Olive Press Newspaper – Issue 262 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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I’m backing British expats ALBERT Rivera is giving his ‘total support’ to British migrants living in Spain. The Ciudadanos leader told the Olive Press he realised the importance of British expats and tourists on the costas. In the week Brexit is being invoked, he promised to back our rights to stay here. He later told a rally in Mijas he was going to be fighting corruption in Andalucia over the coming years and hoped to bring a train line to the coast. Backing Brits, Page 9

T is a practice that most property professionals had hoped was a thing of the past. But Olive Press Property can reveal that tionable practice of charging buyers the ethically quesrearing its head again on the Costa del as well as sellers is Sol. According to sources, at least two agents in the Marbella area have recently stung their buyers with bills of up to 5%. scene’, especially when you consider The so called ‘finder’s fees’ are in addition they already have very from taking com- high purchase taxes mission from the seller. which are often in “We as agents are paid by the sellers excess of 10%. “It’s disgusting,” said Terra Meridiana’s and we never nothing wrong with finder’s fees if you Adam Neale, “I have a fee to a buyer,” he said, “On the whole our industrycharge works ent beforehand, but I have heard from agree it with the cli- very well as it is, without the need to start charging such high certain agents are adding a 5% fee with several buyers that additional fees to buyers. We should be encouraging them to invest here!” “It’s bad ethics and gives agents on the no prior warning. Costa del Sol a bad Ben Bateman name.” of Holmes in Sotogrande added he was aware of the practice happening ‘in a few cases’. Mike Smith, Chairman of Marbella-based agreed that charging potential buyers First Choice Spain, “It is totally unethical and gives our business a bad reputasuch fees was ‘ob- tion for sharp practices,” he said.

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EXCLUSIVE: Agents unite as some ‘bad apples’ are slapping finders fees on buyers without warning

“I have no objection to agents operating but I do object when these so called with a finder’s fee, without declaring from the outset that buyers bill both sides He added: “When unscrupulous agentsthey will be doing so.” abuse the system by adding extra amounts, the whole industry suffers. “Beware of this sharp practise.” Legal expert Antonio Flores added that such practises can be deemed illegal. “It is not illegal to have your commission with the agreement of the vendor,” he built into the price, The problem is when an agent adds told the Olive Press. but does not tell the buyer or seller. a commission on top “This happens when the agent is the middle man and the parties are not in touch via their lawyers. This is actually a criminal offence.”

Granada’s new eco-village

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Andalucia’s highest towns

Have you been a victim? Email newsdesk@theolivepress.es

STRUGGLING TO SELL YOUR SPANISH

Expats take legal action on double glazing firm over thousands of ‘missing’ euros

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revealed that he was offered a €187 discount if he did a bank transfer immediately. “The man’s impossible to AN employee at a well deal with,” said Jones, 69. known glass and windows “We could never get him company has come clean again. after dozens of clients com“We have used another plained about unfinished company now. I just want work. my money back from Expat Rudi Kaiser, 58, reWare.” vealed that tens of thouAnother victim, Pete Jones, sands of euros of work has paid Ware half of a €9,000 not been completed by quote for bifold doors in his his former firm Andalucia as deposits on contracts kitchen in October. Glass & Steel. that were never completed, After hearing nothing for He admitted he ‘could not some up to €20,000.” five weeks, Jones was told take it anymore’ after re- Kaiser, who lived in London by Ware via text that he was ceiving a barrage of com- for 30 years, began work at having computer problems plaints and being cited in the Marbella-based compaand that work would start various court cases. ny four years ago working ‘imminently’. “I have been tarnished by as a salesman and on social “Of course, nothing hapthis company and I’m not media. pened,” said Jones. “Since happy about it,” the Ger- However, it soon became then I have been constantly man told the Olive Press apparent that boss Vincent trying to contact him withthis week. Ware, also 58, was not de- Jones, claims he never two patio doors in Estepona out luck. “We are talking about large livering what he promised. heard from Ware again af- last October. “I am sure, like others who Lastpaid MARBELLA of money, amounts One victim, expat Graham ter transferring €2,000 for Jones, from Cheltenham, LANDMARK FOR ditch have lost money, CANCER BATTLER plea for there is very little Becky that can be done. “I think exposing Homeless his practices will at least help people in plea the future.” A HOMELESS couple towards a deposit for a By Chloe Glover One client, hotelier have received much needflat, which they are in the Andy Chapell, was ed financial help thanks to plight last issue. process of looking for. forced to go to court Kennedy, who runs the “If it wasn’t for groups an Olive Press story. to demand the reHelp the Homeless Costa Leslie and Paul Dunt, who and people like Joel, we turn of €800 paid were left sleeping between del Sol Facebook page, wouldn’t be as close to for a safety fence, their car and a shed, have said the money had been finding anywhere,” said which never arbeen offered €500 by left over from a recent Paul. “We are very graterived. good samaritan Joel Ken- group fundraiser. ful for their generosity and Malaga Court ruled nedy who read about their Paul will put the money support.” DONOR: Joel EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore

A WORD IN YOUR SHELL LIKE: Olive Press reporter Joe Duggan interviews Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera

March 29th - April 11th 2017

NEWS

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MORE than 160,000 people have signed a petition on Change.org asking for a street in Marbella to be named after brave cancer sufferer Pablo Raez. The campaign has been set up in response to Raez's inspirational campaign to increase awareness, as well as the num-

March 15th - March 28th 2017

ber of bone marrow donations. Raez sadly lost his battle to leukaemia in February, but not before launching a campaign that went viral, its aim being to increase donors from 230,000 to one million. The petition has now been submitted to Marbella mayor José Bernal. MISSED: Pablo Raez

www.theolivepress.es March offer

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Long term expat couple need urgent help after being forced to live between their car and a hut

By Chloe Glover

A BRITISH couple have pleaded for help after eviction left them living between their car and a shed. Leslie and Paul Dunt are desperately hunting for somewhere to live for themselves and their 17 rescue dogs after being thrown out of their home in Coin. Paul, 56, who has a pacemaker, and Leslie, 63, who has a serious back problem, now fear for their health, as they struggle to survive on a small plot of land of a friend in Alora. “We can’t believe what’s happened,” said Leslie, who comes from east London.

Eviction

“We are really grateful we have this hut for now, but it has no running water, electricity, heating or gas. “I’m really worried what effect living in these conditions will have on Paul’s health and my own,” she continued. The couple, who moved to Spain 15 years ago, had fallen into financial difficulties last year when Paul had to stop working when he had a pacemaker fitted following a heart attack. As he was unable to continue running his mobile car valeting service they quickly fell behind in the rent. “The heart attack left him dependent on crutches to walk which meant he couldn’t work for 18 months,” added Leslie. After receiving a letter in January from the landlord telling them he was taking them to court, they were evicted on March 7. “It was horrible to find police and bailiffs banging on our door telling us

We’ve got Andalucia covered

A DETERMINED expat is devastated after being told she cannot have the drug she has been campaigning for. Doctors told Coin resident Becky Baker, who has cystic fibrosis, she is now too ill to have the Orkambi drug, despite being well enough when she first requested it a year ago. It is the latest blow for Becky, 32, who spoke to the Olive Press last issue (see left) after Malaga’s Carlos Haya hospital, where she NEWS Br-exodus - as they is a patient, said she was no longer fight to leave UK!eligible for for a lung transplant due to having too low a lung function. She had been campaigning to have American drug Orkambi legalised in Spain, which thins mucus, to help Coast clear those with the progressive lung condition. “For the hospital to only say now I could have had the drug were I betback on your ter when I began to campaign to get Due money long ago? is so gutting,” said Becky, originally from it so mortgage Spanish Somerset. FREE family has ramped up its plea to find an alternative HerRISK Call us today - 952 78 03 38 treatment. 647 20 20 29 - NO FEEout there has any other suggestions for us or NO WIN anyone “If with... In association would like to fundraise to enable more research into CF that would be great,” said Becky’s mum, Sarah.

Olive Press story helps homeless couple March 1st -

March 14th

2017

Drug plea

of EU citizens fibrosis believes THE numberUK actually inExpat with cystic leaving the last year. help save lives By Chloe Glover creased by 17% new pills could the amount In the year of Brexit,to the EU or is pleading for of people returning increased A BRAVE expat denied a vital moving elsewhere help after being 103,000 in one operation. from 85,000 to lung transport who has cystic year. Becky Baker, revealed that relies on an New figures also fibrosis, currently as UK breathe. Spaniards registering oxygen mask to from Coin, is fell by 2,000. a residents also The 32-year-old, readers to get has been Meanwhile, there asking Olive Press campaign in the number sharp increase the country folbehind a nationwide new US of Brits leaving June 23 result to legalise a pioneering lowing the shock drug called Orkambi. for somelast year. She is also searching the Office for able to help her The figures from one who may bemedication. show that National Statisticsthe UK rose find alternative live,” said Becky, emigration from “I just want to Spain with her in 2015 to now and before by 9%, from 297,000 who moved to lungs. from Burn- BRAVE: Becky Baker, cluding my newa chance that I 323,000 in 2016. 20 mum Sarah Spencer Málaga to push in Somerset “If there was treatment or a Fibrosis Quística ham-on-Sea more its legalisation. to could get in the UK I would go years ago. campaigning stay alive every for there is re“I’m fighting to life and am in “We’ve been for the past year transplant back but the weather I don’t get it legalised single day of my to repair for my lungs and expensive costing now if I’d WORK is underway constant pain. kilos (1.25 stone) and yes it’s patient per year…. ally bad wrecked by I would be here Malaga beaches “I’ve lost eight months alone, €120,000 peryou consider that think other last December’s floods. it stayed. in the last few pills a day and but when knows of any will be spent who are using have to take 50 fed at night as some people to take their oth- “If anyonethat may help I would A total of €4.1m sand and rehave to be tubemany calories as now don’t needor stay in hospital treatment them as I am on restoring of love to hear from at the mo- pairing the infrastructure er medication I’m burning so so high. stretching from feeling very down my heart rate is Spanish doc- it’s not bad.” coastal areas Axarquia. recently refused ment.” the Spanish doctors “At the moment, been who has a campaigning Manilva to a lung transplant, anything to help tors won’t do only keep me to give Becky her main hope Becky, called See Off CF Spain, Diggers have alreadystretch website which had been me. They will sand from one a fundraiser for hopes to launch cystic fibrosis moving to another in Estein of survival. stable. of beach which is legal I have amyloidosis Marina, research into more “But Orkambi, that has been “It’s because Becky. and at Casares a cures. Becky to pona were both badly hit well,” said the US, is a drug even if I had in touch with lung function by as “They said that too the con- To get how to help, go to www. whichfloods. proven to boost from of kidney transplant and would find out thinning mucus. it, as would lots dition would return organs, in- seeoffcfspain.com “I’d love to try know here.” other other people I up with charity damage my She has teamed

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MAKESHIFT: Leslie and Paul are living between a Ford Fiesta and a hut

are desperate and don’t know what to do.” Their good samaritan, a local Spanish landowner, jumped in to help after seeing a plea a friend of theirs had posted on Facebook. He quickly offered blankets and dog food and allowed them to live in the hut on his land. “But now we need someand permanent thing would be over the moon if anyone out there could help us. “We almost have enough to pay a deposit and would find enough money somehow. “We just need a little help to get us over this hump. It is incredible how quickly you can fall here.”

to leave. “Fortunately we were able to move our belongings to

our neighbours’ houses temporarily and live in our Ford Fiesta, but we

Anyone able to help can contact Leslie and Paul via newsdesk@ theolivepress.es

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CRIME

www.theolivepress.es

March 29th - April 11th 2017

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

Posh

on conman probs

AN alleged fraudster has been charged with four more counts of fraud in Gibraltar. Louise Marriott, 51, is accused of making untrue or misleading representations by offering ITEC-accredited beauty courses at the City International School of Beauty. In a magistrates court hearing on Tuesday, former reality TV star, and ex-Marbella Belle, Marriott was remanded in custody until April 18. The mother-of-three, a close friend of Lady Diana’s former lover James Hewitt, has already pleaded not guilty to six charges of fraud by false representation and one of making a false declaration. Marriott is accused of conning clients out of £15,500 (€18,130). Marriott was previously involved with a health business in Marbella, called Posh, alongside

Alleged fraudster Jan Herman Brinkman arrested with wife and father-in-law EXCLUSIVE By Joe Duggan

SUSPECTED fraudster Jan Herman Brinkman has been arrested in his native Holland following a major police investigation. Brinkman’s wife, Johanna Te Riet, 48, and father-in-law Jan Te Riet, 73, were also seized on suspicion of fraud and money laundering. The Marbella businessman, first exposed by the Olive Press last year, is accused of swindling 51 victims out of around €500,000 in a string of property scams. It is believed Brinkman, 47, who drove a Porsche Cayenne, left the Costa del Sol following our string of exclusives, which were followed up by Dutch newspapers and TV. Brinkman and his wife were arrested by Dutch cops while sleeping in a hotel in Holland a week ago. A Spanish judge has ordered Brinkman to repay €105,000 to Dutch expat Toon Van De Wiel after he was tricked into investing in a Marbella beach restau-

CAUGHT: Jan Brinkman and Johanna Te Riet rant. “The judge told them to pay my money back,” he told the Olive Press. “Normally this takes years but the judge believed all the evidence and even cited the articles

in the Olive Press.” He added: “He gave them a choice - pay back the money or get arrested for fraud.” Brinkman could now face an arrest warrant to return to Spain to face justice.

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The Heart of Zorro

March 29th - April 11th 2017

Bon Dia Barcelona!

ANTONIO Banderas has revealed he had a heart attack earlier this year. The 56-year-old told reporters at the Malaga Film Festival that it happened on January 26. “But it wasn't serious and hasn't caused any damage,” he insisted. The Malaga-born Zorro star had three stents put in his arteries but insisted the incident had not been ‘dramatic’ and he is now well enough to return to work. He accepted a lifetime achievement award for his years as an actor, producer and director.

IT is one of her favourite places to holiday. Now, true to form, Gwyneth Paltrow has landed for her regular annual sojourn to Spain. The Hollywood star started her trip in Barcelona and is believed to be heading south west towards Madrid and Extremadura, where she has friends. The 44-year-old actress shared a photo of the city of Barcelona with her Instagram fans, as well as one of her with her two daughters. “Good Morning Buenos Días Bon Dia Barcelona!,” she wrote. She recently posted a hotspot guide on Barcelona - one of her favourite cities - on her lifestyle website Goop. She worked as a nanny in the Extremadura town Talavera de la Reina as a teenager and frequently goes back to see the family.

Not gone Pete Tong Fatboy Slim also flying in for summer festival circuit

Checking in DANIELLA Westbrook is set to check into rehab on the Costa del Sol after revealing she miscarried last year. The former Eastenders star, 43, has vowed to beat her ‘demons’ at the Villa Paradiso Rehab, a private treatment centre based in Mijas. The former drug addict recently enjoyed an extended break in Marbella, where she is thought to be opening a clothes shop with a friend. She said to her fans on Instagram: “So I'm checking in to treatment again. The therapy TV show I did cost me a lot of heartache, painful childhood memories and trauma that the show didn't fix . “Put that with a total lie and sham of a marriage and a break up from the only man I ever loved and losing a baby last year... I think it's time I did this once and for all for myself my kids and my very small but close circle of friends.”

IT’S a genuine double dose of DJ’ing at its best. Two of the top British spinmasters are set to wow the crowds this summer. Fatboy Slim will be bringing his trademark beats to Gibraltar for the MTV Presents Gibraltar Calling festival. And in a double whammy for the Rock, legendary DJ Pete Tong will play this year’s Holifest Light and

SPIN MASTERS: Pete Tong and (inset) Fatboy Slim Colour festival. The world-class House DJ, who brought the dance

Double date CRISTIANO Ronaldo is to become a dad to twins despite dating another woman. The Real Madrid forward, 32, is understood to be having baby boys with a mystery surrogate woman living in the US. It is not known what Ronaldo’s 23-yearold Spanish girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez thinks of the news, which was shared by a source in his inner circle. The twins are set to be brought up at his £5million mansion on the outskirts of Madrid. The circumstances mirror those surrounding the birth of his existing son Cristiano Jr, 6, who was also born to surrogate mother.

style to the mainstream, will headline the festival on June 24. Tong has had his own club night at Ibiza superclub Pacha and presented his own Radio 1 DJ show, The Essential Selection. He was given an OBE in honour of his musical achievements in 2014. Fatboy Slim - one of the world’s most famous DJs - scored smash hits with Right Here, Right Now, Praise You, The Rockafeller Skank, and Gangster Tripping in the 90s. He is currently flying high in the charts with new single Where U Iz. Craig David, Steve Aoki, Bananarama and Clean Bandit have also been announced for the summer event.

