Costa de Almeria 19 - 25 March 2026 Issue 2124

Old traditions celebrated

Hundreds across Almeria celebrate Dia de la Vieja

MOJACAR residents recently joined hundreds across Almeria in celebrating Dia de la Vieja, a beloved tradition in the Levante Almeriense region. Every year, in the middle of lent, family, friends and neighbours convene in the countryside to eat, drink and ‘break old people’.

Of course, no old people are actually harmed, rather it is piñatas designed to look like the elderly that become the targets.

These effigies are readily available to buy, however many families prefer to make their own, adding a creative originality to each one. Mojacar residents were especially imaginative this year, their colourful creations perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the event.

After making the piñata, all that’s left to do is

break it. Mojacar’s youngest residents lined up to throw rocks and sticks at the ‘viejas’ until they broke apart. The children made quick work of the destruction and reaped the rewards with the sweets that spilled from the piñatas.

The day is often also celebrated with a com -

munal lunch. Hornazos, a sweet braided bread with a hard-boiled egg baked into the centre, is a typical traditional dish, often made especially for the celebration.

Little is known about the origins of Dia de la Vieja. Although some believe the act of breaking the ‘viejas’ to be a symbol

of leaving behind what is broken in the past in order to start anew.

Spring shopping prizes

SHOPPERS in Mojacar have an added incentive to support local businesses this spring, as a new campaign promises the chance to win big. Running from March 20 to April 3, the ‘Primavera de Premios’ (Spring Prizes) initiative aims to boost footfall across the Parque Comercial Mojacar while rewarding loyal customers.

The concept is simple. For every purchase made in a participating shop, customers can enter a prize draw by

form of shopping vouchers, split across 10 prizes. Winners will be able to spend their vouchers within the same network of local businesses, creating a cycle that continues to benet the town’s economy.

The campaign spans a wide variety of sectors, from fashion and accessories to dining, beauty, health, and leisure. Organisers hope this diversity will encourage residents and visitors alike to explore everything the com-

Shop local and win big.

Risky rescue

FOUR hikers were rescued by the Guardia Civil after becoming lost in the mountains of Sierra Nevada on Wednesday March 11, following a dramatic search operation in freezing conditions.

The group had been hiking in a remote area near Laujar de Andarax when they became disoriented at an approximate altitude of 2,000 metres. According to authorities, the hikers contacted emergency services after realising they were lost, poorly equipped for the cold

pping temperatures.

O cers attempting to reach the group soon discovered that the rugged terrain, covered in snow, mud and ice, prevented o cial vehicles from continuing the route. As a result, the o cers were forced to proceed on foot for nearly two kilometres through di cult mountain conditions.

The hikers were nally located at around 10.30pm, showing symptoms of mild hypothermia after several hours exposed to tempera-

grees Celsius. Rescue o cers provided warm clothing and assistance to help them regain body heat before escorting them safely down the mountain.

The group was later transported to Laujar de Andarax, where they con rmed they did not require medical treatment.

Authorities have reminded the public to carefully plan mountain routes, check weather forecasts and carry appropriate equipment before hiking in high-altitude areas.

Tenants’ shield

LEASE PROTECTIONS EXPLAINED

SPAIN’S rental legislation offers robust protections for tenants, allowing them to remain in a property for several years even if landlords wish to end the contract earlier. The Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos sets mandatory minimum durations for residential leases to promote housing stability.

Tenants renting from private individuals can stay up to five years, while leases with corporate landlords extend to a minimum of seven years. Contracts often start with a one-year term but must automatically renew annually at the tenant’s request until the legal minimum is reached. Provided tenants meet obligations such as paying rent and maintaining the property, landlords generally

cannot terminate the agreement early.

Exceptions are limited. Landlords may reclaim the property if needed as a permanent residence for themselves or close family, but this usually must be specified in the contract with advance notice.

If the property is not used as stated within a set timeframe, the former tenant may have the right to return or claim compensation.

After the minimum period, leases can continue through tacit extension under Article 10, renewing yearly unless either party gives notice. Landlords must give four months’ notice to terminate, while tenants must give two months.

Bridal bill alert

PLANNING a Spanish wedding?

Couples are being warned to keep a close eye on their balance sheets as Hacienda, the national tax agency, intensifies its scrutiny of wedding gifts.

Authorities are reminding newlyweds that cash and presents qualify as taxable donations, a move designed to close revenue loopholes as digital transfers replace traditional cash envelopes.

With the average Spanish wedding now exceeding €24,000,

many couples rely on guest contributions to offset costs. However, under Spain’s inheritance and gift tax laws, any asset transferred without compensation must be declared. Digital trails from bank transfers and even social media posts now make it easier for officials to track undeclared income. The financial stakes for non-compliance are high.

Hacienda can probe records up to four years after the ceremony. Undeclared sums up to €3,000 may attract 50 per cent penalties,

while larger amounts or cases of fraud can trigger fines of up to 150 per cent of the unreported value. The taxman’s reach varies by region, as some autonomous communities offer exemptions for close family members.

Experts advise couples to consult a tax professional and maintain detailed records of all donors. While the crackdown has sparked social media backlash over ‘taxed honeymoons’, the current rules demand strict vigilance to avoid a post-wedding audit.

Public holiday compensation

Law interpretation shifts

IN Spain, workers may be entitled to compensation when a public holiday falls on a Saturday, following recent court interpretations distinguishing statutory holidays from weekly rest days. Under the Workers’ Statute, employees are entitled to 14 paid public holidays annually. Traditionally, if a holiday coincided with a non-working weekend day, employees received no substitute day off. However, Supreme Court rulings have clarified that public holidays and rest days are separate legal rights, potentially allowing employees additional leave or financial compensation if both fall on the same day.

These rulings do not create a universal entitlement but depend on sector-specific collective agreements. Some agreements already provide substitute days for holidays falling on rest days, while others remain silent, prompting potential disputes. Employees have up to a year to submit claims, beginning with internal discussions and possibly escalating to labour courts.

The issue highlights differences for expatriates, who may expect automatic substitution for weekend holidays as in other countries. Spanish labour law emphasises negotiated agreements and sector-specific practices rather than blanket rules. Courts are increasingly adapting interpretations to evolving work patterns, including shift work and flexible schedules. While legal guidance has strengthened the case for compensation, whether workers receive additional leave depends on their employment contract, collective agreement, and employer practices. The topic remains a key discussion point in Spain’s employment landscape.

Almeria film awarded

ALMERIA filmmaker Ian de la Rosa’s newest feature ‘Ivan & Hadoum’ is being met with critical acclaim. Most recently the film won big at the 29th Malaga Film Festival, adding three new awards to its list of growing accolades.

At the Malaga Film Festival, ‘Ivan & Hadoum’ took home the Special Jury Prize, while De la Rose himself won for the best screenplay. The film’s lead actor, Silver Chacon, was also celebrated at the event, winning in the best male performance category.

The film also saw massive success at the Berlin Film Festival Earlier this year

MOJACAR Town Hall has given the green light for the construction of a new five-star luxury hotel within the Macenas Mediterranean Resort.

The high-end development is being spearheaded by the renowned Cosentino family and represents an estimated €40 million investment plus a firm commitment to supporting tourism in the region. Slated to open in 2028, the hotel will offer 143 guest rooms built to offer maximum comfort and be operated under the Destination by Hyatt brand, bringing international standards of service to Mojacar’s coastline.

This development for-

where it was awarded the Teddy Award which specifically recognises LGBTQ+ productions.

Ian de la Rose has spoken at length on his intention with this film. He wanted it to reflect his love for Almeria. The film is set in Almeria and focuses on the people who work within the province’s agricultural sector. Filmed primarily in Nijar, where De la Rose grew up, the feature is a way for him to show his love for the place and the people through his art.

‘Ivan & Hadoum’ will soon be available to the masses, arriving in select Spanish commercial cinemas on June 19.

Luxury Mojacar

ms part of a larger strategy to counter the traditional seasonality of local tourism by attracting high-end visitors, business travellers and guests seeking premium

leisure experiences. Not only will its existence boost Mojacar’s profile as a tourist destination, but it will also contribute to creating job opportunities in the area.

Designed with Mediterranean architectural elements and sustainability in mind, the hotel will integrate with the surrounding landscape. Plans also include a range of wellness, cultural and gastronomic offerings, complementing existing amenities such as club facilities, dining venues and leisure spaces

Seasonal workforce

ALMERIA will be welcoming more than 500 Ecuadorians to fill the holes in the province’s agricultural sector, which is currently facing a labour shortage. According to the Almeria Government Sub-Delegation, the department responsible for the arrival of migrants fill agricultural vacancies, 200 workers are already in Almeria. Another 100 are expected to sign their contracts in the coming weeks, with 245 arriving in stages up until May. Through the Collective Management of Recruitment of Origin programme, migrant workers will be provided with temporary seasonal contracts, quality accommodation and round-trip tickets home. They will be eligible to nine month long stays for four years, returning to Ecuador in-between the agricultural seasons. In 2025, 25,767 migrant workers benefited from this initiative, a steady increase on the 20,000 in 2024, and 19,000 in 2023.

This programme is not designed to replace potential Spanish workers, rather to fill roles that would otherwise go unstaffed. Companies who take part in this programme must provide adequate evidence of a labour shortage that can’t be remedied by hiring locally before recruiting abroad.

the

A huge ‘thank you’ to you!

CHRISSIE CREMORE, the President of The Indalo Players would like to ‘thank you’ to the public for helping them help others. At their annual AGM, profits raised from productions during 2025 allowed them to allocate €1,000 to both the Turre and Vera Food Banks and €500 to Stepping Stones.

The most expensive cost when staging a production is hiring lights at local theatres, which can reach an astonishing amount of €3,000. Costumes, props and set building are covered by the group, but thankfully because of the amazing audiences who came to see Agatha Crusty And The Village Hall Murders plus The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Indalo Players could make this generous donation to local charities. They always welcome new members and definitely need more men for future plays.

The Turre Food Bank currently has 130 families registered with them. The Vera branch 385. Thankfully local supermarkets supply perishable items with an expiry date like meat, fish, vegetables, yoghurts and bread. Howe -

ver, money is required to provide products like milk, rice, flour, eggs, pasta, oil, beans and tins of tuna. Donations also allow the charities to supply baby milk and food, nappies and personal things like toothbrushes and soap.

The Turre Food Bank would especially like to thank the Sewing Circle who for many years have knitted jumpers and blankets, etc plus lovingly crafted Christmas gifts for the children. Stepping

Stones supports families who are dealing with Alzheimer’s. Their donation will subsidise excursions, weekly meals and help when sudden care is required.

For further information regarding the Food Banks please email: pazdzieca@yahoo.com

Stepping Stones: jandfdavies@ gmail.com

The Indalo Players: indalopla yers@gmail.com /www.indalopla yers.es

Cueva kart race

ONE of Cueva del Almanzora’s most beloved traditions is making its grand return. The town hall recently announced the 19th Non-Motorised Downhill Kart Race will take place on Sunday, March 22.

