Olive Press Newspaper - Issue 133 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

EASTER INDEED, AS OLIVE PRESS FINALLY REACHES ALL CENT EDITORIAL AND NO SEX ADS! UP AGAIN WITHHAPPY 31,000 PAPERS OVER 56WITH PAGES - BUT STILL 50 PER EIGHT ANDALUCIA PROVINCES 30,000 PAPERS PRINTED

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Vol. 6 Issue 133

New mayor is a wife beater

CONVICTED: Amate A ROW has broken out after the PP party backed a mayor who has been convicted of domestic violence. Rival socialists insisted it showed ‘zero respect for Turn to Page 7

Fresh fears over Spain bail out

See Page 43

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April 19 - May 02, 2012

Expat convinced that a UFO sighting led to 5am military jet drama over Costa del Sol

A COSTA ENCOUNTER A BRITISH expat is convinced she saw a UFO hovering above the Costa del Sol. Mary Ann Whyte Wood, 61, a retired company

Maddie hunt in Nerja POLICE are investigating a possible sighting of missing Maddie McCann in Nerja almost five years after she disappeared. It comes after officers in Portugal received a tip-off regarding a little girl with a ‘strong physical resemblance’ seen in the town. It is one of a number of sightings in the Axarquia region since the British toddler (above) disappeared from the Algarve in 2007. Portuguese detectives, who only launched a ‘cold case review’ a month ago, sent an email request for help to their Spanish counterparts last week. Turn to Page 5

EXCLUSIVE by James Bryce and Wendy Williams

director from Berkshire, saw what she described as a large, gold, cigar-shaped object. She believes it was the reason three Spanish fighter jets - and a helicopter were scrambled in the area in the middle of the night over Easter. She told the Olive Press the ‘spooky’ object had a kite-shaped sheet below it which pulsed with red and green flashing lights. She insisted it hovered for around three to four minutes before disappearing in the blink of an eye. “I was gobsmacked,” the widow, who lives in Benahavis, explained. “My son-in-law is a senior commercial pilot and my daughter is training to be one so I know what a plane looks and sounds like, but I’m at a loss to explain what it was.” Clearly startled by the incident, she continued: “It

sounded like a huge industrial tumble dryer, I have searched on the internet but I can’t find anything that looks even remotely similar.” Her neighbour Alison Woods, who is married to a former RAF engineer, confirmed the strange incident. “I heard something very strange that night, that really was not a normal plane,” she said.

Spooky

“Curiously my husband saw something that matched the same description while he was serving in Cyprus in the 1990s. “He reported it to the airbase but they said there was nothing on the radar. “Of course, he was made a laughing stock the following day but he is convinced that what he saw can’t be Turn to Page 2

X-PAT FILES: Mary Ann Whyte Wood

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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The Olive Press - Number One for crime and investigations

Wind farm folly EXCLUSIVE by James Bryce

A PAIR of British expats have filed a denuncia after losing thousands of euros in an apparent investment scam. Brothers Malcolm, 66, and Ken Nall, 68, invested 6,000 euros in a French

Expats lose 6,000 euros in bogus green investment scam wind farm scheme through a Marbella-based finance company last year. Sold as a reliable three-year bond, they were promised an annual return of 9.5 per cent on their investment

through firm Finance Energy. However, alarm bells started to ring after they failed to get their first payment on March 4. “When we called the com-

Marbs attack From Page 1

explained,” she added. The sighting came at 5am on Easter Sunday at the same time loud fighter jets – probably Eurofighters caused panic among expats along the coast. Hundreds of people called and emailed the Olive Press to enquire about the incident. DJ Maurice Boland, from iTalk FM, was one of the first on the phone on the Sunday morning. “It was frightening, I thought something was going to crash into my house,” he said.

“My grandchildren were crying, the dogs were going mad and I could see lights going on in houses all over the place.” Many insisted that as well as the planes and a helicopter, there was clearly something else flying around. While their motive remains unclear, one expat James Harnetty, 30, from London, claims the jets appeared to be searching for something. “The jet I saw was definitely after something, or trying to protect the coast. “It looked like a Eurofighter and I could hear a helicopter

pany, there was no reply,” Malcolm told the Olive Press. “They have apparently taken our money and vanished.” He added: “It’s a lot of money for us because we’re pensioners.” The pair, from the Midlands, have failed to locate representative Gary Oliver, who sold them the scheme. They insist the police don’t seem interested and they are being ‘passed from pillar to post’. “It annoys me to think we’ve been ripped off and the police don’t seem bothered,” Malcolm added. “Clearly we were naïve, but we hope noone else gets caught out.”

Disconnected

SEARCH: Witness James Harnetty in the area as well,” added the health shop owner. Police in Marbella said: “We have been contacted by many worried citizens, we have only been able to find out that the flights had authorisation, but we don’t know any more.” Police in Estepona also confirmed they had received a large number of calls but admitted they were equally baffled.

Worried

A spokesman for Malaga Airport’s operations centre was guarded, adding: “We are unable to comment.” A spokesman for nearby Gibraltar Airport said that it was unaware of any such activity as Gibraltar air space - which is only open from 8am-9pm - was closed. But finally a spokesman from the Spanish Air Force said a Spanish Eurofighter jet had been scrambled from Moron to intercept an unidentified plane flying without lights or a flight plan. “We do not know what exactly the plane was doing as we were unable to locate it, but the most probable explanation is it was a plane from Morocco carrying drugs.” But residents remain sceptical given the cost to mount such an operation. Reader Richard Jones added: “I am not convinced. I cannot understand why the Spanish media are not mentioning this. This incident woke up thousands of people on the coast and caused a lot of stress and worry.”

When the Olive Press attempted to contact Finance Energy, both numbers were disconnected, while the website www.fin-energy. com is no longer in use. Craig Edmonds, from 123 Marbella Internet Services, which manages the site, said: “Legally I am not able to disclose any details of customers or comment on activities, but I have forwarded your email to the current owner.” Firms who solicit investment funds must be authorised by the Spanish CNMV. A search of the regulatory body’s company register revealed no trace of Finance Energy.

FIREBUG FIGHTBACK IT has taken an incredible 12 years for justice to prevail. But a Malaga man has finally been given six months in prison and ordered to pay 1.5 million euros in compensation for causing a fire that razed a large area of Estepona and Casares in 2000. The blaze – that destroyed 176 hectares - began when the man ordered workmen to cut through metal tubes with a chainsaw while trying to repair an electricity pylon. Many expats had to be evacuated and one Briton’s home was completely destroyed. Meanwhile, in Nerja a 60-year-old retired Guardia Civil officer has been arrested for starting a dozen fires around Maro and Cerro Gordo in October 2011.

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

MOLOTOV BLOW INTO CASARES Quo’s Rick in film debut ART TRIP: Cruz and Bardem

A very Freudian visit to London THEY are probably two subjects that Lucian Freud would have loved to have painted. So it is fitting that Spanish stars Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem have taken a bit of downtime to visit a huge retrospective of his work in London. The high profile couple left their baby at home to visit the late artist’s show at the National Portrait Gallery. “They stayed for ages, wearing headphones and listening intently to the audio guide,” said a fellow exhibition goer. A few nights earlier the pair were snapped leaving fancy 34 restaurant in Mayfair after a double date with director Ridley Scott and his partner Giannina Facio. Bardem has been in London filming the new Bond film Skyfall.

FUSION SOUND: Molotov and (right) singer Tena as Tonks in Harry Potter BRITISH band Molotov Jukebox have been shooting their latest video on the Costa del Sol. The London band, featuring Harry Potter actress/singer Natalia Tena, shot the moody video in Casares.

The 27-year-old, who appeared in the Harry Potter films as Nymphadora Tonks, was born to Spanish parents and is fluent in the language. The six piece group have a sound encompassing ska, house and flamenco.

LOCAL rock star Rick Parfitt is to star in a film based on the adventures of his group Status Quo. The legend, who lives in Alhaurin el Grande, is joining bandmate Francis Rossi to shoot the film Bula Quo! in Fiji. The action caper will feature 12 of the band’s songs and also stars former Eastenders actor Craig Fairbrass. Parfitt, 63, said: “Once I found out that we weren’t going to be shooting anywhere cold, I was all for it.”

SNATCH (part II) EXCLUSIVE by Eloise Horsfield

A SENSATIONAL new film is being planned on the dramatic kidnap of a five-yearold expat on the Costa del Sol 25 years ago. The movie – with could star British actor Vinnie Jones – tells the story of the incredible rescue of Melodie Nakachian, who was snatched at gunpoint on her way to school. Written by expat Paul Grimshaw – who is about to shoot another gangster flick Shill, also starring Jones – it will recall the kidnap, which became international news in 1987. It happened as terrified Melodie was dragged at gunpoint from her car on

Vinnie Jones could star in new hit film about five-yearold expat kidnapped on the Costa del Sol 25 years ago

ORDEAL: Melodie poses with a paper during the kidnap, Aloha college where she was snatched and parents Raymond and Kimera her way to Aloha College, in Marbella. An agonising three days later, Melodie’s father –

rich Lebanese businessman Raymond Nakachian – received a call from one of the kidnappers.

Hardman Vinnie is Costa-bound HARDMAN Vinnie Jones is heading to Marbella to star in an exciting role as a twisted killer. The British actor and ex-footballer – who was once given a yellow card after just three seconds on the pitch – will play a lead in gangster movie Shill, to be filmed entirely on the ‘Costa del Crime’. Jones plays Branch, a guitar-playing nutter who chokes victims with his strings. Under the logo ‘It’s cool to be cruel’, the actors will meet investors at Marbella’s Film Festival in October this year, with filming set for March 2013. “We’ll be filming over a six-week period which will be a chance for some real starspotting,” said writer Paul Grimshaw, who has worked as an estate agent in Marbella for 20 years. The film – also likely to star Tom Hardy – focuses on the profits that can be made from so-called ‘shill bidding’ – a type of online fraud. NUTTER: Jones will play role of Branch, who chokes victims

The distressed father was told that if he wanted to see his daughter alive, he would have to cough up 1.5 million pesetas in cash (the equivalent of nine million euros today). Nakachian, constantly pursued by the police and media, negotiated with the French Moroccan kidnappers to bring the ransom sum down, pleading for proof his daughter was alive. The kidnappers responded with photos of the tot clutching the day’s newspaper, and chillingly, locks of her dark hair and voice recordings. Meanwhile Melodie’s distressed mother, a south Korean singer known as Kimera, released an appeal, transmitted on TV across Europe. After setting a date for the handover one of the kidnappers made an unthinkably stupid mistake while out jogging on the beach. Clumsily, he dropped his

wallet which was later picked up by a passer-by and handed to police. Inside were details including the girl’s name, a draft of the ransom note and – crucially – details of where she was being held. Finally, 12 days after she was abducted, a dawn raid involving 100 police rescued Melodie from the kidnapper’s hideout in nearby San Roque.

Discussions

“Don’t cry, Mummy, I’m all right,” Melodie reportedly told her mother as her father brought her home, ending her terrifying ordeal. The story is being developed by scriptwriter Grimshaw, 45, from Cheshire. Now based in Calahonda, he is working closely with the family, who still live on the Costa del Sol, in Benahavis. “I’ve been in a lot of discussions with them and have met Melodie,” he said. “It will make a great film and Vinnie’s manager says he is very interested. “The energy behind Shill has given us a platform to develop the idea of bringing the story of Melodie back to life,” he added.

