscitation that continued for a considerable time. Thanks to this combined work the patient recovered his vital signs prior to being transferred
vali.lung - Shutterstock
TWO LOCAL POLICE OFFICERS COMMENDED FOR SAVING BRIT MAN’S LIFE
Two heroes patrol streets of Frigiliana.
to hospital for further treatment and observation. Town hall spokespeople have praised the professionalism, commitment and preparation displayed by both officers in a critical scenario where every second proved decisive. Municipal leaders have also
underlined the importance of having personnel skilled in first aid techniques to deal with emergencies of this scale in the municipality, pointing out that proper training can prove the difference between life and death in such moments. Council representatives
have expressed their congratulations to Marcos and Antonio, valuing an exemplary action that averted a fatal result and enabled the visitor’s life to be saved after what could easily have become a tragic incident for the holidaymaker and his family.
Picture perfect Periana THE picture perfect town of Periana keeps age-old traditions alive at its annual Feria. Culture and joy will fill the streets as they welcome their fair from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, August 23, celebrating heritage as much as a good party. Traditional street parades, foam parties, children’s activities and free tastings of zoque, all take place over the weekend. Paseo Bellavista hosts the horseback ribbon race rooted deep in village fair history. Music old and new shares the stage. Orquesta New Velada performs all three nights, while Saturday’s headline slot goes to Moncho Chavea, whose flamenco-rooted sound
Credit:PerianaTH/FB
Three days of tradition and celebration
Foam party fun.
carries tradition into a modern era. Sunday morning turns to folklore, with centuries-old
Andalucian style music and dance, ahead of the Fiesta de Mayores, when the village honours its elders and
crowns a Fair Grandfather and Grandmother, marking respect for those who came before them.
beaches
Competa, Viñuela and white villages answer dual demands ACCORDING to a recently published study, the Axarquia area is offering exactly what younger European travellers want. In Travellyze’s report, nature, white villages, mountain scenery, local food and quiet escapes away from crowds all feature strongly. Visitors who already know the area rate it highly, creating a clear chance to turn interest into more bookings. Brits and Dutch, it seems, favour small, characterful villages, chosen by around three-quarters of those surveyed. French and German travellers lean more towards mountains and open countryside. Young adults dominate the UK and Netherlands markets and often arrive with bigger budgets, opening doors for boutique cortijos and glamping. Older visitors from France and Germany prefer calm, authentic breaks that still deliver value. Places like Competa, Viñuela, and being close to the Caminito del Rey answer both sets of tastes and can easily combine with a beach day. Antonio Diaz of Turismo Costa del Sol said the province already matches what more Europeans seek. Better targeted messaging should now put these inland gems higher on holiday shortlists.
LOCAL NEWS
20 - 26 August 2026
Credit: MP FB
2
Motril port’s cruise visitors.
Record cruise numbers MOTRIL’s docks are heading for a record-breaking cruise season, with 23 ship calls bringing more than 47,000 passengers and a similar number of crew between June and September. Port managers say the numbers reflect the Granada harbour’s growing reputation as a favoured Mediterranean stop. While summer is traditionally a quieter period for cruise traffic, spring and autumn usually bring the largest crowds. This pattern helps spread financial benefits across
the year while preventing overcrowding. Local shops, restaurants, taxi drivers, tour companies and cultural attractions across Motril, the Costa Tropical and Granada province all gain extra business whenever vessels dock. Many day visitors return later for longer holidays. José García Fuentes, president of the Motril Port Authority, noted that cruise traffic is an increasingly valuable asset for both the port and the surrounding region. Norwe-
NERJA is hosting its second annual Feria Gastronómica Balcon de Europa, combining regional flavours with free live music at the town’s famous coastal viewpoint. Organised by the town hall, the event runs from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, August 23. Stalls open from 7pm until 1am each evening, offering visitors the chance to sample artisan cheeses, cured meats, jams and traditional homemade
gian Dawn is leading the summer schedule with 18 of the 23 planned visits, providing a weekly boost to the local economy. Cruises began in April and will continue until November. By the end of the year, Motril expects a total of 68 ship visits, 123,997 passengers and 53,660 crew members. These figures represent a new high for the port, demonstrating how cruise shipping supports sustained economic activity far beyond the standard summer peak.
New health centre Credit: CBO FB CONSTRUCTION of the new health clinic in Nerja is nearing completion, with regional authorities aiming for a phased opening before the end of 2026. The development ends more than two decades of delays for residents in the eastern Costa del Sol. Funded through European relief funds, the €9.4 million project sits between Avenida de PesNew health centre under construction in Nerja. cia and Cuesta del Ingenio. Healthcare managers will meet site directors early in September staff, and diagnostic equipment will to finalise operational schedules. move in stages during late 2026 to enCovering 4,520 square metres over sure healthcare continues without inthree storeys and a basement, the buil- terruption. ding offers more than double the floor Initial plans date back to 2003, but space of the existing clinic. Around bureaucratic delays held up progress 25,000 residents from Nerja and Frigi- until construction started in July 2024. liana will rely on the site, which is also Future ownership of the old clinic rebuilt to accommodate seasonal tourist mains undecided, though the local crowds. council hopes to convert it for council The facility features 26 standard use. consultation rooms, five multipurpose Work on local infrastructure is also suites, and five dedicated paediatric moving forward. Authorities are prospaces. Specialist units cover minor cessing plans for an underground car surgery, dentistry, physiotherapy, ra- park with 847 spaces and a new condiology, and critical care. Services, necting road.
Food fair delight treats. Products feature from across the local Axarquia hills, wider Andalucia and other parts of Spain. Entertainment begins at 10.30pm each night, featuring three different musical acts across the weekend. Entry to all performances is entirely free, creating an
euroweeklynews.com
open-air concert venue overlooking the Mediterranean. Tourism Councillor Ana María Muñoz explained that the fair aims to establish itself as a regular summer fixture, providing a venue for people to enjoy gastronomy and culture together. Town officials
are encouraging both local residents and holidaymakers to attend and sample the regional specialities. The gathering follows the success of last year’s food event on the promenade, which attracted strong support from producers and attendees. Further information regarding the weekend itinerary and local event schedules can be found on the official municipal tourism portal at visita. nerja.es.
NEWS
20 - 26 August 2026
Wilfire awareness SPAIN ISSUES ADVICE
3
Incoming number change Cold callers get labelled
Credit: Bomberos
Credit: Lazy_Bear / Shutterstock
euroweeklynews.com
From October, Spain’s sales calls will carry a number that cannot be rung back.
Wildfire near Valencia.
A SERIES of recent wildfires across Spain has rocked local communities and prompted concern among nearby residents and holidaymakers. While much of the country remains unaffected and open for the summer season, all are advised to stay vigilant, especially during peak fire season. Official advice from local governments emphasises vigilance. Anyone spotting smoke or flames should contact the 112 emergency line immediate-
ly with accurate location details. If a fire approaches, individuals should move towards clear ground with minimal vegetation, heading downhill and against the wind. Already-burned patches of land offer safe temporary refuge. Drivers encountering smoke should shut windows, turn on headlights, and turn back; vehicles should only be abandoned if flames force the decision. To protect accommodation, occupants must seal windows, doors, and
shutters, blocking gaps with damp towels. Gas supplies should be turned off, and baths filled with water. If an evacuation order is given by local authorities, residents must leave instantly via designated safe routes, carrying only essential items such as passports, medication, and phone chargers. Monitor daily fire-risk updates from Spain’s weather agency, AEMET, maintain a full fuel tank, and prepare a small bag with critical supplies.
SALES calls in Spain are about to start announcing themselves. From Saturday October 17, any company ringing to sell something must do it from a nine-digit number beginning 400, and operators have to block commercial calls made from any other number. The logic is simple. A number that starts with the same three digits every time can be recognised at a glance, and phone companies are allowed to offer customers the option of switching off the whole range in one go. There is a catch. Numbers in the 400 range only make calls, they cannot receive them, so a missed one cannot be rung back. The association representing Spain’s contact centre industry has taken the rule to the Audiencia Nacional over exactly that, warning that a customer could miss a call about a suspicious bank transaction or a hospital appointment and have no way of returning it. The court has admitted the case but has not suspended the measure. Not every caller is covered though. The obligation applies to essential service providers and firms with more than 250 employees or €50 million in turnover, so smaller operations and charities stay on ordinary numbers.
Credit: Me dia - Shutterstock
Changing habits DEPOSIT SCHEME BEGINS SPAIN launched a nationwide drinks container deposit scheme on Wednesday, August 12, adding a 10-cent refundable charge to single-use bottles and cans. Known as the SDDR, the initiative aims to boost recycling by encouraging consumers to return empty drinks packaging to authorised collection points to recover their deposit. However, assigning monetary value to everyday waste could alter public behaviour in urban areas, nightspots and coastal resorts. Similar schemes in Germany and Ireland demonstrate that small deposit values reduce litter while creating informal collection economies. In Germany, citizens routinely gather discarded containers from public spaces or leave them beside public bins for others to collect. Meanwhile, Ireland recorded a near-50
per cent reduction in drinks container litter within its first year, supported by schools and community organisations collecting empties for fundraising. Local councils may also witness reduced volumes of recyclable material in municipal rubbish bins as individuals and groups collect containers before council refuse lorries arrive. For automated return machines to issue refunds, returned packaging must remain undamaged with legible barcodes, meaning heavily crushed cans will lose their value. Ultimately, the system transforms abandoned packaging from environmental waste into accessible currency, altering how residents and tourists manage everyday rubbish across Spanish towns and beaches.
Things that the everyday folks leave behind.
euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
20 - 26 August 2026
Dep. Legal MA-422-200 - ISSN 2953-42536
+34 951 38 61 61
euroweeklynews.com
sales@euroweeklynews.com info@euroweeklynews.com editorial@euroweeklynews.com distribution@euroweeklynews.com
Printed at Recoprint: Polígono Industrial La Palmera, Parcela 3, Av. de la Palmera, 41, 41703 Dos Hermanas, Sevilla The EWN does not accept responsibility for the following: Claims actions and promises made by advertisers; Errors in advertisements reproduced frotm poor quality artwork or inadequate instructions for text layout or for any loss or damage caused by any error; Inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement; More than ONE INCORRECT insertion. No republication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement, errors and omissions excepted. EWN Media Group no part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved / Todos los Derechos reservados.
