Olive Press Newspaper – Issue 260 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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By Joe Duggan

GARETH Bale’s future at Real Madrid could be put in jeopardy once the UK pulls out of the EU. But the Welsh wizard could be helped by a battle to give expats in Spain joint nationality. Post-Brexit, Bale would become classified a non-EU player and Real already have three players in that category. He would either have to be sold, or Real would need to unload one of trio James Rodriguez, Casemiro or Danilo. To avoid this, journalist and author Giles Tremlett hopes Bale will join his battle to give expats joint nationality.

Battle

The Madrid-based Guardian writer is lobbying for Brits in Spain to be given Spanish nationality. Tremlett is meeting with Spanish constitutional lawyers this week to create a draft law for his joint-nationality plan, which he will take to Spain’s central and regional parliaments. “Bale’s situation is just another of the messes imposed on UK citizens resident in Spain by Brexit,” he told the Olive Press, this week. “The Spanish government could fix this with an act of generosity by offering Brits installed here prior to Brexit dual nationality. Continues on Page 8

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Please end my highway to hell

EXCLUSIVE

Bale out Brexit

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A BRITISH rocker is suing the Spanish government after being fingered for a murder he didn’t commit. Expat Gary Owens is also demanding justice from the UK after a 25-year nightmare saw him jailed twice - wrongly - for the FIGHTBACK: Owens (left) murder of a Scandinavian expat in 1991.

EXCLUSIVE

By Laurence Dollimore

The 56-year-old, who has now been completely cleared, was twice held on remand in 1991 and in 2008, on suspicion

of killing wealthy Norwegian club owner. In total, he spent three years in prison, without being formally charged, over the death of Torbjorn Heta, 33, who was found down a well in Marbella. However, the guitarist, whose band A II Z played with the likes of Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden, is now in the clear. “Our lives have been ruined,” he told the Olive Press, this week. “We need an investigation and public enquiry at the national level both here and in the UK. “I want to know how the Spanish justice system could destroy my life...it is a total disgrace.” Owens, who lives in Nerja, explained how he had only met the victim briefly to discuss using his recording studio for

Spas to bars

Ex-Marbella Belle banged up over Gibraltar fraud charges

EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan

A FORMER TV star has been charged with six counts of fraud. ITV Marbella Belle Louise Marriott, 51, has been refused bail, after being charged with false representation and declarations. The close pal of Lady Diana’s former lover James Hewitt was arrested over her running of Gibraltar’s City International School of Beauty. She is accused of conning clients out of £15,500 (€ 18,130). The reality TV actress, who moved from Marbella to Gibraltar a few years ago, is accused of running spa classes without correct accreditation. “There are six complaints that she is not accredited to run these courses,” said prosecuting lawyer Sharon Peralta at a magistrates court hearing.

FACING TRIAL: Marriott and (right) with James Hewitt

“Full accreditation can only come through the correct exams which were due to happen later this year when an examiner comes to Gibraltar.” Marriott’s bank account with £2,000 in it has been frozen by the police. The court also heard that Marriott had applied for a Gibraltar ID card on the strength of an address that

does not exist. Her application for bail was denied and the case was adjourned until March 21. “If she is convicted she could be looking at a considerable prison sentence,” said Peralta. The Olive Press can reveal that the mother-of-three was previously involved with a health business in Marbella, called Posh, alongside her

ex-partner, a wealthy British restaurateur, now based in Malaga. Marriott, the former partner of a senior figure of the coast’s Ferrari club, she drove a Mercedes 4x4 and is believed to own property in Sotogrande and the UK. A former co-star of the hit ITV show Marbella Belles, described her as ‘stylish and outgoing’. “Louise was always out with the high rollers,” said Barbara Fawcett, 55. “She was always very stylish and glamorous and always had her hair done immaculately.” She continued: “It was no surprise when she ended up growing close to James. He was then the manager of the Polo House restaurant in Marbella and she was there quite a lot. “They seemed to get on very well.” One former Gibraltarian co-worker of Marriott’s said he was ‘surprised’ at her arrest’. “She was as good as gold and very reliable,” he said.

ROCKER: Gary Owens an album. Within weeks he was dead and Owens was picked up in Tenerife by 15 police at gunpoint. “Yet they had no evidence against me - they even found shoe prints at the scene that were much larger than mine. “I want to know why things are being covered up.” Eleven other people were arrested in connection with the killing but it remains unsolved. Incredibly, Esther Diaz, the judge who sent him to prison as a suspect, became the first in Spanish history to be suspended in 1994. “It is outrageous that my life and career was ruined. I had been about to work with AC/ DC, then suddenly it was all taken away. I want justice.” The UK Foreign Office said: “We provided consular assistance to a British man and his family after he was imprisoned in Spain in November 2009.” Opinion Page 6

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Stories and features in this edition of the coast’s number 1 English newspaper

That’s a rap! A RAPPER has been sent to prison for song lyrics inciting terrorism. Mallorcan Josep Miquel Arenas, also known as Valtonyc, has been sentenced to three years for putting videos on YouTube supporting terrorist groups such as ETA, and encouraging them to recommence attacks. “If I had known I would have killed someone, it would have been cheaper,” Arenas said in a tweet.

March 1st - March 14th 2017

New life for ‘hated’ mum

Getaway plane AN air steward has been arrested for stealing €40,000 from his airline The 20-year-old Ryanair employee was stopped as he tried to board a flight from Gran Canaria to Sevilla. Police detained him after an airport scanner detected the cash

in a suitcase. They found around €40,000 in several currencies, including sterling, euro and Swedish krona. The steward allegedly confessed to using a key to take money from a safe in a Ryanair office in the early hours of the morning.

Long wait for justice EXCLUSIVE By Chloe Glover

IMPRISONED: Valtonyc

CRIME

A BRIT who was conned out of €92,000 in a land scam is still waiting for his money to be returned 11 years on. Neil Riddoch (top), 58, is furious that two men found guilty of fraud over the sale of a nine hectare plot have not been made to pay any of it back. To add further insult to injury, the fraudsters, in Carataunas, near Orgiva, have not spent a second behind bars, despite only escaping a custodial sentence after they agreed to pay up within 18 months. The issue is a ‘continuing nightmare’ for Es-

SLAM: The plot of land

Expat demands justice after waiting a decade for scammed money

sex-based businessman Riddoch, who was scammed by the pair in 2006. “The Spanish judicial system is a disgraceit’s ridiculously slow,” said Riddoch, boss of London printing company Colour Fast World. After a long saga Granada Supreme Court ruled in 2013 that the pair must pay him back by early 2015 to avoid jail. “They were convicted four years ago but I’ve not received a penny since- I’ve almost given

up. It could have bankrupted me. “The only money I’ve received is €10,400 in court costs, which isn’t part of the €92,000 I’m owed. “They own a company so I just don’t understand why the judiciary didn’t freeze their assets until they had paid up.” Riddoch, who had intended to build three houses on the land, realised he had been scammed when he was sued by its legal owner, as the Olive Press first reported a decade ago. “I’m not bothered now if they go to jail or not, I just want my money back. “Something needs to be done urgently to reform the system to stop this from happening to other people.”

BRITAIN’S ‘most-hated mum’ is fleeing to Spain. Karen Matthews - who went to prison for staging her daughter Shannon’s kidnapping to collect a €60,000 reward - is moving to the Costa Blanca. Matthews, 41, is planning to rent a home and get a job as a cleaner, having applied for a passport. The mother-of-seven reportedly fears for her life after a BBC programme The Moorside recently dramatised the saga. Matthews, from Yorkshire, was jailed for eight years in 2009, after police launched their biggest ever manhunt, costing almost €5 million. Her daughter was meanwhile esconded a couple of miles away in her uncle´s flat.

HOAX: Matthews

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

FULL MONTY POSER: Fran Suarez

Oh, matron! A SPANISH nurse has been dubbed ‘sexiest in the world.’ International media have gone crazy for Madrid hospital worker Fran Suarez, who was recently discovered through his popular Instagram account. Pictured with a stethoscope around his neck and holding a newborn baby, Suarez, 27, now has over 92,000 followers. The Canary Island native, who even takes photos of himself at work, also considers himself to be a model and an actor.

By Joe Duggan

DAVID Bentley is jetting back to the UK after three years on the Costa Del Sol. The former Spurs star who has shares in La Sala restaurant - is heading back to England to work with the group’s Essex branch. But while it’s adios for now, Bentley said his family will keep their house on

The TV show, to be screened in April from the London Palladium, will mark the 20th anniversary of the box office smash, which made over £200 million. The six stars have been rehearsing in London with dancer Ashley Banjo for the show, which STRIP: (From far left) will support charities Movember, Cancer Re- Sleep, Foster, Judd and search, Everyman and Prostate Cancer UK. Wright

Bye bye, Bents

EXCLUSIVE: Football star David Bentley says adios to Costa the coast and plan to return around once a month. “We have had a great time here,” he told the Olive Press, while having a kickabout in the park with his three-year-old son (‘He’s quality’, he says’). “It’s one of the best places in the world. I love it.” In particular he said he

would miss skiing in Granada and shopping at Morrisons, in Gib. “Malaga city is also amazing and I’ll miss the golf and skiing, but we are missing family and friends back home. My sister has just had a kid.” He continued: “We always had a three-year plan and

Model award for Balti BIANCA Balti has been named Sports Illustrated’s 2017 Rookie of the Year. It comes after the Marbella-based model, from Italy, said she found balanc-

Pretty in pink QUEEN Letizia and Argentina’s First Lady Juliana Awada could have been mistaken for sisters when they met in Madrid. They both donned pastel pink skirt suits as Awada and her husband, Argentinian President Mauricio Macri, were received for an official state visit.

BEACH BOD: Bianca Balti

ing motherhood and dealing with her post-baby body while working as a swimwear model a ‘challenge’. “It is a challenge, but it’s also a pleasure, because we are lucky to have these problems! As soon as

I gave birth I had like 20 kilos,and I realised, oh my gosh, in one month I have my photoshoot,” she said, “But it empowered me a lot, because I was training twice a day, and then going back to my baby, sleeping with the baby, and I did it and I felt empowered like I never felt before.” Bianca added that she wants this achievement to show to her daughters that anything is possible. “They can do whatever they want, if you really want something, you visualise it and you go for it, and with me it happens all the time.”

we didn’t think it would be forever.” The ex-footballer, who also played for Blackburn and Spurs, is also hoping to get work as a TV pundit and as an agent when he returns home. And if that’s not enough, he has had a call from the team at BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. “I’ve spoken to Strictly but I just don’t know if I want to go down that road. We’ll have to see.”

Trumped up DONALD Trump has been thrust into the spotlight during Cadiz’s renowned carnaval. His controversial policies, surprise election win and that hairstyle are being lampooned through the chirigota songs that are being performed by choirs in the city from now until March 5. More than a dozen groups have already revealed they have dedicated some lyrics to the US president, including those headed by renowned singer Antonio Martínez Ares and Julio Pardo. But according to the singers, he will not be the only political figure in line for a tuneful critique. They also plan to satirise Andalucia Junta head Susana Diaz, prime minister Mariano Rajoy and Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias.

Photo by iCelebTV

ELLIOTT Wright is set to bare all for ITV show The Full Monty. The Only Way Is Essex star, who owns Marbella restaurant Olivia’s, will strip naked along with McFly singer Harry Judd, dancer Wayne Sleep and Olympic swimmer Mark Foster. Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden will also get his kit off for the show.

Returning to the scene PERU Two drugs mule Michaella McCollum has returned to Spain for the first time since being released from prison. It comes four years after the Irishwoman, 23, was caught in Peru smuggling more than €2 million worth of cocaine from Mallorca. The model spent three years inside a mosquitoinfested cell with seven other women for the offence, including her accomplice and other half of the ‘Peru Two’, Melissa Reid. McCollum wrote on Facebook: “Now that I have the chance, I just want to thank everyone who has supported myself and family through these past few years. Please know I truly appreciate each one who cared and had my back.”

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Drug plea By Chloe Glover

A BRAVE expat is pleading for help after being denied a vital lung transport operation. Becky Baker, who has cystic fibrosis, currently relies on an oxygen mask to breathe. The 32-year-old, from Coin, is asking Olive Press readers to get behind a nationwide campaign to legalise a pioneering new US drug called Orkambi. She is also searching for someone who may be able to help her find alternative medication. “I just want to live,” said Becky, who moved to Spain with her mum Sarah Spencer from Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset 20 years ago. “I’m fighting to stay alive every single day of my life and am in constant pain. “I’ve lost eight kilos (1.25 stone) in the last few months alone, have to take 50 pills a day and have to be tube fed at night as I’m burning so many calories as my heart rate is so high. “At the moment, Spanish doctors won’t do anything to help me. They will only keep me stable. “But Orkambi, which is legal in the US, is a drug that has been proven to boost lung function by thinning mucus. “I’d love to try it, as would lots of other people I know here.” She has teamed up with charity

Expat with cystic fibrosis believes new pills could help save lives

BRAVE: Becky Baker, now and before Fibrosis Quística Málaga to push cluding my new lungs. for its legalisation. “If there was a chance that I “We’ve been campaigning to could get more treatment or a get it legalised for the past year transplant in the UK I would go and yes it’s expensive costing back but the weather there is re€120,000 per patient per year…. ally bad for my lungs and I don’t but when you consider that think I would be here now if I’d some people who are using it stayed. now don’t need to take their oth- “If anyone knows of any other er medication or stay in hospital treatment that may help I would it’s not bad.” love to hear from them as I am Spanish doctors recently refused feeling very down at the moto give Becky a lung transplant, ment.” which had been her main hope Becky, who has a campaigning of survival. website called See Off CF Spain, “It’s because I have amyloidosis hopes to launch a fundraiser for as well,” said Becky. research into more cystic fibrosis “They said that even if I had a cures. kidney transplant too the con- To get in touch with Becky to dition would return and would find out how to help, go to www. damage my other organs, in- seeoffcfspain.com

Br-exodus - as they fight to leave UK! THE number of EU citizens leaving the UK actually increased by 17% last year. In the year of Brexit, the amount of people returning to the EU or moving elsewhere increased from 85,000 to 103,000 in one year. New figures also revealed that Spaniards registering as UK residents also fell by 2,000. Meanwhile, there has been a sharp increase in the number of Brits leaving the country following the shock June 23 result last year. The figures from the Office for National Statistics show that emigration from the UK rose by 9%, from 297,000 in 2015 to 323,000 in 2016.

Coast clear

WORK is underway to repair Malaga beaches wrecked by last December’s floods. A total of €4.1m will be spent on restoring sand and repairing the infrastructure of coastal areas stretching from Manilva to the Axarquia. Diggers have already been moving sand from one stretch of beach to another in Estepona and at Casares Marina, which were both badly hit from floods.

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www.theolivepress.es Voted top expat paper in Spain

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in Spain with an estimated readership, including the websites, of more than 500,000 people a month.

OPINION

It stinks

It’s outrageous that an expat’s town hall has repeatedly blocked or denied even a discussion on the nearby rubbish plant that is causing her and her family so much misery. She at least deserves to be given an answer from Mijas town hall, not a veiled threat that her home could be illegal. As a resident of Spain for 45 years, she has undoubtedly paid thousands into the system. You would think the town hall could show some common decency to a resident who has spent the majority of her life here.

fe at u re

March 1st - March 14th 2017

Extraordinary creatures Elsa Maishman rounds up the most at-risk members of Spain’s amazing animal kingdom

PAIN’S biodiversity is one of the richest in Europe but it is also among the most fragile. Climate change, urban development, human encroachment and

hunting are all taking their toll on the country’s majestic fauna, including some animals you may never even have heard of. Some wonderful conservation work is

being carried out but there is a long way to go before Spain’s endangered species are safe. Check out 11 native species still living life on the edge.