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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HAPPY: Edith and daughter Deborah A BRITISH mother and daughter have been reunited in Spain for the first time in nearly 40 years. Expat Edith Roberts, 73, and Deborah Emery, 50, met in Malaga after finally getting back in touch on Boxing Day last year. It came after Edith, who lives in Fuengirola, received a call out of the blue from an unknown grandaughter. She was delighted to hear the news that her daughter

Found at last After a 40-year gap, expat finally meets her long-lost daughter

being released from hospital but was denied access to her children – a boy and a girl – after missing a crucial court date. She later learned her husband had remarried and the children had been taken into care and moved to separate foster homes. For the next three decades she simply lost touch with them, eventually moving to Spain, with current husband Peter Roberts, 75. “Then out of the blue we received a telephone call from a lady in Australia announcing she believed she was my wife’s granddaughter,” explained husband Peter. A reunion was arranged and her daughter flew to Malaga from her home in Channel 5 study proposal to back a TOWIE-style show to the Costa del Sol Wiltshire. “They had found us years ago through the property register and traced us as far as our house in Bournemouth but by that time we had moved to Spain. “It took them another few years to find us here.” He continued: “Both sides had practically WANNABES: Moore, Alexandra, Harmer and Tennant given up all hope but then something A DISGRUNTLED TV EXCLUSIVE clicked. writer, who claims that ITV by Eloise Horsfield nicked his idea for hit show The Only Way is Essex ‘will score where other realEmotional (TOWIE), is planning to get ity shows fail’, claimed an “It has been very his own back. Olive Press source. long winded but it is Brian Belo – who has “It will have sun, sea and lots a heart warming and launched a 4.8 million law- of sexy action with bikini emotional story. suit against makers Lime babes and hunks in trunks,” “My wife was very Pictures – hopes to launch he added. nervous about the his own similar fly-on-the- The Olive Press understands meeting as when the wall show based entirly in Channel 5 are in discussions children were taken Marbella. with Belo, despite officially into care it was all Belo, who won Big Brother denying it. very messy and her in 2007, is rumoured to have Belo, from Basildon in Essex, husband was a cruel drafted in a Miss Great Brit- says he originally pitched man. ain, Rachael Tennant, a for- a show called Totally Es“The children were mer Big Brother star Amy sex, with the same format as too young to know Alexandra and Essex model TOWIE, to TV bosses. what happened but Victoria Moore. His original pitch even feait has all worked out It could also feature a dis- tured the then-unknown well in the end and graced Korean stem-cell re- TOWIE characters Mark they had a few happy searcher, as well as a profes- Wright and Amy Childs. days together.” sional David Beckham loo- The move comes just weeks Edith is now also hopkalike, Andy Harmer, who after TV bosses confirmed a ing to make contact lives locally. Marbella special for TOWIE, with her long lost son. The show Marbella Beach to be filmed this June. EXCLUSIVE by Wendy Williams was safe and living in England. She had tragically lost touch with her daughter in the 1970s when her former husband applied for a divorce and took sole custody of the children. It came after he had allegedly beaten her up and put her in hospital. She fought for custody after

THE REAL MARBS

From Page 1

Maddie hunt in Nerja

Officers in the Specialist and Violent Crime Unit (UDEV) - the same unit investigating the disappearance of children Ruth, six, and Jose Breton, two, who vanished from a Cordoba park last October – are leading the investigation. Residents in the Axarquia were stunned by the news, but remain sceptical that it will lead to anything. “I’m sure if there was any truth in it we would have heard about it by now,” said Linda Rowe at food shop Arkwrights. As the Olive Press revealed two months ago another sighting was reported to po-

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lice by Yvonne Tunnicliffe who claims to have spotted Maddie in a Mercadona store in Alhaurin el Grande, just 20 miles away. “I’m certain it was Madeleine, I wouldn’t even say I’m 99 per cent sure, I’m 100 per cent sure,” she said. Madeleine was just days short of her fourth birthday when she vanished from Praia da Luz on May 3, 2007 as her parents ate in a nearby tapas bar. Officers in Portugal are going over thousands of pages of case files in a search for new clues. The McCanns’ Portuguese lawyer Rogerio Alves insists this is a ‘very positive sign’.

News IN BRIEF Doggy delight Dog rescue charity ADANA has reported a successful financial year and an increase in dog adoptions, at its AGM.

Noah’s park Selwo Adventure Park in Estepona has some new additions with the arrival of a pair of hippos and hyenas.

Knife arrest A 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of killing a 43-yearold man found dead with a knife wound in Antequera.

Crafty deal A new craft market is set to be held on the first Saturday of each month in Arroyo de la Miel’s Plaza de Espana.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

OPINION OPINION

Wife beater disgrace IT is absolutely mindboggling that a man who was convicted of violence against women should be allowed to hold a position of responsibility like a mayor. The PP should be ashamed that it has appointed Francisco Jose Amate in Enix, a move which sends out completely the wrong message and makes a mockery of both the role in public office and what is a very serious crime. One of the main problems associated with domestic violence is that it often goes unheard, with many victims simply too afraid to speak out. What message does it send when a wife beater becomes a mayor with the full support of the national PP party?It is an absolute disgrace.

Green shoots of employment IT is heart-warming to hear that in cash-strapped Spain, one lucky person will get to earn 2,000 euros a month simply for watching the grass grow. In a country which has 23 per cent unemployed, it can only be good news that job opportunities are sprouting up in the most surprising of places. Even if it is only for the month of May, the Olive Press is sure whoever gets the job of ‘grass guard’ at a Madrid park will make the very best of their unexpected career move. Let’s just hope the post goes to one of the country’s youngsters, for whom the unemployment rate soars to a shocking 50 per cent. If so, the problem might be that he – or she - would invite all his or her mates over for a so-called ‘mega botellon’ on the brand new lawn.

Growing influence They sometimes say that less is more, but that certainly isn’t the case with the Olive Press. As demand for advertising space has continued to grow, so has our pagination, in a bid to avoid compromising on the amount of quality editorial content we offer our readers each issue. The Olive Press has long prided itself on dedicating at least 50 per cent of its pages to editorial, compared to just 20 per cent in some of our rivals, done in order to drop its prices on advertising. Our latest issue is a bumper 56-page offering, which is now available in all eight provinces of Andalucia – with a full list on page 4. Further proof if it were needed of the widening reach and influence of the original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Spain.

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A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 150,000 copies distributed monthly (90,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 450,000 people a month. Design and page layout: Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: Jackie McAngus B91664029 jackie@theolivepress.es Urb Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon Admin/advertising sales: 13, Arriate 29350 Malaga Pauline Olivera Printed by Corporación de admin@theolivepress.es Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es News Editor: Wendy Williams 689646049 wendy@theolivepress.es Reporters: James Bryce james@theolivepress.es and Eloise Horsfield eloise@theolivepress.es Distribution: 951 166 060

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COMMENT

N the last few weeks the Spanish media has been full of the miraculous tale of a five-year-old daughter who saved her mother’s life with a hug. It came after the girl’s mother was attacked by her husband with a knife in the family home near Valencia. Having witnessed the row, the child, Trini hugged her mother round the neck to stop the attack which by chance also stemmed the bleeding of a neck wound that later needed 27 stitches. Trini had inadvertently saved her mother’s life and the aggressor has thankfully now been arrested and faces a long prison sentence. However it was not the first time that her husband had attacked his wife. It emerged she had tried several times to leave him, but always went back. She has no job, cannot pay the rent, and has six children in her charge. Sadly, her story is not all that uncommon. Every week at least one woman dies at the hands of her partner in Spain. Last year, 840,000 Spanish children witnessed violence against their mothers. Most shockingly, only a quarter of the women who end up being murdered by their partners ever report their attacker for abusive behaviour. There are often a number of reasons behind this but the silence that surrounds this abuse is one of the things that makes it harder to combat. In a speech made in 2001, a representative from the Spanish Women’s Institute insisted: “The women who report this violence will have gone through an extremely anxious process. “There is a terrible conflict between staying quiet, so as not to lose their livelihood and social status, and speaking out, which will mean starting afresh, where their dependence on the attacker will be replaced by a heavy dependence on social welfare.” Every year thousands of women stay in abusive relationships in Spain, many because they believe they simply have nowhere else to go. Fortunately, in recent years

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Never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable

But despite full-scale government drive, domestic violence is still a big issue in Spain, discovers Wendy Williams there has been a marked increase in awareness of the problem leading to more public concern. But it has not stemmed the tide, and flies in the face of government efforts to tackle the ugly blight. Around 400,000 women in Spain are estimated to be suffering abuse from their partners, and 1.5 million have been victims of domestic violence at some time in their lives.

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Part of the problem is the image of women in Spanish society in general. Spain is the country that coined the word ‘machismo’ — male chauvinism — and has long held a reputation as an ultraconservative and maledominated society. When other parts of Europe and the United States were witnessing the height of the sexual revolution, Spain was just emerging from a 40-yearlong dictatorship and a legal

system that did not recognise rights for women. Older generations of Spaniards can still recall life under General Franco, when woman were not allowed to open a bank account, apply for a passport or even sign a contract without a husband’s permission. During this time domestic violence was dismissed as a ‘crime of passion’ and the standard response was to turn the other cheek. It was not until the 1980s that Spanish women actually gained rights and even then society was slow to catch on. It took something drastic for gender violence to really burst into the public’s awareness. It came in 1997 when a 60-year-old woman named Ana Orantes appeared on television and spoke candidly of decades of brutal beatings she had suffered at the hands of her husband. She had tried in vain to get a restraining order despite dozens of complaints to the police and eventually decided to go public. But just days after the show was aired Orantes was killed by her husband who doused her with petrol and set her alight. The incident quite rightly shocked the nation into doing something. And six years later, the new socialist government made tackling violence against women a priority. Upon taking office in 2004, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero launched a crusade against domestic violence stating that it was Spain’s ‘worst shame’ and an ‘unacceptable evil.’

www.theolivepress.es FREE HELPLINE FOR VICTIMS

Spain has a free national women’s helpline, 016, available 24 hours a day for women, and their children, affected by violence. It offers multilingual counselling in many languages. Since it was launched in September 2007 it has received 307,715 calls. He appointed equal numbers of men and women to his cabinet, rules restricting divorce and abortion were loosened and crucially Spain overhauled its laws to make it easier for victims of gender violence to seek legal redress. Yet, despite these advances the problem of gender violence is not going away. Since the country began compiling statistics in 2003 it has recorded 605 deaths from domestic violence.

80 per cent of young Spaniards agree a woman should satisfy a man’s desires In what has since become known as ‘Black Tuesday,’ four women were actually killed by their partners on the same day in 2008. Figures reveal 60 women died at the hands of their partners in Spain in 2011. This marks a slight drop from 2010 when 73 women died —

COMMENT

roughly one every five days. This year, the figure is expected to be around the same, which is thankfully lower than back in the UK where it is estimated around two women die every week from domestic violence. Meanwhile, countless more are continuing to live with violence. “Fatalities are sadly only the tip of the iceberg in terms of how much violence actually takes place, and never even gets denounced,” explains Teresa Cavanna, a lawyer specialising in domestic violence and family issues. “Changing laws does not solve the problem of malfunctioning courts,” she adds, “nor does it change overnight attitudes in a society where the macho ideology is still firmly anchored and in which many judges have not come to accept how serious a problem domestic violence is.” In fact a survey carried out last year revealed that 80 per cent of young people in Spain agree that it is reasonable to expect a woman to satisfy a man’s desires. And 1.4 per cent of Spaniards still believe domestic violence is justified in certain situations.

Moreover the problem is not limited to Spain. According to a report published by the Council of Europe in March 2010, domestic violence is on the rise in all levels of society in the developed world. It is a problem that will not go away over night. But according to Inmaculada Montalban from the Gender Violence Observatory: ‘education is the vaccine against violence.’ If enough light is shone on the issue people will begin to take note and attitudes will change. One thing is for sure, as stated by Ban Ki- Moon, UN Secretary- General: “There is one universal truth, applicable to all countries, cultures and communities: violence against women is never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable.”

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

From Page 1

Disgrace women’ after the Conservatives backed new mayor of the Almeria town Enix Francisco Jose Amate. Amate was given a suspended sentenced of two years behind bars and a two year ban from office for attacking a female victim in 2007. Now Isabel Haro, the PSOE’s Secretary for Equal Opportunities, said the decision to appoint him shows ‘a lack of scruples,’ and highlights the contradiction between the official PP stance on violence and their actions. “How are women going to feel if they need to report domestic violence to the town hall, if their own mayor has been convicted?” she asked.

Expat faces prison for killing abusive husband A BRITISH woman, who was the victim of domestic abuse, has been found guilty of murdering her husband following an argument in their home in Benalmadena. The prosecutor claims that Michelle C stabbed her husband in the collarbone with a kitchen knife in 2010 with the intention of ‘stamping out his life.’ The prosecutor is now calling for an eight-year prison sentence despite the woman claiming her husband subjected her to abuse for 18 years. She insisted he had run into her as she tried to escape with the brandished the kitchen knife.

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

NEWS

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Ready for the circus

CHILDREN at the British School of Marbella swapped their school uniforms for circus outfits during a special day of learning last Friday (April 13). Youngsters dressed as lions, clowns and ringmasters and tried a number of circus related activities such as juggling. They were also shown some magic tricks after Pom Pom the clown made a special appearance at the school. The Wow Day is designed to ignite the children’s interest in this term’s topic, which is all about the circus.

Brit dies in plane crash A BRITISH man has died in a plane crash in Velez Malaga during his first ever flight as a pilot. Luis Rivera, 35, was killed instantly after his plane was caught in a gust of wind on his second attempt at landing. Rivera, who was born

English teacher did not kill herself

British girlfriend watches her lover die during flying class By Eloise Horsfield

to Spanish parents who moved to the UK, had hired a plane from One Air

Aviation school with his girlfriend. The pair had taken twohour lessons to be followed by ‘baptism flights’ – which Rivera’s girlfriend had just completed successfully. She was watching as the unthinkable happened and her boyfriend lost control of his two-seater Tecnam plane.

FORENSIC evidence shows that an English teacher who was found dead in a suitcase in 2010 could not have killed herself. A court in Sevilla has heard that it was ‘impossible’ that American Laura Cerna (above) took her own life. Neighbour Antonio Gordillo, the man accused of murdering her, had claimed the teacher tried to stab him with a knife but fatally wounded herself in the process. He claims he was then panicked into cutting up her body and dumping it in the Guadalquivir River. Gordillo only confessed to the murder when police found blood in his apartment. The trial continues in Sevilla.

Winds

It crashed into the ground killing Rivera and his flying instructor, Spaniard Francisco Javier Gomez. “It wasn’t the best day to fly,” insisted professional pilot Vicente Barbara who witnessed the incident. The accident is being blamed on high winds and a full investigation has been launched by the Spanish Civil Aviation Authority.