Affiliated to
LOCAL NEWS
euroweeklynews.com
Lucky number SPAIN’s second World Cup triumph on Sunday, July 19, has turned a traditional lottery selection into national gold dust. Club Waterpolo Motril has purchased the number 19726 every year for the El Gordo Christmas draw, and the side now faces endless requests from across the country. Gerardo Romano, the club president, confirmed the number became highly desirable after Spain defeated Argentina in the final. Members have collected every 10th-share ticket allocated to them at Administración número 1 in Motril. Mr Romano warned that remaining stocks may vanish due to demand before September. In the Granada coastal town of 60,000 residents, remaining tic-
Credit: ac2ality Inst
Luck World Cup date lottery ticket
kets are selling rapidly. María Jesús Egea of Loterías Fajardo stated that staff were stunned by the rush, with only reserved tickets and a handful held by regular players available when sales erupted. Locals believe 2026
brings extra good fortune, noting that Motril actress Tusti de las Heras features in this year’s official lottery television advert. The club management feels conditions are ideal for a major win. While the specific
combination remains available for ordinary weekly draws throughout the rest of the year, Christmas lottery buyers seeking a piece of sporting history must act quickly to secure any remaining tickets held by the water polo club.
72-year-old lifeguard GUILLERMO LACHICA PANDO is 72 years old, but his daily routine puts many younger people to shame. Spain’s oldest lifeguard starts his morning with a 10-kilometre cycle to work on the Costa del Sol in Torrox Costa, followed by a one to two-kilometre swim in the Mediterranean before beginning a nine-hour shift from 11.30am to 8.30pm. Born in Buenos Aires, Guillermo qualified with the Red Cross in 1977 after rigorous training in the South Atlantic. Although trained as an agricultural engineer, his passion always lay with the sea. He later became a yacht captain, tackled Mount Aconcagua, and competed in triathlons. Family roots in Malaga and Granada eventually drew him to southern Spain. His nine-hour shifts on the sand require constant vigilance, walking, and occasional rescues when
Credit: provita.es
4
Guillermo Lachica Pando, Torrox’s longest serving lifeguard.
swimmers encounter trouble. To maintain his position, Guillermo regularly updates his maritime safety certificates and rescue qualifications. Age has not halted his athletic pursuits; he remains a registered triathlete, competing in ocean swims and running events. He
attributes his longevity to daily exercise, adequate rest, and avoiding junk food. Having rejected office life decades ago, Guillermo has no immediate plans for retirement, choosing instead to remain on duty in what he considers Europe’s finest climate.
LOCAL NEWS/FEATURE
euroweeklynews.com
Village fair takes over MOCLINEJO is preparing for its main summer celebration, the Feria in honour of San Bartolome, running from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, August 23, under the slogan “a fair for everyone.” Kids’ Day opens proceedings on Thursday, August 20, offering discounted fairground rides for families. Friday starts at 2.30pm with a lunch for older residents and the crowning of the senior king and queen at Bar Restaurante Reyes. Afternoon entertainment in Plaza España includes copla singer Macarena Soto, children’s entertainment, Zumba, and dance performances. Orquesta Serva La Bari takes the stage at 10.30pm, followed by the election of the 2026 fair royalty at 12.15am and late-night musical acts. Saturday focuses on
Credit Moclinejo YT
daytime festivities, opening at 2pm with an hour of free beer and tapas. Live music, salsa, and a foam party fill the afternoon, leading into a motorbike ribbon race at the village entrance at 8pm. Sunday marks Flamenco Day in Plaza España, featuring traditional dress competitions,
a performance by Panda de Verdiales de Moclinejo at 1.30pm, and charity paella for €1 at 3pm. The solemn procession of San Bartolome leaves at 9pm, accompanied by a marching band. A final mass on Monday, August 24 at 8pm in the local church brings the annual village fair to a close.
Neighbours livid Credit: AVEOtorre
What is Home Insurance and why do I need it?
Your home is one of your most valuable possessions so it makes sense to protect it against the risk of theft, damage and natural disasters. Home insurance can cover both buildings and contents. All home insurance policies are different. So please check the fine print to make sure you understand what’s covered, what your rights are and also your responsibilities should you need to make a claim. Línea Directa knows how important your home is, which is why it has created its new home insurance. NOW WITH THE NEW HOME INSURANCE, YOU PUT YOUR HOME INTO EASY MODE • Easy to understand what’s covered and what’s not. • Easy and fast in the service. • Easy to resolve any loss. What are the main advantages of Línea Directa Home Insurance? Because your peace of mind starts with having your home protected, here are some of the advantages we offer at Línea Directa.
Neighbours unite and protest.
FRUSTRATED and fed up residents of Torre del Mar’s Ensanche Oeste development, also known as Sup T-12, are continuing their long-running battle with Velez-Malaga Town Hall over neglected services and blocked walkways. The local association AVEOtorre says the estate’s 1,300 homes still lack proper maintenance and safe pedestrian access to the beach and nearby shops. Construction work tore up a primary asphalt route in late 2024, leaving behind a rough dirt track shared by pedestrians and vehicles. Elderly residents and wheelchair users face severe travel difficulties, with AVEOtorre president Christian Vega describing the daily route as an assault course. Promises from local authorities to finish a safe pavement have so far yielded no results.
Other than access issues, residents report overflowing rubbish bins, missed street cleaning schedules, and withered green spaces. Despite submitting over 50 formal complaints in the past year, locals feel ignored, even though they pay full council taxes. Protests took place in February, June, July, and August along the promenade. Spanish locals and British expatriates joined forces to demand that council officials take responsibility for maintenance and complete key road works. Velez-Malaga councillors claim they are slowly bringing services in-house, but residents are demanding written commitments and immediate action before further housing developments add to the strain.
5
ADVERTISING FEATURE
HOME INSURANCE is a way to protect your home and belongings against fire, water damage, burglary or electrical damage, among others. In addition, you can have peace of mind with civil liability coverage for possible damage caused to third parties, protection against squatting or home assistance.
Street dancing in Moclinejo.
20 - 26 August 2026
COMPREHENSIVE PROTECTION Covers both damage to the structure of the building (Building) and your belongings (Contents). • Water or electrical damage From a burst pipe to a power surge that damages your appliances, it would be covered. • Home assistance, such as the handyman service and maintenance We resolve your emergencies and minor household repairs. • Digital coverage in case of digital fraud and identity theft You can have 360-degree identity protection and comprehensive technology assistance. • Clean energy insured Your solar panels and electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid chargers are also protected. • Protection against squatting We support you throughout the process, with financial compensation and legal assistance. With Línea Directa you can adapt your Home Insurance whenever you need to, easily from the Customer Area or, if you prefer, by phone: increase or reduce sums insured, add optional coverages or update your personal details. If you renovate, move home or add new features such as solar panels or electric chargers for your electric or plug-in hybrid car, you can update the insurance to keep your home protected.
. BEST PRICE . R E V O C R E T BET
Call their English-speaking customer service staff on 952 147 834 or get a competitive quote online at lineadirecta.com
6
20 - 26 August 2026
LOCAL NEWS
euroweeklynews.com
Water rates frozen Credit: AVM FB VELEZ-MALAGA Town Hall has closed its 2025 accounts with a budget surplus of over €9.14 million. The positive financial balance gives the local authority room to take on new commitments without raising costs for local residents. In its first major move, the council will fully absorb a 40 per cent increase in wholesale water charges imposed by regional supplier Axaragua. Household bills Velez-Malaga town hall. across the municipality will therefore remain unchanged. use part of the funds to pay down bank The wholesale price rise follows more loans. Reducing outstanding debt oblithan a decade without tariff reviews gations will lower interest payments and includes inflation adjustments da- over time and free up future capacity ting back to 2015. A temporary drought for new local investment projects. surcharge linked to importing water Local leaders stated that the closed from Malaga during recent dry spells accounts demonstrate prudent money has also been added to the supplier’s management. This approach allows rate. Council resources from the sur- daily public services to be met while plus will cover the entire outlay, protec- addressing key long-term liabilities. ting families, self-employed workers, Further details on exact allocations for and businesses from rising expenses. the water subsidy and debt repayments In addition, the town hall plans to will be finalised in the coming weeks.
Credit: Clarence
Richard Ray Farrell
Night of the blues BLUES fans are heading to Cajiz in the Axarquia region for the fourth annual Noche de Blues on Saturday, August 22. The free open-air event takes place in the local school courtyard, with live music starting at 9pm and continuing late into the night. New York-born guitarist, singer, and harmonica player Richard Ray Farrell, a local resident who helped found the festival, headlines the bill. The line-up features supporting performances from Javier Martín, Sergio Díaz, and Dutch vocalist Manuela Nelom. Spanish group Trío del Saco, comprising David Quintero, Ángel Quintero, Daniel Cuenca, and Raúl Ranea, will also perform.
Organised by the Junta de Festejos de Cajiz and local authorities, the community concert carries a charitable focus. While admission is free, organisers encourage voluntary donations of €5 to €10 to support the festival committee. Attendees can purchase food and drink on site and take part in several charity raffles held throughout the evening. Previous years attracted audiences from across Velez-Malaga and the wider Axarquia area. Farrell praised the organisers for their detailed preparation, expressing hope that this year’s gathering will build upon the success of past events as a regular summer tradition for the village.
Marine eclipse magic WEDNESDAY, August 12, saw marine life put on a remarkable show off the coast of Motril during Spain’s solar eclipse. A pod of common and striped dolphins launched themselves clear of the waves five nautical miles out
to sea, precisely as the moon began covering the sun. Footage captured by researchers from the University of Granada recorded the pod leaping mid-performance during the peak of the eclipse over Granada’s
Costa Tropical. Scientists had anticipated such a reaction, as sudden darkness typically prompts zooplankton to rise, drawing fish and predatory marine life closer to the surface. Similar pod sightings were reported near Malaga’s Sacaba beach. The event coincided with Spain’s first total solar eclipse in over a century. Granada province experienced a deep partial eclipse, with roughly 95 per cent of the sun covered low on the western horizon. Calm waters and clear conditions allowed the research boat to remain in position and capture the display. This stretch of coast regularly attracts boat trips to view resident pods throughout the year. Full footage and images from the encounter have been published by local news outlets, while official timing data and maps are available through NASA and Spain’s Instituto Geográfico Nacional.
