Olive Press Gibraltar Newspaper - Issue 2 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

Property

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October 1st - October 14th 2015

Buying or selling property

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The secret Spanish homes of a dozen leading celeb-

PAGE 13

SOLD OUT

SPANISH housebuilder Taylor Wimpey Espana has doubled its annual sales this year. The subsidiary of the British company has already sold out five developments, with British sales up 37%. Meanwhile, German buyers have leapt by an astonishing 160%, fuelled mainly by sales in Mallorca. Marc Pritchard, sales and marketing director, said: “It’s been a really good summer this year. “It’s been at least five years since I’ve experienced such an intense level of enthusiasm for Spanish property.” New Costa del Sol developments popular with British golfers this year include La Floresta Sur near Marbella and Miraval at Mijas.

The secret Spanish homes of a dozen leading celebri-

PAGE 16 CAPTION: Caption here

Controversial Almoraima sale comes off the market after campaign by Olive Press and visit from Hollywood actress Salma Hayek

Malaga company floats

A LUXURY PROPERTY company has become the first in Malaga to float on the stock exchange. Obsido, a Spanish-Norwegian company, debuted on the Mercado Alternativo Bursátil (MAB) this month at a price of €19.40 per share. The company currently manages two properties in Estepona and Marbella.

Don’t miss our special 12-page property pull-out, supported by a raft of Gibraltar and the coast’s leading property companies WELL WE MADE IT TO ISSUE 2... AND ON TIME AS EVER!

The secret Spanish homes of a dozen leading celebri-

PAGE 6

FULL STORY PAGE 21

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Buying or selling property in Spain?

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Why is paint selling out in Gibraltar? And where has Peter Hain bought in Spain? From Page 11

Final cuppa with Sir Jim

Former Governor reveals what he’ll miss most Page 4

Get Pablo to Gib

Leading banker calls on Podemos leader to visit Page 4

Cooking for the Queen

Expat chef shares the recipe he treated HM to Page 31

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Rock welcomes refugee family while one Gibraltarian raises £157,000 for Calais ‘jungle’ camp

WIN: But no majority

EXCLUSIVE By Tom Powell GIBRALTAR is launching its own humanitarian effort to help the current migrant crisis. The government has confirmed to the Olive Press that at least one refugee family is to be welcomed to the Rock. Discussions are currently underway with authorities in London over who to choose, and what Gibraltar would need to provide. “We want to make sure we get the right family who will settle comfortably into our community,” confirmed government spokesman. “It means they will probably have to be English-speakers,” he added. Meanwhile, another Gibraltarian has broken records raising money for impoverished migrants camped in Calais. Dan Teuma, 29, has amassed a staggering £157,000 to help struggling families hoping to enter the UK.

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ROCK RELIEF: Gibraltarian Dan Teuma helping refugees in Calais camp His big-hearted campaign began after an eye-opening visit to the migrant camp with girlfriend Jaz O’Hara, 25, in August. Originally planning to make a documentary on the camp known as ‘the jungle’ - he was so moved by the plight of the group of mostly Africans and Syrians that he decided to launch an appeal instead. Money that had been raised for the film through website JustGiving was then channelled into a new organisa-

tion CalAid. “We couldn’t believe the level of support we were getting,” Dan, a proud llanito, told the Olive Press. “I remember JustGiving calling us to say we had raised so much money, a record in fact, that we needed to take serious action.” CalAid is helping provide refugees with tents, clothes, food and water. “I think it’s important for Gibraltar to see that it can make

a difference away from the Rock,” added Dan, who still visits three times a year. “I want Gibraltar to become globally-recognised as a helping-hand when these kind of crises occur. “One day, when I’m done travelling, I plan to move back home and help set up a welfare organisation,” he added. From the Rock to the Jungle. Page 7.

PRO-independence parties in Catalunya are now baying for a referendum having won a majority of seats in the regional elections. Catalan president Artur Mas’s Junts pel Si coalition secured 62 of the 135 seats, with the anti-capitalist CUP winning ten seats. However, the result is not as definitive as Mas proclaimed in his ‘Catalans have voted for independence’ victory speech. Firstly, the two parties’ 47.2% share of the vote is short of an overall majority. But more importantly, the CUP party insists it does not want Mas to lead a pro-independence government, citing a police investigation into alleged kickbacks taken by Mas’ party. Elsewhere, the anti-independence Ciutadans came second with 25 seats as Mariano Rajoy’s PP picked up just 11, nine less than in 2012. Sunday’s record election turnout was over 77% with four million Catalans voting.

the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

NEWS IN BRIEF

Grand opening THE University of Gibraltar has officially opened its doors, with over 2,400 visitors descending on the Europa Point campus during the inaugural weekend.

Quick word CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo grabbed British Prime Minister David Cameron at the recent Blenheim Literary Festival to remind him of the issues concerning Gibraltar’s waters.

Brighton Rock GSLP minister Joe Bossano addressed the Brighton Labour Party conference where he spoke of the fraternity between the two political parties.

Able sub DEPUTY Governor Alison MacMillan has been sworn in as interim Governor until the next appointment is made.

NEWS

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We have lift-off... but only after a massive scare

D-Day...

NOT SOLD OUT: When The Sun, Mail and Telegraph are sold there’s one paper still available in Casemates

(Distribution Day with a twist) Entire Olive Press Gibraltar team called to arms after first edition distributor ‘disappears’

IT was a gargantuan effort but, short of carrier pigeons, the Olive Press had no choice other than to involve its entire team in distributing the first issue of its brand new paper in Gibraltar. After new distributor, John Munn, failed to arrive to pick up the 10,000 copies as agreed, it left the paper’s staff with little option but to do it themselves. And in an effort not dissimilar to D-Day (or Distribution Day, as we’re now calling it) the whole team rallied around to ensure the first edition reached as many Gibraltarian residents and business people as possible. Delivering the 10,000 papers in a record five hours, a team of 12 journalists, admin staff and salespeople set off for The Rock with the debut issue in their cars. Wearing bespoke red and green Olive Press Gibraltar tCHIPPING IN: Even the shirts, they got papers into all publisher Jon Clarke

DREAM TEAM: On Main Street

the regular two dozen drops, as well as some 50 new locations. Then, walking up Main Street and around Casemates Square, they handed out over 1,000 papers to business people, tourists and shoppers. Publisher Jon Clarke was delighted with his ‘hard-working’ team who did not question for a second the importance of their role. “It was incredible how well everybody pulled together and made sure that the day went with such great success,” he said. “We got papers into government HQ, all the gaming companies and other international businesses, including the new international bank, not to mention practically every business on Main Street and in Irish Town.”

Munn-hunt DO you know this Munn? The Olive Press would like to speak to anyone who knows of ‘distributor’ Mr Munn’s whereabouts or background. Please contact newsdesk@theolivepress.es or call 0034 951 273 575

CRIME NEWS

Gangland war erupts A GANGLAND war is ‘in danger of exploding’ on the Costa del Sol. It comes after the killing of key gangland figure Gary Hutch at his Mijas home sparked panic among Spanish and Irish authorities. Irish police claim ‘heavies’ from the notorious Estepona-

based Kinahan clan are Dublin-bound to settle the score for Hutch’s assassination. They are reportedly after ‘Fat Freddie’ Thompson who has waged war with the Costa del Sol gang for decades. First lieutenant to Irish drug lord Christy Kinahan, Hutch, 34, was shot in the back three

Shameless A CALLOUS drug addict who stole jewellery from his girlfriend’s terminally ill grandmother has been jailed for 16 months in Gibraltar. Nigel Segui, 23, pleaded guilty to stealing gold and diamond jewellery worth £9,395 to fund his cocaine habit. He, his wife and young child had moved into the dying woman’s flat to help care for her after she suffered brain tumours last year. However, as her condition worsened, Segui began to steal jewellery to buy drugs. Segui, who is now attending Narcotics Anonymous, was handed the prison term after being told he had not shown enough remorse, while awaiting sentence.

times at his swimming pool in Miraflores. His attacker was seen fleeing in a balaclava and his getaway car was found burnt out later in Cabopino. A previous attempt to bump off Hutch last year resulted in the accidental shooting of British boxer Jamie Moore, outside Christy Kinahan’s son Daniel’s Estepona home. The killing has also been linked to the murder of Gerard ‘the Hatchet’ Kavanagh 12 months ago.

Pill popping POLICE have arrested a Melilla drug mule for ingesting 102 hash capsules before boarding a ferry to Almeria The 32-year-old man’s cargo was discovered by x-ray after he was seen acting suspiciously and was taken to hospital to empty his bowels.

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NEWS

the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

Straight Outta Casemates!

IT’S not quite the streets of Compton, and it’s certainly no 8 Mile Road, Detroit. But for New York rapper Beniton the Menace, the Rock of Gibraltar was super phat and right on the money! The artist has recorded the promo video to ‘This world’ at the top of the rock, with several Barbary macaques as backing dancers. Beniton is already a self-declared lover of Gibraltar, having performed on stage with reggae star Maxi Priest at the National Day concert this year, as well as the 2014 event. “I was there a year ago and the love was tremendous,” he said. A new movie, Straight Outta Compton, about the life of legendary US rap band N.W.A, has just been released.

Falling Starr Comic Freddie’s attempt to escape UK justice in Spain has been anything but easy, he tells the Olive Press HE was, no doubt, hoping for a return to the happy holidays he spent on the Costa del Sol in the 1980s and 90s. But fallen comic Freddie Starr’s return to Spain has been marked with controversy, after being accused of trying to escape UK justice. Indeed, as he admitted to the Olive Press, this week, his purchase of a home in Mijas has, in fact, done little to cheer him up. After cashing up in England in a bid to escape a libel bill amounting to over a million pounds, he admitted he was now ‘shaking hands with the devil’. Adding he was almost suicidal, Starr said: “I’m very down. I’ve been up there and I’ve

MILLER TIME: Sizzling Sienna

Sienna stuns San Sebastian

EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan shook hands with God and I’ve come down here and I’ve shook hands with the devil.” Speaking outside his La Cala Hills bolthole, he insisted it had not been his intention to flee justice over the failed libel action he took against a woman who accused him of sexual assault. Cutting a shambolic figure and talking slowly and painfully, he said: “I have had a quadruple bypass. It wasn’t a matter of planning anything. I always come to Spain anyway. I love it here. “I didn’t run away because of the court case. If you haven’t

DOWN AND OUT: Starr is trying to repair his tattered life, he has claimed got socks, you can’t pull them up. I’ve got no money plain and simple.” Happily showing his horrific chest scars from the bypass operation, he explained how he was now trying to put together the pieces of his shat-

tered life. Describing Karin Ward as ‘full of lies’ for claiming she was groped by him, he now hoped that Spain would offer him some sanctuary.

The Only Way Is Marbs… or La Cala de Mijas!

