Costa Calida 18 – 24 Jun 2026 Issue 2137

Celebrating seniors

Cartagena hosts vibrant event to boost senior care

THE Costa Calida city of Cartagena has given a historic boost to its policies in aid of seniors in the municipality with the 16th edition of the Senior Citizens’ Fair, an event that brought together a total of 42 organisations in the Parque de los Juncos. The fair also represents the tripling of the budget for the aid to seniors in the last two years, and this ‘comprehensive and successful model of active ageing’ will be presented to the World Health Organisation in San Sebastian.

The 16th Senior Citizens’ Fair was a vibrant showcase of the resources available in Cartagena for the elderly population. The event featu-

red a strong presence from neighbourhood associations, senior’s clubs and non-profit organisations.

During the weekend, at-

tendees had uninterrupted access to hearing tests, blood pressure checks, blood glucose tests, and diabetes screenings. The fair’s pro-

gramme, apart from these health-related initiatives, also included a fun aspect, with demonstrations and workshops, collections for charities, social events, musical performances, and active events.

Additionally, Sunday, June 14 saw a strong social focus to the fair with the commemoration of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which is officially observed on Monday, June 15. Cartagena observed this day with an active hike along the Senior Trail to the Castillo de la Concepcion at 11.30am to reaffirm Cartagena’s commitment to the well-being and protection of its senior citizens.

Rojo & Red revamp

DURING the first days of June, Puerto de Mazarron became the epicentre of fine gastronomy on the Costa Calida with the special Rojo & Red Gastronomic Days 2026 event, a programme that brought together three talented, Michelin-starred chefs from the Basque Country in the idyllic southeastern municipality.

The 2026 edition of the event took place on the Paseo Agustín Herrerín. Already established as one of the great gastronomic events of the Region of Murcia, this year was dedicated to the vibrant and savoury Basque cuisine and brought together industry-leading chefs, producers, wineries, and hospitality establishments.

One of the main draws of this edi-

tion of the event was the participation of three renowned chefs from the Basque Country, all of whom were awarded the coveted and prestigious Michelin star: Sergio Ortiz, from Res

taurante Zarate in Bilbao; Julen Bergantiños, from Restaurante Islares in Bilbao; and Fernando González, from Restaurante La Revelia in Amorebieta.

The grand event included gastronomic presentations, cooking workshops, tastings for tapas, snacks, and wines, concerts, DJ sessions, and children’s activities. The programme highlighted culinary excellence, boosted tourism, and gave a jolt of life to the local Puerto de Mazarron economy.

Once more, Puerto de Mazarron has been placed on the gastronomic map, this time by Michelin-starred talents in a well-established event that combined food, leisure, culture, fun, and a

Festive flare

HUNDREDS of local residents and visitors filled the Town Hall Square in San Pedro del Pinatar over the weekend, with the arrival of the annual patron saint festivities, a large cultural event that filled the municipality with fun. The event was kicked off by the opening rocket in the Town Hall Square, where residents, organisations, and associations gathered to welcome these days of celebration.

The event was opened with a speech from the mayor of San Pedro del Pinatar, Pedro Javier Sánchez, as well as from the town crier of this year’s festivities, Saturnino García. The speech was immediately followed by the countdown and launch of a fireworks rocket, unleashing joy among the attendees and beginning the lively festival atmosphere.

The first day of the event was also marked by a concert with live music by Los Vinilos and a DJ set that kept up the festive atmosphere in the square.

Summer splash Submerged snapshots

MAZARRON has presented the 2026 Regional Underwater Photography Championships, as well as the Underwater Photography in Apnea, two events organised by the Federation of Underwater Activities of the Region of Murcia and which will see dozens of photographers participate. The competitions will bring together these athletes and photographers in some of the most idyllic diving locations of the region, including Piles II and Bajo de Dentro, El Arco and Cala Cerrada and Pico del Aguila.

Some 50 total athletes will participate, taking to different locations in the Region of Murcia in a competition that will also award places for the Spanish national championships of underwater photography.

The images captured during the dives will be judged by a national jury

based on various criteria, including technical quality, creativity, and ability to capture the richness of the marine fauna, flora, and landscapes.

The top three teams will qualify for the Spanish Championship, which will be held in Menorca from September 15 to September 20.

The competition will not only be a fun oppor-

tunity for these photographers and athletes to compete and take stunning photographs, but it will also be a shining chance to showcase the great natural areas and prestigious heritage of the Region of Murcia, which boasts more than 250 kilometres of coastlines between the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor.

THE Mazarron Municipal Swimming Pool is preparing to host the 'Great Welcome to Summer 2026', a massive educational and leisure celebration that will have 150 available slots for children from the municipality to participate. The programme, which will take place at the swimming pool from June 23 to June 30, will include a free bus service from both Mazarron and Puerto de Mazarron.

The programme is aimed at children between the ages

of six and 12, and who are registered or enrolled in a school in the municipality. This proposal, according to officials who organised it, aims at offering a special experience for children beyond a simple end-of-year activity, and provides families with a fun experience to share during the first days of school holidays.

The programme has been designed so that the children of the municipality can enjoy days full of aquatic activities, games, team challenges,

creative workshops and numerous surprises, while promoting coexistence, personal autonomy and the creation of new friendships. Families can register through the General Registry Office of the Mazarron Town Hall, or through the municipal Electronic Office, and will remain open until all available places are filled. For more information, those who are interested in participating can contact the email address igualdad@mazarron. es or call 682 043 318.

Community fees deadline COURT ISSUES WARNING

SPAIN’s Supreme Court has ruled that homeowners’ associations cannot wait indefinitely to recover unpaid community fees after a case in which more than €4,800 became legally unrecoverable because of time limits.

The dispute involved two property owners who accumulated €6,497.30 in unpaid community charges between 2007 and 2014. The homeowners’ association sought to recover the full amount, but the Supreme Court applied current legislation establishing a five-year limitation period for

such claims. As a result, only around €1,696 plus legal interest remained recoverable, while debts dating from 2007 to 2013 were ruled time-barred.

The decision is attracting attention across Spain as it affects thousands of apartment blocks, residential complexes and urbanisations that rely on community fees to fund maintenance, cleaning, repairs and shared services.

Legal experts warn that communities often delay action against non-paying owners in the hope debts will be settled voluntarily, but waiting too long

can mean losing the legal right to recover older amounts.

The court based its decision on Law 42/2015, which reduced the limitation period for community fee claims from 15 years to five years. Specialists recommend starting formal recovery procedures promptly, beginning with written payment demands and, if necessary, using Spain’s simplified ‘monitorio’ court process. The ruling does not erase unpaid debts automatically but highlights that legal claims have a strict time limit.

Knocking on trouble

SPAIN is warning companies that aggressive doorstep sales tactics can lead to fines reaching up to €1 million as complaints rise over unwanted visits linked to energy contracts, internet services and home alarm systems.