SPANISH NEWS
20 - 26 August 2026
Illegal amputations A SICK dog arriving at a veterinary hospital has led investigators to an alleged Spanish network selling dogs after illegal cosmetic ear and tail amputations, with buyers reportedly able to choose how the animals should look. The Guardia Civil operation, named Goscan, has resulted in 14 arrests and another six people being investigated for alleged animal offences, unlawful professional activity and falsification of documents. The investigation began when veterinarians in Caceres examined an Italian mastiff and discovered that its ears and tail had recently been amputated. Its owner produced a certificate claiming the procedures had been legally performed in Russia. Investigators later established that the document was allegedly false. The trail led to a breeder in Alicante and a much larger alleged operation. According to investigators, customers could agree
euroweeklynews.com
Citronella alert
Photo credit: Guadia Civil. es
Photo credit: Tetyana_Pidkaluyk/Shutterstock
8
Citronella can still be used as part of general mosquito control.
The trail led to a breeder in Alicante.
on the type of ear and tail cuts they wanted for aesthetic reasons. Breeders allegedly supplied videos explaining how to care for the wounds and provided falsified documents to make the procedures appear legal. A veterinarian is also accused of supplying blank passports and documents bearing a signature and
stamp, while investigators say the breeder implanted microchips without the required qualification. The network operated in several parts of Spain and exported dogs to Mexico. A total of 20 people have been placed at the disposal of judicial authorities. The case is now before the courts in Novelda, Alicante.
A FAMILIAR summer defence against mosquitoes may be giving people a false sense of security, with Andalucia’s health authorities warning residents that citronella does not provide reliable protection against mosquito bites. The warning comes as West Nile virus continues to circulate in Andalucia, with six human cases confirmed by July 28. All were described as mild. Virus circulation has also been detected in mosquitoes across 15 municipalities classified as areas on alert, while mosquito numbers are increasing in several locations. Health centres are displaying advice recommending registered topical repellents rather than relying on citronella candles, plants or scented products. The Junta also advises covering exposed skin with light-coloured clothing, reducing standing water around ho-
mes and taking extra care around dawn and dusk, when mosquito activity can be higher. Citronella can still be used as part of general mosquito control, but the authorities stress that its smell should not be confused with protection equivalent to an authorised skin repellent. More than 200 mosquito traps are being used across Andalucia as health teams monitor virus circulation. Most people infected with West Nile virus develop no symptoms, but some become ill and a small proportion can suffer serious neurological complications. For people living in or visiting areas with high mosquito activity, the warning is straightforward: don’t assume a citronella candle is protecting exposed skin. Use a registered repellent and take additional steps to reduce bites.
euroweeklynews.com
SPANISH NEWS
Trapped by Google Maps
9
Earthquake strikes Credit: @luzarcsan
A SPANISH village has put up a sign accusing Google Maps of getting its own streets wrong, after cars and lorries kept getting stuck trying to follow the app into its historic centre. Santa Pau, in Girona province, has repeatedly asked Google to fix the route, which sends drivers along an alley that narrows so much some can’t even open their car doors. “The drivers would throw themselves into a well if Google Maps told them to,” said Mayor Cris Capó. The village is not alone though. In Etulain, Navarra, lorries have been diverted off a main road so often that a crane once had to free a stuck fruit lorry, closing the street for 24 hours. Correcting the routes is possible through a free Google scheme for councils, but small town halls
Credit: Laborant / Shutterstock
20 - 26 August 2026
Granada shaken by several large quakes.
A car squeezes through a narrow Spanish village street, the kind Google Maps keeps routing drivers into.
say they lack the technical staff to use it. Girona city did manage it once after Google kept sending tourists through its pedestrianised old
quarter, while Cataluña’s traffic authority has also become a Google partner this year to fix dangerous reroutes reported by councils.
GRANADA PROVINCE residents felt walls and ceilings shake for several seconds on Tuesday, August 18, when a powerful earthquake struck the city’s metropolitan area. Spain’s National Geographic Institute recorded the tremor at 10.37am local time with a provisional magnitude of 4.8 and an epicentre in Gojar. It is the strongest event since a seismic sequence began on Friday, August 14. Quick aftershocks followed, including a magnitude 4 tremor at 10.53am and a magnitude 4.2 at 11.34am. Emergency services received around 50 calls following the main shock. Building facades cracked, awnings collapsed, and vehicles suffered damage across the region. Regional emergencies minister Antonio Sanz confirmed
three people suffered light injuries, including a young girl who went to hospital. The emergency plan for seismic risk remains activated at operational level 1. Staff at the Alhambra emptied and closed the Nasrid Palaces and the Alcazaba as a precaution while specialists examine the historic structures. Visits to the Partal and Generalife gardens continue. Provincial authorities also closed administrative buildings, museums, and sports facilities for inspections. Officials urged maximum caution, advising residents to stay clear of balconies and damaged walls. Experts warned that further aftershocks remain possible in the coming days across the Granada region.
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
10 20 - 26 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
The perks of growing old Ibiza beaches half empty Credit: Martin SC Photo / Shutterstock
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT GROWING old can often get a bad press, but at 87 I have discovered that it also comes with several advantages, apart from waking up every morning and finding that you are still here! First, there is the bus pass. You can travel all over the place for nothing, although by the time you qualify, you may have forgotten where you intended to go! There are free prescriptions too, which is just as well because the older you become, the more medicines people seem determined to give you. Then there is National Insurance. After paying it for most of your working life, you eventually reach an age when they stop taking it from your wages. It is almost worth getting old just to see something disappear from your payslip rather than another mysterious deduction being added. Airports are easier as well. Special assistance is a wonderful thing. So-
mebody collects you in a wheelchair, whisks you through the airport and often takes you straight to the front of the queue. I don’t really look old enough to need a walking stick yet, but I have a feeling that, eventually, one will be extremely useful, not only for walking, but for pointing at things, retrieving objects from under the bed and prodding anybody who gets in my way. There is less to worry about too. When you are young, you worry about what may happen over the next 50 years. At my age, I don’t have 50 years ahead of me, so that cuts the worrying down considerably. Life also becomes safer. Nobody looks at an 87-year-old man in a pub and thinks, ‘I’ll pick a fight with him.’ If they do, I can always pretend I haven’t heard them. I no longer need Grecian 2000. There is no point pretending the grey isn’t there when the eyebrows, ears and every other part of you have joined in. Nor do I have to keep up with fashion. I have spent years wearing tight trousers, elaborate shirts and shoes that looked marvellous but felt like instruments of torture. Now I choose
comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes. If anybody thinks I am unfashionable, they are welcome to suffer on my behalf. I have slowed down on the road too. I no longer get stopped by the police and even regularly waved on at checkpoints, perhaps because they assume I am doing my best. As for being over the limit, those days are behind me. I would rather enjoy a drink, leave the car where it is and let somebody else worry about the journey home. Best of all, age teaches you who your real friends are. The fair-weather ones gradually disappear, leaving the people who genuinely care about you and still laugh at your stories, even when they have heard them several times before. So, getting older isn’t entirely bad. You receive free travel, free prescriptions, comfortable shoes and permission to ignore fashion. And if you forget what you were complaining about, that is another advantage altogether. Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
Ibiza’s beaches have been unusually quiet in peak season.
IBIZA’S beaches were strikingly empty in the second week of August, and the island’s own figures help explain why. A video filmed on Friday, August 7, along Playa d’en Bossa showed clear sand, half-speed beach clubs and sarong sellers outnumbering customers. “It is the first summer it has looked this empty,” the woman filming said. What was on the sand was not sunbathers. She panned across cool boxes, bags and people eating from plastic containers. “The tourist comes, and they are not in a hotel any more, they are staying directly on the beach,” she said. “This is the new tourist of Ibiza.” Ibiza and Formentera received 560,121 tourists in June, 28,000 fewer than a year earlier. Spending curiously went the other way, rising almost 6 per cent to more than €690 million, with spend per person up 11.21 per cent to €1,232.01, the highest in the Balearics. Island tourism director Juan Miguel Costa said higher hotel and flight prices may account for much of that, describing it as “a very flat season.” Restaurant owners also report visitors buying supermarket food rather than eating out.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Franklins Removals Ltd – Your trusted UK and Spain removal specialists MOVING between the UK and Spain is a major life change, whether you are beginning a new chapter in the Spanish sunshine or returning home to the UK. At Franklins Removals Ltd, we are a family-run removals company specialising in moves in both directions between the UK and Spain. We understand that an international move can feel overwhelming. That is why our friendly and experienced team is available to guide you through every stage, from your initial quotation and volume assessment through to customs documentation, collection and final delivery. We operate regular scheduled services throu-
ghout the UK and Spain, offering both shared-load and dedicated removal options. Whether you are moving a few boxes, the contents of an apartment, a holiday home or an entire family household, we can provide a service tailored to your requirements and budget. Our modern, purpose-built removals vehicles are fully
equipped with professional protective materials, including furniture blankets, specialist wrapping and load-securing equipment. Your belongings are handled
by our own experienced removals crews, with care taken during collection, transit and delivery. We can also provide professional packing services, dismantling and reassembly where agreed, and secure short- or long-term storage at our UK facility. For customers moving between Spain and the UK following Brexit, we assist with the customs process and explain the documents required, helping make the move as straightforward as possible. As a proud member of the British Association of Removers, we operate to recognised industry standards. Qualifying bookings are also protected by the BAR Advanced Payment
Guarantee, offering additional reassurance when choosing your removals company. Over the years, we have helped families, retirees, professionals and returning UK residents move safely between the two countries. Our reputation has been built on honest advice, transparent quotations, dependable communication and a genuinely personal service. Whether you are relocating to the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Murcia, Valencia, Alicante, Barcelona or elsewhere in Spain - or moving back to anywhere in the UK - our family is ready to help yours. Contact Franklins Removals Ltd today for a free, no-obligation quotation.
Franklins Removals Ltd Family-run • BAR Member • UK–Spain Specialists Regular removals in both directions • Packing • Storage • Customs Assistance Email: sales@franklinsremovals.co.uk • Telephone: 0044 121 353 7263 • www.franklinsremovals.co.uk
EUROPRESS
Photo credit: Bartłomiej Kubkowski on Instagram
euroweeklynews.com
20 - 26 August 2026
11
Giant lobsters invade Pompeii
55 hours swimming Doctors examined him after reaching land.
