Costa Calida 26 March – 1 April 2026 Issue 2125

Floral tribute

Cartagena kicks off Semana Santa

NEARLY 2,000 people will take part in Cartagena’s traditional floral offering to the Virgen de la Caridad on Friday, March 27, marking the emotional start of Semana Santa in the city.

Participants from dozens of local groups, associations, and brotherhoods are expected to join the procession on Viernes de Dolores, one of the most important dates in Cartagena’s calendar.

The event will begin in the afternoon, with participants walking through the city centre toward the Basilica of the Virgen de la Caridad, where the floral tribute will take place.

Time travel festival

LOS ALCAZARES is preparing to step back in time as the 25th Incursiones Berberiscas return this April, transforming the Mar Menor town into a vibrant stage of history, colour, and spectacle. Over four days, streets usually defined by coastal calm will become a medieval setting filled with music, theatre, and movement, drawing both residents and visitors.

Each group will carry flowers as part of a collective offering to the city’s patron, creating a colourful, and symbolic procession through the streets.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the event holds strong cultural and emotional significance for residents. For

Record-breaking run

Fastest 5K in the region

LOS ALCAZARES has made regional athletics history after its annual 5K race recorded the fastest time ever seen over the distance in the Region of Murcia.

The fifth 5K Villa de Los Alcazares, held on Sunday March 22, delivered a standout performance, with the race winner finishing in just over 14 minutes, setting a new regional benchmark for the 5,000-metre distance.

The event continues to grow in prominence, attracting competitive runners and strengthening its

position within the regional athletics calendar. Organisers highlighted both the high level of participation and the increasingly competitive standard of the race.

The flat coastal route, running through the town near the Mar Menor, is known for producing fast times, and this year’s result reinforces its reputation.

Local authorities praised the event, noting its role in promoting sport and showcasing Los Alcazares as a destination for athletic events. 24

many, it represents the moment when Semana Santa truly begins, bringing together tradition, faith, and community.

Cartagena’s Holy Week is widely recognised as one of

the most distinctive in Spain, known for its organisation, atmosphere, and strong local participation. The floral offering sets the tone for the days ahead as the city shifts its rhythm.

At the heart of the event is its immersive atmosphere. The town recreates the era when Berber pirates raided these shores, still reflected in landmarks like Torre del Rame. Rather than simply commemorating history, Los Alcazares turns its streets into a dynamic space of reenactments, performances, and cultural storytelling designed for all ages.

Visitors can explore medieval markets across the town centre, featuring artisan goods, food, and crafts. Performances unfold continuously, from concerts to theatrical shows, ensuring activity in every corner throughout the day. The festival continues to strengthen Los Alcazares’ cultural identity. Highlights include parades, historical reenactments, and themed camps representing different cultures. Music and live performances extend into the evening, creating a lively festival atmosphere. The event has grown significantly, attracting thousands and becoming a key date in the Costa Calida calendar.

Golf day success

ANOTHER excellent day unfolded at La Serena Golf Club as members enjoyed near-perfect conditions. Early winds were unpredictable but eventually subsided, leaving the course in immaculate condition thanks to Miguel and his dedicated team.

Appreciation was also extended to Karolina and Tamara in the shop for their readiness to assist at every turn. Duly and Yolanda ensured the facilities were spotless, while Vanessa, Leila, and the kitchen staff kept players refreshed with popular bocadillos. Michael and Felipe maintained smooth play throughout, and Camillus, Terry, and Henry organised competitions so efficiently that participants could simply arrive on the tee. Captain Susy oversaw the prize presentations for the

day’s winners. March’s medal results were competitive: Clive Jenkins and Pavla Serekova topped Category I with 72, Darren Strugnell and Pat Coyne led Category II with 74, and Ian Sadler and Julie Haworth shared the Category III win with 70. Crystal’s event on March 8 saw Bob Smith claim first in Category I with 38 points, while Jim Fegan led Category II with

38. On March 15, Nick Shaw scored 40 points to top Category I, and Pat Baker also reached 41 in Category II.

The Club Championship final saw John O’Brien secure the overall title by just two shots, narrowly edging Denis McCormack and Alan Campbell. Congratulations to all participants and organisers for making the events run seamlessly.

Airport becomes science hub

THE former San Javier airport is set for a new scientific future through the OM2 Centre for Conservation and Recovery of Mar Menor Species, a project the regional government has described as a first-rate research complex for the recovery of the lagoon ecosystem. The initiative also aims to position the region as a reference point for marine ecosystem restoration in southern Europe.

The future centre will be based in the old terminal infrastructure and is designed to study the full life cycle of Mar Menor species under controlled conditions, improve conservation protocols, and increase the chances of successful reintroduction into the natural environment.

The regional government says the project will include specialist laboratories and tanks dedicated to marine and asso-

ciated species, building on earlier plans to transform the disused airport into a biodiversity and conservation facility.

President Fernando Lopez Miras presented the initiative as a strategic investment tied directly to the long-term restoration of the Mar Menor, with scientific work intended to generate applied knowledge for environmental management.

The centre is also expected to bring together universities and research institutions linked to marine science in the region.

For Costa Calida, the project represents an unusual but significant transformation of a redundant airport site into a flagship environmental research asset linked to one of Murcia’s most sensitive ecological challenges.

Family pension boost

EXTRA

FOREIGN residents working in Spain over 45 may wish to explore a lesser-known Social Security option. In 2026, authorities are highlighting the possibility of making voluntary additional contributions to strengthen the “pensión en favor de familiares” - a pension paid to certain relatives if the contributor passes away while still working.

The scheme is not new, but Spain’s Social Security system is now promoting it more clearly as a way to protect financially dependent family members. For expatriates who have built their lives and careers in Spain, it offers an extra layer of security for relatives living in the same household.