While door-to-door sales remain legal, authorities say the situation changes once pressure, persistence or harassment become part of the conversation. Under Spanish consumer protection and unfair competition laws, companies can face serious penalties if representatives continue insisting after someone has refused, repeatedly return to a property or pressure vulnerable residents. Officials say the law protects consumers from aggressive behaviour that limits their ability to make calm decisions inside their homes. The warning follows growing frustration among re-

sidents over intrusive, unexpected visits. Complaints often involve representatives comparing electricity bills, pushing urgent discounts or refusing to leave. Spanish legislation also covers repeated unwanted contact through phone calls or emails once consumers request that companies stop.

Penalties vary depending on the severity of the infringement. Smaller violations result in fines worth thousands of euros, while the most serious cases can reach between €100,000 and €1 million. Authorities can increase penalties further depending on the profits generated. Consumer organisations say older residents are particularly vulnerable to these face-to-face tactics. Spanish authorities insist companies must respect a consumer’s decision, warning that persistence alone can become illegal.

Bottle return rules

Recycling made easier

SPAIN’S new drinks container deposit scheme could change the way millions of people recycle bottles, cans and cartons from August 2026. Under the Deposit, Return and Refund System (SDDR), consumers will pay an extra 10 cents when buying certain beverages and receive the money back when returning the empty container.

One of the least known aspects of the system is that shoppers will not necessarily have to return containers to the place where they bought them. Participating supermarkets, shops, bars and restaurants will be expected to accept eligible containers even if they were purchased elsewhere.

This means someone could buy a bottle of water in one supermarket and return it to a different participating business to recover the deposit. Authorities believe this flexibility will make the system easier to use and encourage higher recycling rates.

The scheme aims to improve the collection and recycling of single-use drinks containers across Spain, with officials targeting a 90 per cent recovery rate for eligible packaging before 2029.

The new rules will also bring added responsibilities for businesses. Supermarkets, convenience stores, bars and restaurants must manage returned containers regardless of where they were sold. Larger retailers are expected to use reverse vending machines, while smaller establishments may face storage and handling challenges.

The system is expected to cover plastic bottles, cans and beverage cartons of up to three litres, including bottled water, soft drinks, juices and canned beverages. Authorities insist the extra 10 cents is not a tax but a refundable deposit reclaimed through the approved collection network.

euroweeklynews.com

THE Regional Blood Donation Centre has moved its blood donation campaigns in Aguilas to the Aguilas Norte and Aguilas Sur health centres, starting next month. The collections, which were carried out periodically, will no longer be held at the Casa del Mar, citizens are informed.

According to the announcement distributed by the Aguilas Town Hall, representatives from the blood donation centre will visit the municipality on Tuesday, July 7 and Tuesday, July 14 at the Aguilas Sur Health Centre, and on Tuesday, July 21 and Tuesday, July 28 at the Aguilas Norte Health Centre.

Donor drive

The decision to move the blood donation centres aims to offer the residents of the municipality a more comfortable, accessible, and higher quality of care for the blood donors in the town, who offer a vi-

tal and often life-changing resource to those with health complications.

These new locations boast excellent sanitation and health amenities, and will also allow for improved care for the donors, as well as improved working conditions for the health professionals who organise the blood donation campaigns.

Additionally, the coordination of the blood donation process is expected to improve, as the new centres are specially curated environments made to carry out this health activity.

Female football frenzy

MAZARRON has united to host the FIFA-AREF ‘They Play’ event, dedicated to promoting and raising the profile of women’s football. This initiative, promoted by the Mazarron Town Council’s Department of Sports, has been organised by the Football Federation of the Region of Murcia, also known as FFRM, and took place at the Mazarron Sports Complex on Saturday, June 13. The main highlight of the day was the Women’s Talent Cup, an event that brought together hundreds of female footballers across 18 teams and in varying age groups. These represented the different districts and areas of the Region of Murcia, with an attendance of some 1,500 people. Some of the re -

sidents who showed up to support the athletes included their peers, coaches, family members and friends.

Attendees and fans also enjoyed an exhibition that showcased the national team’s most important trophies, including the World Cup, the UEFA Nations League trophy, and the European Championship trophy.

Nearly 400 female footballers in total showed up to participate in this shining event, setting an example for young, aspirational footballers and showcasing their prowess in this popular sport. Overall, the day combined sport, community spirit and the promotion of the values of women’s football.

THE Region of Murcia’s Symphony Orchestra is celebrating the ‘Year of Falla’ with two major concerts in Cartagena and Murcia, featuring pianist Javier Perianes. The concerts, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth, and the 80th anniversary of the death of famed composer Manuel de Falla, and also mark the end of the regional symphony’s season at El Batel in Cartagena and the Víctor Villegas Regional Auditorium.

The orchestra is led under the baton of Maestro Manuel Hernández-Silva, alongside aforementioned and talented soloist Javier Perianes, who was the winner of the 2012 National Music Prize and Artist of the Year at the International Classical Music Awards in 2019. This programme takes listeners through some

Falla fest

of the most spectacular works of both Manuel de Falla and Maurice Ravel, including masterpieces like de Falla’s Nights in the Gardens of Spain and Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major. The pieces performed at these concerts exhibit colour, energy, and life, and stand as emblematic pieces of 20th-century

piano pieces.

Finally, the second part of the concert includes pieces like Mother Goose and The Three-Cornered Hat, representing expressions of Manuel de Falla’s artistic prowess and creative genius, and remain an essential reference point for contemporary symphonic composers and performers.

Volunteering victory

CAIXABANK VOLUNTEERING has successfully mobilised some 350 volunteers, and benefited thousands of vulnerable people in the Region of Murcia in a ‘Social Month’ event that broke records. The event, which took place at the end of May and for the beginning of June, saw 75 solidarity activities carried out in the region across 35 local social groups.

To be specific, more than 4,000 vulnerable people in the Region of Murcia benefited from this fourth edition of the social charity event, which saw 7 per cent more volunteers participate than in the previous edition and consolidating CaixaBank Volunteering as one of the largest corporate volunteering programmes on a national scale.

This ‘Social Month’ event also coincided

with the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development, promoted by the United Nations, which recognises the contribution of volunteering groups and organisations.

Some of the most notable activities included 24 volunteers collaborating with the association Autismo Somos Todos (AMUDEF) on a solidarity walk that brought together 300 beneficiaries in Cartagena; and in Molina de Segura, around 20 volunteers participated in a day with the Centauro Quirón Foundation and collaborated in the daily care of rescued animals.

Across Spain, more than 19,500 volunteers have participated in ‘Social Month’ activities, benefiting more than 155,000 people with low resources or in vulnerable situations.

Olive pit asphalt

BARCELONA is testing a new form of road surface that incorporates biochar produced from agricultural waste, including olive pits and forestry residues, as part of efforts to reduce the environmental impact of urban infrastructure projects. The initiative forms part of the city’s ‘21st Century Street Section’ programme and involves collaboration between Barcelona City Council, research institutions and private sector partners.

The material is not intended to replace traditional asphalt. Instead, biochar is used as a partial substitute for the mineral filler normally added to asphalt mixtures. Biochar is created by heating organic material in low-oxygen conditions, a process that stabilises carbon and allows it to be incorporated into construction materials.

According to project assessments, replacing

conventional fillers with biochar could reduce the carbon footprint of asphalt production by approximately 75 to 76 per cent. Researchers attribute these reductions to lower processing emissions and the ability of biochar to retain carbon within the pavement structure.