This colourful tradition puts participants’ creative, crafting and driving skills to the test as they drive hand-made race karts through the streets.

A favourite day for many, its popularity is only growing. Designs are getting wilder each year as participants let their imagination run wild. Previous editions have seen the Bat Mobile fly downhill, along with the iconic Mystery Machine which even featured Scooby Doo in the front seat.

As in previous years there will be three different competitive ca -

tegories ranging from Children’s Speed, Adult Speed and Drift Trike.

In each category, the top three finishers will be awarded with a cash prize: €50 for third place, €80 for second and €100 for pole position.

In this competition, creativity and design is every bit as important

as speed with a bonus prize of €100 awarded for the best designed kart in both child and adult categories.

Whether hurtling down a hill at full speed, or cheering them on from the side-lines, Cueva del Almanzora’s Kart race promises fun for the whole family.

Sweet showdown in Adra

ADRA is on the hunt for the most delicious desserts. On Thursday, March 26, Adra Town Hall will be hosting an Easter Dessert Competition in order to find the tastiest seasonal treats.

From 5pm to 7pm, the Ciudad de Adra auditorium will be transformed into a culinary hub with traditional seasonal pastries on full display and ready to taste.

The competition aims to promote an interest and appreciation for traditional cuisine which is packed with flavours. Pestiños (honey fritters), leche frita (fried milk) and buñuelos are a small example of the tasty treats on offer.

The competition is open to anyone

with a passion for baking - whether a season-professional, an enthusiastic amateur or maybe just someone who loves baking shows and wants to give it a try themselves.

Each participant will submit one pre-prepared dessert, ensuring there is plenty for the full jury to taste.

The judges will decide the winners based on a range of variables including taste, texture, presentation and the traditional or original nature of the recipe.

The bakers with the top three desserts will not only win gastronomic glory, but also a cash prize: €50 for third place, €100 for second, and €150 for the coveted first place position.

Chance encounter

THE dog now known as Santiago, or Santi, was found by hikers in Bedar on the Miners Walking Route and reported to the local authorities. As it was a Friday afternoon, a local resident, Peni, was contacted and asked if she could care for him until Monday while checks were made for a microchip.

Over the weekend Santi experienced comforts he may never have known before. He discovered steps, a pillow, a blanket and even his reflection in a mirror, along with kindness and affection. He was subdued and uncertain, seemingly unfamiliar with such care.

On the Monday it was confirmed he was not chipped, so Peni contacted PAWS-PATAS. Despite the shelter already being full, the organisation agreed to help and Peni kindly

offered to foster him. It soon became clear Santi would need medical treatment. A veterinary examination revealed a ruptured tendon in his paw, and he underwent surgery. He was also castrated. Peni had long planned a fundraiser for PAWS-PATAS, but Santi’s situation spurred her into action. With help from the local community, volunteers baked, donated and served food, and organised a guided walk followed by brunch at Casa Meraki in Serena, just off the Miners Walking Route.

The event raised an impressive €1,430. Santi continues to recover well in Peni’s care and, once fully healed, will be looking for a permanent home. PAWS-PATAS has thanked everyone who contributed to the fundraiser and supported his treatment.

Race circuit revealed

ALMERIA’S Popular Race Circuit returns for its 13th edition, this time bringing the competition to even more municipalities across the province. Benahaduz, Zurgena and Mojacar are the newest additions to the circuit’s calendar, bringing the total number of events to 18.

For over a decade the Popular Race has endeavoured to reach every corner of the province. No matter how small the town, sport is a unifying force that or-

ganisers strongly believe will help bring Almeria together as a community.

Each year participation grows, with 4,500 total participants in 2025’s edition. Of that number 3,300 were adults and 1,100 were runners under 18. Fostering the younger generations’ interest in the race is a key goal of race organisers, as a way to ensure the success of the race for years to come.

The circuit kicks off in spectacular style on March

21 in Enix and will run throughout the year. Key circuit stops include Turre on July 11, Garrucha on August 1 and Mojacar on September 20, to name a few. The race circuit will culminate in Pulpi on October 24.

Racers have the chance to register for the entire circuit, with prices ranging from €40 to €50. Or they pick and choose individual races to compete in for €11. Runners can sign up via www.carreraspopulares.com.

Fashion show sneak-peek

THE second edition of Vicar Flamenco Fashion Show (SMFV) is right around the corner. In the countdown to the highly anticipated event, Vicar hosted a sneak peek presentation, offering those in attendance a taste of what’s to come.

With Mayor Antonio Bonilla in attendance, the full details of the April 11 event were revealed and excitement only grew.

The first Vicar Flamenco Fashion Show was a resounding success, surpassing even the organisers wildest imaginations. The 2026 edition will take place at the La Gangosa Amphitheatre, and many expect the place to be packed to the rafters.

The show’s stellar reputation attracted top names to take part in the sequel. On April 11, seven phenomenal designers will showcase

their collections: Eli Martin, Virginia Martinez, Manuel Martin, Marisa Perez, Jose Contreras, Lola Mendoza and Damaris Viñolo. Their designs will come to life on the runway, dazzling the crowds and inspiring future flamenco fashion designers.

During the presentation, the mayor took the opportunity to em -

phasise the importance of showcasing the abundance of talent that helps shape Vicar’s identity as a town.

At its heart, the Vicar Flamenco Fashion Show is a chance for residents to connect with their traditional roots, while showcasing innovative designs and spotlighting established and emerging talent within the industry.

Royal visit

EL EJIDO welcomed royalty recently, when Her Majesty Queen Letizia visited the Cajamar ‘Las Palmerillas’ Experimental Station, a leading agricultural research and development facility. The royal visit marked the 50th anniversary of the cooperative’s Agri-food Innovation Ecosystem.

During her visit, the Queen dressed in a white lab coat and embarked on a tour of the facilities. There she learned about the innovative work carried out at the facility which helps to develop the local and national agri-food sector.

Researchers had the opportunity to speak with Queen Letizia about their projects, past and present, which have contributed to developing a more efficient,

sustainable system. Those in the agri-food sector are currently facing the lofty challenge of developing a system that will allow them to feed nine billion people a healthy diet by 2050.

Her Majesty also spoke with training programme beneficiaries whose contributions aim to facilitate social and professional integration.

Since its creation, the Cajamar ‘Las Palmerillas’ Experimental Station has been dedicated to bettering the agricultural sector, and over the years has become a benchmark for farmers, technicians and researchers. The Queen’s presence brought attention to the influential work that transpires there, which serves to benefit all.

Road safe students

THE Mojacar Local Police Road Safety Education Unit has been running road safety sessions for Infant and Primary pupils at CEIP Bartolome Flores. The aim? To introduce Mojacar’s youngest residents to basic traffic rules and encourage safe mobility habits from an early age.

Led by officers specialising in road safety, the sessions blended theory with practical activities tailored to each age group. Through interactive games, exercises, and everyday examples, pupils learned to recognise key traffic signs, understand the importance of following rules, and adopt responsible behaviour both as pedestrians and future drivers. Topics covered included crossing the road safely, using pedestrian crossings correctly, respecting traffic lights, and basic guidance on riding bicycles or scooters.

cal exercises. Their curiosity and enthusiasm made it clear that the lessons were making a difference.

In the spotlight

The school praised the initiative, noting how engaged the pupils were in both the explanations and practi-

Francisco Garcia welcomed the initiative, highlighting the significance of instilling road safety awareness from an early age. “Teaching children to respect traffic rules is key to raising responsible citizens,” he said. These sessions form part of Mojacar Council’s ongoing programme, run in partnership with local schools, to foster traffic awareness and safer streets for the town’s youngest residents.

EL EJIDO is set to become Spain’s stage capital this May as it hosts the 49th International Theatre Festival, a month-long celebration of performing arts that has earned a reputation for quality, prestige and avant-garde productions. The festival, a cornerstone of the town’s cultural life, was officially presented at the

Teatro Municipal by Mayor Francisco Góngora, Culture Delegate Juanjo Alonso, Vice President and Culture Deputy Almudena Morales, and local councillor Elena Gómez.

Running from May 1 to 30, the festival will showcase leading Spanish talent including Imanol Arias, Rafael Álvarez ‘El Brujo’, Paloma San Basilio, María Galiana, Miguel Ríos, María Barranco, Silvia Marsó, Sergio Peris-Mencheta, Joglars and Anabel Alonso. Alongside theatre, the programme embraces music, dance, contemporary circus, street performances and family-friendly shows, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

A key highlight is the festival’s commitment to local talent. The Muestra de Teatro Aficionado, now in its 37th edition, features 31 local groups, while the festival poster was designed by El Ejido native Virginia González. Special tributes will honour María Galiana and Imanol Arias with the Butacas de Honor for their outstanding careers.

Affordable ticketing, cultural workshops, musical performances and innovative events like the NomadArt container project promise a festival that blends tradition, creativity and community spirit, reinforcing El Ejido’s status as a national hub for the performing arts.

Exotic species removed

IN 2025, the Comunidad de Madrid removed over 4,000 non-native animals from the region’s natural environment in a bid to protect its wildlife.

These species can compete with local animals for food and space, and many disrupt habitats. The parva fish topped the list, with 1,773 individuals captured, followed by 1,208 alburno and 418 perca sol.

The work was carried out by the Patrulla Fauna alongside environmental experts. Animals that had established significant populations, often due to irresponsible pet ownership or trade, were taken to the Centro de Recuperación de Animales Silvestres Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente (CRAS) in Tres Cantos. There, veterinary staff provide specialist care.

Among the creatures collected last year were 253 Florida turtles, 118

Argentine parrots, 83 peninsular turtles, 84 raccoons, and 61 Nile geese. Other captures included red-bellied turtles, American mink, Vietnamese pigs, three-crested Chinese turtles, as well as a range of fish and reptiles. Many had been abandoned or released intentionally.

The regional authorities emphasised that releasing exotic species into the wild is illegal and can lead to fines. They also highlighted the continuing need for careful management to prevent non-native animals from upsetting the delicate balance of local ecosystems.

Camino made easier

CORREOS has just made walking the Camino de Santiago much easier, taking the load off travelling pilgrims by offering a luggage transport service. Paq Mochila is a stage-by-stage transport service, available to pilgrims walking the main Camino routes in Spain and Portugal as of March 16. Thousands of people make the voyage each year. Now, with the Paq Mochila, pilgrims will only have to worry about transporting their everyday essentials.

The service is easy and straightforward. For a fee, the Spanish postal service will collect luggage from designated accommodation sites from 8.00am, then deliver it to the next stop on the camino by

2.30pm.

Paq Mochila is available on the French Way from Roncesvalles and Somport, on the Northern Way from Irun, on the Primitive Way from Oviedo, on the English Way from Ferrol, on the Winter Way from Ponferrada, on the Silver Route-Sanabres Way from Ourense and on the Way to Fisterra and Muxía .

Pilgrims are encouraged to visit the Correos website before they set off on the Camino de Santiago. There they can find accommodation among 4,000 listings, explore the most popular Camino routes, discover useful tips and arrange their luggage transport service.