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

NEWS

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Royals under fire

King Juan Carlos urged to stand down from WWF role after being caught hunting elephants in Botswana

THE Spanish Royal family has come under fire after King Juan Carlos fractured his hip during an ‘unnecessary and expensive’ elephant-hunting trip to Botswana. The monarch has faced fierce criticism after he spent more than the HUNTER: The King during a 2006 trip average Spaniard’s salary on one luxury trip. In particular he has been criticised for spending up to A COSTLY private airport used by Prince Harry on a hunting trip 45,000 euros on has closed after just three years in operation. a hunting break An investigation has been launched after 1.1 billion euro Ciudad when he is an honReal airport was forced to close. orary president of It had hoped to welcome 2.5 million passengers over five years the WWF. after opening in December 2008. But just 407 jets took off or While a spokesman landed there between October 2011 and February 2012. at Moncloa palSince Vueling withdrew in December the only planes using the ace insisted it was airport have been private. a private holiday with no cost to the public purse, there is growing unease that the trip showed ‘bad taste’. Spain’s IU boss Cayo Lara was enfuriated, saying: “He’s clearly not losing any sleep over the fact that thousands of young people are unemployed, while he goes off to Africa to hunt elephants.” Expat wildlife guide Eva Monika Bratek added: “The fact that he is killing African animals instead of promoting safaris is simply unthinkable.

White elephant airport shuts

Damage

“The King might want to help his image by spending his money on sustainable activities which would help his own country’s economy in difficult times.” Boss of Spain’s WWF Juan Carlos del Olmo was also forced to comment on calls for his resignation. “We are deeply sensitive to the serious damage this outcry is causing to our credibility, particularly over the protection of elephants and other species,” he said. Elephants are endangered in many countries but are shot legally for sport in some African countries, including Botswana. The holiday only became public after the king fell down some steps during the night and broke his hip in three places. See A spot of feudal fun on page 38

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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In the 1990s stockmarkets appeared to be heading ever upwards and everyone wanted a piece of the action. The Bank of England base rate ranged between 5% and 14%. Banks were considered a safe place for your money. It was easy to hide money away offshore. Since then we’ve had bear markets, the credit crunch and economic downturn. Bank interest rates plummeted to record lows. Established banks collapsed. And now we have the Euro crisis and austerity measures. All this brought renewed emphasis on wealth preservation, and an increasing understanding of the need for diversification within investment portfolios. It is important to, with the help of a wealth manager, devise a strategy across your portfolio that employs asset allocation and diversification to lower risk and which is based on your specific objectives. We have also been faced with the global crackdown on offshore banking. Banking secrecy is fast being consigned to history. In 2005 the EU Savings Tax Directive shook up the offshore tax planning world. Globally, the Organisation

for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) initiatives, backed by the G20, have made it possible for authorities to investigate tax fraud across country borders. With governments now in more desperate need for tax revenue we will see more of this. To make matters worse, taxes are now on the rise across Europe, including here in Spain, as governments try to repair their deficits.

The impact of taxation on savings income and investment growth has become a bigger issue. What matters, after all, are after-tax returns. Your wealth management strategies require both investment expertise and tax expertise. With the complex world we find ourselves in today, wealth management advice is more important than ever before. A wealth manager will review your current financial planning and advise on how to protect and grow your wealth; legitimately mitigate the amount of tax you pay and control when and where you pay it; protect your investments from institutional failure and ensure your wealth will be distributed on your death according to your wishes and with as little inheritance tax as possible. One wealth management solution that can form an integral part of the solutions to the above is life assurance. A life assurance bond can be used as a “tax wrapper” around your choice of investment assets, allowing you to combine your investment and tax planning in one arrangement. These bonds are approved in many European countries including Spain and can allow you to significantly lower your tax liabilities in a fully legitimate manner. It is no wonder that the insurance bond is fast becoming the wealth management tool of the 21st century. Ask an experienced wealth manager like Blevins Franks for advice on your situation and investment and tax planning objectives.

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NEWS

My good life on the run

AN ex-councillor who faces prison in the ongoing Malaya corruption trial has been spotted in Indonesia four years after going on the run. Javier Lendinez, who allegedly collected 18,000 euros from Juan Antonio Roca, vanished in December 2008 when he should have started a nine month prison sentence for real estate irregularities. There had been no word until newspaper La Opinion de Malaga received a ‘recent’ photo of him supposedly in a LIVING IT UP: Lendinez (right) with friend restaurant on the island of Java.

Tempting tourists By James Bryce

IT is certainly a novel way to attract visitors. Tourists visiting Manilva will be able to stay at four of the town’s main hotels for

Manilva comes up with cut price 10 euro deal to attract visitors just 10 euros per night this weekend. Special 10 euro menus have also been made available at

It’s as simple as ABC

DO you have a business looking to build bridges on the coast? Andalucia Business Connections (ABC) will hold an open evening this Thursday (April 19) at Miraflores Golf Club to introduce you to members. Contact 951 101 767 or email admin@abcgroupspain.com for more info.

15 restaurants throughout the town. Businesses from Manilva and Sabinillas, including shops, hairdressers and sports centres are also playing their part in the town hall initiative. The project on April 20 22 has been launched to promote the resort, which claims to have the ‘charm of a white town’ as well as a ‘magnificent’ church.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

GIBRALTAR NEWS

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Gib war on drugs

A GIBRALTAR car dealer is to play a key role in the global battle against drug trafficking after landing a lucrative contract with the US Government. Africa Automotive Distribu-

Fishy business THE row between the Gibraltar Government and Spanish fishermen has escalated after a breakdown in talks. The Government says it is willing to continue dialogue in an effort to avert ‘dangerous and counterproductive’ confrontations at sea. But representatives of the fishermen insist they will continue to fish in Gibraltar waters ‘with or without the Government’s approval’. “Despite the break up of discussions, the Government remains willing to engage the Spanish fishermen,” said a government spokesman.

tion Services (AADS) will supply a fleet of specially designed Jeeps to combat drug cartels in Central and South America. It is hoped the deal - estimated to be worth around nine million pounds in the first year alone - will help increase Gibraltar’s presence worldwide.

Humanitarian

“This is the kind of international exposure that portrays a positive image for Gibraltar abroad,” said AADS manager George Bassadone Jr. “It will help to put Gibraltar on the map on a global scale.” A senior US military spokesman confirmed the equipment would form ‘an essential element of our land strategy in Central America’. The company is a subsidiary of Bassadone Automotive Group, best known for supplying 4x4s to the UN as well as humanitarian and NGO groups around the world.

Nuptial knowledge BRIDES-to-be looking for inspiration for their big day have the chance to speak to industry experts at a fantastic wedding workshop on the Rock next week. ‘How to Get Hitched Without a Hitch’ will be held at the Eliott Hotel on April 26 from 4.30pm to 9.30pm. The fair will give couples an opportunity to listen to advice on all aspects of their wedding and honeymoon from specialists including photographers, lawyers and party entertainers. Tickets are £15 in advance / £20 on the door. For more information visit www.medweddingsexpress.com or call 0034 679 951 204.

www.theolivepress.es EXCLUSIVE by Eloise Horsfield POLICE believe an arsonist may have started two house fires in the space of just two weeks. It comes after one Gibraltar resident slammed the housing authorities after squatters apparently caused a fire that burnt down his home. Police confirmed they were investigating the possiblity of arson, after James Rae’s flat was completely gutted during an early morning blaze last month. A spokesman for the Royal Gibraltar Police Emilio Acris confirmed: “We are treating the fire as suspected arson.” He added: “We are investigating a possible link between the fire and another on March 16 in the same area, for which two people have been charged.” Rae, 42, originally from Bournemouth, is angry that the fire occurred after the authorities failed to act when squatters apparently moved into his block. The DJ and barber insists he reported seeing candles and hearing noises coming from a neighbouring flat. However, nothing was done. The Castle Ramp resident, who is being temporarily housed in a local hotel, slammed the Gibraltar

GIBRALTAR NEWS

Arson probe Police investigate crime link after expat’s home is burnt down and possibly looted

LIVID: James Rae Housing Ministry for how it has dealt with his case. In particularly, he is furious it failed to secure the property after the fire, despite police insistence. “When I went round later the window grill was still hanging off and I’m sure it had been looted,” he said.

His girlfriend Kate Gooding, 44, who works for TRE radio station, added: “The whole thing is horrific. James has lost everything, all his worldly possessions.” She also slammed the general state of the Castle Ramp area, where several flats are being squatted. “It’s disgusting,” said Kate. “The area is going to wrack and ruin and it is easy for squatters to get in because the houses aren’t boarded up properly. “I’ve seen people coming up James’ staircase who look like they are on heroin and a dead body was even found recently,” she said. Gibraltar Housing Ministry was unavailable for comment.

Gib IN BRIEF Nappy news CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo is a dad for the first time after wife Justine gave birth to a baby boy on Sunday.

Bucking trend The Royal Gibraltar Regiment has begun a two week detachment guarding Buckingham Palace for only the second time in its history.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

AXARQUIA NEWS

Owners of La Tartana (right) vow ‘losers will be winners’ after fierce Channel 4 show trouncing, in which a hotel in Antequera won By Eloise Horsfield A BRITISH hotelier was left feeling ‘hurt’ by harsh feedback in a reality TV show. However, Amanda Filmer (pictured right), who runs La Tartana with husband Jed, insisted she would bounce back after coming last in the Four in a Bed

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We’ll bounce back competition on Channel 4. “It shouldn’t have been personal but I took it as a personal affront,” Amanda told the Olive Press. “But since then I have received so much support from all over the place. “People are incensed by it and I know we were hard done by.

“In total we have had 150 emails of support and we will bounce back. “Sometimes the losers become winners.” After welcoming three sets of fellow B&B owners to their hotel in La Herradura, the couple paid a visit to each of their guests’ hotels in Antequera, Benidorm

Cheerful Chilches

HILCHES is not easy to find. This small village, situated between Benajarafe and Rincon de la Victoria, is about 12km from Malaga. There is a beach, but the village itself is inland, just over the motorway and up in the hills. Once there, the 17th century church of Immaculate Conception that sits proudly

and Murcia. Contestants gave scores on various elements of their stay – then paid what they thought the experience was worth. “When I read the feedback, I have to say I felt hurt,” said Amanda, whose guests only agreed to cough up 77 per cent of the total bill for the rooms. “We really tried to make it good,” added Jed. In particular they received

Sally Harrison takes us on a tour of a mainly Spanish village in the Plaza de Constitution, next to the deputy mayor’s office, is worth a visit. Since the streets around it are quite narrow, it is probably best to park further away and take a stroll up through the village. Chilches used to have two towers, but around 1492 they were divided between noblemen who had fought in conquest of Granada – among them the Marquis Garci Fernandez Manrique and the Count Manrique de Lara. During one of the battles, the inland tower was destroyed,

COASTAL CHARM: The village of Chilches

leaving just the coastal one which we can see today. Chilches playa is a long stretch of beach with very little on it except a small lawned area with palm trees and a lifeguard’s lookout tower. There are a couple of good seafood restaurants and a kiosk selling ice-cream and drinks. In summer the beach is filled with Spaniards vacationing and sitting in the shade under their gazebo tents or multi-coloured parasols. It is a lively scene, and the smell of fresh fish cooking lures you in from the road. For the energetic the beach is excellent for running, or just taking a stroll with the sea lapping at your ankles. If you want to walk your dog, make sure you do it very early in the morning and take plenty of plastic pooper scooper bags. www.axarquiaproperties.com

severe feedback from bizarre fellow contender transexual Julia, who runs a budget B&B, in Benidorm. “I don’t like all these fluffy cushions,” said Julia on entering her room, adding that the 117-euro price tag had ‘mortified’ her. The critical woman (previously a man) also complained that the breakfast sausages were ‘too meaty.’ The winning hotel was Vista del Torcal near Antequera, whose owners Anna and Ben were given 98 per cent of the normal room fees they charge. Ironically the couple returned to La Tartana a week after winning to celebrate their anniversary. “At least one couple loved it here,” added Amanda.

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AXARQUIA NEWS

Rubbish idea! Knight

PROUD: Kitt with owner Soto

Nerja residents forced to cough up for waste collection to help pay town hall debt HOUSEHOLDS in Nerja are outraged at the prospect of a three euro per

Axarquia IN BRIEF

Super new THE Axarquia’s tenth Mercadona supermarket is to be built in Algarrobo, creating 30 jobs in the area.

TV village THE first episode of a new TV series focusing on the lives of locals is being filmed in Frigiliana. It will be aired on TVE in the spring.

month rubbish tax. Set to be charged from 2013, the fee is being introduced by the cashstrapped PP town hall – whose debt reached 4.8 million euros in 2011. It is hoped the new tax will generate 540,000 euros annually.

Promises Finance councillor Antonio Villaclaras said he had ‘no choice’, reasoning that the tax was substantially lower than what other town halls in the Axarquia charge. Opposition parties have criticised the move, saying Mayor Jose Albert Armijo has broken his election promises. They say that he previously undertook to freeze taxes and rates.

Rider

‘KNIGHT Rider’ has arrived in Velez Malaga – or at least petrolhead Jose Antonio Soto has. The mechanic has bought one of the original Pontiacs used in the 80s TV series starring David Hasselhoff, after spying it in a London museum. ‘Kitt’ is available to rent for special events.