Not over for Sharapova MARIA Sharapova has posed for the April issue of Vanity Fair Spain. The Russian tennis player, whose two-year ban for failing a doping test ends in April, posed for noted photographer Art Streiber. She has sparked heated debate in the tennis world after it was revealed she would be awarded several wildcards into some of the sport’s biggest tournaments. The Vanity Fair issue - in which she discusses her career comeback and love life has already landed on local news shelves.

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www.theolivepress.es News IN BRIEF

Facing issues THE United Nationalities of Marbella forum will be held from 9.30am on April 25th at Laude International College in San Pedro to discuss issues surrounding youth integration and concerns of the elderly. It’s a free forum with a networking event after for a small fee. Register online at http://rtvmarbellanow.com/ united-nationalities-marbella-summit-2017/.

Kiss me not YOUTUBE star, 24, who calls himself Wilson Alfonso has been accused of sexual assault after kissing unsuspecting women under false pretenses. After telling them to close their eyes for a magic trick he filmed himself planting a kiss on their lips and uploaded the footage to his channel, sparking outrage.

A taxing issue A TAX inspector accused of selling tax avoidance advice has been ordered to prison. Since then, seven people who were also arrested in connection with the incidents have been freed but are still under investigation.

Tributes pour in for tireless expat campaigner, who has died suddenly from cystic fibrosis By Chloe Glover

TRIBUTES have poured in for 'wonderful' cystic fibrosis campaigner who has tragically passed away. The family of expat Becky Baker, who had the lung condition, have been left 'overwhelmed' by the volume of tributes they have received. Becky, 32, from Coin, passed at the Carlos Haya Hospital in Malaga due to suspected kidney failure.

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March 29th - April 11th 2017

Tears for Becky As reported in the OP over recent issures, the British victim, who grew up in Spain, had been campaigning for the legalisation of a pioneering US drug called Orkambi. She also raised thousands of euros for research and provided support to many people also living with the condition

through her website See Off CF Spain. "We have been overwhelmed by the response we have received from people with cystic fibrosis that Becky became friends with," said Ken Spencer, who moved to Spain with Becky and her mum Sarah Spencer from Somerset 20

help my cancer battle! A NEW mum with rare inoperable cancer has launched a plea to help fund life-saving treatment. Alpujarras resident Colette Nolan, whose son Zebedee is 10-months-old, desperately needs to raise €100,000 to pay for innovative therapy at the ChemoThermia Oncology Centre in Turkey. Nolan, who moved to Orgiva with husband Tim to start a new life in 2015, believes it’s her only hope of survival after UK doctors said there was no more they could do. Nolan, who has aggressive breast cancer, received the diagnosis only four months after giving birth. “It’s devastating,” said Nolan, 34, who is currently staying at a hospice in Hastings, near to where her husband

Tim’s family live. “I developed a cyst on my breast but believed it was just due to being pregnant. “It was only because Zebedee was not feeding properly that doctors in Spain discovered the cancer. “I initially had surgery there but it didn’t go to plan so I’ve had to seek help in England. “I have had a round of chemotherapy but sadly it was unsuccessful.” She now hopes to fund a visit to the Istanbul centre, where a course includes low level chemotherapy with ‘science-based’ alternative treatments. She needs seven sets, which cost €10,000 each, something her family ‘can’t afford’. Visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ colettejoannolan

years ago. "We didn't realise how many people she supported by talking to them on an almost daily basis. "We are in the process of creating a memory book filled with all these lovely comments. "Becky was a one-off. She could illuminate a room and was a wonderful, vivacious girl who loved life and lived it to the full. "Her passing will have left a big hole in the hearts of many." Becky's family now hope to continue her campaigning legacy by setting up a trust fund which will expand on the fundraising she has already done. "We want to stage a European-wide campaign so we can badger governments to take more action on cystic fibrosis. "Her legacy will hopefully be to see a cure found so that others do not have to suffer in the future." www.seeoffcfspain.com Opinion Page 6

Seen through From Front Page

in favour of Chapell, 60, who waited months for the fence at his home in El Palmar, on the Costa de la Luz. “We pushed them for months to get the work done but could not get Vince on the phone, they were impossible,” recalls Chapell, from Guernsey. Since the October ruling that the money, plus legal costs, must be returned, he has heard nothing. “I have been in Spain for 30 years and I have never come across something like this, it’s incredible.” Philippe Mermoud meanwhile called in police after losing €5,606 for several glass panels in March last year, while another victim in Sotogrande, who must remain anonymous, has instigated court proceedings. According to Kaiser, there are ‘at least two more court cases’. “One of the victims is about to start a class action against Ware for fraudulent and insolvent trading,” he explained. “I just need to make people clear that I am no longer involved. I’ve washed my hands of him before I have a heart attack.” Despite numerous messages and calls, Ware was unreachable for comment.

If you have been a victim, email newsdesk@ theolivepress.es

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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 Point of no return BY the time many of you read this, Theresa May will have fired the gun that leads us out of the EU. The British Prime Minister has labelled it a ‘historic’ moment, and it surely is. History will certainly judge whether Brexit was a national act of folly. Despite this weekend’s pro-EU marches in London and Madrid, we are now in the final lap of a race most of us would rather not run. It’s not all doom and gloom, but as our feature in this week’s edition shows, millions of Spanish and British migrants are united in fear. These fellow migrants’ concerns may be different, but there are so many questions, and, as of yet, not one clear answer.

Campaign continues THE normally bright lights of the Costa del Sol have been dimmed with the passing of tireless cystic fibrosis campaigner Becky Baker. Taken away from her family at only 32, her untimely death reiterates the urgent need to do more to find a cure. From trying to pressure the Spanish government to legalise a promising new drug called Orkambi to raising money for pioneering research in Belfast, Becky was a campaigner until her last day. Now, even though she has gone, her legacy will live on through all that have been moved by her story and want to do more themselves to help turn her dreams into realities. We hope that our readers are among them.

Eyes and ears IT’S a classic Costa del Sol tale. It seems a week doesn’t go by without hearing of another group of expats being poorly treated by tradesmen, lawyers or bankers who fail to deliver what they promise. Unfortunately for Vincent Ware of Andalucia Glass & Steel, the Olive Press has long battled to protect expats and locals alike from such practices. He is just one of dozens we have exposed, and long may it continue. We are your eyes and ears as the only investigative newspaper in southern Spain.

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2012 - 2017

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feature

March 29th - April 11th 2017

United Brits in Spain

EXCLUSIVE: As Brexit looms, JOE DUGGAN examines the parallel concerns of expats in Spain and Spanish immigrants in the UK

LYN and Kath Emerton have lived on the Costa del Sol for 10 years. Since relocating from Luton, 67-year-old Kath has used Spain’s health system for an operation on her leg. But with no deal on health care currently secured between the British and Spanish governments post-Brexit, the couple are concerned for the future. “We are living in limbo,” said Glyn, 64. “Will we have our health care? Everybody we talk to is worried about that. Lots of the people we talk to retired here, and if they have to pay for health care it’s a problem. “We do not want to go back to England. We are British but we came here under a set of rules.” Although the British consulate have been ‘great’, says Glyn, even they have told him ‘we do not know the answers’. For thousands of British people in Spain, the lack of clear answers is adding to stress levels. Officially, some 300,000 Brits live in Spain, but with many not registered on the padron the real figure is thought to be much higher. According to the GIBRALTAR will hope- EU and usher in a ‘bold “Gibraltar is so small that Office for National Stafully benefit from the UK new chapter as a prosper- even a little bit of that tistics, around a third officially walking out of the ous, open and global na- trade with two billion peo(101,045) are 65 or EU this week. tion’. ple will go very far indeed.” over. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo agreed, telling the Last week, a delegation Anne Hernandez, coPicardo believes new trade Financial Times: “In the from the EU Commission founder of campaign deals with five key coun- next five to 10 years the visited Gibraltar to see group Brexpats in tries outside of Europe will UK is very likely to have how EU funds have benSpain is advising the help the enclave. trade deals with New Zea- efitted the Rock. British community It comes as Theresa May land, Australia, the US, Nicolas Gibert-Morin to ‘get themselves triggers Article 50 this Canada and, most impor- called on EU chiefs to visit 100% legal’ before week, describing it as ‘one tantly, with India.” the Rock. the divorce treaty is of the most important doc- He added: “We are hoping “Gibraltar and Gibraltarfinalised. uments in recent history’. to have access to a market ians are essentially pro“People should make May’s eight-page letter to of two billion people who European, Europhile and sure their residencia EU President Donald Tusk speak the same language it’s very sad to see they paper has written on will formally signal the and are subject to the might have to leave the it con caracter permanUK’s intention to exit the same law. EU,” he said. ente,” she said. “It must be a permanent one. They need to get on the padron ménez awarded the Nobel Prize in 1956. in their local town hall. That regisa month for those under 65. ters you as a resident citizen. Pensioners are also being hit by the post-Brexit The level of Spanish needed to pass (DELE A2), “Get your driving licence in order if you drop in sterling. The pound is now trading at requires candidates to relay ‘basic information need to. If you’ve been here two years you €1.15 against the euro, down from €1.30 on about themselves, and their families, shopping, places of interest, work.’ really need to get a Spanish one anyway.” June 22 last year. She added: “For some people it is now hitting And the triple-lock whereby pensions rise by Richard Appleyard has lived and worked with his home. But many are saying, ‘Well, nothing is goeither inflation, earnings growth or 2.5 per wife, Jean, in Spain for 30 years. ing to happen until 2019’. Well, for the Spanish cent could be wiped after UK chancellor Philip Fluent in Spanish and fully integrated, he says in the UK, it is already happening to them.” Hammond recently confirmed a review of state he is fully considering applying for Spanish citizenship this year if ‘things look like they are goWith some 11,000 Brits registered in Mijas and spending on pensioners. around 65,000 in Malaga, ‘an awful lot of lives With many British pensioners in countries out- ing bad’. are going to change,’ warned Hernandez. side the EU having their pen- “Obviously no one wants to give up their nationThe tones from the Spanish sions frozen, the UK may now ality, but we do not want to go back to Britain as government are at least enhave to strike post-Brexit deals we feel more at home here,” he said from his couraging. ‘We feel at home. to ensure pensions continue home in Madrid. Last week, Spanish EU secto rise in value for those living “The Spanish government are being very understanding, but it feels like we are being moved by retary Jorge Toledo, Madrid’s But it feels like we abroad. chief Brexit negotiator, told One route increasingly being forces beyond our control.” are being moved The Times: “We are broadly in taken up is to apply for Span- But whereas Spaniards living in the UK can apfavour of retaining a reciproby forces beyond ish citizenship, which currently ply for dual nationality after five years, British cal agreement on questions requires British people to re- expats in Spain have to wait 10 years and must our control’ renounce their British citizenship. like healthcare and freedom of nounce their UK citizenship. movement.” Official Spanish figures show a Guardian journalist Giles Tremlett is leading the Currently, healthcare can be spike in Spain’s British expat campaign to change this, but agrees with Heraccessed for free by UK pensioners in Spain, community taking the citizenship test. While 70 nandez that some key fears could have been resolved by now. with the cost reimbursed by Britain. But the took the test in the six months prior to June’s He said: “There is nothing bilateral or recipconcerns over health could have been resolved referendum, 423 have done so since. rocal about pensions. The UK government already, says Hernandez. A challenge even for can deal with that any time and it hasn’t. “There is a reciprocal, bilateral arrangement Spaniards, questions Which is pretty daft really. that Britain pays Spain x amount per year per include who is re“What I don’t think the Spanish pensioner for health care. That is not reliant on sponsible for calling know is what reciprocal rights the EU, it has nothing to do with the EU. They a general election should be included. can guarantee that. But they’re holding out to in Spain, what “But the key question for the use us as bargaining chips.” is the country’s Spanish government is what If no deal is struck to secure those rights, the highest mounrights do they think Spaniards in cost of insurance would be prohibitive for some. tain in Spain the UK should lose.” The Convenio Especial insurance scheme and why was costs €157 a month for those over 65 and €60 Juan Ramón Ji- CONCERNED: Richard and Jean

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Brexit bites for Spaniards in Britain as ‘nightmare’ residency process starts

OAN Pons Laplana has lived in Britain for 17 years. The 41-year-old Barcelona native works as an NHS nurse in Norwich. But despite having a British wife and three children born in the UK, Brexit has left him feeling ‘like a second-class citizen’. “I am conscious I am not as welcome here now,” he said. “In the last eight months, I have been verbally attacked on social media for my nationality and told to go home. “A nurse friend of mine in Glasgow was told by a patient recently, ‘I do not want you to care for me. I want someone British’. That did not happen before.” He added: “I am here because there is a chronic shortage of nurses. I love this country. But we are being treated like garbage by Theresa May.” Like Brits in Spain, the UK’s 3.2 million EU citizens are still no clearer about their rights once Britain leaves the single bloc. Many like Joan are long-term British taxpayers but all were denied a referendum vote, as were Britons living in Spain for over 15 years. Given how close the final result was - 17,410,742 Leave to 16,141,24 Remain - these lost votes could well have swung it the other way. Parliament’s refusal to maintain the rights of EU citizens when passing March’s Brexit deal has meant Spaniards living in the UK still have no safeguard. Many are younger workers who fled Spain’s savage economic recession which hit with the 2008 property crash. Spain’s Institute of National Statistics (INE) reports the number of Spaniards living in Britain increased from 57,770 in 2009 to 102,498 in 2016. Many, like 26-year-old Guildhall School of Music student Maria Jose Sole Avila, are now concerned about their right to remain in their adopted homeland. “I am always scared,” said the Almeria native. “You need to be here five years to get permanent residency, and I probably will have been here three by the end of the Brexit negotiations. “The government is treating us like criminals and using us as a

Olive Press can be read in its entirety on www.theolivepress.es And our site is updated daily with the latest news, March 29th - April 11th 2017 making it one of Spain’s most visited news websites.

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5 CONCERNED: Laplana (bottom) and protests (above) personal detail and nothing will assure me that gun to pressure the EU.” I will be successful, as criteria is changing every The sense that Britain is no longer such a wel- month,” said the nursery worker, originally from coming place has led many of her Spanish Murcia. friends to consider moving to another country. “Rumours within the Spanish community here Some key professions are being hit already. are that a year ago applications like this Since Brexit, there has been a 90% drop in were granted within weeks and now are the number of EU nurses registering to work in rejected for silly reasons.” Britain, according to the Nursing and Midwifery Recent government figures show Council (NMC). With the 20,000 nursing short- around 28% of applications age highlighted by the Royal College of Nursing, from EU workers have been the figures are worrying. rejected since the Brexit vote, For those already living in the UK, the process although a Home Office of applying to remain is also far from straight- spokesperson maintained forward. that ‘refusal rates have EU citizens who have lived in the UK for five not changed over the years or more must fill in an 85-page document last year’. to apply for permanent residency, a prerequisite Such stories are familfor gaining British citizenship. iar to Brighton-based The labyrinthine document, described by charity worker Luz VilLaplana as a ‘nightmare’, requires financial larrubia who runs the records, letters from employers and details of 3,000-member Faceeach time the person has left the UK since first book page, Espanoles entering the country. en Reino Unido - Sur“You need a solicitor to be able complete it prop- viving Brexit. erly or the chances of rejection are incredibly Having lived in the high,” said Laplana, a member of The 3 Million UK for 24 years, the protest group who spoke at last week’s huge Madrileno is also applyUnite for Europe rally in London. ing for permanent resiMadrid-based journalist and campaigner dency. Giles Tremlett has labelled the process ‘a “They want my phone bills disgrace’. from as far back as 2006, “I was at the House of Commons Brexit benefit records from 1998, Committee when the person who was all my payslips, letters from explaining it brought out this shrink- previous employers, although wrapped pile of paper that weighed one of mine has since died,” she five kilos, dropped it on the table said.“People are spending fortunes and said, ‘That’s half of what I’ve on lawyers.” got to show’. Despite the uncertainty, the number of Span“It seems to be deliberately ob- iards in the UK increased to 115,779 as of Janustructionist.” ary 1, 2017, up from 102,498 the year before, Another Spaniard living in London, according to INE. Susana Mañogil Campoy, is current- It is unclear how many arrived after June 23. But ly navigating the process of applying with the divorce clock running it would be astonfor her permanent residency card. ishing if those numbers increased by anywhere “I have to provide proof of every single near that amount come January 2018. year.