A touch of TOWIE glamour wowed the opening night of Elliott Wright’s stylish new Costa del Sol champagne bar. The reality TV star boogied the night away with new girlfriend Sadie Stuart, 23, and a host of The Only Way is Essex regulars. Jessica Wright, Ferne McCann and Sadie flaunted their figures as they hit the dancefloor at Olivia’s in La Cala. And as the drinks flowed, businessman Wright revealed how happy he was to be with Sadie and to have the cast of the popular TV show at his new restaurant. “It’s was a fantastic night and it was great to see all the TOWIE cast,” he told the Olive Press. “They’re like my family and I love the programme.” He continued: “And it’s great being with Sadie...we’re very happy.” Despite insisting he had left the show, he is once again set to feature in the new TOWIE series, which kicks off with another ‘Marbs Special’ in October. And on top of that, he has even roped his new squeeze, a singer from London, into taking a turn, although she will not be-

come a regular. She told the Olive Press: “It’s been great. I’ve only got a few short cameos where he introduces me as as his new girlfriend. “However, I won’t be going back on the show when it returns to Essex... I’m going to stay out here in Marbella. Who knows what the future holds?” Elliott’s cousin, TOWIE star Jessica, who celebrated her 30th birthday this month, was also delighted to be at Olivia’s. She said: “I’m happy to see Elliot’s new restaurant. It’s stunning. We’ve been here most nights. I am really proud of him.” Meanwhile, fellow reality TV star Ferne, 24, had her dancing shoes well and truly back on after a recent foot injury, which left her on crutches. She said: “My foot is still quite swollen, but it’s so much better. It was a netball injury and I had torn two ligaments in my left ankly but I’m all good now and boogying away.” The entire TOWIE crew have been filming in Marbella for a week with some of them set to stay for another week.

A long-time visitor, who once owned a holiday home in Benalmadena, he continued: “The people are nice down here, I enjoy the lifestyle and weather.” An emotional Starr also recalled his last appearance on stage and the moment he realised the curtain on his career had finally fallen. “I was trying to get back to work in my wheelchair. I had the oxygen bottles on the back of my wheelchair and I was fighting for my breath.

SIENNA Miller wowed fans at the 63rd San Sebastian film festival in skin-tight gingham dress and heels. Arriving straight from London Fashion Week, the actress and model was promoting her new film, High Rise. The week-long event premiered 45 films and saw British actress Emily Watson receive the Donostia Award in honour of her work.

Applause

DANCE-OFF: TOWIE girls and (top) Elliott and Sadie

“They said ‘Freddie Starr’ and I knew as soon as I walked on that I was in trouble. “I said, ‘Sorry ladies and gentlemen, you have paid good money but I just can’t perform’. “They understood, gave me a round of applause and I said, ‘This is the last time you will ever see me on stage.’” He concluded: “I used to be the biggest paid person in Britain for 15 years but all of a sudden it has stopped.” Starr, who was driving a silver Mercedes, moved into his gated property around two months ago. Locals said he was often seen in bars around the complex and seen eating in various restaurants in La Cala.

SUPPORTIVE: Angela

Rippon on the Rock SHE is most famous for her legs, but now TV newsreader Angela Rippon has lent her fame to support a new Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society conference. The event, held at The Convent Ballroom, in Gibraltar, focused on understanding the condition and making the enclave a ‘dementia-friendly’ community. Rippon is a long-time supporter of the society, becoming an ambassador in 2009 after the death of her mother, who had dementia.

unit 36 harbours Deck, new harbours, Gibraltar NEWS

the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

NEWS IN BRIEF Hot off the press CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo was interviewed in influential Spanish newspaper El Mundo, discussing the PSOE’s promise to return to the Tripartite Process of dialogue if it regains power.

Stop-over TWO UK border force vessels, HMC Protector and HMC Seeker, arrived in Gibraltar’s Naval Base on the way home from a search and rescue mission off Libya, linked to the migrant crisis.

Line-up’s out THE GSD released its election line-up, promising a ‘prudent, responsible’ manifesto.

Free cops THE Freedom of the City has been bestowed upon the Royal Gibraltar Police in a ceremony in Casemates Square.

St Michael’s Cava THE inside of the Rock of Gibraltar is set to be transformed into an innovative cellar for investment wine.

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I’ll miss my Med tel: 200 72210 Fax:runs! 200 78874 email: Gibsn@dhl.com Steps HE may have cut short his tenure as Governor of Gibraltar by a year, but Sir James Dutton is adamant he has nothing but affection for the Rock. The former military general told the Gibraltar Olive Press he will dearly miss the Gibraltarians, his ‘gorgeous’ home at the Convent, not to mention the Mediterranean Steps, where he has been running twice a week. But for a man who has travelled the world, fought in the Falklands War and most recently lived in Gabon, did he find the three square miles that make-up Gibraltar a little claustrophobic? “Not at all,” declares ‘Sir Jim’, as he is known. “My wife Liz and I haven’t once felt restricted here, and with the huge garden we had at the

Former governor invites Tom Powell into his illustrious home for one last cuppa’... before heading for Blighty this week

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BREATHTAKING: Med steps

Convent it doesn’t feel like we are in the middle of the town. “We also travelled a lot to Spain, to Morocco and also

Chemo’s coming home A NEW chemotherapy centre launching in Gibraltar means patients will no longer have to travel to Spain or the UK to receive treatment. A suite with up to four treatment rooms will be constructed at St Bernard’s Hospital and available for use next year. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said: “This development will ring in a really meaningful step forward for those who need chemotherapy.”

went sailing, which is something I very much enjoy… and the views from the Mediterranean Steps on my regular runs were just stunning.” His publicly-stated reason for leaving his post is a desire to be at the sharp end of business again, and not just be a ceremonial figure. But it’s what made him come here in the first place that really raises a smile. “I met Joe Bossano, the former Chief Minister, at a week-long memorial event in the Falkland Islands,” ex-

GIB BID: Iglesias

HEADING HOME: Sir Jim

plains Sir Jim. “We became good friends, and he told me lots about Gibraltar, so when the opportunity came up I couldn’t resist.” It’s clear that at 61, Sir Jim still feels like he has a lot to offer, whether he returns to former multinational firm Bechtel or seeks new shores. But one way or the other, he will remain closely tied to Gibraltar, and echoed calls from British politicians on National Day to beef up the Royal Navy’s presence here. “At the moment you have two very old converted Northern Irish patrol boats, which does not send a strong message to Spain,” he explained. He also insisted that Gibraltar could offer a lot more to tourists. “A lot of people in the UK base their view of Gibraltar on Britain in the Sun (the Channel 5 reality TV show). “But there is so much more here to explore. I’d love to see military history tours take off, as well as tours of the fascinating old mining works.”

Get Pablo to Gib!

A LEADING banker has made a call for Spain’s controversial Podemos leader to visit the Rock. Manager of Gibraltar International Bank, Albert Borrell, 31, has appealed to the Olive Press to help approach the anti-corruption politician Pablo Iglesias, who has revolutionised Spanish politics. Praising his caring, socialist approach, he said Iglesias should see first-hand Gibraltar’s ‘predominantly socialist and wellbeing-focused society’. “He is a highly commended academic in international law and political science, as well as a strong leftist,” said Borrell (above). “Few have a better insight into the disenchantment of European societies with the current political class.” The Olive Press spent three days in Madrid in February, meeting the leaders of Podemos.

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the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

OPINION Helping hand IT may not seem all that noteworthy, in the grand scheme of the migrant crisis. But for at least one lucky family which Gibraltar is about to welcome into its community, life is about to start again. New school, new jobs, new shops, new friends… and it is hard to think of a better society for welcoming the needy and making them feel at home. This sends out a message that Gibraltar wants to help, and people like Dan Teuma, on the ground in one of the most hectic refugee camps in the world, personifies that message.

Catalan Confusion SEPTEMBER’S Catalan election has clouded Spain’s political waters. Artus Mas may claim victory for his pro-independence Junts pel Si, but failure to secure a majority of votes or seats weakens him. The hard-left CUP’s ten representatives gives secessionist parties a majority of seats, but they remain fiercely critical of Mas and diametrically opposed to his centre-right politics, so any alliance could prove difficult. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy refuses to countenance an independence referendum on the back of the result, but five years ago around 25% of Catalans wanted to break away. Now it’s nearly one in two. Friction along Spain’s regional fault lines has echoed over the centuries. It will rumble on for a good while longer.

FEATURE

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Desperate journeys As Europe tackles the growing refugee crisis, Rob Horgan reports on the radical change in mindset to a harrowing human exodus that has been building for years

Shipwreck saviours IT may not be the Titanic but the sunken ship in Ocean Village’s marina has been the talk of the town since it went down. Seemingly lost to the depths of the marina it is a warm relief to discover this sad event will be turned into an ecological coup. Hats off to the team at Dive Charters for attempting to turn a potential catastrophe into an environmental triumph. No doubt it will become a divers’ hotspot to be envied around the nearby Costas, at least.

Special delivery WHILE publisher Jon Clarke was papped offering newspapers to a Castemates statue, Olive Press journalists harked back to their student ‘leafletting days’ as they helped spread the news. Literally. Last month (in case you were living under a Rock), we launched our new Gibraltar newspaper and welcomed in a whole new Olive Press era. And you, in turn, welcomed us handsomely. Thanks to a distribution mishap, a red-t-shirted team of newspaper-bearing lackies made their way across Gibraltar, leaving no tourist, resident or worker unbefriended. We hope you continue to enjoy reading the paper, and look forward to reading your comments and suggestions, not to mention receiving your tips, seeing your selfies, re-tweets and Instagram and Facebook posts. Please send all comments, queries and story ideas to: newsdesk@theolivepress.es

the EE

GIBRALTAR

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Covering Gibraltar with 10,000 copies

Tel: (+34) 951 273 575 (admin) Accounts: (+34) 658 750 424 Sales: (+34) 692 725 475

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Gibraltar Olive Press represents the local and expatriate communities working or living on the Rock with 10,000 copies distributed fortnightly on a Wednesday. Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 (+34) 951 273 575 Carretera Nacional 340, km 144.5 Calle Espinosa 1 Edificio centro comercial El Duque, planta primera, 29692 San Luis de Sabinillas, Manilva Printed by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: (+34) 665 798 618 Tom Powell tom@theolivepress.es Rob Horgan

rob@theolivepress.es Iona Napier iona@theolivepress.es Joe Duggan joe@theolivepress.es Admin / Distribution / Accounts: Maria González accounts@theolivepress.es Mirian Moreno admin@theolivepress.es SALES TEAM: Chris Birkett Head of Sales (+34) 652 512 956 Stephen Shutes (+34) 671 834 479 Sarah Adams (+34) 655 825 683

driver of the crisis with four million people – nearly a fifth of the population – having fled the country since the savage civil war broke out in 2011. Many who have been virtually imprisoned in migrant camps across the Middle East with nowhere to go are now seizing their moment to join the exodus to Europe.

Hopeful

Car seat camouflage IN what police described as one of the more ‘bizarre’ immigration attempts, two Moroccan citizens were detained for attempting to smuggle a 20-year-old Guinean across the Melilla border, disguised as a car seat. They removed the padding in the seat and placed the man inside the frame, then covered him with a cushion. Then one of the passengers sat on him throughout the entire journey. current ‘crisis’ is anything but a new phenomenon. Migrants from African war zones have long been making the desperate journey to a new life in the ‘promised land’ of Europe, seeking work, asylum and a better life.