Night rowdy

A NOISY nightclub which generated 30 complaints in one weekend has been fined 2,400 euros by Velez Town Hall. The venue, in Plazamar in Torre del Mar, stayed open too late – with revellers gathering outside at 5am. Locals had hoped it would be closed. They will now appeal.

Come and see us at THE LIVING ON THE COAST SHOW

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

Come and see us at THE LIVING ON THE COAST SHOW

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FEATURE

Live life to the full Don’t miss the exciting new Living On The Coast event next weekend IT is full steam ahead for an exciting new family lifestyle event in Marbella this month. Living On the Coast is being launched by the organisers of the highly successful Over 50s Show. Taking place at Marbella’s exhibition centre the event – which is totally free – will feature an attractive mix of displays, presentations and demonstrations. Aimed at the widest possible audience, these will include cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and gardening advice. There will also be bridge, golf and bowling lessons, as well as dance, kick boxing and yoga demonstrations, and a ‘kidszone’ fea-

turing games. There will be an art exhibition as well as a five-a-side football tournament organised by Atletico Las Chapas who promise that some well-known professional players will be making appearances.

Successful

Organiser John Low told the Olive Press: ‘While we have run the hugely successful Over 50s Show for the past four years, there has not been a general lifestyle event for years. “With our proven track record we felt it was time to rectify that and offer residents an event with the widest possible appeal.”

ACTIVE: Yoga and kick boxing demonstrations

Living On the Coast takes place from April 27 to 29 at Marbella’s Palacio de Exposiones y Congresos. Friday 2pm until 7pm, Saturday/ Sunday 12 noon until 7pm. Admission is free. Contact 902 003 896 for more info or visit www.livingonthecoast.es or email info@slp.ie

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 73.55 per cent full - Same week last year: 87.93 per cent - Same week in 2002: 61.11 per cent AIRPORTS Gibraltar 00350 22073026 Granada-Jaen 958 245 200 Jerez - 956 150 000 Malaga - 952 048 844* *For English press 9 Sevilla - 954 449 000 EMERGENCIES Police 091 Guardia Civil 062 Medical service 061 Fire 080 EURO EXCHANGE RATES 1 euro is worth 1.3148 American Dollars 0.8248 British Pounds 1.3068 Canadian Dollars 7.4386 Danish Kroner 10.204 H Kong Dollars 7.5990 Norwegian Kroner 1.6382 Singapore Dollars

LETTERS

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Naked exploitation Dear Olive Press,

Test your hip

HAVE any of you recently visited the beautiful dunes - and nature area - at Cabopino Beach? I class myself as a broad minded individual with a live and let live motto. However unfortunately some people have turned the freedom of nudity into a perverse party which I find offensive, grotesque, and threatening. I’m sure it is also illegal. On a daily basis we are confronted by people who think it’s ok to pleasure themselves next to families and sunbathers alike! I’m convinced if I was to leave my dog’s mess on the ground I would be fined, so why is this exploitation of a nudist beach acceptable? I’m sure I’m speaking for lots of Cabopino locals when I say this cannot be good for tourism. Frankly it’s disgusting.

I am a consultant orthopaedic surgeon and I have been reading the article regarding the recall of the hip replacement prosthesis with a metal-on-metal surface (issue 130). The article talks about possible ‘blood poisoning’ caused by the metal debris which is absolutely right, and is why Johnston & Johnston have called all patients with this type of hip prosthesis to have medical tests to find any problems. The problem only appears in large metal on metal surfacing prosthesis, and apparently only in the model with a femoral stem. But it is recommended that everyone who has undergone a hip prosthetic surgery with a metal on metal surface should have a blood test and an ultrasonic scan of the hip. The MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Image) as recommended in your article by Dr. R Prats would not show anything as the pictures would be disturbed

Jayne Redfern, Cabopino ED: This certainly does not sound good form

by the presence of the metal implant. If the tests reveal a possible problem and the patient has symptoms or pain in that hip a revision surgery of that prosthesis would be indicated. Dr. Alf Neuhaus, Clinica Sandalf

recently had TV and satellite internet installed both of which are working perfectly and in no way do we feel ripped off. Neither Steve nor the installer, were anything other than efficient and polite. In the interest of fairness and balance I hope you will publish this. Jean Leftwick, Alhaurin el Grande

Not the MIDAS Simply touch pointless If you are with MIDAS telecom or are thinking of using MIDAS telecom, be advised. The company has recently been exposed in Germany using false numbers resulting in many customers being double charged. Keep away from using them. Tony Liddicoat, Germany

LEA Letters S W should RIT E E be posted to Urb. Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon 13, Arriate 29350, Malaga or emailed to letters@ theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided. Published opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

Regarding the recruitment drive by the Catholic Church (issue 132): They should do away with this celibacy nonsense, let priests marry and have kids like any mortal and watch the applications flood in. Naturally, this would include women. It’s idiotic to stop women from taking up equally pointless occupations as men. It’s a decent earner after all.

Stefanjo, via the Olive Press website

A let down I read your issue 132 and enjoyed it. I thought how well it compared to the other English newspapers around here and then there was the headline ‘Piss Poor’ on the back page in Final Words. Such a let down. In bad taste and unnecessary. Debra Murray ED: Yes it sadly slipped in.

ED: If anyone in Spain has been a victim of MIDAS telecom then contact us at news desk@theolivepress.es

Gibraltar in brief Here are some comments regarding the Gibraltar stories in Issue 132: 1. The Spanish Government has not accused Gibraltar of keeping the coins but of Odyssey not declaring them. 2. Gibraltar has draconian laws on tobacco purchasing and movement and those mentioned (Gib Nibs 132) are just a couple of the many that have recently fallen foul of the law. 3. Spain has been opposing Gibraltar’s membership of UEFA quite successfully even after UEFA was ordered by the International Court of Arbitration for Sport to admit Gibraltar. It should have happened in this year’s AGM but has been postponed, again, to 2013. C. Rosado, Gibraltar

Not a rip off Just to say that I am really amazed at the article regarding Costafreesat. We

Road to disaster I read with interest the many thought provoking articles that your paper carries and recall that Maximillian Bartie had a pop at the confusing speed limit signs on the A-7 motorway tunnels between Nerja and Almunecar. I was very pleased when this section of road was opened but was disappointed to see in the Almunecar tunnels, the presence of two vehicle lay-bys in each direction with a vertical concrete wall at the end. My first reaction was of horror, as a civil engineering consultant and more latterly as a safety consultant; the presence of these structures is contrary to safe working practice. Unfortunately the inevitable recently happened when 28 people were killed after a coach hit the very same structure in a tunnel in Switzerland. The question has to be asked of the road authority in Spain, what is proposed to prevent a similar crash especially as traffic levels will rise when the A-7 motorway is completed. Already the results of collisions can be seen on the tunnel walls. The road authority should be actively considering remedial measures, but are they even aware I wonder? John Greenwood, Almunecar

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ll about

April 19 2012

stepona

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A 16-page Olive Press special supplement

Whitevillageon-sea

Estepona has found the perfect balance between modern tourism and maintaining its Spanish identity, discovers James Bryce

ANDERING the narrow streets of Estepona’s old town during siesta time provides the greatest clue to its enduring Spanishness. While many other towns along the Costa del Sol have adopted northern European working hours in a bid to satisfy the hoards of tourists, it is still largely adhered to in Estepona. The only signs of life in the deserted back alleys of the old town were the occasional cat and the odd hushed conversation coming from behind shuttered windows. With the white-washed houses bedecked in window boxes bursting with vividly coloured flowers, I could easily have been in one of the celebrated pueblos blancos further inland. Enjoying a coffee in the shade of an orange tree in a pretty plaza, I realised just how much more gradual the town’s development had been compared to the rest of the coast. One long-term expatriate resident Sonia Longman, 67, explained how in the 1950s there was practically nothing in Estepona apart from a smelly fish factory, where supermarket Carrefour is today. “When we used to get a taxi from our home in Torremolinos to Gibraltar I remember my mum giving us hankies with cologne as we passed to mask the smell of the glue made from fish oil,” she recalls. Longman and her sister, who later moved there and have run the local English bookshop Longmans for decades, started life in the town working on Spanish newspaper, Sol de Espana. Working under the tutelage of Lord Cowley, who was a direct descendant of the Duke of Wellington, they were given the job of producing an English page within the paper every day. “We always liked to push the boundaries and even once got Turn to Page 22

PICTURE POSTCARD PRETTY: Snapshot in the Old Town and the nearby beaches (inset)

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From Page 21

reported to the Bishop of Malaga for using a photograph of a sexy girl in a bikini climbing a tree. “It was in the days of dictator Franco and the editor was summoned to Malaga to receive a dressing down from the Bishop,” she continues. “He got such a ticking off that we were forced to fill all the middle bits of every shot of women in bikinis with black felt pen so it looked like they had bathing suits on!” She also remembers how - after moving to the town in the 1960s - her sister’s donkey was ‘towed away’ by the local police for eating flowers in the main square. “It was taken to the slaughterhouse and my sister had to literally beg the fat local policeman to give her a lift there to rescue it just in time.” How things have changed. In line with the growth of most of the Costa del Sol, the town and its surrounding area has become a magnet for property developers, estate agents, golfers, professional footballers and celebrities. The marina now holds berths for over 250 yachts and the town boasts around 25,000 people residing there all year round.

Nautical but nice

PART PACKAGE HOLIDAY, PART UPMARKET RESORT: Marina (left) and a window in town

A distant cousin of its more affluent neighbour, Marbella, and situated 40kms from

Gibraltar, the town is part upmarket tourism and part package holiday resort.

But, what one really notices about Estepona is the fact that it remains resolutely a Spanish town, conserving much of its old part, that is in every way as attractive as Marbella. “It has a distinct Spanish flavour,” explains local shopowner Hugh Thompson, from stylish furniture and antique shop Retro. Fellow expat Gwilym Rhys Jones, from internet/computer company Surweb agrees. “It has never lost its soul like some Costa towns,” he says. Originally given the title of Estebbuna by the Romans, the town is littered with historic monuments from old Phoenician and Roman burial

grounds to splendid castles. Built on the old Roman road now the paseo, the town was destroyed by the conquering Christians in the 15th century and rebuilt by Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand a century later. In 1729 Philip V granted the town a charter for 600 families and the town has continued its growth to this day. The old monuments are still very much in evidence from the scattering of watchtowers warding off the Moorish invaders to the Arab-built clock tower and the 16th century castle ruins, which are worth a visit. The best is the old Franciscan monastery which is now the Church of our Lady of Redemption. If you ask nicely you may still be allowed to walk to the top of the tower and enjoy the

Solid as a rock

HEY are actually rather difficult to miss. But it is worth keeping your eyes peeled for a series of massive sculptures by Scottish artist Toby Govan around the town. Having lived in Estepona since he was seven – his parents were both artists - it is perhaps fitting, that the sculptor has recently lent the town five of his works. The sculptures, weighing up to 2,500 kilos, are made out of stone and white marble from nearby Ojen, can be found in a number of places. Here, Mothers are Unique is to be found outside Estepona’s Casa de la Cultura.

vista of the whole town and mountains inland. Modern Estepona still maintains its ancient ambience and does not seem overwhelmingly saturated with foreign investment. Unlike, say, Fuengirola and its fish alley, there are only a handful of English bars in the old town and along the paseo. Local Spanish bars take precedence and there is plenty of good tapas to be had at very cheap prices.

Sun worshippers often have enough room to draw up volleyball courts in the sand The town also boasts one of the best beaches on the coast, the Playa de la Rada, which won a prestigious EC blue flag in 2009. Lining this golden stretch of coastline are a number of well known chiringuitos that have been established since the mid sixties. In the summer, those in the know will flock to this beach ahead of its mainstream counterparts down the road in Marbella. As holidaymakers fight to grab some limited towel space in Puerto Banus, Estepona’s sun worshippers often have enough space to draw up their own volleyball courts in the sand. Others, such as expat Pauline Olivera prefer the ‘secret beach’ Playa del Cristo, just up the coast. “It is one of the only unspoilt little bays left on the coast,” she says. “It is so nice I chose to get married there.” However, not only is the town great for sun-seekers but it

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Estepona special

ANCIENT AND MODERN: Fishermen and an old doorway (inset)

HAPPY MIX: Expats Rhys Jones, Hugh and Sue Thompson from Retro and Sonia Longman also serves up a storm for fans of quality sea food. Even now, dozens of small fishing boats leave the calm waters in the early hours, coming back laden with their catches. Back in the olden days the

place had a fabulous restaurant called the Yellow Book. This alternative hangout was based around the notorious drawings of one local artist which had to be censored for their explicit content. While they didn’t leave any-

thing to the imagination, famous guests included Michael Parkinson, Jimmy Tarbuck, Ronnie Corbett and the late Frank Carson, who had a house near the marina. If you are celebrity-spotting today, keep your eyes peeled for the much-loved Cilla Black who occasionally pops over, as well as Spain’s highestpaid matador Jose Tomas, who lives in the town with his girlfriend and young baby, born in November. Even wrinkly rocker Rod Stewart used to live a few minutes drive away, up on the Casares road, where you will find a series of spectacular restaurants. These days, however, you are more likely to bump into footballers trying to improve their handicap on a golfing break at El Paraiso or Valle Romano. Either way, thankfully much of Estepona’s old remnants remain intact, as a stroll through the old town confirms. Just don’t go wandering too far as it may just bring you back into modern times.