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ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 53.50% Same week last year: 60.55% Same week in 2006: 60.49%

Pollution peril RUBBISH thrown in rivers is slaughtering sea animals. The Asociacion Amigos del Mar Costa Tropical has condemned the practice in the area, which it says contributes to the deaths of untold numbers of species of sea birds, turtles, fish and dolphins that become trapped in the waste. It spoke out against the problem to the Olive Press following reports that some Almunecar residents were using the Rio Verde to dump their household rubbish instead of disposing of it properly. “There is a big problem with rubbish that is left in and next to rivers,” said a spokesperson. “We are constantly trying to make people aware that absolutely everything that they throw away there, in the countryside or at the side of the road ends up in the sea. “There, it kills everything from birds to dolphins, who get caught up in or injure themselves on the packaging.”

March 29th - April 11th 2017

A FIGHT to designate a mountain range as a national park is to be debated by politicians. Both the chambers of the Junta and the government’s house of deputies are to discuss whether Estepona’s Sierra Bermeja can be granted the status in order to give it extra protection. No dates have yet been set for the de-

Murky waters

bates, which will centre around whether the range can be included as an extension of another, more progressed bid to turn neighbouring Sierra de las Nieves into a national park. Malaga province’s government, scientists and conservationists are among those who have now thrown their weight behind the proposal.

SAFER: Spain’s dogs

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34% of sewage plants still processing waste dangerously

ONE third of Andalucian sewage plants are not safely processing waste. More than 60 plants were found to be breaching regulations through practices dangerous to both people’s health and the environment, according to a study by Ecologistas en Accion. The green group found that Estepona and Istan are the worst offenders on the Costa del Sol, along with San Roque and Barbate in Cadiz and the Pradollano plant for the Sierra Nevada ski resort. Researchers looked at 12,000 water samples collected in and near the plants between 2013 to 2015, some of which showed high levels of contamination.

They also found that some polluted waters were spilling into protected areas away from the sites. Furthermore, it was discovered that despite funding, 62% of works earmarked to improve the plants in 2010 have still not begun. Last November, Spain was fined €46.5m by the EU Commission for failing to ensure its plants were safely processing sewage. “We demand that authorities on all levels work together to better the purification process in Andalucia,” said a spokesman for Ecologistas en Accion. “Otherwise the sanctions will not stop, which will ultimately lead to citizens paying out for what is the responsibility of others.”

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THE docking of dogs’ tails for aesthetic reasons has finally been banned in Spain. Under the new law, the amputation of ears, claws, teeth or vocal chords is also banned due to widespread belief that it amounts to cruelty. The government approved the ban by ratifying the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals, a process undertaken by some European countries almost 30 years ago. Andalucia was one of seven autonomous communities that had already banned the practice despite the lack of a national law, which must now be adhered to in the remaining 10 regions.

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We want out! PRO-INDEPENDENCE Spanish lawmakers in Catalunya have approved a 2017 budget to fund a referendum to secede from Spain. The budget guarantees funds for a vote on secession despite warnings that it would be unconstitutional. Catalunya has aimed to become independent from Spain for years, despite it being against the country's constitution. The Catalan government has pledged to hold a referendum by the end of September.

Under fire THE president of the Junta has come under fire after announcing her bid to become PSOE’s next party leader. Opposition parties have decried Susana Diaz after she formally declared her candidacy, saying that it will be impossible for her to continue dedicating herself ‘one hundred percent’ to her Andalucia job if she were to win the election. In her first interview since unveiling her leadership campaign in Madrid, she insisted that holding both posts would ‘of course’ be compatible. This was questioned by PP, Podemos and Izquierda Unida, with Juanma Moreno, PP Andalucia president, suggesting that dedicating more time to the PSOE would impact on the time she has available to deal with regional issues. Diaz joins the other candidates Pedro Sanchez and Patxi Lopez.

NOT ME GUV: Rivera takes a read of our last Olive Press front page but is not convinced about the splash headline

Backing Brits ALBERT Rivera has told The Olive Press he offers his 'total support' to British expats living in Spain. The Ciudadanos leader was speaking at a party rally in Teatro Las Lagunas in Mijas. During his speech, Rivera took aim at corruption and overspending by previous political administrations. But speaking exclusively to The

EXCLUSIVE: Ciudadanos leader Albert Rivera offers ‘total support’ to British expats in Spain Olive Press afterwards, Rivera backed Brits living here, with Brexit currently sending fears through the expat community. "I offer my total support to British people here in Spain," he

Thanks, Theresa SPAIN has applauded Theresa May’s tough approach to Scottish independence. It comes after she told SNP’s Nicola Sturgeon that ‘now is not the time’ for a referendum on the issue. Enric Millo, the central government’s representative in the Catalan capital Barcelona, said in an interview: “Both governments understand that a referendum isn’t the best way of solving this kind of political dispute.” “We have been clear about that for a long time. And now the UK is clear about it too.” Spain is a key potential ally to May’s government as it tries to negotiate Brexit terms with its European neighbours. Spain benefits from 18 million British tourists a year while it also invests €122 billion a year into the UK economy. Edinburgh is also keen to get Spain on board given that it would have veto power on any future independent Scotland applying for EU membership. “A referendum that produces a winner and a loser doesn’t resolve the conflict,” said Millo, who hosted the British ambassador to Spain, Simon Manley, earlier this week. “You make progress on the issue when there is dialogue and a willingness to reach an agreement.”

said. "I know there are a lot of British people who wanted to carry on being in the EU, but it looks like it's going to be confirmed soon the UK is going to start the process of exiting. "I fully back the good relationship the Spanish and UK governments have, despite this decision." At one point during his speech, Rivera brandished a newspaper article, which claimed Mijas PP councillor Santiago Martin offered work to Podemos councillor Francisco Martínez in return for political support. "You can't have politicians buying work from other councillors. With Ciudadanos, this will never happen," said Rivera. Rivera compared the incident to 'caciquismo', a corrupt nineteenth century political system. The leader also attacked the overspending of past political regimes. "There are airports that have been built without planes, trains without passengers, roads without cars," he said. "They have stolen €60 billion.” He also proposed a 'Mediterranean corridor' from Andalucia to Catalunya, and called for funds to improve transport links along Spain's coast.

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Sing when you’re winning AN expat choir hit the right notes at an international festival. Coraxalia Choir, which counts several British members, took centre stage at the First International Choir Festival at Manuel de Falla Concert Hall in Granada. The La Vinuela group was chosen as one of only four from Spain and beyond to perform Mozart's Requiem with the Granada province orchestra. Following from their performance, the choir has invited new members to join and take part in upcoming festivals around the region. Those interested should email eucorax@ hotmail.es for more information.

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March 29th - April 11th 2017

Water relief AXARQUIA’S water company has committed to recycling and reducing consumption. It has pledged to improve water purification facilities at La Vinuela reservoir and waste water from the coastal municipalities.

Expats urged to sign onto Torrox’s padron A CAMPAIGN has been launched to urge expats to sign onto the padron. Torrox Council wants as many residents as possible to sign onto the official population list so that it can access muchneeded funding.

Vital

Its call comes as Theresa May officially triggers Article 50 to begin the process to take Britain out of the EU, threatening the status of Brits living abroad. According to mayor Óscar Medina, 18,756 people are on Torrox’s padron, a

It is also planning on searching for new water sources that will provide water in the medium to long term. A study conducted by the Richwater project will also test the suitability of purified water for crop irrigation by applying innovative technology.

Roll call figure he believes is lower than the true number. The lack of registrations means the town cannot claim the 150 it is entitled to per officially registered person, which provides funding for vital services

A holy transformation The Ministry for the Environment will invest €450,000 to transform Torrox beaches in time for Holy Week. Following last winter’s storms, the government has pledged to improve the state of the area’s beaches in time for the important event. A councillor for the area praised the actions undertaken to ensure minimal damage was done during the storms, and said that the beaches must be in an impeccable state in time for the high season.

such as medical care, policing, education, security and infrastructure. Registrees, who must have lived in the town for over three months, also benefit from access to free sports and cultural activities. Those already on the list must re-register every five years. Two staff have been hired to oversee the drive, while information leaflets are being printed in different languages. “We want to push so that for the first time in its history, Torrox can pass the barrier of 20,000 inhabitants, which would have great advantages at the budget level,” said deputy mayor Paola Moreno.

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Guilty!

A NOTORIOUS costa conman may finally be put behind bars. Jose Luis Garcia Maseda has been sentenced to two-and-ahalf years in prison after a decade-long battle with a victim, who refused to give up. The Fuengirola fraudster - who may have conned up to 200 expats in shady deals - has been found guilty at a Malaga court. Maseda, 75, has been ordered to return €95,000 to British businessman Gareth Malone or head straight to jail. Last night the company director, 36, based in London, told the Olive Press: “I couldn’t let him get away with it. “He simply had to pay for what he has done, and I know there are lots more victims out there like me.” The Olive Press first reported on Maseda in 2009, revealing how he had convinced hundreds of clients to invest their money from his Eurobrokers office, in Arroyo de la Miel. Most cases were strikingly similar, with smooth-talking Maseda having been recommended to them via a series of third

Notorious costa conman finally ordered to prison after a decade-long legal battle

parties, or even local banks. In most cases he managed to get his victims to sign over power of attorney, often ‘to lighten the paperwork’, which enabled him to take out big mortgages in their names. Victims only became aware when instalments began to be charged monthly or in some cases when they were contacted by the banks for defaulting on repayments. One lawyer, Juan Carlos Carrasco Garcia, who represented a number of victims, praised the Olive Press for its reporting at the time. He said: “It is an important case in the fight against the corruption that exists on the Costa del Sol.” Malone (left), has been chasing Maseda since he solicited his services as a lawyer in 2006. Maseda had promised to help him organise the rental of a property he had inherited from his family in

FACING JAIL: Maseda Mollina, near Antequera. Maseda, who claimed to be a lawyer, financial consultant and tax advisor, agreed to help manage the paperwork for the €350,000 four-bedroom villa. “Maseda made me sign documents giving him power of attorney and promised to organise it all.” However, a year later he began receiving letters demanding that a strange mortgage be paid off on the property. It emerged that instead of making Malone a landlord, Maseda

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and quarter

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Q2 2013 Q3 2013

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Either way, confirm the official statistics out this month British market tens of thousands remains strong dream home. continue to and look for their Respected How to analyst Mark eign demand for SpanishStucklin insists that reclaim floor in the first quarter with property was up forof foreign buyers 16% Brits clause fees at 22% of thethe biggest group “The British market share. property andstill dominate the foreign able decline there is no evidence market for of a noticeAnd certainlyin demand as yet,” he said. One agent, not everyone is suffering. has seen ‘noGraham Govier of Inland Andalucia referendum negative impact’ at all during “In fact it lead-up. the cheap rightis the opposite. Prices now and we are extremely many properties are as we were selling two times as He added: last year,” “My salesman a local celebrity Paul - alreadyhe said. a bit of enth consecutive- has just completed sale and his sevbecause they can see that people are buying won’t wait Introducing the incredible Paul madearound for them forever,” deals he added. OP’s Agony year when headlines in the Olive Press ties in a row.he sold an impressive last Uncle nine proper-

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had actually taken out a €95,000 mortgage in his name and pocketed the money. “He set up a bank account with Bankinter under my name and transferred the money to himself. “My age, passport number and address were all wrong, how can a bank do that? It’s unbelievable.” Maseda initially began sending Malone money, claiming it was from tenants, but then it dried up. When the Londoner began questioning Maseda in 2007, he was nowhere to be found. “He literally disappeared off the face of the earth, he’s a real piece of work.”

Battle

Malone began his legal battle the following year and has been chasing Maseda ever since. While he declared himself bankrupt and unable to pay some years back the court has ordered him to pay €95,000 mortgage as well legal costs or face jail time. Malone, who owns a Telecommunications company in London, is hoping other victims will follow his lead. “He should spend the rest of his years in prison, he deserves it,” he added. At least 45 victims have pursued him in the courts, but there could be up to 200 victims, estimate lawyers. While the amounts stolen are around at least €1.4 million, the actual figure could be far higher. Opinion Page 6

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

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million seats have been made available to and from Malaga from now until October, signalling a surge in tourism to the Costal del Sol.

“We have spent around lion here so far and have€86 milof €100 million a fund plained Managingto spend,” exPartner Peter Wells, based “We are one in Colorado. opers on theof the largest develour emphasisCosta del Sol and is on distressed properties.” He added: transparently“Also we do things deliver on priceand always try and and quality.” The company - which made dreds of millions huning distressed buying and sellUS - has 16 properties in the its office at staff working out of Local boss Centro Plaza. “The coast Taylor Cox, added: come alive is really starting to live in such and it’s a pleasure to a beautiful world.” part of the

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Fred B, Sabinillas

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2016

Guilty!

The UK is headed for a massive housing crash much like Spain suffered (UK home ownership falling faster than any other European country, issue 261). Indeed many sellers are already reducing their asking prices, some by hundreds of thousands of pounds. Spain, with all of its empty properties, could do so well out of this, if only they could sort of their corruption and awful property laws. A post-Brexit deal on reciprocal rights of UK and OWNERS HIP DOW Spanish people N would add a lot of weight too.

10,000

- June 7th

by Iona Napier

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

Crash time

years ago, it is believed that Mesolithic Spanish humans cooked and dined on other people after researchers found evidence of cannibalism in 30 human remains and three skulls.

and Wells

A NOTORIOUS had actually taken may finally be put costa conman mortgage in his out a €95,000 Jose Luis Garcia behind bars. eted the money. name and pockMaseda has been sentenced “He set up a bank to two-and-ahalf years in prison Bankinter under account with after a decade-long battle transferred the my name and with a victim, parties, or even local banks. money to himwho refused to give In most cases he self. up. managed to The Fuengirola “My age, passport fraudster - who his victims to sign over powerget may have conned number and address were all up to 200 ex- attorney, often ‘to lighten the of pats in shady deals paa bank do that?wrong, how can - has been perwork’, which enabled him to It’s unbelievfound guilty at a take out big mortgages able.” in their Maseda, 75, has Malaga court. names. Maseda initially return €95,000 been ordered to Victims only Malone money, began sending became aware claiming it was nessman Gareth to British busi- when instalments from tenants, but then it dried straight to jail. Malone or head charged monthly began to be up. or in some Last night the company cases when they When the Londoner were contacted 36, based in London, director, by the banks began questioning Maseda in 2007, he was ive Press: “I couldn’t told the Ol- repayments. for defaulting on nowhere to be found. let him get away with it. One lawyer, Juan “He literally Carlos Carrasdisappeared off “He simply had the face of the earth, to pay for what co Garcia, who represented he’s a real piece he has done, and of work.” I know there number of victims, praised thea are lots more victims Olive FACING JAIL: out there the Press for its reporting at like me.” Maseda time. The Olive Press Battle He said: “It is an Mollina, near Antequera. important on Maseda in first reported Malone began Maseda, who claimed case in the fight 2009, revealhis legal battle ing how he had to be a the following year lawyer, financial the corruption against consultant hundreds of clientsconvinced chasing Maseda and has been and tax advisor, ists on the Costa that exever since. agreed to help del Sol.” their money from to invest While he declared manage the paperwork Malone (left), has Eurobrokers office,his rupt and unable himself bank€350,000 four-bedroom for the chasing Maseda been Arroyo de la Miel. in since villa. years back the courtto pay some “Maseda made he solicited his me sign docuMost cases him to pay €95,000 has ordered ments giving him were vices as a lawyerserpower of atstrikingly similar, in well legal costs or mortgage as torney and promised 2006. face jail time. to organise with smooth-talkMalone, who owns it all.” Maseda a had proming Maseda havmunications company TelecomHowever, a year ised to help him in Loning been recomdon, is hoping other receiving letters later he began organise the rentvictims will demanding that mended to them follow his lead. a strange mortgage al of a property be paid off via a series of third “He should spend on the property. he had inherited years in prison, the rest of his It emerged that from his family he deserves it,” instead of makin he added. ing Malone a landlord, Maseda At least 45 victims have him in the courts, pursued but there could be up to estimate lawyers.200 victims, While the amounts stolen are around at least the actual figure €1.4 million, could be far higher.

15 March

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A couple of years is not a deterrent, and invites others to do the same (Conman Jose Maseda jailed for two and a half years, issue 261). Conman Jose Maseda has undoubtedly stashed the money away (and it has to be €10 million or more) and will be out to enjoy it afterwards. Crazy justice.