Long-running conflicts have displaced a massive 1.1 million refugees from Somalia, 2.59 million from Afghanistan and tens of thousands from Eritrea which has been dubbed ‘Africa’s North Korea’. Syria though is now the biggest

The true scale of the problem can only be guessed at. But an estimated 19 million people worldwide have so far been forced to flee their homes, with 42,000 others joining that number daily. Thousands of hopeful migrants camp outside the fenced borders of Spanish Ceuta and Melilla, attempting to earn and save enough money to make the dangerous crossing to Europe. The most desperate have attempted to pull off hazardous and often fatal schemes for evading border control, highlighting the utter desperation of their situation. Here the Olive Press looks at the various ingenious and often terrifying ways in which they attempt to travel.

Show of independence

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SYRIAN toddler lies dead, face-down on a Turkish beach. It was just one photograph but this powerful image brought about a dramatic U-turn in attitude to the refugee crisis. From ‘somebody else’s problem’, the epic migration of people fleeing their war-torn homelands suddenly became very real, touching the hearts and minds of billions around the world. With notable exceptions, the EU’s open border Schengen countries have agreed to accept migrant ‘quotas’, keeping their frontiers open to thousands of refugees in what has become a Europe-wide humanitarian mission. Spain is no different, agreeing to take in 17,931 migrants by the end of the year. Even little Gibraltar which, like Britain, is not part of Schengen, is in discussions with London to play its part in the refugee intake. The power of public opinion has, perhaps as never before, had a drastic impact on government policy Europe-wide. However, that mood could turn again as the implications of the sheer numbers of migrants hit home… and, in any case, the

Record Catalan voter turnout cannot be seen as a frontrunner for the independence movement

NE thing is a regional election. But another thing is a referendum to determine if a sector of a large population wants to break away from a country that people no longer feel they need to sustain them in the future. The Catalans clearly liked their pro-independence leaders’ choices on such matters, including their proposed separatist drive plans. On Sunday, voters in the northwest region gave hearty support to the pro-separatist coalition Junts pel Si which took 62 of the 135 seats in the local parliament, while fellow pro-indepence party CUP took ten It wasn’t such a surprise that the independentistas were given such a clear victory. The biggest eye-opener, however, was the amount of people who came out to cast

ballots on Sunday. Voter turnout was measured at 78% – the highest ever in Catalunya. Yet the remarkable number of ballots cast cannot be seen as a bellwether for the independence movement. It was a show of force by many Catalans who wanted Madrid to hear what they had to say about where they believe their future lies. More than half the seats in the regional parliament went to parties who do not support the separatists’ plans to detach themselves from the rest of Spain. The divisions in Catalonia are clearly deep and haven’t changed much since before the elections. There was no dramatic swing from one side to the other.

MADRI M ATTERD bitterly S

Catalans are split over the issue, which will only go to show that the next government will face serious challenges in its everyday affairs. Artur Mas’s stubborn drive to make Catalunya a new European country has left a bitter taste in the mouths of most Spaniards. Whether he is elected to stay on as regional premier, Mas will struggle to mend the holes he made in his relationships with Spanish institutions and the prime minister himself. The only way he can repair the damage done is by abandoning his plans for an immediate unilateral breakaway from the rest of the country and concentrate on the dayto-day administration of his region.

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ish enDire StraitMorocco, as well as the Span stination

FEATURE

e de ity to SPAIN’S proxima and Ceuta, makes it a prim e Strait, 12,549 claves of Melill spite heavy policing in th g 2014, either to Spain durin ity came from for migrants. De nts crossed in or illegal immigraCeuta and Melilla. The maj ber of Syrians by water or via rica but an increasing num sub-Saharan Afng here. are also crossi

Peril on the sea MANY migrants risk their lives crossing continents by sea in craft ill-suited to the tides and currents. Dinghies are most commonly used but pedalos and even surfboards have been used to cross the Straits.

Rubbish ruse SEVEN migrants, nearly half of them minors, made their bid buried in rubbish. They were discovered inside shipping containers full of junk metal and two technicians had to be drafted in to extricate the men, who were rushed to hospital with asphyxiation.

Border control

SPAIN is opening its borders to more than 17,000 refugees by the end of 2015 – a major U-turn from Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy who originally said there was room for just 2,749. With unemployment running at over 22%, the government said it couldn’t meet the 5,800 refugees the EU had asked it to take in July. But after the recent ‘crisis’, Spain has now promised to take the much larger number. This however, is ‘not even half the number’ it should be taking, according to Madrid-based human rights activist Ussama Jandali. “Refugees in Spain only have six months of protection by the government,” said Jandali. “During this time, refugees receive only €50 each month – which is not enough to cover costs – and they are given Spanish lessons, which are insufficient.”

Suitcase smuggler

AS a 19-year-old woman dragged along a heavy fuchsia suitcase, she looked warily towards security on the Ceuta border. Noticing her discomfort, hawk-eyed Guardia Civil agents pulled her aside. What they did not expect to see when passing the suitcase through the x-ray machine was the silhouette of a little boy, curled up inside. Fortu-

nately Abou, 8, survived his ordeal and told the guards he came from the Ivory Coast. His father, Ali Ouattara, was arrested but later released when he proved that he had paid for his son’s visa, and was neither acquainted with the smuggler nor privy to the illegal suitcase plan. The boy was granted a temporary visa to remain with his mother in Spain, her legal home.

the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

From the Rock to the Jungle

WHEN he first stepped into the ‘jungle’ refugee camp in Calais this August, Dan Teuma didn’t quite know what to expect. Nowadays the camp has become his second home. Gibraltarian Dan didn’t know what to do with his life after returning from Australia this year, but now he has one of the most unusual but necessary jobs in the world. As a refugee liaison officer, he wakes up at 5am before spending the entire day in the camp, meeting refugees, hearing their stories and working out how CalAid can help them. CalAid is the organisation set up by Dan, girlfriend Jaz O’Hara and a small group of friends, with the help of volunteers. “There was a negative feeling behind the whole crisis which we wanted to avoid, and instead find the human stories behind the headlines,” Dan, 29, told the Olive Press. “Calais is one of the world’s worst refugee camps which people don’t expect, because it is in France. “CalAid will continue raising money and putting donations into the camp throughout the winter. “Our main focus is to make sure that these people have food, tents and warm blankets. This is literally saving people’s lives,” he added. CalAid has so far raised £157,000, as well as van-loads of donations of clothes, tents and blankets. HELPING HAND: Teuma

Spare tyre squeeze SOME migrants have risked suffocation, severe burns and fuel contamination by hiding inside vehicle engines. Crossing into Melilla, three youths were discovered hiding in the body of a car with Spanish plates, curled up with barely enough air to breathe. One was contorted inside the space reserved for the spare tyre, and was unable to breathe properly or stand up when he was extricated. The other two men were concealed below a false floor.

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THE director of the Andalucian Women’s Institute visited the Campo de Gibraltar to see a project helping women who have been victims of violence and sexual exploitation.

Joining forces SAN Roque is set to join the crossborder group and participate in the search for ways to benefit the Campo de Gibraltar in conjunction with the Rock.

New ground A NEW hiking route designed for dogwalkers has been launched by the Algeciras Canine Association.

Burnt out THE crematorium at Algeciras’ Botafuegos cemetery is to be shut down and dismantled for major renovations, costing €50,000.

ANCIENT: Baelo Claudia and (left) geocache

Precious Roman ruins seek legal action over damage caused by ‘geocaching’

Hidden threat

THE Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia have encountered a new threat which has nothing to do with erosion or ageing. The increasingly popular activity of geocaching has been denounced for its negative effects on the site. Geocaching involves hiding objects for other people to find and then replace, using GPS coordinates and often clues. Baelo Claudia’s management says the practice is causing major structural damage, particularly to the stone wall of the car park where geocaches are hidden. They claim that stones are being moved, causing damage to walls as well as resulting in tripping hazards. Furthermore, they intend to TRAGIC: Algeciras port death take legal action to ban geocaching on the ancient site, in accordance with the Andalucía heritage laws.

Man drowns in car

A DEAD body has been uncovered inside a car which fell into the sea in Algeciras. The vehicle dropped into the water near the moorings area in the port. Maritime Rescue service alerted emergency services, the Guardia Civil and the National Police at around 12:30 at night. The body was recovered from inside the car and an investigation has been opened by the judicial police to discover the circumstances.

CMY

Horror crash

FIREFIGHTERS in Tarifa spent six hours removing a Spanish woman and her disabled son from a ‘horrific’ car crash. The pair, from Malaga, were rushed to an Algeciras hospital in a serious but stable conLA Linea residents have hit out dition. at radio station Cadena Ser The crash is reported to after it linked a hashish beach have occurred after the haul to the town. woman fell asleep at the A video of the drug landing wheel. shown on the channel’s website “They are both lucky to said ‘these images were recorded be alive,” said a fire serin Playa de Tubalitas, between vice spokesman. “The Duquesa Port and La Linea’. firefighters did a fantasHowever, there are actually tic job to get them out of more than 20km between the the wreckage.” two points. Firefighters had trouble One resident argued: “They removing the mother conveniently forgot the muand son from the venicipality of San Roque. hicle due to the car’s “Perhaps they don’t want to precarious position in harm Sotogrande’s glamorous a verge on the N340 image.” coastal road.

Hash huff

RAT TRAP AN infestation of rats and cockroaches is plaguing Algeciras residents, according to the PSOE. The left-wing political party criticised the lack of cleanliness in parts of the city, which have led to a spike in rat numbers. A Socialist spokesman called for ‘urgent action’ and slammed Algeciras’s mayor’s ‘lack of action’. “A large majority of the drains are completely blocked by dirt or debris, and in many there is even vegetation growing,” said the spokesman.

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Red, white and FREE

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FREE

Welcome to the Rock

PicarFIRST Minister Fabian do has given a warm welcome in to the Olive Press’ launch Gibraltar. the The father-of-two saluted paper’s original reporting and insisted his government to would give its full support aid our growth in the enclave. “I am delighted to cooperate all and to ensure you receive inform the help you need to Olive those who choose the Press for their news. stable “Welcome to the media in Gibraltar.”