Pilot tests are currently being monitored in selected areas of Barcelona, including parts of the Eixample district. Engineers

are evaluating durability, strength, weather resistance and performance under everyday traffic conditions before deciding whether wider adoption is feasible.

Bear on the run

A DRIVER in northern Spain experienced a wildlife encounter they are unlikely to forget after a large bear suddenly ran onto the road directly in front of their car.

The dramatic moment, captured on video and shared on social media,

shows the animal emerging onto a mountain road near Leon before breaking into a run ahead of the vehicle.

Rather than disappearing into the surrounding countryside, the bear continues sprinting along the tarmac for

several seconds as the stunned motorist slows down and films the scene.

The footage has attracted thousands of views online, with many commenters describing it as both incredible and surreal. Some joked that the bear appeared to be leading the way for the driver, while others admitted they would have been nervous to find themselves so close to one of Spain’s largest wild animals.

Wildlife enthusiasts believe the animal is likely to have been a Cantabrian brown bear, a protected species found mainly in the mountainous regions of Asturias, Cantabria, Leon and Galicia.

Although bear sightings have become more common in recent years thanks to successful conservation efforts, experts say brown bears are naturally shy and generally avoid people.

AC/DC fined for noise

MADRID City Council fined the AC/DC concert at the Metropolitano stadium €80,800.80 after Municipal Police recorded night-time noise levels between five and 10 decibels above permitted limits. Municipal regulations classify exceedances of more than seven decibels at night as very serious infringements, which applied in this case and led to the highest penalty issued for stadium events in 2025.

Other events at the venue also faced sanctions. An Imagine Dragons concert received a €500 fine for a four-decibel breach classified as minor, while a youth football tournament was fined €180 for a similar daytime exceedance.

Across 29 inspections during 2025, 14 events complied with noise limits, four recorded breaches, and

the remainder were invalid due to procedural errors. Residents living near the stadium have repeatedly raised concerns about noise, traffic, litter, and the building design, which they say allows sound to escape into surrounding residential areas.

The city has introduced mitigation measures including sound-absorbing panels, speaker direction controls, and façade monitoring. Events are generally required to end by midnight, with limited

extensions at weekends.

The Ombudsman has withdrawn from the case as prosecutors continue environmental investigations.

Authorities said enforcement will continue as large-scale concerts remain under scrutiny in densely populated areas of Madrid. Officials maintain that the aim is to balance cultural events with legal noise limits and protect residents living near the stadium environment long term.

Pope’s royal jet rescue

POPE LEO XIV’s visit to Spain ended with an unexpected travel drama after a technical fault grounded his aircraft in Tenerife, forcing Spain’s King Felipe VI to step in and help get him home.

The Pope had been preparing to fly back to Rome from Tenerife North Airport following a six-day tour of Spain when problems emerged with the plane before departure. Reports said engineers were unable to resolve the issue immediately, leaving the pontiff and his entou-

rage stranded on the ground.

With the flight unable to continue as planned, King Felipe, who had travelled to Tenerife to bid farewell to the Pope, offered the use of his official Falcon jet. The Pope was then able to continue his journey to Rome aboard the Spanish government aircraft.

The remainder of the papal delegation and the journalists travelling with him stayed behind to await a replacement aircraft.

The disruption came

at the end of a busy visit that took Pope Leo to Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands. During the trip, he met political and religious leaders, celebrated Masses attended by thousands of worshippers and focused on issues including migration and social inclusion.

One of the most symbolic moments of the visit came in Barcelona, where the Pope took part in celebrations linked to the completion of the final tower of the famous Sagrada Família.

Looking at eye level

ECONOMIST Gabriel García has suggested that Mercadona shoppers may be spending more than necessary because of how products are arranged on supermarket shelves. He argues that items placed at eye level are often higher-priced or higher-margin products, while cheaper alternatives may be positioned higher or lower on the same aisle.

According to García, consumers tend to focus on the middle shelves, which are the most visible and accessible. This can lead to overlooking lower-cost options placed outside the direct line of sight.

Retail specialists note that supermarkets use shelf placement to influence purchasing behaviour. Eye-level positions are considered premium space, often used for products retailers want to promote or sell in greater volume. This strategy is widely used across gro-

International Day of Yoga

cery chains, not only Mercadona.

García advises shoppers to compare all products within a section, including checking unit prices such as cost per kilogram or litre. He suggests that small savings per item can accumulate over time in regular household shopping. The comments have circulated widely online, with some consumers saying

BRITS abroad often assume holiday destinations share the UK’s legal approach to childcare and other laws, but assuming British rules apply in Spain can lead to severe consequences. This reality was demonstrated at a resort in Benalmadena on the Costa del Sol, where a British couple left their three young children unsupervised to visit an

Photo credit:Veja/Shutterstock

THOUSANDS of wellness enthusiasts are preparing to gather as the Indian Embassy launches its 12th annual International Day of Yoga across Spain and Andorra. Organised with local town halls and cultural groups, this year’s tour spans 33 locations under the global theme, ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’, focusing on long-term mental and physical well-being.

they will change how they shop.

Mercadona has not commented on the claim, and the remarks reflect general retail practices rather than company policy. Experts also emphasise that shoppers should not assume price based on shelf height alone, as product range and promotions vary between stores and categories each week.

adult bar.

The 41-year-old man and 28-year-old woman received a suspended prison sentence of one year and four months.

They were also disqualified from exercising parental authority, and Andalucian social services took the children into care.

In Spain, leaving children unsu-

All events are free, open to all ages, and require no prior experience. The national schedule features major gatherings on the official UN global day, Sunday, June 21. In Madrid, a massive open-air session will take place at Plaza de Oriente from 9am to 11am. Simultaneously, Barcelona will host its primary gathering at Parc Joan Miró from 8.30am to 10am.

Southern Spain will host several coastal and inland sessions. Malaga holds a sunset event on Saturday, June 20 at 9.30pm, followed on Sunday, June 21 by an afternoon session in Torremolinos at 4pm and a morning gathering

Spain is different

pervised in dangerous circumstances is a specific criminal offence under the Criminal Code. While the UK approach under the Children

in Cordoba.

The tour reaches across the country, from Bilbao to the Canary Islands. Specialised sessions include a youth event in Valladolid on Friday, June 12, a women’s evening class in Madrid on Thursday, June 25, and an inclusive session with sign language translation in Tenerife on Saturday, June 27. Attendees should bring a mat, water, and sun protection. For all information, visit the official page on the Embassy of India in Madrid website.

and Young Persons Act is often welfare-led initially, Spanish authorities intervene sharply in high-risk situations. Claiming ignorance of the law is not an acceptable defence. Tourists frequently misjudge Spanish regulations, assuming they mirror home rules. However, local expectations regarding family responsibility and public behaviour

are strictly enforced. For instance, walking shirtless or in swimwear away from beach areas can attract fines between €120 and €750 in regions like the Costa del Sol, Barcelona, and the Balearics. Visitors must understand local laws rather than assuming UK standards apply, as parental responsibilities do not end at the border.