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ple think tha by using a ker for insu t Downloabro ance tha d our t it ma andry app cosnow t mo moneybeg re in enjo . The yinghow re is theeve besr,t Spa reasonnew nonish why s on this the go.should the case. Like be Book with the Voted in this world, with everything coast’s most BEST trusted expat shop around one is free to Mijas transfer paper Costa in company whatever thefor the best price Spain See xx be, but with purchase may A BRpage info@simply-shut IT who lost his tles.com dep need think insurance, you illegal ‘off -pla Let’ s n’ goapartmentosit for an further than cost. the cade ago haside! Brit is final finally won a over a depayoutouts mammoth In Spain, the . ly co on English com re are not any Malcolm Young, 56, ill egal ‘off pl mpensated for loss in 200 ison eparOl sites, LS 4 for ive like theTh TOa Marbe paid €130,000 ye an’ pad he Prun-es BAL UK, built XIT ar s without the lla flat, but it was ag bought 13 many, each where there are sBRE o correct planni ing for permission. ng forcom busineTO nepet ss,P with a ws ainHe bomin ! couldn’t move in ment of com barSp dor spent years cash back battling for sell it and ing. Here it’sical TV advertis- his dep whe n the builder theNotorio return went bust. of conman finally us costa s firm Of course, we a little subtler. Now, osit in Spanish courts. ordered to prison “We though after Corcoya -long legal battlea that work sole do have those awarde13 years later, Youngdecade TH3303 has money again.t we’d never see the where you getly by telephone, lowing ad €230,000 from a ban been Luis Cuervo There was no chance 59.950€ k follandmark ruli Modern 3 be , say, car insu your quote for The Decem CEO ng. of Spanish Leg .” Reclaims, said d, 2 bath tow al thing therea rance, and every- the bank is ber ruling declared tha You nhouse ng in Corcoya. is one of tho sands who can uOff road pa exp by post or fter is then done developers, responsible, along wit t ect a “Thousands pay rking, h for deposit rear patio and of British buyout. This, of cou perhaps email. buyers’ lost cas s made by had terrace wit big dream ers who rse is very imp h. h views over sonal and ma er- “It seemed like the sun wer s of owning a place in the country could creep y be mistakes time. 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3.2% is how much Spain’s

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Our readers’ thoughts on Brexit after the date to trigger Article 50 was announced as March 29, and after a leaked document revealed the EU is seeking a €57 billion ‘exit fee’

pay your pension and for other responsibilities. You can’t just ditch them and walk away.

Tough talks

Sad times

We are the ones in debt to the EU. Not surprised it wants its money back as we are leaving. And we don’t get to keep the house, the car, nor continue to sleep in the marriage bed. That’s divorce for you! Negotiations will be tough as we walked out and didn’t even close the door!

These are very sad times both for the UK and the EU. This is not progress. And to top it all off, Theresa May is an unelected prime minister.

Katrina Edbrooke, London

Pay up The UK had a very good deal with the EU. You signed up and agreed to contribute until 2020. In life you have to STAY if you can. Britain will only treat returnees with contempt and penury. Don’t imagine for one moment that a ‘benefits’ cushion awaits you. They see you as deserters, traitors even, for having the temerity to turn your backs on Britannia. Stefanjo, Malaga

Just you try it! I live in Spain and have for many years and I have seen the police pull guns on people who were out of control, especially if a weapon of any description is involved (British man shot by cops in his backside in southern Spain after ‘pulling knife on ex-partner’, online). These guys do not pussyfoot around. The word is RESPECT. It's a two way street, they respect you, you must respect them. Otherwise you will bear the consequences. This is not UK where you can swear at the police and treat them like dirt. Come here and try it, see what happens!

Ann Franke, Rawdon UK

Nicola Fitzgerald, Malaga

Foolish The UK is its own worst enemy. We have picked a fight with the EU and are expecting it to lie down and cave in to our demands Kenneth Williams, Estepona

God forbid I came to live in Spain before they joined the EU, and it was not easy to get permission to stay here more than 30 days at a time (Brits afraid to retire amid Brexit concerns about pensions and healthcare, online). Forget about working if they found you working they kicked you out and stamped your passport so you could not come back for a year, god forbid if it returns to that, some people will get a shock! Ray Lee, Marbella

Lynda Addi, London

RIP

Scott free

We knew her and she was a brave, warm and selfless soul (Brave British expat and cystic fibrosis campaigner Becky Baker dies, online). We are so sad to hear of her passing away. Rest in peace.

Let them get on with it. Brits are sick and tired of listening to Nicola Sturgeon and i guess most Spanish feel the same way about Catalunya.. At the end of the day most Scottish and Catalan citizens know where their bread is buttered.

Lorna Button, Marbella

Elizabeth Jones, Estepona

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

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what’s on

alaga, 29

Ancient Spaniards in Alicante cooked and ate each other just 10,000 years ago

Download our app now and MORE than two dozen human food scarcity. begin enjoying the best Spanish bones found in a Spanish cave Published in the journal of Anon the go.Trump have unveiled the cannibalistic thropological Archaeology, the EFFIGIES news of Donald went up in flames at the finale practices of the Mesolithic peo- study describes the strange markings found on 30 different human of the Las Fallas festival in Va- ple. The remains are covered in marks bones in the ancient Santa Maira lencia in March. Months of painstaking work go made from stone tools, fire and caves in Alicante. into constructing the 'ninots' human teeth, suggesting that They include three cranial remains, which were traced to a ‘roout of wood, plaster and papier they were cooked and eaten. mâché before they are burned Dating back to at least two dif- bust’ adult, a slim adult, and an to the ground at the festival's ferent periods between 10,000 small child or infant. and 9,000 years ago, the remains The team found the same lithic fiery finish. The Olive Press The yearly tradition marks the were discovered among animal marks on both the animal and change of seasons with a five- bones which had similar mark- human remains including tooth ings. marks, percussion, and fire TOPcommemorating for news in Spain! day fiesta Saint Joseph, the patron saint It is not yet known whether hu- marks. mans were killed and eaten as The researchers said the period of of carpenters. Hundreds of sculptures are part of a ritual or as a result of the remains was one of increased scattered across the city for the public to view before they vote to elect their favourites. They are then saved from the bonfire to join a select number of ninots at the local Fallas MuA perfume museum has opened in the techniques behind creating seum. Unfortunately for Trump, he a 17th-century Renaissance pal- perfumes. ace in Granada. A 45-minute guided tour of Patio wasn’t looked to favourably upon. The statues are usually an ode Inside the palace was a laboratory de los Perfumes is available from to Spanish political events, ce- dedicated to perfume making, es- 10am to 8pm during which visitors can view perfume exhibilebrities or local stories, but sential oils, ceramics and more. they can also include recent Now the opulent building is open tions, and there are also workto visitors who wish to discover shops for those who would like to global events.

1313

March

Celebrated Israeli artist Noa comes to the Cervantes Theatre with Gil Dor and the Solis String Quartet from Naples. The artists return to Spain to perform old and new compositions with influences from all over the Mediterranean and genres including jazz and rock. Tickets €12.

stepona, March 31 - April 2

The annual Estepona Tattoo Expo returns this Spring to the Palacio de congresos. It will include contests, music, a BMX exhibition and artists from all over the world exhibiting their work and performing live tattoos. Tickets €5.

alaga, April 9 - 16

Renaissance scent-sation create their own unique scent under the guidance of a professional perfumer. Botanist and perfumer Christian Pamies, and natural cosmetics specialist Valérie Sabini, both from France, are the brains behind the concept.

The spectacular Semana Santa processions in Malaga have brought colour, sound and religious traditions to the city for more than 500 years. Floats, musical performances and festivities make it one of the most important events in the city.

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SPANISH DÍA DEL NIÑO Saturday 15th April - 11.30hrs to 15.00hrs • Face painting • Charity raffle - 1€ per ticket All proceeds go to The George Elliot Foundation in Estepona.

EASTER SUNDAY EGGSTRAVAGANZA Sunday 16th April 11.30hrs to 17.00hrs

Standard entry fee of 5.95€ (1 to 3) 10.95€ (4 to 12).

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See Events page on our website for more details. Mundo Manía, Urb Taraje, 53-75 Camino de Brijan s/n 29680 Estepona, Málaga.

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March 29th - April 11th 2017

Issue 13

March - April 11th 2017 STRUGGLING TO29th SELL YOUR SPANISH PROPERTY?

Behind on your mortgage payments and need assistance?

See page 16 for details To find out more, go to www.sellmypropertyinspain.com or call 673 669 105 today

Anything but a dump Mogul’s Marbella TV debut

Page III

Tivoli world makeover

page V A dedicated Spanish architect has spent more than 30 years turning a rundown cement factory into his perfect home and office space

Page XI

Bad practice I T is a practice that most property professionals had hoped was a thing of the past. But Olive Press Property can reveal that the ethically questionable practice of charging buyers as well as sellers is rearing its head again on the Costa del Sol. According to sources, at least two agents in the Marbella area have recently stung their buyers with bills of up to 5%. The so called ‘finder’s fees’ are in addition from taking commission from the seller. “It’s disgusting,” said Terra Meridiana’s Adam Neale, “I have nothing wrong with finder’s fees if you agree it with the client beforehand, but I have heard from several buyers that certain agents are adding a 5% fee with no prior warning. “It’s bad ethics and gives agents on the Costa del Sol a bad name.” Mike Smith, Chairman of Marbella-based First Choice Spain, agreed that charging potential buyers such fees was ‘ob-

EXCLUSIVE: Agents unite as some ‘bad apples’ are slapping finders fees on buyers without warning

scene’, especially when you consider they already have very high purchase taxes which are often in excess of 10%. “We as agents are paid by the sellers and we never charge a fee to a buyer,” he said, “On the whole our industry works very well as it is, without the need to start charging such high additional fees to buyers. We should be encouraging them to invest here!” Ben Bateman of Holmes in Sotogrande added he was aware of the practice happening ‘in a few cases’. “It is totally unethical and gives our business a bad reputation for sharp practices,” he said.

“I have no objection to agents operating with a finder’s fee, but I do object when these so called buyers bill both sides without declaring from the outset that they will be doing so.” He added: “When unscrupulous agents abuse the system by adding extra amounts, the whole industry suffers. “Beware of this sharp practise.” Legal expert Antonio Flores added that such practises can be deemed illegal. “It is not illegal to have your commission built into the price, with the agreement of the vendor,” he told the Olive Press. The problem is when an agent adds a commission on top but does not tell the buyer or seller. “This happens when the agent is the middle man and the parties are not in touch via their lawyers. This is actually a criminal offence.” Have you been a victim? Email newsdesk@theolivepress.es

Granada’s new eco-village

page xIV

Andalucia’s highest towns

page XVII

STRUGGLING TO SELL YOUR SPANISH PROPERTY? Behind on your mortgage payments and need assistance? We know how to make your property stand out in the market and can advance funds to cover your mortgage until your property is sold. See page 16 for more details. To find out more, go to www.sellmypropertyinspain.com or call 673 669 105 today

II 16

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MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

Silver lining MORE retirees are looking to Spain to invest in property. Silver Travel Advisor, which specialises in holidays for people aged 50 and over, says elderly Brits hold 80% of the UK’s private wealth, and that more and more are looking to Spain as a safe and attractive investment. The country is home to 14% of all Brits who live overseas, meaning the property market could be in for a summer boost as soon-tobe retirees take stock and look at their options. “Retirees these days have more funds behind them to explore the world with, but a considerable number look no further than Spain,” said Kyero Director Martin Dell.

Income

“There’s the great weather, healthy cuisine, delicious wine, pristine golf courses and beautiful beaches, for a start. Plus, those on a fixed income can get more for their money.” Figures from UK building society Nationwide show that the average home in Britain now costs £200,251, which equates to €255,000 – enough to snap up a substantial property in Spain. The Costa del Sol remains one of the cheapest holiday destinations in Europe, which means living here is easier on the wallet too.

Solid start YEAR ON YEAR: Home sales (left), house prices (right)

Let’s hope January was a sign of things to come, writes Mark Stucklin

HE nation’s housing market really did get off to a good start this year, according to the latest data from the Association of Spanish Notaries. January was a month during which both sales and prices rose. There were 33,670 homes sales witnessed by Spanish notaries in January, up 16.8% compared to the same month last year, though a more modest +12% when corrected for seasonality (see chart above left).

Meanwhile, house prices were up by 1.8% (see chart above right) to an average of 1,355 €/m2, though that figure doesn’t really tell us much because house price data in Spain is so unreliable. What is certain though is that new mortgage loans were up 27% to 15,624. Figures from the National Institute of Statistics tell a similar story, with Spanish home sales inscribed in the Land Registry up 19% in January. But

those figures are based on sales that took place a few months before, say between October and December. The Notaries’ figures are based on sales witnessed in January, so their figures are more timely, and give us a more up-to-date picture. Whichever figures you look at, the picture is one of sustained recovery in Spanish home sales and mortgage lending, with house prices rising in hot markets like Barcelona, Madri, the Balearics and also Marbella.

STRUGGLING TO SELL YOUR SPANISH PROPERTY? Behind on your mortgage payments and need assistance? In today's crowded marketplace, buyers are more demanding than ever. If your property needs refurbishment or even a complete facelift to make it stand out in the market, we have the right experience and resources to: Finance the renovation and stage your property for a quick sale Cover your monthly mortgage payments until your property is sold No upfront costs No risk Highly experienced team Limited opportunity for the right properties (La Cala de Mijas to Estepona)

To find out more, go to www.sellmypropertyinspain.com or call 673 669 105 today

Property www.theolivepress.es Plumbing magnate flaunts his glitzy Marbella lifestyle on British reality TV

NE of the UK’s most successful businessmen has been giving British TV viewers a glimpse of how the rich live in Marbella. The Pimlico Plumbers CEO shares his flush with success on the Channel 4 reality show, How’d You Get So Rich? Charlie Mullins, who owns the biggest plumbing firm in the UK, worth €80 million, showed comedian Katherine Ryan around the London and Marbella pads he has bought with the fruits of his labours. He flies between his €9 million penthouse in London and his €15 million bolthole in Marbella by private jet. He also drives two Bentley cars.

March 29th - April 11th 2017

From root valves to riches

A-List

Mullins left school at 15 and became an entrepreneur, setting up his own business, Pimlico Plumbers, in his basement in 1979 after completing a four-year apprenticeship. He has now been named as Britain’s richest plumber with an A-list of clients who include Richard Branson, Simon Cowell and ex-UK Prime Minister David Cameron. On the show, Ryan jets out to Marbella with Mullins to look around another luxury villa that the plumbing mogul plans on purchasing to boost his portfolio, which already contains two properties in the area. While looking around the first luxury villa, the pair are seen joking about Charlie’s cock-

ON-SCREEN: Mullins’ Marbella mansion, Bentley (inset top) with Katherine Ryan ney accent and were even villa and assuring Katherine it filmed twerking on the balco- won’t tug on his purse strings. “No, we’ll take on more ny of the plush pad. But Charlie foregoes buy- plumbers and do more work ing the home, instead opt- out here. I think we can afford ing for another €15.9 million it,” he says.

Barren times A STRUGGLING millionaire art collector may be forced to rent out her home on the Costa del Sol. Baroness Carmen Thyssen has admitted she has ‘not yet ruled out’ renting her massive 1,000sqm Marbella pad, in order to ease her cash flow crisis. She lovingly refers to it as Mata Mua, a reference to her favourite painting by Paul Gaugin. “I have not yet ruled out the rent of the house in Marbella,” said Thyssen in a recent interview, in which she also talked about putting one of her collection pieces, Edgar Degas’s Race Horses in a Landscape, up for sale. “I have current liquidity problems,” she admitted. The house is one of several owned by the glamorous 73-year-old who now lives in Andorra. Her collection also includes a mansion in Lugano, a chalet in La Moraleja and a house in Sant Feliu de Guixols.

Bagged THE world’s most eligible bachelor and owner of one of Spain’s largest estates - La Garganta in Cordoba - is officially off the market. Hugh Grosvenor, the Duke of Westminster, has been spotted holidaying with the ‘love of his life’, new girlfriend Harriet Tomlinson. Grosvenor became the seventh Duke of Westminster when his father Gerald died suddenly nine months ago.The 26-year-old inherited the bulk of his father’s €9.5 billion fortune, including the massive hunting estate which straddles the Cordoba and Castille la Mancha border.

Luxury hotel addition A LUXURY hotel chain is to open a resort in Marbella. W Hotels, which belongs to umbrella group Starwood Hotels, is to manage the 300m five star project by investors Platinum Estates in Las Dunas de Real de Zaragoza zone. The 151,000msq beachfront site is the latest

project for the worldwide hotel group, which has another hotel in Barcelona and one under construction in Madrid. The three-storey-high building, which is set to open for business in 2019. Talking about the hotel, Mayor José Bernal said: “Since we came

to governance we have worked to attract tourist investments that better the welfare of our citizens by generating wealth and employment. “The investment will be an important stimulus for the town and for its tourism, our main industry.”