Blown away

Royal Navy gunships Politicians call for British in Gibraltar during to be permanently stationed defiant National Day speeches British Navy DEFIANT calls for again in battleships to be stationed during a Gibraltar have been made rally. raucous National Day politicians deA group of 11 British focuslivered rip-roaring speeches with Spain sing on recent tensionsright to selfand backing Gibraltar’s determination. – a sea of red The Casemates crowd the patriotic and white – echoed Fabian sentiments as Chief Minister final address, Picardo delivered the salute to the centering around a of 75 years ‘evacuation generation’ ago. refugee criLinking it to the currenthe vowed to sis engulfing Europe, under the help as much as possible plea that ‘sharing is caring’. MP for But it was Conservative who Romford, Andrew Rosindell,

By Tom Powell

when he ingot the biggest cheer, should - once sisted the Royal Navy permanentagain - have battleships ly stationed in Gibraltar.are a part of “The people of Gibraltar and I would the Great British family here to apprelike to see a battleship to illegally hend any Spanish ship he said. enter British waters,” Ian Paisley Democratic Unionist MP international our are added: “These these are waters, this is our country, must support our people and we them.” this rock!” “We will never surrender address. he roared in a rousing ‘best wishes’ After waving a letter of Minister from the Queen, the Chief National finally vowed to increaseto come. Day celebrations in years

Day with celebrate National PARTY MODE: Gibraltarians macaque inflatable barbary due to its environmental ever be cent years – took place. “National Day will never will only get impactas the crowds gazed up at the diminished. In fact, it red white Then, sky, Tina bigger. We stand together, red and white speckled Simply the Best blasted and free!” he bellowed. the tradi- Turner’s signalling Following the speeches, balloons – through the sound system, almighty party. tional releasing of the in re- the start of an which has caused controversy

talking The Rock’s leader was Jusalongside his lawyer wife speech tine ahead of his key of the at National Day, one ‘most significant ever’. “It is He told the Olive Press: this particularly auspicious year with the day commemoof rating the 75th anniversary Rock, great evacuation of the week as well as coming in the UK’s the Queen becomes the longest serving monarch.”was A highlight of his weekat the watching Kings of Leon Gibraltar Music Festival. would “Not at the front as I joked. have got crushed,” he when “But I was blown away in the hands I saw everyone’s best air for Sex on Fire, the rock song of the last decade.” first reAs for a date for his to election contest, rumoured said: be on November 20, heknows “The only person who is my wife.”

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DEAR OP, I WOULD like to say what a great start to the Gibraltar Olive Press you have made. It was a very good first edition and I am so looking forward to the next and further editions. As a resident it is a breath of fresh air.

LETTERS

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Heaven or hell? Scaremongering

Never change

I’VE often frequented the bars around Italian Square in Duquesa and have never had a problem (I’m scared to go out, issue 222). I regularly go alone or in a small group of women and none of us have got into trouble. Yes, youths can be quite rowdy here and the Spanish maybe appear more so as it’s such an animated language. And in terms of a ‘botellon culture’, Duquesa is in Spain and we must respect native traditions. I think it is more a case of people being scared of what they don’t understand. I feel the owners of late night establishments should ensure their patrons move along quickly when leaving, but to be honest, I’ve seen much more drug taking in and around some of the larger British-run establishments in the area.

I HAVE to agree with the people complaining about Duquesa Port. I lived in Duquesa nine years ago and was beaten up quite badly after leaving a bar late at night. Unfortunately it doesn’t appear to have changed in the slightest. What it was then is as it is now. It is no different. Drugs, drinking and fighting: British expat’s favourite past times and that place is full of Brits.

Sam Smith, Sabinillas

James Boylan, Marbella

Kevin Valentine, Gibraltar

Thanks from US AS I set off for New York, I just wanted to say a big thank you for the continued support, last week’s article being yet another example of how the Olive Press supports local talent (Big jump to the big apple, the Olive Press Gibraltar issue 1). I really want to reiterate my point that local dancers, musicians, footballers - you name it - should get in touch with the OP as it is a great way to promote yourself and Gibraltar. Jonathan Lutwyche, Gibraltar

BATTLE AT SEA

Any ship’ll do GIVEN that Gibraltar’s waters are British under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the UK has a constitutional obligation to defend these waters as per the Gibraltar Constitution (Red, White and Free, the Olive Press Gibraltar issue 1). I do not think it matters if the UK sends a battleship or some other appropriate vessel, and there are plenty to choose from. At a glance there are as follows: Seventy-six commissioned ships in the Royal Navy; 19 commissioned vessels are major surface combatants (six guided missile destroyers and 13 frigates) and 10 are nuclear-powered submarines (four ballistic missile submarines and six fleet submarines). A patrol vessel or two may even do the trick. John Louis, Torremolinos

Double trouble Corbyn chance THANK you so much for highlighting Jeremy Corbyn’s support for the international Brigade memorial in Madrid (Corbyn’s battle for war Brigades, issue 222). Given the frenzied attacks on Corbyn in the UK media, your article is a welcome relief.

This guy needs to be given a chance, at least he’s not sticking his member in a pig. We are very grateful to the International Brigades and admire their commitment to the universal ideals of equality and freedom. A great article and a timely reminder that Corbyn needs to be given a chance. Almudena Cros, Madrid

Flying thought GIVEN the horrendous high cost of living in England, particularly the south-east, it’s no surprise some people decide to live in Spain and commute (Impossible commute, issue 222). They also escape the long winter too – many contacts in the UK are already needing the heating in September! However, I can’t say I’m jealous of the long commute even if it’s just once a week. I’ve got up at ridiculous o’clock for various contracts in the past, and it does take its toll on the body. I also can’t see how you save that much money when you fac-

tor in transit to the airport, and the meals at overpriced franchises. Vicky Pattison, Fuengirola

Lingo lesson AFTER reading last week’s opinion on translators I felt compelled to get in touch (Lost in translation, issue 222) I started groups of voluntary interpreters 17 years ago, working at five police stations on the Costa del Sol. Some were just doing the best they could with their limited language skills, they did and some still provide an invaluable service. I have known several paid interpreters who have had very limited language skills. That they are paid or unpaid does not define their ability. The important thing is to ensure the person you use is capable in the languages required. Julian Ward, Fuengirola

THERE are a couple of problems with the concept of stationing a Royal Navy vessel in Gibraltar. Firstly the navy doesn’t have enough warships to permanently support an on station frigate or destroyer due to cuts in the fleet made by government. And secondly there isn’t enough MoD accommodation to house the crew and their families and the support staff that would be required to keep the vessel operational as the vast majority of the MoD accommodation has been handed over to the Government of Gibraltar. Keith Harris, Gibraltar

Same old ship THE right-wing governments of Spain and the UK will both demand you sing the national anthem and go along with gunship diplomacy. The two are as bad as each other. Until the EU steps in properly the two countries will forever be engaged in a back-andforth tug-of-war which gets neither side anywhere. Olaf Olsen, Marbella

Letters should be emailed to letters@theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided. Opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

What’s hot on the web The top five most read stories on www.theolivepress.es in the past two weeks (September 14th - September 1)Costa del Sol port a ‘hotbed’ of drugs, drinking and violence, say Duquesa expats (8,982 pageviews) 2) Spanish air traffic controllers to strike in September and October (7,043) 3) American rapper films music video

on top of Gibraltar rock (6,254) 4) Man shot dead in car in Mijas Costa (4,707) 5) Freddie Starr ‘shaking hands with the devil’ as he flees to Costa del Sol hills (3,616)

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Property

11 theOlive the Gibraltar thePress OliveOlive June Press 11th June - June 11th -24th June2015 24th- 30th 2015 Gibraltar Press September 17th

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Safe at last! EXCLUSIVE: Peter Hain buys stunning Estepona villa

Page 13

SOLD OUT

Malaga company floats A LUXURY property company has become the first in Malaga to float on the stock exchange. Obsido, a Spanish-Norwegian company, debuted on the Mercado Alternativo Bursátil (MAB) this month at a price of €19.40 per share. The company currently manages two hotel resorts in Estepona and Marbella.

Why are shops selling out of paint in Gibraltar?

Page 14 NATURAL BEAUTY: Alcornocales Natural Park, while (left) Hayek and (below) Almoraima estate

Controversial Almoraima sale comes off the market after campaign by Olive Press and visit from Hollywood actress Salma Hayek

What have former Spanish PM Aznar and footballer Bentley got in common?

Page 16

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the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th

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Saved for the nation From Front Page of Property

ONE of Andalucia’s biggest and most important country estates, which attracted Hollywood beauty Salma Hayek, is off the market. Controversial plans to sell off la Almoraima estate in the Alcornocales natural park have been scrapped after the Mexican actress kicked up a storm to keep it protected. It came after the Olive Press launched a

campaign in 2013 when central government sanctioned a plan to liquidate the ‘key environmental’ estate, worth an estimated €300 million. Last year, the OP exclusively revealed that Mexican actress Hayek and her billionaire husband Francois-Henri Pinault had flown in to visit the 14,000 hectare property, in Castellar de la Frontera, near Gibraltar. The couple came close to buying the land after Hayek was left outraged at the prospect of it being trans-

The Hain in Spain EXCLUSIVE By Iona Napier

OFF THE MARKET: Estate and (above) Hayek

IT is fitting that a former Europe minister should appreciate the best of what European tourism has to offer. Perhaps that’s why Labour politician Peter Hain has bought a stunning Estepona home with plans to enjoy holidays in our balmy climate. According to sources, Hain, 65, exchanged on the townhouse in Cancelada earlier this year and has been coming back regularly. “Peter loves Spain and particularly that part of the coast,” the source told the Olive Press. “He is very happy with his new home and we expect to see him more and more.” Hain is not the only politician to have been seduced by the Spanish life, with Cecil Parkinson long owning a home near Gaucin and former UKIP MEP and media personality Robert Kilroy Silk owning a palatial Spanish villa just up the road in Casares.

formed into an ‘elite estate’ by a private buyer. The property is one of the last undeveloped cork wildernesses in Europe and home to thousands of rare birds and wildlife. However, under a proposal, sanctioned by the authorities, it was set to become a commercial hunting estate, with a mini airport, polo field and possible golf course. Typically, however, Spanish red tape and paperwork complications halted the purchase after the couple flew in by helicopter to view the property. Now the plan has been put on the backburner, with the estate confirming that it had had a profitable 12 months. “The past year has been much better for us,” a spokesman said. “In the past 12 months we have had a profit of €319,000 which means we no longer need to sell the estate.” He added: “At no point did we actually want to sell the estate, it was merely out of necessity and desperation.” In 2014, the park’s debt reached €1.5 million, giving directors ‘little choice’ but to try and cash in as pressure mounted from regional government.

HEADING TO SPAIN: Peter Hain However while Hain is moving over Kilroy is selling up, the eurosceptic having put the palatial 368,000 m2 pad up on the market for €12 million, as reported exclusively by the Olive Press two months ago. Hain is no stranger to Spanish politics having controversially called for joint sovereignty on the Rock in 2013 and recently used Podemos as a model for winning back Labour votes.

Tax break

BRITISH homeowners in Spain are in line for huge compensation payouts from the Spanish government. The government hit up to 30,000 non-residents with an inheritance tax levied on their homes between 2011 and 2014, but authorities have ruled they can claim back the tax.

10 14

the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th Property

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October 1st - October 14th 2015

Beginning to smell like Christmas… By Tom Powell

THINK Christmas and the smell of a freshly-painted living room isn’t what normally comes to mind. Unless you live in Gibraltar, that is. For residents of the Rock, a ‘winter clean’ is as traditional as pulling crackers, and this year is no different. Indeed, according to two leading suppliers, paint is flying off the shelves at more than twice the rate of the rest of the year. “It’s a local pastime, an ob-

Crowded house

SPAIN’s first ever crowdfunded home has been sold in Madrid. The Madrid flat was bought through website Housers. es, which brings together investors and developers. An incredible 49 people snapped up the two-bedroom apartment for €62,000, with €80,500 to be spent on refurbishing and taxes. Housers estimate the apartment will make a €33,123 return over five years for the investors, who are renting the property for €450 a month. Housers.es is looking to find backers for similar projects in Madrid, Valencia and Calunge, near Girona, with a minimum investment of €100 required.