Best star-gazing

DARK SKY ALQUEVA

in Portugal has won top honours as Europe’s best stargazing destination at the Tourism Leaders Awards 2026. The protected zone in the Alentejo region earned the award for best astrotourism experience. Located near the Spanish border, the reserve covers about 10,000 square kilometres. Exceptionally low artificial lighting levels produce outstanding sky quality for viewing stars, attracting thousands of international visitors.

Nearby villages, inclu-

ding Alandroal, Reguengos de Monsaraz, Portel and Mourão, offer affordable rural accommodation and meals. These communities actively reduce street lighting at night to optimise conditions for skywatching.

Several celestial displays will occur later this year. A total solar eclipse takes place on Wednesday, August 12. Although the path of totality crosses northern Spain, partial phases will be highly visible under the dark skies of the Portuguese reserve. The Perseid

meteor shower peaks on Wednesday, August 12 and Thursday, August 13. Excellent conditions, caused by a new moon, will allow visitors to see numerous streaks every hour.

Later in the year, a partial lunar eclipse happens on Friday, August 28. Saturn reaches opposition on Saturday, October 4, remaining visible all night. The Geminid meteor shower peaks on Monday, December 13 and Tuesday, December 14, followed by a spectacular supermoon on Thursday, December 24.

Designer dinosaur

RUNNING experiments with dinosaur DNA is the plot of an iconic franchise, but has now become a 21st century reality. Learning from the films, real-life scientists did not try to bring dinosaurs back from extinction (not yet, anyways), instead they paired science with fashion to create a leather bag made from T-Rex skin.

Twenty-five years ago, a T-Rex femur was discovered in the state of Montana in the United States. Using advanced technology, scientists harnessed the traces of collagen remaining on the bone to create a replica of T-Rex skin, which scientists claim to be an accurate replica of what would have existed over 67 million years ago.

With no previous precedent, auctioneers at the Parisian auction house Giquello had to come up with a price.

The T-Rex skin was then used to create a leather handbag, possibly the most luxurious accessory to ever exist.

In what is a first for science and fashion, the bag recently went up for sale.

Ahead of its June 13 sale, auctioneers anticipated bids as high as €500,000 for the ‘one of a kind’ piece.

Even the richest among us were not convinced, however, as the T-Rex bag peaked at €150,000 during the auction, and ultimately failed to sell.

Answer the phone

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I SOMETIMES wonder if I accidentally slept through a meeting where everybody agreed to abolish customer service. It clearly happened. There was a time when, if you had a problem, you picked up the telephone, dialled a number and, after a reasonable interval, another human being answered. You explained the issue, they attempted to solve it, and everyone went away relatively satisfied. Simple.

Today, before you’re even allowed to describe your problem, you’re interrogated by a machine with all the warmth and charm of a parking ticket. ‘Please listen carefully, as our options have changed.’ Then begins the obstacle course. Press 1 for this. Press 2 for that. Press 3 if you’ve forgotten why you called in the first place. By the time you’ve navigated 12 separate menus, you’ve reached a department that has absolutely nothing to do with your enquiry. Which is when the recording cheerfully informs you: ‘Your call is important to us.’ No, it’s not.

If my call were important to you, Doris from Accounts would have answered 10 minutes ago instead of me ageing visibly while listening to an utterly boring flute rendition of Greensleeves.

Then there is the modern miracle of customer support websites. Remember when companies used to publish a telephone number? Now they send you to a website containing pages of Frequently Asked Questions. The trouble is, the question you want answered is never one of the frequently asked ones.

You spend half an hour clicking through pages entitled ‘Helpful Resources’, ‘Customer Journey’ and ‘Support Hub’. Eventually you find a tiny link marked ‘Contact Us’. You click it, which takes you to another page explaining that most enquiries can be answered by visiting the Help Centre. Which is exactly where you have spent the last half hour. It’s like asking a passer-by to go back and ask the passer-by.

I truly do suspect the entire system was designed by someone whose main ambition in life was never to speak to a customer. Then there are the self-checkouts which are springing up everywhere. We’re told these exist for

our convenience. Funny sort of convenience. You do all the scanning, all the packing, all the work. Then a machine accuses you of placing an unexpected item in the bagging area. The unexpected item is a loaf of bread. Mmm! How can it be unexpected if I put it there? At this point, a weary (superior) assistant wanders over and taps a secret code into the machine as though defusing a bomb. Progress, apparently.

The strange thing is that all this technology was supposed to simplify life. Yet somehow every transaction now involves passwords, verification codes, security questions and enough online forms to apply for planning permission. Perhaps I’m old-fashioned. Perhaps this really is the golden age of customer service. But I can’t help feeling that if a company genuinely wants to stand out from the crowd these days, it should try something radical. Answer the phone. Employ human beings. Solve the problem. And stop telling me how important my call is while leaving me on hold long enough to qualify for a state pension.

Keep the faith, Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

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

Spain’s transplant loophole

SPAIN’S organ transplant system is widely regarded as one of the most successful and tightly regulated in the world. Managed by the National Transplant Organisation (ONT), it allocates donor organs according to medical need and generally limits access to Spanish citizens and foreign nationals who are legally resident in the country. These restrictions are designed to prevent transplant tourism and ensure scarce organs are distributed fairly.

The system came under scrutiny following a Guardia Civil investigation into a network that allegedly helped Bulgarian kidney patients gain access to Spain’s healthcare system through fraudulent registrations. Investigators found that fictitious employment contracts and false Social Security enrolments were used to obtain Spanish health cards for people who did not meet residency requirements.

These restrictions are designed to prevent transplant tourism.

Authorities concluded that 14 Bulgarian citizens received healthcare access through the scheme and that six ultimately underwent kidney transplants. The operation is estimated to have cost Spain’s public healthcare system more than €1.5 million. The case raised concerns because donor organs remain in short supply, meaning every transplant performed for an ineligible recipient potentially affects patients legitimately waiting for treatment. Officials stressed that the financial cost was less significant than the potential impact on fairness and public trust.

Barcelona’s busy Renaissance revival!

BARCELONA is polishing its crown. From the Sagrada Familia’s gleaming new cross (recently blessed by the Pope) to the careful reinvention of its best known street, La Rambla, the city is staging a confident return to form after years of political and economic upheaval.

Catalonia’s leaders speak of renewal. Major sporting events, cultural milestones and infrastructure upgrades are all part of a wider effort to recapture momentum - and prestige. The ambition is clear: to reclaim economic leadership from Madrid and restore Barcelona’s standing as Spain’s industrial powerhouse.

The rivalry with the capital is as spirited as ever, played out in tax policy, investment flows and political philosophy. While Madrid

courts business with lighter taxation, Catalonia prioritises prudence and long-term strategy. Some companies that fled during the independence crisis are cautiously returning, bringing a whiff of optimism.

Industry and innovation remain central to the comeback story. Carmakers are pivoting to electric vehicles, hospitals are advancing medical research, and a striking supercomputing hub hints at technological ambition.