III

March 29th - April 11th 2017

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MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

A whole new world

Iconic Malaga theme park set for massive €300 million makeover

NE of the Costa del Sol’s most iconic amusement parks is to receive a €300 million makeover. Tivoli World, in Benalmadena, will be completely modernised while adjoining land will be developed into a commercial and leisure centre. Madrid-based firm Tremon plans to build a complex covering more than 152,000m2 on the east side of the park, along with gardens and a 2,000-space car park. Hypermarkets, a cinema, concert hall, office blocks and a hotel will all feature in the project. Upgrades in the park itself would see the addition of 43 new attractions, including a mini Formula 1 circuit, an ‘Everest expedition’ and an area for extreme

stunt demonstrations. The town hall would gain a significant cash injection from planning permission fees and taxes, while the creation of jobs – 1,600 for construction and 3,300 after completion – and a boost to tourist numbers will revive the area. The project is expected to take two years to complete. But it cannot go forward until a legal dispute is settled between the park’s previous owner Rafael Gomez and current owners Tremon. Gomez, aka ‘Sandokan’, who is serving five years for tax offences, claimed the original sale of the park to Tremon in 2007 was never fully completed, and took the company to court. It led to an unusual arrangement whereby Tivoli World is in the name of Tremon but under the management of one of Gomez’s companies. Tremon has said it will push ahead with its project as soon as the dispute is settled.

V 19

Deal breaker SPAIN is still one of the cheapest countries to live in in Europe. Going out for a beer, gym membership and paying bills is more affordable than in seven other principal European nations such as the UK, Germany and Italy. A 0.5 litre pinta of beer costs an average of €3.5 in Spain, with monthly utility bills costing €115 and gym membership €36. Home rental website Spotahome drew the conclusions after conducting research into living costs in the UK, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Belgium, France and Austria.

Marbella Port gets sheikh-up

LA Bajadilla port in Marbella is back in public hands after its wealthy Arab owner backpedalled on payments. Sheikh Nasser Al-Thani, who owns Malaga FC, has been embroiled in a court case after failing to act on promised plans to convert the harbour into a luxurious boating and yacht hotspot. Boat owners have been left furious after having to deal with dirt and dilapidation from the unfinished project. The saga is likely to escalate tensions beteen Al-Thani and Marbella authorities, with mayor Jose Bernal already refused a meeting with the sheikh, saying the billionaire had ‘insulted Marbella’ with his actions.

VI 20

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- April MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017

UNREAL: Before works(left) and project today (right)

Mixing it up

Spanish architect’s unbelievable makeover of a rundown cement factory

ICARDO Bofill has spent 44 years turning a rundown cement factory into a fairytale home. The Spanish architect bought the early twentieth-century compound and, working with local Catalan craftsmen, transformed the sprawling structure of silos and compounds into an incredible palatial home that blends surrealism, industrialism, and modernism. Located in Catalunya the renovation is remarkable – not only for its stunning appearance, but also for the architect’s ongoing ambition to make the concrete fortress into a surprisingly livable home and studio.

Evolving

OFFICE SPACE: Not a bad office view (above)

The labour of love is constantly evolving as Bofill plans to make it as liveable as possible. The renewal has included partial destruction with dynamite and total replanting of the area. Designed to be his dream home, it even has a huge workspace and office for his architecture firm. “I want life to be perfectly programmed here, ritualised, in total contrast with my turbulent nomad life,” said Bofill. His firm says the project ‘will always remain an unfinished work.’

LEFT TO RIGHT: Living room, aerial shot and lounge

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The battle continues

The battle for the consumers' rights against banks' abuses in Spain continues. The government has recently passed a decree which tries to force the negotiation of the complaints about the so-called ‘floor clauses’ (technically ‘minimum rate clauses’) which the banks had been forcing on the mortgage deeds over the last 15 years, so that any consumer has to follow a preliminary complaint process at the bank. Failure to do this implies at the very least losing the award of costs and, in some cases, it may result in the clients losing the case at court, therefore it is highly advisable to follow the steps. As to how this process works, it is still too soon but the experience tells that for many people this is just a waste of time since the banks usually try to make alternative offers of rate reduction instead of refunding the moneys. However there is a new battlefield on mortgage costs, since the Spanish Supreme court has recently maintained that most mortgage expenses – Notary, Stamp duty, land registry - are to be paid by the bank and not by the consumer. At the end of the day, most clients are filing requests for refund of the extra moneys paid on mortgage costs along with minimum rate clauses.

Mission drinkable March - April 11th 2017 March 29th29th - April 11th 2017

From a life on the water to water in your home, marine engineer Jimmy Wendt has the perfect green solution for you

X-marine engineer Jimmy Wendt spent his life on the ocean waves looking after all range of boats and craft. Now the 56-year-old is using many decades of knowledge with his new intelligent water filtration company based in southern Spain. Following success in Alicante and Mallorca, Wendt and wife Marie, have set up shop here with Eco Filters Costa del Sol. “I wanted a change in my life and was attracted to the idea of creating an ecofriendly company,” explains Wendt. “I wasn’t expecting to have such good results here, it has definitely exceeded expectations.”

Nasty

The company provides several filtration products aimed at removing all range of chemicals and other nasty substances from your water. A full water treatment system will improve the quality of your water by making it softer and removing harmful additives such as chlorine and calcium, which can lead to kidney stones. This is not only better for your health, but it reduces the damage to your metal appliances such as washing machines, meaning they will last longer and save you cash. They also save money as, unlike other filters, Ecofilters don’t need electricity to work and don’t waste water. “We are totally green,” says Wendt, “And what’s great is you will no longer have to keep buying plastic bottles as your tap water will be more than safe.” On average your drinking water costs will be about a third of buying bottled water from

WATER WIZARD: Jimmy Wendt

supermarkets, and you will only need to change the cartridge once every 12 months while one filter cartridge gives you 10,000 litres. If you don’t want the full treatment system, you can opt for cheaper shower filters or tap filters. Wendt is hoping to reach more British buyers, particularly those living inland. “I have just moved to Coin myself and I know

there are issues here with the water,” he explains, “I hope to reach more British people and help make their water drinkable.” One happy client is Gabriella Chidgey, who has a farm near Ronda, entirely using the company’s products. She said: “Not only is the water fabulous to drink you can really feel the difference when you take a bath or shower. It is also great to feel we are doing our bit for the environment.” Ecofilters are sole representatives for Geyser filters, St.Petersburg which started and launched the patent for this filter technology back in 1986 in the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear accident where the filters were used for filtering contaminated water in the area. The technology is based on a globular structure, called SGS polymers, which is a radically new material combining three types of filtration: mechanical, absorption and ionexchange. It involves quasi-softening that changes the structure of salts passing through the filter material and as a result no scale is formed in the purified water. Come and visit the company shop at Centro Idea, in Mijas, between 10.30 and 14.00 and see first hand how our devices work. Or call 605 432 004. Visit www.ecofilters.net

Property Fair Spain is back in Malaga again THE second free Property Fair Spain will take place in Fuengirola on Friday March 31 and Saturday April 1 at the Hotel Las Palmeras. The fair is aimed at international prospective buyers, sellers and renters, as well as those planning to renovate or decorate properties in Spain. This will also be a great opportunity to gain

more important information about the Spanish law, taxation and the local culture. The lectures will be held in English on Saturday, with international real estate agents, builders and other housing related professionals providing services in Spain on hand to answer questions. The organizer, Espanja.Com, is the largest

Finnish media website which provides up-todate information about life in Spain, news, properties for sale and rent and a service directory. For exhibition material before and after the event, subscribe to the fair’s newsletter at www.propertyfairspain. com

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BENAHAVÍS

March 29th - April 11th 2017

Ref: OP8800

Stunning villa with great views

GOLDEN MILE

Excellent value! Elegant 4-bedroom villa within the exclusive gated community of Vega del Colorado, located in a peaceful area of the Golf Valley in Nueva Andalucía and only a short drive to Puerto Banús. 24-hour security.

Renovated 2-bedroom apartment in Ancón Sierra complex, Las Lomas del Marbella Club. 24-hr security, pools and beautiful gardens.

GOLDEN MILE

NAGÜELES

Ref: OP9711 Built: 135 m² Terrace: 67 m² Price: € 595,000

Immaculate Andalusian-style 4-bedroom home in La Carolina. Walking distance to the beach and close to Marbella centre and Puerto Banús.

Built: 299 m² Plot: 1,052 m² Price: € 1,350,000

Ref: OP8870

Charming 3-bedroom Andalusian-style villa. Sea and mountain views. Mature garden with pool. Short drive to Puerto Banús and Marbella centre.

GOLDEN MILE

Ref: OP9735

Built: 637 m² Plot: 2,750 m² Price: € 1,995,000

Built: 149 m² Plot: 1,811 m² Price: € 799,000

Ref: OP6844

5-bedroom villa with great views in Las Lomas del Marbella Club. Mature garden with pond & waterfall. 2 minutes’ drive to Puente Romano.

Built: 582 m² Plot: 1,078 m² Price: € 1,675,000

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es An International Associate of Savills

Regulated by RICS

X 24

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March 29th - April 11th 2017

World cla A Spanish architecture firm has won the coveted Pritzker prize for only the second time in history

he Pritzker - It’s an accolade desired by many but won by a select few, and up until this year, the recipients of the acclaimed award tended to be solo architects. The rewards of such a prize have been modelled on those granted to Nobel Prize winners – a $100,000 grant, formal citation certificate and a bronze medallion. In 2017, this prize will be shared by a trio of architects hailing from Girona. Their firm, RCR Architectes, the second in Spain to win it in its 39-year history. Founded by Jay A. Pritzker and his wife, Cindy who were based

MINIMALIST: (ABOVE) Bell-Illoc winery, Palamos, Girona 2003-07

SLICK: Vilartagues secondary school, Feliu de Guixols, Girona, 1995-99

in the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago, the aim of the award is to encourage more creativity within the architectural field. It makes sense, then, when you see the vast eclecticism of the work of Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem and Ramon Vilalta, that it would go to the Olot-based trio. Born in 1987, their firm, RCR Architectes’ first major recognition came in 1988 in a competition sponsored by the Spanish Ministry of Public Work and Urbanism. They won first prize for a lighthouse in Punta Aldea, after which they secured a number of commissions in Catalu-

nya. Since then they ha spread their portfolio t bouring European count Having given countless in Spain and abroad, the an international summ shop in 2011 at their Laboratory studio, a co early 20th century foun Their works range from and private spaces to and educational venues clude a winery, and sw pool. Of their win Pig "It is a great joy and a sponsibility. We are thri this year three profes who work closely togeth erything we do, are reco

Covering the entire Costa del Sol Looking for your coastal properties from Manilva to Motril costdelsol@maklarringen.se

www.maklarringen.se/spanien San Pedro Marbella Puerto Banus

Estepona Duquesa Sotogrande

Calahonda

Mediterranean Sea ESTEPONA

Avda de España 95, Pza Caparrós, 29680 Estepona Tel: 952 936 533

LA CALA DE MIJAS

La Cala de Mijas

Bulevar de La Cala, local 30 29649 Mijas Costa Tel: 952 493 235

Mäklarringen has 70 offices in Sweden and has a strong client base from the Nordic countries. With the Swedish economy booming and curre

www.theolivepress.es

MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

Covering the entire Costa del Sol

ass

XI 25

Looking for your coastal properties from Manilva to Motril costdelsol@maklarringen.se

www.maklarringen.se/spa nien Torremolinos

San Pedro Marbella Puerto Banus

Estepona

Duquesa

Calahonda

Mediterranean Sea

Sotogrande

ESTEPONA

LA CALA DE MIJAS

Avda de España 95, Pza Caparrós, 29680 Estepona Tel: 952 936 533 Mäklarringen has 70 offices in Sweden and has a strong client base from the

Bulevar de La Cala, local 30 29649 Mijas Costa Tel: 952 493 235

La Cala de Mijas

Benalmadena Malaga

Fuengirola BENALMADENA Calle Teide 3, 29639 Benalmadena Tel: 951 083 119

Nordic countries. With the Swedish economy booming and currency virtually

NERJA

Avda de Pescia 13, Edf Autosol 29780 Nerja Tel: 952 523 236

unaffected by the Brexit the client base still has stable purchasing power, in

ave since to neightries. lectures ey set up mer workr Barberi onverted ndry. m public cultural s and inwimming gem said great reilled that ssionals, her in evognised.”

Nerja

contrast to buyers from a British pound environment.

Mak-ing it big!

THEY are one of the biggest estate agents in Scandinavia. Now Swedish company Maklarringen is expanding rapidly along the Costa del Sol. Boss Thomas Malm (centre) has been busy opening new offices in Estepona, Mijas and Benalmadena in recent weeks. The team in the Estepona office (above includes a mix of nationalities, including Spanish and Finnish. “We are an ambitious company, but above all deliver in a professional and transparent fashion,” explained Malm. “We are looking for a range of properties from Motril to Manilva, largely on the coast, and have plenty of buyers already looking,” he added.

Torremolinos

Benalmadena Malaga

Fuengirola BENALMADENA Calle Teide 3, 29639 Benalmadena Tel: 951 083 119

NERJA

Avda de Pescia 13, Edf Autosol 29780 Nerja Tel: 952 523 236

Nerja

ency virtually unaffected by the Brexit the client base still has stable purchasing power, in contrast to buyers from a British pound environment.

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- April 2017 MarchMarch 29th 29th - April 11th11th 2017

Sotogrande’s longest standing estate agents have confidence abound despite Brexit

OTOGRANDE’S property market is bouncing back stronger than ever before. And Brexit will have no lasting impact on British buyers according to Ben Bateman of family-run Holmes Sotogrande, the longestrunning estate agent in the prestigious resort. The charismatic MD of the almost 40-year-old company said there are just too many great reasons to buy in the sought-after Costa del Sol paradise. “We are hugely more optimistic this year,” said Ben, 38, now head of the company set up by his father Ian Bateman in 1979. “Brexit caused a short term impact last year but the vast majority of people who were interested before still want to buy here. We’re certainly in strong recovery mode and now the market is already as good as it was in 2015. “In the long run, I don’t think there will be any impact on the market here. Brexit is a non event.

Magical

“I don’t think there will be any negative impact for British buyers; the thought of that is absolute nonsense.” The exclusive enclave’s attractions are well known throughout the high end buying market. “I know nowhere else where you can get up in the morning, drive to work along tree-lined avenues with views of the sea and go for a round of golf in the afternoon,” added Ben, who had the luck to grow up in Sotogrande. “It’s a magical, family-oriented destination which offers a fantastic outdoorsy lifestyle. “You can enjoy everything from golf, tennis and horse riding to swimming, sailing and walking, with great weather and fantastic facilities on your doorstep. “My children are thriving at Sotogrande’s International School, which offers pupils a fantastic quality of education “I can’t think of anywhere better to bring up your children on the Spanish coast. “As if that’s not enough, with 68 nationalities, it’s hugely multicultural and cosmopolitan.”

CONFIDENT: Ben Bateman (left) and senior sales consultant Antonio Aguilera

Resort on a roll

Ben’s father Ian chose to help others discover the delights of this diamond destination after a holiday to the resort. “My father was a travel agent and came here

YOU ARE SMART, SOPHISTICATED WITH ARTISTIC FLARE. MAKE YOUR HOME THAT WAY… Home & Lifestyle Magazine offers inspirational ideas available locally for your home!

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Home & Lifestyle Magazine for OP Mach17.indd 1

21/3/17 13:33

first on a golfing holiday he had arranged. “He fell in love with the place, so much that he moved here to set up the company with my mother Jackie.

“We’ve made a big impact on bringing people into Sotogrande and helping them find their dream home. “At first we focused on renting properties for golfing holidays, and property management. But since the late 80s, the business has concentrated its efforts almost exclusively in sales. “We offer everything from studio apartments from €50,000 to luxury villas worth €15m. “We know every house, street and tree and have seen Sotogrande blossom. “While some people come to us to buy their dream holiday home, more and more people are moving here permanently.” Ben credits the hard-working team at Holmes Sotogrande as the reason behind the company’s continued success. “Along with my mother and senior sales consultant Antonio Aguilera, whom I grew up with in Sotogrande, we have our admin team Susanna, Olga and Marcella, who are absolutely fundamental to our business.”

www.theolivepress.es

March 29th - April 11th 2017

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LOFT- APARTMENT IN AGRUPADAS , NUEVA ANDALUCIA 3 Beds • 2 Baths • 105 Built m2 • Terrace 17m2 • REF 176-01359P

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A fully refurbished apartment with a separate Master suite upstairs. Large living and dining room with an open plan kitchen and direct access to a lovely south east oriented terrace with beautiful garden and pool views. Ideal location close to amenities and town but still quiet and peaceful. Tastefully decorated in a Scandinavian style with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms plus cloakroom.