Iberian lynx

Cry for justice

The world’s most at-risk species and Spain’s most impressive success story to date. Once dead cats walking, combined efforts by the government, EU, WWF and other NGOs brought the lynx back from the brink of extinction in the early 2000s to more than 400 adults today. There is still work to be done though, as the lynx is still classed as endangered, with both illegal hunting and road kill continuing to take their toll.

Rockstar Gary Owens’ tale from riches to rags at the fault of the Spanish justice system should be a sobering warning to all. Spanish courts have so much to answer regarding how Owens, of heavy metal band A II Z, came to be incarcerated for a murder he did not commit. A quarter century on, we hope he is successful in his current bid to sue the Spanish government for allowing such injustice. But perhaps this case should also act as a catalyst to re-examine the policy of pre-trial detention. Surely, in this day and age, one should not be incarcerated until proven guilty?

Bale us out

GARETH Bale as expat campaigner is a fantastic idea. He may be a Real Madrid star, but his right to work in Spain post-Brexit is apparently up in the air as it is for all expats. Journalist Giles Tremlett is currently embarking on a furious lobbying campaign, as he seeks backing from regional parliaments and Madrid for his jointnationality plan. If the plan is successful, it will provide security for thousands of worried Brits living in Spain, a country they now call home and love. Getting Bale onboard would be a great coup, and would help publicise the cause. It’s a team game, and together we’re stronger. Publisher/ Editor Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es

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Sierra Nevada blue One of four endangered butterfly species endemic to Spain, the females are dark brown and the males a brilliant blue. But it is losing habitat to overgrazing, development of ski resorts, climate change and people trampling vegetation on pathways.

Spanish imperial eagle Unlike its migratory Eurasian cousins, this noble bird is a permanent resident of central and south-west Spain and parts of Portugal. The species was shot, poisoned and caught in traps until there were only 30 pairs left in the 1960s. Numbers have revived to around 300-400 but the eagle is still vulnerable to hunting, deforestation and chemical contamination.

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Pyrenean desman A small, semi-aquatic nocturnal mammal related to moles and shrews, the Pyrenean desman is one of Spain’s more unusual species. It is under threat from the construction of dams, pollution, mining and the invasion of its habitat by the invasive American mink.

El Hierro giant lizard Unique to a tiny four-hectare area on the island of El Hierro in the

Canaries, this large-scale wall lizard which can grow to two feet in length was only discovered in 1974. Now classified as critically endangered due to predation by feral cats and dogs, the population stands at 300 to 400.

WEBSITE

www.theolivepress.es Seriously threatened in the 1970s when numbers were reduced to just 200 breeding pairs, conservation has led to a healthy increase although this south west native is still listed as endangered. Illegal toxins used by farmers to kill rabbits and foxes make their way through the food chain to cause a serious threat to the black vulture. The birds also often meet a gruesome end in collisions with wind turbines which are constructed on elevated areas, their main habitat.

Fe at u re

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Cantabrian brown bear

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This Eurasian bear dwells in the Cantabrian mountains of the north. It’s a timid animal, and will avoid human contact where possible. The hunting of these bears was legal until the 1960s and the population diminished to just 80. They were finally granted protection in 1973 and have clawed their way back to more than 200.

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Broom hare Iberian Wolf Wolves roamed the Iberian peninsula until the 1900s but Franco started an extermination campaign in the 1950s and 60s, when they were classified as vermin. The campaign wiped them out from all of Spain except the Sierra de la Culebra in the north west. Numbers are beginning to stabilise but are still nowhere near previous levels. Conservation efforts have often been hampered by hunters and farmers who see them as a threat to their livestock.

This heathland-loving hare is another species endemic to the Cantabrian mountains. It lives high up among the peaks,but comes down in winter to escape the cold and snow. Their biggest threat is hunting, especially while they are isolated during the winter.

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Canary big-eared bat

Mediterranean monk seal Living across the Mediterranean and on the southeastern coast of Spain, this is the rarest seal species in the world. In the past, monk seals used to congre-

gate on open beaches but threats from sun worshippers have led them to seek shelter in less-easily accessible caves.

These moth-eating winged mammals are primarily found in elevated woodland areas and mainly hang around in caves and abandoned buildings. They are threatened by deforestation, pesticides and building renovation. Endemic to the Canary Islands, only two colonies are known, one on La Palma and one on Tenerife.

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Bail out Bale From front Page

“Gareth could continue to be proudly Welsh and, as a Madrid player, proudly Spanish too.” A petition by Tremlett and fellow journalist William Chislett calling for Brits living in Spain to get dual nationality has gained nearly 20,000 signatures (see story right). Spaniards living in the UK can apply for joint nationality after five years, whereas British expats can only apply for Spanish nationality, relinquishing their British nationality, after ten. In the last few years Spain has granted dual nationality to surviving members of the International Brigades, as well as descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain. “It’s therefore possible for Spain to allow a specific group of people joint nationality,” said Tremlett. He added: “These are exceptional circumstances. I don’t think it’s too much to say we are being expelled from our EU citizenship.” A spokesperson for Gareth Bale was unable to get a comment as we went to press. Opinion Page 6

Brexpats in Spain campaigners focus on lobbying EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan

AN expat campaigner believes Brits in Spain are ‘out of sight, out of mind’ to British MPs in Brexit negotiations. Brexpats In Spain co-founder Anne Hernandez has been lobbying politicians along the coast as she fights to preserve the rights of Brits living here. The university lecturer, who has lived in Spain for more than 30 years, insists most politicians ‘want us to remain and want to do everything to support us’. “But sadly, we are getting more support from the Spanish than the British,” she told the Olive Press. Speaking after a key meeting in La Cala, alongside the mayor of Mijas and Guardian journalist Giles Tremlett, she said: “Our first instinct was talking to the Spanish.

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

Out of sight out of mind PANEL: Key expat meeting

“We have been up and down the coast and everyone is supporting us. We have also had some very promising replies from the House of Lords, mostly from Lib Dems.” She insisted she didn’t want to go back to the dark days before we joined the common market. “When I first came to Spain I had to go to the police station every three months and prove I had enough money to stay for another three months and get a stamp allowing me to stay. And

Free parking crackdown

THE drop-off zone at Malaga Airport has been closed during major refurbishment works. The changes are aimed at stopping people parking there for longer than allowed and causing traffic jams. Visitors can currently stay for free for 15 minutes in the nearby P2 'first class parking' area.

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I was not permitted to work.” Mijas mayor Juan Carlos Maldonado also promised to fight for expats on the coast. “No-one realises your importance more than us,” he told the Olive Press. “There are 11,000 official British expats in Mijas alone and we really value them.” Health was understandably a major topic at the meeting, with Hernandez revealing that insurance could cost as much as €157 a month for people over 65 if free healthcare ends post-Brexit. Madrid-based expats Richard and Jean Appleyard, both 70, have lived in Spain for more than 30 years. “We are worried about the national health and our right to stay. It is a life-changing thing

that could happen,” said Richard, who has a season ticket at Real Madrid. “We are integrated here, we speak Spanish, all our friends are Spanish. The idea that someone could be using us as pawns is very worrying.” Barry and Phyllis Lissner, both 71, are also concerned about healthcare. “The medical side of things here is second to none,” said Barry. “In July 2013, I had a heart attack and an ambulance came. They put a stent in and they followed it up. “When I collect my medication I have about seven different tablets. “It’s about eight euros which lasts for months, which is very reasonable. “I am worried this could all come to an end.”

Plea for pooches

BIG-HEARTED volunteers are wanted to help abandoned dogs in need. Helpers, fundraisers and foster carers are all needed by Estepona’s Adana Dog Shelter. The shelter launched the appeal following news that 3,000 dogs were dumped in Malaga province last year.

“We really do need all the help we can get,” said Linda Maxfield. “We are constantly looking for volunteers to help with the day to day cleaning of the pens, walking the dogs and helping with their socialisation.” Visit www.adana.es or email voluntarios@adana. es

C.C Costasol 951 272 267 Estepona

PSOE returns A VOTE of no confidence in the former mayor of Frigiliana has brought the socialist PSOE back into power for the first time in 22 years.

Abandoned POLICE are investigating the ownership of an abandoned helicopter found with no documentation on a farm in Farajan, in the Serrania de Ronda.

Heating up FIREFIGHTERS in Malaga have threatened to strike in the first half of March, after months of dispute with management over the organisation and structure of the service.

Brief case THREE men have been arrested after stealing the briefcase of Marbella Mayor Jose Bernal in Madrid’s Atocha train station. The case, containing official documents, was quickly found by police.

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Final warning BRUSSELS has issued a final warning to Spain over repeated air pollution infractions. The European Commission has said that Spain could face legal action and hefty fines if it does not reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels within the next two months. Every year more than 400,000 Europeans die because of poor air quality. Madrid and Barcelona are the most badly-affected areas in Spain, with pollution levels of up to 53 micrograms of nitrogen dioxide per cubic metre (µg/m3), 33% over the EU legal limit of 40µg/m3. Granada has the highest levels of pollution in Andalucia, with 42µg/m3 in the Granada Norte station. Germany, France, Italy and the UK were also issued with a warning.

Expat battles town hall over ‘nightmare’ stink from rubbish plant

Tel: +34 951 127 116 email: ventas@kingofcotton.com www.kingofcotton.com Centro Comercial la Colonia, Avenida Virgen del Rocio s/n San Pedro de Alcantara, 29670 Marbella, Malaga

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A BRITISH expat is urging her town hall to take action over a stinking rubbish plant. Karen Wilkes, 64, has been living in a ‘nightmare’ for five years after Mijas Town Hall turned a plot of land behind her house into a rubbish dump. The ‘plant’ sees bin collectors dump their loads onto the ground before it is squashed down and picked up again to be taken for treatment.

Total garbage EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore

“The stench is horrendous,” Wilkes told the Olive Press, “We have to lock ourselves into the house so we can’t smell it and on windy days we get rubbish blown onto our property.” Wilkes and her husband, 67,

Salty dog DOGS will be able to enjoy the sand and sea of Marbella’s beaches for the first time this summer. For seven months from March 15, pooches will be allowed to play on two separate stretches totalling 500 metres in length. Part of Marbella’s El Pinillo and Nueva Andalucia’s Ventura del Mar playas which are less suitable for sunbathing have both been designated for the temporary zones. Miguel Diaz, Marbella councillor for sustainability, said that an ‘increasing demand for dog zones over the years’ had led to the decision to create them.

No more nuclear! GREEN campaigners have slammed the planned re-opening of Spain’s oldest nuclear power station. Environmentalist groups have aired their opposition to the possible reinstatement of the Garona plant in Burgos. An Ecologistas en Accion spokesman said it believed it could threaten public safety and furthermore set a precedent for the re-opening of other old plants. Station owner Nuclenor wants a 10-year-extension to continue running the site, which was opened in 1971 and officially closed in 2013. Despite having been given approval by independent regulatory body Consejo de Seguridad Nuclear (CSN), the Spanish government will have the final say. In 2011, the PSOE lifted a 40 year limit on the life of nuclear power plants in a cross-party pact.

from Dorset, are being treated for depression, on which they blame their ongoing battle with the local authority. “Originally the trucks were coming at 2am which we could live with,” Wilkes explained, “but last June they allowed trucks from Fuengirola to dump there too, and they began work at 10pm, and now trucks from Casares can also come here, starting around nine in the evening!” Wilkes has been sending letters for almost three years and got no response until 2015, when they were called to Mijas Town Hall. However, she said they received nothing but threats. “A lawyer at the town hall told me that my houses were illegal - which they are not - and she told me they were going to have them knocked down.” Wilkes let the matter lie until they granted permission for the Fuengirola and Casares trucks last year, which made her summer ‘unbearable’ as the heat only added to the stench. “They have promised me appointments and calls but have delivered nothing,” she adds, “They just don’t take any notice of us, when we tried to film them dumping the rubbish they threatened to call the police.” Wilkes, who moved to Spain 45 years ago, has planted shrubs and trees to try and hide the area from view, but it does little to silence the lorries, diggers and machinery. “I’m not asking them to move the plant, all I want is some barriers put up that would help block out the noise and maybe some of the smell.” Mijas Town Hall were unavailable for comment.

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Harsh words for Diaz MARIANO RAJOY has slammed Andalucian leader Susana Diaz while claiming the region needs ‘better leaders’. The Spanish prime minister made the comments during a meeting with Andalucia’s Partido Popular leader Juan Manuel Moreno. Rajoy said: “Andalucia has all it needs to be at the forefront of Spain and Europe. “The only thing it needs are better leaders, that work for the common interest and don’t just dedicate themselves to cementing their party in power.” Moreno, who will be running unchallenged for re-election as the region’s PP leader, later added that Diaz is ‘not compatible’ with her current role. “While she dithers around, Andalucia is bleeding,” he said. It is not yet known if Diaz will run to be head of the Junta again in 2019, as she continues to weigh up running for national leader of the PSOE.

Poor human rights AMNESTY International has slammed Spain’s poor human rights record. The human rights charity claims the country limits freedom of expression and gives an inadequate reception for refugees. It claims the government’s promise of taking in immigrants is woeful and needs to be urgently addressed with less than 10% of their promise of 17,000 immigrants so far allowed in. The country was also criticised for refusing to investigate allegations of police torture.

Peers urge Downing Street to back the Rock THE UK government has a ‘moral responsibility’ to Gibraltar during Brexit negotiations, a crucial House of Lords report insists. The 39-page study ruled that Downing Street should work hard to protect both the economy and sovereignty of the Rock. In the Brexit: Gibraltar report the European Union Committee insisted that at no point should No.10 ‘enter sovereignty discussions’ against Gibraltar’s will. The peers also urged the government to ‘remain alert’ to Spanish ‘encroachment’ over sovereignty and to clarify how a potential loss of EU funding could be compensated. “The Government has a moral responsibility to ensure Gibraltar’s voice is heard, and its interests respected, throughout the Brexit process. “We strongly endorse the Government’s commitment never to enter into sovereignty discussions against the will of the Gibraltarian people.” The report, compiled over several months, comes after the Lords heard evidence from leading figures, in-

P O LI T I C S

Our moral duty

March 1st - March 14th 2017

Caring car firm CAR rental firm Helle Hollis has raised €500 for cancer charity Cudeca. Marketing manager Christine Fleischer was pleased to hand over the cheque which came from clients entering charity number C0001 into the ‘charity code’ field when booking online. While the client got a 15% discount on hire, the charity got 10% of the discounted rate.

economy, at least in the short term’. The Lords peers called on the UK, Gibraltar, Spain and the EU to ‘work together to secure an agreement that reflects all their economic interests’. It added: “The Government should give early thought to how such a strucSPAIN and France's leaders have pledged to make the EU an unbreakture might be estabable force in the face of external threats. lished, what role the Mariano Rajoy and Francois Hollande want to lead a 'rapid programme EU might play, and of European integration' to pull member states closer together followshould seek agreeing a political summit in Malaga. ment on this in tanSpeaking at the Pompidou Centre, Rajoy said the EU would rise against dem with Brexit ne'populism and anti-European feeling' and would avoid another 'Brexit' gotiations.” situation. The report noted Gi"We must speak well of Europe and proclaim its values," said Rajoy. "Our objective is to be more efficient in finding results to the problems braltar will have reof our citizens." ceived €60 million Hollande added that EU opposers would 'isolate themselves and have in EU funds by 2020, less employment, wealth and protection." but it was unclear They outlined their continued commitment to work together in areas what would happen such as the economy and the fight against terrorism. afterwards. cluding Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and Port Authority chief, Bob Sanguinetti. In particular it stressed the loss of single market access would ‘have negative consequences for Gibraltar’s

Steady as a rock

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1 March

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la cultura March 1st - March 14th 2017

what’s on

Rainbow light

ntequera, March 4

THE Antequera golf hotel will host a charity Flamenco fashion show by Patro Flamenca to raise money for the Spanish Cancer Association (AECC). 7.30pm. Tickets €10 on the door.

ranada, 11

March

THE Coraxalia International Choir will perform Mozart’s Requiem with a full orchestra at the Auditorium Manuel Falla, as part of Granada’s Choir Festival. Tickets eucorax@hotmail.es.

arbella, until March 25

LOCAL artist Beatriz Ros has launched an exhibition of different art forms entitled ‘La Boca’ at the Galeria Yusto/Giner. Monday-Friday 10am-2pm and 5pm-8pm, and Saturday 11am-2pm.

alaga, April 2

until

FELIX Revello Toro’s exhibition ‘Ladies, Female Portraits’ features eight sensual paintings of women. Revello de Toro museum, Tuesday to Sunday. Entry €2.50.

