Olive Press Newspaper - Issue 314 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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Mijas Costa

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Vol. 13 Issue 314 www.theolivepress.es March 27th - April 9th 2019

HOUSE RULES

ANXIOUS expats breathed a sigh of relief this week after Parliament voted to wrestle back control of the Brexit process in yet another humiliation for Theresa May. The fresh blow for the British Prime Minister has put the future of a million expats in Europe firmly into the hands of MPs, who are expected to avoid a hard Brexit. It comes after thousands of expats joined a million marchers at a massive anti-Brexit protest in London at the weekend. “It was great to be there making history I hope,” said Sue Wilson of Bremain in Spain. “It is not the first time we have voted with

Graffiti masterpieces by Spain’s own Page 9 Banksy

Continues on Page 4

Celebrating the end of the Spanish Civil Page 10 War

Kidnap fears PROTEST: Puns, pets and expats from Spain were all in attendance at the anti-Brexit march in London at the weekend

Michelin muppet makes an enviro-faux Page 35 pas

Backpacker vanishes from Malaga as sister is convinced ‘something bad’ took place

Olive Press reviews Madrid’s hottest new Page hotel TM 40

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902 123 282 See page 2

MISSING: Swedish Tea

A DISTRAUGHT sister is pleading to Olive Press readers to help find her missing sibling who vanished while backpacking in Malaga two weeks ago. Madelene Tammi, from Sweden, fears her little sister Tea Nico-Lee Tammi, 23, who was last seen in Nerja on March 3, may have been kidnapped or taken somewhere ‘against her will’.

“My heart is bleeding,” concerned Madelene insisted. “The circumstances and details from friends she was with at the time make me believe something bad has happened.” Madelene added that her sister had lost her passport and mobile phone and has no means of income. Most worryingly, Tea, who is affectionately called Nico,

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deleted all her social media, which Madelene thinks means she may have been taken somewhere against her free will. “She definitely would have contacted me if she had moved of her own free will,” added Madelene. She revealed that an initial search by police in the area has ‘not yielded any leads’ and Interpol are now set to get involved.

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Police in Sweden confirmed to the Olive Press that the case is being investigated by the Swedish Police Authority. “National police are investigating this case but we cannot comment any further at this time,” a local officer from Eskilstuna, where both girls are from, told this paper. Nico has several large stars tattooed on her left arm. Anyone who thinks they may have seen Nico please get in touch with newsdesk@theolivepress.es or call 951273575. Also call Madelene on +46 739 257 141 or contact the Swedish police on +46 771 141 400.

CRIME

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NEWS IN BRIEF Data with destiny A COURT in Madrid has accused an American, Mexican and South Korean of being part of a 10-member group, which broke into the city’s North Korean embassy and offered the FBI stolen data from the raid.

Klavina was happy

Pair deny kidnapping missing Agnese Klavina while friends insist she had ‘no reason’ to vanish By Pablo Balbontin at Malaga court

FRIENDS and family of missing Agnese Klavina insisted she had no reason to vanish, during a court case into her alleged kidnapping by the British pair. She was happy and her family had been in daily contact with her, when she was bundled into

Sent down BRITISH paedo David Daniel Hayes, 40, who was arrested in Granada in 2015 after three years on the run, has been jailed for 23 years.

Strangled A BRITISH expat has been arrested after allegedly strangling a homeless man to death before setting his body alight. The unnamed 50-year-old, from Belfast, is being held with her alleged accomplice, a 43-year-old Spanish man, in the Canary Islands. The victim, 61, from Romania, was found strangled to death and torched on January 11 in an abandoned building in Gran Canaria, where he had been sleeping. Police confirmed the group knew each other, but refused to give out further information. Officers raided their homes and seized clothing worn by them on the day.

Loser Angeles THE PSOE has called for PP Marbella Mayor Angeles Munoz to testify in court, after it was alleged she committed crimes of malfeasance and misuse of public funds.

If you don’t ask SPAIN has rejected Mexican president Lopez Obrador’s request to ‘accept errors and ask for forgiveness’ for its colonisation of the South American country.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

a car against her free will by millionaire expat Westley Capper and his pal Craig Porter in 2014. Her sister told Malaga Court: “Everything was in its place in her room, like someone who left and had planned to return a few hours later.” Mother Daiga added it was ‘an out of character disappearance’. However, she was never seen again after her night out at Marbella’s Aqua Mist nightclub, where she met privately-educated Capper and Porter. While she got into their car allegedly ‘against her will’ - the pair told the court they have no

Beach death A DEAD man has been found on a popular tourist beach on the Costa del Sol. The middle aged man, who may have committed suicide, floated onto a Nerja beach at 3:25pm on Monday. The arrival was in full view of thousands of tourists on the Balcon de Europa in the heart of the town.

idea what happened to her and denied any involvement in the disappearance. They insisted they had merely dropped her off on a roundabout near her home in San Pedro, before heading to Capper’s multi-million euro villa in the private estate of el Madronal. They were the last people to be seen with the Latvian woman on September 6, 2014, and are facing a 12-year sentence and an €83,000 fine.

into the car. The doormen twice pushed the door shut. Damningly, a few days later the pair were seen getting onto Capper’s yacht, Giofill III, in nearby Duquesa with a heavy red suitcase, which has never been found. Capper claimed that they had planned to head to Ibiza for the ‘closing parties’ and the bag was full of clothes, but that the boat broke down during the voyage, forcing them to dock in Cartagena in Murcia.

Struggle

Privately-educated Capper who arrived at Malaga court in a black Mercedes wearing dark sunglasses - is seeking ‘complete absolution’, arguing there is no evidence connecting him to Klavina’s disappearance. That is despite security camera footage from the nightclub showing Klavina being seemingly forced into their car. According to the prosecution and police, the video footage of her outside the nightclub showed she was ‘being driven against her will.’ They claimed she showed ‘active resistance’ and claimed there

Revealed

ACCUSED: Capper and (above right) Klavina was a clear struggle between her and Capper, who grabs her tightly on the wrist, adding that her dominant emotion is clearly ‘fear’. Just a few metres away, Craig Porter is seen talking to the doorman before also getting

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Police boarded the ship and found a blonde hair and other traces of DNA, however they did not match Klavina’s. The Olive Press revealed that the pair had later run over and killed expat Bolivian mother Fatima Dorado, 40, during a hit and run in 2016. The pair were under the influence of drugs and alcohol and then went for a curry in. Cap€300,000 to the court for ‘possible compensation’ to the family of Fatima and is believed to have been spared jail. A result of the Klavina trial is expected in April.

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NEWS

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COUPLED-UP: Romeo and Millie

Stranger fling STRANGER Things star Millie Bobby Brown has been dating Romeo Beckham. The Marbella-born starlet was introduced to Romeo’s famous family at charity Unicef’s 70th anniversary gala in December 2016. Romeo’s mum Victoria has given her ‘seal of approval’ to the young couple and is said to think highly of Millie, who is a regular on the Costa del Sol, where her parents used to work. The 15-year-old British actress, who earns €257,000 per episode for the hit Stranger Things series, posted a message on instagram last year wishing Romeo a happy birthday.

Short and sweet THE UK’s only dwarf drag queen has just completed a huge weekend of performances on the Costa del Sol. Jamie John, 30, one of the stars of hit Channel 4 show Seven Dwarves, has been entertaining in drag for a decade, including in the Canary Islands and Salou. This time he was back in Spain for two high-octane shows at Mirror Mirror in Duquesa, helping raise money for Manilva Pride 2019. “For me pride is about bringing the community together,” he told the Olive Press. “It’s everyone together, there are no labels, that’s why it’s so important.”

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Olive Press features in hard-hitting Maddie documentary 12 years after the toddler vanished THE Olive Press has played a starring role in the new hit Netflix documentary about missing Maddie McCann. The paper's editor Jon Clarke features in various episodes of the eight-part series just released by the global streaming giant. The makers behind the €20 million series, the Disappearance of Madeleine Mccann, spent two days with the Olive Press team in Malaga. They then travelled with Clarke to the Algarve, in Portugal, where the British three-year-old went missing on May 3, 2007. The Olive Press editor, 50, was the first journalist on the scene in Praia da Luz the day after police began their disastrous attempt to find the toddler.

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ADVISOR: Editor Jon Clarke (right) with film crew

Hoping for answers

In the hard-hitting series he takes the crew around the resort, and reveals his shock at how laid back the police operation was and how he met the McCanns in those early hours. "Initially there was just a small bit of tape in front of the apartment, and then a bit at the side where the patio doors were," he revealed in the film. "It wouldn't have been difficult to walk in and have a look around. It certainly wasn't Fort Knox," he added.

Spain features heavily in the doc, with shots of the Olive Press head office in Manilva and the Costa del Sol. The series looks into dangerous paedophiles around the area and many new leads that were not followed up. One investigator from detective agency Metodo 3 in Barcelona revealed how he spent nine months probing dozens of ‘sick’ paedophiles in both Portugal and Spain. It is expected to be watched by

BRITAIN’S most famous wildlife expert has teamed up with Spain’s most famous actress for a new Netflix documentary about the natural world. Our Planet is the latest series form the streaming giant, which gives viewers the option to have Sir David Attenborough or Penelope Cruz as a voiceover. The team responsible for the BBC’s award-winning Planet Earth are behind the new eight-part wildlife show, which is released globally on April 5.

The pair of national treasures are among 10 local narrators of the series, which has taken four years to make and was filmed in over 50 countries, involving over 600 crew members.

Voices of reason

EXPERT: Attenborough and Cruz

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PEAK: Gemma Atkinson hiking in Spain

Mounting a case millions and puts to rest long term rumours that the parents killed her. One local British expat NOT featured is conspiracy theorist ex-detective Peter MacLeod, based in Nerja. The former Nottinghamshire copper has long trolled that the parents were guilty and even produced a libellous pamphlet on why they did it. Friends of Maddie’s parents slammed him after he told an Australian TV channel this month that the way Kate McCann described her daughter’s bedroom window as wide open on the night she disappeared could be a ‘red flag’. They insisted he was merely ‘spouting off’ and that they were 'spurious allegations'. MacLeod, who used to run a B&B business in Ronda, once tried to claim that Olive Press editor Clarke could not have been in Praia da Luz on the morning after Maddie’s disappearance. In a disgusting blog post he also somehow suggested that Clarke may have been in some way involved.

STRICTLY Come Dancing star Gemma Atkinson has hit back at ‘pregnancy police’ while hiking in Spain. The ex-Hollyoaks star, 34, showed she was fighting fit despite being around five months pregnant, while climbing Spain’s highest mountain. Atkinson described the climb up 3,718m Mount Teide as ‘bittersweet’ as it brought back memories of her father, who died when she was 17. “We used to come every year and do the hike so it was bitter sweet, but I know he somehow helped drag me up there,” she said. She attempted the climb with her Spanish boyfriend Gorka Marquez, a professional dancer she met on Strictly Come Dancing. In a post, Atkinson published a picture of her with baby bump at the mountain’s summit, saying the hike was only ‘a drive, cable car and flat walk before the pregnancy police start on me’.

Dressing down

SHE travelled the world as a global ambassador for Spain. But now 1996 Miss Spain has been arrested at Madrid airport after failing to pay a traffic fine. Maria Jose Suarez was seized as she got off a flight from the Dominican Republic. The model and TV presenter was flagged up for two

HELD: Maria Suarez unpaid fines, one of which was for driving without a licence.

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NEWS

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A BRITISH expat couple have been accused of defrauding dozens of companies after taking money for a ‘fake tourism fair’, in Croatia. Andrew and Luisa Buchanan, based in Alhaurin el Grande, could face lawsuits from the Croatian government and Turkish Airlines after allegedly cancelling the event in Zagreb and absconding with at least €45,000 in cash.

NEWS IN BRIEF Clocks change CLOCKS in Spain will move forward one hour on March 31 to mark the beginning of Daylight Saving Time.

Hypothetical SPAIN’S PSOE party would win the April 28 general election by 122 seats, but fall short of a majority, if it were held today, an El Pais poll has found.

Pro proton TWO private hospitals in Madrid are set to offer highly sought after proton beam therapy to treat tumours. The technology has fewer side effects than X-rays.

Hammed up A KNIFE-wielding Spaniard on the Madrid Metro has been revealed to be a professional jamon cutter after a video of him went viral sharpening his tool on a train.

BREXIT: London march From front

Alarm bells

Million march our feet, but it was our biggest ever march contingent,” she added. “It was a sign of commitment that so many members joined us in London.” MPs used Monday night’s vote to express their discontent at Theresa May's stubborn refusal to set a fresh approach to Brexit. Parliament will now hold a series of ‘indicative votes’ today (Wednesday) in an attempt to break the Brexit deadlock after the Government lost the vote by 329 votes to 302. Shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer said: "Another humiliating defeat for a prime minister who has lost complete control of her party, her cabinet and of the Brexit process. "Parliament has fought back and now has the chance to decide what happens next." A softer Brexit will likely be one of the options to be voted on as will staying in the customs union and even another referendum.

SINGLE IMPLANT

The expat couple, who run Malaga-registered company Cent Euro Fairs SL, promised investors that their Sajma Central European Tourism Summit (CETS) would be a ‘major event’, bringing more than 400 industry players from 30 countries. The Tourist Association of Zagreb, the Croatian Tourist board, Croatian Chamber of Commerce, several travel agencies and sponsors - including

Not fair Malaga-based Brits wanted in Croatia after ‘disappearing’ with investors’ money for tourism event

Turkish Airlines and Croatia Airlines - are all believed to have invested in the fair. But alarm bells started ringing when the Buchanans moved the event from December 2018 to May this year. They said they were changing dates due to better weather and more available rooms. But no event is apparent and now various lawsuits have been filed against the couple, according to Croatian media.

Damaged in transit NEARLY half of all migrants arriving in Spain last year reported being robbed ‘at least once’ during their journey while 48% said they were physically abused. According to a report by the International Organisation for Migration, which interviewed 1,341 recent migrants to Spain, around 38% also said it took them more

March 27th - April 9th 2019

than one year to arrive to the country, travelling from as far as West Africa. The report also showed that men vastly outnumbered the number of women making the perilous journey. Spain has become the main gateway to Europe for migrants from Africa, with 63,325 arrivals last year.

IMPLANT BRIDGE

Investigators discovered that Cent Euro Fairs SL was just one year old, when it was claimed to be 25 years old. It was set up in January 2018 with a start-up capital of €3,000 and has no filing history. Records also show the couple have owned Heart of the Country SL, a property company in Alhaurin el Grande, since 2004 - which, again, had a start-up capital of €3,000 and no filing history.

