The Andalucian - August 2011 by The Andalucían

Editor’s Slice Hello, I always look forward to August as, like the rest of Spain, we finally get to take some time off. This year is no different, except we are relocating the Andalucian Auctions to its new premises in Campillos, so it may be more of a busman’s holiday for a few weeks! Plus, as usual, I have a very long list of jobs and projects at home but I only ever get to scratch the surface as it’s just too hot – and the pool becomes too inviting. I tend to spend the summer battling to keep it clean, only to get the “Dad, can you take me to the local pool please.” We have some great articles again this month and one or two new contributors, especially local businesses. There are Trade Talk pieces from Scott the mechanic, Furniture Land, Kennedy Financial Services on QROPS and Beckii at Perfectas Salon. It seems that cancer is sadly affecting more and more of us – personally or through people we know – so I am pleased to give continual support to the Fundacion Cudeca and publish the ‘past and present’ article from Cudeca’s Katie O’Neill. Plus, I went along to support the wonderful people in Fuente de Piedra who organised a charity walk for Breast Cancer; see the report on page 16. I appreciate it’s an old joke – but I almost forgot to tell you… Dr Wildman-Chard has used her informative Health & Beauty slot this month to explore Alzheimer’s for us. It is important that we learn to understand more about such conditions which are rapidly and worryingly becoming household names. Next month, we have the second part of our Alzheimer’s reports with the publication of the Top 10 signs of the disease. If you’re thinking of going out and braving the heat, we have two very different places to visit this month, including the historic Bobastro and the very new and very blue Smurf Village. Whatever you choose to do this summer, I do hope you enjoy yourselves.

Mike Special thanks to our writers and contributors: Alice Marriott Beckii Smith Bev Gilmore David Shovelton-Fullick David Kennedy De Cotta Law Dr Wildman-Chard

Ella Durham Jean Joss John Wrightson Jo Shovelton-Fullick Katie O’Neill Stuart Langley Tricia Johnson

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Contents Contents Editor’s Slice Law & Order - Spanish criminal proceedings - the denuncia Roaming Andalucía - The ruthless rebel of Bobastro Short Story - Frozen in time Trade Talk - Furniture Land branches out Future Focus - Just how safe is our information?

Health & Beauty - Alzheimer’s disease do not get confused

Charity News - Not such a boob of an idea!

18 20 22 24

Wordsearch Trade Talk - It’s all a load of QROPS to me!

Trade Talk - Sunkissed skin - fake and factors

Roaming Andalucía - Smurfing the village blue

Alice’s Wonderland

Sport & Lesiure - Love and leadership talking to horses the natural way

Charity News - Fuducion Cudeca - past and present

Events and Group Meetings - Lift your spirits this September

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Trade Talk - A word of warning

Classified Adverts and Prize Competition Advertising Rates

Lifestyle - You’re not going out like that! Trade Talk - Alhaurín el Grande’s newest beauty spot

Next deadline: 16 August The Andalucían

C/Agricultores 6 Industrial Estate Sotoluz, Campillos 29320 Malaga

info@andalucianauctions.com www.andalucianauctions.com

Law & Order

Spanish criminal proceedings the denuncia

by De Cotta Law

Many of you will have been living in Spain for many years now and will know the word ‘denuncia.’ Unfortunately it is often used inaccurately and made to sound as if the person who has been denounced is guilty of a crime. A denuncia is a private criminal allegation against an individual, company or other legal body. A denuncia can also be made and served on a person by the police, guardia civil or state authority. When the allegation is made, the official drawing up the document – in most cases this is the local guardia civil – will only take the denuncia where there is some prima facie or preliminary evidence that a crime has been committed. This is important when, for example, a parent does not have any evidence such as a court order granting visits but wants to allege they have been deprived of contact with their children. In this type of case it is best to consult a Spanish abogado before seeking to make a private allegation.

Once the denuncia is made against a person or company, and if the allegation is not for a grave or serious offence leading to immediate arrest, it will be put before the local judge who will consider firstly if there is a need for an urgent or preventive measure. The time this will take will vary depending on the particular court. The judge in Spain is an investigating judge who will then call for witnesses and evidence. This is part of procedure called ‘diligencias previas’ or preliminary investigation. Witnesses are served with a request to attend the court and evidence will be called for by the judge who is in control of all of the information. This is not an adversarial procedure and on rare occasions, the whole investigation can be declared ‘secreto de sumario’ which means none of those involved will be given information on the investigation. Once this preliminary investigation has been done, and with the advice of the Ministerio Fiscal, the judge will then decide if the matter should be put before a full trial court. This will be a criminal courts or the provincial higher court, depending on the gravity of the alleged offence. If there is not sufficient evidence that a crime has been committed, the judge will archive the proceedings. NEWSFLASH - Important news maintenance claims in Europe

for

child

This month, a new European regulation comes into force to speed up the recovery of maintenance. This will have an immediate effect for the benefit of children and parents where the non-paying parent is living outside Spain – whether in England, Denmark, Holland or any other European country. If you wish more information on this particular topic or would like to discuss any matter raised in this article, contact Sandra Wrightson or Javier Florido on 952 527 014. For full contact details see the advert opposite.

Roaming Andalucía

The ruthless rebel of Bobastro

by John Wrightson

Have you heard of Umar ibn Hafsun ibn Ja'far ibn Salim or Omar Ben Hafsun, as he is better known in Spanish? Perhaps not. He may have lived some 1200 years ago, but his ghost still haunts the undulating plains and rugged sierras of Andalucía. We do not know the exact year of his birth. He was one of several children born to a Muladi (Muslim of Hispanic origin) family living and eking out a meagre existence amongst the hills around Ronda. From the outset, Omar was a precocious child and he grew into a youth of restless energy and enormous ambition. There were, of course, many such men in his time but he was soon making a reputation for himself as the most domineering and ruthless of them all. From his earliest days, he was an unquenchable revolutionary, his early life being constantly marked by acts of violent impetuosity: he had barely achieved manhood when, suspected of a most gruesome murder, he was forced to flee to the shores of Africa to escape his accusers.

In 880 AD, Omar returned to his homeland to find all of southern Spain enveloped in unbridled anarchy. The Moorish dynasty of Ommiad or Ummayad, richly ensconced in Cordoba, seemed powerless to quell the rising tide of conspiracies which were constantly threatening its precarious rule. The stench of revolt hung heavily over all Andalucía. It was a situation ready-made for Omar Ben Hafsun. Before long, he was leading the largest of the insurrections against his Moorish masters. He established a base for himself and his ever-increasing band of followers in a place they called Bobastro. There, amongst the lonely, wild and remote hills, a full day’s journey north of Málaga, east of Ronda and west of Antequera, he and his followers settled into their haven. And now, from this crude fortress, high in a wilderness of bald sandstone rocks and dense forests, Omar set out to plunder and harass the subjugated peoples of southern Spain. Few parts of Andalucía were beyond the reach of this early-day brigand and his violent mercenaries. At first, his successes, if such they can be called, were phenomenal. Between the years 883 and 886 he blazed a trail of insurrection all the way from Algeciras to Murcia and his skirmishers came to the very gates of Cordoba itself in order to harass and destroy the city’s weak and feeble emirates. In truth, Omar Ben Hafsun had little to offer but chaos. It came, though, as a rude shock to all who owed allegiance to him when in 889, and whilst he was at the height of his power, he suddenly and for no confessed reason converted to Christianity and took for himself the name of Samuel. Retiring to Bobastro, he built a little Mozarabic Rupestrian chapel where he worshipped daily and implored others to do likewise. Maybe it was inevitable that Omar’s fortunes should now begin to wane. Many of his erstwhile followers rejected his call to Christianity and deserted him. And back in Cordoba, a new and far more potent Arab leader had come to power who would vow to pursue Omar and exact a bloody revenge over him. Still undetected but increasingly ineffective, Omar Ben Hafsun died in 918. For a while, his sons continued to rebel against the newly-established Moorish