A frozen farewell

SPANISH ice cream maker La Menorquina has announced it is retiring one of its most beloved products: Punky, the penguin-shaped ice-lolly that defined the summer holidays of a generation.

The company confirmed that the quirky treat, launched in 1998, will be permanently removed from its product range. This marks the end of an era for many who grew up with it on Spanish beaches and in cafes, the final nail in the coffin for many childhoods.

Fake toys seized

THE National Police has confiscated over 600,000 counterfeit toys, mainly linked to the popular series Stranger Things, in an operation that exposed risks to children’s safety. Officers carried out five inspections across warehouses in Getafe, Fuenlabrada and Parla in the Comunidad de Madrid, uncovering the haul of unauthorised products.

What made Punky so popular was its distinctive design, complete with a bright orange mohawk, along with the sweet vanilla ice-cream stored inside.

The clever combination helped Punky become a summer ritual for families visiting Spain, particularly during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

La Menorquina stated the reason for Punky’s retirement to be due to evolving consumer tastes. While many remember Punky fondly, few have the confidence to order it in public as full-grown adults. The announcement has sparked a wave of online reminiscence, with many sharing memories of the quirky treat and lamenting the end of a generation - defining summer favourite.

The seized items included plush toys, keychains and other merchandise, all showing clear signs of substandard manufacturing. Investigators warned that the toys could easily break into small pieces, creating a high risk of choking or poisoning for young users.

The investigation began in February after authorities detected suspicious shipments arriving from China. The packages contained falsified documentation to disguise their origin. Initial checks led to the interception of 72 boxes containing toys connected to a major international audiovisual franchise. Further tracking identified the main storage facility in Parla, prompting a series of simultaneous inspections across the three locations.

companies, where a further 16,000 items were recovered. Two arrests followed - both suspects are now in custody, facing charges of offences against industrial property rights.

The operation also extended to several logistics

Authorities hailed the intervention as a swift response that prevented the counterfeit toys from reaching the market.

Easter spend increase

SPANIARDS are set to increase their holiday budgets this Easter, with average spending intentions rising to €538 - a 13 per cent jump from last year. According to the latest Observatorio Cetelem report, this surge comes despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East driving up fuel costs.

The highest spenders are those aged 35 to 39, who plan to part with an average of €688. For those heading away, the typical budget reaches €856, with accommodation accounting for the lion’s share at €376. Conversely, those staying at home expect to spend a more modest €279.

Travel plans remain largely domestic. On Monday, March 16, data confirmed that 80 per cent of holidaymakers

will stay within Spain, opting for rural tourism (40 per cent) or coastal escapes (37 per cent). Only 14 per cent of citizens intend to travel abroad.

Recent disruptions to the high-speed rail network, including derailments and strikes, have pushed many towards road travel. Despite higher petrol prices, travellers have allocated €172 for transport to avoid rail uncertainty. While only 44 per cent of the population will officially travel, local leisure remains a priority. Dining out is the most popular activity, cited by 52 per cent of travellers. This year’s Semana Santa reflects a spirit of adaptability, balancing traditional celebrations with measured, domestic-focused

sumption.

Roman forum beneath hotel

A ROUTINE lift installation at the Gran Hotel Barcino in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter has triggered a historic archaeological breakthrough, unearthing a monumental 2,000-year-old Roman pavement.

This discovery, announced in late February, is described by experts as one of the most significant finds in the city’s recent history, effectively forcing historians to rewrite the urban map of ancient Barcino.

The excavation, which spanned two years, revealed 42 square metres of precisely fitted Montjuïc stone slabs. These stones served as the surface for the city’s forum, the beating civic heart of the Roman colony founded between 15 and 10 BC.

The orientation of the slabs has stunned researchers; they run parallel to the decumanus (eastwest axis) rather than the

Roman remains continue to be uncovered beneath modern cities like Barcelona, where construction work recently revealed part of the ancient Roman settlement of Barcino.

cardo (north-south axis) as previously theorised. This 90-degree shift challenges decades of academic consensus regarding the layout of Roman Barcelona.

Beyond the paving, archaeologists discovered hydraulic systems, including two deep square wells connected by a siphon, suggesting a sophisticated fountain or water-management feature. In a rare display

of public-private cooperation, the hotel owners, Gargallo Hotels, financed the entire project and adapted their construction plans to preserve the ruins in situ. The site will be integrated into the hotel, with plans for occasional guided public tours, allowing visitors to stand exactly where the citizens of Barcino once gathered two millennia ago.

Queuing up for an appointment at the foreigners’ office.

SPAIN’S February 2026 inflation data reveal uneven price rises in essential food items, with eggs climbing approximately 30 per cent year-on-year, far exceeding the headline 2.3 per cent inflation rate. Eggs, a high-rotation staple, have become a visible marker of cost-ofliving pressures, directly affecting household grocery expenses.

Factors driving this surge include higher production costs, energy and transport expenses, supply chain bottlenecks, seasonal variations, and global commodity trends. Meanwhile, some other staples, like olive oil, have seen price declines, reflecting the uneven nature of food inflation. Households

SPANISH immigration offices are bracing for a logistical crisis as a massive regularisation programme begins this spring. The government plan, approved in January, plans to grant residency to approximately 500,000 undocumented migrants. However, applicant numbers could reach as many as 1.35 million.

Residency chaos

The application window runs from April 6 to June 30. Without additional staffing or funding, this increase threatens to overwhelm systems, causing significant delays for British expats and other legal residents renewing existing per-

mits. Experts warn that appointment wait times in high-density provinces like Malaga and Alicante could stretch into autumn.

To avoid the chaos, legal residents should submit renewal requests as early as possible.

Eggs on the rise

Economists note that sector-specific pressures can disproportionately affect consumer perceptions of inflation.

are adjusting by buying larger packs or substituting alternative proteins.

Economists note that sec-

tor-specific pressures can disproportionately affect consumer perceptions of inflation, even when general

measures suggest stability. Food prices remain volatile due to production conditions and market fluctuations, and similar trends are observed across Europe, highlighting the need for consumers to monitor essential item costs closely.

Looking forward, seasonal factors and commodity markets will shape price movements. Despite headline inflation remaining moderate, selective rises in staples like eggs demonstrate that everyday expenses may increase faster than broader indicators suggest, impacting household budgets and shopping behaviour.

Applicants must get a cita previa (appointment) online and ensure all paperwork, including proof of income, healthcare, and clean criminal record certificates, to avoid rejections.

While a ‘resguardo’ receipt protects your legal status during processing, a backlog may still complicate banking and travel.

Too noisy for Morrissey

BRITISH indie rock icon

Morrissey has sparked controversy after abruptly cancelling his debut performance in Valencia. The former Smiths frontman, 66, reportedly reached his ‘tether’s end’ following a two-day bus journey from Milan, citing the relentless noise of the city’s famous Las Fallas festival.

The singer’s official website claimed the constant ‘rhythmic thud’ of techno music, firecrackers, and megaphone announcements left him in a ‘catatonic state’. Rather than relocating to a quieter hotel, Morrissey opted to scrap the sold-out show at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. Nearly 1,500 fans, who had purchased tickets within minutes of them going on sale, were left in limbo.

Promoters have yet to issue a formal cancellation notice or provide details regarding refunds.

The disruption coincides with the UNESCO-listed Las Fallas, an annual event on the eastern Mediterranean coast known for round-theclock street parties and pyrotechnics. While the festival symbolises cultural renewal, it proved a step too far for the outspoken singer. This cancellation mar -

ks a rocky start to his tour promoting Make-up Is a Lie, his first album in six years. Fans now look ahead to his scheduled appearances in Zaragoza on Saturday, March 14, and Sevilla on Monday, March 16. Whether these dates will proceed remains uncertain given the singer’s temperamental reputation.

Spain tracks online hate

SPAIN’S government has unveiled a new artificial-intelligence system designed to monitor hate speech across social media platforms. The initiative, announced by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, aims to measure how hateful and polarising content spreads online and how algorithms may amplify it.

The tool, called HODIO - short for Huella del Odio y la Polarización (Footprint of Hatred and Polarisation) - will analyse large volumes of public social media posts to track patterns of harmful content.

While it does not monitor private messages or individual users, it will examine trends across major platforms.

Officials say the goal is to create greater transparency around online hate. Once operational, the system is expected to publish regular pu-

blic reports comparing how platforms respond to harmful content and how widely it spreads. However, the tool has not yet been rolled out and authorities have not confirmed when it will become active.

For residents in Spain, including expatriates, the change will likely operate largely in the background. The system does not introduce new rules for users or direct -

ly remove posts. Instead, it gathers data about how hate speech circulates online.

Over time, those findings could increase pressure on social media companies to improve moderation and transparency.

Spain’s government has already signalled interest in stronger oversight of tech platforms, particularly around harmful content.

I’m losing the plot

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

IF you even bothered to watch it, I’ve no doubt you thoroughly enjoyed the cock up at the Oscars ceremony this week. As usual the ‘stars,’ who often find it impossible to connect two words without a script, were utterly tongue tied at the award, producing more waffles than Dicks fast food Diner.

True to form, in their usual predictable arrogance, a number of them subsequently decided to use the opportunity to spout their knowledge of world affairs.

Why is it, that purely because they have attained success in their particular field, they automatically assume they have now earned the right to deliver their political views to all and sundry? As entertainers, theirs is primarily a profession that should help its fans to escape, not indulge in the trials and tribulations of our real, often depressing existence.

Why don’t they stick to what they are grossly overpaid for? We also need to re-

member that most of the ‘stars’ of the acting industry are uneducated drop outs. High school failures, who decided that egotistic greatness was more important than educational gratification. Hardly the qualifications that give them the right to advise us on world issues. If I want to listen to politicians I’ll tune in to ‘Politics Today’ or ‘PMQ.’ Give us a break.

They are of course often encouraged to regale us with rubbish. I actually recall that when I achieved my ‘overnight stardom’, (twinkle twinkle!), I was suddenly inundated by a whole host of media outlets for my views on just about everything; from politics to purism.

All I had actually achieved to suddenly become an authority on all these Earthly affairs, was to warble a three minute, albeit quite catchy, tune on a bit of vinal! Hardly a qualification to become a bottomless pit of invaluable knowledge! Couldn’t help but also notice how many ordinary everyday words seem to have disappeared from the English language. Especially from the woke impregnated TV newscasters. Not because they were rude, not because they were vindictive. Simply because, somewhere along the line, someone, somewhere de-

cided they might possibly upset somebody else. So out they went.

It’s like having a censor sitting on your shoulder with a red pen. You start a perfectly innocent sentence and halfway through it your brain suddenly shouts ‘careful’ and you change direction like avoiding a pothole.

Take something as simple as describing a person. Once upon a time you could describe them as tall, short, thin, large, old, scruffy, smart, grumpy, young, cheerful or a dozen other harmless observations. They weren’t insults, they were descriptions Now you hesitate and mentally sift through a list of acceptable alternatives before committing yourself.

Even compliments have become tricky territory. You tell someone they look well and immediately worry that they will assume you mean you previously thought they looked dreadful. You admire a person’s energy and then wonder if that somehow implies criticism of another who prefers an afternoon cup of tea.