Meanwhile, the region’s celebrated cuisine is rediscovering its roots, drawing discerning diners from around the globe. Tourism is being carefully recalibrated - fewer crowds, more refinement. Yet challenges remain: creaking railways, unresolved political tensions and lingering doubts about direction. Barcelona, it seems, is rebuilding - but still deciding exactly what it wants to be.

Anyway, put on your walking shoes and get exploring!

Thanks for emails to my website below. Delighted you enjoy my novels too!

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

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Sterling gains

THE British pound strengthened against both the euro and the US dollar as improving global risk sentiment boosted investor confidence. Markets reacted positively to easing trade tensions and stronger economic signals, supporting sterling gains. Analysts also pointed to expectations around interest rates and resilient UK economic data as factors helping the currency outperform the euro.

Mascot marketing

SOME of the biggest companies are switching tactics, now relying on adorable mascots to gain global recognition and entice customers. Mascots give brands a personality and can create instant brand recognition. According to 2019 research, marketing campaigns featuring cute mascots are 37 per cent more likely to be successful.

Parental leave

SPAIN’S Supreme Court has confirmed that single-parent families are entitled to an additional 10 weeks of birth and childcare leave, increasing total leave from 16 to 26 weeks. The ruling follows a Constitutional Court decision aimed at preventing inequality between children in single-parent and two-parent households, while strengthening treatment rights.

Housing gap

BUYING a home in Spain now requires 8.4 years of gross salary on average. House prices rose 20.5 per cent in 2025, while wages increased just 1 per cent. Around €230,000 is needed for an 80m² property, based on an average annual salary of €27,336.

Fresh produce

DESPITE rising prices, Spaniards are still prioritising healthy eating, with 35 per cent of their shopping basket made up of fresh produce. According to a recent study, Spanish families allocate 44 per cent of their food budget to fresh produce.

STAT OF WEEK 38.5%

In the first quarter of 2026, foreclosures on homes in Spain belonging to individuals increased by 35.8 per cent, according to the INE.

Robotaxis hit the road

AS if driving in Spain wasn’t chaotic enough, self-driving robotaxis could soon be hitting the streets. Robotaxis are expected to begin operating across the country by the end of 2026 as Uber, which will invest an additional €430 million in the self-driving service, recently approved its first robotaxis in the Community of Madrid.

In the United States, autonomous vehicles are already up and running. Alphabet-owned Waymo has quickly become the leading robotaxi company in the US, but its rollout has not been without issues. Passengers have shared accounts of taxis driving erratically, running red lights, and stopping on train tracks and in the middle of busy intersections. As a result, thousands of vehicles have been recalled, and several lawsuits are pending.

One seemingly overlooked flaw is that robotaxis can’t close their

own door. To fix this inconvenience, companies are paying food delivery drivers to close the doors for them. One driver was reportedly paid €9.74, while another was offered up to €20 to do so.

But while delivery drivers are getting paid to close doors, what about taxi drivers? Driving is one of the largest employment categories in many counties, with a relatively low

barrier of entry. As of March 2026, 62,406 taxi licences and 24,764 VTC licences were registered in Spain. While robotaxis may be marginally cheaper for passengers, they could potentially wipe thousands of jobs. And with the majority of taxi drivers being self-employed, this could in turn impact consumer spending, tax revenues, and local economies across Spain.

Pay transparency

MANY job-seekers are currently applying for jobs, not knowing how much they’ll actually be earning if they succeed. In Spain, only 17 per cent of job listings are advertised with salary expectations included. Even once a salary is agreed upon, not everybody earns the same wage for the same work.

According to Eurostat, women’s gross hourly earnings are 11 per cent lower than men’s. ETUC estimates this costs women €4.8 billion a year - around €465 and €700 per woman. However, new EU rules aim to change that.

The Pay Transparency Directive that came into effect on Sunday June 7 promotes full pay transparency and shrinking the gender pay gap. It will ensure equal pay for equal work across the sexes, and make sure current and potential employees know the going rate for their role.

Lucrative trades

DURING the World Cup, collecting trading cards is just as important as the game itself. And just as lucrative. During the World Cup, upwards of 500 million sticker packets and around 35 million albums will be sold around the world. The urge to collect the full 2026 set will likely generate €1.4 billion. Morgan Stanley estimates the global collectibles industry to earn €86 billion annually as fans crave keep-sakes, even fans whose countries are absent from the tournament.

Several EU countries have already established legislation, but others have failed to meet the deadline.

Infrastructure improvement

DUE to immigration Spain is nearing a population of 50 million, with another 100 million tourists visiting annually, and now its infrastructure is crumbling, not prepared for the sudden expansion. The only way to improve is through investment. Estimates suggest €127 billion is needed for maintenance, and another €280 billion for new developments and improving existing infrastructure. However, public investment has been at an all time low, close to net-zero, since the 2010 debt crisis.

WIZZ Air is set to become the first low-budget European airline to provide inflight Wi-Fi. Having recently signed an agreement with Elon Musk’s Starlink, Wizz Air will beat industry leaders like Ryanair and easyJet to implement the technology, giving Wizz Air a market advantage. What has typically been treated as a luxury perk will be offered across Wizz Air’s entire fleet by 2027, although it’s yet unclear if this will be a free service or a paid add-on.

Staying sober

DRINKING is going out of style, at least among the younger generation. A recent study by the Spanish Ministry of Health found that there has been a reduction in regular alcohol consumption in the 15-24 age group. In the last 10 years, their alcohol consumption dropped from 43.8 per cent in 2006, to 17.9 per cent. Whether because they’re adopting healthier habits or simply saving money, Gen-Z staying sober is affecting corporations. AB InBev, Heineken, and Diageo reported declining sales volumes, with AB InBev falling for three consecutive years, including a 2.3 per cent drop in 2025, highlighting industry-wide challenges.

Travel data

Housing waitlists

THE waiting list for social housing in the UK is long, and there’s no sign of it going down anytime soon. In fact, the housing charity Shelter predicted it would take 119 years to shrink the list at the rate homes are being built. In 2025, 1.3 million households were on the waitlist, but only 12,198 homes were completed. The construction of new social rental homes has decreased by 64 per cent in the last 15 years. And not because people don’t need them. On the contrary, the number of homeless households living in temporary accommodation increased by 155 per cent.

BBVA Research’s first-quarter tourism data shows that Spain’s tourism activity is becoming more geographically diversified, with travellers increasingly choosing secondary destinations over traditional hotspots. Provinces such as Ciudad Real and Guadalajara recorded stronger domestic and international tourism activity, while Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia, La Rioja and Asturias saw notable increases in tourist spending. Although part of the spending growth reflects higher prices, transport, accommodation and hospitality sectors also expanded, indicating a real increase in tourist numbers.