VILLA ON THE GOLDEN MILE, MARBELLA 5 Beds • 5 Bath • 467 Built m2 • 1.027 Plot t m2 • REF 176-01249P Beautiful villa project now finished on the Golden Mile, with high spec and contemporary design all according to the 1986 PGOU. The villa is within walking distance to the beach and promenade. All materials and fittings are of highest quality creating a luxury feel. Offered fully furnished.

Centro Comercial Plaza 63, 29660 Nueva Andalucia, Marbella Tel +34 952 816 250 • info@andadev.com • www.andadev.com

XIV 28

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MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

Is paying a deposit to an estate agent to reserve a property the next worst thing to handing over cash to a stranger in the street?

ECO-HOMES: Development on edge of Granada

Green light

A NEW eco neighbourhood is aiming to give one of Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most polluted towns an environmental showpiece. The 320-home project in the La Zubia area of south Granada will be built out of local, recycled materials and run on renewable energy. A large forest park with a network of walking and cycling trails will also be included in the 108,628m2 scheme spearheaded by the local council. Areas for allotments, recycling and composting are among other planned features for the neighbourhood. The homes, which should be completed by 2023, will be up to four storeys tall and will be a mix of rental and to-buy properties. Last December, Granada authorities were warned by the Spanish state ombudsman to tackle urban pollution in the city, which has one of the highest levels in Spain.

t's hard to think of another product quite like property. It's all about scarcity value. Every property, even in the most copyand-paste development, is unique. There's only one apartment on that floor with those views in any given building. Once it sells, there won't be another. Such scarcity can generate fear in clients that they will lose an opportunity, which is why some people are willing to pay a deposit to their agent secure a property. Paying deposits is standard practice in Spain and particularly on the Costa del Sol. The 'reservation' consists in the agent taking a property off the market for an agreed period to give the buyer, or their lawyer, time to conduct due diligence. The amount is usually around â&#x201A;Ź3,000 but can be more or less depending on the price. And the period is normally two weeks, but again, can vary subject to the buyer's, agent's, and seller's wishes. As discussed before in this column, Spain (with the exception of Catalunya, since 2010, and the Basque Country, from 2015) has no legislation in force regarding estate agents, meaning the industry and its practices are self-regulating or, in other words, essentially unregulated. If, knowing this, you still wish to pay a deposit, what kind of contract should you sign and who should you pay? And does a deposit bind the owner to sell to you? In most cases, the answer is no. To ensure any advice I give follows the let-

Money for nothing ter of law, I talked to our friendly neighbourhood lawyer, Adolfo Martos Gross of GAM Abogados, to get his expert opinion on the matter from the buyer's point of view. The first thing that buyers have to understand, Adolfo explains, is that there are two different and separate relationships at play here. One binds buyer and seller together, while the other is between the buyer and the agent, who merely acts as an intermediary to the sale. Estate agents can ask buyers to sign a reservation contract with or without the permission of the seller. If they do so with the seller's express written consent, the contract will bind the latter to the terms of the agreement. If not, buyers are only dealing with the agent and any deposit will likely be held by the agent and not the owner. Such contracts are all too common on the Costa del Sol and, I would say, are a

waste of paper for both buyer and seller. What can also happen, Adolfo notes, is that the agent may ask the seller to authorise a contract after the fact. In this case, however, the seller is under no obligation to agree to or be bound by the conditions it contains if it was signed without their prior knowledge and approval. Instead of presuming that all concerned are acting in good faith and, in the worst case scenario assuming the consequences, Adolfo suggests buyers should always demand to pay a deposit direct to the seller, via bank transfer to an account that can be proven is held in his or her name, under the terms of a contract signed by the seller personally. If buyers do decide to enter into any other kind of contract and entrust a reservation deposit to an estate agent, the possibility exists that the agreement signed and any money paid will only benefit the agent.

Terra Meridiana. 77 Calle Caridad, 29680 Estepona. Tel: +34 951 318480. Office Mob: +34 678 452109 Email: info@terrameridiana.com. http://www.terrameridiana.com

Property www.theolivepress.es

MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

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Olive Press (Property Mag) – 342mm x 256mm – 29th March

III 29

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March 29th - April 11th 2017

65.000 €

Alcala la Real

CJ356

139.500 €

Amazing value at this price. This very attractive villa with large garden is located in the centre of the charming village.

Fuente Camacho

VL558

Large 3 bed cortijo. This cortijo set in the olive groves of Las Caserias a small hamlet just 6km away from Alcala la Real.

124.950 €

Lora de Estepa

VL631

26.000 €

Martos

Wonderful picturesque Detached 4 bed Villa . In a cul-de-sac area with private gated entrance in a peaceful village.

Deceptively large 2 bed townhouse with patio and views. A 2 bed townhouse located in the popular town of Martos.

79.950 €

29.000 €

Valdepenas de Jaen

TH2896

88.000 €

Alcala la Real

TH2942

Fuente de Piedra

VL749

Single Storey property in a popular town. Famous for there flamingo lake and nature reserve this village really has a lot offer.

69.950 €

Mollina

TH3331

Large townhouse in the centre of Mollina . Just a short walk to all the local amenities shops, bars and restaurants.

TH3324

Beautiful 3 bed, 1 bath house in Valdepeñas de Jaén . A quiet and peaceful town in the mountains with around 4,500 inhabitants.

Beautiful four bedroom house, with paronamic view. In a village with a Bar /Grocery Shop and a lively community spirit.

Property www.theolivepress.es

MarchMarch 29th -29th April 11th11th 20172017 - April

Spanish Bank Valuations

13 11+

XVII 31

years experience in

ALL PROPERTY MATTERS BY CAMPBELL FERGUSON

RICS BUILDING SURVEYORS & VALUERS

For peace of mind follow

these property Why RICS accredited surveyors cannot help a client secure a surveyor loanbuying rules

e recently received a question from a potential client, which I thought might be of interest to readers. The question: I am looking to obtain a valuation on my Spanish property from a Royal Institute of Chartered Surgeons accredited surveyor to obtain a loan. However, I have been informed that surveyor loans in Spain now are based solely on low end square metres value, and not on a real value. The answer: Unfortunately, due to the requirements of the title registrars and courts, only Spanish surveyors (tasadores) can provide valuations for mortgages. RICS España has complained to Brussels regarding this restriction on trade, but, as with most EU things, it is likely to take years before there is any satisfactory conclusion. The problem with Spanish tasadores is that they are regulated by the Bank of Spain, which appears to use this regulation as part of the country's economic/banking policy. This is combined with some Spanish valuers using as comparables previous valuations by their own company, which is good for consistency, but not necessarily for accuracy. In addition, the EU is stressing that they want mortgage valuations carried out ac-

cording to Mortgage Lending Value procedure. This requires that the valuations are based on an average value over a period, rather than the current market values. Bank valuations can also be net of all sales costs, such as agents’ and lawyers’ fees, taxes and expenses, which can easily reduce the value by 10+%. All of these factors result in cautious low values. A further complication is that registered sale prices are not publicly available in Spain. Even if they were, due to the previous prevalence of under recording of the actual sale price, they would have to be taken with a very large pinch of salt. Accordingly, valuers have to value based on comparisons with asking prices for property, which are then modified to our estimate of the difference between those and the actual sale price, according to our local knowledge and contact with clients, reliable estate agents and lawyers who provide us with actual sale prices. We then have to apply our valuation expertise to provide our opinion of value of a particular property, in a particular location, at a particular time in the market. You're correct in stating that valuations are largely reported on a 'per sq metre' basis.

This is possible as, one of the advantages Property over the UK, is that by far Find the Your majority of title deeds, which can be obtained from the registrar, state the gross over-wall floor area of the property, and that the independent capiInstruct tal value (Catastral)Building is also available. Instruct Surveyor Lawyer However, these also depend upon the owner of the property declaring any alterations and/or these alterations being licensed with the local municipality. Buy with Knowledge & Confidence That does not happen in all occasions, especially for country properties. As Spanish tasadores are obliged by mortgage law to value+34 on952the basis of the de923 520 Connect with us! admin@surveyspain.com scription in the title deed, which may vary surveyspain.com significantly from the property that they find and measure, that is another reason for valuations being significantly lower than anticipated by sellers and buyers. Survey Spain will be very pleased to provide an inspection/building survey of any property you wish to acquire and also to carry out a current market valuation, which would be of assistance to you in negotiating the purchase price. However, as stated above, unfortunately it cannot be used for a mortgage valuation, no matter in which country you or the lender is based, and there is no guarantee that the bank’s valuer will produce a valuation close

Contact Campbell and the team on +34 952 923 520 or email info@surveyspain.com

VICTORY: For almost extinct village as residents return

Rising from the ashes

A RADICAL mayor is celebrating success in his campaign to save a village from extinction. Pedro de Verona has more than doubled the population of Chumillas in Cuenca from 21 to 44 in less than 10 years, while reducing the population’s mean age from 75 to 40. It is hoped his initiative, which focuses around re-opening a school and encouraging small businesses to base themselves there, could be used to help turn around the fortunes of villages also at threat from extinction in Andalucia. “It had been closed for 28 years but now there are 15 pupils at the school,” said Verona. Verona said that the encouragement of small businesses to the village was revitalising its economy without having to rely on the presence of big businesses.

2 Bedroom Apartment, Casares

PRIMROSE R E A L E S TAT E Turning your dreams into your home 2 Bed Apartment, Casares Costa

3 Bed Penthouse, Casares Costa

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY! Patio de Doña Julia – Ref 365 Price: €365,000 VIEWING RECOMMENDED!

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Casares del Sol – Ref 355 Price: €125,000

Majestic Hills – R359 Price: €345,000

This beautiful apartment in Casares del Sol is well distributed with two bedrooms, both with built in wardrobes and two bathrooms, one of which en-suite.

Spacious, bright layout with large windows and plenty of outdoor space. Large open plan lounge with dining area, the focal point being an open fire.

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3.5

M2 Built: 90 m2 Parking: 1 space

M2 Built: 150 m2 Terrace: 85 m2

Fantastic ground floor apartment with sea views and front line golf to the Doña Julia course in Casares Costa, Malaga, Costa del Sol. This 2 bed unit, originally 3 bed, has it all! It has been a well loved home with all the added extras. Large master bedroom with dressing room, two bathrooms, bright kitchen, 49m2 covered terrace with glass curtains and a private 230m2 garden!! Views to the Doña Julia golf course and beyond, frontal sea views and a sunny orientation. For storage, look no further, the property has a private 66m2 basement with a bathroom and ventilation already installed. Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

M2 Built: 160 m2 Terrace: 49 m2

Call us today to arrange a viewing!

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tel: (+34) 661 193 789 info@primrose-realestate.com www.primrose-realestate.com

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XVIII

Property

--April 2017 MarchMarch 29th 29th -29th April 11th11th 2017 March April 11th 2017

First brought to homebuyers’ attention by best-selling novelist Chris Stewart, the rooftop villages of the Alpujarras are idyllic Driving Over Lemons country

High and mighty

P Tel: +34 951 127 116 email: ventas@kingofcotton.com www.kingofcotton.com

icturesque, tranquil, quintessentially Spanish – the Alpujarras stretches languorously over Granada and Almeria provinces. Melting snow from the mountains supplies a constant trickle of water to its pastures, creating a canvas of olive, lime, avocado and forest greens. The origin of the name is debatable, but the most persuasive argument is that it derives from the Arabic phrase al-basharāt, which means ‘sierra of pastures’. It makes sense, given it lies within the Sierra Nevada and is freckled with fields of grapes and citrus fruits. And with its Andalusian location, an Arab-centric name wouldn’t be a far stretch. The Alpujarras owes its unique mini ecology to its teetering high-altitude topography. Snow-powdered peaks looming above arid foothills make its land-

Centro Comercial la Colonia, Avenida Virgen del Rocio s/n San Pedro de Alcantara, 29670 Marbella, Malaga

Trevelez

T H E KI NG HAS ARRIVED

Mainland Spain’s second highest village (after Valdelinares), perched a dizzying 1,476 metres above sea level, is renowned for its jamon serrano. The dry climate of this high altitude zone creates ideal storing conditions. And with ham hocks hanging from the ceilings of numerous bars around town, you won’t have to look far for a taste of it. The centre of the village is separated into three areas – higher, middle and lower quarters – with a river running through it. The mighty Mulhacen and Alcazaba, two of Spain’s highest mountains, are a few hours’ walk away in this popular hikers’ destination.

Albondon

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Stunning natural rural scenery combines with fascinating history in Albondon,a tiny village of just over 900 inhabitants 20km from the coast. Its narrow streets are little changed since Arab settlers made this stronghold their home, giving you a unique insight into what life must have been like in those turbulent

scapes all the more striking. Home to some of the most vertiginous villages in the whole of Spain, these 50-odd mountain eyries became Spanish Muslim strongholds in the 15th century. Cut off from nearby Granada, they were refuges for Moors fleeing from the Castilians. You can see evidence of their presence in the stone, clay-topped houses and eighth-century monuments. You can also enjoy some mesmerising natural scenery and wildlife. The area is home to the athletic cabra Hispanica, a mountain goat famous for sprinting up the mountain at tremendous speeds, as well as a variety of birds – among them the bizarre hoopoe with its feathered crown. In springtime, you’ll also be amongst more than 100 species of butterfly – be sure to bring a camera.

times. Visit during Las Fiestas de San Luis to see a recreation of the battle between Moors and the Christians, and visit the monolith dedicated to former resident and healer Ines Rodrigues.

Lanjaron Its famous mineral water is bottled and sold for nationwide consumption and its healing natural spas are said to be detox heaven. Legendary Lanjaron is a place to relax and revitalise, and you can do that at its famous town centre balneario. Known as the ‘Fountain of Health’, its five natural springs are said to aid digestion, rheumatism, respiratory problems and, unsurprisingly, stress. Fresh air, a snow-capped mountain backdrop and awesome views from the ruined Moorish castle are other reasons to linver in Lanjaron.

Torvizcón With a Mudejar-style church characteristic of the vil-

lages in the area at its epicentre, Valor is a typical whitewashed village with gorgeous views over the Guadalfeo river. The church dates back some 500 years and houses a colourful 18th-century statue. Also worth visiting is the Museo de Esparto Agustín Góngora, with its life-sized human and animal sculptures. Despite its small size, the town has various festivals taking place throughout the year such as Fiesta del Virgen del Rosario and Fiesta del Marcos, all adding to its charisma.

Mairena This village in Nevada is known as the Balcony of the Alpujarra for its stunning views over the Valle de Ugíjar and Almeria. Its 17th century Crito de la Luz parish church, lording it over the rooftops, is an impressive sight, while Piedra de los Tiempos rock which residents believe brings good luck to the harvest, is equally iconic. In January, the town comes alive for the fiesta of San Sebastian and San Antonio Abad with concerts, street theatre and fireworks.

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Amancio Ortega rakes in more than a billion euros thanks to record year in sales

ALMOST 10,000 people found jobs in Spain in February. With 9,355 fewer people being jobless, the total number of unemployed FASHION giant Inditex broke its own record in in the Download countryourfell app to now3.75 and 2016 as sales surpassed million. begin enjoying the best Spanish €23.31 billion. Some 70,080 more people news on the also signed upgo.with the The 12% increase on 2015 Social Security system as saw the Galicia-based being in work, taking the company’s profits climb 10% to €3.1 billion. total to 17,748,000. More than 50% of the sales came from Zara, just one Record of the giant’s many clothCompared to Febru- ing brands, which include ary 2016, the number of Pull&Bear, Massimo Dutti people The registered un- and Stradivarius. Oliveas Press employed in Spain has Reporting on the annual fallen by 402,110, which results in March, the comTOP for news in Spain! is a drop of 9.68% - the pany’s chairman and CEO best year-on-year reduc- Pablo Isla thanked the tion since current records group’s 160,000 employees began. based across 93 countries. Meanwhile, the country’s It was also revealed that foreign population saw Inditex founder Amancio unemployment rise by Ortega, the fourth richest 2,859 people. man in the world, made The total number of un- off with a €1.3 billion diviemployed foreign people dend thanks to the booster stands at 441,546. year. The group’s most popular outlet - Zara - is now preparing to open its biggest store in the world. Based in Madrid, the huge 6,000 square metre shop will become open to the

News IN BRIEF

‘Milestone’ agreement VODAFONE will now have access to Telefonica’s fibre-optic network where it has been has been freed of wholesale fibre access obligations. The agreement has been called a ‘milestone’ in its business strategy.

Fast recovery

Profits bonanza

public on April 7 this year. Inditex opened 279 stores around the world in 2016, bringing its total to 7,292.