The pensión en favor de familiares supports family members reliant on a worker’s income. If an eligible contribu-

tor dies, certain dependants may receive a pension based on the contribution record. Foreign residents with a valid NIE who pay into the system - through employment or as self-employed - accumulate rights like Spanish nationals.

From age 45, contributors can make extra monthly payments to increase the contribution base used to calculate this pension. Eligible beneficiaries include children or grandchildren with little or no income, adult children with disabilities, and dependent parents or close relatives in the same household.

Authorities emphasise the option as more international families now live permanently in Spain, and not all are covered by home-country pensions.

Clocks spring forward on Sunday, March 29. At 2.00am, the time will jump directly to 3.00am.

Gas bottle prices

Costs climb steadily

SPANISH households face immediate financial pressure following a sharp increase in the price of butane canisters. Effective from Tuesday, March 17, the standard 12.5kg bottle now costs €16.35, representing a rise of 77 cents or 4.9 per cent from the January level. This adjustment, published in the Official State Gazette, hit the maximum 5 per cent cap permitted under Spanish regulated pricing rules.

Geopolitical instability from the ongoing conflict in Iran is the primary driver behind the hike. Authorities report that maritime freight costs have surged by 16.6 per cent, while the raw material prices for propane and butane rose by 3.2 per cent. A slight strengthening of the euro against the dollar was insufficient to offset these inflationary pressures on global supply chains.

Millions of residents, particularly in rural areas and older urban properties without natural gas connections, rely on these orange canisters for essential heating and cooking. While the bimonthly review system is designed to cushion consumers from extreme volatility, the current trend suggests strong upward momentum.

As of Thursday, March 19, regulated natural gas tariffs have also begun to reflect upward pressure. With the next price evaluation scheduled for mid-May, consumer groups warn that further increases are likely if political tensions continue to disrupt energy markets and logistics.

SPAIN is preparing to lose an hour of sleep as the clocks move forward on Sunday, March 29.

According to the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), the official shift occurs at 02.00am, when the time jumps straight to 03.00am across the mainland and Balearics. While this signals the welcome arrival of brighter spring evenings, the 23hour day often leaves residents feeling the pinch of fatigue.

This transition follows a strictly regulated EU-wide calendar. For those living in Spain, the spring

Clock change debate euroweeklynews.com

adjustment is traditionally more disruptive than the autumn return to winter time, with studies linking the sudden loss of rest to temporary sleep disturbances.

The current schedule, formalised in a government order covering 2022 to 2026, has sparked renewed debate. Because the official decree only lists dates until October 2026, some speculate this could be among the final seasonal shifts. However, any permanent change requires a consensus across the European Union that

has proven elusive. Member sta tes remain divided on whether to adopt permanent summer or win ter time, leaving Spain in a holding pattern.

For now, residents should prepare for the ‘jet lag’ effect that usually lingers for a few days. If you have travel plans or appointments during the last weekend in March, double-check boo kings to ensure that missing hour doesn’t catch you out.

Blood drive boost

LOS ALCAZARES is preparing for a vital community event as the town hosts a blood donation session on Friday, March 27, in connection with the 25th anniversary of the Incursiones Berberiscas.

The campaign, organised by the town hall in partnership with the Centro Regional de Hemodonación, will run from 17.00 to 21.00 in the town hall. Its aim is to strengthen local blood reserves and raise awareness of the crucial role donations play in saving lives.

Participants must bring a valid DNI. The session will also provide information about bone marrow donation, focusing on individuals aged 18 to 40. This age group is particularly important for expanding the registry of potential donors and increasing the chan-

ce of helping patients in need.

This initiative forms part of the anniversary celebrations of the Incursiones Berberiscas, adding a practical, life-saving component to the commemorations.

“Your blood is always

needed and can save lives,” said organisers, urging residents to take part in this campaign.

With a focus on solidarity and community involvement, the event invites all residents to make a difference with a simple act of giving.

Murcia launches Easter transport

MURCIA City Council has activated a special mobility, traffic and public transport plan ahead of Semana Santa and the Spring Festival, introducing a package of measures designed to reduce congestion and improve access during one of the busiest periods of the year.

The plan includes free public transport on April 7 and April 11, as well as free use of park-and-ride facilities from March 25 to April 12. Officials have also added 404 extra parking spaces through the incorporation of the Hacienda car park, while shuttle services will connect key points of the city with the main festive areas, particularly around the Malecón.

Traffic diversions and road closures will also be put in place, with signage

and coordinated monitoring intended to minimise disruption for residents and visitors. Murcia says the objective is not only to guarantee safety during events that attract large crowds, but also to encourage more sustainable travel choices at a time when city-centre pressure rises sharply.

The measures come as the municipality prepares for a period that regularly draws hundreds of thousands of people and includes internationally recognised religious and festive celebrations. The special plan is expected to remain in force throughout the main holiday period as visitor numbers continue to increase. Authorities have advised residents to plan journeys and use public transport where possible to avoid delays.

New pedestrian link

A 2.1-KILOMETRE stretch of pavement is about to complete a continuous pedestrian route along La Manga del Mar Menor, connecting the recently built sports park to Veneziola.

The mayor of San Javier, José Miguel Luengo, visited the site to inspect progress. He explained that the new section will allow uninterrupted pedestrian access across the full length of La Manga.

The works feature a pavement between two and 2.3 metres wide, fully illuminated for safety. Completion is expected within a month. The total investment amounts to €637,502.75, funded through the Sustainable Tourism Plan for San Javier, part of Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, supported by the EU Next Generation programme.

Mayor Luengo also highlighted the use of permeable paving to improve rainwater drainage along the Gran Vía. Public lighting along the route is designed to increase safety for both pedestrians and vehicles.

Local o cials joining the visit included tourism councillor Estíbaliz Masegosa and La Manga’s local mayor José Guerrero. The mayor con rmed that further improvement works are planned in La Manga.