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CAPTION:

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Estepona special

HIS easy circuit leads to the highest point of the Sierra Bermeja nature reserve, known as the Pico Reales. Standing just eight kilometres inland from Estepona, this mighty vermilion massif rises to 1450m - that’s not far off the height of Ben Nevis! From its antennae-topped peak there’s a dizzy, panoramic vista of a huge slice of Andalucia: north to the Sierra de las Nieves, east to the Sierra de Ojen, west to the Alcornocales Natural Park and south to Gibraltar and Africa. And to add to that, the walk goes through the Pinsapar de los Reales, home to one of the few existing stands of the uniquely beautiful pine, Abies Pinsapo Boix. This botanical jewel is only found in half a dozen places in the world. Furthermore, there’s a second great viewing point on the walk, the Mirador de Salvador Guerrero, which entails a short diversion but which is well worth the extra effort. And the drive up to the starting point is something of an adventure in its own right. To reach the trail head you’ll need to follow a snaking mountain road inland from the town for about 20 minutes. But that’s all part of the fun.

Getting to the beginning of the walk

From Estepona take the MA8301 towards Jubrique (it begins next to the Mercadona supermarket on the north side of the town) for 15kms to the top of the pass, Puerto de Peñas Blancas. Here turn left past a sign for Los Reales, pass a green barrier then continue for 2.75kms to

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ROCKY Walking guru Guy HunterWatts heads out on Estepona’s most exciting hike - the ascent of Pico Reales

GAINING HEIGHT: Mediterranean pines replace pinsapos a signboard to the right of the road marking the beginning of the Pinsapo walk, Paseo de Los Pinsapos.

The walk

From the signboard Paseo de los Pinsapos head down a narrow, rocky path which drops away from the road into

DENSE: The forest path is a walk through nature

the pinsapo forest. 75m after crossing a small concrete bridge you reach a junction. Cut left following a sign Los Realillos/Los Reales 2.2kms. The path leads past a signboard about pinsapo pines then on past a ceramic sign of a poem by Lorca inspired by trees. The path climbs steeply through dense undergrowth: as you climb higher Mediterranean pines begin to take the place of the pinsapos. Careful! Some five minutes beyond the ceramic sign of Lorca’s poem you reach a junction marked by twin cairns. Here cut hard left and continue your ascent, zigzagging up through the pines and the reddish rocks. Passing a small breach in the rocks the path runs up to the top of the ridge where views open out to the southwest and the Bay of Algeciras. (30 mins) Here the path bears left towards the transmitter antennae atop the Reales peak, through another swathe of pinsapo pines. Marker posts help guide you up. Passing across another jagged ridge the path bears right and continues to climb. Reaching a flatter area and bearing left it runs on up to the antennae. Here, reaching a white hut, cut right right, pass a second hut then follow a narrow path up to the trig point marking the top of Los Reales (1450m). (50 mins) This is a great spot to take a

Estepona special www.theolivepress.es

VIEW FROM THE TOP: the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012 25

MOUNTAIN WAY break and gulp in the incrediCircuit to the Pico Reales and the ble panorama that lies before you. Leaving the peak retrace top of the Sierra Bermeja your footsteps back towards the first white hut which you THE NITTY-GRITTY passed earlier. Five metres Distance: 8 kms (up & down) before the hut cut right on Time required: About 2.5 hours (inc. breaks) a narrow path which drops Rating: Easy/Medium down to the track leading to Total height gain: 5300m the transmitter masts where Map(s): IGN 1:50000 Jimena de la Frontera you’ll see a signboard for 1071 (14-46) & Estepona 1072 Sendero de los Realillos. Here (15-46) angle right down a stony track Water: Tap with unchlorinated which loops down the eastern water @ 1 hr 15 mins flank of Los Reales, shortly passing by another transmitter mast. Looping on down past a group of mately 1.6 kms to return to forestry buildings you reach a junction with your point of departure. (1 hr another track and a plaque dedicated to 55 mins) Edmond Boissier who first catalogued the unique pinsapo pine. (1 hr 10 mins) Guy’s new book Coastal Walks in Andalucia conHere, cutting right for 100m you reach a tains a selection of 50 picinc area, Área Recreativa, where there are stunning walks close to picnic tables and, just beneath, the Mirador southern Spain’s coastde la Costa del Sol. There’s a tap with water line from the Costa de la to the right: a sign warns that it isn’t chloriLuz to the Costa Tropical. nated but the taste is all the better for that. The walks vary in length Continuing on along the track you reach a and difficulty. It is availturning circle and a sign Mirador de Salvador able at most bookshops Guerrero. From here continue along a narrow as well as from amapath to reach one of the Costa del Sol’s most zon.co.uk. For details of spectacular viewing points. After visting the Guy’s other walking guides check out mirador trace your steps back to the Boissier www.guyhunterwatts.com plaque then follow the track on for approxi-

A truly wonderful vista of the coast

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

TMRT1128 Charming townhouse in Estepona 3 beds, 1 bath, 119 m² Build, 90 m² Terrace - 295,000€

TMRA1164 Fantastic frontline beach penthouse in Costalita 3 beds, 3 baths, 316m2 including terraces 795,000€

TMRA1066 Luxury frontline beach garden apartment in Cabo Bermejo 2 beds, 2 baths, 127 m² Build, 45 m² Terrace - 550,000€

TMRA1061 Spacious frontline beach apartment in Venalmar 3 beds, 3 baths 218 m² Build, 35 m² Terrace - 740,000€

TMRV0923 Modern-style semi-detached villa in beachside gated development, Casasola - 4 beds, 3 baths, 250 m² Build, 130 m² Terrace - 690,000€

TMRV1153 Charming country property in Estepona - 4 beds, 2 baths 186 m² Build, 10700 m² Plot, 137 m² Terrace - 495,000€

TMRV1158 Immaculate luxury villa with sea views, Estepona - 5 beds, 4 baths, 450 m² Build, 2055 m² Plot, 100 m² Terrace 1,390,000€

TMRV1168 Lovely villa in residential area of Estepona 3 beds, 2 baths, 200 m² Build, 790 m² Plot 599,000€

TMRV1915 Stunning country home in Gaucin, priced to sell 4 beds, 4 baths, 300 m² Build, 30000 m² Plot - 895,000€

Terra Meridiana S.L. Property Consultants 77 Calle Caridad, 29680 Estepona, Spain

Tel: +34 951 318480 Mob: +34 678 452109 Fax: +34 952 808791

Email: adam@terrameridiana.com Skype: Terra Meridiana (Adam Neale) www.terrameridiana.com

Member of Leading Property Agents of Spain (LPA) AEGI (Asociación Empresarial de Gestión Inmobiliaria) Infocasa and IDD Network Members

Estepona special www.theolivepress.es

N overwhelmingly Spanish town with a great mix of properties and people, is how Adam Neale of estate agent Terra Meridiana describes Es-

tepona. “It is very Spanish and is always a nice place to come home to,” adds the agent, who arrived here nearly a decade ago ‘entirely by accident’ with his wife Theodora. Living slap bang in the centre in a delightful town house, which was once a flamenco school, the family-of-five are well integrated into the town, speaking Spanish and sending their kids to local schools. The English/Belgian couple have also just seen their agency have its best quarter for over five years. This comes despite all the negative press the Spanish property market has had to endure in recent years. An influx of foreign buyers from economies unaffected by the Spanish crisis and a strong pound are factors which have contributed to the unexpected jump. “Many people have waited three years for armageddon but it simply hasn’t happened,” reasons philosophy graduate Neale. “I think there is a sense of realism returning to the market.” Some of the success must certainly also boil down to the town’s easy-going attitude and charms. “It’s in a great location for the Costa del Sol and also Gibraltar and has everything infrastructurewise,” explains Theodora, who met her husband while working in marketing in Moscow. “The town is very child-friendly and there are countless after-school activities,” she adds. “We have a sailing club, equestrian centres, tennis clubs, so much for the youngsters to do.” Properties offered by the firm range from traditional village houses, such as Casa Matas for 100,000 euros, to front line luxury villas worth up to five million euros. “You can even pick up a two bedroom apartment for as cheap as 80,000 euros or a nice country property for 300,000 euros,” adds Neale. Neale is not the only person seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Chairman of Experience Group Alan James has run his Costa del Sol empire for 42 years

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A real Spanish town Estepona is a great place to go househunting, writes James Bryce

TYPICALLY SPANISH: Two classic stylish fincas for sale and (inset) Adam and Theodora Neale

from Estepona and has seen it all, including surviving three previous recessions. “It isn’t easy but it can be done,”states James, 73, whose companies have been behind many developments and over 5,000 homes. “People get fed up with austerity and having a holiday and buying a holiday home becomes a priority again, and of course what makes the Costa del Sol so appealing is the weather. “We’ve just had our best financial results since 2005 and we’re looking forward to another good year.” The entrepreneur has also recently launched a new fast internet and phone service for the coast – from Cadiz to Murcia which is proving popular. “People want to be online all the time now,” he explained. “Businesses need to be connected, but equally most normal IN the 1980s it was owned by a renowned German physician Dr Karl-Otto people expect Heede, who gave Finca Tierra Sana (healthy land) its name. it as well.” As well as planting a veritable paradise of herbs he installed numerous In a previous trees, including lemons, oranges, nisperos, chirrimoyas, persimmons guise he used and avocados. to run charJust a short drive from the coast, this stunning estate is now a breathtakity golf events, ing oasis. including one A place with a uniquely special ambience, for the last three decades with Jimmy it has been a venue for medical practitioners, doctors, artists, writers, Tarbuck, who painters and musicians. once owned The current owners Christine and Udo have run and hosted courses at a home in the 13 bedroom property for the past 15 years. El Paraiso. There have also been music festivals, yoga retreats and art exhibitions. Visit www. Ideal for seminars, vacation rentals, a B&B, rehabilitation or healing or as terrameridia beautiful retreat for a large family. ana.com and It is now for sale directly from the owners. Contact them at finca@tierrawww.experisana.com or call 952 798 050 more info. encegroupspain.com.

Own your own oasis

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Spanish charms

Pictures by: Jon Clarke

There is a wonderful range of architectural styles in Estepo old town, from church in Plaza Francisco (above and below), of the old Arabic wall (left), an church (far left) and a typical

A home from home Estepona’s eastern extremes are a real expat haven, discovers James Bryce

OF E EE RG FR A CH

ITTING at the eastern extreme of Estepona is something of a Little Britain. A long stretch of shops and restaurants strung along the side of the AP-7, Diana Commercial Centre and next door Benavista, offer something of a home-from-home for expats. The parade includes an English butcher, an Irish pub, golf shops and furniture emporiums, as well as a string of excellent restaurants. One of the longest running businesses Big Blue Box was set up four years ago and sells everything from antiques to new and nearly new furniture. “You can furnish your house here for half the price,” says Debbie Glynn, who has lived in Estepona for 12 years. “We have 2,000 square metres here so there is plenty to see. “We have just liquidated a furniture shop up the coast and have five containers of brand new tables, chairs and sofas just in.” Another incredibly popular place for British expats is the Benavista Bowls Club. “People relax when they come in the bar because they can sit and have a drink while the kids are enjoying themselves in the play area,” explained Jez Bloom, manager of the adjoining Los Arcos bar. The standout option among a range of eateries is JJ’s Restaurant, which offers excellent value from its fan lunch and dinner menus. “I love waking up to blue skies and palm trees, it’s a nice relaxed lifestyle,” enthused owner Julian Kerr. Peter Williams, owner of Golf City, added: “The area is not too over-populated and there is lots of open space to

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ona a San a section nother square

Beach lovers will love a visit to stylish Laguna Village between Estepona and Marbella, where you can find stylish shops, such as Tibet (above), great restaurants, such as Terra Sana (main) and beach clubs such as exclusive Puro Beach (right)

ntastic enjoy.â&#x20AC;?

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Days gone by

OLD CHARMS, LITTLE CHANGED: A lot has certainly changed in Estepona over the last 100 years, yet in the heart of the old town, many of the historic buildings still remain. Take a snapshot (above left) of Calle Caridad today and then compare it to the same street next to it in 1913. Or compare a shot of Calle Real today (top left) with a picture of its square in 1929. Also witness (top right) the virgin being paraded during Semana Santa... and finally (right and above) three more old shots of the centre of town

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Homecare caring for your home!