Roaming Andalucía

authority but they fortified much and achieved little. At last, in 928, the new Emir of Cordoba discovered and visited Omar’s bleak hiding place amongst the hills at Bobastro and vowed that there was indeed ‘no other place as strong and impregnable on earth.’ But these were vicious times. On the Emir’s order, Omar’s body was exhumed, taken to Cordoba and there quartered and publicly disgraced. The place they called Bobastro is now only a pale reflection of its ancient days. The once-swirling rivers below the forest slopes have since been channelled into dams and reservoirs around El Chorro, but there is still a mighty grandeur about the mountains which engulf you as you drive through the Ardales National Park and down the ravine from the lakes towards the great defile of Los Gaitanes. Only a few stone walls and rude foundations have survived Bobastro’s long years of solitude and decay. Parts of the old chapel, with it stately basilican proportions, survive but that is about all. Yet history and the pall of this place will not let it die; atop a peak of clustered pines, jagged stone, wild orchids and rare owls it still whispers its

sad story to the visitor. In place of swarming men in turbans and white robes, their scimitars swaying at their sides, today’s brightly-shirted visitors will carry their cameras and recall for posterity the distant saga of Omar Ben Hafsun.

Short Story

Frozen in time

by Ella Durham

Rachel was leaning over the frozen food cabinet when it happened. The shopping trolley which bumped into hers catapulted her forward, sending her headlong into the organic chickens and she ended up nose to parson’s nose. “What the…?” she cried, drawing herself back up, clinging desperately to the counter edge and a very large frozen chicken for balance. She swung round to face the culprit, intent on giving them a piece of her mind. “Oops! So sorry, I wasn’t looking where…,” she heard him say. Rachel gasped. The man with his hands on the offending trolley had a familiar face. “Mike?” “Blimey, Rachel! What are you doing here?” “I live around here. I’m, er, shopping,” she stammered, still staring into his face with disbelief. He gazed at her hands which clutched the frozen chicken as if it was a lifebelt.

He bit his lower lip in an effort not to laugh. She saw his amusement, and immediately threw the chicken back into the freezer cabinet and rubbed her cold fingers. She smiled, weakly, but felt her face burn. It had been such a long time since they’d met that she was amazed he had recognised her straight away. She was no longer the young, budding beauty he’d challenged to a mud fight at the Glastonbury Festival, way back in the late 90s, but then again she only used her age-defying night cream every other night and lots of women her age dyed their hair nowadays. Rachel took in the view. He hadn’t changed much. His face had a few more lines than she remembered and the skin now had a deep, golden tan which made his hazel eyes seem brighter. His hair was still the colour of liver chestnut but now had tiny flecks of grey mixed in. Somehow it suited him, she thought. His teeth were capped and snow white. She wondered if they were bridged, like her own. They had both grown older. “Well, I must say I’m staggered to see you here,” Rachel continued, trying to sound casual. “I thought you were in South Africa. Your mum said you’d settled in Johannesburg, working on wind turbines or something. Quite the workaholic with no time for visits home.” “Oh, you still see my mum, then? She never told me. Yes, I did - go to Johannesburg, I mean, but I sold up a year after… after the accident. I lost my wife and son, you see. Car crash. There didn’t seem much point in being there without them anymore,” Mike replied, a note of sadness in his voice. Rachel swallowed hard. “I was very sorry to hear about that. You must have been devastated.”

Short Story

“I was. I miss having my family even though Helen loved too many shoes and Tim always drove me to distraction with his drum kit.” He shrugged his shoulders. They seemed a heavy weight. “But life goes on, so they say. Isn’t that a stupid phrase? I’ve always thought so. As if time could simply wash the hurt away. Still, it’s almost 14 months ago and it’s still damned hard but I’m trying to move on now. Starting again. That’s why I came back. Back to familiar surroundings I suppose, although in the 12 years I’ve been away, there’ve been a lot of changes. I just thought there’d be something left of the old life to help me here. And there’s my old mum, too, of course. She’ll see us all out, despite her arthritis.” He smiled. Rachel smiled back but felt the pain return. He’d broken her heart when he’d left her so suddenly, all those years ago. What do they say? ‘You never get over your first love?’ She didn’t understand him then. Now, she understood completely. “Anyway, what about you? Married?” he asked. “Nope! Never found a guy who’d ask me. I lived in sin a bit though!” she laughed. “Can’t believe that. Any man in his right mind would ask……” His voice trailed off. He looked away, embarrassed. She cleared her throat.

“All right,” she said at last. “Your mum knows where I live. Call me,” she replied, taking hold of her trolley and pulling it free of his. He nodded and trundled his trolley away, down the chiller aisle. A small boy ran up to Rachel and dropped a large bag of chocolate caramels into the trolley. “Can I have these, Mum? Mum? Mum, are you OK? Your eyes are all wet. You’re not crying are you?” the boy asked. “Hmmm? What? Oh, no, Jamie. I’m fine. Everything’s going to be fine.” She looked down at her son and ruffled his liver chestnut hair. He looked up at her with bright, hazel eyes and smiled.

“I have a wonderful son, though,” she said, proudly. “Really bright, loves playing cricket, just like his dad. He was a good man. Still is, I think. It’s just that somewhere along the line, things didn’t work out for us. But Jamie’s a great kid. You’d like him.” “I’m sure I would. Look, if it’s not a bit too bold and you don’t have to agree to it, but why don’t we get together for a drink sometime? Just a friendly drink, you know, to have a catch up,” asked Mike. Rachel hesitated. He saw it. “I promise I won’t bite and I won’t stand you up! You could even bring your son along as chaperone, if you want,” he chuckled. She noticed how his eyes crinkled at the corners when smiled. She felt her heart start to crumble. Did she really want to re-open old wounds? “I don’t know, I…” Mike tilted his head. “Please?” Rachel sucked in a breath and felt the last shreds of common sense slip quietly away. After all, what harm could it do? 9

Trade Talk

Furniture Land branches out Furniture Land in Alhaurín el Grande is going from strength to strength. Having recently opened a second showroom selling quality second hand furniture in the popular La Trocha shopping centre in Coín the company also has an office at the entrance to the centre’s car park where you can purchase hand-engraved glass items by Debbie Debonair. The ideal placement of this office gives a permanent pitch to Furniture Land at the busy Sunday market in Coín. With this extra space, owner Eric can offer parking spaces to his clients so they can sell their cars to an ever-growing Sunday crowd. “We sell all kinds of furniture, from bedroom suites, beds, kitchens and lounge and dining furniture,” he says. “We also sell white goods such as fridges, freezers, washing machines, tumble dryers etc.

“We sell new and second-hand items and there are great bargains to be had, always with a warm welcome. We also offer a service to people who are looking for specific items, where they can leave their phone number with us and we let them know when we have got what they are looking for.” This is not the end of the extensive list of services Furniture Land and its staff can provide. Eric can always deliver any items you buy so there’s no worry about how you’ll get heavy or large purchases home. House removals and house clearances are also available. It really is like an Aladdin’s cave in the main Alhaurín el Grande shop and the new outlets are proving just as popular. For full details see the advert on page 19.