3I Group 2.369,00 2.378,00 2.330,00 86K

Admiral Group 3.450,0 3.476,0 3.449,7 8,15K

Airtel Africa 368,00 374,20 368,00 60,45K

Anglo American 4.131,6 4.150,0 4.114,0 132,18K

Antofagasta 4.332,00 4.355,90 4.253,00 77,65K

Associated British Foods 1.967,5 1.974,0 1.959,6 30,09K

AstraZeneca 13.516,0 13.524,0 13.418,0 67,97K

Auto Trader Group Plc 470,60 473,80 470,60 146,34K

Aviva 629,40 634,97 629,20 394K

B M European Value Retail 197,02 201,20 196,70 162,31K

BAE Systems

1.884,50 1.920,75 1.863,50 927,59K

Barclays 484,15 488,55 482,80 2,71M

Barratt Redrow 255,10 257,00 251,90 275,2K

Beazley 1.283,00 1.283,50 1.282,50 40,09K

Berkeley 3.504,0 3.536,0 3.452,0 6,01K

BP 514,10 518,70 511,70 2,59M

British American Tobacco 4.618,0 4.640,0 4.600,0 74,27K

BT Group 206,70 210,00 206,30 418,22K

Bunzl 2.596,0 2.634,0 2.570,0 96,59K

Centrica 184,40 187,10 184,30 1,18M

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.620,0 4.636,0 4.596,0 9,64K Compass 34,56 34,60 34,04 41,21K ConvaTec Group 205,22 207,60 205,00 102,99K Croda Intl 3.130,0 3.138,0 3.084,0 13,19K DCC 6.160,0 6.195,0 6.150,0 11,07K Diageo 1.535,5 1.544,0 1.530,5 109,74K Diploma 7.025,00 7.051,02 6.970,00 7,73K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Pope in Spain

POPE LEO XIV’s visit to Spain was a resounding success. Not only did millions turn out to see him in person, filling the streets and football stadiums, but his visit generated approximately €120 million. Around €25 million was invested in the Pontiff’s seven-day tour around Spain, but his visit generated five times the cost.

Mobility costs

SPAIN’S public transport network is facing some serious challenges, and will reportedly need to generate €12 billion annually until 2030 to tackle them head on. One looming issue is the increase in passengers due to immigration and the continued tourism boom which creates the need for more mobility. Another is electrifying the fleet as sustainability becomes more of a priority.

Oil stockpile

IT’S human nature to hoard essentials, especially after a shortage, but experts warn that a rush to stockpile oil will only keep prices higher for longer. Almost 500 million barrels of crude oil needs to be replenished once the Strait of Hormuz reopens. This total grows by 5.8 million for every day it remains closed.

SpaceX stocks

AHEAD of its first IPO, SpaceX valued its shares at £100 each, skyrocketing the valuation of the firm to over a trillion dollars. SpaceX is hoping to raise £55 billion, a record IPO high. Whether shares sell for such a high amount waits to be seen. If they do, that will skyrocket SpaceX into becoming one of the most valuable companies in the world, and turn Musk into a trillionaire.

Britain’s dying industry

BRITAIN was once a foodie hotspot, but in recent years the scene has dropped off, and in some places disappeared entirely.

The hospitality sector is losing three establishments a day. Bars and restaurants are drowning under rising taxes, high overheads and production costs. The reinstatement of 20 per cent VAT and the abolishment of the 40 per cent business rate discount severely impacted restaurants that were only just recovering from the pandemic.

The USA-Israeli war is also exacerbating the problem as the cost of raw ingredients is forcing restaurants to choose between adapting the menu, upping the price or taking the loss.

It doesn’t help that wouldbe customers simply can’t afford to dine out. Money is

being spent on essentials or saved for a rainy day, not spent on eating out. Even if they wanted to, many can’t afford the high prices restaurants are chargeing to stay afloat.

Award-winning spots are just as susceptible to closure. Since 2021, London

Disney in debt

MORE than 30 years since the glittering gates of Disneyland Paris first opened its doors, and Disney is still in the black. A total of €5.7 billion has been invested in the park, but Disney has only recouped €3.6 billion.

The park has been victim to bad luck, with real world events impacting travel and decreasing visitor numbers. For example, its second park opened in 2002, in the wake of 9/11 when tourism was down. Visitor numbers also suffered following the 2016 Paris attack, Covid pandemic and now the USA-Israeli war.

That doesn’t mean it’s not a lucrative investment. Outside of the US, Disneyland Paris is the company’s most successful attraction, welcoming 15 million visitors annually. In 2025,

Youth poverty

LIVING costs are at an all-time high, and with wages not rising to match, one in three young people are at risk of poverty.

According to reports, 34 per cent of under-30s in Spain face poverty or social exclusion, while housing costs consume more than 40 per cent of income.

Average rents have risen by almost 13 per cent in a year, far outpacing salary growth. Youth unemployment also remains above 26 per cent, leaving many trapped in insecure or temporary work. Experts warn that without urgent action, financial insecurity among young people will continue to deepen.

has lost 24 of its 112 Michelin-starred restaurants. In total, Michelin-starred restaurants have reduced by more than 20 per cent across the whole of England and Wales since 2020.

With each closure, a whole cohort of staff is left unemployed from award-winning

Banking price hike

BANKING services are becoming more expensive as inflation rises. According to Asufin, Spanish bank fees for account and debit card maintenance increased by 10.84 per cent over the last three years. In 2021, major banks charged an average of €110 annually, but this year the average cost has risen to €167.27.

Irish expansion

chefs to busboys and front of house personnel. Hospitality has typically been a reliable entry-level job, a chance for young people to get their foot on the career ladder. But with establishments closing at an extreme rate, job security is feeling like a thing of the past.

the park generated a record €3.4 billion, beating every other non-US park.

What’s more, Disneyland Paris’ very existence promotes Disney’s products and movies, keeping the magic alive on and off screen.

Temporary employment

GETTING a job in the UK is becoming increasingly difficult, especially for young people. But even once they find employment, job security is not always guaranteed as many UK companies are only offering temporary contracts.

Additionally, the number of people working zero-hour contracts reached 1.23 million by 2026. While zero-hour contracts are not inherently temporary, there is no guaranteed minimum hours that employers can plan for, personally or financially.

The only sector with a high demand for permanent staff was in nursing, medical and care. Meanwhile, permanent job offers fell the most in retail.

Charity closure

THE British Heart Foundation is facing 150 shop closures over the next two years. Through a combination of rising costs, changing consumer habits and a decline in the high street retail scene, fundraising efforts through a physical shop network have become unsustainable. The number of staff impacted remains undisclosed.

SHEIN is strengthening its European logistics network by opening a new centre in Ireland. The move aims to improve delivery efficiency, support growing demand, and expand regional operations. The facility reflects Shein’s wider strategy to build local infrastructure and enhance its supply chain across Europe.

Minimum wage

SPAIN’S labour market is becoming increasingly low-paid, with one in three young workers earning minimum wage. Around 2.5 million employees receive the SMI (€1,180) while temporary contracts remain widespread. Economists warn that stagnant salaries and rising living costs are leaving younger generations with weaker purchasing power and fewer opportunities.

Regularisation effect

THE planned immigrant regularisation in Spain is expected to have only a limited effect on GDP growth in 2027. Studies suggest it may increase formal employment and tax contributions by 17 per cent, but the overall macroeconomic impact will be small, with only a marginal improvement in GDP.