New cultural routes

CARTAGENA Puerto de Culturas is expanding its spring programme with two fresh activities that explore the city’s history through food, theatre, and guided tours.

The first, Carthago Nova: Roma y Sabores, is a gourmet walking route that visits the Museo del Teatro Romano and the Museo del Foro Romano Molinete. Participants will learn about the city’s role in Mediterranean trade during Roman times, hearing stories of merchants and the goods that arrived at Carthago Nova’s ports.

The experience concludes at the Foro Romano with a tasting of

ancient-inspired flavours such as exotic perfumes, olive oil, spiced wines, garum, and salted fish, prepared by Casa Tomás. Tours take place on March 28, 31, and April 1, 11, 18, and 25 at 10.30, cost is €25.

The second activity, Teo y la leyenda de la primera sirena, is a family-friendly theatrical tour. Five actors tell a humorous adventure as archaeologist Teo, the fearless Sara, a comical mummy, and a chaotic

bus driver try to protect the sirens’ magical song. The route covers the Roman Theatre, the city’s bus tour, and the Punic Wall. Performances are on Sunday March 29, and every Sunday in April and May except April 5, starting at 11.30, costing €18 with a 50 per cent discount for Carné Club holders.

More information and tickets are available at www.puertodeculturas.car tagena.es.

Mar Menor based game

A NEW board game publisher has entered the Spanish market with a title inspired by one of the country’s most recognisable coastal areas. Flamenco Games has announced the release of its first game, Tesoros del Mar Menor, aimed at families and small groups.

The company describes the project as a blend of entertainment, nature and local identity, drawing directly on the setting of the Mar Menor lagoon. According to official details, the game is designed for between two and five players, suitable for ages eight and above, with sessions lasting between 15 and 25 minutes.

Flamenco Games says it was founded to create accessible and engaging play experiences with a clear regional focus. Its debut title reflects that aim, positioning itself both as a family pastime and as a gift linked to the area’s identity.

Tesoros del Mar Menor centres on a light, fast-moving format intended to appeal to mixed-age groups. The publisher has indicated that future projects will continue to explore themes connected to history, nature and local identity.

The Mar Menor itself, a coastal lagoon in the Region of Murcia, has been the focus of numerous initiatives tied to conservation, culture and leisure. The game seeks to draw on that connection as part of its theme. Further information is available via the official website www.tesorosdel marmenor.com .

Brits still top expats

DESPITE political turbulence, the British dream of retiring to the Spanish coast remains as strong as ever.

Recent threats from Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez regarding a ‘supertax’ on nonEU homebuyers appear to have stalled.

Experts confirmed the 100 per cent property tax proposal lacked the parliamentary support required to become law, with industry leaders dismissing the rhetoric as ‘political posturing’.

Spain’s property market continues to defy European trends, reaching sales highs not seen since before the 2008 financial crisis.

Domestic transactions rose by 10 per cent in early 2025, while foreign purchases grew by 2 per cent. Affordability has been bolstered by stabilising mortgage rates, which now sit between 2 and 3 per cent for fixed terms.

British buyers remain the leading foreign investor group, closely followed by the Dutch and Germans.

While major cities like Madrid and Barcelona attract significant capital, coastal hotspots such as Alicante, Malaga, and Altea remain the primary draw for those seeking relocation.

Although prices have risen significantly since the 1990s, the combination of a welcoming culture and a high quality of life sustains the market’s appeal.

For many, the Mediterranean lifestyle outweighs the complexities of post-Brexit visas.

Learning all the rules

BRITISH holidaymakers heading to Spain for Semana Santa face a sharp reminder to respect local customs or risk fines of up to €750. As celebrations run from Sunday, March 29 to Sunday, April 5, authorities in regions like Andalucia are enforcing strict by-laws to protect the solemnity of Holy Week.

The crackdown follows years of disruption caused by overtourism. In cities such as Sevilla, Malaga, and Granada, historic centres will close for processions.

Visitors must avoid crossing through religious parades; stewards will only allow passage when floats, or pasos, have come to a complete halt.

Dress codes are equally stringent.

While coastal temperatures rise, wearing bikinis or walking shirtless in town centres is

prohibited. To enter churches or view processions, shoulders and knees should be covered.

Even footwear is regulated; driving in flip-flops remains illegal nationwide, carrying penalties of up to €200.

Anti-social behaviour is also under fire. New outdoor bans mean vaping or smoking in public spaces can trigger fines reaching €2,000, while ‘sunbed hogging’

in Valencia results in €250 penalties. Public drinking and ‘balcony antics’ may lead to immediate hotel eviction. Spanish officials stress these measures balance tourism with cultural preservation. By swapping beachwear for smart-casual attire and observing silence during parades, tourists can enjoy the festivities without an expensive legal lesson.

Spain’s happiest town

MALAGA has been crowned Spain’s happiest city for 2026, according to the latest Spain Happy Index from Sonneil Homes. The study, released on Thursday, March 19, to coincide with the International Day of Happiness, evaluated over 8,000 areas based on climate, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Malaga secured the top spot with a near-perfect score of 91.36 out of 100. The city boasts approximately 320 sunny days a year, an average temperature of 18°C, and excellent international transport links. Almeria followed closely in second place with 90.88 points, favoured for its remarkably low rainfall. Ibiza claimed third, scoring 90.86, while Alicante ranked fourth.

The index highlights a clear trend: coastal locations dominate the leaderboard. Medi-

terranean destinations like Tarragona and Cadiz performed strongly, while major hubs also fared well. Barcelona scored 86.90 and Madrid reached 83.13, proving that comprehensive service networks contribute significantly to resident satisfaction alongside the weather.