T is an exciting and useful addition to the Estepona area. Leading property company HomeCareontheWeb can help locally whether you need a boost in your rental income or simply want someone to take care of your property while you’re away. Working on the coast since 2003, the virtual ‘one-stop shop’ provides every management service you might need. This includes changing light bulbs, providing clean towels, paying bills and even installing boilers. The company, which also undertakes renovations, employs a team of ‘tried and tested’ contractors. “By subscribing to our home inspection service you can be sure that any unforeseen problems are identified and dealt with promptly,” explains a spokesman. One popular part of the service is that each client has secure online access to their own comprehensive Owners’ Management Area. “Owners can view and update their online calendar and monitor all activity from wherever they are in the world,” he continues. The company is also now working with Europe’s largest holiday company Novasol, to help clients bring in more bookings. HomeCare can advise on whether to look for long or short-term rentals and can, above all, bring in some much-needed revenue. Most of all, homeowners like the peace of mind from knowing that HomeCare is an established, well-respected company with a friendly customer service team always there for them and quick to respond. Visit www.homecareontheweb.com for more info

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

We’ve treated a tarantula with a wonky leg By James Bryce

OU could be forgiven for not knowing it exists. But a unique community on the edge of Estepona is thriving thanks to the popularity of a leading equestrian centre. The enclave, a few kilometres inland, has developed in recent years around the School of Equestrian Art and now offers a range of services including a vet, a dog groomer, a green grocer, a restaurant and even a reiki practitioner. “Our usual patients are cats and dogs but we get our fair share of chameleons, snakes chinchillas and rabbits,” said Dr. Nazli Kreft - van den Kieboom from the Pointer Veterinary Clinic. “We’ve even treated a tarantula with a wonky leg,” added the Dutch vet, who has worked in Spain for 15 years. Next door, Reiki therapist Dr.

Animal-loving community has grown up around local equestrian centre

CARING: Team at the Pointer Clinic and (right) horse statue Margarita Taylor-Schleppe offers a more natural form of therapy for humans, as well as animals, including the centre’s horses. “Reiki is a complementary therapy and does not replace traditional medicine but can support other therapies,” explained Dr. Taylor-Schleppe, who runs the Andalucian Institute of Reiki. As for the equestrian centre it-

Getting you back in gear!

“I WANT to see the back of my clients,” explains osteopath Paul Knight. “Once they know how to stand and take care of their bodies, there should be no reason for them to come back.” Knight is one of the coast’s few fully registered, UK-trained osteopaths. Qualified in 2001, Knight has a base in Estepona, from where he detects and treats damaged parts of the body such as muscles, ligaments, nerves and joints. “Like a well tuned engine, when the body is balanced it will function with the minimum of wear and tear, leaving more energy for living,” he explains. Contact Paul at 625957673

self, there is little doubt as to its popularity with the next generation of budding horse riders. Rider Ashlin Karslake, 14, who spends her school holidays at the centre said: “The facilities are really good and it is a great way to make friends.”

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T could be said to have gained a Royal seal of approval after being used at the Royal Palace in Madrid. Now an innovative product is set to feature on driveways and patios throughout Andalucia thanks to an Esteponabased building firm. Stencil Tech - which allows concrete areas to be resurfaced without being dug up - is one of several pioneering products being introduced to the coast by Concept Building SL. Set up five years ago, the firm operates between Soto-

Concept Building has a range of exciting new products to launch in Andalucia this year

Building confidence grande and Malaga and is the official Spanish distributor of a number of international building products. “We realised there was a gap in the market when clients were asking for materials that weren’t available in Spain,” director Steve Eggenton told

Window on the world WINDOW and door specialists Tecnoalumnio has been serving the local Estepona community for nearly two decades. Its experienced team has worked on hundreds of houses, hotels and apartments around the town. The slogan says it all. ‘We provide you with the windows today and solutions for tommorrow’.

the Olive Press. “We have built the company up through word-of-mouth and we are constantly searching for new ideas and innovative products,” added the 47-year-old Yorkshireman. Having worked on some of the area’s most expensive properties – including many in the premier locations along the coast - Concept Building works on projects ranging in price from 10,000 euros to over a million euros. Its team of builders can be seen driving up and down the Costa del Sol in their trademark grey vans. The firm’s website will feature a client zone allowing customers to keep an eye on the progress of their project and make changes to the specifications. Concept Building will host an open day on May 5 for members of the public and tradesmen alike, including a Stencil Tech demonstration. Fellow director Danny Robertson explained: “We are based in Estepona as it is a great

DRIVEN: Concept’s team at Estepona HQ location for this end of the Costa del Sol. “We are sure that with the

exciting range of products we have there will be plenty of tradesmen and homeown-

ers interested in what we are offering.” Visit www.conceptbuilding.com.

Estepona special www.theolivepress.es

A new Eden!

AST September enthusiastic organic farmer James Machin struck a deal with owner of the then ailing Eden garden centre, on the outskirts of Estepona. Sick of hearing Javier Gaudioso continuously complain that his palm trees were not selling and the centre was struggling, he came up with an idea. “Divide the plantation into 100 separate plots and I’ll get them all rented out,” he told him. And so was born the new ‘Club Eden’. For James the current recession has actually been a godsend, because at last he has been able to inspire people to ‘grow their own’. One of a growing band of converts, who shun supermarkets for organic boxes and muddy huertas, he believes his new scheme is the perfect way to feed a growing family. Divided by rows of palms, each plot is rotivated and organic compost dug in so tenants can begin planting. After a slow start, 30 of the plots have now been taken and the place is literally

Jane Jewson visits an enterprising new organic allotment scheme

BEARING FRUIT: Connie and Sophie tend their patch pulsing with life. On any given Sunday, entire families can be found digging, planting and watering their plots. I spoke to Connie and her daughter Sophie who were

Mustang must-haves

SMART: The popular cars are now more economical

T is certainly one of the Costa del Sol’s most eyecatching collections of sports cars. And pride of the pack at Estepona-based garage Best Coches are its Mustangs, ranging from 10,000 euros to 50,000 euros. “Mustangs are very, very popular cars, people come from all over Spain to have a look at them,” said owner Willy Van Hove. “Traditionally they were real gas guzzlers but the new technology has made them very economical.” The garage has a great selection of other cars, including Hummers, Porsches and Mercedes. But the garage, which sells one car a day, also has a range of bargain cars from 5,000 euros.

planting strawberries. They arrived a month ago and already have lettuces, herbs, onions and many other young plants to nurture. While Sophie swung from a nearby tree, Connie explained: “It’s such a good atmosphere, everyone is so friendly, my daughter loves it, she’s learning like I am. Plants are swapped and given away and we have great parties”.

Tools can also be shared and there is ample well water for irrigation Even better, market gardener Jesus is always on hand with expert advice and, of course, seeds and young plants to sell. Tools can also be shared and there is ample well water for irrigation. When not tending his own plot James is rallying troops to build a ‘Chiriguito Eden’ to provide shelter from rain, some shade and somewhere to socialise. As he explained: “We can grow all year round, no chemicals are allowed so everything is organic. “It doesn’t matter what you know...anyone can grow their own”. For more infomation contact James at milliontc@ mercuryin.es

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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Estepona special

Where to eat

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

ERCHED on a headland with one of the most incredible views towards Gibraltar and Africa, it is little surprise that Tikitano has become one of the coast’s leading wedding venues. With its high wooden beam ceilings and a splendid terrace leading to the beach, it is the perfect place to tie the knot. Constantly adapting and improving over the last decade, Tikitano also happens to be one of Estepona’s top places to eat. Built by a visionary Dane, who also owns local estate agent Livingstone Estates, it has just the right combination of style and panache. With a team of internationally experienced chefs, the menu is extensive and changes regularly by the season. Expect to find an excellent selection of fish and meat dishes and the out of hours ‘snack menu’ is also loaded with plenty of goodies. Just along the coast, in Laguna Village, is another fantastic beachside joint, the highly rated Terra Sana, one of eight in the chain of popular organic – and environmentallyfriendly – restaurants.

Coast with the most

LIFE´S A BEACH: At Lolailo and (below) Sur

There are some great beach restaurants in Estepona... and a few chestnuts in the town centre too, discovers Jon Clarke

HIGHLY RATED: Healthy options at Terra Sana One of two run by friendly Zahid (the other in Fuengirola’s Miramar Centre), the Londoner can occasionally be found

rolling up his sleeves and preparing the food, or even washing the dishes. Always full at lunchtime,

even after expanding across the street, the buzzing team knock out a great range of healthy options. In particular, the Morrocan style wraps, which come with subtly seasoned couscous make a delicious infusion of flavours. And the juices are Up the coast in Benavista amazingly fresh. you need to keep your eyes Another fantastic beachside peeled for JJs option is Lolailo on Playa A huge, freshly made burger del Cristo, Estepona’s best complete with thick cut chips, beach. salad and coleshaw was just Run by amiable Albanian the ticket after a morning Juliano expect to find great spent wandering round the fresh fish, pashops. The ella and top clean, welItalian dishes inteAll the hearses coming every day of rior is stylishly the year. Yes, used to pull up d e c o r a t e d 365 days of and has clearthe year, he in- so the mourners ly received as sists! much thought Always a great could have a final and attention place to visit at to detail as pint the weekends the equally when there is inviting lunch entertainment, and dinner this is one spot that is rarely menus. lacking in clients. Over in the heart of Estepona If you are looking for a com- town is another fantastic oppletely vegetarian restaurant tion. then you are very lucky for in Fast becoming the town’s Estepona you have the highly- most highly recommended rated Elemi, near the marina. restaurant, Sur is THE place Owner and chef Ray Valentine to have a steak. known as ‘The Vegetarian Run by an Argentinian dynasCrusader’ creates a fabulous ty, this is a classic family afarray of original and delicious fair where you will often find food in his kitchen. the boss, his wife, daughter “If my food converts just and son-in-law (a local busione meat eater to become nessman) helping out. vegetarian, I will die a happy There is a lively, but not noisy, man,” he says. mix of Spanish, English and

Irish and the subtle lighting and warm colours make for an atmospheric meal. In summer you sit in the newly pedestrianised square with its fountains and views across the sea. Juicy empanadas arrive followed by delicious spinach and pine nuts wrapped in filo pastry and served with a tropical salad. There is a good mix of lamb tagines and fish dishes, but it being an Argentinian joint you really need to try the steaks, which are fabulous. Up from this square, in Calle Caridad, you will find the town’s best selection of tapas restaurants, including Tipico Andaluz and Taberna de Lucia, which serves up Spain’s highest rated Cinco Jotas jamon. After a tapas crawl you should ensure to end up at friendly Bar Rouge, where Irish owner Thom Maher is a mine of local knowledge. “This was once the last bar on the edge of town before you got to the cemetery,” he explains. “All the hearses used to pull up so the mourners could have a final pint before the funerals.”

WEDDING BLISS: But the food at Tikitano is also excellent

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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la cultura

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April 19, 2012

New film tells tale behind 1900 German shipwreck and the British and Spanish heroes who came to the rescue

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Bridging the gap

IF it hadn’t been for the English, their dead bodies might have been shoved in the sand and left to the dogs - as was customary for nonRoman Catholics in Spain. But thanks to Malaga’s English Cemetery, built in 1831, the 41 Germans killed in a 1900 shipwreck were granted dignified deaths. Now new documentary The German Bridge tells the tale of the Gneisenau, a Navy corvette which

Painting joy IRISH artist Carol Diver has unveiled her latest exhibition at the Neilson Gallery in Grazalema. The expat, who splits her time between her native Donegal and Spain, spent more than 12 years teaching art in various prisons and has now decided to devote her time entirely to painting. The exhibition runs from April 14 – May 12.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

REVIVAL: Director Noguera tells the tale of the Gneisenau

by Eloise Horsfield crashed into rocks in the Bay of Malaga on a fateful December day. Spanish director Jaime Noguera, remembers how a number of brave Spanish residents went to their aid. His own grandfather was one of the Malaguenos who jumped into the sea to save the drowning. “It’s almost a personal thing for me,” he said. “My dad used to tell

me the story and it became a bit of an obsession. “I wanted to present it to young people in an educational way so it does not get forgotten.” As well as recognising the stories of the Malaga residents who cared for the dying – with many turning their houses into makeshift hospitals – Noguera also hopes to dispel certain myths about the wreck. “Until now, the story has been poorly researched and even Malaguenos don’t know much about it,” he added. The film is named after Malaga’s Santo Domingo Bridge which was given to the city in 1907 by Germany as way of thanks. For his efforts, Noguera even received a letter of moral support from German Chancellor Angela Merkel, ‘although we would have probably preferred a few euros so we could have finished the film earlier!’ he joked. The German Bridge will be shown at the Spanish Film Festival on April 21-28 in Malaga.

GRANADA LIGHTS THE Alhambra has unveiled a new exhibition focusing on the work of Irish-born American painter Sean Scully (above). Luz del Sur (Southern Light), which boasts over 100 works by the Turner Prize nominee, showcases the relationship between the artist and the Moorish palace in Granada. The exhibition, held in the Carlos V palace, will run until June 10.