Taxi strike SPANISH taxi drivers have gone on strike against Uber and Cabify. Strikers in Barcelona and Madrid have been urging authorities to protect their regulated service from the global companies which offer far cheaper prices. Barcelona saw drivers stop for 12 hours in mid-March, causing big disruptions around the airport and train stations, while thousands of drivers blocked the main artery in Madrid for a two-hour morning protest. Representatives of the main unions complained in a letter to local authorities that the liberalisation of the carhailing market undermined the cabbies' livelihood because multinationals can afford to undercut them. Uber said in a statement that it understands the concerns of drivers faced ‘with a change of the mobility system’, adding that it is open to industry talks. Cabify didn't respond to requests for comment.

March 29th - April 11th 2017

Super news

CARREFOUR has vowed to create 5,300 jobs in Spain this year. The supermarket chain said investing in youth employment will continue to be a top priority, along with a focus on digital aptitude. It says it plans to hire digital savvy employees with sales experience, client service skills and the ability to work in a team. The retailer has pledged to give 85% of its workforce an open-ended contract. By the end of 2017 it hopes to have 49,000 staff in Spain. Carrefour has already spent more than €15 million to train its staff this year, equalling some 800,000 training hours.

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It is the most successful fashion retail company on the planet, with many praising its business mod-

el, which sees it refresh its stock with the latest runway fashions every few weeks.

SPAIN’S textile industry is recovering thanks to the help of brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti and Bershka owned by Inditex. These brands, along with other clothes retailers Mango and Desigual have placed Spain high up on the list of major fashion players.

Smooth transition PRIME Minister Mariano Rajoy has backed Spain’s economy minister as a good replacement for the current head of the Eurogroup of eurozone finance ministers, who is facing calls to resign. Jeroen Dijsselbloem has been under pressure to resign since he said that European countries blew their money on ‘drinks and women.’

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Fracking hell New energy source fails to take off in Spain FRACKING has failed in Spain. All five firms who came to the country hoping to replicate the US’s shale boom over the last decade have now left. Mariano Rajoy’s PP government had fully supported the technique, which extracts gas from deep underground shale deposits, in order to reduce Spain’s near-complete dependence on hydrocarbon imports. But fracking firms have been

met with strong opposition from locals and regional authorities, scuppering hopes of an industry boom in the country. In Andalucia, the PSOE and IU banded together to pass a law that banned the controversial technique. Fracking involves injecting water, sand and chemicals at high pressure through a well in order to fracture the rock that

Popular posts MORE than 1,000 job hunters have applied to work at a huge shopping centre that is yet to be built. Around 1,200 CVs have already been sent in for posts at the Intu leisure complex in Torremolinos, according to the Asociación de Comerciantes y Empresarios. This is despite the fact the almost €600 million scheme has not yet been given approval under the town’s urban plan (PGOU). A total of 4,000 retail and leisure jobs are expected to be created through the project, with more expected in the construction sector. Candidates can register their interest on the association’s database or by visiting its office in the Palacio de Congresos.

Not so solid THE strong economic recovery in Spain is failing to reach wage earners. The latest OECD report on global growth has pointed out that poverty has increased in the country despite its solid performance. The report said: “Spain is enjoying a solid economic recovery… although poverty has also increased mainly due to the lack of quality jobs which provide enough hours of work and adequate BRUSSELS has warned of the income.” widespread use of temporary During Spain’s crisis, which contracts in Spain and their ended in 2013, wage earnnegative impact on the country’s ers lost €77 billion in salary decreases, but so far only economy. In its annual report on mac- €33 billion has been recovroeconomic imbalances, the ered. EU Commission said despite The report added: “It’s funSpain’s ‘strong’ recovery, it has damental for Spain to get not overcome the crisis’ legacy more people into the jobs and is still facing a series of chal- market, and that the advantages of growth are shared lenges. It found that Spain has one of out to a greater extent the highest rates of temporary amongst the population.” contracts in the EU, adding Construction and industry that many of them were for very were the worst hit areas, neither of which have recovshort periods. ered.

Not good enough

contains the gas and oil, which can then be extracted. It revolutionised the energy market in the US. Rajoy’s PP was hoping to tap into the €700 billion worth of gas supply underground. But without a majority in government, they have been unable block initiatives calling for a ban on the process, leading BNK, Heyco, R2 Energy, San Leon and SHESA to give up.

FRACK OFF: Spain says no to shale gas extraction

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A TRANSLATED 18th-century Spanish recipe book has won the Jane Grigson Award. Vicky Hayward, who translated the book, won the £2,000 prize for The New Art of Cooking: A Spanish Friar’s Kitchen Notebook. Originally published in 1745, the book was written by Spanish Franciscan friar Juan

Altamiras. With a new narrative added by Howard reflecting the food culture of eighteenthcentury Spain, the judges deemed the book ‘unusual’ and worthy of the respected award. “The biggest surprise was how delicious the food of an eighteenth-century Spanish monastery actually was,” said one of the

judges. The award, named after British food writer Jane Grigson and issued by the International Association of Culinary Professionals, is for first-time food and drink writers of a book that has been commissioned but not yet published. This year’s winning book will be published by Rowman & Littlefield in June.

Viva España

British funnymen coming to Andalucia in new series of comedic food tour

Oh, fancy! MARBELLA’S new gourmet market has opened to the public. Called Abastos & Viandas, the market on calle Ricardo Soriano boasts 14 different specialties. They include Sushi, Iberian ham, fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables, meats, wines, preserves, cheeses and a gluten-free products.

Energise

The market is open from Sunday to Thursdays between 12:00 and 00:00 and on Friday and Saturdays until one o’clock in the morning. The project, led and promoted by entrepreneurs Francisco Gómez Palma and Begoña Castillo, has cost more than €500,000 and hopes to energize one of the main areas of Marbella centre. There are three doors that give access to the market, from the Avenida Av. De Ricardo Soriano, from Padre Joaquín Belón Street and the opening to Calle Alonso de Bazán. There is also a cafe that serves breakfast.

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COMEDY duo Rob Brydon and Steve Coogan are back with their hit show The Trip. After touring the foodie delights of Italy and northern England, the pair, with a penchant for impressions, have filmed across Spain to check out its gastronomical hotspots. The series will include a stop-off to Malaga, where we exclusively revealed last year that the comics had filmed in the Refectorium restaurant. For the third course of their TV comedy, they are set to visit Andalucia, as well as the Basque Region, Cantabria, Aragon, Rioja and Castile La Mancha, although exact locations have been kept underwraps by producers. The six-part series will feature the duo’s alter-egos bickering, doing impressions and sampling Spain’s finest food (inDOUBLE ACT: Brydon (left and Coogan cluding manchego cheese and jamon, no doubt). “Having thought long and hard about yet another sojourn into culinary distractions and middle age, I have NEW ‘chocolate colour’ tomatoes are coming to reluctantly agreed to Eviva Spain. Espana,” Coogan revealed They will officially be launched under their new last year. name Marmande instead of their provisional UniThe last series in Italy aired co name in October. on BBC Two more than The ribbed brown variety is a collaboration bethree years ago, but Sky tween the seed company HM Clause and several companies based in Almeria and the coast of have now snapped up the Granada. popular show following Manuel Ruiz, development and promotion copopular demand for anothordinator at HM Clause, admits that the appearer series. ance of the produce may be unusual to German, The series will be shown on French and UK consumers. Sky Atlantic and will begin However he said: “When they taste it, they like it.” on April 6.

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A shooting star in Cordoba

he made history by becoming Andalucia’s first female Michelin star chef. Eleven years on and 41-year-old Celia Jimenez, who gained her stellar reputation at El Lago in Marbella, is still riding high thanks to the popularity of her eponymously-named restaurant in her home city of Cordoba. The Olive Press met up with this most modest of Michelin chefs to learn about Cordoban cuisine and how to get ahead in a male-dominated industry.

Chloe Glover meets Michelin-ranked Cordobesa chef Celia Jimenez, one of the brightest stars in Spain’s fine dining firmament

In 2006 you became the first Andalusian woman to gain a Michelin star. How did you feel when you received it? At that time in my career, getting the star was not just an honour, it was a turning point for me. Being the first Andalucian woman to get one gives me a huge sense of pride, a feeling that has stayed with me ever since.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 12.00 til 22.30 Kitchen closed 15.30 til 19.00 Sunday 12.00 til 16.00 Closed on Monday Reservations: elgarden2016@gmail.com

What is your biggest achievement in your professional career so far? Since I first started in this trade, I always dreamed of having my own restaurant. Although I have been fortunate enough to be able to put my own mark on the kitchens of the establishments where I have worked, having my own space, especially in my own city of Cordoba, is something I have long wanted. And two years ago that dream came true.

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Y R R O STAURANT FULL

RES

The first Sunday of our season saw us turning people away in our restaurant at Molino del Santo because we were coMpletely full.

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IF YOU ALREADY KNOW MOLINO DEL SANTO:

CAPTION:

Please book! Tel 952 16 71 51 or e.mail info@molinodelsanto.com

Why aren’t there more female chefs in the kitchens of Spain and the world? There are many more well-known male chefs than female chefs when it comes to haute cuisine. There are female chefs in Spain and Andalucia but many have been in charge of small family businesses. Entering the world of catering is a big sacrifice because the schedules are tough and there is a lot of weekend and holiday work, which makes it hard to balance with family life. When the time comes to start a family, women are usually more willing to make sacrifices and give up part or all of their profession, something that a man does not even consider. If a cook is going to be a father, I assure you that he does not think of leaving his profession to stay at home.

Have you encountered any obstacles during your professional career, simply because you are a woman? The truth is, no. I have always worked in very young teams, with people who come from hostelry schools where one talks of ‘kitchen professionals’ without making a distinction between whether they are male or female. Women have to prove much more to get to the same level as a man but, fortunately, I have never encountered any unpleasant situation in this traditionally macho world.

Do you believe that professional kitchens in Spain have changed their attitude to female chefs? In general, in all professional sectors, the work of women is becoming more and more evident. Little by little, women have made their way, not without difficulties, in sectors where the role of man was predominant.

What would you say to young women to encourage them to become chefs? Cooking is a profession in which you have to make a lot of sacrifices, so you have to like it. You must see it as a true vocation because everything is not as it is seen on TV, and not everyone becomes a star. You have to work a lot but if you really like it, it’s a very rewarding job because you get to see people enjoying your work, which makes all the effort behind it worthwhile.

How is your own restaurant going, what is the best thing about running your own place and what’s your next move? We are very happy with the path the restaurant is taking, as it has gone down very well with the public. Cordoba is a very traditional city in terms of cuisine and I was worried that our customers would not understand our ideas or like what we put on the table. But we needn’t have worried. Along with many customers from Cordoba, people visit us from much

IF YOU DON’T KNOW MOLINO DEL SANTO:

Come and find out why a small rural hotel and restaurant attracts so many happy customers.

further afield. The best thing about having a your own restaurant is that you can do what you want. The beginnings of a new business are always difficult because you have to find your niche but once there, you can begin to grow and evolve.

Your restaurant has shorter opening hours than others and is closed on Sundays and during August. Why? Our establishment is located inside a sports complex, also of recent creation, and in addition to the fine dining restaurant we have a snack bar and terrace where customers can enjoy a beer or an aperitif. The opening times of both spaces are designed to meet the needs of our customers, of course, but also so that our staff can have some shifts which are compatible with their personal and family lives.

BE REASSuRED by recommendations from The Daily Telegraph “One of the ten best rural hotels in Spain” The Times “Top Twenty Hotels with Restaurants in Spain” Lonely Planet Guides, Michelin and many, many more. BE REASSuRED by over 1200 reviews on Trip Advisor and knowing that 70% of our guests have been before. BE REASSuRED by a 100% no-questions-asked money back guarantee if you don’t enjoy your visit. AND PLEASE BOOK We are not full every day but we hate turning people away after they have made the effort to reach us.

Tel 952 16 71 51 or e.mail info@molinodelsanto.com

What do you like about Cordoban cuisine and what is your favourite dish? Cordoba has always been a very traditional city when it comes to eating and the recipe books are based on the sofrito. Most dishes start from this base of garlic, onion, tomato, Montilla-Moriles wine and, of course, virgin olive oil. My cuisine is contemporary but with a strong base of tradition.Gazpacho is one of my favourites.

What do you aspire to achieve for Cordoban cuisine? When I left the city I always wanted to return, to contribute something to its cuisine and to help win it the culinary reputation it deserves. I think this is something that all the city’s professional chefs are now doing.

Why did you decide to become a chef? When I was studying I worked as a waitress to make some money but never thought that I would eventually dedicate myself to the world of hospitality as a profession. I started in the dining room, and when meeting cooks, they talked about La Consula, Malaga’s famous hotel school. I began to realise that what I liked the most was cooking and that I could make it my profession.

What are your own career goals and ambitions for the gastronomic scene in Spain? In this sense I am quite humble. I simply hope to keep enjoying running my restaurant, just as I have for the last two years. It is a very personal project, the realisation of a dream. Recognition is not something that obsesses me. In the end everything comes down to making sure that your customers are satisfied and that encourages you to keep up your game.

ttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt WhY NOT STAY AT MOLINO DEL SANTO?

Why not treat yourself to a night or more in the mountains? We have 18 very comfortable rooms, a cosy sitting room with log fire, a massage service, some great walks from our doorstep and a lovely staff who will enhance your stay with their friendliness and willingness to share information about the area.

TOP S

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Read speci about a al offe r here

And, don’t tell everyone, but we will make you a special offer on our room rates for stays until the 9th April 2017. We want as many people as possible to enjoy the Molino del Santo experience. Call or e-mail us with your dates and ask for “Olive Press Special Rates.”

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Columnists

March 29th - April 11th 2017 March 29th - April 11th 2017

aybe it’s an age thing. It’s not that I’m having trouble sleeping. It’s the hours that I go to sleep and wake up that are bothering me. In my teenage years and early 20s I was renowned for being damn good in bed. I could stay under the duvet fast asleep for days at a time, only rising to make a dash to the fridge for food (I used to ransack the smoked salmon until one day I found a note on it that read ‘Leave the salmon alone. The ambassador is coming round for sandwiches later’) or grab videos – ‘Breakfast Club’,

I can’t get no sleep My days of hedonism are over ‘Blade Runner’ and ‘Animal House’ were favourites. Living in London in the late 90s the quality of my sleep depended on what day of the week it was. Monday through to Wednesday meant that I would usually

Friends forever

get my recommended eight hours, but working in the capital, with a wallet full of cash and all the distractions that a young lounge lizard like myself could possibly desire, meant that the weekend started on Thurs-

Marbella diaries B

y Natalie Ro se Kern

How The glorious Andalucia reunited me with my childhood friend

hen I was fourteen years old, I was packed off to boarding school. Kurt Cobain had just died, the grunge movement was in full swing and I’d traded ballet classes and books for rock music and ripped jeans. My mother, horrified by my new look (I’d cut and dyed my long, dark locks in an attempt to channel Courtney Love – resulting in a hideous ginger frizz!) had concluded that a school for ‘lovely young ladies’ would be my only salvation. As the car pulled up outside the imposing Victorian mansion on the first day of term, I watched with dread as immaculately groomed princesses skipped up the steps, pushy parents in tow, laden with suitcases, trinkets and teddies. I was in hell. An afternoon of frenzied fuss and commotion ensued, until finally the parents departed and I watched from my dormitory window as mine drove out of view. Fearing the other girls might witness my tearstreaked face, I clambered into my trunk where I could sob – unobserved. “Knock, knock, knock!” Anybody in there?!” came a squeaky little voice. “Anybody in there?!” The lid was lifted back and a beaming smile grinned down at me. A pretty blonde girl stood smiling mischievously, “I’m new too,” she said. “Want to go exploring?” She reached out her hand, and we were off.