Smaller municipalities on the Costa del Sol also shone. Torremolinos, Fuengirola, and Benalmadena all recorded high scores, with Marbella noted for having only 19 rainy days annually. Andrés Pedrera, CEO of Sonneil Homes, noted that true well-being stems from a combination of environmental factors and high-quality services. Whether in bustling capitals or serene seaside towns, Spain’s infrastructure and sunshine continue to offer a superior standard of daily living.

War hits shopper pockets

HOUSEHOLDS in Spain are facing a sharp spike in grocery bills as the escalating Middle East conflict drives up global fuel and energy costs. Supermarket prices in Spain rose by 1.53 per cent over the last month, marking the steepest increase since June 2025, according to the latest survey by the consumer organisation OCU.

The impact was felt almost immediately. On Monday, March 2, shoppers at major chains including Mercadona, Carrefour, and Lidl noticed price hikes on basic goods before fresh supplies had even arrived.

Fresh produce has been hit hardest; fruit and vegetable prices soared by 5.78 per cent, with bagged salads jumping 22 per cent. Meat and dairy followed closely, with steaks and cheese rising by up to 9 per cent. These increa-

SPRING officially arrived in the Northern Hemisphere on Friday, March 20, at 2.46pm CET. As the vernal equinox passes, Europe prepares for longer days and a burst of seasonal colour, though the immediate forecast remains mixed.

The season promises several celestial highlights with

ses mean food prices are now 35.5 per cent higher than three years ago.

While fish and cleaning products saw marginal price drops, the overall trend is concerning.

In response, the OCU is urging the Spanish government to slash VAT on basic foods from 4 per cent to zero. They are specifically calling for meat and fish to be included in these measures to support the 40 per cent of families currently struggling with food costs. With shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz under threat, experts warn that energy volatility may continue to drive up the cost of living.

First days of spring

three distinct full moons.

The ‘Pink Moon’ arrives on Thursday, April 2, followed by the ‘Flower Moon’ on Friday, May 1. The season concludes with a rare ‘Blue Moon’ on Sunday, May 31, a phenomenon occurring only once every two and a half

years when two full moons fall within a single calendar month.

Terrestrial conditions have been more turbulent. A weather trough moved from north to south on Monday, March 23, which brought cloud and rain to the Mediterranean. Regions including Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearics expected showers, with heavier bursts possible in the Pyrenees.

Temperatures remain modest. Coastal areas like Barcelona and Palma will see daytime highs of 15°C to 16°C, while Malaga may reach 19°C. Despite this cool start, meteorologists predict anticyclonic conditions will soon dominate, bringing settled, sunnier spells across the continent. While dramatic heat is not yet forecast, the increasing daylight and clearer skies signal a steady transition into the warmer months. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the early blossoms and astronomical displays as nature begins its annual renewal.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Audi’s resilience

TARIFFS have knocked automotive profits, yet despite the difficulties Audi closed the fiscal year with a €4.6 billion net profit, a 10.2 per cent increase. However, operating profit and margins declined. Electric vehicle sales helped maintain revenue, prompting Audi to further focus on developing its electric division.

Big pay day

WARNER BROS. Discovery

CEO David Zaslav is set for a big pay day, receiving more than €600m if Paramount Skydance’s full acquisition succeeds. The deal, valued at about €101 billion (around €26 per share), would trigger one of the largest executive compensation packages in media history.

Energy deal

THE UK Chancellor secured a £240 million investment from Spanish firm Exolum to boost UK energy resilience and jobs, and deepened economic cooperation with Spain. Agreements included easier travel for British service professionals and mutual recognition of professional qualifications, part of efforts to strengthen ties with Europe and support trade growth.

Illegal bets

AS one of the biggest horse racing events, Cheltenham festival typically attracts £1 billion annually. However, according to the BGC, approximately £60 million was illegally staked during the 2026 edition. An estimated £2 million per race was bet with illegal operators, representing 6 per cent of all wagers.

Meta lay-offs

AS Meta continues to invest in AI, pledging more than €500 billion to building data centres, the tech giant is preparing to lay off upwards of 16,000 employees. Department heads have reportedly been told to prepare cost-cutting plans as the company looks to reduce its workforce by 20 per cent.

77.8 %

of European internet users made online purchases in 2025, according to Eurostat.

War metal’s surge

HOUSEHOLDS worldwide are feeling the strain of rising prices amidst conflict in the Middle East. In addition to everyday household items doubling in price, critical military materials are also experiencing a price hike, including tungsten.

Tungsten is a highly valued heavy metal, its properties especially well-suited for the defence sector. In addition to having the highest tensile strength and lowest vapour pressure of any material on the periodic table, tungsten also has a high melting point and radiation shielding properties. With a diverse range of possible applications, tungsten is a valuable tool to any army.

As sought after as tungsten is, it is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to acquire. Its complex extraction process limits production, with China and

Russia being the primary producers. China controls 80 per cent of the tungsten market, but restricted trade in February 2025, causing a massive shortage. China’s dominance plus high demand amongst a worldwide shortage has caused prices to rise by more than 520 per cent. European prices, for example, reached €2,250 per metric ton, an extraordinary 115 per cent in-

Generational strain

A RECENT report by Centre for Social Justice found current British primary schoolchildren won’t be eligible for a pension until age 75. A collapsing birth rate and rising life expectancy means the government won’t be able to maintain the current worker to pensioner ratio.

The current UK birth rate is at an all-time low with the UK’s total fertility rate falling to 1.41 children per woman in 2024. This drop is not due to family sizes shrinking, but rather many women who want children not being able to do so due to economic and social challenges.