Grave news A MASS grave thought to contain victims of Franco, has been uncovered in Madrid’s largest cemetery. The remains of 3,000 people were discovered in La Almudena after heavy rains. Thousands of people were executed in Madrid by Franco era military courts between April 1939 and February 1944. The grisly discovery comes as the Spanish government approve the exhumation of the dictator’s remains, with the reburial set for June 10. They did not pass, page 10

MISSING: Buchanan Lawsuits have reportedly been filed in Zagreb after the website for the event disappeared last month and investors say the organisers are ‘not contactable’. Meanwhile, the tourist boards and other partners have quietly removed all mention of the conference from their websites. Croatian media says the €45,000 cited in reports is just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ and is only the money the event received from the Zagreb Tourist Board and Croatian National Tourist Board. National tourist boards in Slovenia, Macedonia and Bosnia were also taking part, alongside dozens of businesses, meaning the actual losses could run into the hundreds of thousands. Do you know the Buchanans? If so, please contact the Olive Press at newsdesk@ theolivepress.es

IMPLANT DENTURE

NEWS

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Summer days NEW climate change data has revealed that Spanish summers are now five weeks longer than they were in the 1980s. A report by Aemet analysed meteorological data for Spain from the last 40 years. The research claims that around 32 million people are affected by a warming climate and so-called ‘tropical nights’ where temperatures do not drop below 20°. It also found that ‘the surface with semi-arid climate has increased’ by 30,000 square kilometers in the last 30 years - an area the size of Galicia.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Result for bulls Historic festival sees ban on bull torture upheld by Spain’s top court

HISTORIC: Ancient festival Toro de la Vega is banned

THE Spanish Supreme Court has put animal rights over ancient rites to end the torture and killing of bulls at a historic festival. Animal rights activists are delighted that Spain’s top court has refused to overturn a ban on bulls being lanced to death by a spear-wielding crowd at the Toro de la Vega feria, in Castilla y Leon. Judges insisted that the

Something in the water

All in a name

ALL water activities have now been banned on Istan lake, near Marbella, following a spate of dog deaths in the area. The ban by the Junta comes after tests discovered a cyanobacteria from the Phomidium family, which could be behind six dog deaths in the past few weeks. The discovery appears to contradict claims that have suggested the deaths could be the work of a serial pet poisoner. Despite outcry from locals and accusations of scaremongering, the poisoner theory has still not been ruled out by the Junta as it carries out further tests to determine whether or not the algae could be responsible. Cyanbacteria produces toxins that can poison domesticated animals, with symptoms including gastroenteritis, fever and irritation of the eyes, skin, throat and respiratory problems.

A RENOWNED English-language private school in Malaga has officially changed hands to become part of the International Schools Partnership Group. St George’s School will now be known as The British School of Malaga as it joins a global network of 34 schools from Mexico to Malaysia. The International Schools Partnership Group, which also includes Laude in San Pedro, aims to make each of their institutions the school of choice in their local area. The school, located in Cerrado de Calderón, was founded in 2000 and is the only British school in Malaga city. Teachers are all native speakers of English and qualified in the UK.

tournament, that was previously watched by 40,000 fans on the banks of the River Duero should stay outlawed. The ruling from Spain’s top court rejects the appeal of Tordesillas town hall, which argued the tradition, which involves cutting off the bull’s tail, should be allowed to continue.

Enjoyment

It said that the enjoyment of 40,000 fans could not be compared to the complaints of just ‘100 animal activists’. Mayor Jose Antonio Gonzalez insisted the council would now be seeking legal advice on what to do next. Meanwhile, president of animal rights group PACMA, Silvia Barquero, said the practice of bull torture ‘is not acceptable in today’s society’. According to PETA, over 100 towns have banned bullfighting, while an Ipsos Mori poll found that 80% of Spaniards are now against the tradition.

They’re telling us porkies BRITISH expats have slammed the ‘horrendous’ growth of intensive pig farms in Andalucia, claiming they ‘pollute’ the water supply. Agrifood giant Grupo Fuertes has been constructing the ‘macro-granjas’ across much of Almeria and Granada provinces. But locals warn thousands are at risk from the ‘carcinogenic’ pig slurry generated from the pork production.

Carcinogenic

“Within five years this whole region will be poisoned,” Nickie Lawson, 60, co-founder of local action group ‘Save the Altiplano’ told the Olive Press. She said: “Because we have such limited water supplies we rely on the underground systems. “But there is no way of preventing the carcinogenic slurry getting into the water. “They run it off into pits where it becomes more and more concentrated.” Green group Ecologistas en Accion has also filed a complaint with the Junta over the farms expressing concern for rare birds, including Red Kites. Grupo Fuertes declined to comment when approached by the Olive Press.

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r ! te bs w Lo no

Mobile service, tailor-made for Brits…

By Charlie Smith

www.theolivepress.es Voted top expat paper in Spain

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

OPINION Missing our Tea! THE distressing case of missing Swedish backpacker Tea Nico-Lee Tammi reminds expats to stay connected and help each other. What is important is not only staying in touch with loved ones at home but also fellow travellers who may be isolated or at risk. Tea’s older sister Madelene believes her sister may have been taken somewhere against her free will and ‘something bad’ may have happened. Malaga, after all, is the province with the third highest missing persons register in Spain. Around 14,000 missing people in Spain remain unaccounted for with two people disappearing in the country every day. Tragically many youngsters and teenagers are attacked by paedophiles and rapists the world over, such was the case of Maddie McCann, as revealed in a hard-hitting Netflix documentary this month. Let’s hope Tea is not a victim to one of these. Our big hearted readers are bound to do anything they can to help locate Tea and pray she is found safe and sound. Please keep your eyes peeled!

FEATURE

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Dys-membered Did gender dysphoria drive an Oxford Universityeducated expat to hack off his own penis in an act of extreme self-harm in Zaragoza this month? The Olive Press investigates EXCLUSIVE By Timothy McNulty in Zaragoza

HE ‘bloodied’ expat staggered down Zaragoza’s narrow streets close to Goya station in a nightmarish scene worthy of the great painter himself. Shocked onlookers enjoying a Friday evening stroll along the popular Gran Via saw the 33-year-old unnamed Brit bleeding heavily from his crotch and raised the alarm. Police recovered the man’s amputated penis in a grisly visit to his central apartment located on Calle Calatayud. They then raced man and penis to Miguel Servet Hospital where doctors

SUFFERING: The British man who cut his penis off may have had gender dysphoria

successfully reattached it in a complex operation, although they were unable to rule out future complications. While the unidentified man was recupe-

rating in the plastic surgery and urology department, police had the hard task of piecing together what series of events had led to this bizarre incident. The Londoner, who we are not naming for legal reasons, told police the wound was self inflicted, sparking theories about drug use and hysteria-induced self-harm. “We don’t know if we had a sick person here living with us or if someone tried to kill him. Now he is in hospital and no one knows how he is,” Reyes, a neighbour complained to the Olive Press. But Zaragoza police were quick to suspect the Brit did not carry out the horrific act himself. As the investigation progressed it was

Oh Dani Boy

Publisher/ Editor Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es

Laurence Dollimore laurence@theolivepress.es

Charlie Smith charlie@theolivepress.es Timothy McNulty tim@theolivepress.es

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2016 - 2019 Best expat paper in Spain and the second best in the world. The Expat Survey Consumer Awards.

2012 - 2019 Named the best English language publication in Andalucia by the Rough Guides group.

Already well established in Andalucia, Gibraltar and Mallorca, our website has covered the whole of Spain for over a decade and counts on over 15,000 visitors a day. The fourth newspaper in the (now) fast-growing Olive Press stable, we launch with a number of promises to our readers there, which we fulfill every fortnight in our other patches. We vow to serve up an original and varied mix of articles and our team of fully-qualified NCTJ-trained journalists will be on the ground to cover everything from corruption, the environ-

Issue 27

March 2019

Know what this is? It’s just helped an architect win the world’s most prestigious prize

March 13th - March 26th

2019

See Legacy on page VI

Spanish maestro celebrated for five decades in the business, see STARchitect page XII

SIMPLE, INTRICATE mixture, of the three AND STYLISH: Bofill’s works are all,

or a

RITISH buyers in Spain dum records despite the have beaten pre-Brexit referendoom and gloom, new figures have revealed. Shrugging off the the sale of homes to plucky UK’s imminent departure from the EU, Brits rose 12% in 2018 to 10,178 ing the 2016 record of 10,156. - beatWhile UK buyers declined last year. referendum in June 2016, significantly in the quarters after the steadily It means the UK’s share of the foreign market has ter of 2016, they started and by a massive 28% in the last quar- to 17% increasing from a low of 14% in the first quarter of been at recovering to increase by 2017 double-digits Although the end of 2018. this is not yet back to the levels prior to the referendum

The Brits have not stopped in Spanish property with investing a 12% rise in purchases last year

due to other nationalities flooding the market, it is expected again this year. to rise According to property expert Mark Stucklin, of Spanish Insight, the weakness of Sterling Property against the Euro was the leading cause of the drop in demand. “Once the Pound stabilised at a lower level British demand bilised and then began to grow also staagain,” he explained. Continues on Page

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Vol. 13 Issue 313 www.theolivepress.es March 13th - March 26th 2019

ROMANIAN SWAP

FIGHT THE POWER! Pylon the pressure

British expat trades in his British Romanian one to keep freedom passport for of movement Expat Nenei Newman, who has lived in Spain for 15 years, revealed he made the move to guarantee his right

1 See page 5

www.eliteglasscurtains.com

UK BASED

EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore

to freedom of movement. The builder, whose mother is Romanian, told the Olive Press last night: “I want to travel around Europe freely, and I have a life here, I don’t want to have to get a visa or become a third national.” The 41-year-old, who lives in the Axarquia, added: “Never in my wildest dreams would I have applied for Romanian citizenship before the referendum, but when Leave won and after seeing the mess being made by politicians I thought it was the best option for me. “I don’t regret it.” Newman insists he still loves the UK and hopes it will recover from Brexit’s side effects - despite the daily racism he suffered there.

THE Olive Press is this week launching a campaign to protect two of Andalucia’s most emblematic areas from a destructive electricity project. Our ‘Fight the Power’ battle comes as more than 4000 written allegations were submitted in opposition to the massive electrification scheme that will see 80m-high pylons spanning the Lecrin and Alpujarras valleys of Granada. This is despite a joint study by Granada and Cambridge universities estimating that a loss to businesses in the area will amount to €16 million a year. “We’re delighted the Olive Press is taking up our cause and I really hope we can save this stunning area,” said celebrated British writer Chris Stewart, of Driving Over Lemons fame, who lives in the Alpujarras.

NEW WORLD: Romanian passport deemed more useful

“I was so disappointed by am still the result, but I unders- grown proud to have tand why Leave won,” he I still up in London and admire the British added. and will always support “So many people who them 100%.” wanted to cut down im- His decision migration have been in- nightmare comes as a no-deal scefluenced by the biased nario media, who only wrote come is still a likely outnegative things about UK is just days before the scheduled to leave people like me. the EU. “Yet I worked incredibly Some hard every day to be on believed 700,000 Brits to be living in building sites for 6am Spain are particularly and never complained. at risk, “That was despite me pensionswith healthcare, and travel all and my mother both points of concern. receiving regular racist abuse” Brexit Shambles, He added: “That said, I page 5

Passport power

Support

Fellow expat Michelle Howard, who has lived in Lecrin for almost 20 years, added: “It’s great news that your paper will be mounting a campaign to support Di No A Las Torres against these destructive plans!” Their allegations were presented by the campaign groups last week in Granada. Under the scheme, the 220-kilovolt cables will cover a distance of 182 kilometres between Almeria and Granada, with 362 pylons and with a 14,000 square metre substation built in Saleres. A spokesperson from Red Electrica insisted it was a positive project, telling the Olive Press last night: ‘the better the electricity network, the better the tourism’.

In the 2019 Global Passport Ranking, compiled by the CEOWORLD magazine, the UK ranked below Spain, the UAE and 16 other European and Asian countries. The list ranks the passports of 193 countries and six other territories by counting the number of countries each passport can access without an advance visa. Romania was only 16 places behind the UK but that could change if visas become a requirement after the UK leaves the EU.

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Brexit shambles FABIAN Picardo has suggested revoking Article 50 and remaining in the EU after MPs rejected Theresa May's deal for a second time. It comes after MPs roundly defeated the Prime Minister’s deal by 149 votes despite May’s pleas to ‘get the deal done’. Immediately after the vote, May announced Parliament will get a vote today (March 13) on whether to leave the EU without a deal. “This result makes the possibility of our staying the European Union more likely than it has been since the Article 50 notice was given,” said Chief Minister Picardo. “What will happen is still not clear, but I believe it is likely Parliament will tomorrow take a 'no deal' exit off the table.”

2/8/18 17:01

There is a ‘gender imbalance’ when it comes to running Gibraltar, claim female politicians

2 GIBRALTAR’S echelons of power have been compared to those in Iran due to its lack of female representation. It comes after the Rock ranked 154th out of 191 countries in a study on women in power by the International Parliamentary Union. “The study says we are only slightly better than countries like Qatar, Congo and Iran,” said Together Gibraltar leader Marlene Hassan Nahon. “We look back over the last 50 years and there is only a handful of women that have graced Parliament with their presence. “As a result there is a void of female role models as we haven’t been there to add our perspective.” Speaking on International Women’s Day, Nahon also re-

By John Culatto

vealed she was once advised to ‘find a man’ to lead her new party. “For them, the visual is that a man has to lead,” she added during a debate at City Hall. “It’s all about awareness and Humiliating changing these visuals.” Brexit Secretary Stephen Rival GSLP MP Samantha Barclay had told MPs the Sacramento agreed, saying deal would deliver the prothere was ‘obviously’ a ‘gentections they had asked for, der imbalance’ on the Rock. including on the status of “Overnight, I became minisGibraltar. ter for equality and I rememIn his closing remarks, Barber quite a hostile reaction clay said: “The PM has been when we first started cel- BEHIND: Study said Gibraltar only ranked clear that the government ebrating International Womalongside Iran stands behind sovereignty en’s Day,” she said. “Instead, we want for Gibraltar, and that will “I had to explain that the rea- that it is because of to show Mayor Kaiane Aldorino Lo- In one of her last these public bar- pez, a former Miss World son we are raising awareness riers and biased that speeches before she is due to never change.” women winner, believed however, If MPs reject the no-deal opis not to give a particular ad- are at a disadvantage al- that gender roles had begun step down from her position, tion, there will be a further vantage to women. ready.” she said: to change. “Children should understand vote on a potential extension that women are not made of Article 50 on Thursday. only to handle household A total of 75 Conservative chores or take responsibility MPs rebelled against the deal whereas three Labour of home and family. “Instead, both men and wom- MPs rebelled against their en are responsible of home leader by voting in favour. and family as well as the In a statement the EU’s Chief Negotiator, Michel UK BASED working world. Lettings | Sales “Women should identify their Barnier said: “The impasse strengths and abilities and can only be solved in the UK. Reliable private hire transfer Investments | Relocations move toward a world of em- Our “no-deal” preparations services for any occasion are now more important powerment.” Commercial and Residential • Luxury vehicles than ever before.” Door to door service Airport collections Weddings transport • Sightseeing day trips • Restaurant shuttles •

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Lying scum By Gillian Keller

ACTIVISTS from far right political Vox, have been caught fabricating party a hoax about 'radical feminists' beating young girls. It comes after the leader of the Mallorca branch told a 8M Women's Day event the trio, including his own daughter, that were attacked by a group of 'radical feminists' in Son Servera. He claimed the girls were lefts with 'knocked out teeth, a split lip and possibly a broken jaw', at the event in the town. One of the teenage youths was apparently still at the hospital with the jaw injury. The story duly made front pages around Mallorca, but despite public doubts, anti-feminist party kept up the charade, the retelling and posting details of the 'attack' on social media. 'Witnesses' even came forward describing the 'brutal attack'. However, the Guardia Civil soon discovered that no such incident had been reported, and no medical centre had received a patient matching the injuries. Finally, on Saturday, they confirmed story to be false, with Vox admitting the they had been spoofed. The news led to Son Servera town host a protest on Sunday against hall to the party and against spreading 'fake news' about the town. “We regret that a celebratory day for women has been overshadowed by an alleged aggression,” said a spokesman. He assured the town would not ‘attitudes that harm the good nametolerate of Son Servera’. While the party has since denounced ‘activist’ for making the story up, a local protest was due to be held in the another town last night as we went to press.