Otis arrives

LOVED UP: Traffic lights

ANIMAL lovers have mounted a campaign to stop bull-fighting returning to their town. Over 2,000 people have already signed a petition on the Change.org website against the upcoming corrida de toros in Rota on May 7, the first to take place in the town for 12 years. Organised as a fundraiser for a local soup kitchen, it will feature local man and nationally-renowned torero Juan del Moral, who will fight six bulls. Campaigners want Rota Mayor Jose Javier Ruiz Arana to ban the event, which they have branded ‘barbaric’. “It’s a very archaic practice which should have no place in the 21st century,” said Julie Crowson, an English

A Cadiz town has introduced traffic lights depicting gay couples. Ten lights at pedestrian crossings in the centre of San Fernando show two women or two men holding hands, with a heart in between. Local councilor Anna Lorenzo

Seeing red

Anti bloodsports campaigners protest plans to revive bullfighting in Rota

teacher who has lived in Rota for 27 years. “Some people may say it’s just ‘culture’ but I reject that. Bear baiting used to

be popular in England, example, but would want that now? “To torture a bull and it slowly bleed to death

for we

let for

CARTAMA’S legendary septuagenarian ultra distance runner is the star of a fascinating new book. Straw-hatted athlete Francisco Contreras Padilla, who regularly competes in races of over 100km at the ripe old age of 78, has been celebrated in Super Paco: Kilometros de Vida. Written by his children, Ines and Francisco Contreras, it charts his impressive amateur running career which has seen him scale some of Spain’s tallest mountains while dressed in traditional farming shirt and trousers. It was written for his many fans who come out to cheer on the former textile worker, who trains by walking at least 40 kilometres each weekend and sustains himself during races with sandwiches and dried fruits. The book can be bought on Amazon Espana, and in some bookshops, for €19. LEGENDARY: Contreras

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said the move was intended to ‘normalise the fact that there are different kinds of couples among residents’. Similar lights were introduced in London’s Trafalgar Square for the 2016 Gay Pride festival where they are now a permanent fixture.

Marathon man

OTIS Redding III has chosen the Costa del Sol for his first concert in Spain. The son of the iconic Dock of the Bay singer, Otis Redding II,will play at the Sunset Beach Club in Benalmadena on Friday March 24. Otis jr. will reprise many of his father’s hits at his debut show in Spain. Tickets, priced €35 each, can be bought on the organisers’ website, 2trueentertianment.com

March 1st - March 14th 2017

Tel: 952 897 477 or email: thecurtainandbeddingco@hotmail.com

no other reason than entertainment is simply barbaric.” “Surely there exist better ways to benefit a soup kitchen that don’t involve cruelty or death?” Political party, Si Se Puede Rota, has also got behind the campaign by presenting the PSOE-run council with a proposal to modify local laws surrounding the treatment of animals. If accepted, it would ban bull fights along with animal circuses. The Olive Press contacted Rota Council failed to comment. To sign the petition, go to www.change.org/p/alcalde-de-rota-yo-rota-sintoros?

Snatched! A MEXICAN woman has claimed she was stolen from Spain as a baby during General Franco’s dictatorship. Ligia Ceballos Franco, who was raised by a wellheeled Mexican family, said she believes she is among the estimated 30,000 who were snatched from their real parents between 1938 and 1975. She claims the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Merida facilitated the adoption in 1968. After being told she was adopted, Franco found a document in Madrid saying her Mexican parents had received a baby. She found a birth record for Diana Ortíz Ramirez,

An authors’ tour of Andalucia THE rich literary heritage of Andalucia has been honoured in a comprehensive new book. Andalucia: A Literary Guide For Travellers takes readers on an enthralling tour of Spain’s largest region, as seen through the eyes of the countless authors who have been inspired by it. Lord Byron, Somerset Maugham, Ernest Hemingway and Laurie Lee are among the celebrated writers who have penned novels and poems after visiting at least one of the eight provinces, which are each dealt with in turn. It is the second joint nonfiction book for Andrew and Suzanne Edwards, following their best-selling Sicily: A Literary Guide For Travellers. It is available on Amazon for €20.40 in hardback.

Tired of waiting RESIDENTS of Velez-Malaga are fed up with waiting for their theatre to be renovated. A petition demanding work be started on the restoration of the Lope de Vega Theatre has gained 5,100 signatures. The council acquired the building for €500,000 in 2014, but renovation work has still not begun. “We demand that the investment be speeded up in order to revitalise the area and regain its splendour,” said Fran Delgado, head of the neighbourhood association.

Not Mrs Clegg ADOPTED: Taken at birth

which may be her real name. Her biological parents were apparently told she had died at birth. The targets of such deception were often opponents of the Franco regime. Ceballos Franco is now asking Mexican prosecutors to conduct an investigation.

NICK Clegg’s Spanish wife has let rip over a letter addressing her as ‘Mrs Clegg’. Miriam Gonzalez Durantez criticised the letter for not using her own name, which she said was ‘ironic’ as it was an invitation to an International Women’s Day event. The 50-year-old lawyer from Valladolid is married to Britain’s former Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal Democrat politician Nick Clegg. She is an active campaigner for women’s rights, and set up the Inspiring Women group, which recruits women with successful careers to speak to girls at state schools in the UK.

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PRING is finally here. And with it comes the promise of the start of Spain’s sun-kissed music festival season. The Olive Press has scoured the land to find the must-attend events in 2017. Grab your cervezas and sombreros and begin the party.

Primavera Trompeta, March 31 It may be best known for its sherry, but Jerez de la Frontera will get everyone into the festival spirit this month. Hip-hop talent Mala Rodriguez, flamenco-rockers Fuel Fandango and rappers La Raiz are just some of the big names who will play at this easy to get to local event. Tickets: €40, with camping

South Pop Festival, Sevilla, April 15-16 Discover the infectious sounds of some of Spain’s best-liked alternative acts. Altrockers La Bien Querida, Catalan-singing Manel and Standstill are among those set to play. Tickets: €40 weekend pass

Festival Interestelar Sevilla , Sevilla, May 19 to 20

la cultura

Spain’s

music festival guide 2017

Discover the must-attend events of the season in Andalucia and beyond

A free sister event to the renowned British Womad festival, it was founded in 1980 by Genesis frontman Peter Gabriel to introduce music lovers to sounds from around the globe. Expect memorable performances from musicians specialising in sounds and genres you have never heard of before. Tickets: Free

Primavera Sound, Barcelona, May 31-June 4 The cool kids of Europe will descend on a city industrial estate to celebrate the best avant garde bands in the world without getting their shoes dirty. Aphex Twin, Arcade Fire and Van Morrison are

just three of the enviable list of names on the bill. Tickets: €80 for day tickets

Gibraltar World Music Festival, St Michael’s Cave, June 6-8 Travel the world through sound at this boundary-pushing gathering. Headlining this year are Malian blues musician Bassekou Kouyaté, funk-fusion singer Gili Yalo and bassist Yossi Fine of Israel. A film showcase, street party and peace conference will run alongside the main concert events. Tickets: £35 for the main headline event.

Sonar, Barcelona, June 15-17 Founded in 1994, Sonar is one of Europe’s premier electronic showcases. Nicolas Jaar, Nina Kraviz and Soulwax will join up and coming acts at the festival’s two night and day hubs. Tickets: From €125 for two nights.

Ojeando, Ojen, June 30- July 1

Enjoy one of Andalucia’s most beautiful cities to an awesome musical soundtrack before it is overcome by its notorious stifling summer heat. The line up boasts a mountain of top class Spanish groups such as Love of Lesbian and Leon Benavente. Tickets: From €24 weekend pass

Womad Caceres, Caceres, May 11-14

March 1st - March 14th 2017 March 1st - March 14th 2017

Celebrating its 10th birthday this year, this indie festival is small in lineup but big in quality. Discover some of the best cutting edge European bands such as Basque group Belako and Norway’s Airbag. Tickets: €27.50 weekend pass, €43.50 with camping

PERFECT MIX: Kings of Leon (above), Prodigy and Mala Rodriguez

Weekend Beach, Torre del Mar, July 5-8 Twisted firestarters Prodigy will bring the heat to one of the hottest events on the coast. The British ravers are the headline act at the three day event, which will also include performances by a wealth of top class Spanish artists spanning electronica, rock, reggae and more. Tickets: €45 weekend pass, €60 with camping.

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without the mud and rain that comes with them? With Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kasabian, Foals and Liam Gallagher topping the bill, beach-side Benicassim could be the perfect choice. Tickets: €149 with camping

Starlite, Marbella, July 13 to August 26 Elton John is the big booking at this glitzy month long showcase - his only 2017 concert in southern Spain. The Bootleg Beatles and Anastacia are among the other performers who will grace the stage of the Starlite venue. Tickets: Pay per concert

Gibraltar Electronic Music Festival, Bilbao BBK Live, Bilbao, July 6-8 Victoria Stadium, August 5 Depeche Mode and The Killers are just some of the musical heavyweights heading up this year’s stellar international festival, alongside Die Antwoord, Justice and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. Take advantage of the festival’s fantastic location to explore the avant-garde city centre at the same time. Tickets: €115 weekend pass, with camping.

Celebrate the height of summer on the Rock with one day of back to back tunes and dancing. So far four acts have been announced, including Austrian duo Who Knows, English Jax Jones and Gibraltar’s own Basscake. Tickets: £25

Dreambeach Villaricos, Cuevas de Almanzora in Almeria, August 10-15 Set in stunning, desert surroundings, Dreambeach is a festival for those who seriously like the heat. The lineup is just as hot, with dozens of global dance acts such as Carl Cox, Chase and Status and David Guetta booked to perform. Tickets: €60, €80 with camping

Alrumbo, Chiclana, July 10-15 Attracting 150,000 people last year, hip-hop heavy Alrumbo, must be doing something right. Previous events have included Cypress Hill and the Asian Dub Foundation, while this year will bring top Spanish acts SFDK, Natos y Waor and Estricnina to the stage. Tickets: From €35

Los Alamos Beach Fest, Torremolinos, July 13-16 Dance until you drop in one of Costa del Sol’s best-known party towns at this beatsheavy bash. Nervo, Borgore and Axwell Ingrosso are headlining the bill. Tickets: €38, €53 including camping.

MTV Presents Gibraltar Calling, Victoria Stadium, September 2-3 Formally known as Gibraltar Music Festival, this year’s rocking event will be broadcast live on the famous MTV music channel, who are hosting the event. An announcement on some artists who will perform is due on Wednesday March 1, but previous stars have included Kings of Leon, Madness and Paloma Faith. Tickets: To be released on Wednesday March 1

Granada Sound, September 22-23 Benicassim, Castellón de la Plana in Valencia, July 13-16 Want a lineup to rival the best British festivals

Summer may be out but the party does not end in Granada. The lineup for this big end of festival season bash is still to be finalised but those already confirmed include pop acts Lori Meyers and Ivan and psych-rock band Sidonie. Tickets: €20

March 1st - March 14th 2017 February 1st - February 14th 2017 March 1st - March 14th 2017

15 15

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Number crunching

Dark times

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ferries Gibraltarians, VERY day, the N-340 tourists along Spaniards and sun-seeking years ago this month, the coast. But 80 the road to hell. of this main artery became road massacre is onecarThe Malaga to Almeria episodes in the bloody the most shameful Civil War. In February 1937, nage of the Spanish and attacked from land, with Malaga besieged of refugees fled the city sea and air, thousands That and headed northwards. elderly and the sick. Most were children,They were strafed by Frandidn’t spare them. with thousands killed. one co’s air force and navy, the desolation,” recalls “You can’t imagine in Yo Estaba Alli, a documenold lady, a survivor, of Malaga during the war by tary and oral history Professor Fernando Arcas. more University of Malaga were that there Paul “It has been calculated the road,” Professor than 100,000 on Press this week. but the Preston told the Olive to know accurately “It is impossible have been over 3,000.” death toll seems to modern atrocities in places The parallels with But this slaughter happened like Syria are stark. travel along each day. N340 on what is now the on his on a road most of us casualty rate was far fled Franco forces the smallest child estimated REFUGEES: Thousands “My father carried T h e higher than at Guernica, up his new book, also to travel shoulders,” she recalls. where it is thought so savage we had on Malaga, and launched “The bombing was shooting us from above, Alli. to 1,650 perished entitled Yo Estaba the atrocity at night. There were Fascist ships travelling at the hands of But the first book published about in 1937, a Cashooting from behind.” the German con- was written by Norman Bethune continued the bombardment with the up from Estepona dor legion. And nadian anti-fascist doctor who travelled The Crime of had from sea. yet the world refugees as they fled from Malaga. by Arcas as how, after the fascists One man describes he was forced to sing their seems to have The Malaga to Almeria Road is cited took place. executed his father, (Face To The Sky). “My faforgotten the the key first-hand document of what Dantesque anthem Cara Al Sol fresh,” he says. Malaga mas- Horrified by the dimensions of the as Franco’s men ther’s blood was stillrage welling up inside him, sacre. encountered, he Behune the scenes Another man, the at General Franco. defenceless group, the inDuring mowed down the to help spits out his anger was a murderer. A million Franco dictator- bravely used his medical skills “He doctor travhe says. ship, Arcas tells jured. It is believed he was the only dead, just like that,” things. me, the regime did elling in the convoy. A street has “I’ve seen so many up hontheir best to cover Many people killed.” been named in Bethune’s friend of his‘He was a the atrocity. in Malaga. For Arcas, a close the battle of the war by Eng- our A torian Paul Preston,the horrors “Books about the Hugh Thom- Bethune’s photographs vital murderer. a are refugees Brenan and for Malaga, and were they desperate of an atrocity which lish writers like Gerald dead, just of the road to Almeria,second clandestinely because the remember. million as were circulated tells me at a well-attended document a grim prelude to few now living can 2006 docuwere banned,” he of his film. like that. I’ve seen world war. During Arcas’s be Costa Press Club screening Malaga Almeria massamentary, old Malagueno the story could never war of the so many things’ “The “But under Franco Guernica, Picasso did survivors of theheartcre was an antecedent told. In the case of exhibited it in Paris recall, often in what huge civilian displacements a huge painting and happened there bebreaking detail, ago. 1939,” he tells me. Italian that took place from and the story of what German and happened 80 yearsthe film, one old man alliance Franco used Moroccan, came infamous. At the start of had no paintcity, an international to come names of his troops to take the “The Malaga massacre goes through the who died. He of what was which was a microcosm ing.” friends and family has been all painthe in 1939. The anniversary of events. reels off 20, the names how many died on will memory. His it “We don’t know exactly marked by a series fully etched into his the ferocity the says Arcas. Perhapsof men road to Malaga,” One group are retracing words are fired with the good work walking never be known, despite‘Association for the Rerefugees’ steps and bullets. of A how recalls like Emilio Silva, whose Memory’ search for the from Malaga to Almeria. Another old lady when they markcuperation of Historical memorial exhibition they fled Malaga approachvictims buried in unmarked opened in rumours that bodies of Franco’s ing the event has The massacre was heard troops were cutgraves. Almeria. club SNAPPED: doctor ing Francoist heads. At the Costa Press a talk chronicled by Canadian ting off Republicans’ screening, Arcas gave Norman Bethune of the war ONLY about the effects

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see website for details. & conditions apply, February 2017. to availability. Terms at time of print, flights only, subject year-round. Correct taxes. Selected not all routes operate Price one way inc. by departure airport, Destinations vary

Scarred for life My abuela, my mum and my aunt Carmen walked this road. They survived it, but my mum was a little girl and never forgot the planes strafing the road. I don't think she ever got over it.

refugees have breached the Spanish border fence at Ceuta in one group.