I dunno, perhaps I’m losing track of the plot, but then I’m a columnist innit! 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.

What weather at Easter?

SPAIN prepares for a classic spring mix as Semana Santa 2026 approaches, running from Saturday, March 28 to

What weather will we have on the Spanish Costas this Easter?

Monday, April 6. While long-range forecasts remain subject to spring’s notorious unpredictability, early trends suggest a mostly mild outlook for the millions expected to attend traditional processions or head to the coast.

Holiday highlights include Jueves Santo on Thursday, April 2 and Viernes Santo on Friday, April 3. Meteorologists indicate a 60 to 70 per cent probability of warmer-than-normal conditions across the peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Southern regions like Andalusia typically see highs of 23°C, though inland cities such as Madrid may feel fresher at 18°C.

However, visitors should prepare for the occasional dampener. Historical data shows a 70 to 80 per cent chance of rain during Easter week. Atlantic ridges could bring showers, particularly to the north, making waterproofs essential for those watching outdoor parades. Travel is expected to remain smooth, though tourists from outside the Schengen area are advised to arrive at airports an hour early to navigate the Entry/Exit System (EES) digital gates. While hotel prices in hubs like Seville remain elevated, the mild climate continues to draw northern Europeans seeking a respite from the cold. Travellers are encouraged to pack layers, as evening temperatures will drop significantly once the sun sets.

ALMERIA

Credit: Shutterstock, Skreidzeleu

Tierra y Mar - Garrucha RESTAURANT REVIEW

TIERRA Y MAR, the restaurant where the finest flavours from the land and the sea are served to you on a platter.

A well-cooked steak or fresh fish dish are a dime a dozen on the Spanish coast. What truly sets Tierra y Mar apart is their impeccable presentation.

They don’t just experiment with flavours, but also with colours and textures, constantly pushing the boundaries. At Tierra y Mar you’re not just eating your dinner, you’re eating a work of art. With one look at the stunning plates, it’s evident how much care and attention has gone into every small detail.

By far their most standout dish, the one that perfectly encapsulates what this establishment stands for is the ‘Tierra y Mar for two’. This surf n turf sharing platter consists of a rib eye and

grilled prawns with sautéed vegetables, hand cut chips and a delicious home-made sauce. After finishing the generous serving, you might have room for a pudding, but you certainly won’t go home hungry.

Tierra y Mar’s motto is ‘eat good food with good people’. They’ve got the good food covered, diners

only need to find good people to eat with.

Tierra y Mar can be found at Paseo del Malexon, 14 in Garrucha. To reserve a table, contact 643 463 940.

Los Rebeldes rock

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL fans are in for a treat as the legendary band, Los Rebeldes, take to the stage in Vicar on Friday March 20, for a night of high-octane music. The concert forms part of their 2026 national tour, which celebrates their influence on the Spanish rock and rockabilly scene. Led by the charismatic frontman Carlos Segarra, Los Rebeldes have been a force in Spanish rock since the 1970s. Generations of fans have become entranced by their high energy rock ‘n’ roll spirit. One thing you’ll never see at their concert is someone sat looking bored.

The upcoming show will take place

Celebrating the classics

ON Sunday, March 29, La Fiesta Bar and Restaurant in Arboleas is hosting a spectacular afternoon of music. The sensational Emma Wild will be bringing the very best moments of Grease and Dirty Dancing to life. Whether you’re a fan of Sandy’s classic charm or Baby’s iconic moves, this is a chance to relieve the magic of two of the most beloved cinematic classics.

Get ready to step into the world of your favourite movies, with timeless hits and unforgettable dance moves.

Expect live vocals, high-energy performances, and all your favourite

tunes that will no doubt have everyone singing and dancing along. Fancy dress is optional and definitely encouraged. Why not embrace the theme, and channel your inner 1950s or 1980s star for the ultimate experience?

Beginning at 3.00pm, this event promises laughter, music and a whole lot of dancing. Grab your friends, put on your dancing and prepare for an afternoon packed with feel good-tunes, nostalgia and sheer fun.

For more information or to reserve your spot on the dance floor, contact 711 054 238.

Saturday night fever

GRAB your bellbottoms, dust off your go-go boots and head down to the Hotel Continental’s ‘Saturday Night Fever’ event for a night of groovy oldschool hits.

at the Teatro Auditoria Ciudad de Vicar. When Los Rebeldes take to the stage at 10.00pm, attendees can expect a set that blends fan-favourite songs from their iconic catalogue, and new music fans are sure to love.

For long-time followers and newcomers alike, this event offers a rare chance to experience the raw, authentic sound that has defined Los Rebeldes’ lengthy career. Whether you’re drawn by nostalgia or curious about Spain’s rock heritage, this Almeria concert promises to be a highlight of the spring music calendar. Tickets are available for as low as €28.00 through entradas360.com.

Step back into a by-gone era on Saturday March 21 and dance the night away to the sounds that defined a generation.

Tony ‘Soulman’ T Bone will be at the helm, DJ-ing the event and sending out a steady stream of classic 70s and 80s tracks. From funky disco grooves to timeless club anthems, he’ll keep the energy high and the dance floor alive all

out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mojacar’s Hotel Continental has built up a stellar reputation for their weekly liveentertainment. Every week they offer a varied programme, from Motown hits to club classics, there’s always a little something for everyone to dance along to.

Doors open at 8.30pm with free entry for all, it’s much cheaper than leasing a time machine.

night long. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night

For more information or to reserve your spot on the dance floor, contact 680 478 225 or 679 401 818.

TOPTrending

Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere

HIGH-PROFILE documentarian Louis Theroux takes a deep dive into the ‘manosphere’. In his newest Net ix feature Theroux immerses himself in the online world of alpha-male in uencers in an attempt to understand (and undermine) their toxic tendencies. He explores how spouting in ammatory opinions and misogynistic views has turned into a lucrative business for many. Theroux lets the men do the talking, not needing to rely on clever editing or overly probing questions to emphasise the absurdity of their belief system.

Zootropolis 2

WHEN the credits roll on the first Zootropolis film, audiences believe that the animal kingdom has learnt to live in happy coexistence. Zootropolis 2 reveals that may not be the case.

In this highly anticipated sequel, we are reunited with the chalk-and-cheese leads: the magnanimous Judy Hopps and the cunning but reformed Nick Wilde. Now working as partners for the

Zootropolis Police Department, the two must go undercover when a snake moves to town. With a distinct buddy-cop feel to it, this film certainly portrays a twisting tail.

Mediaeval tower collapse

A DRAMATIC partial collapse has struck one of Spain’s most historically important mediaeval fortresses, revealing the precarious state of historic heritage sites. A tower at the Castillo de Escalona in Toledo crumbled at approximately 10.30am on Saturday, March 14, sending clouds of dust and debris across the grounds.

Onlookers waiting to enter the site witnessed the structure give way. Fortunately, quick-thinking bystanders raised the alarm, allowing everyone to ee the immediate area. While no injuries were reported, falling masonry caused extensive damage to ve parked vehicles nearby.

The castle, which boasts over 1,000 years of history, only opened to the public

in April 2025. This followed the local council’s acquisition of the site in October 2024, a move intended to preserve the former private ruin as a cultural landmark. Ironically, restoration plans for the speci c tower that fell were already well advanced.

Mayor Álvaro Gutiérrez expressed the community’s ‘profound sadness’ following the incident. Authorities cordoned o the site and cancelled all upcoming tours.

Experts from the Directorate General of Heritage were scheduled to arrive on Sunday, March 15, to conduct a full structural audit.

Investigators currently believe the collapse was caused by age and structural fatigue rather than any external trigger.

Motorhome nomads

AS property prices soar and rentals decrease, an increasing number of people in Spain are swapping bricks and mortar for life on four wheels. Once a symbol of holiday freedom, motorhomes have become permanent residences for families and workers priced out of the traditional market.

The trend has accelerated since the introduction of the digital nomad visa in 2023. By late 2024, thousands of remote professionals had relocated to Spain, many choosing WiFi-equipped motorhome zones over expensive city flats. However, coastal hotspots like Ibiza, Mallorca, and Marbella are struggling.

Local authorities have reported overflowing car parks and beachside lay-bys, with some residents complaining of poor sanitation and

‘grey water’ drainage issues in areas where vehicles remain stationary for months.

Legally, Spain does not explicitly ban yearround motorhome living. However, the Directorate General of Traffic classifies them strictly as vehicles, not ‘habitual dwellings’. This creates a bureaucratic nightmare for the ‘Empadronamiento’ (local registration), which is essential for accessing healthcare and schools.

While industry body Aseicar insists these vehicles are for leisure and cannot solve the housing deficit, the nomadic population continues to grow. For many, the choice is simple: endure the legal grey areas and administrative hurdles, or face a housing market that no longer welcomes them.

Semana Santa

SEMANA Santa 2026 in Spain will run from Sunday March 29 to Sunday April 5, marking one of the year’s first major chances for residents to travel, rest or attend traditional celebrations. As Easter follows the lunar calendar - falling on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox - the dates shift annually. In 2026 they arrive slightly earlier than some expect. The only nationwide public holiday is Good Friday on April 3. Maundy Thursday on April 2 and Easter Monday on April 6 depend on the autonomous community, so the length of the break varies.

In Andalucia, Madrid, Galicia, Aragon, Asturias, Murcia and the Canary Islands, Maundy Thursday is also a public holiday, creating a four-day weekend from Thursday to Sunday. Easter Monday is recognised in Catalonia,

the Valencian Community, the Balearic Islands, Navarra, the Basque Country, La Rioja and Castilla-La Mancha. Some areas observe both days, effectively extending the spring break without additional leave. Checking regional calendars is essential when planning travel or booking time off.

Beyond its religious significance, Semana Santa is

one of Spain’s busiest travel periods. Warmer weather and longer days encourage domestic trips and city breaks. Destinations famed for processions, particularly in Andalucia, draw large crowds, while coastal and rural areas see an early seasonal surge. As demand rises, flights and accommodation often increase in price well before the holiday week.

SPAIN remains a primary destination for Britons seeking a new life abroad, and fresh housing data suggests one picturesque region is emerging as the most accessible entry point for wouldbe movers. While traditional hotspots like the Costa del Sol and Balearic Islands remain firmly on the radar, recent property figures indicate that northern Spain, particularly Galicia, now offers the highest concentration of available homes compared with other regions. For British buyers navigating rising prices in southern Europe, this shift could reshape where the next wave of relocations lands.

According to property market analyses, Galicia stands out due to a combination of ageing population trends, rural depopulation, and slower tourism development compared with Spain’s southern coasts.

These factors have created a larger supply of homes often at significantly

Hidden Spanish gems

lower prices than Mediterranean regions. In some Galician towns traditional stone houses and countryside properties can be found for a fraction of the cost of coastal apartments in the south.

For Britons considering a move, the takeaway is clear: Spain’s appeal is far from fading, but the geography of opportunity is shifting. Those willing to look beyond the usual hotspots may find that the dream of owning a home in Spain is still well within reach, just in places they may not have previously considered.