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MPs join battle to get millions back for expats who lost out to rogue FX firm EXPATS in Mallorca have EXCLUSIVE slammed the lack of action over By Tim McNulty a foreign exchange firm collapse, despite British authorities claiming an investigation is ‘a matter their funds since then. One expat, based in Cas Catala, of priority.’ Dozens of clients, most of them Pam Gardner has grown frusBritish expats, lost millions of trated at attempts by the UK’s euros when the Palma-based Financial Conduct Authority company Premier FX suddenly (FCA) to ‘wriggle’ out of responstopped trading in July last year. sibility. Victims have demanded answers “People in the UK just think it but have been left completely in was a case of rich expats with the dark and unable to access too much money, they don’t realise it was people’s life savings that were lost, money they planned to retire on,” she told the Olive Press this week. She added she was ‘upset’ that local boss Nick Jones has apparently washed his hands of the case and ‘fled’ the island. She has now launched a civil case against the firm, lodged in Palma. It comes despite British MPs now stepping in to demand the FCA probes the case ‘as a matter of priority.’ UNDER FIRE: Local boss Nick Jones MP for Dover, Charlie

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www.theolivepress.es or paid for) The Olive Press September 13th celebrates its - September 26th 300th issue on mainland... find EXCLUSIVE 2018 the out By Elisa Menendez English newspaper why we are Spain’s best in our supplement inside AN expat business demanding action owner is after neighbours put up ‘illegal’ bollards blocking his shop. Martin White, 54, business Hot Springclaims his has been forced to Mallorca Is Bilbao tastfor almost three cease trade the series of 15-inchweeks, after ier than San Page 6 posts were installed. Sebastian? As well as blocking Page 12 delivery trucks, it is putting off clients, Page 20 he insists. “I’m suffering a loss a day. Delivery vansof €1,000 can’t get through to drop White, from Hull, off stock,” told the Olive Press. He has now called Alcudia town hall, in police and to demand answers.via a lawyer, The problem began when White, who is co-owner of the business with David EXCLUSIVE 56, arrived to find Camping, By Elisa Menendez bollards blocking the series of his shop on August 27. After contracting EXPATS in Mallorca a legal firm may have he was told by both lost millions town hall that the police and cious collapse over the suspiposts were of ‘illegal’. change firm beinga foreign exThe businessman ‘criminal activity’. probed over is now set to take the community Dozens of victims have lost up bours to court for of neigh- to €400,000 each in life savtion and loss of discrimina- ings after Premier business for FX Limited €30,000 in compensation. was forced into administration The posts have by the UK’s Financial “The Conduct moneynext thing I knew, the amount stalled in front ofalso been in- Authority (FCA). was gone. of money’ the Muslimowned supermarket It comes after the about it,” added the I feel sick collapse, according from the next to pensioner. to a close him, although ‘mysteriously’, operated from firm - which “I just don’t understand friend. make financial why no The Portals-based not the garage the tugal and LondonPalma, Por- other media organisations transfers via other side. Barclays even after expat pal, “It’s totally illegal,” on who has also stopped trading - suddenly the island are tackling the compahe said. ny had ceased trading. lost this.” “You can’t just put following the deathon July 27, In particular, sisted Jones had money, in- boss Rexstrew, who them on one she wants been of director, know also lived in The FCA has since discovered side without the other.” Peter Rexstrew. of the whereabouts to to ‘go into hiding’ after advised the Algarve, she was given he was warning To make matters no that the company, set up in of Since then hundreds Nick Jones, the island’s ‘lambasted’. of the collapse. worse, three 2006, was operating of clients, director, former “I know days after the bollards many of them “I simply found out without who has him closely and full authorisation. expats, have when I tried one of the neighbours went in, been left he to for over a month. not been seen said all employees completely in the were in total onemake a transaction but no It was forced into administrabucket of water over threw a dark and unable She is angry that shock with the news. would answer him from tion to access their above. funds. out an assurance he had sent then emailed and the phone. I debtsafter being unable to pay “He is not in hiding I received email of the advised he has been automatic and was He has also denounced company’s financial reply saying they this vent’ following ‘cash flow insolthe incistability while to keep a low profile ceased dent to the police. Rexstrew’s sudon June 20, just the investigation trading and there’dhad den death, Assurance is on- no further leaving his two chil“I’ve had the shop be death of Rexstrew.days after the going. And while transactions. dren as joint directors. and I’ve never had for five years Victims have now However, reality, he had no a director, in “I immediately smelt Victims have so access to the added. a rat,” she action group with formed an derstands the Olive Press un- main accounts.” “The administratora problem. far received nearly 200 that very little information ing told us this wasof the build- members - many of worked out of an Jones, who She added: “All this When them in a personal the Balearics office on Pal- tressing is very dis- tion she called the UK’s Ac- company’s appointed from the vendetta from residents,” ma’s prestigious Calle - demanding imadminFraud, an operator istrators and he mediate answers. La Ram- He has for him and his family. plained added. bla, has also lost he knew nothing ex- they will neverBarclays and fear been completely ‘a substantial One British expat, about lam- it. get their money basted. I understand back. Palma, told the Olive based in angry but there have people are “I’ve been stuck for two months been some without has no idea what has Press she really nasty comments. that money which happened to the €30,000 she I need “It is quite clear Criminal was holdthat Peter’s “It’s for my business. ing with Premier children were taking not just affecting “It’s a real mindfield FX. “I had used them and like business, not Nick.” over the buying holiday homes, people banging your for many it is also head years and there affecting Another victim told a brick wall,” added against were never the Olive can’t pay business owners, who any problems,” explained Press she has lost British retiree, who another staff or clients.” the 69-year-old, who has lost €400,000 due to a staggering Most victims had money. Premier the collapse. FX and Barmain anonymous. asked to reised by Premier been prom- clays failed The UK-based businesswoman, “I had transferred money was being FX that their for press. to comment in time who lived for decades Untitled-1.pdf An FCA spokesperheld in ‘segreBAFFLED: By 1 16/06/2017 15:36 and was waiting the money gal, has made three in Portu- gated, personal accounts’ son bollards for the exmonthly Barclays, change rate to improve. with are told the Olive Press: “We transactions with very concerned that but administrators Premier FX now MISSING: Nick there for 12 years. think this was not was criminal activity Jones the case. taking It is Despite being a friend place at Premier of former clientsalso believed that many tion to missing FX in relawere still permitted funds. “We to are investigating the business and will take action against any individuals we broken the law in find to have order to return money to customers of the firm.”

DIGGING FRANCO

have been left in terrible financial hardship. “The authorities need to get to the bottom of this urgently.” The move comes after the firm - which operated from Palma, Portugal and London - suddenly stopped trading on July 27. Victims told the Olive Press last year that they had lost up to €400,000 each in life savings after the company was forced into administration by the UK authorities. An action group was formed and now has well over 200 members - many of them in the Balearics - demanding immediate answers. One claimed an initial investigation by Surrey police had apparently been scrapped due to ‘insufficient funding’. The company had been regulated by the FCA for money transfer services but its customers were encouraged to

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deposit funds, to be used as a type of savings vehicle. It did not have a licence to offer this service, it has since Pipe ban emerged. Pipe ban The company appeared to have got into trouble after its owner Peter Rexstrew died suddenly in Mallorca. The Olive Press can reveal that he had recently started renting a new property in the exclusive Portals area, with a new girlfriend, when he passed away. The pair had been seen out enjoying expensive meals and ‘living the high life’. The FCA did not get back to the Olive Press before deadline. Ave de Gabriel Roca 4,

FRUIT growers quia are facing ain the Axar60% reduction in water FRUIT growers usein from the the La AxarVinuela quia are reservoir facing a 60% with no solution tion sight.use from reducinin water the La The Junta Vinuela has with reservoir decided to no solimit its lution inuse as the reservoir sight. is already The at 22.7% Junta has capacity decidedand couldits to limit drop use even as thelower reservoir if the dry weather is already at 22.7% keeps up. could drop even capacity and dry weather keepslower if the up.

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than permitted. Although the town hall and developer than permitted. maintain this excess was later Although the town corrected, hall and the judge ruledmaintain developer that the rectificathis extion would cess was later have corrected, taken place the after the judge ruled granting that theof rectificathe licence, tion would so does have nottaken count. place The building after the granting has 61 of the apartliments so cence, and does 46 not parking spaces. building has count. The 61 apartThe original ments and 46 parking building spacwas granted planning es. permission by The original then mayor building Enrique was Bolin in 2001. granted planning sion by then mayor permisEnrique Bolin in 2001.

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POLICE officers along a beach in have formed a human wall deter La Linea to ensure drug smugglers construction that the as a drop POLICE from using the beach of a have officers beachformed wall went off zone. The wall, ahead.wall A combined a human along between a beach in La Linea deter drug smugglers the church police presence to ensure Senora del Carmen of Nuestra construction that the as from of Guardia local using of a beach andwall and off Civil, the beach a drop thewent national perimeter of thewall, zone. officers were present The ahead.wall A fishing port of Lachurch fears between grew that combined as Atunara, drug police Senora del Carmen the smugglers of hopes presence Nuestra to local and disrupt the of Guardia would try Civil, work. of the fishing port and the perimeter wall fears and national officers were present of La Atunara, hopes grew as to and disrupt that drug smugglers would try the work.

Page 1 He even got himself known radio station, a financial advice slot on a well through which he From Page 1 ing victims. He snared unsuspecteven got himself a financial advice However, known a comprehensive radio slot on a well station, Olive posed Press which ing his scams that through investigation he snared victims. unsuspectinvolved stamps, exWe also revealed However, coins and gold. a comprehensive how he and his close wined his Olive posed andscams Presspal Barry Nathan dinedthat investigation up to a dozen involved excriminals, through stamps, We also the food column. revealed and gold. how he and his closecoinsanonymously, He eventually wined and dined pal Barry Nathan fled up the to a country dozen criminals, but we soon followinganonymously, through our expose, tracked the food him down to the column. changed He UK, where he had his name eventually fledbythe deed poll andfollowing country antiques was selling but we soon on eBay ourcoins from tracked and expose, a small him downBerkshire He was quickly to the UK, changed cottage. his name found where he had guiltypoll by deed under people and andEnglish antiques was selling law ofcoins givenfrom on eBay conning a suspended and a small Berkshire prison cottage. sentence He was quickly only due to health found guilty reasons. “And because under English law people and given he apromised of conning suspended to prison go back toonly never sentence his due online cons,”reasons. to health one of the Britishbecause “And victim explained. he promised to Butback this to go never is apparently his online cons,” not theone caseofwith two victims British the victimclaiming explained. he is still using eBaythis But to is sell ‘dodgy’ coins apparently not the and stamps fromvictims case two his unpaid with flat in claiming he Brighton, is still using ing the useBay tonames sell ‘dodgy’ ‘gqtrading’ coins and and ‘gqtrading2’. his unpaid stamps from flat Brighton, us“Wethe arenames ing pretty sure heinhas broken his and bail conditions‘gqtrading’ ing2’. and will have to‘gqtradgo back finally “We areto prison,” pretty suresaid one broken he has victim. his “Theconditions bail nerve of this man and willishave unbelievable.” Hisback to finally landlord go to prison,” last night said one insisted something victim. he should have “The nerve was up man of this known fromisthe start. unbelievable.” “When His we metlast landlord to sign theinsisted night contracts slippery, I went thoughthave something heI should he was to pay was up a bit known fromfor my the coffee only for the tell me he start. “When we had barista met left without to sign paying his the contracts He continued: slippery, bill.” he was to I thought I went“He paid to pay a bit forfor the my first only thenme coffee couple tell just hestopped. months forofthe had left without He told us baristabut to his account paying duecontinued: to a money“He He his bill.”had been frozen laundering paid for the investigation, ably true. first couplewhich then “He thenHe just stopped. of months is probtold us us but to his told stopaccount cused contacting due of harrassment. tous a money had him beenand laundering investigation, acfrozen “Nowtrue. ably he is claiming “He which is probthen told he is seriously ill make payments. cused and can’t us of harrassment.us to stop contacting him work and acto “We’ll he “Now seeishim in court.” claiming he is seriously ill make payments. and can’t work to “We’ll see him in court.” Opinion Page 6

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14 fire €7 bosses millionhave in public arrested been funds. INSIDEfor allegedly The Policia embezzling Nacional €7 million found in that funds. public the Consortium of Bomberos The Policia Cadiz Nacional tookfound out mass early A HOTEL is to that the retirement insurbe knocked ance policies.Consortium of down for not having Bomberos Cadiz took out But when mass class! A HOTEL is to be enough early retirement their employees insurknocked retired ance early, chiefs siphoned Benalmadena’s down policies. for not having Vista off the But money from the de Rey must be Hotelenough when class! paydemolished outs. early,their employees retired within three months, Benalmadena’s chiefs siphoned Hotela court Authorities off Vista the money also found hasRey de ruled, must be demolished disthe paycrepancies in from outs. Andalucia’s the consorwithin three months, Superiora Court tium’s training courses. Authorities court of Justice has ruled, ruled that the found disLarge sums also crepancies howere in tel falls shortSuperior Andalucia’s thepaid to a consorcompany of its four-star tium’s to provide training Court courses. training requirement. of Justice ruled courses, Large but no sums evidence were paid tohas tel falls short of that the hobeen found a company its four-star tothat thesetraining provide courses requirement. took place. courses, Probing but no evidence has Meanwhile, been found that these It began probing irregularities courses were place. the three took also found Probing star hotel and apartment subsidies, whichin grants and Meanwhile, cops believe block It irregularities began in 2011 probing after it were also usedfound the was to pay three denounced in for star private grants hotel overand and trips. planning subsidies, apartment rules which cops believe whichin block set2011 The irregularities aside were after theitplot used to pay for wasfor dea date four star hotel back nounced private to 2008 and over planning trips. only. cops believe rules According which least irregularities set aside The to thethe €7 million has been at PGOU plot town for date back stoplan star four len2008 an apartment by those to hotel only.block wasa andatcops the top. not permitted According least €7 million hasbelieve at to the and PGOU it town also breached plan len by those at the been stoan apartment rules by being block top.

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T has only taken five years, but the Olive Press Costa Blanca edition has finally arrived. Half a decade of research and planning - and with something of a recession to contend with in the interim - our investigative, community newspaper brand, designed for expats of ALL nationalities, has landed in Alicante and Valencia. With a dynamic mix of news stories, investigations, features, reviews and columns, we will, once again, be offering a much better product than our rivals just like back here at home.

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HAVING choked and chucked in his three Michelin stars just 22 days after winning the last accolade, Dani Garcia has courted yet more controversy. The Marbella wunderkind has decided to take on the green lobby opening a chiringuito on a virgin beach near Tarifa. Environmentalists will no doubt be scratching their heads as to why Garcia has not opted to open a restaurant in another city, or at least at an already existing beach site. He either has wealthy backers or more money than sense in not heeding the warnings. Plonking a restaurant and 400 car parking spaces on the edge of a beautiful beach, is the kind of half-baked idea that gives Andalucia a bad name. The mysteriously titled Eolo project will not be ready until summer, and Garcia, with his influence in Andalucia could have the project stopped with the click of his fingers. It’s up to you Dani.