Future Focus

Just how safe is our information?

by David Shovelton-Fullick

Whether we shop online or our children play online via games sites such as Sony and Nintendo, we expect our private information to be stored in a safe manner, yet in recent months these and other companies have been the targets for online hackers. In the most recent attack on gaming giant Sega, the ‘cyber thieves’ stole the personal information of more than 1.29 million of its customers, however this pales into insignificance when you think of the 77 million people whose information was compromised when the Sony PlayStation network was hacked. How the information obtained will be used by the hackers is as yet alarmingly unclear, but in today’s world of online fraud, it may just be a matter of time before more details of what was taken emerge and how it will be used by the cyber-criminal network.

The Spanish police said members of Anonymous, known for wearing Guy Fawkes masks made popular by the graphic novel "V for Vendetta", had also hacked Government sites in Egypt, Algeria, Libya, Iran, Chile, Colombia and New Zealand. "They are structured in independent cells and make thousands of simultaneous attacks using infected 'zombie' computers worldwide. This is why NATO considers them a threat to the military alliance," the police said in a statement. "They are even capable of collapsing a country's administrative structure." A terrifying thought in itself. Another question arising from these cyber-attacks is: how responsible are the companies holding our data? Do they invest enough in protecting their customers from these types of attacks, and what should happen when they lose the information? More importantly for their customers, what action will they take in the future to prevent such thefts happening again, and can they fully safeguard the information on their client base?

Spanish police recently made their first arrests of three alleged ‘hacktivists’- the suspected members of the so-called ‘Anonymous Group’ were arrested on charges of cyber-attacks against targets including Sony Corp's PlayStation Network, Governments, businesses and banks. The arrests are the first in Spain against members of ‘Anonymous’ following similar legal proceedings in the US and Britain.

There have been calls for money to be allocated by companies to cover the cost of these cyber-attacks and for more advanced encryption for all personal data held about you by companies extending further than your banking information. So prior to the organisational changes being made, just what steps can we take to protect ourselves from this online danger? A few simple steps can help minimise your risks and help to protect your information: 1. Have a different password for each gaming site you visit 2. Never store passwords on your computer 3. Change your passwords at least once a month 4. Use a separate e-mail account for any online games you or your children play, ensuring the isolation of your gaming information and personal emails 5. Do not respond to suspicious emails Taking precautions limits the risks and helps us all to stay cyber safe.

Health & Beauty

Alzheimer’s disease do not get confused

by Dr S Wildman-Chard

All too often we hear people saying "Oh, I forgot that; must be getting Alzheimer's!" or how many times have you said yourself “It’s my age… I must be losing the plot!” Of course, sometimes this is said in jest to cover an embarrassment yet in some cases, what they can really mean is that they believe dementia is setting in. Dementia is a very common condition and almost all of us, especially over the age over 75, will exhibit some signs of this unfortunate and often misunderstood circumstance.

Often, familiar objects are confused and there may be difficulty with language and general expressions. Behavioural aggression, depression, delusions and imagined conflicts may be expressed. As the disease progresses, loss of bladder and bowel control, plus the inability to walk and swallow, may also be present. In summary — the milestones from babyhood to adult are reversed.

Your brain is similar to every other part of your body and will duly age over time. Certain factors can speed up this process such as the hardening of arteries, a previous brain injury, and numerous other medical conditions. Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia and unless specifically diagnosed by an expert, it should never be classified in tandem with other forms of dementia.

What is not often known about Alzheimer's is that genetics play the biggest part in the risk of developing the condition. In fact, hundreds of known specific genetic mutations account for more than 30 percent of all cases. Being a women places one at higher risk too. This is simply because in general, women live longer than men and life expectancy is enhancing as every decade passes. The risk of developing the disease doubles every five years once you reach 65. Clearly then, more women are likely to be recognised with this form of dementia than their male counterparts.

The hallmark identification of Alzheimer's is the way in which the brain deteriorates. Special substances called 'Amyloid plaques' and 'Neurofibrillary Tangles' invade specific areas of the brain, whilst essential chemical messengers decline in others. The general circulation is also impaired. The order in which the brain is mutated leads to very specific signs and symptoms for the patient.

There is a positive side for the ladies — a large number of studies have suggested that taking oestrogen supplements can reduce or delay the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Those taking HRT (hormone replacement therapy) may benefit from this protection and some medical specialists advocate the use of oestrogens to supplement other drugs given for this disease.

Health & Beauty

However, apart from the many drugs in use and on trial, a lot can be achieved through help from families and carers of sufferers, in addition to the patients themselves. This self-help and extended assistance should never be underestimated, especially in a time when we are all living longer and longer. Since Alzheimer's attacks very specific brain centres, other parts are left completely intact. These unaffected areas can be stimulated in a way to enhance the brain’s functionality. The hands, feet and lips have a very large area of coding space within two parts of the brain’s structure. Constant massage, stimulation and unexpected touching stimuli are very useful for strengthening brain connections in such areas.

Apart from such stimuli, the use of crosswords, quizzes, chess or any game that stimulates and challenges the brain are worth a try. The more the family and carers stretch the patient (without tiring them) the more of the person they once knew can stay there for longer. Alzheimer's is a form of dementia — yet it is not the same as dementia. The good news is that with Alzheimer's disease, there is a pattern of where in the brain the disease will affect, and where it will leave it completely intact. This permits scope to proceed with specific therapeutic interventions to extend quality of life function for as long as possible.

The 'Limbic system', which is part of our primitive sensory memory and safety system, is very responsive to familiar smells. How often have you walked past a cake shop and suddenly felt as if you were a youngster again and back in Granny's kitchen? Music, too, can send powerful reminders to the brain of younger days. So many methods can be applied to help 'bring the patient back to their normal self.' A great example is shown when people who have been farmers benefit from seeing, feeling and holding old instruments they once used to toil on the land.

So please 'do not get confused' — if you or your loved one has Alzheimer's disease or is showing signs of the condition, a lot can be done help them. However, you do have to make the effort. For more information please contact Suzanne in confidence, full details can be found in her advert on page 9. Next month: The 10 top warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Charity News

Not such a boob of an idea!

by Leslie Willets

Every other Friday, a group of folk meets to walk around the beautiful pueblo and surrounding countryside of Fuente de Piedra – famous for the lagoon and home to thousands of pink flamingos and various other wildlife. Having been taking part in the fortnightly stroll for almost two years now, I can assure you that there is definitely nothing too energetic about our pace; after all, we are pensioners and although we are generally a fit and healthy bunch, we do not take our walking too seriously — it is simply an enjoyable activity. One Friday, one of our natters soon turned to our dear friend Margaret, not a walker but well known to all of us. Margaret was sadly diagnosed earlier this year with breast cancer and of course, the topic of our chattering soon turned to what we could do to help.