For the price of a small flat in London, or a villa in Marbella, Galicia offers a more authentic and affordable alternative.

Easter worship guide

FOR the hundreds of thousands of international residents and visitors currently in Spain, Holy Week, known locally as Semana Santa, represents one of the most significant periods of the year. While the iconic, dramatic processions that define the Spanish Easter experience are almost exclusively conducted in Spanish or regional languages, a robust network of English-language congregations ensures that worshippers can celebrate the holiday in their native tongue. From the bustling cathedrals of Madrid to the tranquil coastal chaplaincies of the Costa del Sol, naviga-

ting these services requires a bit of advanced planning, as schedules often differ from standard weekly routines.

In Madrid, the Our Lady of Mercy parish stands as a cornerstone of the English-speaking Catholic community, offering a full calendar of

liturgies throughout Holy Week. Similarly, Barcelona hosts a diverse international community where the Barcelona English Mass organisation coordinates regular services, and major landmarks like the Sagrada Família Basilica incorporate international participation into their Easter celebrations.

Across Spain’s coastal hubs, the landscape of worship is equally well-developed. The Costa Blanca, Costa Calida, and Costa del Sol feature extensive networks of Anglican chaplaincies and Catholic parishes, such as those found in Benidorm, Torrevieja, and Malaga, which offer dedicated English-language masses.

As these services are subject to change during the intense liturgical schedule of Holy Week, worshippers are strongly encouraged to consult official church websites or local parish notice boards well in advance to confirm exact times and locations for Good Friday and Easter Sunday observances.

Floating islands

DENMARK may have found a creative solution to the environmental crisis, installing floating wildflower islands into its beloved Copenhagen harbour, returning nature and wildlife to the big city setting.

These floating harbours will host plants, grass and wildflowers and are designed to serve as small natural habitats. They will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies and provide protected nesting areas for birds, each island functioning as a wildlife sanctuary.

Miracle survival

A YOUNG dog in Greece has amazed rescuers after surviving nine days alone on an icy mountain nearly 1,900 metres above sea level.

are battered by strong winds, making survival extremely difficult even for experienced climbers.

The underwater ecosystem will also benefit, as the underneath of the platforms act as artificial reefs, forming a new aquatic habitat.

One simple addition to the harbour, a space that serves an aesthetic purpose but not so much a practical one, will be transformative.

While the islands and the creatures that inhabit them are small, the project’s impact will be mighty. Made from materials recycled from old boats, the ecosystems the islands help foster will greatly help support biodiversity in areas lacking natural spaces.

The project’s architects, Marshal Blecher and Magnus Maarbjerg, envision a series of interconnected floating islands, serving both agricultural and social needs. The floating platforms would be open to the public, accessible by kayak, as urban gardens on water, fit for leisure and environmental conservation.

The nine-month-old puppy, named Asproulis, disappeared after following a group of visiting ski mountaineers who had stopped at a café in the small mountain village of Haliki, where he lives with his owner.

Curious and energetic, the puppy followed the hikers as they began climbing into the rugged mountains of northern Greece. But the steep, snow-covered terrain soon became too dangerous, leaving the young dog stranded high on the mountain near the Tsoukarela peak.

At that altitude, temperatures regularly drop below freezing and the exposed slopes

Despite the brutal conditions, the small dog managed to hold on for more than a week. His disappearance worried locals in the village, and word of the missing puppy spread among hikers and climbers in the area.

Hope finally arrived when a group of climbers heading toward the summit heard faint barking echoing across the snowy slopes.

After following the sound, they discovered the exhausted puppy alive but extremely weak, his collar hanging loosely around his neck after days without food.

“When the dog came down with us, he went to each one of us as if to say thank you, he was almost crying,” Koraki told NDTV.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Beckham boom

BRITISH fashion and beauty company, Victoria Beckham, increased sales by 19 per cent in 2025, totalling more than €156 million. The success is largely attributed to the brand’s new leather goods department, which generated 13 per cent of sales. Now the company’s focus is expanding physical retail locations internationally.

Rents soar

RENT prices continue to soar across Spain, as demand vastly outweighs supply, especially in major metropolitan areas and coastal towns. By far the most expensive city in February was Barcelona, where prices exceeded €30 per square metre, followed by Madrid at €29.61 and San Sebastian at €21.21.

Record-breaking

MERCADONA cements its place at the top of the supermarket food chain, closing 2025 with a record-breaking revenue of €41.9 billion. Net profit increased by 25 per cent to €1.729 billion. This allowed for the creation of 5,000 new jobs, and increased bonuses for over 115,000 employees.

Porsche cuts

PORSCHE plans 1,900 additional job cuts, after a €3.9 billion write-down from scaling back its electric vehicle strategy. Falling sales plus US tariffs and delayed electric models hurt profits. The company will now streamline operations, delay some electric cars, and focus more on petrol and hybrid vehicles.

Insurance probe

THE CNMC is probing potential anti-competitive practices in Spain’s insurance sector. Inspections focused on claims coverage, client data exchanges, fee arrangements, and professional vetoes. These actions could breach Article 1.1 of the Competition Defense Law and Article 101 of the EU Treaty.

Average UK house prices rose to £301,151, an annual growth of 1.3 per cent, according to Halifax

Telegraph takeover

AXEL SPRINGER has reached an agreement to purchase an iconic British institution, The Telegraph.

The all-cash deal for the Telegraph Media Group includes ownership of the Daily and Sunday Telegraph

These media outlets will join Axel Springer’s impressive portfolio, which includes Europe’s biggest newspaper, Bild, as well as digital brands such as Politico and Business Insider.

The German enterprise proposed an extraordinary £575 million deal that overshadowed the rival £500 million offer from Lord Rothermere, owner of the Daily Mail

The purchase effectively ended a lengthy battle over the ownership of the newspaper group and brought three years of uncertainty to a close. Telegraph staff are said to be put at ease, following three years of uncertainty since the Barclay family lost control of the group due to

£1.16 billion in unpaid debts to Lloyds bank. The titles were later put up for sale as creditors attempted to recover those debts, triggering a prolonged bidding process.

Mathias Dopfner, Axel Springer’s seasoned chief executive, has long desired a Telegraph takeover. He previously lost out to the Barclay brothers in 2004 who purchased the Telegraph for £665 million.

Dopfner emphasised that the

Supply chain strained

THE conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves worldwide, causing major disruptions to trade as transport routes close and logistical costs rise.

Air transport is currently feeling the brunt of the impact. Rates on Asia-Europe routes have almost doubled, rising from €2.26 to €3.41 per kilo. Asia-America routes have also increased significantly, from €3.53 to €5.13 per kilo.

This rise is driven by the almost immediate increase in fuel costs and the closure of critical transport corridors. Air transport enables high-speed turnover of collections and rapid retail delivery, something maritime transport cannot easily replicate.

Maritime shipping has also been affected, although at a more gradual pace. One key route is

publication’s editorial independence and legacy would be preserved while investing in technology, including artificial intelligence, to modernise its journalism. Moving forward, the company will focus on a rapid digital and US expansion, with the company aiming to strengthen the Telegraph’s global reach. If approved by regulators, the acquisition will mark Axel Springer’s long-awaited entry into the British newspaper market.

the Strait of Hormuz, through which around 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes. Due to escalating security concerns, the route is becoming difficult to use, adding pressure to global supply chains.

Leased fleet Absent workforce High ham exports

SPAIN’S cured ham exports reached 9.2 per cent growth in 2025. Exports exceeded 64,138.78 tons totalling €802.8 million in value. On average, hams sold abroad for €12.52 per kilo. The EU was the biggest market, accounting for 70 per cent of exports, or 45,046.91 tons. Outside of the EU, China and the UK stand out as the biggest markets, with the UK having the highest price of €17.6 kilos. Despite considerable gains, the swine fever outbreak could create challenges.

OFFICIAL data reveals 1,500,000 people - 7 per cent of the workforce - are absent every day, a total which is 68 per cent higher than the European average. Sickness is not the leading cause of absenteeism, rather family obligations account for the majority of absences. Followed by disability due to illness or injury, mental health and other personal matters.

Experts claim high absenteeism is due to a structural issue. An ageing workforce, the rise in mental health issues and a lack of work life balance all contribute. They suggest work-life balance support schemes may be the solution.

AS the cost of owning a car continues to rise, more and more drivers in Spain are turning to a more flexible alternative: leasing. Leasing a car is a more budget friendly option. There’s fewer upfront costs involved, and drivers can also easily predict their monthly expenses.

According to the Spanish Leasing and Renting Association (AELR) 54,429 lease agreements were registered as of February 2026, representing a 15.6 per cent increase on last year. Data reveals that one in five cars on the road were acquired through leasing, totalling 22.7 per cent of Spain’s registered fleet.

AN increasing number of companies are falling victim to cyberattacks, including big-name franchises like Jaguar Land Rover and Marks & Spencer’s. A recent study by S-RM found that 24.3 per cent of targeted companies paid ransom demands in 2025, up 14.4 per cent on 2024.

AI has become a weapon, used to infiltrate systems, identify sensitive information and target vulnerable threats. On average, ransom demands range from €10,000 to €1 million, with the average ransom payment being €254,000.

REPSOL has announced a new strategic plan that includes investing between €8.5 billion to €10 billion by 2028. Around 55 per cent of the total investment will be directed to Spain and Portugal, with the remainder largely focused on the United States. The plan aims to strengthen its multi-energy model, combining traditional oil and gas operations with lower-carbon initiatives such as renewable fuels, hydrogen and biomethane, while maintaining strong shareholder returns.

VODAFONETHREE may gain access to Virgin Media O2’s network in a potential wholesale deal, enabling it to expand broadband without building its own fibre network. For Virgin Media O2, the agreement could boost wholesale revenue and better utilise its infrastructure, reflecting a shift from a fully vertically integrated model. The move aligns with broader trends of fibre-sharing, supporting network economics and competition while expanding coverage without duplicating infrastructure.