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March 27th - April 9th 2019

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Spain and Gibraltar’s best English daily news website The top three most read stories on www.theolivepress.es in the past two weeks are:

- Dead body dumped on Spain’s Costa del Sol

was of young foreigner, 23 and had at least 10 gunshot wounds (21,413)

- DRUG HILLS: British expats in upmarket

urbanisation on Spain’s Costa del Sol wake up to disgraceful graffiti (14,866)

- Gibraltarians fuming after Ronnie O’Sulli-

van says he’d rather sleep in pig sty than play snooker in Gibraltar (8,969)

Visitors: 270,691

Page views: 370,548

Average time on site: 5:04

NIGHTMARE: The unamed Brit (top left), Goya’s Saturn Devouring His Son (right), the Miguel Servet hospital (left) and (below) Dr Lago

suggested the man had posted online prior to the incident, advertising for someone to perform the amputation. And almost a week on from the atrocity, the expat’s housemate was arrested amidst reports of a gruesome pact between the two friends. Policia Nacional announced the flatmate had been arrested on suspicion of ‘wounding’ and was being held for

DARK: Goya’s Two Old Men

questioning at a police station in the re a person city. identifies with At first the story was compared to the the sex oppohigh profile case of John Wayne Bobbitt, site to that to castrated by his vengeful wife in 1993. which he or But that was before Spanish press be- she was biologan reporting that the victim, who is be- gically born. In lieved to have moved to Spain in 2014, other words, was ‘not happy’ with being a man and people don’t struggled with his gender identity. identify with Something appears to have driven this their own bioseemingly ‘normal’ thirtysomething to logical sex. ‘ask a friend’ to cut off his own penis. Dr Jesus De LIke Goya’s paintings which grew pro- Lago has foundly more troubled in the artist’s been trealater years, this British expat may have ting patients experienced his own personal descent with gender into darkness. Whatever the true story, dysphoria for tragically that evening in Zaragoza, life almost two decades. He shared with seemed to imitate art. the Olive Press how, despite Spain’s Though a rare event, acts of genital progressive stance on the issue, life is self-mutilation have been hard for people who are reported around the world not happy with their genand throughout history, der identity. Acts of genital Speaking from his clinic going back to religious practice in ancient Rome. Madrid, Dr Lago said: self-mutilation in A recent incident in 2016 “Of course it is a very have been saw a man in India chocomplicated problem to pping of his penis in a fit reported around solve, we are only starting of rage at the fact his wife to open our minds just a had not slept with him in little. the world 10 years. “You will find people in According to research caSpain with those prorried out in 1979 by Harblems without the possibivard Psychologist James E Groves, the lity of finding any help. majority of recorded cases have invol- We will see stronger changes not only ved people with psychosis. The rest can in Spain but also in other countries as be attributed to either bizzare autoero- we recognise that these people need tism or crude attempts at sex change. help.” Transgender individuals have consis- Dr Lago takes pride in his work and tently been shown to have higher rates sees sex change operations as the only of many psychiatric conditions, often way to help people with ‘gender dysphoworsened by societal discrimination ria’ get better. and trauma. He added: “Nowadays surgery is the It appears this ‘well liked’ University of most important thing we can do for Oxford-educated English teacher could trans people, I have treated many and have be driven to act by a condition I can say now that 99% of people after known medically as ‘gender dysphoria’. surgery felt like they had a completely Gender dysphoria is a condition whe- new life.”

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THE Olive Press web statistics are nothing short of amazing. Our rapid growth over the last six months shows no sign of abating as our regular daily visitors nudges a figure of 20,000 a day. It is perhaps, what you might expect from a media group that invests in journalists, not scared to ask questions and investigate stories properly. Providing original content on an almost hourly basis, seven days a week, means that our Alexa ranking (above) - created by Amazon.com, the world’s biggest online retailer - has continued to soar. As well as zooming into the top 200,000 sites in the world, we are in the top 13,000 in Spain, while our bitter rivals languish outside the top 20,000. And, if you were to doubt Amazon’s own statistics (believing they were in some way manipulated) then you could use Google’s very own analytical programme to verify our http://www.theolivepress.es Analytics www.theolivepress.es claims. FYI, they show that our worst day over the last fortnight Audience Overview was 11,300 unique visitors (users), while our best day (see below) had 26,780 unique visitors (users). All Users Users Average100.00% time on the site OVER three minutes. Is it any wonder that we were voted the BEST expat paOverview per in Spain and second best in the world at the London TESCA awards? We don’t pay for our awards, we don’t buy followers for our Users Twitter feed and we don’t acquire ‘likes’ for our Fa3,000 cebook pages. http://www.theolivepress.es  Go long to report Olive Press it is all 100% organic. And may it Analytics www.theolivepress.es At the 2,000 remain that way.

Audience Overview

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Contact Tim (+34) 677 195 638

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Towering risk

Fight the power!

Expats fear pylons will ruin charity retreat, while thousands more could be affected

AN autistic child and his foster mother could be forced from their Andalucian home over plans to install hundreds of giant electricity pylons. Paulina Klein Schiphorst, 59 runs the Familia ESTÁ, a Granada association dedicated to the welfare of families with children needing special care, in the Alpujarras. She fears that 17-year-old Juanjo, who has autism, will be severely impacted by three giant pylons to be put up near their retreat near Orgiva. The Dutch expat told the Olive Press: “When Juanjo is upset it is hard for him to explain what

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is disturbing him, his mind works like that of a three-yearold child in the body of a teenager. It is impossible to foresee what he may do if these three giant towers are put up.” It comes as the Olive Press launched its ‘Fight the Power’ campaign last issue in a bid to force electric company Red Electrica Espana (REE) to reconsider its plan to install 352 giant pylons across the Lecrin Valley and the Alpujarras. Paulina founded the centre for holidaying families in 2015 with the main goal of ensuring Juanjo had a permanent home and appropriate support.

SCARED: Expats “It is hard for parents of autistic children to find somewhere to go on holiday,” added Paulina. “We offer a place where families can also have temporary relief from their care task so that every family member can relax during the holidays. “The towers will be a death kick for the association.” The latest revelation comes as a new map obtained by the Olive Press sets out the true scale of the mega electrification project. It is clear that many thousands of homes will be affected around Andalucia, outside of the Granada area, from the map by the Agencia Andaluza de la Energia. According to official plans, two lines will affect the Costa del Sol, one near Monda and another near Benahavis.

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Beach Banksy Local ‘Banksy’ attracts world attention replicating masterpieces on the streets of Spain A MALAGA artist is proving just how beautiful street art can be with his jaw-dropping replicas of some of the world’s most iconic works.

NEW ART: Atlantis

Mural purpose ESTEPONA Council has unveiled a new mural that pays tribute to the female artists behind the town’s famous paintings. Jose Fernandez Rios is behind the new work of art, which depicts a woman in classical Greek style. The mural, titled ‘Atlantas’, represents woman as a fundamental pillar of life, supporting the world in her hands, and was unveiled on International Women’s Day. The 170 m2 work graces the El Pinar building off Avenida Andalucia, opposite Mercadona.

CLASSIC: Graffiti covered

A BRITISH expat in Benalmadena has self-published a romantic novel about the ‘powerful depths of flamenco’, set in Andalucia. Julie Silverton, a former journalist and business developer, is also currently exploring the possibility of making it into a film. Entitled Helen’s Love Surges to Flamenco’s Pulse, the 183-page read centres on the love affair between dashing flamenco teacher Antonio Barranos and He-

Julio Anaya Cabanding, 23, recreates the works of maestros like Vermeer, Rembrandt and Lucian Freud - complete with trompe l’oeil gilded frames - in derelict and neglected spaces. The former Malaga University of Fine Arts student, who began drawing from the age of six, replicates classic paintings with incredible accuracy, complete with painted frames. “I like the idea of ‘stealing’

DERELICT: Cabanding’s art in unlikely spots a painting and putting it in another place, a desolate place that you never relate to it because it does not belong to that world,” the artist revea-

WRITER: Silverton

including his brother, a priest, are determined to help its victims.”

led. “I like to create that conflict. I usually visit these places with a friend who paints graffiti. I am a studio artist and I do not know many places; it was my friend who one day said to me: ‘Hey, let’s paint the street.’ — and I said, ‘Ok!’” His works, now plastered across Andalucia and Europe, are created with acrylic paint that he mixes himself to make sure his replica is as faithful to the original as possible. He added: “Until recently I had a studio at the university, but I do not need it anymore; my studio is now the street, it is the place I paint at that moment.” To find out more about his street paintings and upcoming exhibits visit julioanayacabanding.com.

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len Middleton, an English schoolteacher who falls for him at his dance school in Sevilla. Julie said: “It’s a dramatic story driven by the passion of the dance, but it’s much more. “It touches upon a social evil that plagues Spain human trafficking - and how Antonio’s family,

March 27th - April 9th 2019

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LOUIS Louis in Estepona Port is the place to be on April 10, as rock band the Fleshtones hit the stage at 10:30pm with tickets from €13.

Paw effort ESTEPONA Palacio hosts the Adana Dog Show on April 14 from 11:00am - 3:00pm with dozens of stalls to keep you and your pooch entertained.

Starmen FOR just €5 entry you can watch David Bowie tribute band The Spiders From Marbs belt out the classics at Bonanza Bar in Benalmadena on March 30.

10 www.theolivepress.es 10 March 27th - April 9th 2019

They did not pass!T

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Historian Pedro Corral reveals the gripping truth about how Madrid held on in an extraordinary last-ditch battle over fascism as the Spanish Civil War drew to a close 80 years ago. By Heather Galloway

FIGHTING SPIRIT: No Pasaran rally cry

HERE are no media reports or photographs of the last battle of the Spanish Civil War - a Republican victory - not fascist Franco’s - won on the banks of Madrid’s Manzanares River exactly eight decades ago. The Nationalist attack on Republican lines was top secret, unknown even to dictator Franco, and had consequences that the war’s victors have preferred to forget … until now. Only three weeks before the end of the bloody war on April 1, 1939, it perfectly typifies the fighting spirit of the Spanish, who refused to be beaten by a vicious nazi sympathiser. With the city nearly surrounded by the Nationalist enemy, they fought on under one last rallying cry of ‘No Pasaran!’ (They shall not pass) and even took hundreds of prisoners as part of the victory. The story of the battle was naturally buried by the victors of the war, which saw half a million dead, and quashed the dreams of three vainglorious colonels who wanted to be the first through the gates of the

HEROINE: Dolores ‘La Pasionaria’ Ibarruri ners seized by the Republicans have been buried for 80 years in the Civil War Archives in Salamanca. Only now have they finally seen the light of day. “It was an absolute paradox that the Republicans should have won this battle when the war was all but won by Franco,” says Corral. tions the colonels went into battle Indeed, by March 1939, Franco’s mode and managed to compound troops had taken all of the north of the humiliation of 1936 and the la- Spain, including the Basque Region ter years of inactivity. and Catalunya and only had a third According to Corral, their loss had of Andalucia and Castile, as well as much to do with the ‘contagious Murcia and Valencia, to seize, plus of spirit of ‘No pasarán!’, which was course the capital. coined by celebrated communist The three colonels, whose troops leader Dolores Ibarruri, a Spanish were entrenched in the hilly areas heroine well worth celebrating in west of the city, including Casa de the month of International Women’s Campo and El Pardo, believed their Day. bid for glory would be a literal walk “She galvanised the Spanish and in the park. harnessed their passion. ‘They shall Britain and France had declared not pass!’ she screamed. And they their support for Franco; food and didn’t!” he says. supplies were running out and moral Only the timing of the episode among the Republican forces, led allowed it to be conveniently swept by communist leader Juan Négrin, under the carpet. And declarations could not have been lower. from 19 of the 57 Nationalist priso- “Négrin thought he could keep the

It was an absolute paradox. That the Republicans should have won this battle when the war had all but been won by Franco. Pedro Corral

capital after a long three-year siege. According to historian Pedro Corral, the trio, Alberto Caso, Eduardo Losas and Joaquín Rios of the 20th, 16th and 18th divisions had hatched their plan behind Franco’s back. “If they had managed to enter Madrid, Franco would not have ticked them off,” Corral explains. The only clear instructions issued from Franco’s headquarters in Burgos were to enter Madrid WITHOUT conflict – probably to avoid a repeat of the Nationalists’ humiliating defeat there in November, 1936. “Franco didn’t want another propaganda victory for the Republicans,” he adds emphatically. But ignoring their leader’s instruc-

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March 27th - April 9th 2019

resistance up until the democracies fighting in the war in Europe came to their aid,” says Corral. But Segismundo Casado, who was commanding the Republican Army in 1939, thought otherwise. Deciding the time had come for the Republicans to lay down their arms, and with the socialists and anarchists on his side, he carried out a coup d’état on March 5, deposing Négrin and setting up the National Defence Council to see if he could strike a deal with Franco. The communists staged a counter coup however, and by March 7 the streets of Madrid were filled with the bodies of the various Republican factions fighting amongst themselves. It was a disaster. “The colonels were getting news from

inside Madrid that the enemy trenches But the news reaching Franco’s three had been deserted,” says Corral. colonels was false. Franco Salinas Rico, 27, a peasant from Despite mostly being conscripts, NéLogroño, described the upbeat mood grin’s communist forces mustered the among the Nationalists energy to man two to his later Republican fronts simultaneously, interrogators. “The courage of fighting the anarchists In a record from the on one and the Nationathe Republican lists at bay on the other. archives, he said they were in good spirits and Far from a walk in the soldiers ‘believed the war would park, the offensive pronot last much longer as ved arduous. was really the Reds were fighting In El Pardo, the Natioimpressive” among themselves’. nalist’s 20th division atMeanwhile, the declaratacked the Republicans tion of Marcelino Alonso under the command of Sánchez, 21, a bricklayer from Sala- Colonel Guillermo Ascanio and while manca, said they expected a ‘quick end they reached the first line of enemy trento the war’. ches they lost 45 men with 229 more injured. In the Casa de Campo, the Nationalists’ 16th division lost another 335 men while 117 were injured and 52 taken and myths of lot a Intriguingly of the 19 statements Corral who believes captive. taken of the Nationalist prisoners romanticism has grown up around Though the cost was higher, they made propato due War Civil Spanish the insisted all almost today, available slightly more headway, advancing a kilos. volunteer the by d generate ganda politics. in interest they had no metre into Republican lines around the who people of full were fronts “The educamost the According to Corral, lake, where they were stopped. know even didn’t ted was a man who “I spoke to one high-ranking officer on gun a fire to how could type. The rest Franco’s side who told me that from the been had who and were illiterate peamoment they emerged from their trentheir from hauled sants and labouches the air that was filled with bullets,” villages to fight. rers drafted in from says Corral. who those of Half Andalucia Galicia, “It was a deluge, the likes of which he in drafted were ura. and Extremad hadn’t seen in his life and he had spent hid. or fled either “But by then the three years in the war.” civil the was That fighting soldiers Less is known about the 18th division’s two wasn’t It war. on both sides were Villaverde assault to the south, but the blocks. al ideologic more than 90% total cost of the escapade to the Natiochaotic.” was It conscripts,” says CONSCRIPTS: Soldiers in Madrid nalists was 94 dead, 364 injured and 57 prisoners.

Illiterate and no interest in politics

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BATTLE SCENE: The trench network attack at Casa de Campo

Accidental hero Little is known about the curious defection of disgruntled Lieutenant Colonel Ramón Lloro Regales, 33, from Franco’s 16th division who is thought to have warned the enemy of the imminent attack. His actions took place after he had turned up drunk to the meeting on March 7 that the colonels had called to plan the three-pronged offensive on Madrid. Seeing the state he was in, Colonel Losa however, stripped him of his command and told him to await further orders. Infuriated, Lloro promptly deserted and vanished, with Republicans later recalling seeing him walking past their trenches in the early hours of the morning on March 8, advising them to prepare for the assault. “The courage of the Republicans was really impressive,” says Corral. With their tails between their legs, the trio of colonels tried to hide the losses from Franco, but were eventually forced into confessing nine days later naturally blaming the entire fiasco on a Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Lloro, who is said to have defected to the Republicans to warn them a night before the attack (see pull out box). By that time, the battle alone between general Casado and the communists was over with almost 2,000 dead. On March 12, having executed various figures in the communist high command, Casado communicated to Franco that he wanted to negotiate peace.