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la cultura

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the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

AVERNOUS potholes littering the only public ‘road’ through Finca La Garganta hunting estate mean imperial eagles are not the only endangered species to reside here. On the few occasions that the condition of the road allows your eyes to wander, you are met by an imposing fence apparently built with the sole purpose of keeping the hoi polloi out. Meanwhile signs warning passers-by not to trespass are almost as numerous as the partridges which take flight as you edge along the track. Nestled among miles and miles of rolling pine and oak-covered hills in the northernmost extremities of Cordoba, the exclusive property is one of Europe’s most secretive bolt holes. The 15,000 hectare estate - leased by Britain’s richest man, the Duke of Westminster - is a popular retreat for Europe’s elite, with Princes William and Harry the most recent visitors in January. The

Following a recent hunting trip by princes William and Harry, the Olive Press sent James Bryce to investigate the controversial estate of the Duke of Westminster, dubbed ‘the feudal lord’

A spot of feudal fun REGAL: Finca Garganta and (inset) Prince Harry and entourage arrive at Ciudad Real airport King of Spain has also hunted here. Finca La Garganta – meaning ‘the throat’ - is tucked away in the Sierra Morena moun-

tains, nudging Ciudad Real province. Almost like an independent state, it boasts its own petrol station, a private railway sta-

tion and accommodation for 100 staff. Within its 50km perimeter the estate teems with wildlife, and provides a safe haven for

a number of protected species including three types of vulture and imperial eagles. But it is the highly sought after wild boars and stags,

as well as an abundance of game birds which make the property such an appealing home-from-home for William and Harry.

la cultura

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012 39 39

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The brothers spent two days on the estate earlier this year to celebrate the completion of Harry’s elite helicopter training, ahead of William’s deployment to the Falkland Islands. William flew into Sevilla airport before being joined at the estate by his brother, who had flown by private jet to Ciudad Real. The royal party of 10, including a number of friends and royal protection officers, were joined on the shoot by a team of around 20 beaters from surrounding villages. The all-male group were apparently intent on enjoying some quality time together away from their other halves, with William leaving his wife the Duchess of Cambridge in the UK. The party stayed in a ten-bed villa, featuring a jacuzzi, sauna and swimming pool. “They were whisked in by car and kept themselves to themselves all weekend,” one gamekeeper who works on the estate told the Olive Press. “I wasn’t told in advance who was visiting the estate, I was only told to put together a reliable team of men to help on the shoot. “I joined them on the shoot on both days but we weren’t allowed to talk to them, although they seemed to be having a good time,” he added, on condition of anonymity.

what’s on

enalmadena, April 21, St George’s Day Celebration in Mezquita Square. Full entertainment throughout the day with 30 stalls and a grand draw with over 40 prizes, to raise money for A.N.A.B.E and Cudeca.

rroyo de la Miel, May 12, book sale in the Municipal Public Library in aid of Cudeca. There will be

PRIVILEGE: Duke of Westminster and the hunting area, while (below) Wills on a hunt

On previous visits to the es- The gamekeeper’s property tate, as reported in the Ol- is as close as it is possible ive Press five years ago, the to get to the Finca without an princes ventured into the invitation, with privacy apparnearby village of Conquista ently top of the agenda for and even dined at the popular the reclusive Duke. Sierra Madrona restaurant. The aristocrat - who has an But on this occasion it seems estimated 8.5 billion euro the royals were content to fortune - took control of the stay within the confines of estate in 2001 after leasing their villa. it from the heirs of previous “Everybody knows they have owner the Duke of Bavaria for been here again recently but a reported 2.4 million euros. no one saw them this time,” And following a high-profile one restaurateur told the Ol- spat with the locals in 2003, ive Press. it is perhaps “One of the TV not surprising networks hired the powerful a helicopter to Locals are angry landowner is fly over the eskeen to keep tate in an ef- at the number of the native popfort to try and at arms public roads on ulation spot them but length. the only sight- the estate cut off It came after ing was of Harhe was able to in recent years move the prory at Ciudad Real airport,” posed route of he added. a new toll moSpeaking in torway away 2007 following a previous from the estate and nearer to visit by Prince William, es- the local village of Fuencalitate manager Jose Maria ente. Tercero told the Olive Press: The Duke successfully ar“William has been here, but I gued on ecological grounds cannot comment when or for the new road should not cut how long. I cannot say any- through his estate, despite a thing about the finca or how high-speed train line already it is run. I have been told to doing so. say nothing to the press. The However, he met strong oppoDuke is a very private man sition from residents in Fuenand does not want any inter- caliente, who argued the alference here.” ternative route through their village was just as destructive to the environment and significantly more expensive. The fact the Spanish Transport Minister at the time had been a guest at the estate SHE has worked with the likes of Laura Pausini, Susan only added to the villagers’ Boyle and David Bisbal. suspicion the Duke has used Now Swedish musician Janett Jensen, an A&R (artist his political influence to sway and repertoire employee) for 16 years at Warner/Chapthe decision. pell, is hosting a song writing camp in Almunecar. The row over the proposed The week long camp, which will run from May 8-15, will Cordoba to Madrid road has bring together professional writers, musicians and singincreased the sense of a ers from Sweden and Greece. seige mentality developing on “Almunecar is a perfect place for creativity and hopefully the estate, which has a submore composers from all around the world can meet stantial security detail. here over the coming years,” said Janett. Locals are also angry at the For more information contact Janett on 651 586 723 or number of public roads runemail janett@janettjensen.se ning through the estate which have been cut off over the

Making sweet music

last few years, dwindling from 13 in 1978 to just one today. But not everyone is against the Duke dubbed ‘the feudal lord’. “It is good for the village and is bringing a lot of employment,” local mayor Diego Buenestado told the Olive Press. “The Duke might be a secretive person, but he shows a lot of consideration to his workers.”

books available in English as well as other European languages, priced between 50 cents and 3 euros.

ahara de la Sierra, April 22, 12 noon. Street Fair combining works and products from local producers with live entertainment and activities for the kids.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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Top Dollar

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New bailout fears Markets speculate on Spanish economy as bond yields go above six per cent By James Bryce

FEARS continue to grow that Spain may need an emergency bailout. It comes after borrowing costs inched ever closer to the level that led to three other European countries to require help. Lending costs on 10-year bonds rose above six per cent for the first time this year, with economy minister Luis de Guindos admitting the country was back in recession. The increase means Spain is now perilously close to the seven per cent mark, which proved to be the tipping point for Portugal, Greece and Ireland. The news led to British banks losing a

combined 2.5 billion euros in market value on Monday as investors worried about the knock-on effect. The rise in Spain’s bond yields (to 6.2 per cent) caused panic for the eurozone as the country’s 1.1 trillion economy is seen as too big to bail out. And while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted the eurozone recession will be ‘milder than forecast’ this year, new risks are expected for Spain whose economy will shrink by 1.8 per cent. Japan has moved to ease the impact of the eurozone crisis on the global economy by pledging $60bn of loans for the IMF. Britain is likely to be asked to stump up £10 billion to prop up the fund. But it does not appear that this will help Spain in the short term according to analysts.

DELVING INTO A DARK ANDALUZ HOLE

Andalucia’s huge and unknown debt is proving to be an obstacle to growth, writes Wendy Williams

THE black hole of debt in Andalucia is being blamed for much of Spain’s economic woes. It comes as EU inspectors demand answers on how Spain intends to reign in its regional spending. Andalucia – the biggest region – could be in debt by as much as 3.3 billion, but senior government figures admit they do not know for sure. Antonio Beteta, the secretary of state for public affairs, claimed Andalucia was cooking its books and hiding unpaid bills. “Andalucia is not being transparent,” he said. “There is a problem of both transparency and credibility.” However officials in Andalucia were outraged by the accusations and have insisted the EU inspectors come to the region to look at the accounts. “They are not opaque and there is no hidden deficit,” the region’s finance boss Carmen Martinez insisted. The 17 regional governments currently spend almost four out of every 10 euros of Spain’s public money and last year, despite pledges of austerity, the regions failed to cut their joint deficit by a single euro. On top of this many owe billions of euros to street cleaners and health workers. In some Andalucian towns such as Jerez – which is indebted by 328 million euros – workers are owed millions. Marbella is in debt to the tune of 267 million euros, while towns like Ronda owe over 25 million euros. It has led to Mariano Rajoy’s new government failing to convince the markets it has the situation under control. Now the bond yields have been pushed up over six per cent again, meaning Spain will have to pay more to borrow money. It could force more cuts in government spending and comes on the back of a further 10 billion euros of cuts in health and education. One measure specifically targetted foreigners who ‘abuse the health service’.

Crisis

“We’re back in full crisis mode,” said Lyn GrahamTaylor, a strategist at Rabobank. “It is looking more and more likely that Spain will need a bailout.” Unemployment in Spain is the highest in Europe with a record 4.75 million out of work, including half of its under-25s.

Argie bargy set to see oil price rise ARGENTINA has announced the immediate nationalisation of oil company YPF, part of Spain’s Repsol. She has also fired the company’s Spanish directors from the headquarters in Buenos Aires. Despite strong protests from Spain and the EU, president Cristina Kirchner has wrested control from Repsol and announced that 51 per cent of YPF will now be controlled ‘for the good of Argentina.’ Meanwhile Iran has cut all crude oil exports to Spain as a pre-emptive measure against EU embargos – which Spain is ironically not supporting. The European ban, set to come into place on July 1, is an attempt to force Iran into abandoning the development of nuclear weapons.

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

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Top Dollar

42 the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012 42

NDECENT, immoral and unjust…these are just some of the words that have been used to describe the tax amnesty proposed by Spain’s conservative government to flush out black money. The newly adopted measure has been criticised largely by socialist parties who see it as an opportunity for the rich to be forgiven for their tax-evasion practices by allowing a single one-off tax payment of 10 per cent of the unreported funds and assets. The PP proponents of the initiative however see in it an opportunity to normalise the economic activity and rid it of the traditionally strong submerged economy. Whatever opinion we may have from an ethical point of view, the reality is there is

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AGONY ANT

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

Black and white...cash

Lawyer Antonio Flores considers the pros and cons of the tax amnesty proposed by the new PP government once again plenty of political opportunism: Spain already has a statutory four-year pe-

Legal ease INSURANCE company Linea Directa is offering a new online Legal Assistance service which offers expatriate customers advice on Spanish legislation in English. The product, which the company claims is 40 per cent cheaper than the average market price, gives advice on buying and selling cars, homes. There is also advice on how to deal with consumer disputes and labour law. Furthermore if the query is urgent, such as accidents at home or a stolen credit card, the company can be contacted out of hours on 902 123 104.

riod for fiscal amnesty which is, in fact, considered one of the principles of Spanish tax law and is one mechanism widely employed by foreigners who inherit property but cannot pay the exorbitant tax. According to the statute of limitation, the Tax Office cannot request payment of taxes after this time has elapsed, and so what the Government has done here is shorten the period but charge tax on these amounts to help the state’s drying coffers. And the statute of limitations on tax is so protected that, according to Spanish Supreme Court case law (STS 12 November 1998),

the recognition and enforcement of the prescripcion, as it is called in Spain, is an obligation of the Spanish authorities that cannot even be waived by payment of the tax, after the period has elapsed (not that anyone would want to, but it has happened, by mistake!). The above court ruling says that once you win the prescripcion the authorities will have to accept it ex officio, or as an official obligation. This applies whether you owed them 10 euros or 10 million euros, even if they missed you by one day… (that is, four years and one day counting from the last day to voluntari-

ASK ANT

Let Antonio answer your queries

Does a community of owners of an apartment block need an ‘administrator’?

By law, this is not necessary as the role of administrator can be performed by the president. Generally however, it is more convenient for the owners to rely on a qualified administrator to ensure this role is properly carried out, particularly where the development comprises many units or the job it time-

ly pay the tax). The second measure implemented by the government is that tax residents in Spain will have to declare any bank accounts they hold, abroad. This is going over old ground and seems more like a reminder because once again, one of the principles of international taxation is that a fiscal resident of a country has the obligation to declare any money he/she may have, worldwide (unless it is a tax haven and subject to double-taxation arrangements). We shall now see if taxpayers take any notice of this new reminder.

consuming and requires having knowledge of accounting.

I bought my property 15 years ago and have lost my escritura. Is my property at risk?

Not at all. You do not lose ownership if you lose your escritura, as this document only serves as proof that you purchased the property at a given time. If you wish to know you are the owner, you need to go to the land registry, as long as the escritura was registered. Given the amount of time passed I suggest you check with the land registry to confirm your ownership. If you cannot find any record of it, you can go to the notary where you signed the deeds and ask that a second set of deeds are printed. We always recommend that all deeds are properly registered. Where a purchase takes place with a mortgage loan, this is a mandatory requirement and the bank takes care of it.