There are currently 13 million people over 65-years-old. That number is expected to rise to 17 million by 2043. The British population must grow by an additional 250,000 babies per year to bridge the ‘birth gap’. Without this, experts believe

Food sector thrives

SPAIN’S agri-food sector has overcome significant challenges - international instability, tariffs, rising production coststo reach €78 billion in revenue. This marks a 2.6 per cent increase from 2024, and a 73 per cent rise over the past decade. Fruit exports climbed from €11 billion to €11.9 billion and vegetable exports totalled €9.4 billion. Meanwhile, international meat sales reached €10.5 billion despite African Swine Fever disruption. Notably, Spain’s most prominent exports, olive oil and wine, declined.

crease compared to the €345 price point of the previous year. Spain produces only 700 tons of tungsten per year, far below China’s 67,000. However, many experts suggest there’s potential for Spain to supply up to 13 per cent of the world’s tungsten supply outside of China. As one of the few tungsten-producing regions in the world Spain could be in a prime position.

the younger generation will be burdened with the financial cost of an ageing population.

Every day debt

OWING debt on essential bills is expected to become the ‘new normal’ in the UK, as the average person struggles to stay afloat. According to the charity organisation StepChange, arrears for housing, utilities and council tax are all expected to increase in 2026.

In 2025, the average rent arrear rose to £2,372, while average mortgage arrears grew from £10,239 in 2024 to £12,534 in 2025, representing a 22 per cent increase. What’s more, StepChange’s data shows that the average debt to energy companies grew to £2,560. People’s budgets can only stretch so far when prices skyrocket but wages stagnate.

Strong Spanish market

ALLIANZ is strengthening its non-life insurance business in Spain, which has become its fastest-growing region.Premiums increased by 8.3 per cent to €3.37 billion, supported by solid performance across multiple segments, including motor and property insurance. Despite inflation and rising claims, Allianz improved profitability in motor insurance.

The combined ratio remained stable at 96.4 per cent, above the group’s 92.2 per cent average. Operating profit held steady at €168 million. Its BBVA partnership grew strongly, with premiums rising 16 per cent to €614 million. Spain’s growth outpaces other key regions for the group, highlighting its strategic importance

WHILE the conflict continues in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump jumps up Forbe’s World Billionaires list from 700th in 2025 to 645th. Forbes estimates President Trump’s fortune has increased by €1.2 billion in just one year. Such a jump is largely due to cryptocurrency transactions which yielded €502 million in profits. Real estate holdings also make up the bulk of his fortune, including the €512 million-dollar Mar-a-Lago club and 10 golf courses across the USA.

AS cost of living pressures mount, charitable giving has plummeted. According to analysis by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), public donations are down by £1.4 billion as average donations fall from £72 to £65. CAF estimates six million fewer people gave to charity in 2025 compared to a decade prior. In recent years, food banks received the largest share of donations. They raised £610 million in 2025, more than arts and science (£575m), education (£508m), homelessness (£442m).

SINCE enforcing taxation in 2013, the Spanish Tax Agency has collected €5.1 billion from lottery wins. Lottery winnings are currently taxed at a 20 per cent rate, although the first €40,000 has been awarded tax free since 2018. In 2025, €318 million was collected, not including the Christmas lottery draw, a beloved Spanish tradition, as those figures haven’t yet been released. The most recent complete data comes from 2024, when €370 million was collected from prize pots nationwide.

3I Group 2.819,00 2.833,00 2.795,00 52,64K

Admiral Group 3.264,0 3.284,0 3.256,0 8,9K

Airtel Africa 360,07 364,80 359,81 49,59K

Anglo American 2.981,0 3.024,0 2.980,0 154,94K

Antofagasta 3.317,00 3.334,00 3.296,00 33,94K

Associated British Foods 1.818,0 1.821,5 1.810,5 12,6K

AstraZeneca 14.124,0 14.220,0 14.054,1 60,41K

Auto Trader Group Plc 477,10 484,30 477,10 155,33K

Aviva 628,00 629,20 623,00 307,26K

B&M European Value Retail SA 168,50 169,00 167,50 190,12K

BAE Systems 2.294,00 2.303,63 2.284,00 153,82K

Barclays 389,75 390,75 388,20 1,66M

Barratt Redrow 268,10 269,63 266,80 192,27K

Beazley 1.265,00 1.266,00 1.265,00 251,74K

Berkeley 3.600,0 3.606,0 3.584,0 4,01K

BP 568,41 573,00 568,20 4,09M

British American Tobacco 4.376,0 4.379,0 4.357,0 65,37K

BT Group 217,40 218,80 216,60 354,96K

Bunzl 2.190,0 2.210,0 2.182,0 13,44K Centrica 210,40 211,10 208,10 369,46K Coca Cola HBC AG 4.276,0 4.326,0 4.260,0 20,05K Compass 2.123,00 2.123,00 2.106,00 66,15K

ConvaTec Group 223,60 225,60 223,20 208,35K Croda Intl 2.536,0 2.541,0 2.529,0 4,67K DCC 4.552,0 4.588,0 4.542,0 12,35K Diageo 1.400,5 1.404,0 1.397,0 241,62K Diploma 5.850,00 5.880,00 5.795,00 11,88K

361,40 357,00 464,75K

551,40 552,60 546,32 83,98K

2.665,0 2.671,0 2.654,0 103,56K

Entertainment 8.000,0 8.018,0 7.932,0 1,05K

633,99 644,00 632,50 4,76K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Gymshark hit

UK brand Gymshark continues its upwards trajectory, ending 2025 with record sales of £646 million, up 6.4 per cent on 2025’s £607.3 million. Despite the success, pretax profit took a hit, falling from £11.9 million to £7 million. Gymshark currently remains focused on expanding, most recently opening locations in Manchester, New York and Dubai.

Wage raise

MAJOR UK chains are raising minimum wage salaries. Primark’s UK workforce will now earn £13 (£13.71 in London), corresponding to a 4.1 per cent increase in hourly rates. Marks & Spencer also announced plans to invest £70 million to increase pay. The hourly M&S wage will rise by 6.4 per cent to £13.41.