WHAT happens to your body after almost 55 hours of swimming without sleep? Scientists could now get a rare answer after Polish athlete Bartłomiej Kubkowski agreed to have his blood frozen for research. Kubkowski has become the first person to swim from Sweden to Poland across the Baltic Sea, completing a journey of more than 160 kilometres after four previous attempts failed. He set off from Kåseberga in southern Sweden and reached Dziwnów on Poland’s Baltic coast after around 55 hours and 10 minutes. A support boat accompanied him, but he was not allowed to touch it. Food and drinks were provided from the boat, meaning he had to remain in the water throughout the crossing. He also went without sleep. The final kilome-
tres were particularly difficult. Kubkowski said that around 11 kilometres from the finish he began losing consciousness and became unsure where he was, the changing weather also added another challenge, After reaching land, doctors examined him and asked whether they could preserve samples of his blood for scientific research. According to reports, his results resembled those of someone who had just completed a marathon. The samples could allow scientists to examine the effects of extreme endurance, sleep deprivation and prolonged exposure to open water. His challenge also raised more than one million Polish złoty for Cancer Fighters, supporting children with cancer.
HOLIDAYMAKERS visiting Italy’s most famous archaeological site this summer are encountering a very surreal modern takeover among the ancient ruins. Scottish pop artist Philip Colbert has brought 30 colossal, bright red lobster sculptures into the heart of Pompeii. Towering over historic walkways, temples, and residential quarters, these pop-art creations stand disguised as stone pillars, sport bright pink turtlenecks, or take the form of futuristic robotic warriors crafted from black steel. Inspiration for the quirky exhibition comes directly from Pompeii’s historical archives. Excavations inside the House of the Faun previously uncovered an ancient Roman floor mosaic depicting a dramatic underwater battle between an octopus, a moray eel, and a sea crustacean. Colbert designed his contemporary figures to establish a creative dialogue with Roman artists who lived before Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Park authorities granted rare
permission for the colourful sculptures to sit inside delicate domestic spaces, including the historic Casa di Cerere. Sightseers exploring living rooms can view a giant lobster holding a miniature Roman temple. Exhibition managers
have extended the trail to nearby archaeological sites, including the Villa of Poppaea and Boscoreale. Cultural custodians hope the lighthearted display adds fresh energy to historical storytelling across the Campania region.
EUROPRESS/FEATURE
12 20 - 26 August 2026
Mayor refuses rescue A DEBATE over 32 climbers stranded on Mont Blanc in the French Alps has reignited a fierce argument across Europe: should taxpayers cover the cost when people knowingly put themselves in danger? The row began when 32 mountaineers gathered at the Goûter Refuge, 3,835 metres up the French side of Mont Blanc. Falling rocks had rendered the Grand Couloir section perilous, leading guides and high-mountain officials to advise against the ascent. Jean-Marc Peillex, mayor of Saint-Gervais, subsequently ordered the local refuges to close on Tuesday, August 11. However, the climbers had already reached the shelter before the closure took effect. The following morning, the group requested a free public helicopter evacuation to avoid descending through the hazardous rockfall zone. Public rescue services refused, deeming
r VOICE u o Y x
Credit: Alberto_Rodriguez / Shutterstock
Credit: LHO Photography - Shutterstock
Helicopter rescue over Mont Blanc.
conditions calm enough for a foot descent. Some mountaineers walked down, whilst others paid €95 each for a private helicopter transfer. Mayor Peillex said “no” and condemned the group, arguing that public resources belong to genuine emergencies. Conversely, Charles Van der Elst, president of the French Alpine Club, noted that the group reached the refuge before the official closure.
An official report estimated French mountain rescue costs at €107 million in 2024, averaging nearly €10,800 per intervention. Helicopter costs jumped 141 per cent between 2012 and 2024. Whilst France traditionally guarantees free rescues to prevent delayed emergency calls, this incident raises a lasting question: where does personal freedom end and public responsibility begin?
Child pensions GERMAN children could soon start building their retirement savings before they have even finished primary school, under a proposal that would give them €10 a month from the age of six. The planned Frühstart-Ren-
euroweeklynews.com
te would see the government pay €10 each month into a private pension account from a child’s sixth birthday until they turn 18. If paid for the full 12 years, the contributions would total €1,440 before investment growth.
Families would not receive the money directly. It would remain invested in the child’s pension account and could not be withdrawn at 18 for university, a car or a home. The child could continue contributing during their working life, with the money eventually available for retirement. The first children expected to benefit are those born in 2020, who turn six during 2026. However, the scheme still requires legislation, so parents should not expect payments to appear immediately. Germany says the idea is designed to give young people an early start in private pension saving and financial literacy. There is currently no equivalent Spanish government proposal. But with Spain also facing increasing pressure on its pension system, the German plan raises a striking question: should retirement saving begin when children are six rather than when they enter the workforce?
Responses call for consistency and fairness.
Should hotels face the same water restrictions as residents? A RECENT poll asking whether hotels should face the same water restrictions as residents has prompted a range of responses. Most comments supported equal restrictions, particularly where local people are being asked to make significant sacrifices. For Penny Lee, the answer is yes, although she believes hotels should be given some flexibility to meet essential standards. “Yes! Ok, they need a different allowance for the amount of water needed to meet hygiene and food standards, but within those and reasonable use for the amount of guests and any water reuse systems that can be introduced to the whole system to counter balance the amount of fresh water use, why not!” Her suggestion highlights the possibility of allowing essential hotel operations to continue while still limiting unnecessary consumption. Jennifer Raudebaugh took a much firmer view, arguing that hotels should face the same restrictions as residents. “No swimming in pools or flushing toilets for residents? Then, absolutely… No swimming in pools or flushing toilets for users of hotels. Why would residents go without while watching vacationers
use the water? That’s crazy. Basically, you are saying that companies and vacationers are more important than those who live here.” The question of fairness also extended beyond hotels. Mike W-j asked, “Should golf courses be allowed to continue watering their greens?” He added, “It seems just the common peasants have to suffer drought.” The comments suggest that some people see the debate as part of a wider question about how water restrictions are applied, and whether commercial and recreational users are being treated differently from households. Other respondents were more direct. Many, including Peter MacGregor and Glenda Hull simply said, “Yes. Overall, the responses show a clear concern about fairness and equal treatment during water shortages. Most people said hotels should face the same restrictions as residents, although some recognised that essential hygiene and food standards may require a different allowance. The wider comments also suggest that people want restrictions to apply consistently across other major water users, not just households.
FINANCE Nintendo win
THE Japanese gaming giant Nintendo has recorded a profit surge of 53.5 per cent in the second quarter. Strong demand for the Nintendo Switch 2, and the box office success of the Super Mario 2 film helped the company post a €810 million revenue, up from €530 million.
Gold soars
IN late January, gold hit a record high of €4,855.91 per ounce. Gold prices remained high throughout the first quarter, before eventually dropping 28 per cent. However, the start of August again saw gold increase in price, up 8 per cent to €3,789,82 per ounce.
Bankruptcy down
BANKRUPTCY filings in Spain fell for the second consecutive quarter, dropping 11.8 per cent to 14,608 cases, according to the College of Registrars. Individuals accounted for 90 per cent, however, company insolvencies rose 11.6 per cent, highlighting continued pressure on businesses despite falling bankruptcies.
Climate claims
PROPERTY damages caused by extreme weather events have skyrocketed insurance claims. In summer 2025, 8,800 cases were recorded, double 2024’s 4,274 during the same period. 29 per cent of damages were caused by rain, 24 per cent by wind. As climate change worsens, weather-related claims are expected to rise.
EasyJet sold
BUDGET airline EasyJet has agreed to a £5.7 billion deal from private equity firm Apollo. Castlelake was the first to propose a take-over offer, but ultimately backed down from the bidding war when Apollo presented a deal it could not match. Apollo will pay shareholders £7.15 per share.
euroweeklynews.com • 20 - 26 August 2026
STAT OF WEEK
1.7 %
The number of new businesses created in Spain increased by 1.7 per cent in June compared to the same month in 2025, according to INE.
Fast food evolution FAST-FOOD chains have been a cornerstone of the restaurant business for decades. A cheap and convenient indulgence that has racked up a European market value of €198.5 billion in 2025, and is estimated to be worth €289.9 billion by 2034. In Europe, the UK has consistently accounted for the largest share of the fast food market, increasing to 26.2 per cent in 2025. Chains like McDonalds, Burger King and KFC have been high-street staples for years, but the UK is now seeing an influx of new US chains like Wendy’s and Wingstop, potentially creating increased competition. Comparatively, Spain takes up a much smaller share of the market. Fast food makes up only 5 per cent of its restaurant sales, although this is growing, driven largely by tourism. Fast-food chains have always benefited from the need for convenience. Long work hours and
Fast-food market grows in Europe.
an endless to do list make ordering a Big Mac meal the easier option over preparing a quality meal at home. This convenience model has been further improved by food delivery apps. According to Statista, digital food delivery sales in Europe reached €45 billion in 2025. Chains themselves have implemented several measures
Heatwave losses THE summer of 2026 is on track to be the warmest on record in the UK. Consistently warm days and repeated heatwaves have taken their toll on daily life. Economic data shows the warm weather has also affected the UK economy, generating losses in the billions. Research by think tank Verdant indicates high temperatures have cost £4.4 billion, with £2.3 billion lost in June alone.
Property investment Credit: Tada Images / Shutterstock
BUSINESS EXTRA
13
Less worker productivity, equipment overheating, and forced closures due to temperatures all impact the bottom line. Estimates by Allianz Insurance suggest for every degree over 30C, workers output an hour declines by 3 per cent. This is unlikely to be the last record-breaking summer. As such, Verdant has called for much needed improvements to urban design to combat the heat.
to improve custom. There has been a notable shift towards “healthier” options following the long-held belief that to eat fast food meant to eat greasy junk food. This is especially true in the European market, with fastfood products adapting their menu to appeal to foreign consumers with different dietary preferences. Credit: Jamie McBean / Shutterstock
Heatwave affects UK economy.
Unions across the UK have also called for change, lobbying the government to adapt the maximum temperatures employees are expected to work in. The effects are being felt nationwide.