Franco replied on March 19 that he would only accept unconditional surrender and Casado gave the order to disarm on March 27. The following day, Franco’s forces entered the capital, 20 days after the colonels’ bid for glory was thwarted. According to Corral, the trio of colonels and their troops were relegated to the back of the procession down the Paseo de la Castellana and the embarrassing episode was never referred to again. Three days later the entire war was over. Pedro Corral is author of Eso no estaba en mi libro de la Guerra Civil, published by Almuzara.

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OOKING for something different to do this upcoming holy week? Why not check out Benalmadena’s coolest castle. The Colomares Castillo Monumento was built by three people between 1987 and 1994 and is an ode to explorer Christopher Columbus.

Castle of cool It unifies all styles, including Byzantine, Romanesque, Arabic and Gothic and has been described as a ‘history book carved in stone about the 15th century of Spanish culture.’ So you can take in the stunning surroundings in the sun before popping down to Malaga just 15 minutes away.

Police uncover three pipes spewing dangerous sewage into Nerja waters RAW sewage is being pumped out of three pipes just off the shores of Nerja, sparking health fears. An investigation by the Guardia Civil uncovered the pipes spewing untreated sewage into the sea, including mounds of wet wipes.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Triple threat

SLUDGE: Raw sewage sparks fears

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The three pipes, located at Burriana beach, Torrecilla beach and the Maro cliffs, were found by the environmental protection arm of the Guardia Civil, Seprona, alongside scientists from the Spanish Institute of Oceanography. They have been described as an ‘uncontrolled underwater dump’ by authorities. The Institute of Toxicology in Sevilla, which analysed water samples, said the presence of fecal bacteria poses a risk of gastroenteritis and skin infections. The Junta has been blamed for not providing water treatment plants in the popular seaside resort. Nerja mayor Rosa Arrabal insisted the treatment of waste was ‘a municipal responsibility only once the infrastructure is in place, but not before’.

One plant began construction in 2014 in Nerja and should have been running three years ago, but has been stalled due to financial problems and differences within the council. Another waste treatment plant is presumed to be entering a test phase shortly, having been started in 2013. Seprona has spoken to 16 officials about the sewage, while the matter has now been passed to a judge to continue the investigation. Operation Vastum - ‘vastum’ means ‘waste’ in Latin - was launched in November 2017 into public officials flouting rules that prohibit dumping of raw sewage into rivers and seas. Spain has been fined by the EU for breaches of environmental protection laws in the past.

Who killed the sparrow? AROUND 30 million sparrows have disappeared from Spain in the last 10 years it has been revealed. The Spanish Society of Ornithology (SEO), claims the decline over the last decade represents a 21% reduction in the bird’s populations. “This decline is alarming, because if we do not change this trend we could find ourselves very soon with cities without sparrows,” a spokesperson of the group said. One fifth of the ‘common sparrow’ species now live in cities and are consequently threatened by toxic insecticides, high noise levels and pollution.

Grande disaster A MAJOR oil slick of over 2,200 tonnes is nearing Spain’s northern coast after a boat sank near the Bay of Biscay. Container ship Grande America was travelling from Hamburg to Casablanca ten days ago when it caught fire, capsized and sank. All 27 crew were rescued from the vessel, which was carrying 2,000 cars, including 37 of the most powerful Porsche 911s worth around €260,000 each. Marine officials said they are making daily assessments of the environmental consequences of the accident. The oil had not yet reached the coast of Spain by Monday, despite initial warnings it could arrive within four days. At the time of the incident Vice Adm Jean-Louis Lozier, head of the regional maritime authority said that 10 tonnes of hydrochloric acid and 70 tonnes of sulphuric acid were among the other substances onboard. However he added that damage would be ‘localised’ and ‘would not have serious consequences for the environment’.

Real change REAL Betis has become the first La Liga club to go carbon neutral after it signed up to the UN’s Climate Neutral Now initiative. The Sevilla-based club will now install on-site renewable energy generation as well as waste collection and treatment systems. “We will become a channel for communicating the urgency and the opportunities for taking climate action, starting in-house with our players and staff,” said the club’s business director business director Ramon Alarcon. It comes after fellow La Liga side Real Sociedad FC revealed it would sustainably collect the sunflower seed shells that football fans in Spain traditionally discard like confetti on the ground and turn them into fertiliser.

G A

OLIVE PRESS VISITS THE M1 HUB

We thought it was about time we had someone from the Olive Press visit us to see what we are up to behind the scenes. News Editor Laurence Dollimore came to visit and had a tour around the M1 hub. Here he is with some of the M1 team. Laurence (3rd from the left) will be researching the timeshare market and how M1 are helping timeshare owners get out of their contracts and receive potential payouts.

The victory spring snow-ball effect Good news - Following on from our previous articles on jurisdiction, M1 – 'the legal heroes' are happy to report even more victories creating a victory snow-ball effect. After an initial court decision that a case did not fall under Spanish jurisdiction, M1 Legal appealed the decision which was reversed by the court of appeal. In all instances, the defence argued that the case should not be heard in Spain claiming that the contract fell under English Law. However, the appeal judge ruled that the matter should be heard in Spain which means that over 200 cases will be re-submitted to the Spanish courts of first instance.

The contractual names are Club la Costa (UK) PLC Sucursal en España and Continental Resort Services S.L. where M1 legal have secured even more victories in recent weeks. We told him about some exciting forthcoming projects and also got to speak with some VIP's visiting us from the publishing world in the UK.

Alongside recent victories on jurisdiction, the courts have ruled in their clients' favour against several timeshare resorts.

in the 576 cases courts

In 2018, M1 secured 46 victories totalling £1.1 million. In 2019 we have already secured 21 victories totalling £381,407 and we are only in March.

being 251 cases prepared

They are becoming the “heroes” against the timeshare resorts fighting for consumer rights.

Meet one of the M1 Legal team

Adriana Stoyanova

Adriana is qualified to practice law both in Bulgaria and in Spain. She has been the force behind the brand when M1 Legal applied to be regulated with the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) which is no easy task.

Anfi £16,422 Awarded BIC Leisure £15,620 Awarded Diamond Resorts £17,597 Awarded Explotación Hotelera £19,353 Awarded

Leisure Dimensions £16,283 Awarded Restotel & Medotel - £84,763 Awarded Silverpoint £34,857 Awarded

For any timeshare enquiries regarding this story call 0034 951 562 209 or email sharon@m1legal.com.

vi Po ta W p in tio e' f re or n ju a to st co ab ff tim e ov e Pa Av an e rq . C es ue a Ice d M rme H ha an l ira n e a 4B m S a nd i re n ,2 ar aen d o 96 S2 z f in fo 51 08 de fic r M m M Bu Tej e ija al ija il ad s C din a, s C ch os g , 52 os at ta 4t 0 h 8; ta – flo

ne rs

Some of this month’s latest victories:

She also recently collaborated with the reporter from The Times to assist him with his article which was published on the 21st February 2019. She has been Practising law since 2004 Specialising in International Law and is also experienced in claims against banks and financial institutions in the UK.

Maxima 1 Legal S.L. is regulated by the Claims Management Regulator in respect of regulated claims under registration number: CRM44126.

LETTERS

LE T T E R S

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Check out our issues online at www.theolivepress.es

Tacky and absurd Readers react to news of Fuengirola Town Hall painting its beaches fluorescent colours

In Gibraltar Issue 92

Look in the mirror

As spring blooms, don’t miss our most Property colourful King of cool Property supplement yet www.theolivepress.es

property Malaga’s bestmagazine

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Issue 27

March 2019

Know what this is? It’s just helped an architect win the world’s most prestigious prize

March 13th - March 26th

2019

Using her logic, does the Mayor, Ana Mula also support graffiti artists who use bright colours to deface properties and walls? Hopefully, as an employee of the people she will agree to pay for the rocks to be cleaned from her own wages.

FREE INSIDE STILL HOT SIMPLE, INTRICATE mixture, of the three AND STYLISH: Bofill’s works are all,

or a

The Brits have not stopped in Spanish property with investing a 12% rise in purchases last year

due to other nationalities flooding the market, it is expected to again this year. rise According to property expert Mark Stucklin, of Spanish Insight, the weakness of Sterling Property against the Euro was the leading cause of the drop in demand. “Once the Pound stabilised at a lower level British demand bilised and then began to grow also staagain,” he explained. Continues on Page

III

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BRING ON THE WOMEN! March 13th - March 26th 2019

There is a ‘gender imbalance’ when it comes to running Gibraltar, claim female politicians GIBRALTAR’S echelons of power have been compared to those in Iran due to its lack of female representation. It comes after the Rock ranked 154th out of 191 countries in a study on women in power by the International Parliamentary Union. “The study says we are only slightly better than countries like Qatar, Congo and Iran,” said Together Gibraltar leader Marlene Hassan Nahon. “We look back over the last 50 years and there is only a handful of women that have graced Parliament with their presence. “As a result there is a void of female role models as we haven’t been there to add our perspective.” Speaking on International Women’s Day, Nahon also re-

By John Culatto

vealed she was once advised to ‘find a man’ to lead her new party. “For them, the visual is that a man has to lead,” she added during a debate at City Hall. “It’s all about awareness and changing these visuals.” Rival GSLP MP Samantha Sacramento agreed, saying there was ‘obviously’ a ‘gender imbalance’ on the Rock. “Overnight, I became minister for equality and I remember quite a hostile reaction when we first started celebrating International Women’s Day,” she said. “I had to explain that the reason we are raising awareness is not to give a particular advantage to women.

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2/8/18 17:01 As spring blooms, PropertyKing of cool don’t miss Spain’s most colourful Property Magazine STILL HOT FREE INSIDE bestMalaga’s magazine property

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March 2019

Issue 27

Know what this is? It’s just helped an architect win the world’s most prestigious prize

March 13th - March 26th 2019

See Legacy on page VI

Spanish maestro celebrated for five decades in the business, see STARchitect page XII

SIMPLE, INTRICATE AND STYLISH: Bofill’s works are mixture, of the three

RITISH buyers in Spain have beaten pre-Brexit referendum records despite the doom and gloom, new figures have revealed. Shrugging off the UK’s imminent departure from the EU, the sale of homes to plucky Brits rose 12% in 2018 to 10,178 - beating the 2016 record of 10,156. While UK buyers declined significantly in the quarters after the referendum in June 2016, and by a massive 28% in the last quarter of 2016, they started recovering to increase by double-digits

all, or a

The Brits have not stopped investing in Spanish property with a 12% rise in purchases last year

last year. It means the UK’s share of the foreign market has been steadily increasing from a low of 14% in the first quarter of 2017 to 17% at the end of 2018. Although this is not yet back to the levels prior to the referendum

due to other nationalities flooding the market, it is expected to rise again this year. According to property expert Mark Stucklin, of Spanish Property Insight, the weakness of Sterling against the Euro was the leading cause of the drop in demand. “Once the Pound stabilised at a lower level British demand also stabilised and then began to grow again,” he explained. Continues on Page III

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Lying scum By Gillian Keller

party ACTIVISTS from far right politicala hoax Vox, have been caught fabricating girls. about 'radical feminists' beating young Mallorca It comes after the leader of the that branch told a 8M Women's Day eventwere the trio, including his own daughter, in attacked by a group of 'radical feminists' Son Servera. with He claimed the girls were lefts 'knocked out teeth, a split lip and possibly a at broken jaw', the event in the town. One of the at the teenage youths was apparently still hospital with the jaw injury. around The story duly made front pages the Mallorca, but despite public doubts, reanti-feminist party kept up the charade, on telling and posting details of the 'attack' social media. 'Witnesses' even came forward describing the 'brutal attack'. However, the Guardia Civil soon discovered reported, been had that no such incident a paand no medical centre had received tient matching the injuries. the Finally, on Saturday, they confirmedthey story to be false, with Vox admitting had been spoofed. hall to The news led to Son Servera town the party host a protest on Sunday against the and against spreading 'fake news' about

town. wom“We regret that a celebratory day foralleged en has been overshadowed by an aggression,” said a spokesman. tolerate He assured the town would not of Son ‘attitudes that harm the good name Servera’. a local While the party has since denouncedanother ‘activist’ for making the story up,town last protest was due to be held in the night as we went to press. Untitled-1.pdf

16/06/2017

FIERCE EXCHANGE

15:36

‘Get back in the kitchen!’ Page 6

Voted

back for MPs join battle to get millions firm expats who lost out to rogue FX

BEST

BLOCKED OFF EXCLUSIVE By Elisa Menendez

Elphicke, has now met with the EXCLUSIVE authorities to check on progress EXPATS in Mallorca have By Tim McNulty of the case. slammed the lack of action over He said, this week: “The FCA a foreign exchange firm collapse, their funds since then. as despite British authorities claim- One expat, based in Cas Catala, must treat this investigation ing an investigation is ‘a matter Pam Gardner has grown frus- a top priority. Innocent people have been left in terrible finanof priority.’ trated at attempts by the UK’s cial hardship. them of most clients, of Dozens Financial Conduct Authority to British expats, lost millions of (FCA) to ‘wriggle’ out of respon- “The authorities need to get the bottom of this urgently.” euros when the Palma-based sibility. company Premier FX suddenly “People in the UK just think it The move comes after the firm stopped trading in July last year. was a case of rich expats with - which operated from Palma, suddenly Victims have demanded answers too much money, they don’t re- Portugal and London but have been left completely in alise it was people’s life savings stopped trading on July 27. told the Olive Press the dark and unable to access that were lost, money Victims that they had lost up they planned to retire last year each in life sav€400,000 to Olive the told on,” she ings after the company was Press this week. administration by She added she was forced into authorities. ‘upset’ that local boss the UK group was formed Nick Jones has ap- An action has well over 200 parently washed his and now - many of them in hands of the case and members the Balearics - demanding im‘fled’ the island. answers. She has now launched mediate an initial invesa civil case against the One claimed by Surrey police had firm, lodged in Palma. tigation been scrapped due It comes despite Brit- apparently funding’. ish MPs now stepping to ‘insufficient had been reguin to demand the FCA The company the FCA for money probes the case ‘as a lated by services but its custransfer matter of priority.’ were encouraged to MP for Dover, Charlie tomers UNDER FIRE: Local boss Nick

Jones

AN expat business owner is demanding action after neighbours put up ‘illegal’ bollards blocking his shop. Martin White, 54, claims his business Hot Spring Mallorca has been forced to cease trade for almost three weeks, after the series of 15-inch posts were installed. As well as blocking delivery trucks, it is putting off clients, he insists. “I’m suffering a loss of €1,000 a day. Delivery vans can’t get through to drop off stock,” White, from Hull, told the Olive Press. He has now called in police and Alcudia town hall, via a lawyer, to demand answers. The problem began when White, who is co-owner of the business with David Camping, 56, arrived to find the series of bollards blocking his shop on August 27. After contracting a legal firm he was told by both police and town hall that the posts were ‘illegal’. The businessman is now set to take the community of neighbours to court for discrimination and loss of business for €30,000 in compensation. The posts have also been installed in front of the Muslimowned supermarket next to him, although ‘mysteriously’, not the garage the other side. “It’s totally illegal,” he said. “You can’t just put them on one side without the other.” To make matters worse, three days after the bollards went in, one of the neighbours threw a bucket of water over him from above. He has also denounced the incident to the police. “I’ve had the shop for five years and I’ve never had a problem. “The administrator of the building told us this was a personal vendetta from residents,” he added.