Recruitment regulations

AS of June 2026, all companies in the EU will be required to disclose the expected salary before the first job interview has taken place.

This marks a significant change to established recruitment procedure as a way to ensure equality in the labour market. By clearly listing the starting salary on job listings, it eliminates discrepancies attributed to basing salaries on experience or leaving it up to negotiation further in the recruitment process.

Gifting homes

AS house prices soar, the younger generation are being left out in the cold. However, grandparents and parents are coming to the rescue. There is a growing phenomenon of elderly family members gifting their homes to the younger generation, keeping the property in the family rather than selling it. Real estate donations increa-

sed by 23 per cent since 2020, reaching 52,463 total transactions by 2025. Families who aren’t able to donate a property are helping in other ways. A total of 225,317 donations were made in 2025, many donating funds to help young people save the 30 per cent mortgage deposit needed to get on the property ladder.

Additionally, the EU has passed this new regulation as a way to shrink the gender pay gap. According to data, women earn between 12 - 12.7 per cent less than their male counterparts for every hour worked. Implementing salary transparency requirements limits discrimination and gives greater negotiating power to potential candidates.

While this directive is essential to maintaining transparency, companies are not required to disclose salaries of individual employees which remain classified as personal protected data. It is, however, illegal to penalise employees for discussing their salary with one another. Employees who choose to disclose such information are protected by the law.

Each EU member state must implement the necessary changes to its legal system before the June 7 deadline.

Bank note revamp

IT was reported recently that the enduring figure, Winston Churchill, would be removed from the £5 note. Jane Austin, JMW Turner and Alan Turing will also be phased out. In a shift away from prominent historical figures, the next series of British banknotes will feature animals native to the UK.

BRITISH data centre developer Ark has acquired land in Barcelona with plans to build a data centre with a maximum capacity of 45 megawatts. They purchased the 30,000 square metre plot for €600 million and represents Ark’s second international acquisition. Once operational, the facility could generate 150 jobs in Catalonia.

It’s all about respect

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

WHAT on earth is going on with the British police force? They continually gripe about being undermanned and ill equipped. They moan about being so weighed down with work they have been forced to downgrade ‘risk assessment’ of crimes to a ridiculous level and are constantly moaning that they simply ‘can’t cope’ with the latest crime figures. As legitimate as these claims may be, the precious plod does seem to find the time to dance around maypoles, thread their boots with rainbow laces and appear in a whole host of police reality programmes!

Well, whereas laces and prancing about may not be very time consuming, I can assure you reality programmes most certainly are. There are a dozen different cop shows running at the moment, from cops in the sky to the most recent which concerns endeavouring to seize criminal’s assets.

Well, I’ve done a number of reality programmes (including a few I would

rather forget!) and I can assure you they take forever. Every five minutes you see on the screen can take hours to shoot. The retakes alone can be unbelievably time consuming. How can these ‘overworked,’ rushed off their feet officers of the law, possibly find the time to be ‘reality stars’?

Another thing these shows are inclined to do is eat into the respect the public should hold for its upholders of law and order. Any aura of mystique or invincibility is stripped away by these programmes, which often show the utter contempt a small number of individuals have for the upholders of law and order. With the wide publicity television creates, public disorder and criminal acts are then copied by other members of toe rag society, who would normally be wary of the unknown consequences their actions could bring. Respect for the law is obtained by solving crime and putting away the bad guys, not strutting around like the jumped-up, ego-tripping American TV robo cops.

Let’s all get back to the true reality. The fact is that glamourising the police doesn’t do one iota toward rooting out criminals. Posing on telly and signing

autographs simply doesn’t hack it. It’s time the powers that be put a complete ban on all cop reality shows. Let’s restrict their TV appearances to announcements of successful conclusions to crime investigations. Now that’s the way to earn respect.

‘Oh, to be in England now that Aprils here’. Those immortal words from the pen of Robert Browning have never been more evident than my last few days of yet another quick sojourn to the ol’ country. My previous visit dumped me in the middle of the coldest spell for years, with people shuffling around liked iced up Eskimos. Not this time however. The beast from the East has been replaced by the shimmering sunshine of the south. The embankment of the Thames was quite magnificent, with sunlight bouncing off the water and terraces abounding with the blossoms of late magnolias and lightly clad Londoners, all celebrating the fact that spring has most definitely arrived. Will it last? Probably not - your Spanish vacation will be waiting! 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.

‘Mañana’ mindset

AFTER two years of living in Spain, British expatriate TikTok influencer Susie has become a viral sensation by documenting the profound cultural shift from UK urgency to chilled-out Spanish. Her insights offer a vital roadmap for the growing number of Britons relocating to regions such as the Costa del Sol.

According to Susie, the most striking difference remains the approach to time. In the UK, swiftness is king; in Spain, human connection takes precedence. Susie notes that queues at banks or supermarkets move slowly because conversations are never sacrificed for speed. Unlike the frustrated sighs common in British queues, Spanish locals embrace the wait as a social opportunity.

The concept of mañana, used for ‘tomorrow’, is often misunderstood by newcomers. Rather than a strict deadline, it means a philosophy where tasks happen ‘when the moment feels right’. This flexibility extends to the sacred siesta; Susie warns against DIY or loud chores between 2pm and 5pm.

She says integrate, visitors should adopt local rhythms: lunch at 2pm, dinner after 9pm, and lingering at tables long after the meal ends. While the transition from high-speed British productivity to Spanish ‘calm over speed’ can be jarring, Susie reports that the change significantly reduces stress and encourages a healthier work-life balance.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol €30k for charity

MIJAS resident and local historian Alan Boardman has reached a significant milestone in his mission to support Costa del Sol charities. His popular guided walking tours of Mijas Pueblo have now raised a total of €30,000 for various local causes.