Paid to live in paradise

VISITING the Italian Alps is a bucket list item for many. However, a recent appeal could see a handful of lucky individuals not only getting to go for free, but being paid to live there. The only catch? Being part of a research project. Eurac Research is interested in studying how average altitude in uences human health. As such, the company is seeking willing partici-

pants between the ages of 18 and 40 to take part in the study by moving to the Italian Alps. They’d live there, 2,500 metres above sea level, for a month. During that time, the Eurac team would monitor their physical well-being and study the e ects living at such an altitude has on their body. Participants would receive an all-expenses paid trip plus a €400 stipend.

TOPTrending

Spider Noir

AUDIENCES are invited back into the Spider-Verse, this time into the black and white world of Spider Noir. In this origin story, it’s not down on his luck Peter Parker who puts on the spidey mask, but rather down on his luck Ben Reilly, played by Nicholas Cage. Marvel’s newest series blends the hard-boiled detective narrative with

web-slinging action, and feels at once innovative and comfortably familiar.

Not Suitable for Work

WHILE not yet comparable as a modern-day version of Friends, Not Suitable for Work is the first comedy released in a while to have the potential of reaching such highs. The series follows a cast of recent graduates who are all played by unknown up and comers. In every episode, laughs feel earned and the story feels authentic to the experience of twenty-something’s just

trying to survive one of the most tumultuous times.

Fence comes down

CONSTRUCTION crews have begun dismantling frontier structures in Gibraltar ahead of historic border changes. The visible works signal major transformations before a provisional EU-UK agreement takes

e ect on Tuesday, July 15, 2026. The current phase reshapes daily crossings. Workers have fenced o shelters near the Verja and prepared materials for removal. To keep the crossing open during the day, planners scheduled temporary night-time tra c diversions between 9pm and 6am.

Vehicles must divert through the goods access towards Eastgate, redirecting ows to the Kingsway Tunnel, the airport, or Four Corners. Outbound tra c follows the same route via the Eastgate roundabout. Pedestrian access at Four Corners remains uninterrupted.

Spanish authorities plan parallel dismantling on the La Linea side, where a coun-

cil plot will widen the road linking customs to airport facilities. Once the fence is removed, routine physical checks at the land border will end, moving controls to Gibraltar Airport and Port. This change should provide quicker daily commutes for roughly 15,000 frontier workers. Adjustments will accompany the uid movement. Spanish residents employed in Gibraltar will pay taxes in Spain.

Additionally, whilst businesses anticipate smoother goods ows, Gibraltar will introduce a 15 per cent transaction tax. These developments look set to conclude years of post-Brexit uncertainty, opening a new chapter for cross-border life.

Credit: Luis Alabares X

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol Mercadona breaks tradition

SPANISH supermarket chain Mercadona is breaking with tradition by opening selected branches on Sundays and extending its evening hours during the busy holiday season. The company, which has historically remained closed on Sundays and bank holidays, is introducing the changes to keep pace with competitors such as Lidl and Aldi.

From Saturday, June 22 until Sunday, August 30, affected stores will operate under a summer timetable, trading from 9am until 10pm. This adds an extra half an hour to the usual closing time of 9.30pm. Management introduced the shift to respond to altered summer buying patterns, as holidaymakers and families frequently make later grocery trips during the warmer months.

The Sunday trading rules and extended hours apply only to coastal branches with high visitor numbers or strong local demand. Costa del Sol locations include Estepona, Fuengirola, Malaga, Manilva, Marbella, Mijas and Torremolinos.

Axarquia

Malaga land for €1

PROPERTY developers can snap up valuable buildable land rights in Rincon de la Victoria through a new online auction starting at a symbolic €1. The relaunch on specialist platform Escrapalia follows a previous round last month that failed to attract any bids at a starting price of over €33,000.

Auctioneers value the asset, tied to Finca Registral 3219 in the Los Algarrobos sector of Malaga Province, at €63,700. The rights cover more than 360 square metres of floor area dedicated entirely to free housing, with no social housing quota. This status increases its appeal compared to other zones on the coast. Authorities handled the portion through economic reparcelling because the original 1,796-square-metre plot fell short of the minimum size for an independent site.

The successful bidder will assume proportional urbanisation costs estimated at over €33,700. The bidding window closes at 12.30pm, Tuesday, July 7. Interested buyers must register on Escrapalia and provide an €8,000 guarantee deposit.

Mallorca

Radiothon raises €13,004

MALLORCA’S English-speaking community has once again shown its generosity after Wave Mallorca’s annual Radiothon raised €13,004 during a 36-hour live broadcast - with organisers expecting the total to climb further as donations remain open for another week.

The fundraising marathon took place on June 5 and 6, bringing together listeners, local businesses and volunteers from across the island. Led by Wave Mallorca founder and breakfast show host Richie Prior, the event featured live entertainment, song requests, raffles, auctions and fundraising challenges designed to encourage donations throughout the broadcast.

Broadcast continuously from 7am on Thursday until 7pm on Friday, the Radiothon supported a number of causes, including the children’s ward at Son Espases Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Cancer Support Mallorca, Yachting Gives Back and the 6 Points Cycling Challenge initiative.

Costa Blanca South Purple power

A SEA of purple filled the streets of Elche on Sunday morning, June 14, as 1,380 runners and walkers took part in the city’s first-ever Race of the Cities Against Pancreatic Cancer.

Participants gathered in Plaça de Baix before setting off on the 4.5-kilometre route through some of Elche’s best-known landmarks, including the Palmeral and the banks of the River Vinalopó.

The event raised funds for pancreatic cancer research, with all proceeds going towards leading research projects aimed at tackling one of the deadliest forms of cancer.

According to organisers, more than 10,000 people in Spain are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year and only around 10 per cent survive beyond five years.

Participants travelled from across Spain to take part, with competitors arriving from locations including Valladolid, Villajoyosa, Aspe and San Vicente.

Almeria Medieval Mojacar

MOJACAR underwent an incredible transformation at the weekend when colourful banners were strung from facades, knights rode on horseback and local residents ditched their 21st century clothes for elaborate Medieval costumes. Mojacar celebrated its Moors and Christians festivities in style, in what has become one of the most anticipated weekends of the year,

For over 30 years, Mojacar has gone all out on its annual celebrations. The festival has garnered attention, not just for honouring the town’s history, but for fostering strong community ties, no matter religious relief.

In honour of the celebrations, the townspeople dressed accordingly in detailed costumes inspired by Arab, Christian and Goya styles. It wasn’t just the home-grown locals who took part. Members of Mojacar’s thriving expat community were eager to participate and marched proudly alongside their neighbours in honour of the town that has become their home.

Costa Blanca North 88k pints predicted

BENIDORM’S bars and pubs are preparing for a beer sales boom during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with hospitality leaders predicting that as much as 50,000 litres could be poured in a single day during the tournament’s biggest matches.

The figure, revealed by local hospitality association ABRECA, is the equivalent of almost 88,000 pints and highlights the huge impact football is expected to have on the resort’s food and drink trade this summer.

More than 500 bars, restaurants and entertainment venues across Benidorm are expected to screen matches throughout the tournament. According to ABRECA, the average establishment typically serves around 80 litres of beer per day, but demand rises sharply when major international fixtures are taking place.

Across the resort, beer consumption is expected to reach around 40,000 litres on a normal World Cup match day, climbing to as much as 50,000 litres during the semi-finals and final.