Paint is flying off the shelves in Gibraltar as residents begin the traditional ‘obsessive’ prefestive spruce-up

session actually,” Eddie Lucas, boss of Interbuild, told the Olive Press. His counterpart at the Cornershop Paint and Trade Centre Daryl Moreno added: “Everybody wants to paint their houses just before Christmas, it’s always been the case. “That means whenever you smell paint, it reminds you of Christmas. “We see a big rise in sales in the run-up to Christmas and it has already started,” added the keen Barcelona fan, who has worked at Cornershop for five years. However, residents aren’t painting their townhouses in Christmas reds and greens. With over 15,000 colours in stock, Gibraltarians plump for everything from magnolia to mandarin sunset.

Making Andalucia easier THE Costa del Sol has seen an explosion of growth over recent decades and in order to be savvy with the market, it’s essential to speak to people who know their stuff. The small but very well-established Scandinavian team at Andalucia Development, in Marbella, has a wealth of experience in the Spanish and international real estate market. Since the company was set up by Kjell Hessedahl, Ulf’s father, back in 1981, it has been perfectly poised to be part of the immense growth of Marbella and the surrounding areas. The multilingual team is a ‘onestop-shop’ for your needs and can take care of all the details and bureaucratic hoops that are involved when buying or selling a house. Nurturing solid relationships with clients, lawyers, building and property management

Ulf Hessedahl and his Andalucia Development ‘one stop shop’ have been involved in property for over 30 years

companies and many more over the years, their connections make the whole process of buying or selling a house as smooth as possible. Their goal: to make their customers feel as comfortable as possible throughout what can be a stressful process. They also secure all of the practical after-sale aspects so you don’t have to worry about

a thing. With an approachable, welcoming workforce for whom nothing is too much trouble, the team at Andalucia Development would love to see you – drop in if you find yourself in the area! You can find them in Centro Plaza, Local 63, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella, call them on 952 816 250 or email info@ andadev.com

Home comfort IT’S not just the Brits who flock to southern Spain in search of summer sun… the Spaniards are also keen to visit. Andalucia was crowned the top home-holiday destination for Spaniards, according to travel website HomeAway. With 33% of the stay-at-home market, Andalucia proved more popular than Valencia (17%) and the Balearic islands (15%).

Eco-topia

IF sharing a single computer between 60 people, shunning modern conveniences and sleeping in a teepee is your thing, head to one of Spain’s biggest ‘eco-villages’ Matavenero. This northwestern Spanish commune was snapped by photographer Kevin Faingnaert

when he immersed himself in the romantically simple settlement. Spaniards are building a reputation for green-conscious constructions. Just last month, the first home to produce more energy than it uses was built in the UK by a Spanish architect.

Getting to know British buyers NEW research reveals the profile of the average British home buyer in Spain. Most expat Brits (74%) are aged 45-64, spend on average €200,000 and choose to live by the sea, according to figures published by property agent Tranio. The average property size purchased is over 100 square metres and the most popular destinations are Andalucia, Valencia and the Canary Islands. Tranio managing partner George Kachmazov said: “British buyers are the most active on Spain’s property market. “They make up 30% of all foreign buyers –

the French and Russians compete for second place with about 10% each. “During the last decade, English activity did slow down but it’s been picking back up again over the last year.”

Surge

The favourable exchange rate, the growing British economy and favourable Spanish lending rates are among the reasons for the surge in activity. Altogether, 30% of European Google property searches made by British people were for Spain.

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the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th Property

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Fairways to heaven

A British love for golf is putting the Costa housing market back on course, writes Joe Duggan

GREENS TO ENVY: On the Costa del Sol and (inset) footballers Phil Jagielka and Gareth Bale

RITAIN’S enduring passion for golf has played a pivotal role in our love affair with Spain. Justin Rose has been fleeing England’s rain-streaked shores for the sun-kissed fairways of the Costa del Sol and Murcia for decades, indeed every

chance he gets. For the 2013 US Open winner, sheltering from the elements under the dubious cover of a 12th-hole tree back in Blighty is but a distant memory. And, these days, the nation’s fervour for golf and dreams of a frontline home on the fairway

are helping to boost Spain’s resurgent property market as the country starts to exit the savage recession. Mark Twain described the game as ‘a good walk spoiled’ but, for thousands of expats perfecting their putts, Spain’s manicured greens are enough of an entice-

ment to turn a hobby into a new lifestyle with an investment in bricks and mortar. And for some, living within driving distance of the driving range isn’t enough. More and more expats are choosing to live in properties a mashie niblicklength from the course itself.

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David Hewitt moved to Spain eight years ago before making the switch to a home at La Duquesa Golf & Country Club. The graphic designer’s townhouse offers him easy access to the course. He was out enjoying a round with friends when the Olive Press first contacted him. “I have a view of the 10th hole. There is a driving range where you can practise,” he said. “The courses are better quality, and we have the weather here. But really I moved more for the location. “I like to play about once a week, but it depends how busy I am.” La Duquesa’s apartments and houses around El Hacho are home to hundreds of golfing fanatics – Scandinavians and Germans as well as Brits – who take part in tournaments and club social events throughout the year. They’re not alone. An estimated 160,000 British people own holiday homes near golf courses and, with nearly 60 courses on the Costa del Sol, southern Spain is high on the list of popular destinations. The constellation of star

Gibraltar October 1st - Octoberthe 14th 2015 17Olive Press September 17th - 30th

TEEING OFF: On the green and (inset) Aznar

names who have teed off on la, residents have been teeing local courses include Real Ma- off within putting distance of drid galactico Gareth Bale and their front door for the past 20 former Spanish Prime Minister years. The course, designed by Seve Ballesteros, boasts some Jose Maria Aznar. Premiership footballing alumni 1,500 properties. Ignacio Osle, Regional David Bentley Director for British and Steven firm Taylor Carr love the Most of the building Wimpey, points to the game so much, apartments phenomenal success they can often of Avalon, their latest be found swinghave a development at Los Aring their clubs wonderful queros. on courses “We sold the last propview around Benaerty in August, so we havis, while have no more left,” he their La Sala chief associate Ian Radford says. “During the recession, we kept on loves Guadalmina. At luxurious Los Arqueros Golf developing the Los Aqueros golf and Country Club, near Marbel- resort and we kept on selling out. “Our new developments are mainly built on golf courses, and that is what we are targeting for the future.” He estimates that 40% of the customers snapping up a Spanish golfing idyll are British, with others coming from the Middle East or Scandinavia. Such is golf’s continued allure, Taylor Wimpey is spearheading a joint development plan with La Cala Resort for two new golf home enclaves: Miraval in Mijas, a luxury development of 60 apartments, and a townhouse urbanisation christened Horizon Golf. “We also plan another development in Estepona Golf for next year. It will have 58 townhouses and 72 apartments,” said Osle. And with prices for a two-bedroom apartment coming in at around €200,000, business is booming. “We didn’t really have any competitors on the Costa del Sol until now but now there are inGOLF KINGDOM: Par for the course

vestment funds selling properties for between one and three million euros,” added Osle. The size of most golfing resorts means that their primary purpose isn’t that obvious to the casual visitor. Alex Twomey, 25, recently took a family holiday to El Chaparral Golf Club, but despite its floodlit greens and acres of playing space, the Londoner noticed no visible signs of golfing activity. He said: “It is massive; if I did not know beforehand that it was a golfing resort, I would not have known what it was. I was quite surprised because I hardly saw anybody in their golfing gear or with their equipment. “There were lots of British people there, though, and it was really beautiful.” Frank Rabbel, development manager at Bromley Estates, is well-versed in finding homes for the influx of British buyers and expats from elsewhere. His company is an exclusive partner with Valle Romano Golf Course near Estepona, where they have 570 properties. And with prices ranging from €103,000 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment to €181,000 for the most expensive penthouse, the championship golf course is a hit with Brits swinging their five irons. “Most of the apartments have a wonderful view. We have people, many of them Spanish, who buy because of our cheap prices but around 40% of the people are British,” said Rabbel. “We also have Germans, Belgians, Austrians and Swiss so it’s not a ghetto of one nation.” However, when it comes to golf, make that a united nation.

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the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th 18 Property Property

Get first in line for the bargain buys that won’t last forever, write Andrew and Shani Hamilton from Hamilton Homes in Manilva

Dreams in Duquesa www.gibraltarolivepress.com

HE property market on the Costa del Sol is hot to trot once more. And, as confidence grows, previously incognito parts of the coast are edging their way into the limelight. Duquesa Village, in Manilva, is just one location reaping the benefits from the recent rally in the market. Incredibly, all 200 bank repossessions that left the area high and dry three years ago have now been sold to international buyers. These low-rise Andalusianstyle apartments have now become thriving multi-cultural communities set in mature gardens with wellmaintained pools… and, a short drive down to Duquesa beach and marina on internal roads. The urbanisation of Duquesa Village, for example, was seen as practically a

October 1st - October 14th 2015

www.gibraltarolivepress.com

ghost town, but it has now become a desirable and sought-after community. One stunning penthouse property (see penthouse paradise below) with uninterrupted sea and golf course views and underground parking is selling for just €119,500. That is an incredibly good deal.

Brits are back The interest currently being registered in Duquesa Village is a reflection of how buyer confidence is back on track. The fantastic investment opportunities combined with the strong sterling-toeuro exchange rate has well and truly lured the British buyers back. This year we have seen a big turning point and when we speak to clients the gen-

LUXURY: Flats available at affordable prices

HAPPY HAMILTONS: Homes on the up

eral feedback is that now is the time to buy. We have had the same clients visiting houses with us on a regular basis over the last few years and each year they held off from buying because they felt that the market would continue to go down. But now they are less cautious and are finally starting to buy, in particular because prices have actually finally started to creep up and will continue to do so for the rest of the year.

copies of tax returns and their last three wage slips. Yes, it is taking a lot longer to get a mortgage than it once did but, with paperwork ready to go, mortgages are being approved. The bureaucracy may be tedious but prospective purchasers should be reassured that the longer wait is a result of much-improved checks against money laundering and ensuring the market’s foundations are solid. Banks are opening their doors to business. Believe us as we have worked for many of them, including Citibank, Royal Bank of Scotland, Credit Agricole and Barclays. Coming from a private banking background has taught

Trading up

FOR SALE

Alcaidesa 295,000 euros 3 bedroom semi-detached house Front and back garden 2 Large terraces • 2 ½ bathrooms Off road parking • Beautifully decorated Fireplace • Fantastic sea and golf views Furnished optional Newly re-furbished kitchen – All mod cons Conservatory • Marble tiles throughout 5 mins walk to the beach

Repossessed bank properties are also shifting well, with good mortgage options available once more and a new type of buyer emerging in force. Up until six months ago we saw the demand mainly for basic, holiday apartments but now we are seeing an increased demand for more high-end properties. But while the best deals are selling very quickly, the bureaucracy can get

complicated on the road to completion and patience is necessary!