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EXCLUSIVE By Elisa Menendez

Assurance

Is Bilbao tastier than San Sebastian?

Page 12

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Victims have now formed an action group with nearly 200 members - many of them in the Balearics - demanding immediate answers. One British expat, based in Palma, told the Olive Press she has no idea what has happened to the €30,000 she was holding with Premier FX. “I had used them for many years and there were never any problems,” explained the 69-year-old, who asked to remain anonymous. “I had transferred the money and was waiting for the ex15:36 change rate to improve.

Page 20

GIVE IT BACK “The next thing I knew, the money was gone. I feel sick about it,” added the pensioner. “I just don’t understand why no other media organisations on the island are tackling this.” In particular, she wants to know of the whereabouts of Nick Jones, the island’s former director, who has not been seen for over a month. She is angry that he had sent out an assurance email of the company’s financial stability on June 20, just days after the death of Rexstrew. However, the Olive Press understands that Jones, who worked out of an office on Palma’s prestigious Calle La Rambla, has also lost ‘a substantial

MISSING: Nick Jones

amount of money’ from the collapse, according to a close friend. The Portals-based expat pal, who has also lost money, insisted Jones had been advised to ‘go into hiding’ after he was ‘lambasted’. “I know him closely and he said all employees were in total shock with the news. “He is not in hiding he has been advised to keep a low profile while the investigation is ongoing. And while a director, in reality, he had no access to the main accounts.” She added: “All this is very distressing for him and his family. He has been completely lambasted. I understand people are angry but there have been some really nasty comments. “It is quite clear that Peter’s children were taking over the business, not Nick.” Another victim told the Olive Press she has lost a staggering €400,000 due to the collapse. The UK-based businesswoman, who lived for decades in Portugal, has made three monthly transactions with Premier FX for 12 years. Despite being a friend of former

CMY

boss Rexstrew, who also lived in the Algarve, she was given no warning of the collapse. “I simply found out when I tried to make a transaction but no one would answer the phone. I then emailed and I received this automatic reply saying they had ceased trading and there’d be no further transactions. “I immediately smelt a rat,” she added. When she called the UK’s Action Fraud, an operator explained he knew nothing about it. “I’ve been stuck for two months without that money which I need for my business. “It’s not just affecting people buying holiday homes, it is also affecting business owners, who can’t pay staff or clients.” Most victims had been promised by Premier FX that their money was being held in ‘segregated, personal accounts’ with Barclays, but administrators now think this was not the case. It is also believed that many clients were still permitted to

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What’s up at the Valley of the Fallen?

Expats demand the return of millions after FX company collapses amid fraud probe

EXPATS in Mallorca may have lost millions over the suspicious collapse of a foreign exchange firm being probed over ‘criminal activity’. Dozens of victims have lost up to €400,000 each in life savings after Premier FX Limited was forced into administration by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It comes after the firm - which operated from Palma, Portugal and London - suddenly stopped trading on July 27, following the death of director, Peter Rexstrew. Since then hundreds of clients, many of them expats, have been left completely in the dark and unable to access their funds.

make financial transfers via Barclays even after the company had ceased trading. The FCA has since discovered that the company, set up in 2006, was operating without full authorisation. It was forced into administration after being unable to pay debts and was ‘cash flow insolvent’ following Rexstrew’s sudden death, leaving his two children as joint directors. Victims have so far received very little information from the company’s appointed administrators and Barclays and fear they will never get their money back.

Criminal

“It’s a real mindfield and like banging your head against a brick wall,” added another British retiree, who has lost money. Premier FX and Barclays failed to comment in time for press. An FCA spokesperson told the Olive Press: “We are very concerned that there was criminal activity taking place at Premier FX in relation to missing funds. “We are investigating the business and will take action against any individuals we find to have broken the law in order to return money to customers of the firm.”

Hot EXPOSED: In a previousHot water water issue Best English Pub in Palma Great food Live Music Every Night from 12am

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14 IN fire bosses have SEESOME MORE been arrested for allegedly THE RESTAURANT embezzling €7 bosses millionhave in SOME 14 fire public arrested funds. been for allegedly SECTION INSIDE The Policia Nacional found

Costa del Sol hotel has Costa del three Sol months tothree hotel has fight decision months to before it is fight decision demolished before it is A HOTEL is to be knocked demolished

deposit funds, to be used as a type of savings vehicle. It did not have a licence to offer this service, it has since Pipe ban Pipe ban emerged. The company appeared to have got into trouble after its owner Peter Rexstrew died suddenly in Mallorca. The Olive Press can reveal that he had recently started renting exclusive the in a new property Portals area, with a new girlfriend, when he passed away. The pair had been seen out enjoying expensive meals and ‘living the high life’. The FCA did not get back to the Olive Press before deadline. embezzling €7 million in that funds. the Consortium of public Bomberos tookfound out The Policia Cadiz Nacional mass early insurthat the retirement Consortium of ance policies. Bomberos Cadiz took out But when their employees mass early retirement insurretired early, chiefs siphoned ance policies. off the money from the payBut when their employees outs. early, chiefs siphoned retired Authorities also found disoff the money from the paycrepancies in the consorouts. tium’s training courses. Authorities also found disLarge sums in were to a crepancies thepaid consorcompany to provide training tium’s training courses. courses, but no evidence Large sums were paid tohas a been found thesetraining courses company tothat provide took place. courses, but no evidence has Meanwhile, irregularities been found that these courses were also found in grants and took place. subsidies, whichirregularities cops believe Meanwhile, were also usedfound to pay private in for grants and trips. subsidies, which cops believe The date back were irregularities used to pay for private to 2008 and cops believe at trips. least €7 million hasdate beenback stoThe irregularities len by those the top. to 2008 andatcops believe at least €7 million has been stolen by those at the top.

FRUIT growers in the Axarquia are facing a 60% reduction in water usein from La FRUIT growers the the AxarVinuela with reducno soquia are reservoir facing a 60% lution sight.use from the La tion inin water The Junta has with decided to Vinuela reservoir no solimit its as the reservoir is lution inuse sight. already at 22.7% The Junta has capacity decidedand to couldits drop if the limit use even as thelower reservoir is dry weather keeps up. already at 22.7% capacity and could drop even lower if the dry weather keeps up.

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down for not having enough class! A HOTEL is to be knocked Benalmadena’s Hotelenough Vista down for not having de Rey must be demolished class! within three months, Benalmadena’s Hotela court Vista hasRey ruled, de must be demolished Andalucia’s Superiora Court within three months, court of hasJustice ruled, ruled that the hotel falls shortSuperior of its four-star Andalucia’s Court requirement. of Justice ruled that the hotel falls short of its four-star requirement. Probing It began probing the three Probing star hotel and apartment block in 2011 after it was deIt began probing the three nounced overand planning rules star hotel apartment whichin set2011 aside theitplot a block after wasfor defour star hotel only. nounced over planning rules According to thethe PGOU which set aside plot town for a plan star an apartment four hotel only.block was not permitted it town also According to theand PGOU breached rules by being plan an apartment blockover was 700 permitted square meters not and itbigger also breached rules by being over 700 square meters bigger

N E WS N E WS

December 6th - December 19th 2017

‘He deserves it’ ‘He deserves it’ Not Not enough enough stars stars December 6th - December 19th 2017

From Page 1

DOOMED: Costa hotel DOOMED: Costa hotel

than permitted. Although the town hall and developer maintain this exthan permitted. cess was later corrected, the Although the town hall and judge ruledmaintain that the rectificadeveloper this extion would have taken place cess was later corrected, the after granting the lijudge the ruled that theof rectificacence, so does nottaken count. tion would have place The has 61 apartafter building the granting of the liments and 46 not parking spaccence, so does count. es. The building has 61 apartThe building spacwas mentsoriginal and 46 parking granted planning permises. sion then mayor Enrique The by original building was Bolin in 2001. granted planning permission by then mayor Enrique Bolin in 2001.

SMUGGLERS’ WALL SMUGGLERS’ WALL

POLICE officers have formed a human wall along a beach in La Linea to ensure that the construction of a have beachformed wall went ahead.wall POLICE officers a human The wall, between the church of Nuestra along a beach in La Linea to ensure that the Senora del Carmen andwall thewent perimeter construction of a beach ahead.wall of thewall, fishing port ofthe Lachurch Atunara, to The between of hopes Nuestra Senora del Carmen and the perimeter wall of the fishing port of La Atunara, hopes to

deter drug smugglers from using the beach as a drop off zone. A combined police presence Guardia Civil, deter drug smugglers from of using the beach local and off national as a drop zone. officers were present as fears grew that drug smugglers would try A combined police presence of Guardia Civil, and disrupt the work. local and national officers were present as fears grew that drug smugglers would try and disrupt the work.

He even got himself a financial advice slot on a well From Page 1 known radio station, through which he snared unsuspecting victims. He even got himself a financial advice slot on a well However, a comprehensive Press investigation exknown radio station, throughOlive which he snared unsuspectposed his scams that involved stamps, coins and gold. ing victims. We also revealed how he and his close Barry Nathan However, a comprehensive Olive Presspal investigation exwined his andscams dinedthat up to a dozen criminals, posed involved stamps, coinsanonymously, and gold. through food column. We also the revealed how he and his close pal Barry Nathan He eventually fled followinganonymously, our expose, wined and dined up the to a country dozen criminals, but we soon tracked him down to the UK, where he had through the food column. changed his name deed poll andfollowing was selling and He eventually fledbythe country ourcoins expose, antiques on eBay from a small cottage. but we soon tracked him downBerkshire to the UK, where he had He was quickly found guiltypoll under law ofcoins conning changed his name by deed andEnglish was selling and people and givenfrom a suspended prison cottage. antiques on eBay a small Berkshire sentence only due to health He was quickly found guilty reasons. under English law of conning “And because he apromised to prison never people and given suspended go back toonly his due online cons,”reasons. one of the sentence to health Britishbecause victim explained. “And he promised to never Butback this is not theone caseofwith go to apparently his online cons,” the two victims he is still using British victimclaiming explained. eBaythis to is sell ‘dodgy’ coins and stamps But apparently not the case with fromvictims his unpaid flat in ustwo claiming he Brighton, is still using ing the ‘gqtrading’ eBay tonames sell ‘dodgy’ coins and and ‘gqtradstamps ing2’. his unpaid flat in Brighton, usfrom “Wethe arenames pretty‘gqtrading’ sure he hasand broken his ing ‘gqtradbail conditions and will have to finally ing2’. go back prison,” one broken victim. his “We areto pretty suresaid he has “Theconditions nerve of this man unbelievable.” bail and willishave to finally Hisback landlord last night insisted he should have known go to prison,” said one victim. something up man fromisthe start. “The nerve was of this unbelievable.” “When we metlast to sign theinsisted contracts thoughthave he was a bit His landlord night heI should known slippery, I went to pay my coffee only for the barista to something was up fromfor the start. tell me he without paying his bill.” he was a bit “When we had met left to sign the contracts I thought He continued: paid for the first only couple months slippery, I went“He to pay for my coffee forofthe baristabut to thenme just He told us his account had been frozen tell hestopped. had left without paying his bill.” duecontinued: to a money“He laundering investigation, is probHe paid for the first couplewhich of months but ably true. “He thenHe told us us to his stopaccount contacting acthen just stopped. told had him beenand frozen cused of harrassment. due tous a money laundering investigation, which is prob“Nowtrue. he is claiming he us is to seriously ill and can’t to ably “He then told stop contacting him work and acmake payments. cused us of harrassment. “We’ll he seeishim in court.” “Now claiming he is seriously ill and can’t work to make payments. Opinion Page 6 “We’ll see him in court.”

Robin Cox, Granada

Opinion Page 6

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24/11/2017 11:18

Ed. Hi Robin, thank you for your letter. We agree that the scheme is -hare-brained’ and will continue taking REE to task on another of issues. The environment and the tourism of the area are two of our primary concerns.

CMY

week

Congratulations to you on highlighting the hare-brained scheme to erect a network of 352 giant pylons in the Alpujarras and Lecrin Valley in your last issue. The damage to an entire region heavily dependent on tourism will be incalculable. But it’s not just the knock-on costs for the local economy that should concern us, there are environmental costs too, including the destruction of many hectares of natural habitat to create access roads and the like, as well as the anticipated sharp increase in the electrocution of raptors for which this area is renowned. That is not to mention the personal trauma and distress that hundreds of locals are currently undergoing with the prospect of this beautiful little corner of Spain being irreversibly and horribly despoiled. There is also the question of whether this hugely destructive and costly is needed in the first place, REE claims it is necessary because of the alleged increase in demand for electricity but that doesn’t make much sense as there is already a significant over-capacity in supply.

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This is not completely different from the UK, where people move to the country and NEWS then4 comGirl power Save the plain about the smell, cows! the dawn chorus, c h u r c h bells, etc. (Hundreds of animals facing death after generational farm ‘cut off’ after ‘offending’ new residents, Issue 313) The cows were there first, so if the newcomers don’t like it they can p**s off. WOMEN across Spain have organised 500 protests across the country on International Women’s Day. Students in Madrid and Barcelona went on strike at midday A BRITISH expat is campaigto highlight the crucial role of ning to save a herd of cows after women in society. a local farmer’s electricity and Feminist group, Comisión 8M, water supplies were ‘cruelly’ cut said the aim of the marches off by the town hall. was ‘subverting the world or- Julie Crowson, 59, is supporder and the pervading hete- ting Jose Luis Sanchez Real, ro-patriarchal, racist and neo- 56, whose 485 dairy cows are liberal rhetoric’. facing ‘almost certain death’. Meanwhile, in the Andalucian It comes after the farm in Rota parliament the 12 deputies of which has been in Jose’s family the far-right Vox party are the for generations - had its water the reject only politicians to supply cut off without warning calls of the left-wing PSOE for following ‘a string of comppolitical groups to join the stri- laints’ from neighbours. kes. To make matters worse, electriIt comes as President of the re- city was severed a few days later gion, Juan Manuel Moreno, is leaving the family desperate for to group set to create a working a generator to milk their cows. tackle gender violence.

THE Roman ruins of Italica, near Sevilla, are expected to become a candidate for elevation to UNESCO world heritage status following a campaign by civil association CIVISUR.

Across 8 Its capital is Kiev (7) 9 Jewelled headdress (5) 10 Pawnbroker (5) 11 Ignorant (7) 12 Deep-pitched band instrument (4,4) 15 Fourth Gospel (4) 17 Above (4) 18 E.g. Germaine Greer (8) 21 Glass containers (7) 23 Cutting instrument (5) 25 Vision (5) 26 Advantage (7) Down 1 Urban commuter belt (6) 2 Voracious aquatic reptile (Abbr.) (4) 3 Fruit drink (7) 4 List from which to choose (4) 5 Water vapour (5) 6 Tubular pasta (8) 7 Collapse (4,2) 13 Dearth (8) 14 Exploit (3) 16 Going down (7) 17 Surprise attack (6) 19 Agreement (6) 20 Roofing stone (5) 22 Weeps (4) 24 Gen (4)

THE EU has suspended the use of the new Boeing 737-MAX 8 planes, after nine Britons and two Spaniards were killed when an Ethiopian Airlines flight crashed after taking off from Addis Ababa.

Brexpact

Chrissie Carson, Malaga

ESTEPONA Council has spent €100 million on public works since 2011, it has been claimed. Mayor Jose Maria Garcia

MERCADONA has unveiled in Valencia its first macro warehouse exclusively dedicated to online orders, with plans to open a dozen more in a bid to challenge internet retailers Carrefour and Amazon.