The initiative began following the 2020/21 pandemic, a period when movement restrictions decimated traditional fundraising streams. Recognising a gap in the market as lockdowns eased, Mr Boardman turned his passion for local history into a philanthropic venture.

To ensure his tours offered unique value, Mr Boardman spent a year researching the village’s heritage. Beyond official archives, he consulted elderly residents to uncover oral histories and anecdotes that are rarely found in textbooks.

This dedication to authentic storytelling has earned the tours over 200 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor.

Axarquia

Iconic coastal event returns

TORRE DEL MAR is preparing for the 32nd Triatlón de Torre del Mar, scheduled for Saturday, April 12. As one of the most established fixtures in the Malaga Province sporting calendar, the event serves as a vital qualifier for the Andalucian triathlon circuit.

Organisers recently unveiled details for this 32nd edition, introducing new features designed to increase competitiveness while ensuring the races integrate smoothly with local life. The event is a significant economic driver for Velez-Malaga, drawing large crowds that benefit the local hospitality and retail sectors.

Safety remains a priority following the resolution of previous permit hurdles. Full permissions are now confirmed, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and security forces.

The town’s scenic streets and seaside promenade will provide the backdrop for the action, offering an engaging spectacle for both athletes and visitors.

Mallorca

Festival line-up creates buzz

MALLORCA’S summer music scene has just levelled up, with major new acts confirmed for one of the island’s hottest festivals... and music fans should prepare to be left ‘Breathless’.

Organisers of the Es Jardí festival have unveiled headline additions that instantly raise the stakes, with The Corrs and Fatboy Slim joining the 2026 line-up.

It’s a move that adds serious star power and promises a season packed with nostalgia, energy and unforgettable nights.

The Corrs are set to return to Mallorca for the first time in over two decades, bringing their signature blend of pop and Celtic sound to the stage. Expect crowds singing along to the irresistible classics!

Meanwhile, Fatboy Slim will take things in a very different direction, delivering the kind of high-octane set that turns a summer night into a full-blown party. If past performances are anything to go by, this is where the tempo will rise.

Costa Blanca South Living the good life

LIFE on the Costa Blanca has been ranked among the happiest in Spain, according to the latest Spain Happy Index 2026, placing Alicante Province near the top for overall quality of life.

The study, which evaluates well-being across multiple indicators including climate, healthcare, cost of living and access to services, highlights the region as one of the country’s most balanced places to live. It also points to particularly strong results in towns such as Torrevieja, Guardamar del Segura and Orihuela, which scored highly across several quality of life indicators. For many residents, the result confirms a long-held feeling rather than revealing something new.

What sets the Costa Blanca apart is not a single factor but the way everyday life comes together. Long hours of sunshine, proximity to the sea, and a slower pace of living combine to create an environment where routine feels less pressured and more intentional.

Almeria Holy Albox

THE countdown to Holy Week has begun in towns and cities nationwide. In Albox, the town hall is preparing the final touches to its anticipated Holy Week programme, ensuring the celebration that is so closely tied to the town’s historical roots and national identity, is a success.

Albox’s Holy Week will begin on March 27, the Friday before Palm Sunday known as the Friday of Sorrows, with the solemn procession of Our Lady of Sorrows. At 10.00pm, women from across the municipality will lead a candlelit procession, commemorating the suffering of the Virgin Mary as she witnesses her son sentenced to death. The programme of events continues with a series of processions. Over the week, hundreds will gather, coming together in shared remembrance and reflection. Highlights include the traditional procession of La Borriquita on Palm Sunday, when young people dress as Hebrews and carry the image of Our Father Jesus of Victory through the streets as the penitents carry olive branches.

Costa Blanca North Easter travel boom

MORE than 16,000 visitors are expected to descend on Javea this Easter, as the coastal town cements its reputation as one of the Costa Blanca’s fastest-growing music destinations. The surge is being driven by a major live music festival scheduled over the holiday weekend on Friday April 3 and Saturday April 4, transforming the usually relaxed seaside spot into a buzzing hub of concerts, nightlife and international crowds.

The event is set to bring a mix of well-known artists, DJs and live performers to the area, attracting both Spanish visitors tourists looking for something beyond traditional Semana Santa celebrations. Hotels and holiday rentals are already seeing increased demand, with local businesses preparing for one of their busiest Easters.

For residents, it marks a shift in how Javea is positioning itself. Long known for its beaches and laid-back charm, the town is now tapping into the rising popularity of music-led tourism.

Molecular myths meet matriarchs in Catalonia!

BREAKING VIEWS

CATALONIA’S culinary wizardsthink foams, spheres and theatrical wafts of liquid nitrogen - have long insisted their inspiration lies not in the laboratory, but at Grandma’s kitchen table. Now, thanks to a Catalan government initiative called Gastrosàvies, the grannies are nally having their say.

A neat play on the Catalan for ‘wise’ and ‘grandmother’, Gastrosàvies showcases more than 100 senior women preparing traditional dishes on camera, with the aim of preserving and passing on authentic Catalan cooking. No spheri cation here: just sharp knives, sturdy pans and ingredients that know their place.

So far, the project’s gathered over 300 recipes from across the region. Twelve have already been lmed and posted online, with more to follow. Expect rice with cabbage and peas, thyme

soup, chicken with apple, duck with turnips and pork chops with chestnuts - dishes born of thrift, seasonality and inherited know-how.

In rural Catalonia they survive; in Barcelona they compete with pizza, kebabs, ramen, sushi and the omnipresent Argentinian empanada.

In Santa Margarida i els Monjos, 76-year-old Maria Antònia Udina prepares Penedès cockerel with dried fruit, nuts and cognac. She champions local produce, slow-reared and grape-fed, and the holy trinity of Catalan cooking: sofregit, fragrant herbs and picada (Catalan ‘pesto’).