Inside track Bargain bank repossessions are still to be had so it is not too late to take advantage. Don’t be disheartened if you haven’t bought yet as we must emphasise there are still good deals to be had. The banks still have properties to release but it is essential for buyers to get organised to pick up a bargain as soon as they come on the market. By ‘get organised’, I mean applying for your NIE number now, knowing your budget and preparing your paperwork. But if you don’t know the precise state of your finances, don’t panic. It’s far more common than people think. And remember even cash buyers need to provide evidence of how they make their money when they buy from a bank, complete with

us to pay attention to detail and to listen to our clients. Not only are Hamilton Homes in the business of helping you find the perfect place, we’ll secure you the perfect mortgage too.

Next step? The market is buoyant, the cogs are turning and Hamilton Homes is ready to help you secure that dream buy. Our company specialises in sales across the region, including Alcaidesa, Sotogrande, La Duquesa, Sabinillas and Estepona. We are looking forward to hearing from you. To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email olive@hamilton-homes.com

Penthouse paradise

Call John or Pat 956 791 394 / 627 119 860 PICTURESQUE: Views from the site

A TWO-bedroom, two bathroom penthouse in Duquesa village complete with communal pool garden and garage is finished to the highest standard. With a fitted modern kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, bathroom jacuzzi and stunning sea, golf, and countryside views, the marble-floored and air-conditioned apartment is a steal. It is on the market with Hamilton Homes for just €119,500.

To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email olive@hamilton-homes.com

Property

the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th

www.gibraltarolivepress.com www.gibraltarolivepress.com October 1st - October 14th 2015

Rustic dream SPECIAL FOCUS

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR SOME LOVE?

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5 5 - rebuilt in 201 • Built circa 189 ble bedrooms • 5 ensuite dou winter lounges • Summer and n/dining area • Rustic kitche tub on terrace • Wooden hot t grounds • Lush, verdan d with fountain • Goldfish pon ol po ter wa sh • Fre antique furniture • Collection of art tion of modern • Eclectic collec tion • Price on applica

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Located... mutable n station - com • Next to BenaojáSan Roque to Gibraltar via Granada, Ronda to Seville, • Train links via Madrid etc. del Santo k from Molino • 4 minutes wal g hotel & restaurant an award winnin Guadiaro Rio enclave above • Lush verdant Nieves Natural Park in Sierra de las car by 15 minutes • Ronda only minutes by car • Coast just 45

LOVINGLY restored five-bedroom house, walking distance from an award-winning hotel and restaurant and commutable from Gibraltar, has just come on the market. Casa Rio Vista is located in the village of Estacion de Benaojan, near Ronda, and is a mere three-minute walk from the station and sits in breathtaking mountain scenery. lable from: Further details avai The line is part of the famous ‘Mr Henderson’s Railway’, engineered and built by the British in the 19th century. laga las, Manilva, Má y.com 4, 29692 Sabinil Running from Algeciras to Bobadilla, which is often deesestateagenc C/ Isaac Peral 221 www.castl 891 952 4) Tel: (+3 scribed as the ‘Clapham Junction’ of Andalucia, from renovation beforehere Casa Rio Vista connections can be made to almost any city in Spain via the AVE. The British-owned house is only 400 metres from Andalucia’s third-leading hotel according to TripAdvisor, Molino del Santo, an extremely popular British-run, hotel and restaurant, which has treated locals and discerning foodies from the coast and Gibraltar for nearly three decades. When the owner discovered the ruin, which had been abandoned for decades, the roof had collapsed and the residents were basically a herd of goats. But he fell in love with its charm and location and using highly-skilled local craftsmen he has managed to reinstate the property and grounds. Reclaimed doors from a convent were hung and architectural fittings and stairs purchased from dealers throughout Andalucia. The grounds were landscaped and planted to form a verAL-ANDALUS: The interior has an Arabian feel dant enclave in the elevated position above the fast-moving Guadiaro River, which teems with fish and attracts wildlife. A popular walk - one of Andalucia’s best, according to writer Guy Hunter Watts - runs practically from the door down the river to Jimera de Libar. As well as local craftsmen the owner was keen to use local materials. The next pueblo along, Cortes, has a small ceramic studio run by a Spanish artisan and located next to alluvial strata of clay.

Beautiful

The artisan collects the clay from the river bank, crushes it and makes both ceramic and terracotta tiles to her clients’ designs and specifications. The house was slowly and lovingly restored over the course of a decade and almost became a work of art in itself, as it was reconstructed in the classic ‘estilo Andaluz’. The result is breathtaking with the five bedrooms all en-suite, a large kitchen/diner, a winter lounge with fireplace and office space on top. A beautiful summer lounge opens onto a shaded terrace and the sound of a goldfish pond’s tinkling fountain. The property is furnished with a wonderful collection of antiques and an imaginative collection of Andalucian and modern art, as well as Roman antiquities. There is very much a feel of Al-Andalus to the house, with Arabic-styled arches, as well as exposed oak and pine beams geometrically set above an amazing elliptical staircase. In an alcove within the garden is a rock pool that is fed from a mountain stream via an aqueduct. For an evening meal, apart from the Molino, there is, within the village, Asador Muelle and Bar Stop. It provides a three-course lunch for just €8. And a small gem in the village is the store that stocks all essentials. Ronda is a 10-minute drive away and, if you want the buzz and action of the coast, that’s just 45 minutes, while it is more than commutable to and from Gibraltar by train, via San Roque station. But then again, you might end up moving here falling in love with its peace and quiet and never leaving again. Price on application via estate agent Castles in Manilva www.castlesestateagency.com

EXPERIENCED ENGLISH SOLICITORS & SPANISH ABOGADOS Looking to buy a Spanish property? Contact us for your free guide to buying Spanish property safely & securely. We provide a wide range of legal services including: Conveyancing

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the Gibraltar Olive Press October 1st - 14th www.theolivepress.es March 19th - April 1st 2015

the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th Property

Top Dollar

NEWS IN BRIEF

Gib job boost UNEMPLOYMENT reached an all-time low of 164 in Gibraltar by the end of August, according to figures released by the Department of Employment.

Defences open THE Government plans to open up the Northern Defences for tours after having completed the second phase of the restoration project.

Housing hope THE GSD has vowed to improve the Housing Works Agency with an increased level of highlyskilled staff, should it win the election.

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September 3rd - September 16th 2015 October 1st - 14th 2015

Dear Santa…

No room A NEW hotel on the site of the Old Risso Bakery was refused permission for a 25room extension by the Development and Planning Commission.

the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th 23

CHRISTIAN BELIEFS: Hernandez of the GCoC

THE Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce has called for a government crackdown on unregistered employees in its election wish list. The Chamber’s board of directors has published what it believes should be the economic priorities of the new government, following this winter’s elections. A modern and efficient taxi service, an end to the unfair abuse of government accommodation and an annual political roadshow in

Chamber of Commerce releases economic wishlist for new government By Tom Powell

Spain are three of the key proposals. Chamber President Christian Hernandez said: “Our suggestions would help Gibraltar to become more competitive and resilient.

More workers than residents by 2025? THE employment level in Gibraltar has increased by more than 50% over the last decade. There were 16,000 people with jobs on the Rock in 2004, compared to 24,422 in last year’s survey, an increase of 8,000. If this trend continues, in ten years’ time there may be more people employed in Gibraltar than there are resident. Edward Macquisten, chief executive of the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce, told the

Olive Press: “The figures don’t surprise me because Gibraltar is so good at creating jobs. “Not just in the online gaming industry, which currently employs 3,500 people, but also in construction and financial services such as accounting.” Another 50% increase in employment would bring the number to 32,000 in 2025, just edging the current population of around 30,000.

“We hope to convince the political leaders to adopt all of these measures for their own manifestos.” The chamber believes a whistle-blower hotline set up to expose businesses hiring illegal labour and unregistered employers would be a significant improvement. Labour inspectors would then act on tip-offs and impose increased fines for those found guilty.

Tourism

Other suggestions include an annual increase in the minimum wage, a more holistic plan for the transport network in respect of tourism and reducing the employment disparity between the public and private sectors. To see the full wish list visit www.gibraltarchamberofcommerce.com

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It’s oil good THEY say money doesn’t grow on trees, and they’re right. But olives do. This determined La Linea resident was seen picking olives off council trees near the border for hours in the heat of the day. Despite being out of work, the man was eager to make the most of his time, and planned to make olive oil at home.

AGONY ANT

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES

ROSECUTORS and courts of EU countries can receive assistance from one another when investigating crimes. This has most certainly helped in gettng Baron Rothschild to court, where he will face quesions over a fraud involving hundreds of British pensioners. This is thanks to the Council Act of 29 May 2000, establishing the Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Member States of the European Union. The Act supplements the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters of 20 April 1959. However, it does not cover international police, extradition and customs collaboration, all of which are regulated by other laws, but measures required by courts and prosecutors in preliminary investigation and in court proceedings.

Victims

This act has been ordered by Alicante’s Denia Court number 1 in the investigation of alleged fraud in the marketing and sale of mortgages in Spain: the interrogation of the de facto owner of The Rothschild Group, Mr Baron David de Rothschild. To achieve this, lawyers acting for victims of the Credit Select Series 4 mortgage

Rothschild brought to rights C

Marbella-based lawyer and columnist Antonio Flores casts his eye over the murky Rothschild investigation M

loan have recently submitted to the Spanish Court a list of questions that Mr Rothschild should respond to, when summoned by the appropriate French Court. The deposition questions relate mostly to the extensive advertising employed by Guernsey-based Rothschild Bank International, owned by The Rothschild Group, to market and sell Spanish mortgages as a scheme to reduce potential inheritance taxes. Rothschild lawyers have cynically denied any knowledge of the proceedings and refused to collaborate, in spite of their meeting with journalists from El País, or when police officers visited the bank’s

branch in Madrid to deliver CY the summons. On this occasion, the officers CMY were fobbed off by dismissive K staff with a lame excuse that ‘he does not work here’. Mr Rothschild’s attitude is in contrast with his group’s advertised motto, ‘Harmony, integrity, industry’, qualities that are best underpinned by the Denia judge who, so far, seems unperturbed by the stature of the individual. With courts resuming their activity this week, there will be a mixture of expectation and hope among the victims of a fraudulently-sold mortgage loan who now need to know, sooner rather than later, what Rothschild’s top man has to say.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es

Sovereign Trust (Gibraltar) Limited Intelligent Offshore Planning gib@SovereignGroup.com Tel: +350 200 76173

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la cultura

24 www.theolivepress.es Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th www.theolivepress.es 24 the24

ON the Rock October 4, Classic static vehicle

display Organised by the Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association, this is a day for classic car enthusiasts on the Rock. Casemates Square - 10am to 3pm. Info at www. gibraltarclassiccar. com/2015/09/

October 6, GIDA European presen-

tation The dance event leaps into John Mackintosh Hall from 19.30. Tickets from ICC pet shop, info from Anne-Marie Gomez on 540 271 11.