We were, of course, deeply concerned on hearing the news but remain encouraged by the fact that Margaret is receiving wonderful support and treatment back in the UK. Having just undergone her fourth course of chemotherapy last month, I am so pleased to report that she is doing great but she does still have a long way to go. Our little group really wanted to do something to help. We were spurred on to raise some funds and promote awareness of breast cancer. We've all heard of the various fundraising events in the UK but we really didn't want to have yet another sponsored event. It was felt that since most of us have to pull our belts in to an even closer notch these days, maybe asking for donations would be a better way forward. Naturally, the main activity we could do was to combine the fundraising with our love of walking and the local lagoon seemed ideal. Setting our sights more on strolling than power-walking, a route was soon picked. We still wanted to be able to have a natter and an enjoyable time whilst asking people to donate whatever contribution they wished... The date was set, Saturday June 4, as this coincided with the Breakthrough Breast Cancer event in the UK. As the weather was on the change thankfully for the better – we would set off in the early evening and limit the route to a gentle 5km, taking in part of the trail around the lagoon. We hoped that this would encourage all ages and abilities. When our little group of walkers started arranging this charitable event, we never imagined that it would be very popular nor raise too much money – all we asked was that anyone who wished to join us wore a pink top if possible. Since we first came up with the idea, one of our keen Friday walkers has also been diagnosed with breast cancer; she will be having her treatment here in Spain. Also, less than two months ago, another lady from Fuente de Piedra has returned to the UK to stay after her daughter, who is only in her 40s, recovers from having had a mastectomy.

Charity News

Of course, there are other brave ladies and gents battling cancer of all strains, and we all need to keep raising awareness and funds whenever possible and in whatever way we can until the battle is won. Sadly, and shockingly, we all seem to know someone at the moment who is having treatment, or has lost a loved one to this most unprejudiced disease. As we embarked on our evening’s walk, we loaded ourselves up with pink balloons, ribbons and pink donation envelopes so participants — and anyone else — could donate whatever amount they wished, whether large or small. This would be split evenly between the UK’s Breast Cancer Trust and its Spanish equivalent. To our complete amazement, around 50 people turned up; pink t-shirts, shorts and shirts filled Fuente de Piedra’s plaza. They ranged from folk in their 70s to our youngest walker, a four year old boy (who was accompanied by his mum and brother, all from Gibraltar), to locals plus people who were visiting the village on holiday. We set off with ribbons and balloons flying high.

There were many people who were kind enough to donate to these important causes even if they could not join the walk itself. Vivienne and Mick of Bar Rebujito's kindly placed a collection box on the bar and this has been a great success. As an idea which grew from a quick natter into 800€, I really cannot thank everyone nor mention everyone who made the evening possible. What I can say is to keep watching this space for details of next year’s event – I promise it will be something quite different!

It was a lovely evening; the lagoon was serene and as the flamingos flew off to roost, probably wondering about all the pink trailing around the edge of their home, there was a sense of hope as we passed the sunflowers which had just started to open their happy faces. As we meandered back through the historic streets of the pueblo, the villagers came out of their doors to cheer and wave us on to our final stop at Bar Rebujito’s back in the plaza. As we all sat and enjoyed a refreshing drink or two, my pink basket seemed to fill up with pink envelopes before my eyes. The final total raised was an amazing 800€… oh, and 5c! I really would like to extend a massive heart-felt thank you to everyone who joined us and also a big thank you to all our supporters, of whom there were many. 17

Trade Talk

It’s all a load of QROPS to me! I had heard and possibly even read about Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes, otherwise known as QROPS, but I have to confess I didn’t really understand it nor even know how to correctly pronounce the acronym! However, having recently met David Kennedy of Kennedy Financial Services I can honestly say that I have been enlightened to the benefits the QROPS scheme can offer. If you’re anything like me, you will have signed up to your first private pension scheme at the ripe old age of 18–ish, on the advice of a personnel manager at your first employer’s. I signed on the dotted line without a second thought; after all, what did I have to worry about at such a young age? My pension was a million light years away from me then and if the UK government keeps changing the age I can finally retire at, my pension will remain that way too.

David explained to me in layman’s term that the British Government passed legislation in April 2006 stating that any British person living outside the UK could transfer their private pension benefits (not State pension) and receive them before they retire, in many cases tax free. I’m not sure if it was the tax free bit or the fact that I could have the money to control now which appealed the most but I started to like the sound of QROPS as the conversation went on.

Having worked my way up a somewhat strange career path, I have had a few employers throughout my time – often signing a new private pension scheme at each one. I left the UK many moons ago, and being well below pensionable age I didn’t give a second thought to these little pots of gold sitting somewhere in an account with my name on them.

Basically, it is possible to transfer the whole of your private pension fund(s) – however many you may have – and receive it as a lump sum even before you reach retirement age. According to David, 58, who has been living in Spain for 10 years and owns Kennedy Financial Services, there are huge benefits to be gained from going down the QROPS route.

As I approach the semi-mature age of 40, when you are supposed to take stock of life and start planning for the future, I’d heard that QROPS is an excellent option for expats here in Spain and decided to investigate what my future held a little further by calling David Kennedy of KFS.

“There are many reasons people around the world transfer their UK pensions to a QROPS,” he explained.

“Anyone over the age of 18 who has a private pension fund in the UK and is not drawing benefits from it can transfer the whole fund and receive it as a tax free lump sum within a couple of months.”

Trade Talk

That means if you had £100,000 in a pension, David can transfer that £100,000 to your Spanish bank account. There are literally thousands of QROPS available and endless variations of the solutions and structures. David is available to remove the hassle, time, labour and confusion in trying to find the best QROPS solution for your unique circumstances. I have met other financial advisers over the years and to be honest, often left their offices feeling more confused than when I’d entered. Explaining in simple terms, plain-speaking David will provide the very best regulated, independent and honest advice to empower you to make an informed decision. He helps you choose the best option for you and assist with the paperwork. “I got into this industry in 1986 and I have over 25 years experience,” Kennedy said. “I know what I’m doing and I tell it how it is; I have always been a very matter of fact person.” Whether you need a lump sum now to help you through a financial crisis or maybe you’d rather invest your money how you want, rather than watching your fund possibly not giving you the return you first thought it would, releasing your money now can be a fantastic way forward. The very first pension pot I signed up for all those years ago is not going to go far in my retirement, but if I look around at more suitable savings and investment products available now I can make this little pot grow into more of a cauldron. I have spoken to other people who have released their funds too, but for a different reason: their fund held a large amount of cash which once dished out over the months of their retirement. They would have to

live until they were at least 105 to get all the cash back! Therefore, they signed up to have the ALL their money now and invest part of it in another scheme. So, whatever your reasons are, QROPS has huge benefits and with the help of David’s experience, you can be sure that the best possible solution will be delivered. David will answer any questions you have, explain the steps to be taken and complete all the paperwork with you should you wish to go ahead. You can be sure that you will receive clear, simple and straightforward facts based on the official guidance by HMRC. With 25 years experience of financial planning behind them, you will be in safe hands with Kennedy Financial Services. To start the ball rolling towards your financial future and for the best advice on the Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme, simply complete the free assessment form on KFS’s website. The advice is free and you are under no obligation to proceed, if you would prefer to speak directly to David, call him on either 951 219 576 or 678 035 992. The initial consultation on QROPS is carried out in a step-by-step manner so that all the benefits are clearly explained to you. Visit www.kennedyfinancialservices.com to watch the video and complete the online free assessment form. See advert on page 30 for more details.

Lifestyle

You’re not going out like that!

by Jo Shovelton- Fullick

Houston: we have a problem! If we are to believe recent media reports it would appear that we are in the grip of an alarming global issue through which our children are being exposed from all angles to startling sexualisation. Conservative leader David Cameron, unveiling a range of party measures aimed at giving children back their childhood, recently condemned this growing trend of ‘inappropriate sexualisation.’ Our children are being robbed of their childhood innocence by marketing wizardry which is slowly but surely turning our kids into micro-adults far too early. As adults, we are able to make informed choices on our children’s behalf, but we are not always able to control everything they see or hear. We can choose not to purchase the latest pole dancing kit for kids, but aside from locking the TV in a cupboard, we are unable to stop the marketing brainwashing that we are all subjected to on a daily basis. Can we or should we wrap our kids in cotton wool in a feeble though well-meaning attempt to shelter them from the world? Will pester power or peer pressure win hands down over parental influence? Is this so called sexualisation of our children a new problem or something that has always existed? Has the proverbial horse already bolted and is this too little too late? Without reciting the complexities of the birds and bees I am sure we are all well aware of the natural barrage of inquisitiveness that follows the hormonal surge of puberty, together with the instinctive curiosity surrounding changing bodies and at some point, members of the opposite or same sex.