3I Group 2.954,00 2.987,00 2.948,00 98,5K

Admiral Group 3.279,5 3.312,0 3.279,5 66,7K

Airtel Africa 350,80 353,00 348,80 155,78K

Anglo American 3.086,0 3.136,0 3.076,0 262,44K

Antofagasta 3.495,00 3.538,00 3.460,00 163,76K

Associated British Foods 1.866,0 1.874,0 1.861,0 50,05K

AstraZeneca 14.300,0 14.392,0 14.274,0 75,19K

Auto Trader Group Plc 488,10 497,00 486,50 205,05K

Aviva 632,99 636,40 629,62 610,07K

B&M European Value Retail SA 181,00 183,00 179,00 592,22K

BAE Systems

2.304,00 2.329,00 2.298,00 320,42K

Barclays 383,15 388,15 382,35 3,07M

Barratt Redrow 289,30 290,60 287,20 469,29K

Beazley 1.288,50 1.292,00 1.287,00 507,27K

Berkeley 3.682,0 3.706,0 3.652,0 17,33K

BP 542,20 546,00 538,43 8,33M

British American Tobacco 4.557,0 4.559,0 4.517,0 136,52K

BT Group 216,80 217,20 214,80 1,07M

Bunzl 2.306,0 2.318,0 2.300,0 54,45K

Centrica 207,20 207,80 205,90 622,27K

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.564,0 4.580,0 4.532,0 13,87K

Compass 2.262,00 2.277,00 2.254,00 97,19K

ConvaTec Group 235,00 238,00 234,80 185,23K

Croda Intl 2.648,1 2.687,0 2.642,0 23,05K DCC 4.696,0 4.760,0 4.696,0 9,05K Diageo 1.470,0 1.475,0 1.460,0 326,55K Diploma 5.025,00 5.080,00 5.015,00 17,26K

372,38 360,62 877,3K

537,00 550,40 536,60 95K

2.719,0 2.767,0 2.714,0 111,86K

1.221,00 1.226,00 1.219,87 57,72K

Entertainment 8.102,0 8.188,0 8.094,0 4,64K

675,50 691,50 671,50 7,26K

515,90 520,30 513,30 3,31M

BUSINESS EXTRA

Chatty app

IN collaboration with Nvidia and Deloitte Spain, Unicaja is developing a ‘conversational’ banking model. Using AI, customers will be able to ask financial questions or give instructions, striking up a conversation with the banking app. The project is part of UniCaja’s €250 million digital transformation and will be open to clients sometime in 2026.

Botin buys

BANCO SANTANDER president, Ana Botin, recently purchased 300,000 shares of the company for €3 million. In three transactions, she purchased 100,000 shares for an average price of €9.68, €9.48 and €9.79 per share. As of December 2025, Botin controlled 2.34 million Santander shares directly and another 31.5 million indirectly.

THE Euribor, the key benchmark for eurozone loans, has reached its highest level in 11 months, driven by concerns that inflation may rise due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran. This increase affects homeowners, renters, consumers, and businesses across Spain. Rising Euribor rates make borrowing more expensive for variable-rate mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, and business financing. Even households without loans may feel indirect impacts through higher rents, increased consumer prices, and costlier services. Popular areas such as Marbella, Fuengirola,

Euribor peaks

are expected

Sanctions standoff

RUSSIAN oligarch Roman Abramovich is battling with the British government over how £2.5 billion Chelsea FC proceeds should be spent. In 2022, the UK and EU imposed sanctions against Abramovich following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting a hasty sale of Chelsea FC. This money now sits in limbo, locked in a UK bank account

as Abramovich and British officials disagree on how the funds should be used going forward.

Britain wants to allocate the money to Ukraine to cover war costs, while Abramovich said the money would be used “for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine”, signalling the money could go to Russian recipients.

Local advisers recommend residents review loan agreements, track Euribor levels, and consider fixed-rate options to protect against rising repayments. Renters should monitor rental agreements, while businesses may need to adjust budgets for higher financing costs.

The rise reflects broader economic concerns: energy price increases and inflation expectations could keep the European Central Bank from lowering interest rates soon. While homeowners with mortgages are directly affected, all residents should be aware that higher borrowing costs could influence household budgets, spending, and the overall cost of living.

Financial markets will continue monitoring developments, and residents are advised to plan ahead for potential longer-term impacts on borrowing and everyday expenses.

Murray invests

TENNIS champion Andy Murray has reportedly joined a star-studded cohort of investors, supporting luxury golf brand, Manors, in their latest round of funding. The UK company plans to leverage its collected £3 million investment to fuel its international expansion into the US market.

Historic funding

‘GODFATHER of AI’ Yann LeCun’s new start-up Advanced Machine Intelligence (AMI) raised €1 billion, the largest seed funding round in Europe. His new company has the goal of creating an artificial intelligence capable of understanding the physical world, with the long-time goal of powering robots and autonomous cars.

Ryanair expands in Poland

RYANAIR has announced a major expansion at Kraków John Paul II International Airport ahead of the summer 2026 season, committing $1.5 billion to its Polish operations. The airline will base 15 Boeing 737 aircraft in Kraków, up from 12, and launch four new international routes to Amman, Budapest, Bucharest, and Sofia. This move forms part of a record summer schedule that will offer 86 routes from Kraków, making it one of Ryanair’s largest European hubs. Chief executive Michael O’Leary described the city as a “key investment location,” em phasising its strategic value for Central European connectivity.

eight million this year. Popular destinations from Kraków include Italy, the UK, Spain, Ireland, and Greece. Ryanair’s investment also includes a Boeing 737 simulator and crew training centre, the first of its kind in Poland, supporting local employment and skill development.

Fighting the ‘curse of Porto’

LOW-COST high-speed rail operator Oigo recently launched an unusual campaign aimed at couples travelling to Porto, a city linked online with a strange relationship superstition.

Ouigo’s promotion, titled ‘Change your destiny by changing your destination’, runs during Easter Week and targets the so-called ‘Curse of Porto’. The viral claim suggested that couples who visited the Portuguese city together - particularly those who crossed the Dom Luís I Bridge between Porto and Gaia - would break up soon after their trip.

rrative on its head by giving couples the chance to swap their destination.

The expansion is expected to increase passenger traffic by roughly 13 bringing total annual volumes to around

Authorities highlighted Kraków Airport’s role as Poland’s second-busiest airport and a regional transport hub. The new routes enhance connectivity across Central and Eastern Europe, while the Amman service expands operations beyond Europe. Overall, Ryanair’s growth in Kraków underscores its strategic network development, catering to rising low-cost travel demand, boosting the local economy, and strengthening the airport’s international profile.

The theory spread lar-

Travellers who sent the company proof that they were heading to Porto

the traveller’s name, date of travel and destination. Participants were also encouraged to include details such as reservation codes, QR or boarding

23 Years of Sustainable Growth for Currencies Direct Spain

Celebrating the leadership, vision and legacy of Peter Loveday after more than two decades guiding Currencies Direct across Southern Europe.

Mr Peter Loveday

AFTER 23 remarkable years of leadership, Currencies Direct Managing Director Southern Europe

Peter Loveday steps into retirement leaving behind a legacy that will shape the company for generations to come. What began as a four-person foreign exchange start-up with two offices in Spain has grown into a thriving operation comprising 21 offices across the Iberian coastline and more than 100 talented professionals.

This extraordinary journey reflects not only commercial success, but vision, resilience and an unwavering commitment to people.

From day one, Peter believed growth should never come at the expense of values. In an industry often driven purely by numbers, he built a business grounded in trust, transparency and long-term relationships. Clients were never simply transactions but partners, and colleagues were never just employees but a team working towards a shared purpose.

Under his leadership, Currencies Direct successfully navigated market volatility, regulatory change following Brexit, global uncertainty and even a global pandemic, emerging stronger each time. Strategic discipline and entrepreneurial courage enabled sustainable expansion while maintaining a clear focus on long-term stability.

Perhaps Peter’s greatest achievement is the culture he cultivated - one where integrity guides decisions, collaboration drives innovation and relationships always come before revenue. He firmly believed that when clients and partners come first, success naturally follows.

As he retires, we celebrate not only the milestones achieved but the strong foundation laid for the future. His vision transformed a small foreign exchange operation into a respected market leader and a thriving professional community.

The entire Currencies Direct team thank him for his leadership, his belief in people and the enduring values that will continue to guide the business forward.

Pete also has a passion for sailing and we wish him many happy hours enjoying the Mediterranean Sea and beyond.

A personal tribute from Michel and Steven Euesden Euro Weekly News

FOLLOWING this tribute to Peter Loveday’s leadership, Michel and Steven Euesden, on behalf of everyone at the Euro Weekly News , would also like to extend their sincere thanks to Peter and the exceptional team he has built over the past 23 years.

Our relationship with Peter has never been purely commercial. Over more than two decades, it has grown into a genuine friendship built on mutual respect, shared values and a commitment to the international community that calls Spain home.

Throughout this time, Peter has remained unwaveringly focused on the success of Currencies Direct, helping establish the company as one of the most trusted and respected names in foreign exchange. He is a true gentleman, yet beneath that calm and courteous manner lies a quiet strength and determination that has always been devoted to the well-being and success of the business he helped build.

His commitment to his team has always been paramount, earning him the loyalty and admiration of colleagues who have worked alongside him for many years.

What many may not fully realise, however, is the depth of Peter’s devotion to the wider community. Over the years he has supported countless charitable initiatives and events across the Iberian Peninsula, many organised by the Euro Weekly News . His generosity has extended not only through the Currencies Direct brand, but personally as well.

In more than three decades working within this vibrant expatriate community we have seen many outstanding businesses strengthen its fabric and help ensure its continued prosperity. Yet very few individuals have made the lasting impact that Peter Loveday has achieved.

A devoted family man with a moral compass to be admired, Peter represents the very best qualities of leadership. It is therefore no surprise that Currencies Direct continues to lead the way today after so many years with such a remarkable man at the helm.

As Peter begins a well-deserved retirement, we simply say thank you - for the friendship, the loyalty to the community and the unwavering support he has shown for so many years.

We wish him many happy hours ahead sailing the Mediterranean and beyond.

Zorba: Master of the alley - Part II

FROM COAST TO COAST

DEAR friends, this week I continue the story of Zorba, who is not just a street cat, but part of our urban wildlife. Some people are bothered by them; I don’t understand why, but I respect their opinions. For me, it doesn’t bother me at all: I feel a moral duty to help anyone in need. Many people share this care - volunteers dedicate their time, and veterinarians even sterilise the cats for free or at very low cost.

There’s a lot of activism supporting these colonies, though more helping hands and financial support are always welcome. And as they say in Spain, para gustos los colores (to each their own)… a huge thank you to everyone improving these furry friends’ lives.

Now, Zorba. This shiny black cat rules the street in front of my office… though it’s not all easy for him. He doesn’t have a single tooth and eats as if he hadn’t eaten in years. Give him a whole watermelon, and he’d gobble it without a second thought!

The funniest part is when he hears his sachet being opened: in an instant, while the leaves part before him, he joins the line, making that face as if he hadn’t eaten in centuries and shedding his cloak of pride and dignity. He can’t resist giving Marifé and Félix a playful swat or two, all with chaotic majesty.

Every morning, half-asleep, I check on them: food and water bowls full? Check. Water clean? Check. Only then can I head into the office.

“I’ll see you tonight, guys,” I mutter. They’re usually invisible - sleeping, hidden in secret spaces only they know. Who really knows the lives of these spoiled alley cats that everyone on the block adores?

They’re friendly, mostly. But little spats happen.

Marifé chases you everywhere, meowing non-stop, reporting every street scandal like the queen of Gossipland.

Zorba, on the other hand, is calm, cool, and completely unbothered. The power struggle is real - I even recorded it and uploaded it to TikTok. Almost viral!

Then one night, as I was leaving, a neighbour grabbed food from his car. In a twist of fate… Zorba’s tail got trapped between the door and the frame.

“Zorba, I’m so sorry!” the neighbour whispered, mortified.

But Zorba stayed perfectly still, staring at his tail, bent in a perfect Z-shape like a tiny antenna. Slightly in pain, but not enough to panic.