NEW: Hospital

Urbano has spent the ney on several large projects, including the new athletics stadium, which cost €6 million. A further €10.5m has been spent on the gardens and plants, leading to the ‘greatest transformation the city has ever experienced’. This year’s budget will see more money going to the construction of Estepona Hospital, to the tune of €15 million.

By Joshua Parfitt

“Cutting off the water supply is just cruelty to animals,” Crowson told the Olive Press. “I don’t care if the mayor comes after me, I don’t want the cows and a family to be destroyed.” It’s not Crowson’s first battle with mayor Javier Arana after she thwarted his efforts to bring back bullfighting to the town two years ago. The expat, who has lived in the town for 30 years, famously kissed a bull as part of her campaign to raise awareness.

FARMER: Jose Real

with endangered cow CAMPAIGNER: Julie Crowson my farm,” he told the Olive She has now taken up the cause Press this week. of farmer Jose, who has worked “I don't have that kind of moon the farm since he was 12. ney.” According to the town hall, Mayor Arana, from the PSOE, complaints of smell by nearby defended the decision, teurbanisations, which have lling Rota al Dia he had given sprung up over the last decade, Sanchez a ‘month’s warning’ led to a court order forcing his about imminent cuts to prorelocation. visions. However, farmer Real insisted However the warning letter the council was merely plan- shown to this paper, dated ning to ‘slaughter’ his cows, November 29, did not specify give him money for the meat any dates. and charge him €31,000 for the “With elections coming up on service. May 27 I imagine the mayor “They are threatening me, yet is hoping to fulfil a campaign my cows have the best genetic pledge,” Crowson, who will indices in all of Andalucia. And be creating an online petition, while I know I must leave, it will added. cost me €1.5 million to rebuild

Maurice Plant, Malaga

Bad for kids It looks terrible. I saw them the other day and children were playing on them. It is way too dangerous, children never climbed on them until they were painted. Sara Utting, Malaga

Bigger fish to fry Is the EU funding this wasteful display? Or is it just a wasteful government who perhaps should be concentrating on improving youth unemployment in Spain? Nick Maund, London

Follow through This is fine, as long as they regulate it better in Marbella than they did last year with the supposed introduction of fines for people walking around the town centre in swimming attire (British tourists face €3,000 fines for drinking in streets of Marbella and Mallorca this summer while happy hours banned, Issue 313). I never saw anyone being fined. Audrey Johnston, Marbella

Soiling nature This is dreadful! What a waste of money. It is spoiling an incredible environment. Teresa Tracy Ramsey, Roquetas de Mar

Light relief Thank God for that. I thought a group of vandals had done it. Teresa Bryan, Marbella

Has anything piqued your interest in this week’s Olive Press? Have your say on the matter by emailing letters@ theolivepress.es or alternatively message us on Facebook at www.facebook. com/OlivePress Newspaper or Twitter @ olivepress

€100m on public projects mo-

Mercadona

If the Mayor thinks improvements need to be made to improve the look of Fuengirola, she should look to Marbella for advice. Making people cover up when off the beach would be a good start - and it costs nothing.

Hundreds of animals facing death after generational farm ‘cut off’ after ‘offending’ new residents

Roman relics

A SPECIAL committee has been formed, comprising the 11 departments of the Junta de Andalucia, to introduce measures that will reduce the impact of Brexit on Andalucia’s 70,000 British residents, citing that the UK is the region’s top customer for tourism.

Learn your lesson

March 13th - March 26th 2019

www.theolivepress.es

NEWS IN BRIEF

Grounded

Humiliating

for Spanish residents

• •

Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay had told MPs the deal would deliver the protections they had asked for, including on the status of Gibraltar. In his closing remarks, Barclay said: “The PM has been BEHIND: Study said Gibraltar clear that the government only ranked alongside Iran stands behind sovereignty “Instead, we want to show that it is because of these bar- Mayor Kaiane Aldorino Lo- In one of her last public for Gibraltar, and that will riers and biased that women pez, a former Miss World speeches before she is due to never change.” are at a disadvantage al- winner, believed however, step down from her position, If MPs reject the no-deal opthat gender roles had begun tion, there will be a further ready.” she said: to change. “Children should understand vote on a potential extension that women are not made of Article 50 on Thursday. only to handle household A total of 75 Conservative chores or take responsibility MPs rebelled against the deal whereas three Labour of home and family. “Instead, both men and wom- MPs rebelled against their en are responsible of home leader by voting in favour. and family as well as the In a statement the EU’s Chief Negotiator, Michel UK BASED working world. Lettings | Sales “Women should identify their Barnier said: “The impasse strengths and abilities and can only be solved in the UK. Investments | Relocations move toward a world of em- Our “no-deal” preparations are now more important powerment.” Commercial and Residential than ever before.”

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Imagine giving your passport up and taking another one on (British expat trades in his British passport for Romanian one to keep freedom of movement, Issue 313). That is a proud Brit right there.

Milking it

See Legacy on page VI

Spanish maestro celebrated for five decades in the business, see STARchitect page XII

Pride of Britain

Mind-boggling Why was a two-year-old toddler allowed to wander off on his own? (Malaga judge rejects report from uncle’s lawyers claiming little Julen who died in well was killed by rescue worker’s pickaxe, Issue 313) It beats me, as you would make sure they were right next to you. Marion Germaine, Athens

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The Olive Press: Costa del Sol / Gib / Mallorca editions – 342mm x 256mm

27 March

Mar 27th - April 9th 2019

Property of the Week

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Bonuses for every employee after company which owns Zara rakes in €26 billion

SPAIN’S richest man has raked in €1.6 billion from his clothing empire this year and has made sure every employee is rewarded with a cash bonus. Amancio Ortega, (pictured left) owner of the Inditex group, which

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includes Zara, saw his earnings increase by almost €300 million year-on-year when the fiscal year ended in January. And in keeping with tradition, every single employee who has worked at the company for more than two years got a share of 10% of the profit increase. It means 92,000 workers shared a huge €32 million - or in

Airport chaos AIRPORTS in Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza could collapse after Brexit, officials have claimed. Concerned workers say the baggage system for non-EU residents won’t be able to cope with the huge number of Brits arriving during the summer season. The fears come as British tourists will soon have to collect their suitcases in a different area. According to the Customs and Excise office of the Balearics, Mallorca’s main airport of Son Sant Joan in Palma only has 18 conveyor

belts for luggage which would be saturated given the arrival of flights from the UK on an hourly basis during peak hours. Miguel Morey, head of the Regional Customs and Excise Unit of the Balearic Islands, said: “There are no infrastructures to deal with this situation. “The airport has 18 belts for luggage, and the British flights are crowded into hourly peaks, so it will be very difficult to deal with these situations. “In Ibiza and Menorca, it will be even worse.”

other words they each received a bonus of just under €350. Ortega’s wealth of around €65 billion now equals 5% of Spain’s GDP and makes him among the top five richest men in the world. It comes after Inditex increased its net profit by 2.2% to €3.4 billion in 2018. Sales across the whole group’s brands, which also include Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Pull&Bear, Oysho and Uterque, increased by 3.2% to a whopping €26.1 billion.

Profit

The main money makers continue to be Zara and Zara Home, which last year brought in €18 billion, a 3.2% increase on the year before. Bershka invoiced €2.2 billion, Pull&Bear and Massimo Dutti both brought in €1.8 billion while Stradivarius, Oysho and Uterque cashed in €1.5 billion, €585 million and €101 million respectively. Inditex, which already has 7,490 stores around the world, will add 300 new locations this year while profits are forecast to increase by up to 6%.

Future’s bright SPAIN has begun construction of Europe’s largest solar farm. Iberdola’s 500MW Nuñez de Balboa plant in Extremadura will cover 1,100 football fields and will comprise of 1.5 million panels. Generating enough power for 250,000 people by 2020, it is part of a planned €8 billion investment into clean energy by Iberdola between now and 2022.

Tough job market

SPAIN has the second-lowest amount of job vacancies in the EU, new figures have revealed. Second only to Greece, the number of jobs left unfulfilled in the last quarter of 2018 stood at 126,315. It is far below the likes of the UK, where 856,000 jobs were up for grabs, or Germany (1.44 million). The figures are not necessarily a bad omen, analysts have said, given that Spain’s unemployment rate stands at 14.5%, meaning there are around 3.3 million Spaniards looking for work at any given time.

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In the wake of the Cuatrecasas revelations Lawbird’s Antonio Flores explains the different types of company expenses

ESS than a week has passed since we learnt that Emilio Cuatrecasas, owner of the largest fiscal advisory firm in Spain, just hired former Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santa Maria. In 2015, Cuatrecasas pleaded guilty to eight counts of tax fraud in exchange for a rather lenient two-year suspended imprisonment suspended - conviction agreed with both the Prosecutor and the State Lawyer, the latter working on direct instructions of Mrs Saenz de Santa Maria, when the PP party was in power. What’s interesting in this case - besides the fairly obvious connection between Cuatrecasas’ favourable court ruling and the hiring of the instigator of such advantageous outcome - is the nature of the tax fraud: deducting personal outlays as company expenses. In this case, it was done in a grand scale where, for example, servants hired for his homes or his yacht, electrical appliances, decoration and generally, maintenance of his personal assets, were all introduced in the company balance sheet as deductible expenses. In the end, Cuatrecasas had to pay over €3 million plus €1 million in interest to avoid doing jail time. Spain is no different from any other country when it comes to tax deductible expenses. But what are they? Broadly speaking, they are those deemed helpful and appropriate for a business, as well as necessary and reasonable. More specifically, this is what the law says:

Deductible expenses Employees’ salaries and social security, rentals (office or part of a home used to work from) and associated expenses, equipment and supplies, repair and maintenance, stationery, external advisors, VAT (where it is not claimed) and uniforms not susceptible of private use, to name a few. Vehicles not exclusively used for business purposes will be deductible on prorate, with a maximum of 50% (save for cargo, transport and similarly used vehicles which will be 100%). Travel expenses, meals (maximum of 1% of turnover) or Christmas presents can be deducted if they are associated with business and this can be proven when required.

Non-deductible expenses Directors’ salaries, dividends, fines, services provided by people based in a tax haven, guard dogs, clothes (including lawyers’ suits), perfumes, beauty treatments, sunglasses or mobile phones (where it is not possible to show that they are exclusively used for a business purpose), weddings, weekly ‘Mercadona’ personal shopping and many other non-expenses habitually picked up by tax inspectors. Finally, deductible expenses must be provable by means of regular or simplified invoices, as mere receipts will not be valid.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.com Olive Press - St Georges European Ad 170 x 124 mm.indd 1

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Vol: 14

Issue 314

Mijas

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March 2019

Pueblo Perfect Mijas is a suprisingly authentic village with a buzzing coastline, discovers Laurence Dollimore

F you’re looking for a typical Andalucian town to charm your socks off then look no further than white-washed Mijas. The classic hilltop town, just a stone’s throw from the Costa del Sol, is quintessentially Spanish and packed full of surprises. Discovered by the globe’s more bohemian artists and writers in the 1950s and 60s, it was immortalised in Ronald Fraser’s 1973 book, The Pueblo, and continues to cast a spell on visitors today. A recent €4.7 million renovation which saw the main square transformed beyond recognition has helped (and for that you can thank the EU, which coughed up 70% of the funding). If you are visiting on a clear day, don’t forget to enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the coast from the cliff-edge view point on the outskirts of the pueblo - although you might have to wait for snappy happy Instagram ‘influencers’ to end their posing session before you can Continues overleaf

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ll about

From Page 17

Mijas

take some pics of your own. Elsewhere, come rain or shine, the Ermita de la Virgen de la Pena is an endearingly unpretentious little chapel. Forget the checked tiles of Notre Dame or the Sagrada Familia’s spiky, bejewelled interior. The hermitage was hollowed out by a single Carmelite monk in the 17th century. Outside, a stone gargoyle spouts water into a grand font. Inside, the candle light, bumpy floor, six ornate gold benches, fresh flowers and a small exhibition are a real treat. Leaving the chapel, I see a pair of pale-skinned Japanese tourists huddled on a bench hollowed out of the rock, using an umbrella to protect themselves from freak 30C It maybe busy March heat. today but Mijas is It’s no wonder al fresco dining popular all year is the norm here, with round, just like usually - not a diamonds table free near the Mirador del Compas, where you can dine to the musical swoosh of water provided by the charming fountain, not Handel! “It may be busy today but Mijas is popular all year round, like diamonds,” confides Francisco, a nut seller who has lived in the town all his life. Rightly, he capitalises on the buzz to flog his delicious candied almonds which give me renewed strength to hit the ground running. Mijas is designed for its multicultural tourist scene – with around 20,000 foreign residents and many, many more visitors. Signs appear in English and there is even an impressive machine vending t-shirts, maps and guides after trading hours.

ON THE UP AND UP HISTORIC SCENES: From the charming churches to the local horseman come feria time

Welcome to the future, I chuckle. And yet the human reception is second to none. Carmen in the Tourist Office, who hai-

ls from Valencia, gives me the inside track on just about everything in immaculate English. In fact she offers maps and info in an incredi-

ble 16 languages! Let’s not forget the countryside. There are beautiful hiking trails waiting to be explored.

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Mijas by numbers

27.5%

- Of Brits living in Malaga, reside in Mijas.

- Picasso’s ceramic works in the Contemporary Arts Centre Mijas (CAC Mijas), the second most important collection of this kind in the world.

50%

- ratio of male to female residents.

1,476

feet above ground - Mijas pueblo’s location ensures hot summers and mild winters.

VISTA: Down to coast, while (below) historic bullring

Sign up for ‘senderismo’ at the tourist office for any one (or all) of three weekly routes. Multilingual guides lead groups of up to 30 around paths of varying difficulty – an energetic and sociable affair. “The biggest reason Mijas draws people in is because we are close to the biggest Costa towns yet a typical Andalucian pueblo blanco which people love, complete with donkeys and mountains,” explains Carmen. “While the centre of town is beautifully preserved, we are moving forward and modernising on the outskirts within easy reach of the coast.” Get a free town walking map that emcompasses the key sites in a leisurely two hour stroll – providing you don’t make too many watering-hole stops. Several museums and plazas are worth a lookin, in particular, the oval-shaped bullring built in 1900 and the main town museum, adorned with speciality esparto products and fabulous photos. On top of this is the intriguing miniatures museum and the handsome town hall. Rest your weary legs in the tranquil Plaza de los Siete Canos and poke a nose inside the eighteenth-century Ermita de Nuestra Senora de los Remedios before circuiting back to central Plaza de la Libertad via Calle Larga del Palmar and Calle San Sebastian. The latter is ‘officially’ the pueblo’s prettiest

- hours of sunshine per year (243 days of solid sunshine)

11,000

Brits are registered as living in Mijas.

80,630 tion of Mijas.