She admires temples of gastronomy such as El Celler de Can Roca (twice voted the world’s best restaurant) yet doubts wild mushroom ice cream ever graced her mother’s stove. Her hope? Her grandchildren swap Pot Noodles for picada!

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. Pro ts to Cudeca cancer charity.

TOPTrending

War Machine

WAR MACHINE is an action film like no other. What you think is going to be a simple but gritty film about wannabe army rangers turns into an intergalactic thriller when an alien War Machine invades.

For nearly two hours, the film follows an elite group of military trainees who are mercifully hunted through the wilderness by the extra-terrestrial and seemingly indestructible threat. Brutal killings and an eerie score make for an anxiety inducing spectacle.

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives - Disney+

EYE-ROLL worthy drama set against the backdrop of the Mormon church is just what you want from reality TV.

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives returns for its fourth season, cementing itself as everybody’s favourite guilty pleasure show.

The women of Momtok are back picking petty fights, sharing juicy secrets about one another and lear-

ning how to juggle their family lives with growing their careers in the wider Hollywood industry.

Cat’s love language

CATS can be hard to read. Is that a look of love and affection or are they plotting world domination? Hard to tell. There are a few signs to look out for if you’re ever questioning your cat’s true feelings. If they’re prone to headbutting you, that’s a sign of love, not unprovoked aggression. Rubbing their cheeks against yours is an affectionate social behaviour that allows them to transfer their scent, marking you as their own.

The same goes for kneading, which is what kittens do to their mother. Doing so as an adult to their human companion is a clean sign of adoration.

If your cat often greets you at the door and follows you around the house, that’s their way of welcoming you home and enjoying your presence. They wouldn’t do

The signs are there, you have to look for them.

that if they were fed up with you.

You’ll know a cat feels truly comfortable in your presence when they expose their stomach. This means they feel relaxed and safe. Just because they’re showing their belly, doesn’t mean they want you to touch. Doing so might incur a bite, and not the affectionate kind.

Cats will also tell you they love you vocally, by meowing and purring, two signs of contentment. Once they’ve had their fill, however, that might turn into a hiss, which needs no translation.

Smelling of success

THE most successful search and rescue dog was a St Bernard named Barry. Born in 1800, he worked as a mountain rescue dog in Switzerland and Italy. Through his outstanding sense of smell, he saved around 40 people in his 12 years and became a Swiss National Hero!

HouseSitMatch sitters love pets, they could care for yours for free

A LOVE of pets and travel and needing someone to help at home launched a service

Lamia Walker, founder of House SitMatch needed help at home to care for home and pets when she travelled. She travelled a lot and it’s too much to ask of neighbours over and over. So she began an online service with a friend to help people like herself find a solution if they want to travel and need help just taking care of things, and keeping pets safely in their routines at home. So HouseSitMatch was born 10 years ago!

You too can relax on holiday knowing your pets are being cared for in their own environment, at no cost to you by sitters that are recommended. The pet-sitters will offer their time and service in exchange for free accommodation. It allows the sitter to discover a new location from the comfort of your home. It’s

Lamia started HouseSitMatch because she needed help to care for her home and pets.

like old fashioned barter.

How it works

1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com as a homeowner

2. Create your profile with photos of your home and pets

3. Review applications and video

chat with potential house-sitters

4. Match with the perfect pet-sitter and enjoy your holiday worry-free Real savings, real peace of mind

Each house sit benefits both the homeowner and the house-sitter. Your pets receive one-on-one attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Lamia - she saves over €1,500 annually using house-sitters instead of boarding kennels for Panda and her other animals.

For a small annual registration fee, you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday.

Join today

Register at HouseSitMatch.com and use code WELCOME50 for 50 per cent off your first year.

Lamia Walker, Founder. Call: +44 (0)7772 142742 Rated Excellent on Trustpilot - 4.9/5

Public transport dog rules

NAVIGATING Spain with a four-legged companion can be a labyrinth of conflicting regulations. While many pet owners assume rules are uniform, the reality varies wildly by city, operator, and transport type.

Rail travel is currently the most pet-friendly option. On Renfe’s high-speed AVE and Long Distance trains, small pets under 10kg are permitted in carriers. Crucially, a ‘Big Pet’ pilot programme has expanded to major routes like Madrid-Barcelona and Madrid-Malaga, allowing dogs up to 40kg for a €35 fee. On local Cercanías trains, dogs can travel without a carrier, provided they are leashed and muzzled.

Metro systems present more complexity. In Madrid and Barcelona, dogs are welcome except during weekday rush hours (typically 07.30-09.30 and 17.0019.00). Requirements usually include a short lead and a muzzle. Conversely, buses remain the most restrictive; long-distance carriers like ALSA generally relegate pets to the luggage compartment in carriers, though

some premium fleets offer climate-controlled spaces.

Mallorca illustrates this regional divide perfectly. Palma’s EMT city buses allow dogs on all lines for a small fee (around €0.30), yet interurban buses often pro-

hibit pets in the cabin. Before departing, travellers should verify specific operator rules, as the difference between a welcoming carriage and a refused boarding often comes down to a muzzle or a specific time of day.

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BUY & SELL

WE BUY Persian carpets, fur jackets and coats, pewter and silver of all kinds 90/100/800, silver-plated cutlery, jewellery and watches of all kinds, amber, coral, coins, medals, porcelain. Inheritances and household liquidations, military until 1945, photos, medals etc. Fair price - cash Tel. 688 335 497 (350573)

CHARITY

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (MABS) MURCIA/MAR MENOR

Help and support is just a phone call away, Avda Rio Nalón, Tel: 693 275 779 (95462)

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ELEGANTE, slim Sophie. Experienced in a large variety of full body massages. Villamartin apartment or can travel to all areas. 693 357 526 (314062)

MOTORHOMES

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MOTORING

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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