Top Dollar www.theolivepress.es

Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander

HOW SAFE IS YOUR MONEY IF YOUR BANK SHOULD FAIL? Why you should consider possible contingency plans in case things go badly wrong

N December 2011 an article in The Times considered potential evacuation plans for British expats in Spain in the event of a financial collapse in the Spanish banking sector. The story was very quickly dismissed by the British Consul in Madrid but earlier this month, the Financial Mail on Sunday looked again at the concerns and potential contingency plans to ‘fend off public fear’. The article appeared on April 1. Whether any such contingency plans exist, or not, is open to speculation. But what is very clear is that the financial crisis in Europe is far from over and it would make total sense for individuals to make sure that they have their own house in order, with possible contingency plans in case things go badly wrong. After the run on Northern Rock, resulting in the UK Government stepping in followed by the complete failure of Lehman Brothers, people became a lot more aware of the need to consider investor protection and started to spread their money on deposit. However I doubt the same care is being taken today, less than four years later – and it certainly should be! While the guarantees with British banks are now £85,000 per investor, or £170,000 for a couple, you need to be sure that if you divide your savings between two banks they are not part of the same group as they may share the same guarantee. In Spain, the deposit guarantee scheme covers up to 100,000 euros but unlike the UK, in the case of joint account holders, the limit is shared between them. So where do you keep your savings and do you know how well you are protected

if the bank should fail? Moreover, it is not only the banks that need to be considered. With many people holding their capital in collective investments, what financial security do they achieve? In the UK, there is the Financial Services Compensation Scheme to step in if all else fails, but even if you are an expat Brit with UK investments, unless you were UK resident at the time you set up the investments with a UK institution, the compensation scheme will not help you. It makes a lot of sense to review your financial plans periodically in any event, but if you have not reviewed just how secure your investments are, you should consider doing so without delay. The financial strength of the organisation you are invested with is the first question to raise, and then you should look beyond it to see what protection there is, if any, in the event of its failure. The old ‘eggs and baskets’ maxim is worth remembering too. While considering financial strength, this is also a good time to think about the currency you are invested in and how well your money is sheltered from tax. All tax authorities are looking at ways to be more tax efficient in terms of the amount of tax they can collect but there are many examples of people paying much more tax than they need to. Never mind governmental contingency planning – get your own house in order and you won’t need their input even if the situation does deteriorate.

Richard Alexander Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of L J Financial Planning Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the UK. Contact him at Richard@ra-fp.com

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

Telefonica fine upheld AN EU court has upheld the record 125 million-euro fine lodged against Telefonica for abusing its dominant market position. The European Commission, which levied the fine - the largest ever imposed on a telecommunications company – in 2007, accused the telecommunication giant of imposing unfair prices on the Spanish broadband market.

However Telefonica has now said it will launch a further appeal with the European Court of Justice. It comes as the EU has also launched an ‘in-depth investigation’ into the creation of a potentially anti-competitive mobile commerce joint venture in the UK between Telefonica (O2) and its rivals Vodafone and Everything Everywhere.

Warning for ‘abroad fraud’ cheats UK ministers seek to tighten up rules allowing Brits to claim the dole while living in Spain

BENEFIT cheats living in Spain are being warned not to break the law by claiming payments they are not entitled to. Iain Duncan Smith, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, claims fraudsters cost the British taxpayer 52 million euros last year. Spain is the number one country for so-called ‘abroad fraud’, he said during a visit to the British Embassy in FREEBIE: Are dole claimants cheating the system? Madrid on Monday. “This money should be go- seekers’ Allowance (JSA) living abroad,” said Emma ing to the people who need in 2010-11 to an estimated Boon of the Taxpayers’ Alit most and not lining the 2,000 people who left Brit- liance. pockets of criminals sun- ain for another European “There must be safeguards ning themselves overseas,” country. in place to ensure that he said. “How many of these people people don’t exploit the sys“It is a crime and we are do we think are genuinely tem.” committed to putting a stop seeking work while they are to it.” sunning themselves on the Official figures show 1.2 mil- Costa del Sol?” said Conserlion euros was paid in Job- vative MP Philip Davies, one of several ministers seeking reforms to EU law to restrict hand-outs. “Other countries aren’t going to be busting a gut to ensure they are seeking work when they are over there, when it is the British taxpayer who is paying up,” he added. AMAZON has launched a Claimants in Spain must new Kindle bookstore in have been registered for at least four weeks in Britain Spanish. The brand new ebooks and ‘exhaust all possibiliKindle en Espanol boasts ties’ of finding a job there, 30,000 titles, including ‘before extending their Spanish-language bestsell- search in another country’. ers such as Cien anos de “Many taxpayers can’t afsoledad by Gabriel Garcia ford a holiday right now Marquez, and recent titles so it will seem strange to from popular authors such them that the Department as Carlos Ruiz Zafon and is handing out JSA to those Isabel Allende.

A very novel idea

43 43

Olive Press offer for cheap international mobile calls LAST year marked a dramatic change in the way we use our mobile phones, when trendsetters such as Mega Mobile worked out how to get big savings on international calls. Fast forward to 2012 and nearly everyone is making international calls directly from their mobile, via a low cost provider. The irony is that Movistar, Vodafone and Yoigo are making up for it by charging more for us to call our friends in Spain than most of us now pay for our international calls. One client Steve Burns explains: “It strikes me as very strange that I can call the UK from my mobile for two cents/min... and yet Vodafone charge me 15 cents/ min for a local call.” There are various ways to activate a low cost call service on your mobile phone. Usually a low cost-chip gets fitted in tandem with your existing SIM card. However, newer phones can be activated via a simple download. Continues Burns: “My international calls used to cost over 100 euros a month. Now I spend less than 10 euros through Mega Mobile.” Mega Mobile is free to install and is currently offering 10 euros free credit for Olive Press readers. Sign up at La Cala de Mijas office opposite La Noria Golf or call 952 493 655 or visit www.megamobilegroup.com

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Having spent decades refining our effective low-risk investment plans in the UK, we have decided to launch our company in Spain. We know there is a big expatriate market over here and with our long and proven savings expertise record, we believe we can really make inroads. With over 60 years of experience between us we will quickly know instinctively the sort of investment most appropriate to your situation. Whether you are looking to protect your nest egg, or invest for your grandchildren, we can help.

Get in touch with MWM Investments, a fully-regulated IFA now in southern Spain

We have clients in the UK who span two generations and have been with us for almost two decades. We have tax free savings plans that can earn up to 8% per cent a year and we also have investments that are guaranteed not to go down in value. We have schemes that give you quick access to your funds and can arrange to have some cash released from your pension fund, if you have not yet started to receive an income.

We can do it all! Moreover we are fully qualified and accredited by the UK financial authorities and so your funds will be safe with us. To recap, we can can provide:l Free initial face to face meetings l Tax free savings income of up to 8%

l Ongoing advice and proper professional care

Scheme, and the Financial Ombudsman Service.

l Can provide investments guaranteed not to go down in value

Visit our dedicated website www.mwmspain.es for more information, or give us a call on 951 406 550.

The value of investments can go down as well as up.

l Arrange for rapid access to your funds if needed l Tax free money released from your pension funds and with the best possible income

Out trio of advisers are fully qualified and accredited. All advice is covered by Professional Indemnity Insurance, and by the UK Financial Services Compensation

David Parkinson Dip PFS Managing Director, Senior Investment Consultant, Compliance Manager David has 24 years financial services experience, and prior to that spent 10 years as a tax inspector with the UK Inland Revenue. Having spent his working life dealing with taxes, investments, pensions and all their implications he is a capable Independent Financial Advisor (IFA) advising on investments large or small, including family wealth. For David a specialist area is getting the best possible income from pensions and invested money. His thorough understanding of tax matters means his clients pay as little tax as possible. David is a member of the Personal Finance Society which is affiliated to the Chartered Insurance Institute. He holds specialist qualifications in Taxation, Equity Release, and Commercial Mortgage Finance. Away from the office David is a family man married to Stephanie with two grown children. He is a keen follower of Leicester Tigers RFC and Tottenham Hotspur FC. He is also a bit of a petrol head but he unfortunately lacks the resources for a Ferrari.

Stephanie Parkinson Commercial Director, Mortgage Advisor, Family Protection Insurance Advisor Stephanie is the hub around which MWM spins. She runs all back office systems, accountancy and banking... and that includes her husband David. Over the last 30 years she has benefited from wide-ranging experience in the exacting oil industry world, as well as in the brewing and engineering sectors. She is a fully-qualified Mortgage and Protection Insurance Advisor. At home Stephanie is the heart of her family, and if she ever had any spare time would like to travel and see the wonders of the world.

MWM Investments Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registration number 400105 and passported to give advice in Spain.

Stephen Meadows Cert PFS Senior Investment Consultant, Principle Fund Researcher After 28 years in financial services Stephen is well qualified to give advice on investment management. He specialises in running investment portfolios for individuals and pension funds seeking either income or growth with their money. Stephen previously worked as a building society branch manager and following that acted as independent financial advisor to an accountancy practice specialising in dealing with professional footballers. He has also been the director of an general insurance and financial services company. Stephen has a particularly loyal client following and he is frequently advising two and even three generations of the same family. This in itself amply demonstrates his dedication to the financial well being of his customers and his deep understanding of financial matters. In his spare time Stephen is a keen runner and skier having completed several marathons and he also follows the fortunes of Derby County FC.

www.mwmspain.es

Top Property www.theolivepress.es

Myth-busting: Inheritance tax In the second of two parts Mark Roach, from Wincham International puts to bed some more common misconceptions about property succession… • Re-financing the property will avoid inheritance tax. If there is a mortgage on the property (hipoteca), the owner does not actually own that part of the property subject to the loan. Therefore inheritance tax is only payable on the net value inherited. However if the bank has an insurance policy which clears the loan on death, the full value of the property will be inherited and full tax payable. The alternative is that the beneficiaries have a loan on the property and the borrowing is ultimately settled by the executor of the estate. • Joint ownership of the property with your children/ beneficiary means they do not need to pay inheritance tax.

Passing ownership of your property to your inheritors has many complications, and potential implications in respect of gift tax, transfer tax and capital gains tax in both the UK and Spain. If you transfer part of the asset, probate will still be required on any balance you retain. This tactic is also complicated because the asset could be at risk in the case of a marital or financial issue with one of your co-owners. It is always possible a son or daughter could predecease their parents, which could then put the parents at risk of losing control of part of their asset, depending on the will of the deceased person. For more information contact Mark Roach on Iht.info@wincham.com or visit www.winchamiht.com

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

ZERO HELP

Competa resident left flummoxed as to how to regulate his home to move into his house because it has no electricity or water. However Phillip Smalley, head of the English-run residents group Save Our Homes Axarquia (SOHA) insisted all the town halls have been to seminars to explain how it will work. “We are advising all our members to do nothing for now,” said Smalley, who represents many of the owners of the estimated 11,000 illegal homes in the Axarquia. “I suggest Mr Vickers joins SOHA so we can look at his individual case and give him the advice he needs,” he added. When the Olive Press contacted the town hall a spokesperson HOUSE prices in Spain have fallen to become ‘a little said: “The decree more realistic’. states that some According to Kyero.com - Spain’s biggest English properties will language property portal – prices in the country are be legalised, but readjusting and are likely to ‘bottom out’ this year. not all. Anyone The first quarter 2012 House Price Index revealed who wants help foreign purchasers from the European Union are can come into the continuing to take advantage of low prices to scoop town hall and we up a bargain in Spain. will do our best,” she added.

AN expat wishing to regulate his illegal property has fallen at the first hurdle after Competa Town Hall sent him away when he tried to get the necessary paperwork. It comes despite the Junta passing a decree in January promising the legalisation of 250,000 properties in Andalucia- but Albert Vickers, 67, insists town hall officials have been ‘useless.’ “They said they haven’t got the papers and they don’t know what I’m talking about,” said Vickers, originally from Bournemouth. He has been unable

HOPE FOR HOMES

Finally legal

ILLEGAL property in El Puerto de Santa Maria could now be regularised. The Town Hall has announced from next January it wants to start the process of regularising some 5,173 illegal homes, built in groups in the town without control or supervision. Under the PGOU Urban plan the municipality will charge owners who want to regularise their homes, many of which have outstanding judicial processes against them and some of which were even built on non-buildable land. The cost of legalisation will depend on the size of the plot, the buildings constructed and the location of the property. But the town hall wants to search for a solution to avoid any demolitions.

Mortgages down again The Euribor interest rate index – the most widely used in Spain to set variable rate loans – has posted its sixth consecutive monthly drop which brings it to the lowest level since October 2010, resulting in a lower monthly payment for mortgage holders.

by Herbert Raven with 44 points off handicap 15. Michele O’Sullivan triumphed for the ladies with 33 points off handicap 22 with Joy Champion coming home second with 32

WINNERS CUP he Winner’s Cup was held early November. To qualify, you had to have won either a monthly Stableford, a monthly Medal or an Honours Board event in the last 12 months. With nearly 60 players trying their best, Herbert Raven (our current Vice Captain) came home for the men with 38 points off handicap 15 and Ali Easter for the ladies with 33 points off handicap 12. Well done Herbert and Ali!

the olive press - April 19 - May 02, 2012

In the swing of it

THE OLIVE PRESS’ MONTHLY GOLF SECTION

he Santa Maria Annual Charity Golf Event was held on the 9th December. The day involved an AM AM golf competition played off the white tees (best 2 scores count per hole), closest to the pin prizes, longest drive prizes, lunch, a raffle, a grand auction and a prize giving ceremony. A full field of 21 four-man teams made an early shotgun start before being wined and dined in the main clubhouse. The overall team winners were “The Caddymasters” with a fantastic score of 101 points (David Mosely, Mark Webber, Fernando Ortega and Pepe Gago). In second place were team “Siesta Time” with 86 points (Chris Day, Mike Smith, Tim Swift and Villen Mehilenin). Just beaten into third place were team “Mixed Bag” with 85 points

points off handicap 23. Thanks to Glenis Harley who

prepared the hampers and well done to everybody!