Fashion battle
Pension delays
EU grants
CURRENTLY operating 67 stores across Spain, Primark has been a staple of affordable fashion for 20 years. That is until Shein and Temu arrived on the market with their ultra-low prices. In July, however, Primark regained the fast-fashion crown. As of July 1, Shein and Temu sales were affected by the €3 surcharge applied to non-EU shipments. Taking advantage, Primark announced discounts on hundreds of items. Throughout July, textile sales remained stable, increasing by 0.3 per cent.
RULES around retirement are constantly changing. The biggest shift came 15 years ago with the 2011 pension reform which gradually increases the legal retirement age from 65 to 67 by 2027, and extends the contribution period. New research by Fedea, the Foundation for Applied Economic Studies, has analysed how big of an effect this has had on working Spaniards. Their report shows workers are retiring, on average, eight months later. Women’s retirement is postponed by 10 months as they often take time away from work for childcare.
BRUSSELS has approved Spain’s sixth and penultimate payment from the EU’s recovery fund, worth more than €6.23 billion. The package includes nearly €5 billion in grants and €1 billion in loans, bringing Spain’s total funding received to €61 billion in grants and €17 billion in loans. The payment also releases €265 million previously withheld over unmet commitments. However, three milestones remain outstanding, involving bilingual vocational training, telecare services and support for vulnerable groups and small businesses. Spain now has until September to request its final payment, potentially worth around €18 billion in grants and more than €5 billion in loans.
SPAIN’S property investment market is on track for a strong 2026, with €10.5 billion invested during the first half of the year. Cushman & Wakefield expects total investment to reach between €17 billion and €20 billion, well above the €15.4 billion recorded in 2025. Growth is broad, with hospitality and residential leading activity, while offices, logistics and retail are also recovering. Strong interest from both domestic and international investors is supporting the market’s momentum.
Heineken growth HEINEKEN is experiencing a strong 2026 with sales skyrocketing. The Dutchbrewer recorded €17.56 billion in global revenue in the first half of the year, 3.8 per cent higher than during the same period in 2025. Cruzcampo has been a big proponent of its success, with UK sales of the Spanish beer increasing 30 per cent year-on-year. Despite high gains, the company is still pursuing cost saving measures after recently cutting 3,000 roles for planned restructuring.
Electric car supply CHINESE electric vehicle sales in Europe reached a record high in the first five months of 2026, with Chinese brands accounting for 14.2 per cent of battery electric vehicle sales, up from 9.4 per cent. Some 171,800 vehicles were sold, driven by strong demand, competitive prices and lower tariffs. The rise has increased pressure on European manufacturers, while the EU considers further measures to protect its car industry from subsidised Chinese imports.
FINANCE
14 20 - 26 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 17 August
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Closing Prices 17 August
Net
3I Group.....................................2.796,50............2.810,00......... 2.783,00......... 227,61K Admiral Group.............................3.894,0..............3.950,0........... 3.894,0........... 73,37K Airtel Africa................................. 325,80...............332,20............325,60.......... 150,54K Anglo American...........................3.914,0..............3.952,0........... 3.907,0.......... 267,74K Antofagasta................................3.631,00............3.705,73......... 3.628,00......... 143,78K Associated British Foods.............2.024,0..............2.057,0........... 2.024,0........... 53,06K AstraZeneca...............................11.556,0............11.690,0......... 11.546,0......... 475,38K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 536,20...............541,80............534,40.......... 260,53K Aviva........................................... 726,40...............735,89............725,40............1,12M B M European Value Retail.......... 230,00...............233,00............230,00.......... 485,46K BAE Systems..............................2.259,00............2.267,00......... 2.239,00......... 558,06K Barclays...................................... 517,10...............523,60............516,10............3,02M Barratt Redrow............................ 323,00...............326,00............322,15............1,08M Beazley.......................................1.293,00............1.293,50......... 1.292,00.......... 97,85K Berkeley......................................3.578,0..............3.604,0........... 3.518,0............. 4,3K BP............................................... 518,90...............524,20............516,70............4,16M British American Tobacco...........4.183,0..............4.218,7........... 4.173,0.......... 340,62K BT Group.................................... 198,27...............201,50............198,27............1,23M Bunzl...........................................2.744,0..............2.770,0........... 2.738,0........... 46,05K Centrica....................................... 156,45...............156,95............155,60.......... 979,55K Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.544,0..............4.596,0........... 4.538,0............ 86,9K Compass...................................... 31,87.................32,12..............31,65........... 115,08K ConvaTec Group......................... 229,80...............231,00............228,60.......... 469,44K Croda Intl....................................3.220,0..............3.271,0........... 3.220,0............ 59,5K DCC.............................................6.365,0..............6.370,0........... 6.365,0............ 5,07K Diageo.........................................1.739,1..............1.756,0........... 1.730,5.......... 550,08K Diploma.....................................7.361,75............7.415,00......... 7.305,00.......... 32,41K EasyJet........................................ 672,80...............674,40............671,00.......... 724,88K Entain.......................................... 569,20...............572,60............554,00.......... 431,14K Experian......................................2.876,0..............2.889,0........... 2.853,0.............276K F&C Invest.................................. 343,60...............346,40............343,40........... 341,6K Frasers........................................ 805,00...............824,00............799,50........... 11,27K Fresnillo.....................................2.923,00............2.952,03......... 2.908,00.......... 74,14K Glencore...................................... 555,60...............562,60............555,60............4,57M GSK plc......................................1.833,00............1.860,00......... 1.829,00......... 774,11K HALEON...................................... 351,40...............356,20............350,90............3,56M Halma..........................................3.698,0..............3.720,0........... 3.690,0........... 77,14K Hikma Pharma...........................1.637,00............1.652,00......... 1.635,00.......... 48,15K Hiscox........................................1.803,00............1.807,00......... 1.785,00.......... 70,94K Howden Joinery.......................... 808,00...............829,92............808,00........... 191,9K HSBC.........................................1.539,80............1.541,20......... 1.532,40...........2,71M IAG.............................................. 442,90...............446,46............442,60.......... 966,93K ICG PLC.....................................2.052,00............2.070,00......... 2.050,00.......... 49,21K IMI PLC......................................3.084,00............3.102,00......... 3.084,00........... 40,8K Imperial Brands..........................2.594,00............2.614,00......... 2.580,00......... 277,74K Informa....................................... 917,80...............927,00............917,80.......... 123,91K InterContinental........................... 160,1.................160,6..............158,8............ 16,95K Intertek........................................5.840,0..............5.845,0........... 5.840,0........... 53,14K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
J Sainsbury................................. 337,41...............343,40............337,40.......... 927,19K JD Sports Fashion........................ 90,54.................92,22..............90,25.............3,42M Kingfisher.................................... 324,30...............327,40............323,30.......... 252,69K Land Securities........................... 704,00...............715,00............704,00.......... 215,32K Legal & General.......................... 303,66...............305,60............303,20............3,23M Lloyds Banking........................... 115,10...............116,05............114,95...........10,01M London Stock Exchange..............8.546,0..............8.576,0........... 8.492,0........... 100,9K Londonmetric Property............... 192,30...............194,50............192,10............1,68M M&G........................................... 356,80...............358,00............355,50.......... 672,76K Marks & Spencer........................ 376,80...............383,60............376,74............1,06M Melrose Industries...................... 495,62...............496,20............490,20........... 235,4K Mondi.......................................... 874,00...............880,20............869,80........... 74,43K National Grid..............................1.187,00............1.201,00......... 1.186,00......... 550,79K NatWest Group........................... 707,30...............711,00............705,90............1,29M Next...........................................15.150,0............15.315,0......... 15.140,0.......... 10,81K Pearson......................................1.198,00............1.201,50......... 1.190,00.......... 83,94K Pershing Square........................3.963,07............4.000,00......... 3.952,00.......... 35,68K Persimmon.................................1.175,0..............1.192,5........... 1.174,5.......... 364,91K Prudential...................................1.048,50............1.048,50......... 1.032,50......... 662,38K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.030,0..............5.176,0........... 5.030,0.......... 113,23K Relx............................................2.509,00............2.521,00......... 2.494,44......... 295,21K Rentokil....................................... 351,40...............352,40............348,30.......... 796,65K Rightmove.................................. 513,40...............514,20............506,60.......... 354,37K Rio Tinto PLC..............................7.131,0..............7.166,0........... 7.122,0.......... 310,04K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.566,60............1.570,20......... 1.551,00...........1,84M Sage...........................................1.053,50............1.057,50......... 1.044,00......... 150,65K Schroders.................................... 583,0.................583,5..............582,5............ 14,11K Scottish Mortgage......................1.445,00............1.451,50......... 1.441,50......... 356,86K Segro.......................................... 955,60...............962,60............954,00.......... 271,04K Severn Trent...............................3.044,0..............3.108,0........... 3.044,0........... 42,95K Shell............................................3.312,5..............3.327,5........... 3.306,0.......... 488,54K Smith & Nephew........................1.090,50............1.096,50......... 1.088,00......... 230,03K Smiths Group.............................2.619,00............2.630,00......... 2.610,00.......... 52,33K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.930,0..............7.040,0........... 6.890,0............ 24,4K SSE............................................2.405,00............2.427,00......... 2.402,00......... 133,42K Standard Chartered....................2.232,00............2.244,00......... 2.227,00...........1,38M Standard Life............................... 923,50...............930,00............922,00.......... 198,57K Taylor Wimpey............................. 85,24.................85,84..............85,14.............2,16M Tesco.......................................... 453,20...............460,10............452,80.......... 775,19K Unilever.......................................4.514,5..............4.561,0........... 4.514,5.......... 325,61K Unite........................................... 524,96...............531,50............524,00........... 82,03K United Utilities............................1.391,00............1.419,00......... 1.390,00......... 286,04K Vistry Group................................ 273,98...............283,20............270,75........... 644,1K Vodafone Group PLC................. 120,418.............121,600..........120,250...........3,54M Weir Group................................2.706,00............2.730,00......... 2.676,00.......... 78,64K Whitbread...................................2.465,0..............2.475,0........... 2.457,0........... 47,06K WPP............................................ 389,36...............397,40............388,50.......... 708,63K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 182,65...............184,25............181,36............2,64M Amazon.com............................... 262,65...............265,81............262,42...........27,25M American Express....................... 342,48...............345,99............341,69............1,53M Amgen........................................ 