Surely most will remember stealthily sneaking a more revealing outfit out of the parental home in which to make a costume change before a date or disco; the smuggling of lipstick and eyeliner in the school bag to be applied in the reflection of a window, or the rolling of the school skirt at the waist to make it shorter? Although obviously as a responsible society we would prefer that our younger generation did not enter the confusing world of adulthood leering at the opposite sex with an overt lack of respect, or believe that their whole being should be judged merely upon face value, we cannot fight nature or the aforementioned ‘birds and the bees’ — the balance between misty-eyed childhood innocence and reality is a fine one indeed. Living in a world where children are reaching puberty as young as seven, is this talk of ‘early’ sexualisation merely media panic or an attempt to ‘place blame’ upon the media for the perceived downward spiral of society? It is no secret that the worlds of entertainment and celebrity encourage girls to believe their sexual attractiveness is paramount and with celebrity ‘role models’ — I use the term loosely — leaving little to the imagination, it is easy to see how detrimental this can be to the already fragile sense of self of our ’tweens’. A growing number of products seem to be designed to encourage children to enter the world of adult sexuality when they should still be children.

Lifestyle In 2010, Primark gained more negative press than one retailer would want in a year when it offered for sale a range of padded bikinis aimed at the seven to eight year old market. The collection caused a monumental outcry and its subsequent removal from sale — yet entering a Spanish clothing store just last week, I found padded bikinis aimed at an even younger market. Does the attitude to such clothing differ according to culture and country? Is the blanket removal of such products merely adopting a ‘big brother state’ attitude to parenting and taking away the right to parental choice? Parental choice is not so easy when it comes to the world of music. Parental advisory warnings on the covers of music CDs assist adults in determining whether the lyrics enclosed within the sleeve are appropriate for the ears of their little angels, however this guidance relates only to the use of profanities and not to sexual innuendo. There is no such warning when it comes to music videos or TV performances and when we find our children dancing around the living room ‘Rhianna style,’ belting out the lyrics to ‘Rude Boy,’ it can come as a bit of a shock to the parental system — if you are unfamiliar, check out You Tube! Now I would like to think of myself as being somewhere central between ‘down with the kids’ and ‘a downright prude’, but the recent TV appearance of the beautiful Nicole Scherzinger to promote her new single ‘Right There’ made even me blush. The mirroring of the suggestive dance routines witnessed by our children does not end at their replication in the home; a dance studio in the UK recently came under fire for its ‘Little Spinners’ pole dancing classes which organisers say is ‘a great way to help children to use their bodies, move, balance and be free in a fun environment’. Now I fully understand the strength and skill required to suspend oneself from a pole, and the fitness required to undertake such an act, but given the phallic symbolism of the pole around which the ‘dancing’ takes place, is it an activity we would actively promote as an after-school activity for our children over, say, tennis?

open to discussion about all manner of subjects with our children will hopefully encourage our kids to seek our advice and not rely purely upon the sometimes ill-informed guidance of their peer group. My daughter has a love of lipstick because she wants to look pretty, not because she is about to step up to the pole! I was interested to hear the opinions of other parents, so posed the question via the power of Facebook, and here are some of the responses I received. Nina Bradley, UK. ‘Think it's a very big problem and has been heading this way for quite a while. I have seen three year olds with t-shirts that say ‘this bitch bites’ on them. When did it become OK to call a three year old girl a bitch? Media and the willing acceptance of strip and pole dancing clubs just shows our children that these are acceptable career aspirations and that false boobs etc. are the norm. When did these things become alright? We are all responsible for how things have become because we didn't do anything to stop it. Young girls now judge their value on their looks and sexuality and don't even realise what it means.’ Lorraine Trigg, UK. ‘It’s a shame! This is a throwaway society, all values, common sense and love thrown away! Do I need say any more?’

Who is right? Is pole dancing a dirty activity no matter what the context? Is teaching tots how to slide up and down a pole emotionally abusive? Or are our deranged adult psyches projecting sex onto a perfectly acceptable activity? Is the sexualisation in the eyes of the beholder? Unfortunately I don’t have the answers – merely opinions, but I do believe that raising strong and confident children in today’s society is hard. As parents we make choices: some are good and some are bad but they are our choices to make. Being 23

Trade Talk

Alhaurin el Grande’s newest beauty spot Finally, there is a new beauty salon with a difference based in the heart of Alhaurín el Grande, bringing you all those well known treatments we all dream of being pampered with, along with many more new and exciting therapies. With the help of affordable prices, the dream can be a reality at Beckii Smith’s recently-opened Perfectas Salon. Perfectas Salón, (formerly Uñas Perfectas), opened its doors just two months ago under Beckii’s brand new management, and she has introduced a new qualified team of nail technicians, holistic therapist, massage therapist, beautician, Reiki practitioner and many more professionals, so every genre of beauty and care is truly under one roof. Offering clients a warm and welcoming environment, Perfectas Salón gives you the perfect setting in which to relax and enjoy your chosen treatments. The new salon does not just appeal to a particular age group or stereotypical type of person, in fact at Perfectas you will find therapy and pamper packages to suit men, women and even children over the age of five. Tempting treatments are available for all ages and lifestyles, from those in their teens to the perfect package for busy working mums or the more mature. Many of us think that salon prices are more for the rich and famous but this is not the case – all treatments are deliberately kept at an affordable price to suit all budgets. You can even custom build your own Perfectas Pamper Package with help and advice from the fully qualified team should you desire it.

“Our clients are very important to us, and our aim is to provide you with the best of the treatments on offer that are best suited your life style,” says Beckii. “We are also able to call upon our out-of-salon team of professionals who work with us, providing all that you need to know regarding your diet and nutrition and a lot more.” “At Perfectas, we like to use friendly natural skincare products which can help battle all different skincare dilemmas, helping to combat the daily stresses and strains of everyday life.” While you choose the treats for your body and soul, why not treat yourself to the other products on offer in the in-house Perfectas Boutique. It will shower you with the latest fashions from Ax Paris, Paul’s Boutique, Juicy Couture and T.Sabo, plus there’s an array of handmade jewellery and bags too. So visit Perfectas soon and have that perfect day out – or even just an hour of that relaxation we all deserve. Just some of Perfectas Salón new and old treatments available: Arabian Massage, Crystal Mud Body Spa, Hopi Ear Candle, Hot Oil Head Massage, Hot Rock Massage, Reiki, Healing Circles, Psychic Circles and so much more. For bookings and consultations call 656 934 930 or email perfectas@hotmail.co.uk SKYPE: perfectassalon, why not join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/perfectas.salon

Trade Talk

Sunkissed skin fake and factors

by Beckii Smith

We all seem to be living in a world dominated by the realm of beauty and how we all look. The main requirement for the best bod seems to be perfect sunkissed skin, and not just through summer: we like to maintain that golden glow throughout the year. So this article is devoted to the one and only tan. Au natural Exposing our body’s protector, our skin, to the rays of the big fireball in the sky can cause unseen damage. Of course you can buy all the usual protectors in the shops, but don’t you find the names so off-putting? Sun “block;” sun “screen” – what do they say to you? It blocks and screens out the sun? We don’t want that if we’re trying to catch a tan… right? Wrong! In fact, we do need them and it is proven we get a longer lasting natural tan if we use “sun screens.” The only thing is, you won’t be going to the beach or pool for the day and coming back with that brown tan straightaway. It does have to be worked at, and gets darker over a period of time. Patience is obviously the virtue here. We have all done it – cheated now and again – and as soon as we’re out in that sun, we whack on the tanning oil, hoping for a quicker tan, when really all we get is a nice red glow and sore bits. By then, the skin damage is done. This love affair with the sun is not a two-way street — exposure to the sun’s rays causes most of the wrinkles and age spots on our faces. Consider this: one woman at age 40 who has protected her skin from the sun actually has the skin of a 30-year-old! Exposure also increases the risk of developing skin cancer. So while sun damage to the skin may not be apparent when you're young, it will definitely show later in life.