“Should I take you to the doctor?” the kind man asked. But Zorba, as if by magic, straightened his tail - perfect and rubbery. Immediately, he followed him with tiny dancing steps, alongside Marifé, who watched in astonishment, and Félix, perched in a tree, claiming to have seen nothing.

The story continues.

Historic damage

AN ancient fort in County Donegal has suffered significant damage after scrambler bikes were ridden within its walls.

An Grianán of Aileach, a hilltop fort dating back to the ninth century BC, is one of the county’s most historic sites. Officials from the Irish government’s Office of Public Works (OPW) confirmed they were aware of harm to the ‘ground surface inside the fort’. Gardaí are investigating the incident. Authorities reported that the damage occurred between 13.00 on March 6 and 14.15 on March 9. Local representatives expressed shock at the events. Buncrana County Councillor Jack Murray des-

cribed the destruction as “absolutely disgraceful,” noting the site’s significance to the local community and visitors alike.

The historic Burt hillfort, a landmark in the Inishowen region, was left scarred after the weekend activity.

The site, which draws tourists from across Ireland, is considered among the county’s most important heritage locations and dates back to the early sixth century.

This incident has raised concerns over the protection of ancient monuments and the need for increased monitoring of vulnerable sites.

Spoiler alert! Which country most resembles Britain?

BRITISH politicians have developed a curious habit: whenever they want a new idea, they book a flight to Denmark. Since becoming Home Secretary last September, Shabana Mahmood has sent officials there to admire its tough asylum system, following earlier trips to study cycling, drugs policy and green energy. Hopefully the British state gets a generous discount on Copenhagen’s hotels!

The problem is that Denmark is not Britain. Nor is Sweden, another Westminster favourite. Both are smaller, richer, happier, more highly taxed and less religious. America, scrutinised by MPs, is hardly a closer fit.

So which country is Britain most like? Researchers compared OECD nations across 10 measures, from population size and income to alcohol consumption, religion and family life.

Canada and France came close. Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands followed. But the closest match of all turned out to be: SPAIN!

This may surprise Britons who spent large parts of the past five centuries alternately warring with and ignoring Spain, frequently insulting its inhabitants.

George Orwell famously complained chorizo tasted of soap! Yet the similarities run deep: both nations built vast empires, lost them and stitched together uneasy kingdoms.

Spain was once seen as Europe’s edge. Britain (since Brexit) now knows the feeling. Basically, Britons adore Spain, visiting it twice as much as France in 2024. Perhaps Westminster should look south instead?

Finally, thanks for emails to my website below! Thrilled 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.

Why Mediterranean food is so simple: And why that’s the secret to living well

ONE thing often surprises people when they first experience real Mediterranean food.

It’s not complicated.

Fresh tomatoes, olive oil, grilled fish, vegetables, bread, herbs and meals shared with friends. No long ingredient lists. No heavy sauces. Just simple ingredients prepared well. And that simplicity may be one of the reasons people living around the Mediterranean Sea have historically been among the healthiest and longest-living populations in the world.

Researchers have studied the Mediterranean diet for decades. It is linked to better heart health, improved blood

MEDITERRANEAN

LIFESTYLE

sugar balance, strong brain function and a longer life.

But the real secret is that it’s not just a diet, it’s a way of living.

Food is fresh and seasonal. Movement happens naturally throughout the day. People

spend time outdoors, share meals and enjoy life without constant stress. And perhaps most importantly, it doesn’t feel like punishment.

There are no harsh restrictions or endless rules. Mediterranean living is about enjoying food, movement and connection with others.

For many people today, health has become confusing. Diets come and go and advice constantly changes.

The Mediterranean way offers something simpler: balance, fresh food, daily movement and a slower rhythm of life.

To read the full article and learn more about Mediterranean living, visit the Euro Weekly News website

You can also find more ideas and activities at www.casamiguel.life

BURNOUT is a globally recognised syndrome, classified by WHO as an ‘occupational phenomenon’. It’s a physical, mental and emotional state of extreme exhaustion brought on by long-term stress.

Burnout doesn’t manifest overnight, it’s develops after years of stress compounds. It can be identified through a variety of physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms. Burnout makes a person feel detached from reality, demotivated to function, causing anxiety and manifesting as painful physical symptoms.

There’s no quick burnout fix. It took a while to reach that point of exhaustion, and it’ll take a while to claw yourself back out. But it is possible.

If in doubt on where to get started, prioritise the four foundations of health: sleep, exercise, nutrition and stress management.

From there, set firm

Beat burnout

Don’t let burnout get you down.

boundaries and outline achievable goals. It’s very important not to take on more than you can comfortably carry. And once you do reach these small goals, celebrate as much as you would the big wins.

Making time for yourself will help considerably. Carve out time in

your schedule for uninterrupted ‘me time’. It could be anything from a weekend away to drinking a coffee in peace, without multi-tasking. Whatever ‘me time’ you take, make sure it’s completely removed from what was causing you stress in the first place.

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol TechPark record highs

MALAGA’S reputation as the ‘Silicon Valley of Southern Europe’ reached new heights in 2025, with the Parque Tecnológico de Andalucia (PTA) reporting record-breaking growth across all sectors. According to year-end data released on Monday, March 16, the tech hub now employs over 29,000 professionals, marking a 3.8 per cent annual increase. Notably, 94 per cent of these workers reside in Malaga Province, highlighting the park’s role in local talent retention.

Total turnover surged by 17 per cent to reach €4.9 billion. While telecommunications remains the dominant force - employing 52 per cent of the workforce - the microelectronics sector is gaining significant momentum, bolstered by the imminent arrival of the research giant IMEC.

Global leaders including Google, Vodafone, and Oracle continue to anchor the park, driving private R&D investment up by over 50 per cent to €54.5 million.

Axarquia Plans to fill beaches

ALMUÑECAR is sharpening its coastal appeal attractiveness of the peak tourist season. Local authorities have approved 60 new business concessions under the latest Plan de Explotación de Playas, covering the popular shores of both Almuñecar and neighbouring La Herradura.

The move guarantees a wide range of seasonal facilities will be ready for visitors. Concession holders are set to provide traditional sun umbrellas and loungers, alongside leisure equipment such as pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and floating trampolines.

These services are vital for the ‘Sexitano’ coastline, encouraging holidaymakers to spend longer on the beaches and support nearby seafront restaurants.

The awarding process, led by the council, follows months of preparation dating back to June 2025. Other than improving the town’s tourism image, the plan provides a significant economic boost to the community.

Mallorca Sunbathing goes digital

MALLORCA beach days are getting a digital upgrade. Calvia Town Hall has introduced a new mobile booking system that allows beachgoers to reserve sunbeds and parasols in advance, changing how residents and visitors plan time on the sand. The move comes as several popular beaches in the southwest of Mallorca reopen for the season, but it’s the new tech that’s drawing the most attention from locals and expatriates.

For the first time, visitors will be able to reserve loungers and umbrellas using a mobile app instead of searching for available sunbeds when they arrive. By checking availability and booking ahead, beachgoers can secure their place before leaving home. Officials say the app is designed to improve accessibility and streamline beach services.

The booking system launches alongside the reopening of six beaches in Calvia: Es Carregador, Na Nadala and Son Maties in Palmanova, and Palmira, Torà and La Romana in Peguera.

Costa Blanca South Shamrock spectacle

ORIHUELA Costa was painted in shamrock green for the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest parade celebrations on the Costa Blanca.

The famed event, considered the most important on the festive calendar of Orihuela Costa, boasted an attendance of 30,000 people and featured the participation of more than 50 groups, dressed up and dancing for this widely-celebrated cultural holiday. This event, once more, transformed the streets of the municipality into a widespread festival of colour and music in celebration of St Patrick’s Day, a holiday that commemorates the death of the patron saint of Ireland.

The long-awaited parade set off from Calle Agua, and looped back around for the main event on the famous Cabo Roig Strip, filled with merrymaking locals and visitors. Drummers, dancers, bagpipe players, stilt walkers, musicians, and circus performers were the main highlight of the parade, as well as the typical Irish food and drink.

Costa Blanca North Costa del Cheltenham

BENIDORM once again transformed into ‘Costa del Cheltenham’, as thousands of British racing fans flocked to the Costa Blanca to watch this year’s famous horse-racing festival. The event ran from Tuesday March 10 to Friday March 13, with bars, pubs and hotels across the resort packed with visitors following every race live on big screens. Travel figures showed just how big the trend has become, with hotel bookings soaring by 225 per cent compared with previous years - making 2026 one of the biggest Cheltenham weeks Benidorm has seen. Not everything went exactly as expected for visitors hoping for spring sunshine. The first two days of the festival brought unsettled weather and rain, pushing many race fans indoors to crowded sports bars and pubs. But by day three the skies cleared and the sun returned, allowing terraces and beachfront venues to fill with cheering crowds as the racing reached its final stages.

Estimates suggest around 40,000 British visitors travelled to Benidorm during the four-day festival.

ATHLETES in the Region of Murcia got the opportunity to participate in the 12th edition of the Alcantarilla Air Base Popular Race, a special sports-based event in the area that also has a strong charitable focus. The event, which offered athletes a choice of the 14 kilometre or five kilometre lengths, was the fifth event of the Region of Murcia Running Challenge Circuit.

The races, organised by the Alcantarilla Air Base, the Murcia City Council and the Alcantarilla Town Council, the Municipal Board of Sangonera la Seca and the FAMU (the Athletics Federation of Murcia), both kicked off on the Calle Mayor in Alcantarilla, near Plaza Adolfo Suárez.

The race was also a charitable affair, with proceeds from registrations going to local charities and non-profit organisations, including the Blue Star Project Foundation, the Neighborhood Coordinator, Crece con Dabadá, and the Association of Families of Children with Cancer of the Region of Murcia.

Find pet-sitters who love pets to care for yours

OUR house-sitters are great pet lovers and exchange their time for free accommodation

Many home and pet owners worry about meeting new sitters. It is a natural concern. However, by doing the due diligence, choosing a good house-sitting platform and reading the reviews for both the platform and the house-sitters you will learn a great deal and then you can decide how to trust in your choice of sitter.

You 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 like old fashioned barter.

How it works

1. Register at HouseSitMatch.

Marijke loves animals, and has been housesitting with Housesit Match in Spain for years

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-siter. Your pets receive one-on-one attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Philippa - 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

CATS love laser pointers. They’ll happily try to catch the shining dot for hours. The same can’t be said for dogs. In fact, playing with lasers can be incredibly dangerous for dogs as there’s a possibility they could develop a condition called Laser Pointer Syndrome. It might sound silly, but the condition is serious. As a dog tries and fails to catch the laser, they become increasingly frustrated. Unlike a cat, who might get bored, dogs become transfixed and develop obsessive tendencies.

Laser danger

These OCD symptoms manifest in dogs constantly being on the lookout for the laser, even once it’s been put away. They become anxious and agitated. Always on edge, they will try to catch and leap at

other lights, shadows and reflections. It’s best to avoid playing with lasers around your pup.