€5,982 is avera-

ge annual gender pay gap between Spanish men and women

€38,000 has

been given to Casares to spend on tourist infrastructure

DOG BREED DEBATE Following a vicious attack by unleashed rottweilers on an expat, reported in our last issue, our readers debated whether dog breeds or their owners are to blame

Carmela Craft, London

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Plea for action

Costa del cheap THE Costa del Sol has been named the third cheapest holiday spot for 2017. A study compared the prices of alcohol, coffee, essential items in ten countries to determine which hotspot would cost the least. Portugal’s Algarve was the cheapest, with daily essentials €38, followed by Bulgaria. The Costa came third with an average price of €44 for the items.

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February 15th - February 28th

MAULED!

THE family of missing Amy Fitzpatrick has made a fresh plea to launch a new investigation. Her aunt, Christine Kenny, led a vigil outside the Irish government in Dublin on what would have been Amy's 25th birthday to urge the Irish government to pressure Spanish police into following up unresolved leads. Fitzpatrick went missing from her home in Riviera del Sol, in Mijas, in January 2008. Aunt Christine Kenny, said: "We want to keep Amy at the front of everyone’s mind. "I want a set of fresh eyes to have a look at this case. That’s what is needed.”

Police search for rottweiler owner after British man is nearly killed while out walking his dogs

A BRITISH man came close to death when a vicious dog attacked his neck. Paul Hughes has called in police after he was set upon by two rottweilers on a country walk, near Marbella. The Essex man was left needing emergency surgery

after one of the dogs bit his throat just millimetres from his jugular vein. Hughes, 53, needed six stitches in his neck and was gouged several times on his right hand, while his family’s dogs Poppy and Molly

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“He was bleeding very badBy Chloe Glover ly. I was very scared.” received life-threatening He continued: “We didn’t injuries. know if Poppy He and his dad John, an ex- it due to her would make pat antique dealer, had been thankfully bothinjuries but she and walking in the Barranco Molly have survived.” Blanco valley, between Mar- He said the two bella and Coin, when the at- lieved to be owned dogs, beby a local tack happened. Spanish lady, came out of “It was awful”, said John, nowhere. 80, who rushed Paul and his “They were totally out of dogs for emergency treat- control, didn’t have muzzles ment. and were not on leads,” he “One of the rottweilers bit continued. him on the front of his neck, “At first they went for my very close to his jugular dogs and started biting Popvein. py, which was when Paul

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ED Sheeran has revealed how he fainted with pain while getting a tattoo of a famous Spanish church. The British Shape of You singer, worth €40 million, has had Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia inked onto his stomach during his trip across Australia last year. “I passed out while it was being done,” said Ed, 25, who has 60 tattoos covering his body and wants 30 more.

Vol. 11 Issue 258 www.theolivepress.es February 1st - February 14th 2017

EXPATS in Spain could be hammered by the British government’s approach to EU citizens, a leaked document suggests. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn insisted that the aggressive approach of the Tory Party is putting ‘families, jobs and homes in the balance’ and showing the ‘human cost’ of Brexit. He urged the government to act swiftly to end migrants and expats uncertainty and guarantee their rights to remain in their countries postBrexit.

Aggressive

“There must be an end to this Hunger Games approach to Brexit negotiations, which gives no consideration to EU nationals in our country or British nationals living abroad,” Corbyn said. He was reacting to a report drawn up by the European Parliament’s legal affairs committee, warning that the apparent reticence to give Europeans permanent residence status in the UK could lead to a backlash abroad. “The fact that it appears to be particularly difficult for foreign nationals, even if married to UK nationals or born in the UK to acquire perma-

Hunger Games

Expats’ livelihoods ‘in the balance’ over Brexit, says Labour leader as Brits abroad launch a fight for their future nent residence status or British nationality may colour member states’ approach to this matter,” stated the report. The document also pointed out it could now be left up to individual member states to decide if British nationals can live in their country. Since the June 23 vote, there

has been an almost 50% rise in EU citizens applying for permanent residency in the UK, according to the Guardian, that was leaked the report. There has also been an apparent drift of expats back to the UK, with a

rise in home sales reported by the official government body in Malaga that monitors property sales. The leak comes after the UK’s ambassador to Spain Simon Manley highlighted the economic benefit of expats

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An arrested soldier, a halted RAF plane...how a laptop with child porn caused a tense two-hour Gib border closure STANDOFF MYSTERY PAGE 5

INTRIGUE: The RAF Hercules was held up due to a laptop with sexual material of children

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intervened and that’s when they turned on him.” The dogs eventually turned back to their owner, who was then able to put them on leads. Warehouse manager Paul has filed a denuncia to the Guardia Civil in Coin in the hope of tracing the owner. “I am furious”, he said. “The two dogs are very dangerous and it is pure irresponsibility on the part of the owner. “I hope that the authorities can trace her before her dogs kill a dog or worse, a child.”

My dog was mauled to death in my own garden by my neighbours’ dogs (SAVAGE: Briton almost dies after rottweiler bites neck inches from jugular vein, issue 259). A horrible experience. The owners should be jailed. What if it had been a child? I'm too frightened to walk my dogs now as there are too many running free in the campo unleashed, unmuzzled and unsupervised. It’s a dreadful story.

Onus on owner It is the owner of a dog that makes a dog what it is. Any dog can bite and cause a serious injury or even death. I have a Rottweiler and a small dog, both loving and would not hurt a fly. I am very sorry to hear what's happened though, I hope the dogs and the owner who got hurt are okay. peans, especially those from the UK and other northern European countries, hence it's banned and has been for decades. It's your choice, but not all Spanish doctors are aware so just be aware. Wayne Filby, Malaga

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GENERAL Franco’s body could be dug up if a PSOE party bid is successful. The Socialist Party wants the dictator’s remains removed from the emblematic Valley Of The Fallen, 50km outside Madrid. The main opposition party’s motion will be debated in parliament in the coming months, but the outcome will be non-binding. The PSOE wants the vast mausoleum to ‘stop being a memorial to Francoism and be reconverted into a space for the culture of reconciliation.’ In 2011, the PSOE was set to return Franco’s body to his family, but the right-wing PP dropped the plan once it took power. The bodies of around 30,000 Civil War casualties from both sides are buried at the site, which was mainly built by Republican forced labour.

Francesca Khan, Mijas

The Spanish health system, especially private, is brilliant, but beware (Funeral Planner: Expat plans own funeral after taking lethal painkiller in Spain). NOLOTIL is legal in Spain and like this man I developed septicemia six days after being prescribed the drug following a major back operation. I nearly died. This is not scaremongering, it's true. Truth be told it only affects northern Euro-

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Franco’s final bow? HORROR: Expat savaged by

to Spain. The commercial relationship between the two countries is worth some €46 billion, he said, with a €10 billion trade surplus to Spain and €1 billion to Andalucia. Manley told the Olive Press: “From Prime Minister Rajoy down through to regional government presidents and many city mayor all of them tell me they value the presence of Britons in Spain.” He hinted that Spain might make a separate bilateral arrangement with the UK over expats in both countries. And during a meeting between Rajoy and Theresa May last month, it is believed the pair, discussed an amicable arrangement for both countries. Meanwhile, campaign group Bremain In Spain have backed demands for Brits to be issued with EU passports by Brussels after Brexit. If their petition gains one million signatures from at least seven EU countries, proposed legislation will be put before the European Parliament. Next Friday, The Guardian’s Madrid-based correspondent Giles Tremlett will address an Bremain In Spain discussion group in La Cala de Mijas. Opinion Page 6

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Why not? My Spanish wife thinks it's a great idea, and a lot of my mates who are Spanish want the same (Almost 90% of Spanish workers want to move to 9-5 British working day, issue 259). The siesta is an old tradition because of farm workers taking a break through the hottest part of the day, not necessary these days. No work gets done after going back to work after the siesta anyway, so better to bring it into the 21st century. 9-6pm including breaks sounds fair, still can have a late dinner at 9-10pm and 8 hours sleep. Gordon Colin O'Keeffe, Malaga

Missed opportunity Amazing… you would have thought anything that attracts tourists would be a good thing (AirBnB offer of truce rejected by Barcelona, issue 259). The more people who come and spend money in the economy has to be good. Shame they couldn't 40

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Barcelona rejects Airbnb truce

BUSINESS

No deal

BARCELONA authorities have rebuffed Airbnb’s attempt to broker a truce after months of tensions over short-term rentals. Letting giant Airbnb was fined in November for failing to comply with local tourism laws. “We don’t want Barcelona turning into a theme park where neighbours are priced out of their homes and local businesses come under pressure” said Ja- TOP DESTINATION: Barcelona

February 15th - February 28th 2017

ised to force professional landlords to provide business information on the site, in order to facilitate the collection of tourist tax. But city officials rejected this offer. A spokesman CEO: Federico Gonzalez said: “This is a joke. It’s not clear [whether net Sanz, deputy mayor in agrees to comply Airbnb] with the charge of planning issues. law and stop advertising ilEarlier this month Airb- legal apartments.” nb pledged to limit home Airbnb’s listings rentals to one property lona have risen in Barce- La Sala has announced to 20,000, in the central district of making it expansion the company’s ambitious Ciutat Vella per non-pro- fourth biggest city for rent- plans under its new CEO fessional user. Federico Gonzalez. als in Europe, The company also prom- biggest in the and ninth New beach clubs and an world. alliance with a global hospitality group are said to be in the works. Spanish-born Gonzalez, who holds a law and ecoto the UK. The difficulty in accessing sup- then please give us a call so that we can nomics degree from Bilport from social services in Spain means advise you what you may be entitled to. bao’s Deusto University that people often have to fund their own The and an MBA from INSEAD help with domestic chores and personal and welfare benefits system is complex business school in France, care. Many who do not make claims for tion at times confusing but misinformaput about by people who do not fully took on the new role on benefits end up having to return to the understand it will unfortunately mean February 6. UK as they simply do not have the money that many could miss out on that extra needed to pay for these services. “I’m honoured to have income There are of course other reasons why those which proves so invaluable to been chosen for this very living with illness or disability. For people do not claim the benefits they are up-to-date, exciting opportunity,” in-depth and reliable informaentitled to. A lack of knowledge of what is tion said Gonzalez, “This is a on what is out there for you, a family available or the rules of entitlement and member group that has achieved or a friend please give us a call. failure to challenge negative DWP deci- We unparalleled success since can take you through how you make sions means people miss out on what a first-time its foundation. To be ofclaim, ask for a review of an is rightfully theirs. Difficulty accessing award fered the chance to lead forms, finding the nature of them over- you and prepare you for and represent our 300 employees to at appeals tribunal. For more details whelming and wanting to avoid intrusive on all the greater above success please find is a chalcontact dequestions deter many even further. That tails below. lenge I am greatly looking coupled with feelings of pride and wantforward to.” ing to preserve their independence or not Kim The Sala Group has six lowanting to be a burden on the state of- tel: Clark Benefits Consultancy 950 169 729 cations worldwide, includten put others off. If you or someone you mob: 663 297 568 ing in Gibraltar, and has know is suffering from illness or disability www.ukbenefitsinspain .com several projects planned for 2018.

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he result of the referendum in the UK of June 2016 has created confusion and uncertainty for everyone and no less so for those living in Spain. What will happen to our healthcare, what will happen to our right to live and work here and also what will happen to our pensions are just some of the questions on people’s lips. There are also many people living in Spain who rely on the UK disability and sickness benefits they are paid to help them cover the additional costs of living with illness or disability. Since a CJEU decision in July 2011, firsttime claims for Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) care component, Carer’s Allowance and now also the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can be made by people living outside the UK in another EEA member state. There will doubtless be people who are thinking that their entitlement to these

Anna Cockell, Sabinillas

Increase checks

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benefits may cease sooner or later and others who think that is not therefore worth making a claim. But, as with so much to do with Brexit, nothing is set in stone and it is not certain what will change or when. Even assuming article 50 is triggered in March, the UK remains part of the EU for at least a further two years and is therefore still bound by EU law which means that the rules currently in place remain for that period and guarantee the rights and entitlement to UK benefits for those living in Spain and other EEA member states. If the UK does then end up leaving the EU it is still not known how much of EU law will be incorporated into UK law and so nothing is yet known about how entitlement to benefits may change. At this point there is no reason not to make a claim and lose out on money you may need and which could be the difference between staying here and returning

LIBERTYCAR

Are there police checks or medicals that you need to own a 'dangerous breed'? Perhaps increasing or introducing these would be a better route for lowering incident rates rather than banning the dogs. Ban the owner, not the dog. Angela Ferguson, Northern Ireland

Ban them! The breed should be banned. Yes, it is true that it does not always happen and that most rottweilers or pitbulls are well behaved, but it is a fact that they are more prone to go berserk than other breeds. Felicia Ang, Sabinillas

Not enough The owner of those dogs needs to face punishment, it is ultimately her responsibility and her fault. Those dogs should have been on leashes and should have at the least been muzzled. Surely she must have known they are prone to going nuts? Thank god there was not a child or toddler nearby. It’s a miracle no one has not been more seriously hurt. Anyonymous

concentrate on more important issues, like sorting out the illegal homes that have cost the country a fortune. Vincent Reynolds, Estepona

Silly! Well this is just silly - if true - and has been caused by unnnecessary fear (British expats selling Malaga homes in record numbers since Brexit, issue 259) . Additionally, it is not going to be easy to live back in the UK, it has changed beyond recognition and and it is not the same place that it once was. Robert Nicholson, Marbella

Quel surprise It’s amazing that this still goes on in a ‘civilised’ country (Activists move to ban animal circuses from Cadiz, issue 259). However, in a land that tolerates bull-baiting and the slaughter of millions of little migrating birds, one shouldn’t really be surprised. Stefjanjo, Estepona

Corporate responsibility Any cleaning up should be done by the company that contaminated the site i.e. Repsol (Calls to turn former toxic wasteland in Malaga into giant urban park, issue 259). In my mind that is simple but who’s going to push for that? More likely to try getting it done at the EU expense but I’d say that was very unfair to everyone except Repsol. Anonymous

Has anything piqued your interest in this week’s Olive Press? Have your say on the matter by emailing letters@theolivepress.es or alternatively message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OlivePressNewspaper or Twitter @olivepress “I am an expatriate like you and I've been a broker with Liberty Seguros since 2008. I’m here to find the Car Insurance that's best for you.”