When choosing your tan, always look at the colour guidelines. Follow the product’s directions and smell it before you buy it — nowadays most fake tans have a sickly smell to them and let’s be honest, that’s the last thing you want on a night out with the girls. Most importantly, remember the tan will not show straightaway, so don’t slip, slap and slop it on – less is more; you can always reapply and build up your colour over time. Tips on factors for your skin type: Very Fair: Burns quickly. Tanning is rare. Consider SPF 20 to 30. Fair: This skin type almost always burns easily. Some tanning can occur, although not much. Consider SPF 12 to 20. Light: This skin type burns in the moderate range. Tanning is normally gradual, yielding a light brown shade. Consider SPF 8 to 12. Medium: This skin type burns in the minimal range. Tanning happens much of the time, yielding a moderate brown shade. Consider SPF 4 to 8. Dark: This skin type rarely burns. Tanning occurs bigtime, yielding a dark brown shade. Consider SPF 2 to 4. Other: Other skin types include people with moles (or whose close blood-relatives have a history of moles), people with skin cancer in their family histories (including melanoma), and people with very fair skin and hair. As this is a high-risk category for health damage from too much UV exposure, consider using sunscreen products with the highest SPF available, combined with light to moderate sun exposure.

Bake with fake Thanks to the media, when we think about fake tan we tend to imagine a stereotype of a blonde yet orange-glowing girl or a certain antique dealer. But it is not all orange in the world of fake tan: not if you choose the right one and apply it correctly. The main downfall of using fake tan is the lengthy time it takes to apply the product — placing petroleum jelly on the nooks and crannies to avoid those tell tale streaks, the scrubbing of the body beforehand and applying it evenly over your body, and then letting it dry. Done correctly, though, it is still a fantastic safe way to get the all-over bronzed look. 25

Roaming Andalucía

Smurfing the town blue

by Jo Shovelton-Fullick

The previously stark white pueblo blanco of the tiny mountain village of Júzcar, located approximately 22km from Ronda in the heart of the Genal Valley in the province of Malaga, now truly reflects the glorious blue summer skies that hover above the petite Spanish settlement. Nestled upon a picturesque mountain side surrounded by cork oaks and chestnut trees, the quaint Andalucían village of approximately 250 residents has thrown aside the tradition of white in favour of “Smurf” blue. This is part of a global promotion for the Sony Pictures film “The Smurfs 3D” after the village was chosen to host the premiere of the movie which opens in Spain in August.

All the buildings located within what has been declared “the first Smurf village” - including the church and cemetery - have been painted a stunning turquoise blue, using around 9000 kilos of paint to replicate the habitat of our favourite small blue creatures. For those unfamiliar with the natural habitat of the Smurf, they are normally located in the traditional “fungi abode.” This is also said to have led to Júzcar being the location of choice due to the municipality having an abundance of more than 150 varieties of mushrooms.

The transformation of this location does not stop at the repainting of the historical facades. This stroke of creative marketing genius also includes the opening of a new village bar aptly named after the villain of the Smurfs — Gargamel – a guaranteed destination for the hundreds of visitors flocking to view this striking spectacle. The village has seen a Smurf wedding, a blue-haired hotel manager and the erection of a giant Smurf to welcome visitors to the location. Even the villagers have taken the fictional Smurf characters to heart with residents taking on the various Smurf personas — the eldest Júzcar resident, an 86 year young gentleman, being honored with the recognition of papa Smurf. Will this break from tradition live on longer than the movie premiere? Those wishing to visit “Smurf village” are advised to do so prior to September when it is reported that the village will be re-painted white, despite some residents expressing a desire for it to remain the alternative azul. Will this pocketsized location live on in history as long as the pocketsized characters that have provided it with its newfound fame? Maybe along with its new popularity and distinction will come a welcome break from the austerity of the current economic climate, and maybe fortune truly does favour the brave!

Alice’s Wonderland

Painting the Westie white

by Alice Marriott

Hi, it’s me again, Alice Summer is well and truly here and I am so glad. I have been staying at my friend’s house and going to the local pools. Then the ferias are in town – which I love – so it’s all good fun this month. It is too hot for the horses, though, so I don’t have any competitions in August – but I am going for a sleepover, BBQ and late night hack which I’m really looking forward to as I’ll get to see Callie. Mum says we’re like two old women when we get together and even worse if we phone each other! We painted the outside of our finca the other week and with the sunshine, it looks really white but the only problem is that when Tinker, our Westie, sits up against the wall for a bit of shade it makes her look really grey, maybe we should paint her!

All the kittens have gone now, and the mum cats have been ‘done’ so the house is a bit quieter and our toes are safe again too – I do miss having them around but hopefully they’ve all settled in their new homes by now. Well, I’m off to get ready for my evening horse ride, so I hope you all have a nice summer. Love Alice xx

Sport & Leisure

Love and leadership - talking to horses the natural way

by Jean Joss

As a child I was, like many little girls, pony mad. I'd spend hours careering round our back garden leaping over flowerbeds talking to my imaginary steed — who bore more than a passing resemblance to the Lone Ranger's white stallion Silver. We had a magical partnership; my horse friend and I could outrun the Grand National winner, jump any obstacle and win every rosette at the Horse of the Year Show. I just had to whisper in his ear and we could conquer the world! So I was continually disappointed that Taffy – the wicked little Welsh pony and my favourite mount at my weekly riding lesson – didn't behave like my other horsy idol, Champion the Wonder Horse. Taffy's favourite trick was to gallop downhill and stop dead at the bottom, hoping to deposit an unwary rider in the water trough. Not that our feisty little Border terrier behaved much like Champion's faithful companion Rebel either – he was too busy chasing the neighbour's cats to worry about saving his mistress! But then at the age of eight, I could perhaps be forgiven for confusing fantasy with reality, particularly as I lived in a city and the chance of owning my own pony and learning through experience wasn't an option. Many years later, I did get the opportunity to form a more meaningful connection by being responsible for a horse of my own because, of course, as anyone who is a true horseman (or woman) will tell you, sitting in the saddle enjoying the ride is a very small part of the total experience. It's the hours you put in on your own feet: grooming, feeding, mucking out etc that are equally important in forming the bond between horse and human. And it gave me a real thrill when that aristocratic chestnut head looked out

over the stable door with ears pricked and whinnied as I drove into the stable yard – not quite like winning that imaginary silver cup at Wembley perhaps, but actually achievable. But there was always a sense that maybe our relationship lacked that magic “something.” My horse always seemed pleased to see me (or was it the carrots I brought?) but we didn't always seem to be on the same wavelength. Was it possible to form a true partnership in the real world, or could this only be done in the realms of Gandalf and Shadowfax (another Silver look-alike)? It wasn't until I came to Spain that I was introduced to the concept of “natural horsemanship” – ironic in view of the fact that most of the beautiful Spanish horses you see at the ferias are handled in a far from “natural” fashion. You only have to look at the scars on their noses to realise that force is all too often the norm here. Of course I'd heard of Monty Roberts, whose exploits and celebrity status (particularly after meeting the Queen) spawned a myriad of followers, but had never had the opportunity to view such techniques used at first hand. Then last year I met up again with an old friend – Freddy Verleyen and his grey Andalusian Principe – and discovered another kind of partnership. I'd met Freddy some ten years previously and spent several happy hours on horseback with him riding up and down the campo round Benalmadena Pueblo (the campo that doesn't exist today since it is covered in a concrete jungle). Freddy comes originally from Belgium, though he has lived in Andalucía since 1979 and has spent the last 30 years working with horses.