Stick to fetch. Or alternatively, try playing with a flirt pole - a large pole with a toy attached by string. It will create a similar playful effect without the harmful results.

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR CONDITIONING

BUILDERS

ALMERIA BUILDERS: Fully Legal, Fully Insured, All Work Guaranteed. 659 685 133 www.almeriabuilders.com (253556)

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)

CHURCHES

Local Anglican (CofE) Church Services take place at Mojacar and Llanos del Peral (Zurgena) churches every Sunday 11am and at Aljambra Chapel (Albox) monthly. Dates and details of our services, including directions and contact details, can be found at  www. almeria-anglican.com. Here you can also find information about funerals, baptisms and wedding blessings. We are an inclusive church. (10002)

TURRE EVANGELICAL CHURCH

We meet every Sunday at 10.30. For worship. We believe you’ll find us ‘relaxed’, welcoming’ and ‘informal’. Find us on Turre’s main street, towards the motorway at the far end on the left. To know more contact 711 086 162 (10021)

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIONZurgena Branch meetings are now held at Hostal Rosaleda opposite New Bar International in Arboleas. New and Existing Members Welcome Branch Meetings for existing and new members are held on the 1st Thursday of the month, Coffee

Morning on the 3rd Thursday and a Quiz on the last Tuesday of the month. For further details please email zurgena. treasurer@rbl.community or zurgena.chairman@rbl. community if you or your partner served or are serving, and you feel you need help or support then contact us we are here for the small things as well as the big, sometimes talking to someone is the first step to feeling more in control. It can be a personal need or some help with your home or information on what or who to speak to on a medical issue, we help with signposting if we cannot help directly. (253989)

DRAINAGE

MOJACAR INSURANCE, ALBOX OFFICE: 950 121 943. Mojacar office: 634 323 399 (10003)

MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 952 147 834, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 952 147 834 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)

LANGUAGE CLASSES

5bonehotelturre@gmail.com fivebonehotel.com (312130)

PLUMBERS

KNOWLES PLUMBING No 1 for all plumbing jobs big or small. Central heating, solar hot water and water deposits. Tel: 684 143 560 (350290)

REMOVALS

AMANDA’S REMOVALS SpainUK. We won’t be beaten in price. 634 310 512 / 634 349 347

SITUATIONS VACANT

SALES advisor required in Turre, 12 hour contracted position. Applicants must be fluent in English and Spanish and have a valid driving license. We are looking for someone with excellent customer service skills and able to work on their own initiative. Applications by email only to revolutionsales@ protonmail.com (313740)

MOTORHOMES

LOOKING for motorhome or caravan. Fair price paid in cash. Tel 688 335 497 (350573)

SOLAR ENERGY

SOLAR WIND POWER

MOTORING FOR SALE

ESTATE AGENT

VOSS HOMES are a professional, British family-run Estate Agents with an office in Huercal-Overa town. They specialise in selling and renting properties in the Huercal-Overa, La Alfoquia, Zurgena & Taberno area. Andy, Anna, Jess, Adele, Hannah, Amy & Karen look forward to helping you buy, sell or rent your ideal property. Please call 672 634 849 for more information (283824)

INSURANCE

ALBOX INSURANCE contact us today for all your insurance needs. Albox Office: 950 121 943  Mojacar Office: 634 323 399 (313627)

AWARD-WINNING AGENT for ALL your insurance needs. GENERALI SEGUROS ALBOX/

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)

MOTORS WANTED

WE BUY high quality vehicles, also customs. No obligation offer. Tel 688 335 497

OTHERS

EDS? We have the solution, Kamagra pills & jells, Cialis, Sidenafil, over 7 products for men & ladies, mixed trial packs. Available by mail-order. WhatsApp or call 603 117 394

PETS

THE FIVE BONE HOTEL, TURRE. Little dogs €8.00, medium dogs €9.00, big dogs €10.00, cats from €7.50 a day. 630 234 556 / the-

SOLUTIONS. Over 20 years installation experience. Established 17 years in Spain. Call Phil for competitive prices on 636 261 240 or email info@ sunergyalmeria.com (350449)

MOTORING

Audi RS3 Competition Limited – five-cylinder final hurrah

ROAD TEST

By Mark Slack

TO celebrate the 50-year anniversary of its five-cylinder engine, Audi is unveiling an exclusive special-edition model: the RS 3 competition limited. With just 750 examples to be built worldwide, it stands as a final hurrah for a five-decade-long Audi success story. The inline five combines extraordinary performance with an unmistakable sound.

A legacy that began in 1976 with the second-generation Audi 100 is now at its height with the Audi RS 3 competition limited. To mark ‘50 years of five cylinders’, the German car maker has enhanced the RS 3 with numerous upgrades that will undoubtedly make the special edition highly sought after by collectors.

Sportiness informs all visual features of the Audi RS 3 - starting with matte carbon elements. These include two new canards on either front corner, which are arranged on top of each other and are made of carbon to match the vertical blades of the air curtains. Combined with the now split front lip, which is fitted

Key facts - Audi RS 3 competition limited

• Model: Audi RS 3 Sportback competition limited

• Production: 750 units worldwide

• UK allocation: 11 vehicles

• Engine: 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI (petrol)

• Power: 294 kW (400 PS)

• Torque: 500 Nm

• 0–100kph/62 mph: 3.8 seconds

• Top speed: 289kph/180 mph

• Price: €107,601/£92,855 OTR

• Deliveries: Q4 2026

matrix LED headlights are also unique to the special edition.

In the UK, all 11 examples will be finished in Malachite green. This iconic colour is reminiscent of the Audi Sport quattro that provided the basis for a golden age of rallying with five-cylinder power.

below the intakes, this makes the car appear even wider.

The 19-inch wheels with 10 cross spokes are finished in Neodymium gold matte and very much fill the arches. Mirror caps, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, all in matte carbon, as well as the matte carbon trim above the large functional diffuser complete the car’s rather technical appearance. Partial matting on the rear side window to show the model’s name underlines it even further. The darkened

Back in 1983, the Audi Sport quattro developed 225 kW (306 PS) and 350 Nm from 2.1 litres of displacement. Today, the inline five-cylinder engine of the Audi RS comes with 2.5 litres of displacement and boasts 294 kW (400 PS) and 500 Nm. The model accelerates from 0-100kph/62mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 289kph/180mph.

accelerates in 3.8 289kph/180mph.

nation

Ginger the

Inside the car there’s a colour combination of black, Neodymium gold, and Ginger white. The door lighting projects the lettering ‘RS 3 competition limited’ with the same adorning the black floor mats, the cover below the headrests, and the boot carpet. In the centre console, a matte serial number in front of the gear shift lever reflects the model’s limited run.

In the UK, the RS 3 competition limited is priced from £92,855 and deliveries of the 11 cars destined for the UK, and 25 for Spain, will begin towards the end of the year.

A SIGNIFICANT proposal has been submitted to Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) that could allow infants to travel in the front passenger seat. The Spanish Child Road Safety Alliance (AESVi) is spearheading the move, arguing that the change could prevent tragic fatalities caused by children being accidentally left in hot cars.

Find the cheapest petrol

DRIVERS across Spain are facing a sharp financial squeeze as fuel prices climb daily. Geopolitical instability in the Middle East, specifically conflict near the Strait of Hormuz, has disrupted global oil supplies. These tensions have driven crude prices higher and inflated insurance premiums for fuel transport.

In many urban areas, prices have already surged past €1.70 per litre for unleaded 95 and €1.80 for diesel. On Sunday, March 8, experts warned that these costs may remain high unless international tensions ease. For a standard 50-litre tank, price gaps between stations can exceed €10, making savvy refuelling essential for household budgets.

To combat this, the Ministry for Ecological Transition offers GeoPortal, a free digital tool providing real-time price updates from every service station in Spain. Updated every five minutes, the platform is available via geoportalgasolineras.es or the Ruta-E app.

The interface is available in English and allows users to filter searches by province, postcode, or specific fuel types, including electric charging points. By selecting ‘Most economical PS’ and ‘Search’, motorists can instantly identify the cheapest local options.

Combining these real-time insights with loyalty programmes from major chains like Repsol or Cepsa offers the best protection against the rising cost of living.

Front seat rule proposal

Under current Spanish law, children measuring 135cm or less must travel in the rear. The new proposal suggests allowing children up to three years old to sit in the front, provided they use a rear-facing restraint system and the airbag is deactivated. Proponents believe

constant visual contact between the driver and the child reduces the risk of ‘forgotten baby syndrome’, a phenomenon that turned fatal in 2025 when a toddler died in a parked car in Valls, Tarragona.

Medical experts warn that internal vehicle temperatures can rise by 10 degrees

in just 10 minutes, reaching a lethal 60 degrees within half an hour. Because infants are highly susceptible to heatstroke, death can occur in under 60 minutes.

While Spain currently maintains some of Europe’s strictest cabin safety rules, the DGT is now weighing the benefits of increased visibility against traditional rearseat safety.

National gymnasts gather

MORE than 650 gymnasts from across Spain travelled to Almeria to take part in the third National Rhythmic and Aesthetic Gymnastics Tournament organised by Club Deportivo Stella Maris. The competition took place at the Palacio de los Juegos Mediterráneos and attracted clubs from Madrid, Valencia, Cartagena, Murcia and several provinces of Andalucia. Participants competed across a wide range of levels, from pro-

mising young athletes to the absolute category.

The event once again placed the city on the national gymnastics map and drew large interest from spectators keen to watch performances on the competition floor.

Antonio Casimiro attended the event and presented medals to the gymnasts following the final routines.

Throughout the day, competitors demons-

sion. Carefully prepared choreographies filled the programme, showing months of training and dedication. In rhythmic gymnastics, athletes displayed precise handling of apparatus such as rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon, all performed in time with music.

Group aesthetic gymnastics routines also impressed the crowd, focusing on coordinated movement and synchro-

Backing future champions

SPAIN Walking Football has expanded its Future Champions Sponsorship Programme, designed to support promising young athletes aiming for success in national and international competition. The initiative provides financial assistance, mentoring and development support. This year it focuses on three emerging competitors: golfer Juan José Criado Palomo, motocross rider Torrin Lennon and boxer George Mitchell Graham.

Juan José Criado Palomo, from Alhaurin el Grande has developed into a strong amateur golfer after years training at Alhaurin Golf. Competing across the region, he has achieved several podium finishes and won events including the Tomate Huevo de Toro Tournament and the Alhaurin el Gran-

de Fair Tournament. Playing from a 7.4 handicap, his aim this season is to reduce that to three while taking part in more national tournaments.

Motocross rider Torrin Lennon was born on the Isle of Man and began riding a trials bike at the age of three. Now living in Benahavis, he secured the 2025 Andalucian 50cc Championship and the Cordoba 50cc Championship during his first full season racing in Spain. In 2026 he moves into the 65cc class with TCL Racing #33 on a Yamaha YZ65. Boxer George Mitchell Graham, based in Valencia, trains twice daily, six days a week. He won the 70kg National Championship in 2025 and the 66kg title in 2024, alongside five International Box Cup gold medals and two Bilbao Open victories.