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eddings

March 1st - March 14th 2017

1717

Andalucia & Gibraltar

Vol. 11 Issue 260

Andalucia is tailormade for trysting couples, with so many reasons to celebrate your big day here on the coast. And, as John and Yoko knew, Gibraltar’s nifty nuptial licences are the icing on the cake

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

Sandy splice Celebrity hotspot

ITH 320 days of sunshine a year, you’re nearly guaranteed a nice day for a white wedding on the Costa del Sol. And that offer is open to everyone, gay or straight. Enlightened Spain was the fourth country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2005. Andalucia is in Spain’s top tier for weddings. It proved the third most popular spot in the country to get hitched in the first half of last year, coming just behind Madrid and its northern neighbour, Catalonia. The almost 2,000 couples who have chosen the region to say ‘I do’ know what we know: that this area has a splendour that makes it a prime party location, especially for a celebration as important as ‘the big day’. You can always count on the weather to deliver, while its huge range of hotels, villas and budget-friendly establishments there’s an affordably honeymoon haunt for all. The popularity of destination weddings has spread like confetti in the last few years, and with tourists already opting for Spain over less secure rival destinations, the country is really taking advantage of the booming €15 billion industry. Marbella is the latest resort to set its sights on the marriage trade after ministers re-

vealed a new scheme to promote the glitzy Costa del Sol resort as a global wedding location during Madrid’s FITUR tourism fair this year. Tourism chief Javier Porcuna said he hopes it will bring visitors during the winter season, as well as during the buzzing summer months. And you can guarantee a celeb or two will be included in the statistics. Playa in Marbella star Elliot Wright is to tie the knot with fiancée Sadie Stuart on the Costa del Sol this autumn. They will join a host of stars who have chosen the coast, or neighbouring Gibraltar where you can marry with 48 hours notice, for their special day. Following in the footsteps of John Lennon and Yoko Ono who famously wed on the Rock (left), the late Status Quo rocker Rick Parfitt married wife Lyndsay in a nifty and thrifty €60 ceremony. Just seven years later, Rick Jnr. enjoyed an extravagant ceremony at Malaga’s stunning Castillo de Santa Catalina. Much like the rest of us, celebs can’t help but be attracted by the romantic hotspots the region has to offer; gorgeous Granada, sultry Sevilla, romantic Ronda, charismatic Cadiz and of course the glitzy Costa del Sol. Don’t let the red tape for non-residents put you off. Most ‘destination wedding’ Continues on next page

DREAM LOCATION: At Sal y Sol in Manilva and celebs who married here include Russell Watson, Rick Parfitt and James Blunt

●●

John Lennon and Yoko Ono famously wed on the Rock in 1969.

●●

Screen hero Sean Connery married actress Diane Cilento in Gibraltar in 1962.

●●

Status Quo rocker Rick Parfitt married wife Lyndsay in Gib in 2007.

●●

His son chose the costa with an extravagant service in Malaga’s Castillo de Santa Catalina in 2014.

●●

Brit singer James Blunt tied the knot with socialite Sofia Wellesley in Ibiza 2014.

●●

Opera singer Russel Watson enjoyed an extravagant Benhavis ceremony in the summer of 2015.

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Wedding special www.theolivepress.es

March 1st - March 14th 2017

March 1st- March 14th 2017 From previous page

couples get the official part done at home before heading to Spain for the dream ceremony, be that a linen-clad affair on a beautiful beach or a posh gala dinner under the stars. For same-sex couples, it is worth knowing that civil partnerships are only available if one member has been in the country for at least two years. However this rule does not apply to Roman Catholic ceremonies.

Rocky romance

Blessings

Those who don’t want a religious hoorah and find registry office ceremonies too basic can opt for blessings, offered by several expat officiators and priests along the coast. Expats or Brits looking for a more traditional day can look no further than Gibraltar, where ceremonies can be performed quickly and conveniently, much like John and Yoko’s. Many do the legal bits and bobs on the Rock before returning to the Costa del Sol for the afterparty made all that bit easier by budget travel companies, who are offering better deals than ever. The coast offers a multitude of ways to dive into a life of married bliss. Relaxed poolside ceremonies at palatial private villas are proving increasingly popular, while others are opting for the full church monty and all the bells, incense and whistles that come with it. A fancy hotel do is another option,

VARIETY: From the coast near Gibraltar to a church in Benahavis, where Russell Watson got married

and the coast offers up a bounty. The popular Sunset Beach Club in Benalmadena caters for hundreds of weddings a year, while the Rock Hotel in Gibraltar is historic and prestigious. The excellent well located La Bella Vista in Manilva can cater for up to 175 people right by the sea.

While the average wedding budget is a whopping €30,000 - and you can spend more - you can equally opt for a low-key affair at a fraction of that price. Spain’s wedding diversity, where same-sex marriage has been legal for 12 years, is the reason some 3,000 gay couples have tied the

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knot in the country, year on year, since 2006, But gay or straight, church or private villa, beach or banqueting suite, there has never been a better time to put a ring on it in Spain. It’s no wonder more than twice as many people come to Spain to wed as Spaniards go elsewhere.

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

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March 1st- March 14th 2017

Wright into shape ELLIOT Wright has been spotted working out with his fiancee in the run up to their big day. The Playa in Marbella star, 36 and his soon-to-be wife Sadie Stuart, 24, were spotted enduring a gruelling work out in Mijas. It comes after Sadie was seen shopping for the perfect dress. Sadie showed off her already sculpted abs in a fitted crop top and leggings while she was egged on by a personal trainer, before climbing up an intense ropes course. Elliot struggled through an exercise involving medicine balls before carrying weights on his shoulders. The genetically gifted pair announced their engagement last summer after 10 months of dating. Speaking in July, Elliott said: “I knew she was ‘the one’ because my kids love her!”

CAPTION:

On screen

CLERIC FOR CEREMONY Padre Peter

SERENA’S BIG DAY: Captured for Channel 4 documentary

Expat chef gives daughter away on TV

XPAT chef Steven Saunders has appeared in a wedding documentary in the UK. Channel 4’s heart-warming The Wedding Day documented his daughter Serena’s big day at the Sheene Mill in Cambridgeshire. The 17th century mill-turned stunning wedding venue, was once run by Steven and his former wife, but is now in the hands of their daughter. Serena said: “It was pretty intense, the Renegade Productions filming team followed us for the best part of a year. “The documentary ended up being really funny – it showed a bit about each of our families as well as the wedding itself and our decision to take the Sheene Mill on. “I worked at the Sheene Mill from the age of 11; it has been the home to so many of my happy memories, from my childhood swims in the river, to the recent years.” Serena’s dad Steven runs The Little Geranium, located in La Cala de Mijas, which has become one of the most renowned restaurants on the coast. The Wedding Day is available to watch on 4OD online.

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Same-sex marriage in Gibraltar was met with applause at the end of last year

IBRALTAR finally joined the world’s more forward thinking countries when it legalised gay marriage last year. The gay marriage bill passed almost unanimously in parliament and was met with applause by residents on the Rock. Despite coming some 11 years after Spain, the decision was met with praise from the majority of residents on the Rock. Minister for Equality Samantha Sacramento said: “The change strengthens the vital institution of marriage and ensures that it remains an essential building block of modern society.” Aaron Mills and Adrian Charles Triay-Dignam became the first

March 1st - March 14th 2017

Febru-

Equality on the Rock TRAILBLAZERS: Aaron and Adrian during their nuptials

WHAT YOU NEED Civil marriage (non-Catholic): In Andalucia the following are generally required, but do vary from town to town 1. Birth certificate (with sworn translation) 2. Passport 3. Consular registration certificate 4. Consular ‘no impediment’ to marriage certificate 5. Proof of Spanish residency: through copy proving empadronamiento Catholic: The Archbishop has the final say but, generally required 1. Baptism certificate 2. Sworn declaration by parents that son/daughter is single

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March 1st- March 14th 2017

same-sex couple to wed on the an recalls, “We flew all of Aaron’s Rock on December 16 last year. family from the UK over specifi“I work for the Borders & Coast- cally for the ceremony.” guard Agency so I checked his The pair received a warm conpassport and that’s how we met,” gratulations from Chief Minister Aaron recalls. Fabian Picardo. “He used to spot me every day “To see everyone come together and one day he called me over to and really dress up made it that stamp my passport… and the rest much more special for us.” is history,” adds Adrian. And with camera and film crews The fight for equal present to mark marriage in Gibralthe historic day, it tar was fronted by was only a matter the Equality Rights ‘I received calls of time before the Group from 2012 story grabbed the when the Rock low- from Australia and attention of the ered the consent Spain and we were world’s press. age for same-sex “I received calls relations to 16 - even in Pink News’ from Australia and and took four years Spain and we were to win. even in Pink News,” The couple had set Aaron gushes. their wedding date for December The momentous day brought Gi2016 a year earlier, unaware that braltar in line with the rest of the the marriage act would pass in free world, and reminded everytime. one that love is love, no matter “A couple of days before our civil who it is between. As Adrian says: partnership, we got the call ask- “Love is waking up in the morning us to pop in and do all the ing, looking at the personnext to paperwork again if we wanted to you and thinking ‘my god, I’m so be the first to get married,” Adri- lucky.’”

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Sweet as a knot

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And they are available at literally any time, providing assistance 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, including bank holidays. Dealing exclusively with weddings on the Rock, the experienced team make the process as easy as possible and ensure there are no hidden fees. Having daily contact with the registrar and every venue representative - as well as the best florists, makeup artists, bakers and more - means you will struggle to find a better company to handle your big day. For more information, visit www.sweetgibraltarweddings.com or call 0035054024179

Church challenge

Bouquet for the virgin WEDDING customs vary across Spain and in some areas, for example, the bride offers her bouquet to the Virgin Mary; while in others it’s given to a best friend or thrown into the crowd. It is also common to throw rice, not confetti, over the bridge and groom.

Shoe-mento EVERYONE likes a memento of their special day, and if you’re a shoe-lover, look no further than expat artist Debbie Lush. Debbie, from Dublin, has exhibited across Ireland, Dubai and Marbella and most recently signed with the exclusive Atrium gallery. One of her most famous collections is that of Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik shoes. “They became very popular in Ireland, and suddenly brides and bridesmaids were asking me to paint the shoes they were wearing on the big day,” explains Debbie, 37, who also gives private art classes. “It’s a real nice memento and something a bit different, and they are all painted with oil and can come

CHURCH weddings have hit an all time low in Spain as couples opt for more nonreligious ceremonies. Only 22.2% of 68,560 couples tied the knot at the country’s Catholic altars in the first half of 2016. That is a huge fall from the same period in the year 2000, when 75% had a Catholic ceremony. Barcelona province had the lowest number of Christian ceremonies in mainland Spain, at only 10.5%. Malaga saw the least in Andalucia, with 21.6%.

Beat the heat

LOCAL TALENT: Debbie

framed.” For more information contact Debbie on 658 497 186 or dlushdesigns@gmail.com or visit www.lushdesigns.ie.

IN Andalucia, summer weddings unsurprisingly take place at around 7 or 8pm, after the oppressive heat of the day has subsided. After a short wedding ceremony it’s usually off to a local restaurant - or ‘celebrations’ venue - for the set meal or buffet with plenty of wine that flows until the early hours until no guests are left!

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February 17th - March 1st 2016 March 1st- March 14th 2017

Nailing it

Paul Foster and his amazing team will deliver a polished performance for your big day

OOKING your best for the nail-biting big day means making sure you have every tiny detail covered, right down to your fingertips. Paul has always acquired an amazing following of clientele, hence the Paul Foster Nail Boutique opened in Marbella two years ago and has been fully booked ever since. But that's no surprise as the head honcho's pre-nuptial pampering parties are the toast of the coast. "I love having wedding parties," Paul says, "It's amazing being a part of someone's special day, and we get such a great atmosphere in the boutique." His reviews will give you a clue, with 47 out of 49 giving the salon's polished performance a five-star rating on Facebook. And it's no surprise, as brides and hens can get the whole salon to themselves and receive the full works. "We supply champagne, tapas

and snacks, it's a real personal service, they only get this day once so we always want to make it special. The salon isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t probably what you are imagining also, the high spec salon is designed to a different level.â&#x20AC;? Paul has been in the beauty business since he was 16 when he was soon bitten by the manicuring bug and now has many years experience as a master nail technician under his belt, including a stint at world-class Harrods of London and years of offering bespoke mobile services to a little black book of exclusive global clients. "This isn't my job, it's my passion, I love coming to work," he enthuses. "We all do, and I think that shines through to the customers and makes them feel happy too." Paul opened up his shop in 2014 after switching Leeds for Marbella some nine years ago. Now this San Pedro boutique is nailing it with extra services, including waxing, and is willingly tak-

ELEGANT: And great fun for a wedding party

ing more professionals on board his fabulous team. They will join Paul and the ever-friendly Ivana and Rachel, who make it their mission to have you feeling fabulous when you walk out of the door. You can be guaranteed the perfect start to your wedding in the hands of Paul and his team, whose business motto rings true: 'Arrive as a customer, leave as a friend. For more information contact us on +34 673 12 59 67, info@paulfosternails.com or visit us at www.paulfosternails.com

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olivepressnews +TheolivepressEs Housing crisis BE ‘APPY! SPAIN has the fourth largest number of empty homes in the world. A total of 3,443,365 residential properties are sitting unoccupied in the country, equivalent to our app now and stock. 13.66%Download of the total housing Only Malta, Greece andSpanish Mexico begin enjoying the best have more empty houses, acnews on the go. cording to a study by non-governmental global group Organización para la Cooperación y el Desarrollo Económicos. Colder countries were found to have a lower rate of empty homes, with only 1% of houses vacant in Switzerland and Sweden.

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WORK has begun on a million-euro project to pedestrianise the historic centre of San Pedro de Alcantara. The project, the most ambitious building work in the town since the construction of the main boulevard, is set to last 10 months. The work has been awarded to Obras Generales del Norte, and will be paid for by Malaga province. The budget for the project is €1,090,566.

AN eastern European oligarch suspected of laundering money through property in Spain has been detained on a European arrest warrant. It comes after a Vienna court granted a request to extradite Dmitry Firtash - one of Ukraine’s richest and most powerful men - to the US to

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our bi-monthly Property magazine out this month

Special report by Iona Napier

BOSSES: Cox and Wells

IN COME THE BIG BUCKS! A HUGE US property fund is splashing €45 million on three new Costa del Sol developments. The American bosses behind Real Capital Solutions have snapped up sizeable plots in Estepona, Mijas and Benahavis and continue to look at further opportunities along the coast. The company, based in Marbella since 2013, already has five other developments, including The Retreat, in Elviria.

“We have spent around €86 million here so far and have a fund of €100 million to spend,” explained Managing Partner Peter Wells, based in Colorado. “We are one of the largest developers on the Costa del Sol and our emphasis is on distressed properties.” He added: “Also we do things transparently and always try and deliver on price and quality.” The company - which made hundreds of millions buying and selling distressed properties in the US - has 16 staff working out of its office at Centro Plaza. Local boss Taylor Cox, added: “The coast is really starting to come alive and it’s a pleasure to live in such a beautiful part of the world.”

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Booming July predicted following ‘pause’ in run-up to EU referendum

ESTATE agents in Spain and Gibraltar are lining themselves up for the busiest July on record. It comes as some British buyers put purchases on hold due to the forthcoming EU referendum on June 23. Most agents the Olive Press spoke to confirmed they had various sales currently ‘paused’ awaiting the result, despite the British market remaining strong. The majority believe that the expected result - to stay in Europe - will lead to the pound strengthening with a red hot summer of sales to follow. Ben Bateman, at Holmes Sotogrande, described the referendum lead up as a ‘pause for thought for British buyers’ due to concerns over the weak pound. “After a remain vote however, we expect to see a strong finish to the year - and a sudden wave of bids from British buyers,” he told the Olive Press. One agent in Gibraltar has gone one step further actually employing extra staff for July. Savills director Sammy Cruz-Armstrong said: “Everything is on hold due to Brexit, but I am convinced we will stay in Europe and am taking on extra staff in July to deal with the expected deluge of business.” Benahavis agent Scott Marshall of Proper-

Remain tieSpain, meanwhile, described the pause as ‘very psychological’. He said: “It’s a combination of the uncertainty of the vote and the exchange rate right now.” While many agents have a couple of sales currently on hold, some have seen more. “We have up to ten sales currently on hold until after the referendum,” said Victor Witkowski, boss of Castles, in Manilva. “Buyers are not necessarily pulling out, but they are biding their time to see what happens.” Fellow Manilva agent, Shani Hamilton, also confirmed a slowdown, but added: “We are predicting a huge influx of business as soon as a decision is made.”

Where is Gillian buying?