Sport & Leisure

Since our first meeting, he has been studying natural horsemanship and recently became a licensed Parelli Professional (Pat and Linda Parelli are known worldwide for their natural horsemanship programmes) after his latest trip to America. His “partner” Principe is at least 29 and has been with him for more than ten years. There is nothing magical or mystical in their relationship; it is based on mutual trust and understanding, perfected over the years to a point where they can “second guess” each other. Watching them together at one of Freddy's demonstrations (he is currently based at Finca Hiedra Ecuestre, a natural horsemanship centre near the beautiful Rio Grande just outside Coin) gives you some idea of just how close a partnership horses and humans can share.

to understand what makes your horse tick by assessing his “horsenality” and working with it. The horse then becomes a willing partner since he is doing understandable things with his trainer, rather than being pressurised into performing by having things done to him.

Principe – completely unrestrained – and Freddy play together, virtually dancing (no, not like the Spanish horses, “dancing” with the flamenco dancers, strapped down with bits and being prodded by spurs, but mirroring each other’s movements in total freedom). Their body language is so much in harmony there is no need for bits, bridles, or ropes. Freddy sends Principe over jumps, on to the top of tyres and into the dreaded horse trailer (feared by so many) forwards and backwards, with just a wave of his hand. And then Freddy gets on his back and the pair perform all manner of movements round the ring and over the jumps – even without a head collar, just with what is known in Parelli speak as a “carrot stick” (i.e. not something to cause pain, but something associated with pleasure). Even the Lone Ranger couldn't do that, though maybe his trusty sidekick Tonto would have had more success since Native Americans used to ride in a similar fashion.

Of course, many horse people would say that there is nothing new about natural horsemanship and far be it from a pensioner – and an amateur – like me to argue. But when I watch someone like Freddy, it reminds me more than a little of that back garden fantasy when I was eight years old …..

The bottom line, of course, is that they understand and trust each other completely because Freddy is speaking “horse”. It's not a mystical union, nor is the horse thinking like a human; horses naturally can only think like horses, hence the term “natural horsemanship”. (I don't suppose Principe would gallop to Freddy's rescue and crush his enemies under his hooves like Champion regularly did on the TV screen). What is happening here is something far more rewarding and achievable. It just takes time and perseverance – it doesn't happen overnight.

Freddy is a great teacher and has infinite patience. He uses the techniques he has perfected with Principe to teach many other horses (and humans) how to achieve a more relaxed and meaningful connection. To learn more about Freddy and the Parelli method of natural horsemanship, go to his website (see below), look at the pictures and watch the videos or – better still – come and see him in action. You might just be inspired! Contact Freddy Verleyen at the Natural Horsemanship Centre in Coín or visit www. thenaturalhorsemanshipdream.com or www. fincahiedra.com Join them on Facebook on the page for Finca Hiedra Centro Ecuestre.

Trust and mutual respect have to be built up slowly, using love and leadership, which is why most exponents of natural horsemanship start on the ground before progressing to work under saddle. And not all horses are the same; you need 29

Charity News

Fundacion Cudeca past and present

by Katie O’Neill

Nineteen years ago, Joan Hunt had the idea of fundraising to establish a hospice on the Costa del Sol. Her husband had died in the Palliative Care Unit at the Red Cross Hospital in Málaga, although his wish had been to die at home. Joan formed a close relationship with the doctors on the unit as they had been to England for training in hospice care before opening the unit. These doctors knew what her vision was for a hospice and in September 1992, joined together with a group of other like-minded people to launch the idea. After the launch of the hospice appeal, volunteers of all different nationalities worked from Joan’s house but very soon were able to buy a property from which the fundraising and home care teams operated. The Cudeca Association was quickly registered; it was later converted into a foundation with the added security of a board of trustees under the tutelage of the regional government. In 1996, the Town Hall in Benalmádena offered the association land on which to build a hospice. The building slowly became a reality and in 2005, the Spanish royal princess, Doña Cristina, officially inaugurated the Cudeca Centre. Cudeca Foundation now has a purpose-built centre in Benalmádena with a 15 bed inpatient unit and a day centre along with medical, administrative and fund raising departments. It is a self-funding charity, recognised nationally as a centre of excellence, with international collaboration. Cudeca’s aims are to provide care and specialised treatment to patients who are suffering from the advanced stages of noncurable cancer, and to give support to their families. Cudeca also offers an information and counselling service from the moment of diagnosis, to anyone who may need it: over the last 19 years, more than 5800 patients have been helped. Last year, Cudeca Foundation cared for 700 people with advanced cancer in the province of Málaga, with a daily case load of 150-170 patients. The majority of the patients are cared for at home by four doctor and nurse teams covering different areas of the province. All the care is provided completely free of charge, so it is a constant struggle to raise the funds necessary to keep the hospice and its programmes functioning. The funding to achieve the annual budget of 2.7 million euros comes from the charity shops, donations, legacies, sponsorship and events organised by the Cudeca fundraising department 30

and the general public, who arrange an incredible number of events in aid of the charity. At present, there are more than 600 volunteers actively helping Cudeca. Their activities extend to helping in the charity shops, with fund raising events, and as care or transport volunteers in the day centre. One of the first fundraising ventures was the opening of a charity shop. It went well and the public wanted more; over the years, Cudeca opened shops all around the province of Málaga. It currently has 12 shops, bringing in a solid third of the annual budget. The shop in Alhaurín el Grande opened in 2002, as an initiative by volunteers who had worked at the Cudeca shop in Coín. Located for many years across from a school, the shop moved in October of last year to Carretera de Cártama, 21-23 (near Mercadona). The new location is large and light, with beautiful display windows. The shop currently opens from Monday – Saturday, 10:00 – 13:30, and Thursday evenings from 18:00 – 20:00 as well, but more volunteers are needed to open more hours and also cover the usual schedule now in summer, when so many of the regular volunteers leave on holidays. Cudeca’s charity shops perform several important functions. All those things that somehow we manage to accumulate at home, in good condition but not in use, can be donated to the shop. Selling these items in Cudeca shops gives them a second life, creating an ecological solution that helps support a good cause. When you stop by to give your donations, it’s worth your time to take a look at what is on display. During these times of economic crisis, there are true bargains to be had at Cudeca charity shops, with a little bit of everything, new and semi-new, at fantastic prices. Some examples: a colourful feria dress for only 25€, a leather jacket for only 8€, skirts at 2€, shirts (including designer!) for 2€… and a great selection of things for children as well. The people who work in the charity shops are Cudeca volunteers, offering their help on average once or twice a week, and it is thanks to them that the shops can stay open. They also organise events