415,21...............416,03............410,50............2,04M Apple........................................... 305,93...............307,49............304,30...........28,23M Boeing......................................... 231,67...............233,43............229,88............2,65M Caterpillar.................................... 856,57...............870,99............850,00............1,89M Chevron...................................... 200,00...............201,63............198,36............7,91M Cisco........................................... 111,68...............113,68............110,06...........29,42M Coca-Cola..................................... 87,71.................87,97..............87,20.............9,17M Goldman Sachs..........................1.039,42............1.043,74......... 1.029,58...........1,59M Home Depot................................ 338,86...............340,81............336,01............3,07M Honeywell................................... 233,96...............234,80............232,39............2,69M IBM............................................. 234,32...............239,15............233,73............4,52M J&J............................................. 260,35...............261,71............259,16.............. 5M JPMorgan................................... 362,84...............365,90............361,45............5,06M McDonald’s................................. 272,83...............275,34............271,27............2,74M Merck&Co................................... 135,84...............135,97............133,40............6,87M Microsoft.................................... 495,40...............500,01............493,92...........16,22M Nike.............................................. 40,73.................41,33..............40,71............23,64M NVIDIA........................................ 225,16...............227,49............224,50...........75,68M P&G............................................ 144,55...............144,91............143,42............7,25M Salesforce Inc............................. 196,21...............204,40............195,32............8,66M Sherwin-Williams........................ 359,10...............361,58............356,87............1,12M The Travelers.............................. 370,36...............371,62............368,01............1,22M UnitedHealth............................... 401,73...............403,18............396,56............3,48M Verizon......................................... 48,48.................48,61..............48,19............15,06M Visa A.......................................... 364,15...............366,80............362,76............8,11M Walmart...................................... 115,27...............116,45............114,64...........14,52M Walt Disney................................. 106,85...............107,11............104,91............8,18M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 17 August
Company
Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Wetour Robotics............................................. 127,70 %........................63,04M MDxHealth ADR............................................... 74,89 %........................326,59M Capricor Therapeutics...................................... 57,96 %.........................66,33M CBL International............................................. 55,92 %........................516,04K Harte Hanks..................................................... 53,02 %..........................4,67M VisionWave Holdings....................................... 44,72 %..........................25,3M Eton Pharmaceuticals...................................... 44,26 %..........................2,32M Digital Asset Acquisition.................................. 43,53 %........................114,72K Safe Pro........................................................... 37,72 %..........................7,37M AudioEye.......................................................... 37,52 %........................965,07K Heartflow......................................................... 35,70 %..........................9,91M Apollomics....................................................... 34,72 %.........................47,75K Evolution Metals Tech...................................... 34,07 %..........................3,56M Modular Medical.............................................. 33,16 %.........................176,2K Neonc Technologies Holdings.......................... 31,46 %........................646,95K China SXT Pharma........................................... 31,21 %.........................16,11M CDT Environmental Tech Investment Holdings.30,63 %..........................1,25M MindForge........................................................ 30,00 %..........................3,86M DEFSEC Tech................................................... 29,87 %........................... 27M M - Million Dollars
Company
Change Net / % Volume Most Declined Innventure........................................................-55,28 %.........................32,64M Blaize Holdings................................................-49,57 %..........................57,2M Microvision......................................................-40,72 %.........................13,65M CXApp..............................................................-36,97 %..........................43,4M YXT.Com Holding ADR....................................-36,81 %........................460,08K GaxosAI...........................................................-34,13 %.........................10,66M Amplitech.........................................................-33,31 %.........................10,36M OFA..................................................................-33,13 %..........................2,75M Super League Enterpris....................................-32,44 %........................433,26K Dare Bioscience...............................................-32,12 %..........................8,09M Healthcare Triangle..........................................-30,06 %..........................1,72M Dawson Geophysical........................................-29,93 %........................520,87K Generation.......................................................-29,35 %.........................34,92M Rocky Mountain Chocolate..............................-26,06 %..........................2,78M Intellicheck Mobilisa........................................-25,20 %..........................2,59M SoundThinking.................................................-25,03 %.........................876,1K Jianzhi Century Technology ADR.....................-24,90 %........................140,58K Our Bond,........................................................-23,52 %..........................2,01M Veritone...........................................................-22,82 %..........................9,19M M - Million Dollars
FINANCE
euroweeklynews.com
Rip offs
PRIME MINISTER Andy Burnham has announced plans to stop “rip off” business practices. Burnham will take steps to prohibit falsely advertised discounts, and aims to make cancelling a subscription less complicated. Overall, the crackdown is expected to benefit UK consumers by up to £400 million.
EA buyout
ELECTRONIC ARTS, the creator of FIFA and The Sims, recently sold to Saudi Arabia’s wealth fund for €47 billion. Despite being a market leader, EA’s annual revenue stagnated in recent years, generating around €6.5 billion annually. The deal is thought to be one of the largest leveraged buyouts, with significant purchasing funds financed by JPMorgan.
Euribor hits two-year high THE Euribor has climbed almost a full percentage point in a year, and mortgage holders in Spain are paying for it. The index that sets most variable mortgages reached 2.913 per cent on Tuesday, August 11, its highest since September 2024 and close to 3 per cent. A year earlier the monthly average was 2.114 per cent. On a €150,000 loan over 25 years at Euribor plus 1 per cent, an annual
Credit: mehaniq / Shutterstock
BUSINESS EXTRA
20 - 26 August 2026
Variable mortgage payments in Spain are rising again as the Euribor climbs.
Bezos buys into Liverpool THE world’s fourth richest man, Jeff Bezos, is looking to expand his portfolio. The Amazon Founder has invested in a variety of sectors since stepping down as CEO, from aerospace to artificial intelligence. Now he’s eyeing a stake in the prestigious Liverpool Football Club Bezos is reportedly part of a consortium that is in talks to purchase
a 30 per cent stake in the club for £1.4 billion. Liverpool’s current owners, the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) bought the club in 2010 for £300 million, when it was reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy. The club is now valued at £4.5 billion, it’s annual revenue totalling £703 million last year.
revision now lifts the payment from €845.24 to €909.65, a difference of more than €64 a month, or around €773 a year. Loans revised every six months rise by just under €56. The European Central Bank raised its key rates by 25 basis points on Thursday, June 11, the first increase since 2023, pointing to inflationary pressure from the war in the Middle East and higher energy costs. Rates were held on Thursday, July 23, but the Euribor has kept rising because markets expect another increase when it meets again on Thursday, September 10. Anyone facing a revision can renegotiate with their bank, move the loan elsewhere or switch to a fixed rate, though the costs have to be recovered from the saving.
15
Project redirected A £430 MILLION power link between the UK and Ireland has been forcibly diverted, after obsessed Harry Potter fans fumed the cable would disturb a ‘memorial’ to Dobby the House Elf. Instead, the 125-mile cable will be rerouted close to the Bronze Age burial site, far from the fictional character’s grave.
Inditex expands SPANISH retail giant Inditex is expanding its presence in Mexico with the opening of new flagship stores for Zara, Massimo Dutti and Oysho. The openings strengthen its presence in South America, where it already operates across major cities. Inditex now has more than 400 stores and 6,600 employees.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM
22
18 20 - 26 August 2026
FEATURE
euroweeklynews.com
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Samuel cycles the world
Making waves
SAMUEL will set off from Malaga on November 15, to pedal 20,235 kilometres across 20 countries. Over 594 days, the 11-year-old plans to visit 56 animal shelters. At every location, he will film a single dog and share its story online, directing donations straight to that shelter’s official payment link. Samuel will be accompanied by his parents. The family chose standard touring bikes to ensure straightforward repairs and avoid airline battery restrictions, so Samuel cover the entire distance using his own pedal power, averaging 50 kilometres a day. His parents will oversee his education during the 19-month trip. Samuel speaks Dutch, English, and Spanish fluently, allowing him to communicate directly with local shelter staff from Morocco to Turkey. The family is currently gathering gear and seeking supporters to help cover equipment, visa, and living expenses.
GENERATIONS of sailors came together on the Costa Blanca for the 62nd Travesia Cabo Roig-Memorial Fernando Pedrera, combining one of the area’s longest-running sailing traditions with support for an important charity. Nearly 40 boats took part in the event, organised by the Real Club Nautico de Torrevieja, with crews racing from Torrevieja to Cabo Roig. The race dates back even further than the Real Club Nautico de Torrevieja itself. More than six decades after the first event, the annual crossing remains firmly established in the local sailing calendar. This year’s Travesia formed part of three days of activities alongside the first Torneo Las Ramblas Golf & Vela and the 12th Copa Astoria. Importantly, the programme also supported AESPANC, the Spanish Association of Pancreatology, helping to give greater visibility to its work.
Costa Blanca North
Almeria
A magical performance
Camino calling
OLIVA’S Artistic Musical Band Association recently took centre stage at Disneyland Paris, opening the great parade and bringing the sound of Oliva’s musical traditions to the most magical place on Earth. Dressed in smart slacks and shirts, the band marched through the streets, each step perfectly in sync, each note perfectly in tune. Leading the parade was no small honour. With the park’s famous characters, colourful floats and thousands of visitors filling the streets, the band became part of one of Europe’s best-known entertainment experiences. The performance marks a significant achievement for the association and its musicians, who have spent decades establishing the organisation. After their performance, band members got a chance to explore the park without their instruments, making the most of everything Disneyland had to offer.
SHAUN GARNER, best known as a member of the Spanish Property Choice team and a Sun Sea & Selling Houses favourite, will be embarking on an incredible cross-country challenge this September, walking over 100 kilometres along the Camino de Santiago. Shaun will be joined by his best friend Emily as they walk the length of Northern Spain, from Ferrol to Santiago. The challenge is about fundraising for a special cause: PAWS-PATAS Animal Shelter. Based in Los Gallardos, the dedicated volunteers at PAWS-PATAS Animal Shelter rescue, rehabilitate and rehome lost, abandoned and abused pets. Every cent raised will go towards food, medical supplies, veterinary care, shelter and adoption transportation for the animals in PAWS-PATAS’ care. Already, Shaun and Emily have already raised over €1,000 through the official GoFundMe page and they haven’t even left home yet. Shaun plans on documenting every step of the Camino on his social media pages, @shaungarnerofficial.