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Deals

Spanish property sales by nationality and quarter

www.spanishpropertyinsight.com Source: Registradores Q1 2013 Q2 2013 Q3 2013 Q4 2013 Q1 2014 Q2 2014 Q3 2014 Q4 2014 Q1 2015 Q2 2015 Q3 2015 Q4 2015 Q1 2016

Either way, official statistics out this month confirm the British market remains strong and tens of thousands continue to look for their dream home. Respected analyst Mark Stucklin insists that foreign demand for Spanish property was up 16% in the first quarter with Brits the biggest group of foreign buyers at 22% of the market share. “The British still dominate the foreign market for property and there is no evidence of a noticeable decline in demand as yet,” he said. And certainly not everyone is suffering. One agent, Graham Govier of Inland Andalucia has seen ‘no negative impact’ at all during the referendum lead-up. “In fact it is the opposite. Prices are extremely cheap right now and we are selling two times as many properties as we were last year,” he said. He added: “My salesman Paul - already a bit of a local celebrity - has just completed his seventh consecutive sale and people are buying because they can see that the incredible deals won’t wait around for them forever,” he added. Paul made headlines in the Olive Press last year when he sold an impressive nine properties in a row.

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US and Spain demand property fraudster be extradited to stand trial

face bribery charges. Spain was also granted a European arrest warrant and Firtash was picked up by Aus-

Flood control A €1.5 million project to prevent coastal flooding has been launched in Almunecar. The works, funded by the Costa Tropical’s association of town halls, are set to take nine months. The first phase is a pipeline which will drain rainwater into the Rio Verde. Works will then review supply and sanitation networks, as well as roads in the area. Mayor Trinidad Herrera (right) said that the project was ‘complex’ because of the amount of work needed, but that she was ‘very satisfied’ that it had finally begun.

trian police shortly after. The court will now have to decide between the US and Spanish requests. Firtash is thought to have served as a leader of a money laundering ring in Catalonia, where he is suspected of laundering at least €10 million through property deals as well as restaurant businesses. He is said to have reacted with ‘silent horror’ as the Austrian court, filled with his family and associates, read out its ruling. The developments are a dramatic setback for Firtash, whose business and political relationships stretch from the top echelons of Russia and Ukraine to close associates of US President Donald Trump. He had pursued property dealings with Trump’s previous campaign manager Paul Manafort.

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A recent ruling by Spain’s Constitutional Court could herald the beginning of the end for municipal capital gains taxes levied despite a loss on the sale

No more capital gains on losses

n February 2017, a decision by Spain's Constitutional Court about a local law that regulates municipal capital gains tax (plusvalía municipal) looks set to bring about a change in fiscal rules nationwide. It could also open the floodgates to thousands of claims to reimburse taxes paid in the past four years. The case, brought against regulations in force in the province of Gipuzkoa in the Basque Country, concerns the obligation for vendors of urban land to pay municipal capital gains tax even when they have incurred a loss (minusvalía) in the period of ownership. Municipal capital gains tax is a form of direct taxation on the increase in value of urban land. It occurs whenever rights of ownership (via sale, inheritance, donation or exchange) are transferred from one party to another. But, unlike other taxes levied in Spain whenever property is sold, municipal capital gains tax is based on theory instead of reality. The taxable base is calculated taking into account the rateable value of the land, and of any property that stands on it, and the time it has been owned. The basic premise is that the longer land is owned, the more it is worth and, hence, the bigger a bill for municipal capital gains tax a seller will have to pay when the property changes hands. The catch is that rateable values are determined by the town council's own tables of theoretical values, which, as a rule, increase year by year, rather than reflecting real-world rises and falls in the marketplace. Residential property prices across Spain have

dropped by as much as 40% since 2008, but town councils have continued to calculate annual increases in the value of land (and homes built on it) to their benefit. The Constitutional Court ruled that requiring sellers to pay tax when they have not made a profit in respect of the land is contrary to Article 31 of the Spanish constitution. As a result, the authorities cannot levy taxes that rely on fictional calculations of profit, only those that result from a real or potential benefit being accrued. Why this matters to Spanish property owners who have sold in the last four years (the maximum period fiscal liabilities apply) or who intend to sell in the future is that the Gipuzkoan legislation is identical to Articles 104 and 107 of the national law regulating local tax administration, meaning that, logically, the same principle should apply across the country. For the moment, nothing has changed in the rest of Spain, but if the law is modified, if you have paid municipal capital gains tax in the last four years on a loss-making sale, you may be able to demand that the amount paid is refunded by your local town council. If you don't want to wait and would prefer to take the town council to court, you should be aware that a case normally takes up to 18 months. Taxpayers may be best advised to only pursue complaints in the courts if their claim is for the return of a reasonable sum paid in municipal capital gains tax, although the authorities would likely also be liable for costs if the case is successful. So, it seems that justice will prevail in Spain after all, but only for the very patient.

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‘Ruined for 50 years’ +TheolivepressEs

BE ‘APPY!

A LEADING Spanish economist has claimed his country is ‘ruined for 50 years’. Roberto Centeno, who was an advisor to US president Donald Trump’s election team on hispanic issues, says Spain has borrowed €603 our app now and billionDownload that it ‘cannot conceivably pay back’. begin enjoying the best Spanish In a blog post he said: “Spain is moving steadily towards the suspension of payments which news on the go. is the result of out of control public waste, financed with the largest debt bubble in our history, supported by the European Central Bank with its crazy policy of zero interest rate expan-

Trump associate gives stark warning for Spanish economy sion and without any supervision. “It will lead to the ruin of several generations of Spaniards over the next 50 years.” He went on to describe Spain’s production model as ‘third world’. “We have a third world production model of

Life on the moon The Olive Press

MALAGA scientists are hoping to grow seeds on the moon. TOP for Spain!Malaguenos have A team of news three inyoung reached the final of a science competition called Lab2Moon. Competitors were tasked with creating something that could accelerate interplanetary human evolution in a sustainable way. The only Spanish finalists, the Malaga trio designed a model to study seed growth on the moon. The winning submission will be sent to the moon in January 2018 with TeamIndus, a Google-funded Indian company.

Jobs boost MARBELLA Town Hall has opened up 500 new job opportunities in a bid to cut unemployment. However, the jobs will only be temporary posts over the next few years. Locals were invited to put their names on a register of candidates, from which the town hall will draw temporary employees as and when it needs them. The majority of jobs involve cleaning, gardening and maintenance work. Some 10% of the posts will be reserved for applicants with a disability.

Staycation BRITS are being put off holidays in Spain by the pound’s drop in value. More than 40% of Britons could change their holiday plans because of the post-Brexit devaluation, according to data from travel insurer Columbus Direct. Holidaymakers converting £500 to euro will get £65 less than they would have done last year. Because of this, up to eight million holidaymakers will opt for a ‘staycation’ rather than holidaying abroad. Spain and the Eurozone is losing popularity generally as a destination, as Britons believe they can get more value for their money in other countries such as Japan, Malaysia and Mexico.

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speculators and waiters, with a labour market where the majority of jobs created are temporary and with remunerations of around 600 euros, the largest wage decline in living memory. “And all this was completed with a broken pension system and an insolvent financial system.” The rant comes after Spain saw 13 consecutive quarters of growth in February, which was much stronger than that of its neighbours. The economy has also defied expectations after GDP growth for 2016 reached 3.2%, the same as in 2015.

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NEWS IN BRIEF Locked up CORDOBA-BASED businessman Rafael Gomez has been sentenced to five years in prison and a €112 million fine for fraud.

Classy cava THE Cava Regulatory Council is set to establish a new category of single-vineyard cava in order to improve the Spanish wine’s reputation as an upmarket tipple, capable of rivalling champagne.

Giving back THE Kasawi barber shop in Benalmadena has pledged to ‘give something back’ by offering free haircuts on Wednesdays to those who cannot afford their services.

Workplace woes THIRTY per cent of male business owners in Andalucia still prefer to hire a man over a woman. The Instituto Andaluz de la Mujer study also revealed that 43% still believed there was a place for gendered job roles.

BUSINESS

goods Flying train

We’re stopping! WOMEN across Spain are planning to strike on International Women’s Day in protest against gender inequality in the workplace. Strikes have been a part of the commemorative day on March 8 before, but are set to be bigger than ever this year. A Twitter hashtag, #NosotrasParamos (we’re stopping), has been created to organise and promote the strikes. The Feminist Movement of Madrid has called on Spanish women to stop working between 12pm and 12.30pm on March 8, and to take to the streets in protests at 7pm. It comes after a recent report showed that Spanish women earn 23.25% less than their male counterparts.

March 1st - March 14th 2017 March 1st - March 14th 2017

ALMERIA has the highest proportion of ‘black money’ in its economy in the country. For the last five years the sunbaked province has been at the top of the underground economy rankings, the Ministry of Finance revealed. Some 32% of the economy in Almeria is based on undeclared or illegal financial transactions. The GDP of the province is about €13,000 million, meaning that the black market in Almeria represents over €4 million per year. The industries which see the most illegal trading are agriculture, construction and hospitality. TAX DODGERS: In Almeria

Poverty panic THE high rate of poverty across Spain has set alarm bells ringing in the EU. Levels of poverty, inequality and social exclusion are ‘among the highest in the EU’, according to the European Commission’s Spain 2017 Report. “The gap between the wealthiest 20% and the poorest 20% is one of the biggest in the Union, and it continues to rise” reads

Spain slammed for its inequality levels and work contracts the report, published last week. At 31.5%, Andalucia has the second-highest rate of unemployment in Europe, according to Eurostat figures. The EC report praises the progress made in reducing jobless queues in Spain:

2016 saw an almost 10% drop in unemployment across the country. However, it also highlights the problem of temporary employment, saying that 13.1% of Spanish employees are at risk of falling into poverty. The influential Union UGT

has recently complained that the majority of jobs found by the unemployed are under ‘precarious working conditions’, with just 4% of contracts both long-term and full-time. The EC report also highlighted the fact that 27% of workers in Spain are on temporary contracts - the second-highest percentage in the EU, outdone only by Greece.

A ‘flying train’ that can travel at 1000km/h has been designed by students in Valencia. The group of budding inventors reached the final of the Hyperloop Pod high-speed transport competition, set up by US billionaire businessman Elon Musk. Five students from the University of Valencia (UPV) have been working on the prototype for over a year, and have now been joined in the project by 25 other students. The design is a pod two metres long and 1.5 metres high, which can travel through a near-vacuum tube faster than an aeroplane. They will present the model at the final Hyperloop trials this summer in Los Angeles.

Foreign fuels SPAIN imports nearly all of its fossil fuel from abroad, a report has shown. The European statistics agency Eurostat has revealed that dependency on imports has risen by 17 percentage points in 25 years. Fossil fuel imports shot from 81% in 1990 to 98% in 2015. This places Spain as one of the most import-dependent countries in the EU. Fossil fuels are the principal source of energy in Spain, representing 74% of the country’s usage.

Property

AGONY ANT

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES

Round-up of recent legal issues: The ‘plusvalia’ tax and others

A failure to understand the law could land you in the dock

panish Courts have passed a few rulings Two other rulings should make many think twice in the past couple of weeks that are cer- before posting on Facebook. tainly noteworthy. The Provincial Audience in Pontevedra (Galicia) Among the most important to have made has ordered a father to seek consent from his ex it into the headlines is the challenge to the incom- before uploading children’s photos on the site. prehensible plusvalia tax: A levy that is demanded And for its part, the Supreme Court has fined an by local authorities irrespective of whether prop- online newspaper €15,000 for publishing Faceerty owners make, or not, a profit when selling. book personal photos taken from a Facebook acAccording to a recent ruling by the count that was public. Spanish Constitutional Tribunal, it According to the court, the publicais unconstitutional to “tax not just a tion of photos in an open public acThe Supreme potential economic capacity but specount is for the purpose of sharing Court fined cifically, one that is fictitious, virtual or with third parties, but not for mass a newspaper inexistent.” media consumption. €15,000 The Constitutional Tribunal has orThe Civil Section of the Supreme dered the legal definition of the plusCourt has ordered lawyers to not exvalia tax to be altered to embody the ceed 25 pages in their appeal writs, constitution principle of ‘economic capacity’. and to use Times New Roman font size 12. This means that “only where a sale is conducted According to the magistrates, excessively long with profit can this tax be imposed on sellers.” writs are unnecessary and hinder the institutionAlready, several courts have ordered town halls al function of this tribunal. to reimburse this tax to property sellers who sold Failing to observe these norms can cause the well below the price that they bought at, a sce- claimant to lose his right to appeal. nario that thousands could benefit from.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.com

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Carpentry March 1st - March 14th

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Due to development of the company, we are opening a call centre in Benalmadena/Fuengirola and so exciting opportunities have arisen for 12 telesales agents and 2 Managers to join our Review Process Team THE PEOPLE – Ideally experienced in telesales, non experienced must be tenacious, highly driven and able to communicate in a professional manner. BENEFITS – €1000 euros basic pay per month for people with telesales experience, €750 per month without experience rising to €1000 after 1 month (Managers discussed at interview) Full training given – Genuine uncapped commission OTE of €2000 per month – €2500 for top performers Regular cash & early finish incentives – Early finish half day on Fridays – 36 hours per week

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level. This multi faceted, well-paid role will involve overseeing our planned expansion in 2017. Key skills: ●● Five years sales experience, preferably in media ●● Driving licence ●● Well presented ●● Good organization skills ●● References essential

Please send your CV to admin@theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es

Food, drink & travel March 1st - March 14th 2017

with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

IT´S No way Jose

CHEF: Jose Andres

Health avoiders YOUNG and healthy men will actively avoid foods that claim to be healthy, a study in Spain has found. Researchers from the Agrifood Research and Technology Centre of Aragon set up a mock supermarket in an unnamed Spanish town and recruited 121 demographically diverse people. They were each given €10 and asked to choose between a variety of real breakfast biscuits. Some were marked as ‘high in fibre’ or ‘reduced saturated fat’, while some had no health claims. The results found that the young men were least likely to buy the healthy product, even if it was cheaper in price.

Oil crisis The Olive Press Insider’s Guide

www.allaboutandalucia.com

AS British greengrocers continue to battle Spain’s fruit and veg shortage, experts have warned that things are about to get worse. The next horticultural hiatus in the food supply chain will be a global olive oil shortage. Last year’s hot and dry summer in Spain has led to the worst harvest in nearly 20 years. Italian production is also suffering, as an outbreak of Xylella fastidiosa bacteria has infected more than a million trees and decimated the crop. Brits may soon have to pay up to a third more for the Mediterranean’s liquid gold, the head of the UK’s best-selling olive oil brand, Filippo Berio UK, has warned.

AMERICA’S favourite Spanish chef, Jose Andres, has led a protest against Donald Trump. The 47-year-old Spanish immigrant to the USA closed five of his Washington D.C. restaurants as part of a national ‘Day Without Immigrants.’ The aim of the protest was to make a stand against Trump’s stance on immigration by dem-

onstrating how much of American business and daily life depends on immigrant workers. Andres is currently involved in a multi-million lawsuit with the new president. The chef pulled out of plans to open a restaurant inside the Trump Hotel in D.C. after Trump referred to Mexicans as ‘rapists’.

Taste the difference DELICIOUS: Campolucci´s vegan delights A VEGAN chef has challenged food lovers to take on a free healthy eating detox. Marbella’s Bettina Campolucci-Bordi, whose animal-free recipes turned her life around, has teamed up with UK health food chain Planet Organic to offer her seven-day challenge. Everyone can download the guide, which includes recipe suggestions and a meal plan-

Costa chef launches seven day vegan healthy eating challenge ner, to discover the benefits of eating ‘healing’ plant-based cuisine. It is the latest project for Campolucci, founder of the Heart Healing Retreat and Bettina’s Kitchen website, who managed to conceive against doc-

Priciest wine

There is a whole new way to discover Andalucia @allaboutandalucia @aboutandalucia @allaboutandalucia All about Andalucia

THE most expensive wine in Spain ‘by far’ will hit shelves in September. Drinks manufacturer Navarra’s new tipple, Vitral, will set you back €2,000. Only 688 bottles are being made using grapes from the 2013 vintage. The vino is made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Merlot grapes grown on the Bodega Otazu estate near Pamplona. At €2,000, Vital is more than double the price of Spain’s current most expensive labels, which include Pingus and Vega Sicilia Unico from Ribera del Duero.