Chic

NAUGHTY AND NICE: Natalie and Samm at school and as mothers today

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That was Samm. She wore long flowing skirts and rainbow-coloured clothing, and her bracelets and beads jingle-jangled everywhere we went. For the next four years we sailed the tempestuous seas of adolescence together and grew from awkward, quirky, young school girls into young women, although perhaps not quite the ‘lovely young ladies’ my mother had envisioned. Theatre school was followed by London life on the breadline: an actor’s existence of endless auditions, callbacks, agents, fringe theatre plays, walk-on parts and forgotten commercials. I danced, she sang, we razzled and dazzled until, exhausted and broke, we each set off on separate paths to discover the world. From a wooden hut in Madagascar, to an island in Cambodia, we exchanged endless emails of stories and adventures over the years, as we crossed continents in passionate pursuit of our dreams until I finally planted roots here in southern Spain and conceded that perhaps our mutual escapades were over. At the end of last year, I received an email update from Samm: “I’m moving to Spain!” she wrote. “To Coín! Is it near you?” “Is it near me?!” I could scarcely believe it; my long-lost friend was going to be living a mere thirty minutes from my front door. Samm was finally realising her dream to create a retreat for writers, poets, painters and artists of all kinds. A place to recharge and unwind, offering workshops, classes, yoga in nature, a sanctuary of relaxation and inspiration, and a magical place for

day evening. I’d sleep on the Northern line heading to my publishers on a Friday morning, safe in the knowledge that everyone else on the magazine staff was in the same condition and would be slipping away by lunchtime. My best friends were money brokers and so Friday afternoon usually became a rather hazy time of wine bars and City pubs, plus a Kings Road club or three on the way home. Saturdays meant rugby, so I’d grab my kit and head over to our club house near Richmond, play badly, drink heroically and then grab a train back. The only problem with that was that I’d fall asleep on the train, miss my stop, and wake up in Waterloo, where I would then grab a District Line train, fall asleep again, and wake up in Ealing, about 2 miles from where I started. Spain, and especially Andalucia is the land of the siesta, and when I arrived back at the end of the 90s, I knew several die hards who were able to perfectly combine a life of hectic clubbing with holding down jobs.

creativity to flourish and grow. She had found a delightful spot just outside of the village of Coín, on the banks of the Río Bajo. Last weekend saw Andalucían spring erupt in all its splendour, so we ascended the scenic, winding road from Marbella to Coín for some rejuvenation in nature. Olive and avocado groves lined the roads, orange and lemon trees blossomed and bright yellow clover covered the banks of the river – Riverheart Retreat was glorious in the March sunshine. As we lay in the grass in the late afternoon sun the golden light dancing off the ripples in the river, as the children climbed trees and swung over the banks on ropes, a game of boules in progress nearby, listening to the cacophony of birdsong, children’s laughter and a guitar strumming lazily, I knew that we had both finally found what we’d been looking for. Like the rest of us, Samm had been seduced by the magic of Andalucía – the laid-back lifestyle, long summer siestas, the sound of cicadas, stunning scenery and gorgeous climate – and as with so many of us residing here on the coast, she came had come here to make a life, not just to make a living. We gazed up at the sky naming cloud-creatures, as we used to do at school. “I’m so glad you got me out of my trunk that day,” I whispered. “Me too,” she smiled.

They’d go out until the early hours, grab an hour’s catnap, shower and go to work (mainly retail, so they could snooze in the stockroom as well) then head back for a siesta, back to work at 5pm and then out again for a night’s hedonism. It was a punishing party schedule that normally had them burnt out by the end of the summer and that I suspect might have involved something stronger than café solo, plus it founded a look that I’ll call ‘Zombie Chic.’ Living up in the campo as I now do, with my electricity coming from a sometimes temperamental generator, I tend to use a lot of candles and go to bed early. One (rather gorgeous) female friend famously brought me a head torch as a present, and that was before she’d even met me, having read the social media posts about me stumbling around the casita in the half light like a large, bearded and incredibly cranky mole. In addition to this, I also present a Saturday morning breakfast show on radio, which entails me arising at the crack of a sparrow’s fart to be in the studio by 7am. This also tends to set the pattern for early rising through the week, so when I find myself awake at 6am on a weekday morning, with even the cat looking at me bleary eyed, I’m struck with the sage observation that...I’m now getting up when I used to get in.

Health

www.theolivepress.es

March 29th - April 11th 2017 March 29th - April 11th 2017

45 45

Sperm like med diet

SPERM quality can be improved by sticking to a typical Mediterranean diet. Spanish scientists have discovered that fish, seafood, poultry, cereals, vegetables and fruits,

47-stone man dies at home A MORBIDLY obese Sevilla man died as firemen tried to remove him from his house with a crane. The 25-year-old, who weighed 47 stone, was too big to get down the hall in his apartment block after he suddenly became ill.

Firemen

Paramedics who arrived to take him to hospital had to call fireman when they realised it would require heavy lifting machinery. The unnamed man died a couple of hours after emergency services were first called. His body was removed by firemen via his balcony in San Juan de Aznalfarache near Sevilla. Town Hall chiefs agreed to pay for his funeral after it emerged his family were poverty stricken and could not afford it. Doctors said he died of natural causes linked to his obesity. According to World Health Organisation figures, some 22.8% of Spanish men are obese, while among Spanish women the figure is higher at 24.7%.

low-fat dairy and skimmed milk are associated with high sperm quality. Diets rich in processed meat, soy foods, potatoes, full-fat dairy and total dairy products, cheese, coffee, alcohol, sugar-sweetened bev-

Bread alert! ‘Deadly’ white bread to blame for ruining Med diet

A MALAGA nutrition expert has slammed white bread and the ‘American diet’ for being the biggest causes of Spain’s obesity problems. Miguel Angel MartinezGonzalez, who is an honorary scholar at Harvard University, said young people have mixed the healthy Mediterranean diet with typically American foods, particularly ‘too much processed red meat.’ “I’m not saying we have to become vegetarians, but there is scientific evidence to suggest that there is a drastic reduction in death from heart disease and cancer if we replace ani-

mal proteins with vegetable proteins,” he said. “The Mediterranean diet, meaning extra virgin olive oil,

erages and sweets were associated with lower-quality sperm. The research, carried out by the Universitat Rovira I Virgili and the Pere i Virgili Health Research Institute, shows that diet can affect the quality of a man’s sperm.

HAPPY: Ibanez

Worth it A 64-YEAR-OLD Spaniard who gave birth to twins in February has said the controversial process has been ‘worth it’. Mauricia Ibanez sparked debate over age limits for fertility treatment when she produced Gabriel and his twin sister Maria de la Cruz in a private hospital in northern Spain. AMERICAN DIET: Slammed by Martinez

nuts, fruit, vegetables and pulses, is the best option. If you have to eat animal protein, it is better to eat fish than meat, and it is better to eat rabbit or poultry than red meat.” Speaking to El Pais, Martinez-Gonz a l e z added

OBESE: White bread turns into sugar

that bread is a real problem. “White bread is one of the most serious problems in Spain,” he said, “Most people eat it and even stuff themselves with it. “The public needs to know that it is basically starch and our bodies are extremely efficient in turning starch into sugar. It’s like consuming glucose. “It’s deadly,” he added, “we must eat less bread and when we we do, make it whole grain bread.” A quarter of Spaniards are obese, despite the country’s diet being touted as one of the world’s most healthy.

Anger

The babies, delivered by Cesarean section, came after the mother’s previous child was taken away by social services in Castilla y Leon in 2014 for poor hygiene and social issues. Authorities felt she was not being taken care of by the mother. Locals reacted with anger to hear that the sexuagenarian was giving birth to more children following fertility treatment in the US. But Ibanez has said she sees the anger she received as a ‘gift’. “It’s been worth it,” she said, “the mistakes, the anger, the uncertainty… They are a gift. They’re a miracle.”

Macular Degeneration

The leading cause of severe sight loss for over 55s in the western world

SAVING LIVE: 920 liver transplants in 20 years

Transplant landmark

THE Hospital Regional in Malaga has performed almost 1,000 liver transplants since its programme began in 1997. The programme saw its first transplant 20 years ago on March 14, and it has performed the life-saving procedure on 920 others since. The hospital commemorated the anniversary with a special conference, entitled Liver Transplants: Yesterday and Today, discussing how the performance and technique of the surgery has improved over the years.

n alarming case of unregulated stem cell treatment for macular degeneration in the US went wrong recently, causing blindness and leading to increased interest in the disease. What is macular degeneration? Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative retinal eye disease that causes progressive loss of central vision. It affects the macula, the part of the retina that enables our most acute and detailed vision for tasks such as reading, driving, recognising faces and watching television. Is there anything that makes you more likely to get it? According to the World Health Organisation the only established modifiable risk factor is smoking. People who smoke more than double their risk of developing AMD. Apart from quitting smoking, can you do anything to prevent it? Various studies indicate a link between eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-

carotene and vitamins C and E in reduced risk of macular degeneration. Experts believe they can have a positive effect as they work to neutralise potentially cell-damaging molecules called ‘free radicals’ which are thought to harm the eye’s lens and macular. What are the treatment options? The stem cell treatment we mentioned earlier is experimental and has not been FDA approved, so is

risky. But there are other approved options such as anti-angiogenic drugs, laser therapy and surgery. The earlier you get a diagnosis of AMD, the greater the chance that treatment will help, so make sure you visit the optician every year if you’re over 65 and that your eye test includes testing for AMD. Specsavers Opticas are currently offering free eye tests. Visit www. specsavers.es to find your nearest store and book.

Education

www.theolivepress.es

March 29th - April 11th 2017 March 29th - April 11th 2017

Eraxit

Reach for the stars

MUCH-LOVED student exchange programme Erasmus is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a cloud over its head. The future of the European programme, which has helped nine million people study abroad since 1987, is in doubt due to Brexit. Estimates suggest there are one million ‘Erasmus babies’, the offspring of students who met through the programme. As hard Brexit unravels, it has not yet been decided whether the UK will leave the programme, in which it is the third most popular destination for European students. Exchanges up to 2019 will stay in place, but it is not known what will happen thereafter. Ruth Sinclair-Jones, Director of the Erasmus+ UK National Agency, said “The number one priority should be to try to make sure that the UK can stay fully participating in Erasmus+, because of the benefits to everyone, not just the UK. “But if that’s not possible, I would absolutely want an alternative scheme to be in place, so that the next generation of UK young people don’t miss out on the benefits of international engagement with their counterparts in Europe.”

A MARBELLA student has been crowned the highest achiever in Spain. Sirine Chetouane of Aloha College gained the award thanks to the high marks she obtained in a Cambridge IGCSE Foreign Language French exam. She was one of the international school’s three pupils who gained an Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award based on re-

Real Madrid opens school for poor kids in London

LONDON’s budding Cristiano Ronaldos now have a chance to achieve their dream after Real Madrid opened its first UK soccer school. Club legend Emilio Butragueño officially opened the school with London mayor Sadiq Khan in the borough of Croydon. The Real Madrid Foundation - the club’s charitable arm - already runs similar institutions around the world, but the link with the local Cedars School will be the first of its kind in the UK. The foundation’s spokesman said: “The aim of the project is to support children and young people by offering them activities to develop their skills, both in sports and relational and social integration.” The place of learning, which can be attended by 8 to 11 year olds, is targeted at south London youths who are eco-

Cool school CHAMPIONS: Real Madrid football team

17 YEARS

OF PORTRAYING MARBELLA’S BEST

® essential marbella magazine W W W. E S S E N T I A L M A G A Z I N E . C O M

sults. Principal Elizabeth Batchelor said: “The awards recognised the talent, dedication and commitment of both learners and staff. “I am extremely proud of these hardworking students, whose success reflects the truly international nature of our school.”

Social attack

LEGEND: Emilio nomically or socially disadvantaged. The project is a partnership between the Foundation, The Cedars and Football for Unity, a non-profit pro-football organisation, with the support of the Kinetic Foundation, a Croydon sports charity that was set up in the wake of the London riots that rocked the city in 2011. Real Madrid are the most successful team in Champions League history, and work with more than 50,000 people in 75 countries.

NATIONAL police are investigating after video footage of a 12-year-old Estepona schoolgirl being beaten up appeared online. The footage circulated on social media, and was even sent to the girl’s mother via the messaging service Whatsapp. Filmed at the IES Monterroso school, the footage shows a group of schoolchildren knock the girl to the ground before taunting and humiliating her. She gets hit hard by another student while others can be seen and heard laughing in the clip, but Spanish law means the identified suspects are too young to be prosecuted.

sport

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HEAVEN: For cyclists

Wheely good

March 29th - April 11th 2017

4747

March 29th - April 11th 2017

Cool running

Devoted young fan dodges two security guards as he storms pitch to meet football hero AN avid young fan showed impressive footwork when he stormed Spain’s training pitch to meet his hero Alvaro Morata in Madrid. The young boy, named Beltran, ran right past one security guard with an impressive speed. He then ran across half of the pitch before being met by another heavy-set security guard who also failed to catch him. He managed to get past with a classic side step that Ronaldhino would have been proud of. After making his way past the likes of David De Gea and Sergio Bus-

AN ambitious project hopes to turn the Costa del Sol into a cycling paradise. Bicycle Sleep is the brainchild of the area’s Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Costa del Sol, which wants to highlight safe routes and itineraries to help more cyclists train or enjoy a two-wheeled holiday in the area. It is also putting together an online database which includes details of cyclist friendly accommodation and eateries. The association believes that the costa is ideal for cyclists due to the good, all year around weather conditions. “Cycle tourism could have grand benefits for the Costa del Sol,” said Diego López, of the mancomunidad. “We are talking about a sustainable and friendly type of tourism based on sport which can be enjoyed all year around by both professional cyclists and cycle tourists.”

quets, he was seen making a beeline towards Real Madrid’s Morata and giving him a hug. More security tried to usher the boy away, but Morata was seen embracing him and allowing him to stay. The striker signed the young fan’s Spain football shirt, writing: “For my friend Beltran, with all my love.” Footage of the incident has gone viral, with hundreds of thousands of views on Facebook and Youtube. Spain are currently top of Group G in the race for the World Cup 2018 in Russia.

BOLTER: Young fan dodges security

Marathon man A LEGENDARY septuagenarian ultra distance runner has taken on the desert in a bold new challenge. Cartama’s Francisco Contreras Padilla, known as Super Paco, raced 45km in the FalcoDesert race in Morocco. The 78-year-old braved high temperatures, winds and a lack of shade to complete the gruelling course.

WINNER: Luis Merayo

Star jump

AN ESTEPONA athlete has been crowned best high jumper in the world. Luis Merayo jumped 1.72 metres to win the best veteran title at the World Masters Indoor Championships in South Korea. The Estepona TV presenter beat contestants from across the world in the contest, trouncing his nearest rival, Ken Amano, by six centimentres. It is the latest accolade for Merayo, who also practices long jump around his hectic TV schedule at the town hall.

ROYAL FAN: Juan Carlos in Manchester

Man of the match

A FORMER king had a right royal time at an English Premier League match. Ex-king of Spain Juan Carlos was spotted enjoying himself with Manchester City chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak at his team’s clash with Liverpool at the Etihad stadium in Manchester. Ferrán Soriano, the chief executive of the team, was also at the king’s side in a box during the tough game, which ended with a 1-1 draw. It is the second time in recent years that Carlos, 79, has visited the stadium, following a trip in 2014 shortly after abdicating the throne

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See you latex

FINAL WORDS

LOCAL prostitutes complained over rubber sex doll brothel for unfair competition. Luckily for them, the landlord cancelled the lease, just as the city announced its unlicensed status.

advice

Locked up ENGLAND and Wales have the highest prison populations in western Europe. There are 148.3 people per 100,000 in jail in the two UK countries, compared with 137.9 in Spain.

Tropics del Sol REDLINE marketing company has opened a new jungle-themed office in the Costa del Sol, and are inviting guests to celebrate its launch with drinks and canapes. The company specialise in graphic design, social media and development.

Vol. 11 Issue 262

www.theolivepress.es

March 29th - April 11th 2017

WINNER: Odile bowled through the competition

Jerez parrot wins fans thanks to his huge repertoire A SMUGGLED parrot has become a national star due to his popstar credentials. Rufino, a grey African loro who was brought into the country illegally 25 years ago, has won accolades for his large repertoire of songs and enviable dance moves. Based in Jerez, his performances bring a smile everyday to the face of his owner, Manuel Saldana, who says he begins from the moment he wakes up until he goes to sleep. Among his tunes are the Spanish national anthem, football club songs El Canto de Barcelona and Xerez Deportivo, as well as, curiously, the Partido Popular’s campaign anthem. “Each morning he sings the national anthem while his blind is raised while dancing before asking ‘are we going to eat now?’,” said Saldana. “My dad was a Barcelona supporter and my mother taught

Bowled over by Odile! SHE is anything but your average-looking bowling star. But 22-year-old Odile Foletti has become quite a sensation at Benavista Bowls Club. Odile has been crowned Most Improved Player of the Year. She has only been bowling for eight months at the club, where her parents Bixio and Marie are also members.

Squawk Factor him Jerez’s song to offset that. He started singing PP’s song because of my sister’s old boyfriend,” said Saldana. “He also dances to everything, including Iron Maiden. He

Relax.. Jacks got it covered

FRANCE - ITALY - PORTUGAL

Not made up! THE ‘Made in Germany’ label is the most respected in the world. According to the annual Made in Country Index, Made in Spain came in 20th, while the UK came in fourth. Incredibly, the EU came in third, according to a survey of 40,000 global consumers.

nods his head like he’s head banging.” Rufino, who is believed to be around 40-years-old, is likely to broaden his act, given that he could live until he is 90.

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