Mallorca
Costa Calida
Sweeney sets sail
Pop in paradise
AS one celebrity departs the island, another arrives, with actress Sydney Sweeney swapping the busy streets of Los Angeles for the calm waters of the Mediterranean. The Emmy nominated star was spotted arriving in Mallorca with her boyfriend and music executive, Scooter Braun. Upon arrival, the Hollywood stars headed to Puerto Andratx where the Rising Sun, a 138-metre superyacht was waiting for them. They boarded and set sail for several days cruising around the island. This Mediterranean getaway comes as a much-needed break for Sweeney, who spent the first half of the summer in Australia, filming for her latest film project. Sweeney was spotted tanning in a blue bikini and diving into the sea to cool down, while Braun entertained himself by racing through the water on jet skis. After several days aboard the Rising Sun, Sweeney and Braun disembarked at Cala Gamba and returned to Palma Airport.
THE Cabo de Pop festival recently closed out its ninth edition after two incredible days of indie artist performances, nautical and water sports activities, and environmental initiatives, uniting nearly 7,000 people in the coastal area of Cabo de Palos. Residents and visitors in Cabo de Palos participated in concerts performed by emerging and popular independent artists, taking place near the idyllic and famed Cabo de Palos lighthouse. In addition to the concerts, visitors also participated in guided sessions of fun-filled, water-based activities, including scuba diving and snorkelling in the cool Mediterranean sea. Other visitors joined guided coastal routes, including paddle surfing and kayaking routes through the privileged scenic areas of Cabo de Palos’ shoreline. A programme of family-friendly, environmental activities also took place, aiming to take advantage of the beautiful areas in Cabo de Palos while also promoting knowledge and respect for its natural heritage.
• EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM •
TOP Trending
brought to you by Revolution Technology
20 - 26 August 2026
Pets included
My Life with the Walter Boys t: Netflix edi Cr
MY Life With The Walter Boys continues the trend of being incredibly addictive television with its third season, now streaming on Netflix. This season sees the love triangle at the centre of the show finally be decided. But just because Jackie has chosen between the Walter boys, doesn’t mean she’s in for a drama-free year.
Like a layered birthday cake, the series can often feel like an over-indulgence, but its sweetness and fluffiness makes it hard to resist clicking ‘next episode’.
The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare t: Netflix edi Cr
IN its newest documentary, Netflix takes audiences back to November 13, 2022, to the night four University of Idaho students were murdered in their home. Piecing together evidence and tying it together with witness accounts, the documentary is a harrowing look into one of the most shocking true-crime cases of the decade. The details of the case can be difficult to watch at times, but above
everything, the documentary ensures the four students lost that night are never forgotten.
THE PINK FLOYD CAVEMAN OF SPAIN! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
SPAIN recently revealed what may be western Europe’s oldest face - and it has been hiding in plain sight for over a million years. Bone fragments recovered from the Sima del Elefante cave near Atapuerca, in Burgos province, belong to the left cheek and upper jaw of an adult human of an extinct species who lived up to 1.4m years ago. That makes it the earliest known human facial fossil in this part of the continent. The find suggests that Iberia was home to at least two different kinds of early human during the early Pleistocene, when the cave lay amid damp woodland threaded with rivers and bustling with wildlife. Hippos, bison
and deer wandered the meadows. Early humans left behind flint tools and butchered bones. The fossil is more primitive than the later Homo antecessor remains found nearby at Gran Dolina, but closely resembles Homo erectus - the species that first left Africa around 1.8 million years ago. Unsure quite where it fits, researchers have cautiously named it Homo affinis erectus. Unofficially, however, it goes by “Pink”, after Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon - a nod to the “hidden face” finally revealed. Yet another small but telling step towards understanding Europe’s earliest inhabitants - though more fossils will be needed before Pink’s place in the family album is completely settled! Finally, many thanks for all messages to my website below. Delighted you enjoy both my column - and novels!
Nora Johnson’s 15 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The Girl in Red’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
19 Photo credit: Moshe EINHORN/Shutterstock
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
euroweeklynews.com
The change could prove crucial during emergencies.
FAMILIES forced to flee a wildfire, flood or other disaster in Portugal may no longer have to choose between their own safety and leaving their animals behind. A new law has formally brought animals into the country’s civil protection system, requiring emergency planning to consider their rescue, evacuation, accommodation and care during disasters. Portugal’s Law No. 38/2026 came into force on August 8. It establishes that civil protection is responsible for protecting and
rescuing animals as well as people and property in danger. Municipal authorities must also take animal needs into account when preparing emergency plans. The change could prove crucial during emergencies when families may have only minutes to evacuate. Animals can become trapped, while livestock may be left behind. The Portuguese Veterinary Medical Association welcomed the move, highlighting the importance of planning for rescue and evacuation. Spain already has a legal
foundation. Ley 7/2023 requires civil protection plans to include animal protection measures. However, Portugal has gone further by explicitly placing animal rescue within the civil protection response. The key question is whether Spain will develop clearer nationwide operational arrangements. For pet owners facing an evacuation, knowing animals are protected matters. Knowing who will rescue them could matter even more when every minute counts for vulnerable families too.
Foghorn wakes sleeping bear A TOURIST sailing through a remote Arctic fjord in Svalbard has been fined €4,560 after sounding a boat horn at a sleeping polar bear. The animal was resting on the shore of Lomfjorden, part of the Hinlopenstretet strait, when someone on board blasted the horn deliberately, waking it and sending it moving off across the land. Other passengers reported the incident to Svalbard’s governor, who ruled it an intentional disturbance rather than an accident. The person was fined NOK 50,000 (€4,560) under Svalbard’s environmental protection law, which bans deliberately disturbing, luring or pursuing a polar bear. The fine has already been accepted and paid. Rules protecting Svalbard’s bears were tightened last year. Visitors must now stay at least 300 metres away from any
bear, rising to 500 metres between March and June, when the animals are most vulnerable to disturbance. Around 300 polar bears live on the archipelago year-round, part of a wider Barents Sea popula-
tion of roughly 3,000 shared with Russia. Svalbard has become a growing draw for wildlife tourists, but officials are clear that a sleeping bear is never a photo opportunity worth disturbing.
20
PETS
euroweeklynews.com • 20 - 26 August 2026 SPONSORED BY
Common cat illness CATS are experts at hiding when something is wrong, which can make illness difficult to spot. Knowing the common warning signs can help you act quickly and get your pet the care they need. One of the most common problems is dental disease. Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling or avoiding hard food can all suggest that your cat’s teeth or gums need attention. Fleas and worms
are also frequent concerns. Scratching, excessive grooming, changes in appetite or an upset stomach may indicate a parasite problem. Regular preventative treatment can help keep these unwanted visitors at bay. Cats can also develop urinary problems, particularly as they get older. Frequent trips to the litter tray, straining to urinate, blood in the urine or suddenly avoiding the tray should never be ignored. Other common conditions include skin allergies, ear infections, obesity and respiratory infections. Symptoms can vary, so changes in your cat’s normal behaviour are often worth noticing. If your cat stops eating, becomes unusually quiet, has difficulty breathing or seems to be in pain, contact your vet promptly. While not every change signals a serious illness, acting early can make a significant difference. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet and good parasite prevention can all help keep your cat healthy and comfortable.
We need more house & pet sitters - Could it be you? WE’RE aways looking for new house and pet sitters to join our community. Have you ever thought about offering your experience in home and pet care in exchange for free accommodation somewhere interesting? How does it work? • It’s a fair exchange: Our housesitters don’t charge for their services. No money changes hands. They exchange their time and dedicated pet care for free accommodation in your home. • Safety is our priority: A mandatory triple ID and fraud check protocol keeps our entire community safe for housesitters and homeowners. • It’s a collaborative community: Our sitters are simply happy to help pets thrive while you’re away. Need a dog sitter for your own canine friend? Whether you’re off on a long cruise or visiting family back home for the holidays, your pets prefer the comfort of their own home. Live-in sitters keep their daily routines intact and your property secure - saving you
Tiera travels as a housesitter meeting new pets at each new housesit.
money and sparing your furry best friend a stressful trip to the kennels. Next step Joining our network is simple, secure, and collaborative: 1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com. 2. Create your profile with photos highlighting your property features and pets. 3. Match and explore with your perfect housesitter partner and start planning your next trip!
For a small annual registration fee (and zero ‘per-sit’ fees), you access a secure, vibrant community. Pets get to stay at home, routines intact, properties remain secure, and you get a budget-friendly way to travel. Why HouseSitMatch works We’re more than a platform - we’re a community. • Checked members - We verify both homeowners and sitters to keep the whole network safe. • Human support - Our team is on hand to guide you, answer questions, and help you. • Easy video tools - Use our secure video call features to meet sitters before confirming the match. “This site is definitely the best... Lamia and her team provide such a personal approach and will talk you through any problems.” - Kay Lattimore Claim your exclusive reader discount Register today at HouseSit Match.com and use code WEL COME25 to receive 25 per cent off your first year.
Lamia Walker, Founder. Call: +44 (0)7772 142 742 Rated excellent on Trustpilot - 4.9/5
Canine perception EVER wondered whether your dog can tell what you’re feeling? New research suggests they may be reading more from your face than we realised. Scientists at the University of Vienna used functional MRI scans to monitor dogs’ brain activity as they looked at photographs of people showing different facial expressions. The dogs were trained to remain still in the scanner while researchers recorded how their brains responded to happy, sad, fearful and angry faces. The results were striking. In one experiment, happy faces produced stronger activity in brain areas involved in visual processing, social information and reward. A second experiment found that dogs’ brains could distinguish happy faces from negative ones. They also showed different patterns of activity when viewing fearful faces compared with sad or angry faces, although they did not reliably distinguish sadness from anger. The research adds to growing evidence that dogs are highly attuned to human emotions. For dog owners, it offers another glimpse into just how closely our pets may be watching us. While it does not mean dogs understand emotions in exactly the same way we do, their ability to pick up subtle facial cues could help explain why they often seem to know when something is wrong, or when we’re ready for a bit of fun.
Credit: Stokkete / Shutterstock
Dogs know more about emotions than we think.