PETS

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15 Million Pets

SPAIN has published its first comprehensive national data on domestic animals, revealing more than 15 million pets living in households across the country. Dogs and cats dominate the figures, with approximately 7.56 million dogs and 5.62 million cats accounting for the vast majority of registered animals. Smaller species such as rabbits, birds, reptiles and other exotic pets make up the remaining population.

The data shows a 14 per cent increase in pet ownership since 2021, with regional concentrations highest in Andalucia, followed by Cataluña, Madrid and the Valencian Community. Despite rising ownership, Spain continues to face high levels of animal abandonment. Around 292,000 dogs and cats were collected by shelters or rescue services in 2024, averaging roughly 800 animals per day. Animal welfare organisations warn that numbers remain persistently high, particularly during the summer months

when abandonment rates typically rise due to travel and housing pressures.

Spain’s 2023 Animal Welfare Law introduced stricter identification requirements, breeding controls and penalties for neglect, aiming to improve standards nationwide. However, enforcement

progress, while charities call for stronger enforcement and funding. Overall, the data highlights both the growing popularity of pet ownership and the ongoing challenge of managing abandonment and ensuring adequate welfare systems across Spain nationally to-

Summer relaxation

IF your cat seems even sleepier than usual during summer, there is usually no need to worry. Cats naturally spend a large part of the day resting, but warmer weather can make them even more relaxed and less active.

During hot temperatures, cats often conserve their energy to avoid overheating. Instead of racing around the house or exploring outdoors, many prefer stretching out in cool, shaded spots and enjoying long naps throughout the day. This behaviour is completely normal and is similar to how people sometimes feel slower and more tired in the heat.

You may notice your cat choosing tiled floors,

shady corners or breezy windowsills to rest. Some cats also become more active during cooler mornings and evenings while avoiding movement during the hottest part of the afternoon. Although extra sleep in summer is common, owners should still watch for signs of heat exhaustion. Heavy panting, drooling, vomiting or unusual weakness should never be ignored and may require veterinary advice. To help your cat stay comfortable, provide plenty of fresh water, keep rooms cool and allow access to quiet resting areas. A calm, cool environment will help your cat stay happy, healthy and relaxed all summer long.

CLASSIFIEDS

CHARITY

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WE ARE currently the market leader in our country in the sale of direct car, motorbike, home and company fleet insurance. Since we started out in 1995, our philosophy has always been to offer an excellent service with the best prices in the market. For the most competitive quotes in English, call Linea Directa on 952 147 834. (200726)

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MOTORING

MG HS Hybrid+ - an irresistible choice?

By Mark Slack ROAD TEST

WITH the news that Spain has benefited over the original home of MG for the company’s first return to Europe it seems a good point to have a look at one of MG’s best selling models. With few exceptions the MG HS Hybrid+ ticks every box you could want for a spacious, comfortable, well equipped and value for money SUV.

The HS range offers petrol, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid power options with the base of a 1.5-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine. There’s six-speed manual, DCT seven-speed auto and a sophisticated two-speed automatic gearbox that works with the electric motor on the hybrid models. Lots of choice and cleverly offering something for everyone whether you’re an EV fan, a halfway house PHEV or HEV or a dyedin-the-wool petrol driver.

Two trim levels in the Hybrid+ - SE and Trophy - with lots of standard equipment on both models and prices starting from €38,142/£29,495. Navigation, Apple CarPlay and An-

droid Auto, rear privacy glass, rear view camera, LED lights, power driver’s seat, powered and heated door mirrors, adaptive cruise control and auto lights and wipers. Move up to the €37,079/£31,995 Trophy and the list grows even longer.

The practicality of the HS is excellent with big ticks in the headroom, legroom front and rear, oddment stowage plus luggage space. It’s also a very nice place to be and in Trophy form you can specify a tan interior that has 12/10 in the looks department.

Plenty of adjustment means most drivers should find a comfortable po-

A royal auction

EVERYBODY, even those not alive at the time, can picture the moment Princess Diana stepped out in her black, off-the-shoulder “revenge dress.” It was a jaw-dropping moment that has since been immortalised in public memory. And now, a key object from that iconic day is up for sale as collectors and car enthusiasts can bid on the prized Jaguar that Princess Diana emerged from 32 years ago.

Jaguar is one of the main car suppliers for the royal family, and the green Jaguar XJ40 Sovereign was presumably a favourite of Princess Diana’s. She was regularly seen riding in the vehicle between March 1994

and February 1997 until it left the royal fleet and was acquired by a private buyer.

The vintage vehicle has beige leather upholstery and still holds discreet signs from its royal past. A button marked “Security” is engraved in the central armrest storage cubby, a quirk found in all cars carrying royalty.

Admittedly, it’s the car’s connection to the late Princess Diana that makes this such a noteworthy sale to both collectors and royal enthusiasts. Without its passenger history, the car would be worth around £5,000, nowhere near the £100,000 auctioneers expect it to sell for.

sition and the seating is extremely comfortable.

The only downside - as with so many cars - is the fact there is too much touchscreen and not enough physical buttons. The touchscreen in the HS is also a little slow to respond. This was an issue with the first MGs and I thought they had resolved it but it seems to have reappeared.

On the road the Hybrid+ is a delight with firm but sufficiently compliant suspension, refined and smooth power delivery thanks to the amalgam of petrol and electric power and sufficient performance to pass slower traffic with alacrity.

Facts at a Glance

• Model: MG HS Hybrid+ Trophy

• Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbocharged petrol with hybrid electric developing a combined 224PS

• Gears: 2-speed automatic

• Price: €37,079/£31,995

• Performance: 0-100kph/62mph in 7.9 secs, maximum speed 190kph/118mph

• Economy: 5.5 l/100km –51.3mpg combined

• Emissions: 126 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets

The HS Hybrid+, especially with the right colour choice and that Trophy model tan interior looks a far more expensive car than it is in reality. Even in lead-in SE form it’s a great purchase for anyone looking at family transport or outdoor pursuits. It may not hold its value to the degree European rivals will, but looking at the initial price and the package as a whole it’s an almost irresistible choice.

Flashing brake lights

FROM July 7, all new cars registered in the European Union, including in Spain, must include a set of advanced safety systems, and one of the most visible changes will be flashing brake lights. When a vehicle brakes sharply, its rear lights will blink rapidly instead of staying steady, giving drivers behind a clearer and more urgent warning.

The goal is to reduce one of the most common types of accidents: rear-end collisions. Standard brake lights do not always show how hard a driver is braking, which can lead to delayed reactions. Flashing lights aim to make emergency braking more obvious, giving following drivers an extra moment to respond and potentially avoid a crash or reduce its severity.

This feature is part of a wider safety package that will become mandatory on all new vehicles from that date. Other required systems include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, driver fatigue warnings, intelligent speed assistance and

Flashing brake lights will become mandatory in new EU cars from July.

event data recorders. Some cars already include these technologies, but they will now be standard across all new models.

The rules apply only to newly registered vehicles, meaning existing cars do not need to be modified.

The transition will happen gradually as newer vehicles replace older ones on the road.