October 10, Alameda Gardens Tour

People wishing to attend should meet at George Don Gates, Grand Parade at 10.30am for a walk around Gibraltar’s botanic gardens.

October 10, Mini Olympiad and

parade Police are organising a parade from John Mackintosh Square to Victoria Stadium before the event. Contact public-events@ royalgib.police.gi

NEWS

August 6th - August 2015 www.theolivepress.es September 3rd19th -2015 September 16th 2015 24 24 24 the Olive Press June 11th -www.gibraltarolivepress.com June 24th

October 1st - October 14th 2015

Think pink! GIBRALTAR will be dressed in pink this Friday with the Rock set to support Cancer Research UK. The charity has called on everyone to don an extra item of pink clothing to raise awareness of breast cancer, a n d subsequently improve rates of early detection and treatment. The event, now in its 11th year, also includes the Walk For Life on Saturday 10 October. The sponsored walk is open to all ages and abilities, attracting over 1,000 participants last year. Registration takes place on the day and costs £5.00, with warm-ups for the walk beginning at 10:45 in Casemates Square.

Brussels sprouts BUDDING young politicians from Gibraltar got a taste of the big time when they visited the European Parliament in Brussels. The group of students toured the offices of the various political parties before debating European affairs with British MEPS, including Clare Moody. Meanwhile, back on the Rock, their parents eagerly awaited their return, together with a box of Belgian chocolate, perhaps…

Survival studies New guidebook helps university freshers adjust to life away from the Rock AFTER 18 years in the sheltered surroundings of the Rock, heading abroad to university can be a daunting prospect for young Gibraltarians. But one local graduate is on a mission to make the transition as seamless as possible.

By Tom Powell Philip Vasquez – who studied at Cardiff University – has written Gibraltar’s first survival guide for uni freshers studying away from the Rock. Youniversity is packed with advice for students and their families, from what to pack to how to deal with common issues. “There are a lot of problems and concerns which are unique to Gibraltarians studying abroad,” Vasquez told the Olive Press. “No one has tried to provide a single resource for local students to make our lives at university more successful.” Vasquez began writing the book after finishing a degree in Cardiff two years ago, and

STUDENT SOFA: Author Philip with editor Stefano has continued to work on it while undertaking a Bar course at London’s City Law School. There is also a blog with extra tips written by additional contributors, tips.youniversity.co.uk. Every year around 900 Gibraltarians head abroad to study, a number which has

increased ever since the government began providing the financial backing for them in 1988. The book is available now to preorder on Amazon for £10 and will be published in late October 2015. For more information contact info@youniversity.co.uk or call 54027350

Wedding date FROM the flashiest photographers to the most tantalising tiered cakes, everything needed for that dream wedding – except the fiancé – will be on display at Gibraltar’s bridal fair this October. Set in the stunning Moroccan-style marquee in the Rock Hotel’s private gardens, the very

best in wedding dresses, decoration, catering and much more will be on show. Open from 5pm to 9pm on Saturday 17, the fair will be followed by a tour of the hotel’s brand new Victory Suite. For more information contact events@rockhotel.gi or 00350 200 73000.

KORA TRAVEL

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6th November, 8 days half board with 4 lunches, 3 days of 1st class train travel, dinner in a nomad tent and much more for only €1340 pp. Travelling in a small group you will visit Fes, Oujda, Bouafa and Meknes, walk in the fantasic sand dunes of Merzouga. All accommodation has been specially selected. We look after you from the begining to the end of your holiday. Coach pick up points along the coast!

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the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th

SPECIAL GIBRALTAR RECRUITMENT

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To fill your position look no further than the Olive Press recruitment section read by thousands of qualified and educated readers every month. Contact us at (+34) 951 273 575

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Your own car is required This position attracts a basic salary plus commission Full training provided

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Email your CV to jobs@sequre.co.uk. Interviews will be held in the Costa del Sol region during September.

Email your CV to jobs@sequre.co.uk or call +44 (0)161 871 2190

OVERSEAS

PROPERTY

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Epik Recruitment is a boutique recruiter based in Gibraltar, specialising in office recruitment at all levels within the Accountancy Finance, Insurance, Company Management and Legal sectors, with offices in Gibraltar and Spain. Founded in 2014, we have a large and existing client base and over 20 years recruitment experience gained within recognised and established recruitment firms. Epik Recruitment is staffed by local people who understand the Gibraltar environment, together with first-hand experience of the main local industries and the local Gibraltar recruitment market.

SPANISH PROPERTY VIEWING CONSULTANTS THE ROLE

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www.gibraltarolivepress.com October 1st - October 14th 2015

Downsized Abbey

S an exercise in fiscal responsibility, the past couple of months have seen me trying to downsize. Freelance journalists such as myself lead a hand-to-mouth existence, or more frequently, glass to mouth. One of the most important journalistic skills that I brought back from my time in London was my ability to hear the popping of a champagne cork or the rustle of a cocktail napkin at a restaurant function from 300 metres. A skill that has served me well ever since. Though I might have also inherited that particular talent from my long-suffering father, who can effortlessly graze a free buffet in the style of a herd of wildebeest across the Serengeti. But here a a few tips for living simply on the coast. One of the major problems is the fact that ‘cash is king’, especially if you spend most of your time in Marbella. If you want to be popular in this town, just rock up with a huge pile of cash, wave it around and see

Giles Brown gets down to some fiscal belt-tightening… Marbella style! how many new friends you get. You are also likely to find yourself with a sultry new eastern European girlfriend. Which brings us to my next, admittedly bitter and twisted point. If you are one of those deeply spiritual individuals that posts life-affirming stuff on Facebook, then you’ll know the hoary old chestnut ‘If you love someone set them free. If they don’t come back then they were never yours’. If you do think it’s time to re-evaluate your relationship with the blinged out bimbo from Belarus, try the equally life-affirming slogan. ‘If you love someone, cancel their Gold Card and delete their dealer’s number from their mobile. If they don’t come back they were never yours...’ Downsizing doesn’t mean that you have to

LIFE OF EXCESS: For Giles Brown

put a dampener on your social life, however. Staying in is the new going out. If you want to recreate the fun of hitting the clubs in Banus, merely tune into a dance channel and jump around the living room in the dark. You can replicate the thrill of buying a dodgy gramme by placing packets of crushed up slimming tablets around the house. Let’s face it, that was probably what you were buying in the first place.

Alternative

Should you wish to simulate the busy opening of a new restaurant merely invite your neighbours over and then squeeze into the pool pump room while holding a small plastic glass of vino collapso and greasy bit of jamon. Finally you should consider alternative ways of raising cash. Half of the coast seems to be baking cakes at the moment and growing your own fruit and veg is also an excellent way of healthy living and saving cash. Dabble in the more exotic variety of herbs and you might even make a few euros. The most important relationship if you want to downsize, however, is with your bank. As them to extend your credit facilities during this time of fiscal belt tightening. And if all else fails, in true Marbs style, rob it!

Men in supermarkets turn Belinda Beckett into a basket case

E do it once a week, only a minority of couples enjoy sharing the experience and 67% of women prefer to do it alone, according to ‘retail anthropologists’, aka people in America paid to come up with the staggeringly obvious. That’s the big ‘grr-ocery’ shop and we women could have told them for free that men are useless at bringing home the right bacon. Why it is that guys who are perfectly capable of making decisions when seated behind an office desk are at a total loss when asked to produce an inventory of domestic requirements otherwise known as a shopping list? According to research, most men never write one. They stare into the cavernous wastes of a refrigerator bereft of staples, then bring back crisps and pickled gherkins and enough beer to refloat the economy but nothing you can actually combine to make tonight’s dinner. Perhaps the emasculating act of pushing a supermarket trolley causes a testosterone blockage that leads to a brain melt-down. But when will men learn that that the first priority, when entering a Spanish supermarket, is to take a ticket for your turn at the meat counter? There’s nothing that turns me into a basket case quite like the sight of my loved one languidly feeling up avocados while a queue longer than Syr-

AISLE TAKE THAT: Shop rules lost on men

Off my trolley! ian migrants at the Hungarian border is building up in the butchery department, wanting everything cut up ‘en trozitos’. And unless your relationship is rock solid, steer well clear of the pick-and-weigh because what it is about men and tomatoes? Why can they never pick a firm salad tomato when they seem to have no problem at all in the breast department? Another rule of thumb is, never split up. You won’t find him again, no matter how many aisles you look down, until you meet up at the checkout. Then you’ll spend another ten minutes removing half the trolley contents

because your credit card won’t cover them, which drives everyone else crazy. But if you have shopping intolerance, join the queue. The average human spends 273 days of their life waiting in line and men must take some of the rap. They behave like kids in supermarkets. They want alphabet spaghetti and Variety Pack cereal. They want Tibetan goat’s cheese and kumquats and they want to go to another shop for the Guinness where they do it in widget cans. And never let them roam free in the toiletry department, where they’ll be thrown into a panic

attack by 50 flavours of toothpaste (with or without fluoride, coloured, white, gel or striped), ten fragrances of deodorant (stick, ball or aerosol?) and hair sprays with more varieties of hold than you’d find in the World Wrestling Federation handbook. We won’t mention the size of the bill, the last time I last let Him Indoors loose in Mercadona, the fruit mountain in the fridge (what do you do with kumquats anyway?) or the tube of Preparation H he mistook for moisturiser. But even if neither of us suffer from piles, it’s not all bad news. Sandra Bullock swears by haemorrhoid cream for reducing wrinkles!

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FOOD & DRINK

ED G IT IB IO N

IB N G TIO I D E

the Gibraltar Olive Press - June 24th the Press JuneJune 11th June 24th 20152015 www.theolivepress.es the Gibraltar Olive-11th Press September 17th - 30th the Gibraltarthe Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th -2015 30th 29 29 29 29 29 29 www.theolivepress.es www.gibraltarolivepress.com www.gibraltarolivepress.com www.theolivepress.es 29 Olive thePress OliveJune Press 11th June - June 11th -24th June2015 24th 29Olive

with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Tasting the Rock NEW CHEF ON THE BLOCK: Torres

New cookbook showcases Gibraltar’s multicultural flavours to the world By Tom Powell GIBRALTAR is undoubtedly made special by its melting pot of cultures, and the food is no different. It appears the Rock’s celebrity chef Justin Bautista, now with his own show on GBC, may have some female competition. Zoe Anna Torres, 38, has just launched a new cookbook exploring the multicultural flavours of the Rock’s cuisine.

Maltese, Genoese, Spanish, Moroccan and British sections all feature in The Rock’s Kitchen, with the pages sprin-

HEALTHY: The Mediterranean diet

On the meds THE Mediterranean Diet may soon be renamed the Medical Diet as now it’s even better for you than first thought. A high intake of fish, plant foods and most importantly olive oil has been linked to the reduced risk of breast cancer. The Lyon Diet Heart Study conducted in Spain found that those living on a predominately Mediterranean diet were 61% less likely to contract breast cancer. Consumption of olive oil has also been linked to lowering heart disease risk.

kled with the author’s childhood recollections. The book aims to promote Gibraltar through the best of its cuisine combined with anecdotal accounts of her life. “Each recipe is one piece of the puzzle that is Gibraltar’s people and our culinary influences,” Torres said. “I asked many friends and relatives how they made particular dishes. Each gave me their own ‘secret’ recipe passed down through the generations, written on scraps of paper blotted with grease passed down by their grandmas.” The mother-of-two, whose culinary skills are entirely self-taught, came runner-up in the Rock Chef 2013 competition. The Rock’s Kitchen can be purchased online from Amazon.