CLASSIFIEDS BUILDING SERVICES APG Renovations, Tiling, Kitchen & Bathrooms. Windows & Doors. Electrical, Plastering, Painting, Carpentry. For FREE quotation. WhatsApp 656 615 434 or visit www. apgrenovations.com (350823)
CHARITY NEW LIFE CHURCH Whether you live in Nerja or are visiting our area, you are very welcome to come and join us at our Sunday gathering. Join us for a time of Holy Spirit led worship and experience the presence of our God. Our teaching is Bible based as we honour God and obey His Word. During this time of uncertainty, God’s Word reminds us that the Gospel shines brightest in times of darkness. Our service lasts for about 1 hour and 30 mins. With
MOTORS FOR SALE
Tea and Coffee afterwards. Sunday Service 11.00am; Prayer Meetings Wednesdays 11.00am; Pasaje San Miguel, Nerja, 29780 Email: info@ nlcnerja.com Website: www. nlcnerja.com Facebook:www. facebook.com/nlcnerja CHARITY Shop Pocapecunia we need things for the house/ kitchen, decoration, vases, plates, cups, saucers, kitchen tools, paintings, pottery pots and pans etc. Prolongacion Avd. Rodgriguez Acosta, Nr the Parador Roundabout, opposite café Trébol, Nerja (294373)
CHURCH SERVICES THE ANGLICAN Chaplaincy of Nerja & Almunecar. Every Sunday there is a Holy Communion service at midday in San Miguel church in Nerja. Every Wednesday morning at 9.30 we have an online ‘Zoom’ HC service - please contact Fr
22
Nigel with an e-mail address if you would like to join us. Priest in Charge, Father Nigel Thomas. Tel: Church House 951 815 736, Mobile: 608 695 756, e-mail: cofenerja@gmail. com. ST BARNABAS ANGLICAN CHURCH (IERE), Traditional services of Holy Communion or Morning Prayer IN ENGLISH. Every Sunday 11am. Av. Moscatel 1 29740 Torre del Mar, (Lux Mundi Ecumenical Centre). EVERYONE WELCOME. Revd. Jairo Sterling, Mobile/WhatsApp 624 214 739, Facebook.com/ stbarnabastorre (300065)
DRAINAGE BLOCKED DRAINS? Leak detection, CCTV survey, root removal. Tel: 952 568 414/661 910 772 david@drainspain. com www.drainspain.com (312014)
GLASS CURTAINS GLASS CURTAINS repairs, specialist in replacement of discoloured plastic strips that act as a seal between the glass panels. Call Julian 655 825 931 (313513)
20 - 26 August 2026 HOME IMPROVEMENTS
VINYL WRAP VINYL SOLUTIONS WHY REPLACE WHEN YOU CAN RENOVATE? Modern adhesive vinyl coverings in hundreds of styles and designs can renovate a tired kitchen, bathroom, wall panels, bedroom wardrobes, fridge doors. Turn a tired looking wood designed kitchen into a modern solid colour or metallic look without painting or replacing. Work carried out on site with 10 year warranties. Contact Ian 644 546 176 for design brochure and samples. (350824)
MASSAGE NERJA Yeni Hi! Sensual masseuse, charming companion, stress relief, intimate massages, irresistible sensations. 624 903 436 (FU 3640)
MOTORING
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 952 147 834. (200726)
REMOVALS ROY TREVOR REMOVALS, Professional worldwide movers. Weekly Services between UK Spain & Portugal. Tel: 951 311 118 Email info@ roy-trevor-removals.
com. www. moving-matters-sl.com (350822)
WINDOW TINTING MOBILE SERVICE. ITV Legal. Solar Reflective tint for glass curtains, balconies, yachts. Stop fading, heat & glare. 644 546 176 ian@ solarshadetinting.com (350824)
MOTORING
euroweeklynews.com
20 - 26 August 2026
23
VW T-Roc – polished and premium ROAD TEST
Facts at a glance
By Mark Slack THERE’S a very generic design trend these days for SUVs, and it’s almost reached the point where if it weren’t for the badge, one would sometimes struggle to identify individual marques. VW is a bit of an exception though in that their distinctive badging and overall packaging sets them a little bit apart and makes them more identifiable. Some vivid colour options also help. T-Roc has four trim levels with two power options from the turbo-charged, 4-cylinder, 1.5-litre eTSI mild hybrid petrol engine. Range prices start from £31,635. Standard fare across all models includes keyless start/stop, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, LED headlights with high beam assist, wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, adaptive cruise control and more. Moving up the range, the equipment levels gather pace to the topof-the-line R-Line at £38,935. Inside the T-Roc there’s a more solid, premium feel than many competitors, with soft touch, more durable materials and far less hard plastics. There are decent amounts of space for both front and
• Model: Volkswagen - T-Roc R-Line • Engine: 1.5 eTSI 150 PS 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol Gears: 7 speed DSG • Price: €45,543/£38,935 • Performance: 0 - 100kph/62 mph 8.9 seconds/Maximum speed 212kph/132 mph • Economy: 5.6 litres per 100km/50.3 mpg • Emissions: 128 g/km
rear occupants and the luggage area feels okay rather than a lesson in capaciousness. Naturally the spectre of touchscreen functions rears its head, as with all manufacturers, and the heating and ventilation controls are an example in point being way too fiddly. To be fair VW aren’t as bad as some manufacturers and in the T-Roc a centre console mounted rotary control does mitigate matters. On the road the test T-Roc was the 150PS R-Line model priced at £38,935. The R-Line isn’t an R, even though it looks suitably sporty, and while it’s no sports
SUV it is more than capable of being fun with the benchmark 62mph reached in a whisker under 9 seconds, so it feels brisk rather than fast. It handles well too and the 7-speed DSG - no manual option - changes smoothly. The engine itself is a smooth performer, maybe because it eschews the once popular 3-cylinder power units that found favour with so many manufacturers, VW included. The T-Roc offers a less homogeneous style than many SUVs, particularly Chi-
Model tested was UKspecification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets nese models, and the VW name still possess a cachet that’s lacking for many rivals. Unlike a lot of SUVs the T-Roc isn’t brash or in your face with its look. VW has upped their game with what is only the second iteration (with a mid-term facelift) of the T-Roc. Its popularity will certainly be bolstered by this latest more polished and premium entry to their SUV catalogue.
SPAIN is becoming an increasingly motorbike-friendly country, but the typical rider is changing. Motorcycle registrations are rising strongly, while the average age of riders continues to climb. In the first half of 2026, Spain registered 141,101 new motorcycles, a 23.6 per cent increase on the same period last year, making it one of Europe’s fastest-growing major markets. For many Spanish riders, motorcycles are about far more than weekend thrills. Scooters remain a practical choice for navigating busy city streets, cutting commuting times and avoiding the perennial search for parking. Others are choosing larger bikes for touring, leisure rides and exploring Spain’s famously varied roads. The changing age profile also says something
Credit:Romain P19 / Shutterstock.com
Motorcycle boom Credit: Jakub Sisulak / Shutterstock
Get out, lift barrier, drive through.
Family’s French free ride Older riders are hitting the road.
about how motorcycling is evolving. Experienced riders are staying in the saddle for longer, bringing with them different priorities. Comfort, reliability, safety and technology can matter just as much as outright performance. That does not mean the adventurous spirit has
disappeared. Spain’s climate, winding mountain routes and long stretches of open road make riding an attractive way to travel and unwind. With registrations continuing to grow, Spain’s motorcycle scene looks set to become bigger, older and increasingly diverse.
A BRITISH family has been caught after dodging French motorway tolls for at least six months by simply lifting the barrier at toll booths. Officers from the Doubs departmental flow-control squadron said the family used three cars travelling together. One passenger would get out, raise the barrier by hand, let all the vehicles through, then close it again and climb back in. Their scheme unravelled on Saturday, August 8, when cameras operated by APRR, the company running the A36 motorway, spotted the same manoeuvre near Belfort. APRR alerted local police, who had a motorised patrol nearby. Officers set up a checkpoint at the next toll station, in Saint-Maurice-Colombier,
in the Doubs. Shortly after 1pm, the three vehicles arrived and were stopped. All occupants, described as English nationals from the same family, were questioned at the scene. Police called it “the simplest technique there is,” though they said toll fraud of this kind is common. Fake number plates and drivers forcing barriers with their vehicles are also frequently reported. Investigators calculated the family’s unpaid tolls at roughly €3,000. Rather than face legal proceedings, they paid the full amount that same day. Police warned that camera surveillance across France’s motorway network makes it increasingly difficult for repeat offenders to avoid detection.
Hikers settle in for the eclipse. LA MAROMA offered a spectacular setting this week as a group of hikers took to the mountains for a unique night-time adventure combining hiking, astronomy and nature. On August 12 and 13, walkers from across Andalucia tackled a demanding 18-kilometre route to the summit of La Maroma, the highest peak in Malaga province. Starting from the El Robledal recreation area on the Granada side of the mountain, the challenging climb required good fitness and previous mountain experience. The reward was an extraordinary view from the summit. Participants were able to crack open a well-earned beer and watch the partial solar eclipse during the
day, before staying on the mountain for the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, two of August’s most anticipated astronomical events. Organised by Club Deportivo Playas de Torre del Mar, with support from Velez-Malaga Town Hall, APTA Axarquia and local businesses, the event attracted enthusiastic hikers keen to experience La Maroma in a very different way. Far from the lights of the coast, the mountain became a natural observatory. The successful event highlighted the appeal of the Axarquia as a destination for active and nature-based tourism, while giving participants an unforgettable reason to look up from the trail and towards the stars.
euroweeklynews.com
Legacy swim THE waters of Torre del Mar came alive when swimmers gathered for the XXVI Pepe Fajardo Open Water Swim, one of the area’s most cherished summer sporting events. Combining competition, community spirit and a tribute to local sporting heritage, the annual 1,500 metre race once again brought together swimmers of different ages and abilities along the Malaga coastline. Created in memory of Pepe Fajardo, a pioneer of open water swimming in the area, the event continues the tradition he began by taking on the challenge of swimming the stretch between the Torre del Mar lighthouse and the Club Nautico. His passion inspired generations of swimmers and helped establish the race as a much-loved fixture in the local calendar.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Velez-Malaga
Under the stars
Credit: Club Deportivo Playas de Torre del Mar
SPORT
24 20 - 26 August 2026
Torrox waters filled with swimmers. Organised with the support of local sports organisations, the event offered a celebration of endurance and togetherness rather than just a test of speed. With the sea as its backdrop, participants enjoyed a memorable morning of athletic achievement
and a shared enthusiasm for swimming. More than two decades after its creation, the Pepe Fajardo Open Water Swim remains a powerful reminder of how sport can preserve memories, connect communities and inspire future generations.