Charity News

such as bazaars, Christmas fayres, fashion shows etc, to create more awareness and raise more muchneeded funding for the hospice. Being a volunteer is beneficial to the volunteer as well: it provides a means to get out and socialise, not to mention the great satisfaction it brings knowing that one is filling a necessary function to help with the wonderful work done by Cudeca. If you would like to help, you can become a benefactor – as little as 10€ a month makes a big difference to Cudeca - or you can sign up as a shop volunteer, organise a fundraising event for Cudeca, or manage collecting tins..… and we are also grateful for donations of clean, good-condition clothing, handbags, accessories, shoes and bric-abrac. For furniture there is even an outlet in the Torre del Mar shop. As well as Alhaurín el Grande, shops are located in Álora, Coín, Estepona, Marbella, Fuengirola, Arroyo de la Miel (2), Torremolinos, Málaga (El Palo), Torre del Mar, and Nerja. It’s comforting to know that 100 percent of funds raised are destined forCudeca, and you can come by to see what your donation is doing to help, since

Cudeca is local. You know your donation will be put to good use because Cudeca is a registered charity abiding by legal, fiscal and accounting controls established by the law. The annual financial report is checked by an external auditing service; these documents are available at the Cudeca Hospice Centre for anyone wishing to read them. For more information about Fundación Cudeca, care given, the charity shops, becoming a volunteer, events etc, please consult the webpage www. cudeca.org or telephone 952-564910. If you would like to help in the Cudeca shop in Alhaurín el Grande, please stop by!

Events

Lift your spirit this September Preparations are well underway for the first Gaia Spirit Gathering which will be held on September 2 – 4 in the beautiful countryside near Vejer de la Frontera in Cádiz. Initiated by the team behind the Asociación Holística Anayansi (an Inca word meaning ‘the key to happiness’), the festival will bring together all the elements needed for creating a sustainable culture: personal growth, holistic health, social and environmental activism, art, culture and … fun! The event programme will include many different activities, from talks and workshops to music and performances plus film screenings – all in very different spaces, with many of them running simultaneously. To get an idea of the full programme as it develops, visit the web – but here is just a taster of what will be on offer... Children of all ages (including adults with a young spirit) can visit the Biblioteca and Infantilandia where they can participate and enjoy workshops such as

Group Meetings

‘Land Art: Making a Vegetable Mandala’, ‘Clowning for Children’ and ‘Make your own Magic Wand’ or yoga and reiki for children. Don’t forget to visit the Mercadillo to see what local artisans have to offer. Here you will also find the Holistic Health Area — where therapists from more than 20 disciplines will be offering their therapies, many of them in exchange for donations. There’s the permaculture/transition area featuring renewable energy and with the food stalls, bar and restaurant, you will well catered for in all aspects. To find out more about the Gaia Spirit Festival or to purchase your tickets visit the website www.festivalgaiaspirit.com or email at info@ festivalgaiaspirit.com.

Royal British Legion

The Gardening Club’s Auction of Promises Coin: 17 August – 11 am social meeting at Bar is on September 9, Alhaurin el Grande email International, mystery activity, raffle and quiz. 19 hallamspain@gmail.com for more details August – to conclude the Chairman’s effort for the 90th Anniversary Appeal - Masked Ball (masks The Informal English Speaking Group of Loja meets optional) at Santa Fe, 7.30 for 8 pm. 30€ per at the Hotel Almazara, Rio Frio on the first Tuesday person to include meal and music. Tickets call Jo of each month between 12 and 2 pm. englishinloja@ 663157776. 29 August - whist group.11 am at the gmail.com www.englishinloja.com International Bar, details from Jim on 951240853. Amigas de Casa, informal group for English speaking women meet on the 2nd Thursday of every month from 11am – 1pm at Talillas bar/restaurant, Villanueva del Trabuco. For more info contact Jean Preston 952 751424 or Vicky Clark 951 904719.

Loja: Many Social activities walking and cycling groups, quiz, bingo, raffle and book sales. Everyone welcome. Call 958 327 276

Lake Vinuela Social Club meet every Thursday from 12 until approx 2.30 at Bar Atila in Puente don Manuel to enjoy social activities and meet new like minded friends. With regular quizzes, bingo, surprise events and presentations, also a monthly lunch at various local restaurants. For details of upcoming social events contact 636 6203135.

Trapiche: Meetings every Wednesday, El Trapiche restaurant from noon. Branch Gordon Reith 951239366 628785686, Social & bookings Sue Reith 951239366 618585061, Membership Gloria Hollocks 618456056, Welfare from 8am – 10pm 680764130. www.trapicherbl.org.uk

Mollina: We now meet at the Saydo Hotel, from 11am on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month. We Colmenar District Social Club meet every Wednesday have many interesting events planed this coming in the Hotel Arco del Sol at 12.30. All are welcome - year. Contacts: Secretary 952034038, Welfare come & enjoy quizzes, bingo, organised trips and 951060965, Membership 654472922, Social guest speakers. Contact Marjorie 951 163 071. 6530139932.

Trade Talk

A word of warning

by Bev Gilmore

Even a mechanic can get caught out by a Spanish garage, as we experienced first hand in April whilst on holiday at Estepona. On day one of our holiday, we had the misfortune of experiencing problems with our car. Typical, I thought: being away from the house and work, trying to relax and the car has a “wobbly.” My husband, being a mechanic, was quick to diagnose the problem – a leaking injector seal on the engine – but being without the relevant tools and somewhere to do the job, we had no option but to take it to the local garage to ask them to replace it. With excellent Spanish language within the family, communicating the problem was simple, and we were even able to show the very friendly mechanic the piece that required changing. He photocopied the log book and told us to come back to the garage (some three miles from where we were staying) at 0900 the following morning for the work to be carried out. We were at the garage just before 0900, left the car and advised to return at around 12.00. At 12.00 we were told the work to the injector had been done but the undertray of the car needed fitting back on and they would therefore need an extra 30 minutes. At 12.40 we returned to collect the car, paid the 120€ bill and drove off to enjoy the rest of our holiday. The car was parked up at the villa for that afternoon and wasn’t used again until the following day when we headed off to Gibraltar. After 60 km of driving, we were astonished to find the same symptoms occurring again and when my husband looked, the same seal was leaking as before.

We gently drove the car back to the garage and explained our dilemma, to be told by the garage foreman (in Spanglish) that his mechanic had taken the seal off, washed it, greased it and placed it back in the engine. This, I explained, was neither what was needed nor asked for. (A replacement seal was required.) After a heated discussion, and a lot of trying to pull the wool over my eyes by saying it was a difficult car – a Renault Espace? – specialist tools were needed etc, he finally agreed that he would refund me half the money paid (60€). I said that this was not acceptable and asked for the complaints book. Several discussions later, we came to the agreement that I would pay just 20€ for the mechanic’s time to have looked at the car in the first instance. I was still left with the same fault on my car though. Being a bank holiday weekend and unable to get the correct parts, we ‘nursed’ the car home, where the following day my husband purchased a new seal from Renault for 3€ and replaced in 30 minutes. Thankfully no damage had been done to the engine. Be warned: leaking seals are commonplace here in Spain. Unlike in England, the fuel quality is poor and it contains no additives for cleaning. It is advisable to keep your tank at least a quarter full, use ultimate diesel at least every fourth tank and change your filters regularly. For all your motoring concerns see Scott’s advert on page 18.

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