DANGEROUS: Foreign imports

Short supply BRITISH supermarkets are set to shift focus to UK suppliers following Spain’s vegetable shortage. Morrisons has said that it will recruit 200 more UK food suppliers in a bid to reduce the ‘dangerous’ reliance on foreign imports. Just 52% of what Brits consume comes from British farmers, the supermarket added. This comes after a report from Leeds University urged Britain to ‘protect and incentivise’ local food production.

tors’ predictions after adopting a vegan diet. “I am truly passionate about the healing and wellness properties that come from a plantbased diet,” said Campolucci, 33. “The simple challenge is guaranteed to leave you feeling nourished and turn your plate into a rainbow of colour.” Campolucci, who has a background in the food industry, began to discover the benefits of healthy food after she started making it for her retreat clients. “Since I had such a love for food and ingredients it was only natural that I did all the cooking. “All the food was to be plantbased, refined sugar free and gluten free. “During that same time, I’d just been diagnosed with severe polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis, and was told that the likelihood of me ever having children was close to zero. “I’d previously been working long days and had entered a vicious cycle of very unhealthy living. “The fact that I was cooking detoxifying foods at retreats was a very welcome bonus and - lo and behold - seven months later I fell pregnant. “What had started as an experiment at the retreats became my life. It was the foundation of my career and the saviour of my longing for a family.” To download the challenge, go to www.7dayplantbasedchallenge. com

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

34 SERVING YOU www.theolivepress.es IN DUQUESA PORT SINCE 1999

TO PLACE ORDERS

Please email us: info@theenglishbutcher.com Or call us on tel: 952 891 313 Monday to Friday: 08:30-17:30 Saturday & Sunday: 08.30-14.00 Like our page on Facebook to see details of all our offers – The English Butcher

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rispy Cod C Restaurant & Takeaway OPEN EVERY DAY 12 noon - 10.30pm Paseo Maritimo (in front of Hotel Piramides)

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Food, drink & travel

March 1st - March 14th 2017 Mar 1st - Mar 14th

One helluva city for foodies ‘WHERE the hell is Huelva?’ is a question no tourist will ever ask again after 2017. To many, mystery still surrounds the cuisine of Spain’s most overlooked provincial capital. Tucked away in the coat tails of Spain’s south west, close to the Portuguese border, the small Onubense port

Chloe Glover susses out the secret ingredients that have seen the littleknown port city of Huelva crowned this year’s Spanish Capital of Gastronomy

city is often bypassed by visitors to Andalucia who are drawn to the more glitzy gastronomy of the Costa del

Sol and Sevilla. Now, thanks to a team of onthe-pulse judges from the Asociacion de Periodistas y

Escritores de Turismo, the spotlight has finally been shone on Huelva’s hidden foodie delights. The Olive Press explores the city’s top dishes to discover a tantalising clash of oceanto-table cuisine, complemented with produce harvested from the surrounding sierras.

Seafood Thrust up against the Atlantic Ocean, seafood is unsurprisingly one of Huelva’s most successful currencies. The sea offers up a buffet of maritime morsels for the city’s restaurants and tapas bars, which feature them heavily on their menus. Gambas blancas, caught in their breeding grounds only a few kilometres away, are among the city’s best-prized shellfish. As common in kioscos as in haute cuisine eateries, their knockout taste means they are often simply served with lemon. Skate and sardines from Ayamonte and Isla Cristina are served with a peppery garnish, while red snapper and swordfish are perfected a la parrilla. Garlic and pepper-infused cuttlefish and bean stew is another homely favourite, alongside mojama de atun, a fine cut of cured tuna which is produced in the province more than in any other part of Andalucia.

Meat & dairy restaurant | lunch and dinner

The pastoral land that flanks Huelva on three sides brings with it another haul of foodie treasures. So high is the quality of jamon de Huelva that it boasts its own Denominación de Origen mostly for producers in the Aracena area, particularly in Jabugo. Producers have taken full advantage of their proximity to the coast, choosing to cure it for four years in local sea salt to create a uniquely intense taste. Chorizos, morcones and other cured sausages count among other gourmet mainstays, as does fine goat meat from El Andévalo county.

Fruit & Veg Letterbox-red strawberries are one of Huelva’s other trademark delights. It is one of Europe’s biggest cultivators of the berry, along with persimmons, peaches and watermelons. And according to the city’s residents, it is impossible to enjoy the Fiestas Patronales de San

Alcohol

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No culinary tour would be complete without a brimming glass of the local brew to pair with it. Vermouths have a long history in the area, as do brandies, cognacs and schnapps produced in Huelva’s surrounding villages. More tempting drinks include cherry and chestnut liqueurs and aniseed spirits, while the famed ponche de Huelva drunk during the Las Colombinas festival is a peachy wine punch introduced by English settlers. The existence of a Denominación de Origen solely for Huelva nods to the high quality of its wines. A grand selection of reds, whites and sparkling tipples produced in 18 municipalities of the province are brought into the city for all to enjoy.

Sebastián each January without palm hearts served in citrusy stews by the city’s grandmas. Habas enzapatás (broad beans with mint, lemon and salt), garbanzos con gurumelos (chickpeas with dried mushrooms) and estofado de alcachofas (stewed artichokes) are other dishes sure to please the vegetarian or vegan traveller.

Confectionary Piñonates (sugared bread with pine nuts), pestiños (deep-fried dough), polvorones (shortbreads) - the list of Huelva’s sweet treats is unending, thanks to the pride with which Onubenses pass down their family recipes. Other sweet favourites can be found on every corner, such as tortas de manteca (butter cakes) , doughnutlike rosas fritas and cortadillos de cidra (crumbly cider soaked slices).

Why I fear I will go out with a whimper rather than a bang

Columnists

www.theolivepress.es

s I hurtle towards my 50s like an out of control bobsleigh on the Cresta Run – less than a year to go now – I've been reflecting on my own mortality. When you have lived the kind of lifestyle that I have, which has included fast cars, late night escapades (and that's putting it mildly) and a succession of pissed off bartenders and bouncers, it's a wonder that I made it past 27 to be honest. So I was imagining what my last words would be. I was hoping that they would be something along the lines of “it

35 March 1st - March 14th 2017

Famous last words

is a far, far better thing that I do than I have ever done,” or something equally heroic. But a recent close shave with the Grim Reaper revealed that my ultimate utterances will probably be something

much more mundane. I was trundling back to the casita in the Tank – my ancient 4x4 – last week just after dark. As I rounded a bend in the road, the biggest, baddest

Freakies de Fuengirola In other news, another Valentine’s Day came and went and, beautiful handmade cards from my youngest Goddaughter aside, my letterbox remained untroubled. One of my friends, however, revealed that that they had been on a local dating app and was contemplating a date. “A local dating app?”, I asked. “What was it called? Contactos de Coin?”

This lead to a frenzied discussion of what other local dating apps there might be out there. I am now on the lookout for ‘Intimos de Istan’ or ‘Amorosos de Alhaurin’. I’ll decline any offers from ‘Maris de Marbella’ or ‘Tranies de Torremolinos. And I am definitely not responding to ‘Freakies de Fuengirola’ or ‘Hornies de Jerez!’

Spain

boar I have ever seen broke cover from the campo and shot across the road right in front of me. I ran over and killed a small boar on the same road a few years ago, but this was a much bigger beast, with an impressive set of tusks that glinted in the headlights! “Wooooooaaaaaaaah”, I shouted, as I yanked on the steering wheel and hit the brakes, sailing past the boar with inches to spare. Had I hit him, it would have done serious damage to both him, the Tank and possibly even myself. There was no time for a few noble words, just a high pitched shriek. My passenger's final words, however, were even better. “Piggy!!!” she yelled, as the jurassic boar hot tailed it back into the undergrowth. Perhaps I should work on a few, pre-prepared last words for next time. “Well, that's a bit of a boar”, delivered in my best Austin Powers voice, should do the trick.

Do as I say and not as I do The trials and tribulations of sticking to New Year resolutions

t doesn't matter how much they dress February up in pink and red bows, and stamp love hearts all over it, it's not fooling anyone: It really is the lousiest month of the year on the Costa del Sol.   Especially if you're a freelance writer. News is slow, events are scarce, the weather is frightful and clients are all recovering from holiday overspending and awaiting tourist season to bounce back, so getting paid is like drawing blood from a stone. I began the year with the best of intentions, determined to put the wreckage of December's floods behind me, and leapt into January with renewed zeal, embarking upon a mammoth list of New Year’s resolutions with dogged resolve. I hit the ground running and charged through the month picking up a personal trainer, a string of new clients, an accountant, football and Jiu-Jitsu lessons for my Monkey, a web builder and a plethora of new routines, rules and resolutions. By February though, enthusiasm on all fronts was waning. Between the harrowing ordeal of Spanish paperwork and bureaucracy, and the frustration of dealing with ‘mañana syndrome’, I was ready to concede defeat and throw in the towel on my list of resolutions, when an old friend approached me for a favour. A friend of hers, she told me, had a son, a recent English graduate, who was in search of an internship that would gain him a little insight into the ‘glamorous and exciting’ life as a freelance writer and journalist in Marbella... and she had thought of me. ‘Me?’ I laughed as I surveyed 'the office'. There were paperwork and notebooks sprawled about my bed, coffee cups

Marbella diaries

By Natalie Rose Kern

on every surface, one cat sashaying over the keyboard of my laptop, the other chewing on a power cable, the dog snoring loudly on my feet and the electronic beeping of the Monkey's Minecraft game echoing around the room - and I envisaged a poor, unsuspecting graduate thrown into the melée.

Before I had time to describe the chaos, the noise, and the animals, it was agreed that he would shadow me and find out for himself how ‘glamorous’ freelance writer life is. I met the intern in a café in Marbella – acknowledging that the commotion of ‘bed office’ in full swing would be terrifying enough to scare him away from a writing career forever. He sat, fresh-faced and wide-eyed, clutching a notepad and eager to learn whatever wisdom I had to impart. ‘Firstly, do as I say, not as I do,’ I began, before embarking on a list of the

Posh Pets

March 1st - March 14th 2017

hazards, drawbacks, triumphs of a life of freelance writing. "Number one," I said firmly, "Deadlines: these are what you live for. I cannot stress this enough. Always get ahead. I continued, "Two. Write. All the time. Use every experience as inspiration for material." He scribbled furiously as I continued the list and then commenced his first task: My email inbox. "You have 537 unread emails," he gasped, and I smiled in an attempt to hide my embarrassment. "Begin with the most recent, and we'll work backwards," I instructed, burying my head in research for this afternoon's interview. "Umm... the first is from the Olive Press." He looked up at me with anticipation; "Your column is due... at midday today. Shall I send that now?" I paused for a moment and sipped my coffee without raising my eyes from the cup "Yes," I finally replied. "Just as soon I've written it." He was quiet for a moment and then began hesitantly, "But I thought you said..." "Deadlines, yes. Always get ahead!" I smiled, powering up the laptop and scanning my brain for whatever inspiration this month had offered me in the shape of material for a column, "Do as I say, not as I do and you'll be fine!" I finally smiled at him over the computer and he grinned at me with great amusement before tackling my entire inbox. And with that, my new assistant was born, resolutions were resumed and, if I finish this now, deadlines were met! The intern may well have salvaged February!

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Health

www.theolivepress.es

Happy and healthy EXPATS in Spain have the fourth-best quality of life in the world. A new survey from Expat Insider puts Spain in the top five of 191 countries, after Taiwan, Austria and Japan. The survey was based on a number of questions relating to health and wellbeing, personal happiness, leisure, transport, safety and security. Spain ranked 10th in the subcategory of health and wellbeing. More than 14,000 people took part in the survey, one of the biggest of its kind in the world.

March 1st - March 14th 2017 March 1st - March 14th 2017

FIGHT For the brave

LIONEL Messi is bidding to raise €60 million for a new child cancer research centre in Barcelona. The Barca soccer star has launched a campaign called ‘para los valientes’ (‘for the brave’) to raise money for the treatment centre at the Sant Joan de Deu hospital. It will be the largest facility of its kind in

Spanish pensioner produces healthy pair of twins

Cancer block

A 64-year-old woman has gave birth to twins in Spain. The unnamed OAP has now become the country’s second oldest mother after a successful Caesarian section at the Recoletas Hospital in Burgos. The boy and girl are in a ‘perfect state of health’, weighing 5lbs 3oz and 4lbs 8oz respectively.

NO young Brits will die of skin cancer by 2050. According to experts, almost all deaths from the disease will be among the over-70s, many of whom suffered skin damage while holidaying in foreign sunspots like Spain during the 1970s and 1980s. Campaigns like Slip Slop Slap have made younger generations more aware of the risks of sun damage, while new treatments will likely prevent thousands of fatalities in the future.

The pensioner fell pregnant following successful IVF treatment in the US. But the birth will likely be met with controversy after it was revealed that the woman, said to be from Palacios de la Sierra, had her last child taken away from her. According to El Mundo, the mother had a daughter via

Europe, and third-largest in the world. The building and necessary equipment will cost €30 million apiece. The FC Barcelona Foundation and IESE business school will also support the campaign. A launch event at the camp Nou stadium raised an initial €3 million.

MESSI: Fundraiser

Miracle birth

IVF success

OAP MUM: 64-year-old second oldest in Spain

God on the brain

the same method six years ago, but social services took her away after detecting problems related to a lack of schooling and personal hygiene. The young girl is now believed to be living with relatives after being removed in 2014. A hospital spokesman said of today’s birth: “The mother and her twins, a boy and a girl, will remain in the hospital for four or five days which is normal after a caesarian. “There were no problems. Everything went according to plan.”

A BRAIN tumour caused a woman to become hyper-religious. Friends became concerned when the 60-year-old from Murcia believed she had been in contact with the Virgin Mary and began spending significant portions of her day reciting religious texts. According to the researchers at the Hospital General Universitario Morales Meseguer in Murcia, she reported seeing, feeling and talking with the Virgin Mary and showed signs of sadness. Her family thought it may have been depression but doctors recommended she be taken to hospitals for tests to be sure. An MRI scan revealed an aggressive brain tumour that was too big to be removed. Her religious symptoms disappeared five weeks into chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but she died eight months after being diagnosed.

Pioneers

CHIP SUCCESS: For HIV

SPANISH scientists have developed a speedy new test that can detect the HIV virus within a week of infection. Created by Spain’s National Research Council (CSIC), the device detects the p24 antigen attached to the HIV virus at concentrations ‘100,000 times lower than in current techniques.’ The sensor is a rice grain-sized chip combining micromechanical silicon structures and gold nanoparticles. This, combined with its simplicity, could make it a ‘great choice for use in developing countries’ hardest-hit by the scourge of HIV. Early detection is crucial to stop an infected person unknowingly passing the virus on to other people through sex.