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Zero beer FANS of alcohol-free beer are clinking glasses as a new lowcal brew hits the market. Heineken is launching its firste v e r ‘Zero’ beer in Spain, with no alcohol a n d a low calorie count. B r a n d e d under Spanish franchise Cruzcampo, the beer will also have a lime twist. Spain is Europe’s top producer and consumer of alcohol-free beer, with 60% of beer drinkers opting for the booze-free variety.

Cheers-burger! WHAT better way to say happy anniversary than a burger and a glass of vino? That’s exactly what Burger King is doing to celebrate 40 years in Spain. Customers who share their Burger King experience will have a chance of winning one of 40 limited edition bottles of Whopper wine. The wine has been flamegrilled using Burger King broilers and aged in wooden barrels, giving it a taste to perfectly complement the Whopper, according to Burger King. Earlier this year, its Japanese unit came out with a Whopper fragrance. To enter, upload a photo to BK Spain’s facebook page, write a story or submit a YouTube video about a memorable moment at the chain. WHOPPER WINE: Odd

Out is the new ‘in’ FINE-DINING tourists are spending millions eating out in Spain, a new report says. Spending in Spanish restaurants reached €38.3 billion last year, according to the study by the University of Lleida, Catalunya. The Ministry of Tourism estimates that the 9.5 million foreign tourists who visited Spain with a strong interest in local cuisine spent on average €108 dining out each day.

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FOOD & DRINK the Gibraltar Olive Press September 17th - 30th with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

FLOWER POWER by Steven Saunders of the Little Geranium

Dish fit for a Queen

La Cala chef and Olive Press columnist Steven Saunders remembers the time he cooked for Her Majesty… and even shares his royal recipe

HE year was 1999 and we were about to open a new restaurant in Manchester, Steven Saunders at The Lowry. I was excited because it was a fantastic multi-million pound project built by the same famous architect who designed the Guggenheim in Bilbao, Frank Gehry. We called a board meeting to discuss the launch. “Why don’t you ask your friend Laurence LlewelynBowen to open it for us?” someone said. Now Laurence is great but this was a Millennium project for the North West. I had a better idea; “Why don’t we ask the Queen?” There were a few seconds of silence that felt like

Her Majesty does not eat garlic and hot spices among other things hours and then a typically left-wing board member observed (in his usual negative way): “We will never get the Queen to Manchester, you are dreaming!” Anyway, we still sent the invite, via the Mayor of Manchester, and anxiously awaited the response. Much to sceptics’ surprise, an official envelope duly arrived, which read: ‘Her Majesty The Queen of England would be delighted to open Steven Saunders at The Lowry.’ I was thrilled! However, what the heck did I cook for a Queen? It had to be special but conform to guidelines; for example, Her Majesty does not eat garlic and hot spices among other things. I decided to start with a vegetarian terrine, then a slightly risky blackened cod dish with wild rocket, followed by rack of lamb

Simply hamazing! HAMMING IT UP: Slices of heaven for food-lovers as competetion gets going

LONG MAY SHE REIGN: Queen Elizabeth II

COD FOR THE QUEEN Ingredients for 4 4 x 250g pieces of fresh cod skin on. For the glaze/marinade 2 tablespoons honey 1 dessertspoon of soy sauce 1 tablespoon sake 1 tablespoon mirin ( Rice wine or regular dry white wine) 4 tablespoons white miso paste 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Preparation Bring the sake, soy, mirin (or wine) and honey to a boil in a medium saucepan over a high heat. Boil for 20 seconds to evaporate the alcohol. Turn the heat down to low, add the miso paste, and whisk. When the miso has dissolved completely, turn the heat up to high again and add the sugar, whisking constantly to ensure that the sugar doesn’t burn on the bottom of the pan. Remove from heat once the sugar is fully dissolved. Cool to room temperature. Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Slather the fish with the miso marinade and place in a dish or bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Leave to marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To cook the fish Preheat oven to the highest heat. Heat an oven-proof skillet over high heat on the stove top. Lightly wipe off any excess miso clinging to the fillets but don’t rinse it off. Cover the pan with a little oil, then sear the fish skin-side down in the pan and cook until the skin crisps, about 2 minutes. Flip and continue cooking until the other side is browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to the oven and bake for 5 minutes or less, depending on the thickness of the fish, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily. Serve on a bed of wild rocket drizzled with basil oil or good olive oil and some of the cooking juices and season well. Enjoy one of Her Majesty´s favourite dishes !

Nicoise. The Queen adores lamb, but it has to be well cooked. I sat and ate lunch with her, and was told not to ask questions but only to answer them. She was adorable, it was like talking to my grandmother, she was so normal. “My son is also into organic,” she told me. “I am sure you would get on, I loved your cod!” “Ma’am”, I replied. “I know your son well. We work closely together. He loves sustainable fish and he has had my cod dish too.” When the Queen left, the press were all over me for a story. “Leave me alone,

please!” I said, throwing them a few titbits. “The Queen was like my grandmother to talk to, I was honoured to have her here, we had a great time together.” Ever since getting the Royal seal of approval, I have always tried to feature the cod dish on my menu. This simple dish really depends on finding the freshest cod possible. But you’ll also find it on the menu at our Little Geranium restaurant in La Cala de Mijas. Cod can be a bit flavourless so follow this recipe to get the most out of it… although don’t expect HRH to show up!

Steven Saunders FMCGB - www.thelittlegeranium.com steven@thelittlegeranium.com 0034 952 49 36 02

A MALAGA town has carved up the world record for the most people slicing jamon at once. Sierra de Yeguas drew 202 ham handlers from all over Spain making the previous record of 161 look ham-fisted. Spanish carving champion José Manuel Hidalgo and world-record holder Noe Bonillo were among those demonstrating how not to make a pig’s ear of the technique.

Over 200 ham handlers unite in Spain in charitable world-record event

But the nifty knifers weren’t just hamming it up. Their efforts helped raise money for Manuel Correro, a local man suffering from the genetic disorder Marfan syndrome and in need of an operation in Germany to repair damaged connective tissue in his body. Event organiser and profes-

sional ham cutter Manuel Novoa has now thrown down the gauntlet for other cortadores to try and best them. “I am overjoyed that we beat the record,” he said. “I challenge any group to try and beat it and then we will beat it again. “It is competitive but it is in the name of a good cause.”

MORE AWARDS FOR MOUNTAIN HOTEL Less than 2 hours from Gibraltar is another world If you are looking to escape the busy pace of life in Gibraltar and the Coast, look no further than Molino del Santo in the village of Benaoján near Ronda. An old watermill by a mountain stream has been converted into a stylish and friendly hotel and restaurant with excellent food. The Times newspaper has recently chosen this hotel as one of the 20 best in Europe for foodies so shouldn’t you discover why? Come by road or take the train from San Roque to reach a “piece of paradise” as it has been described. Molino del Santo is open every day but only

until 9th November 2015 so don’t put it off. What will you most enjoy at Molino del Santo? It might be the food, or the location in a Natural Park with eagles overhead, or the peace and quiet, or the relaxing atmosphere, or the attractive gardens, or the friendly atmosphere. With the same owners for nearly 30 years all of your needs are understood and met. A birthday, an anniversary, or just want to make someone feel special? Head for the hills at Molino del Santo. Nearly 900 Trip Advisor reviews reassure you that this is a very special place.

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FINAL WORDS

32 the Gibraltar Bumper pack BUMPER cars on ice have been unveiled as the Rock’s latest attraction at the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre.

Clampdown SCOTTISH footy fans have been warned they may be breathalysed before entering the stadium to watch their team’s European qualifier with Gibraltar in Faro this month.

Goodbye to the Blues EVA Carneiro is believed to be considering taking legal action after leaving Chelsea. The Gibraltarian doctor left the Premier League champions following a touchline row with Jose Mourinho and her subsequent demotion. She is now considering suing the club for constructive dismissal. It is thought Carneiro is seeking legal advice from a team of London lawyers. The FA is currently investigating Mourinho over reports he used abusive language during the incident in a match against Swansea.

Olive Press September 17th - 30th

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GIBRALTAR

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Our Holy messenger

POPE’S RIGHT-HAND MAN: Miles

FEW people have their words repeated and analysed as much as the Pope. But what happens when he doesn’t speak the most widely-spoken language in the world? Enter Gibraltarian Mark Miles. The humble priest is now the Pope’s personal translator, putting his holy message into English for global audiences to receive. His upbringing on the Rock equipped him perfectly as a bilingual EnglishSpanish speaker. The 48-year-old attended the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in Rome,

Down with the ship

the training ground of Vatican diplomats, which means his Italian isn’t bad either. But issues do occasionally arise due to linguistic discrepancies between Pope Francis’s Argentinian dialect and Miles’ Spanish. Nonetheless, the Pope has publicly praised Miles for managing to keep up with him, despite a penchant for ad-libbing. He has even developed a reputation for expertly imitating the Pope’s style, with pauses and laughter in the right places.

Ocean Village shipwreck set to get new lease of life as key ecological site EXCLUSIVE By Rob Horgan

SURROUNDED by super yachts and speedboats, the sad sight of a semi-sunken ship in Ocean Village has melted many a skipper’s heart over recent months. But despair not, the half submerged vessel is set to be finally lifted from its watery grave and moved to another more appropriate underwater site to encourage marine life around Gibraltar. When the ship is moved to Seven Sisters reef, near Rosia Bay, in the ‘imminent future’ biologists hope the sunken vessel will encourage the growth of marine flora. This will, in turn, attract increasing numbers of fish, it is hoped. Behind the plans are marine experts at Dive Charters who cannot wait to see the wreck ‘become a hub of marine life’. “Wrecks like this are great for marine life,” boss Tony Watkins told the Olive Press. “They encourage the growth of algae which in turn attracts fish, eels and octopus. “Before you know it, the wreck is teeming with life. It is great for the waters, for marine life and for divers and marine biologists to explore.” Work is set to begin as soon as the government grants permission for the wreck to be moved. While Watkins could not confirm what caused the ship to sink, an Olive Press source claims it happened after a pump was unplugged, causing the vessel to go down.

SUBMERGED: Boat to go on reef

Angels and lynxes all over again!

GIBRALTAR’S Premier Division season kicked off this weekend with all ten teams in action. Following the Gibraltar national team’s entry into EURO 2016, it’s the most hotly anticipated domestic campaign in years. St Joseph’s and Lions kicked off the season with a 1-1 draw in Friday night’s opening match. Lynx bagged a 2-1 win over Angels in Saturday’s early match before Manchester 62 beat Glacis United 1-0. FC Britannia and Gibraltar United played out a 1-1 draw square in Sunday night’s game with Europa and defending champions Lincoln Red Imps rounding off the first weekend’s fixture list on Monday night.