How to look great in glasses There is a perfect pair of specs for everyone

n the 27th of February, Kylie Minogue launched her first ever eyewear collection exclusively at Specsavers, which combine elegance and edginess, reflecting Kylie’s own personal sense of style. We wanted to mark this launch with answering some questions on how you can look amazing in glasses too. Q. What things should I consider when choosing a pair of glasses? A. Consider your face shape, colouring and style. Different style glasses will suit different face shapes and by choosing colours that match your hair colour and skin type, you can find the glasses which complement you perfectly. Think of your glasses as an extension of your wardrobe and an accessory to dress your face! This way you will complement your fashion sense with your glasses choice and set off your look perfectly. Q. What colour frames would work with blonde hair and fair skin? A. Try lightweight styles with delicate colour effects. Experiment with colours that add warmth to your skin tone. Avoid dark, heavy styles, cold

colours such as blues and greens, and lightcoloured metals. Q How can I tell if glasses are the right size for me? A. Glasses come in different sizes just like clothes and Kylie’s range includes several styles in petite sizes. Try out our Digital Precision Eyecare to ensure a perfect fit. This is a cutting edge new way of selecting and fitting customers’ glasses, using imaging software on tablet devices. This is very clever kit and gets customers much more involved with the frames and lens selection. Specsavers staff are fully trained to offer style advice on the latest trends and styles to suit all face shapes and help make glasses wearers look and feel great. Kylie’s range of 24 pairs of glasses and four prescription sunglasses are available as part of the two pairs with single vision lenses for €129 offer and are in all stores from February 27. To find your nearest store visit www.specsavers.es

YourHealth www.theolivepress.es

Advertising Feature

The Workplace Killer L

ung cancer sufferers continue to miss out on substantial financial help because its link with asbestos is being missed. Each year more than 43,000 people are diagnosed with lung cancer in the UK with the Health & Safety Executive estimaing that deadly asbestos dust causes only about 2,500 of that total. However The National Asbestos Helpline believes that the number is significantly higher and research has found a clear connection between high levels of asbestos dust exposure and the risk of lung cancer. It can sometimes be difficult to attribute lung cancer to asbestos and where the sufferer is a smoker it’s often assumed smoking is the cause.

THE UNUSUAL SUSPECT: Smoking is wrongly regarded as the only cause of lung cancer.

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March 1st - March 14th 2017

While smoking remains the largest cause of lung cancer, smokers who have been exposed to high amounts of asbestos dust are at a much greater risk. The two toxins, tobacco and asbestos, work together to multiply the danger.

Some smokers may find it’s their exposure to asbestos rather than tobacco that’s to blame for their lung cancer... family’s future. Government benefits and compensation are available to help victims of the deadly asbestos legacy.” said Mr Griffiths.

Carl Griffiths, a spokesperson for the National Asbestos Helpline, says: “We want health professionals and people to be aware that asbestos can also cause lung cancer, as well as smoking.” Patients need to consider whether they have ever been exposed to asbestos dust and tell their doctors about exposure.

Those who have worked as laggers, electricians, welders, dockworkers, builders, fitters and heating engineers, or in any factory where asbestos was widely used, are fairly likely to have come into contact with asbestos dust. Asbestos causes lung cancer when fibres are inhaled and become trapped in the lungs. Over time, these fibres accumulate and start to cause inflammation and damage to the lungs.

“Smokers should not assume tobacco is the cause of their lung cancer if they have been exposed to asbestos dust within the past 10 to 50 years. Medical staff also need to consider whether the patient has been exposed to asbestos dust.”

After many decades, the asbestos fibres cause irritation and cellular damage to the lung causing tumours.

To consider whether lung cancer may have been caused by asbestos it is necessary to explore the patient’s work history. For tradesmen, manual workers and engineers, asbestos exposure at work will have been inevitable during the past 60 years due to its widespread use in industry, construction and manufacturing.

The National Asbestos Helpline, which takes more than 3,000 calls a year from people affected by asbestos, is a service provided by Birchall Blackburn Law, experts in asbestos related civil claims. FREEPHONE 800 300 151 or visit nationalasbestos.co.uk for information.

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..or any place where Asbestos may be present?

Mr H, Engineer claimed £265,000 Mr B, Manager secured £168,000 Mr Q, Teacher received £215,000 Mrs P, Caretaker claimed £123,000 Mr C, Bricklayer secured £200,000 Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (no. 543429)

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ow do you know whether you have been exposed to asbestos? It is silent, it is invisible and it can be everywhere around you. But the effects can be life changing. Whether you are aware of this exposure or not the symptoms can take many years to present themselves. When they do you need to identify them and act quickly. This is where you can rely on the National Asbestos Helpline to help you get the compensation payout that is rightfully yours. It doesn’t matter whether the company you worked for is no longer trading – we have helped

clients recover over £30 million in compensation claims in the last 5 years.

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With over 20 years experience in Asbestos disease asbestos related claims, we are not only able to identify victims who APPLY TODAY for your are unaware they could make a FREE Guides! claim, but we will do everything in our power to achieve the right result. For more information and our TWO FREE GUIDES on how you can get help, counselling and compensation that is rightfully yours contact us immediately.

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Education

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March 1st - March 14th 2017 March 1st - March 14th 2017

Place to study

Caught cheating A GRANADA university professor has been punished after falsifying exam results. Fernando Penafiel Martinez has been banned from teaching for seven years by the Supreme Court. Martinez gave a student an ‘excellent’ grade, despite the fact that she did not turn up to the exam.

Brexit backlash THE number of EU students applying to UK universities has decreased by 7% since Brexit. The latest figures from UCAS show that UK applicants have also fallen, by 5%. It comes as industry bosses are becoming worried about the potential effects of Britain’s divorce from the union on higher education institutions. Leading academics have warned that a hard Brexit could be the ‘biggest disaster’ in higher education for decades, and that leaving the EU could cause irrevocable damage to the reputation of British universities. More worryingly, the hardest hit subject in terms of applications was nursing, which fell by 23%, raising concerns over an already struggling NHS experiencing shortages in the future.

This brought her average up high enough to pass other subjects and obtain a teaching degree. This is the first time a professor has been charged with this kind of crime. A colleague working in administration has also been slapped with a seven-year ban for mediating between the student and professor.

Mr. Angry Clip filmed by student showing teacher smashing a laptop goes viral

A TEACHER in Spain has become an internet sensation after a video of him smashing a laptop in front of his students went viral. In a fit of rage, the Valencia-based teacher smashes the computer to pieces over what he perceived as a ‘lack of respect’ being shown by the student. The teacher can be heard saying: “I am asking for a bit of effort. I am asking you for a bit of effort to learn this. We are taking 20 minutes to learn this, 20 f*****g minutes”.

It is assumed the school is fee-paying as the student, said to be called Dani Mateo, retorts: “I am paying for this, retard, am I not?” The infuriated teacher responds: “What? How dare you say retarded? Perhaps you should stop even trying and do b****r all Dani Mateo, I cannot afford it otherwise.” He then grabs a laptop and destroys it by smashing it against the desk several times. It is not known if the authorities have become involved. FURIOUS: Teacher loses it

SPAIN is the most popular destination for Erasmus students. The latest figures, from 2015, show that Spain received 42,537 students through the programme, followed by Germany with 32,871 and the UK with 30,183. France was the top sending country, with 39,985 of its students studying, training or volunteering abroad, followed by Germany (39,719) and Spain (36,842). Overall, some 290,000 students across the EU studied abroad.

Tip of the tongue SPANISH was the fourth most studied language at lower secondary level schools in the EU. Two million students aged on average between 12 to 15 chose to study Castilian, a total of 13.6% of the foreign language total. English, French and German were all more popular subjects in 2015, according to the latest data revealed by statistics body Eurostat. Altogether, 97.3% of those who studied at least one other language chose English, with 33.8% studying French.

Top of the class A DRAMA student has become first in her school to gain 100% in a prestigious acting exam. Talented Sienna McCormack, 11, is the first pupil in the 25 year history of Marbella Stage School to attain full marks in a London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) test. The achievement, which was praised by her acting teacher Jayne Melville, is the latest success for McCormack, who attends Aloha Academy. There, she recently wowed audiences with her leading performance in the school’s adaptation of Bugsy Malone.

STAR: Sienna McCormack

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ZARA billionaire Amancio Ortega will fund a year of study abroad for 73 young Andalucians. The chosen students will spend a year of their secondary school education in the United States or Canada. The scheme from the Amancio Ortega Foundation is aimed at improving English skills through linguistic immersion. 500 students from across the country were awarded bursaries, from a pool of 9,300 applicants. Malaga is the Andalucian province that will benefit most from the scheme, with 21 students chosen to participate.

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sport

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Comeback kids SPAIN’S rugby team are hoping to qualify for the 2019 world cup in Japan after climbing to 21st in the world rankings. The jump by two places comes after 16-6 win over Russia in the Rugby Europe Championships. Despite their loss to Romania in Bucharest a few days later, the Los Leones upheld their position on the table. If they qualify, it would end a ten-year hiatus from the world stage, having not played in the world cup since 1999. Spain will play a world cup qualifier against Georgia in Madrid on March 4.

Spain gain LIVERPOOL FC believe their recent training trip to sunny Andalucia will help them win matches back in the UK. The premiership giants spent four nights in the exclusive La Manga Golf Resort in Murcia in late February. The team have only won one league match this year against Tottenham Hotspur on February 11. Forward Sadio Mane said: “We had a good time in Spain but we also worked very hard, we trained together well and we also had a friendly game amongst ourselves. The weather wasn’t brilliant but a bit better than here. “It was just like a pre-season, the last few weeks have been quite difficult for obvious reasons, but we didn’t stop working during that period and Spain was important.”

March 1st - March 14th 2017

Lobby hell EXCLUSIVE David Bentley discusses THAT goal in the north London derby

nary vision and technique, but almost a decade later Bentley has told the Olive Press it was far from a fluke. “We had monitored the keeper being off his line before the game,” said Bentley.

Vision

EX-PREMIER League star David Bentley has revealed the secret behind his astonishing 45-yard goal in a 2008 north London derby. Bentley, who part owns Gibraltar’s La Sala restaurant, hit the outrageous lob over Arsenal keeper Manuel Almunia to give arch rivals Spurs a 1-0 lead. It was a goal of extraordi-

SHARED: Bentley reveals secret behind famed goal

Place to tee LA Manga Golf Resort has been added to a top European line-up. The five-star resort, based in Murcia, has joined the likes of the Royal Birkdale on the European Amateur Golf Tour (EAGT). Boasting three 18-hole golf courses, a nine-hole academy course and outstanding practice facilities, La Manga Club is a favourite with golfers across Europe. The four-day EAGT programme, from November 1720, costs €813 per person and includes four rounds of golf – two rounds on the resort’s North Course and two on its South Course, which has hosted five Spanish Opens.

39 39

“Clive Allen, who was a Spurs coach, told me he is off his line quite a lot. So the game plan was to lob him. “I didn’t realise how far off his line he was.” Bentley, who started his career at boyhood heroes Arsenal, suffered a yearlong knee injury, which kept him out of the game until 2011 before he retired in 2014. Following his move to Spain, Bentley received numerous offers from Premier League clubs, but couldn’t be tempted back into the game. “Once you have an injury like that, it’s difficult to get back into it,” said Bentley. “I had a great time playing, but I never planned to be that player that hung around for the money. My life has changed now, I have three children and I would find that distasteful. “I don’t like just going through the motions.”

FAMILY: Rafa and Toni

Bye Bye Tom RAFAEL NADAL will drop his uncle Toni at the end of the 2017 season. It comes after Toni Nadal, who has been in Rafa’s coaching box from the beginning of his career, announced that he did not want to continue in his role next year. Former world no.8 Peter Fleming said: “Rafa is a creature of habit - he needs structure - and I do think that he was caught off guard when Toni said 'I'm not doing this next year'. “I think Rafa probably took a little time to get accustomed to it but it's an opportunity for growth. “Carlos Moya, who grew up in Mallorca, and was Rafa's idol growing up as a kid is now in the team as his coach and Francisco Roig has been there for many years on a part-time basis. “It's not like Toni's job is really crucial to the team - I think it will be fine.''

WORLD Skiing first A WORLD skiing championships is coming to Granada for the first time. Hundreds of skiers and snowboarders from 40 nations will touch down in the Sierra Nevada Pradollano resort to compete in Los Campeonatos del Mundo de Freestyle Ski y Snowboard. Taking place from March 7 to 19, it will include dozens of contests in disciplines including skicross, halfpipe and big air and will be televised in 20 countries across the world.

ROLAND-GARROS | PARIS • • • • OlivePress-256x45mm.indd 1

According to a recent study by the University of Granada, the event will generate €16.1m for the region. “This season is one not like any other,” said Francisco Javier Fernández, Andalucia Junta councillor for tourism. “This is an important milestone for the resort, city and Granada province. “The championship will project the image of Andalucía as a destination for snow and headquarters of the biggest world snow sport events.”

MAY 28th- JUNE 11th, 2017

Emotion in excellent seats (Official tickets) Privileged access to hospitality area Three hotels options and private transfers Options of Tour to Champagne, city and concerts

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Rodrigo Drysdale (Sales Europe) (+351)

960 494 499

rodrigo@faberg.eu faberg.eu/rolandgarros 2/23/17 2:49 PM

Ghostbuster NEEDEd!

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Feeling old

FINAL WORDS

A SPANISH medic has designed a suit to simulate old age. It weighs 2 to 4 kilos and features glasses to impair vision, ear pieces to reduce hearing and a collar to limit head movement.

Fun and games THE largest Playmobil exhibition in Spain has gone on display in Marbella. The 130sq metre creation at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos contains 100,000 pieces and 14 light-hearted scenes.

Smooth move SOME 20,000 bottles of virgin olive oil were delivered to schools to help pupils celebrate Andalucia Day. The Junta donated the bottles so children could enjoy a traditional breakfast of toast and oil.

RESIDENTS of a town in Granada are looking for a ghostbuster for their ‘haunted’ council offices. It comes after a councillor in Vegas del Genil took a late night photo of a hallway, with the figure of a ghostly child in it.

Vol. 11 Issue 260 www.theolivepress.es March 1st - March 14th 2017

Sex svengali Expert hired to encourage Spaniards to have more kids

SPAIN has appointed a ‘sex tsar’ in a bid to reverse a dip in the country’s birth rate. It comes after the country saw more deaths than

Dolly mixture A BROTHEL in Spain is the first in Europe to offer sex with life-size dolls. Lumi Dolls, in Barcelona, offers clients a choice of four female dolls in their own private room with low lighting, candles and plasma TV screens. Each will be washed and disinfected after they are used. Described as ‘pleasurable, exciting and erotic,’ they cost around €5,000 and weighs 40kg. Clients are advised to still use a condom and pay upon leaving.

A name you can trust FRANCE - ITALY - PORTUGAL

births for the first time since the 1940s. The sex svengali Edelmira Barreria Diz has been enlisted by the government for the task. The senator in the Galician parliament - a demographic expert - must reverse a trend that has seen births fall 18% since 2008. Figures show that despite women on average wanting two or more children, those aged 18-49 had an average of 1.3, below the EU average of 1.58. It means Spain has one of the lowest birth-rates in the developed world, which is having an important impact on the welfare state. Rafael Puyol of the Madrid IE Business School be-

He took the photo to see what was there after having heard a 'strange noise' in the hallway, 'like someone was dragging files across the floor'. He also claims that the office was 'unusually cold'. The image sent the man into a 'state of panic' and he locked himself in his office and sent the photo to a WhatsApp group of colleagues. One of them came to take him home. In the following weeks council staff complained of 'inexplicable cold' in that corridor, despite the heating being turned on and fully functional. But the mayor is a sceptic. 'It's a collective psychosis' he said, 'how can I justify hiring a medium when I have residents without electricity?'

Out of love SEXPERT: Edelmira

lieves the problem stems from Spaniards being too tired after a full day at work due to long working hours. Spaniards also infamously stay up late. “This does not help with making a family. Then a child arrives and it is even worse,” he said.

EXPATS are anything but happy with their partners. Just 46% of 14,000 expats asked said they were ‘completely satisfied’ with their loved ones. The survey, from Expat Insider, found that over-50s are slightly more lucky in love, with 54% saying that they were 100% happy.

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