- popula-

150,000

Japanese tourists visit Mijas each year.

street. that I’m reluctant to get back in the driving seat There are tapas haunts and restaurants to suit and head for the coast to the municipality’s every taste and budget in Mijas, while the ‘other half’ - Mijas Costa. open air auditorium becomes a great concert But the welcome in La Cala is equally warm – venue, often hosting tribute acts in restaurateurs, professionals and locals are all the summer. itching to tell me about their slice of paradise by Every local I meet seems to have the beach. lived here their whole life: sun-shri- Be it a Sauvignon Blanc in Olivia’s - run by TOWIE velled Antonio, who cannot remem- star Elliott Wright - or a pint of Guinness at Biddy ber his own age, clutches my arm Mulligan’s - run by Davey from Ireland - there is enthusiastically to lead me to the somewhere for everyone to sit back and unwind. art museum while telling me about But as Francisco the nut seller put it, multi-facehow the town has changed. ted Mijas is like diamonds - in demand year-round, We pass boutiques, delis and a ba- and everyone wants a piece of it. Bling it on! king dynasty that has been going since 1904, with grandson Francisco now in charge. It’s easy to fall in love with this enchanting pueblo. At CLINICA VETERINARIA a zapateria, fresh-faced shoe-seller Celia recalls how VETERINARY CLINIC her Liverpool mother met Nuno Moreira Rodrigues an Andalusian in Ibiza in the Veterinario 60s, married him, moved to Mijas and never left. Shoe Jardines de la Butiplaya Local 5 fetishist Nikki, who has pairs La Cala de Mijas, N340 Km202 of alpargatas (espadrilles) in 951 215 494 _ 678 368 441 more than 30 colours – the Butibamba.vet@gmail.com sign of a true española – was similarly smitten. “I went to Liverpool to study VET to HOME C/Fuengirola 6, 29649 languages as my mum did,” says the 37-year-old who La Cala Mijas Costa is a perfect example of the cosmopolitan population in Mijas. “But I came back here tel: 951 401 695 to raise my daughter; it is the mob: 639 727 188 most wonderful place.” Home Veterinary Visits/No call out charge A cool glass of tinto de verano www.joebayley.com Phone: +34 687 079290 later and I feel so welcomed joe@joebayley.com by Mijas Pueblo’s residents vettohome@gmail.com www.vettohome.com

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If you thought you knew all there was to know about Mijas, these 15 fascinating facts could make you think twice By Pablo Balbontin

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Making an entrance: Visitors are often curious to know why there are two sculptures of the shrunken head, the seven world Roman God Hercules flanking wonders sculpted from a tooentrance to Mijas Ethnologi- thpick and Abraham Lincoln’s 20th Anniversary! – 20the serving youwere from portrait our Mijas calyears Museum of Mijas. They paintedShop on a pinhead. put there to symbolise the burden of responsibility of the old Melting pot: It’s well known Mijas political leaders. Clearly that thousands of foreigners rerestaurant they had a Herculean (just task.below theside in MijasValparaiso) but did you know there are 113 different nationaLarge shop and just off lities the Carretera Small world: The office Professor registeredde in Mijas the municipaEasy parking of chemicals Max Museum of Miniatures is afor collection lity, including some from exotic dinky-sized delight. Inside what far-flung countries like Bahrain, may be Spain’s quirkiest attracSri Lanka and the Extensive pool toys and games Mauritius, and equipment mebody to visit you. stock of pool accessories, tionatyou’ll find curiosities a a small Seychelles. Parking is available in front of water FREE test of pool the shop – just pop like in with sample the shop which makes collecProfessional maintenance service – tailored to suit your needsBuried | Pool Construction treasure: Traces of ting your chemicals very easy. Specialists in leak detection, repairs and renovations Punic-Phoenician temples have The shop and office are open been in only eight locaNew pool buildsfrom with8am 10 year andfound automatic covers Monday to Friday to guarantees | Installation of pool heaters tions throughout the Iberian Pe3.30 pm ninsula and Mijas is one. During excavations in 2013 two bronze Tel : 952 591 053 or pieces representing the Eyes of 667788291 or visit www. Astarte the goddess were found splashpoolsmijas.com for within the old city walls, suggesdirections. ting that the site was once a HERCULIAN TASK: At museum sanctuary to a healing cult.

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SANCTUARY: Virgin de la Peña Indian connection: In Moorish times a ‘green revolution’ saw farming become the economic engine of the area and the most successful produce by far was figs. The sticky fruit were in such demand that they were even shipped to India. Marble-ous Mijas: Who would guess there are pieces of Mijas all over Spain. Marble was its main export during the XVII and XVIII centuries when it was used to embellish many important places of worship, including the cathedrals of Malaga and Sevilla, San Pedro Church in Granada and Santa Tecla in Burgos. War heroes: In 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars not even the distinguished British General Blayney and his 2,000 soldiers were able to conquer Mijas. Un-

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21 March 27th - April 9th 2019 se to where the Mediterranean meets the Gibraltar Strait, a rich ocean habitat. Size matters: Although the pueblo is petite, the tourist slogan ‘Mijas Inmensa’ is no lie. With an 80,000 population and an area of 148km2 it’s the third biggest municipality in the province of Malaga, after Malaga City and Marbella.

LOCAL STARS: Brigitte Bardot with Mijas donkey and piglet der ferocious attack by sea and land, the defenders routed British and Spanish forces, captured Blayney and sent the troops scuttling north. It’s known as the Battle of Fuengirola but it was really Mijas as you’ll see below. Siamese twin: Once upon a time Fuengirola didn’t exist - it was all part of Mijas, including the castle on the coast. In 1841 the two towns were separated although one still merges into the other so that the difference is almost imperceptible, like iden-

BATTLE: In Mijas

tical twins. Shape-shifting: Most bullrings are round but Mijas has one of the few oval plazas de toros in Spain. Built in 1900 by popular demand, it’s not easy to pick out, so well is it camouflaged among the white village houses. Star turn: During the 1960s Mijas was a much sought-after backdrop for movie makers for its the typical Andalusian charm. Brigitte Bardot, Raquel Welch and the Spanish actress and singer Marisol respectively strolled its romantic streets in Les Bijoutiers du clair de lune (1958) Fathom (1967)” and Solos los dos (1968). Eco beach: Mijas Costa was declared a Community Interest Area (CIA) in 2006 for its valuable marine ecosystem. Scientists have found 170 different species of molluscs along its shoreline, clo-

Miraculous Mijas: One of the treasures of Mijas is the Virgen de la Peña sanctuary where, according to legend, the Madonna appeared to two shepherds. As a tribute, a hermitage was hollowed out in stone which has become a point of pilgrimage. The Mijas mole: During Franco’s dictatorship many opposition politicians went into hiding but no one had it worse than the last Republican Mayor of Mijas who was holed up behind a false wall under the stairs of his house for 30 years. The pueblo erected a monument to Manuel Cortes,(left) who lived in the dark from 1939 to 1960, not even emerging for his daughter’s wedding which he watched through a hole in the wall. Thai transport: Although burro taxis are iconic in Mijas, a form of transport more familiar to the streets of Bangkok is giving the donkeys a well-earned break: tuk tuks. This electric eco-transport whizzes you up and down the steep jigsaw puzzle streets on a 35-minute tour.

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4 Bed Detached Villa for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol

3 Bed Terraced Townhouse for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol

4 Bed Penthouse Apartment for sale in Mijas, Costa del Sol

995.00€ – TE7080392

295.000€ – TE6558733

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Bed: 4 Bath: 5 Build: 376m2 Terrace: 150m2

Bed: 3 Bath:2 Build: 90m2 Terrace: 20m2

Bed: 4 Bath:3 Build: 207m2 Terrace: 25m2

A stunning villa is located in Urbanization Valtocado set on a double plot. This large, private, and spacious villa is spread over 400 m2. This home consists of 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms in the main house, a beautiful and open living room space, dining room and kitchen all with amazing sea views!

Fabulous townhouse for sale in Mijas la Nueva. Amazing panoramic and unobstructed sea and mountain views. Very residential area to enjoy all year round in one of the most beautiful urbanizations with real Spanish character. Very private, a unique opportunity in the market today.

Unique opportunity, 4 bedroom penthouse on one level with 25m2 terrace with panoramic sea views located in the heart of Mijas Pueblo and enjoying a communal pool. A unique position and location, this property offers 4 bedrooms, two en-suite, large living room and a very spacious traditional kitchen.

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Mijas

Luck of the Irish

RISH expats in Mijas can rejoice as one of the most popular supermarkets has begun stocking their home country’s biggest brands. Barry’s Tea, Miwadi cordials, Chefs sauces and Cidona are just some of the big names for sale after the Miraflores supermarket managed to land a game-changing deal with the companies. The products also include Club Orange, Club Rock Shandy and Odlums. “We’re very pleased to finally be able to offer the best brands from Ireland and at great prices,” the supermarket said. “We’ve been here for 14 years and just keep growing so thank you to all our loyal customers who keep returning to Miraflores. “Keep an eye out for special offers on our great selection of wines at truly unbeatable prices.” The supermarket, in Riviera del Sol at Centro Comercial Las Terrazas, stocks Torres, Faustino and more and is cheaper than ALL rival stores.

Culture hub I N one way it’s your typical whitewashed Andalucian village branded with the characteristics of Spanish culture known throughout the world - flamenco, religious festivals, artwork from iconic Spanish artists and affable locals. However Mijas likes to go its own way, too. One of the most striking presences in the pueblo is its defiantly rectangular bull ring, a circle squared to save space in this compact town.

Mijas is a living museum in microcosm, showcasing all the great Spanish traditions with a quirky spin that’s quintessentially its own

Geometry

Striking for its elevation as well as its non-conformist geometry, it can be seen from points throughout Mijas, granting stunning views of pastures sweeping down to Costa Fuengirola. Needless to say, bull fights rarely speckle the events calendar here. Colourful festivities, concerts and theatre productions fill the rest of it. Semana Santa is a sight to behold, with elaborate floats bedecked with religious figures illuminating the labyrinthine streets. And you’ll find no shortage of concerts taking place during the summer months. The open-air theatre Auditorio Municipal hosts dance festivals and tribute performances, along with the Spanish Theatre Festival in August where talented actors weave intricate stories under the stars.

its painstakingly microscopic artworks range from the astounding to the bizarre: faces carved into chickpeas, the last supper painted onto a grain of rice, fleas dissected and dressed, to name a few. For artwork you don’t have to squint to see, Cac Mijas Art Gallery has an important Picasso collection and two rooms of temporary exhibitions.

CULTURE: Picasso museum and bullring

Art on a smaller scale appears at the Miniatures Museum of Max Carromato. Founded 45 years ago by a hypnotist,

07:45-22:30

ARDLY a month goes by without some kind of party animating the flower-pot strewn streets of Mijas Pueblo. And the residents have every reason to celebrate life in this quintessential Andalusian white village. Ingrained with southern Spanish traditions from a young age, the people of the pueblo celebrate with gusto, whether during the riot of Carnaval, the passion of Holy Week or their bizarre Feast of St. Anthony.

Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos - January 5 Mijas is a wonderful place to watch the Three Kings parade at high altitude. A tradition throughout Spain, sweets are thrown to children in the streets as the kings pass through on colourful floats. The procession is an exciting build-up to January 6th, traditionally the day when Spanish children receive their main Christmas presents.

Feast of St. Anthony January 17 The sisterhood of spinsters traditionally looked forward to this quirky fiesta, when single women are invited to hurl stones at the statue of St. Anthony to try and change their marital status. But they need a good aim as only those who manage to hit poor St. Anthony’s private nether regions will find love that year, according to legend. Those who miss can cheer themselves up at the feast (traditionally, stew, sugar cane and palm fruit) and bag themselves a dancing partner at the after-party.

Carnival - February

Celebrating excess before the frugal rigours of Lent, the Spanish version of mardi gras gives residents and visitors the chance to don fancy dress and get involved in an iconic celebration. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes and

there are other opportunities to join in the fun at La Cala and Las Lagunas, which hold their festivities over different weekends.

Easter - March/April Easter is one of the busiest times in Mijas,with a multitude of events in all zones. The hilltop village is undergoing extensive roadworks to ease the passage of the mobbed processions and extravagant golden thrones through its character streets.

International People’s Feria - May Mijas celebrates world cultures on this day every year by inviting local folk from more than 20 countries to set out their stalls with traditional food, drink, handicrafts and clothing. Many countries also stage music and dance performances, with everything from Brazilian beats to Irish dancing.

La Noche de San Juan - June 23 La Noche de San Juan sees coastal towns all over Spain lit up with beach bonfires to celebrate the longest night of the year. But landlocked Mijas Pueblo also gets in on the act, with a firework display and the burning of effigies held in Sebastian Street after sundown.

Flamenco dance festival - July This typically Andalusian art form is celebrated by Mijeños in July with a programme of flamenco guitar, singing and dancing by top local and national performers.

Party pueblo

March 27th - April 9th 2019

A calendar of colourful fiestas ramps up the movida in Mijas village year-round

Mijas Feria September Held around the first week of September, this is one of the highlights of Mijas’ packed cultural calendar. Held in honour of the town’s

patron saint with most of the action taking place in her eponymous square, Virgen de la Pena Plaza - the ladies get glammed up in flamenco dresses, Andalusian thoroughbred horses strut their carefullychoreographed stuff and the sherry flows into la madrugada.

Treasure hunting

IJAS Pueblo is a genuine arts and crafts hub. That could be because its narrow streets aren’t wide enough for huge delivery trucks but the town also attracts many creatives. Ceramics, leather goods, handmade jewellery, eco-cosmetics … there’s so much on offer for those who like to buy local and know exactly where their souvenirs are made. That’s not to say every item carries a Made in Mijas label but many of the products sold in its boutiques originated nearby. Saunter through the winding streets where the scent of

leather clings to the air before stepping into one of the many air-conditioned jewelry boutiques to browse dainty bracelets and necklaces inset with crystals excavated from nearby mountains. Check out artisan food stores touting Mijas honey and saffron biscuits to gain an insight into some of the province’s gastronomic delights. Also look out for the eco-cosmetics of local business dynamo Tho-

mas Weller, under the brand WE, sold in various shops. No trip to Mijas would be complete, however, without appreciating some of the town’s impressive ceramics. Many pieces are on display outside the shops, luring in visitors with their vivid colours and Gaudi-esque mosaic work which seem to take their inspiration from the pueblo’s beautiful natural surroundings.

Office: 951 407 604 Mobile: 664 229 455 Email: info@lacalasalesandrentals.com www.lacalasalesandrentals.com Located in the heart of La Cala for over 10 years, La Cala Sales and Rentals are the property specialists for the La Cala de Mijas and Mijas Costa area. Going that extra mile for our clients whether they are buying, selling or renting. We work hard to find your dream property so you don’t have too. Drop in and see us in our office on the beachfront next to the tower. La Cala Sales and Rentals

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La Cala de Mijas

El Chaparral

Miraflores

La Cala de Mijas

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 4

Build: 85m2 Terrace: 15m2

Very rare opportunity to purchase a luxurious 1st floor apartment located on this beachfront development in the centre of La Cala de Mijas. Set within a small complex of only 24 apartments with direct private access to the beach and popular promenade. A real gem of a property in a stunning location which is sure to attract plenty of interest. We suggest early viewings to avoid disappointment.

Build: 200m2 Plot: 1.054m2

For those of you looking for a villa with stunning sea-views then look no further. This charming property located in the ever popular El Chaparral area has wonderful views from its elevated position. Private pool and garden both low maintenance. Spacious and with lots of potential.

Studio apartment Bathrooms: 3

Build: 54m2 Terrace: 15m2

This top floor apartment has the perfect south west orientation and boast panoramic sea views. The property itself is generous in size and could be converted to a one bedroom apartment if required. The location is also ideal with the beach and facilities all within easy walking distance. The community is known for its wonderful gardens and pool area with the added benefit of an onsite restaurant.

Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Build: 85m2 Terrace: 35m2

South facing garden apartment located within the popular area of La Noria golf. Easy walking distance to La Cala removing the need for a car. Finished to a very high standard and comes complete with storeroom and underground garage space. The community grounds are superb and large pool with ample terrace.

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Mijas

The aroma of

Expat dynamos Thomas Weller and Hugo German are set to diversify their already successful empire in Mijas Pueblo

T is hard to step foot in Mijas Pueblo these days without landing in one of Thomas Weller and Hugo German’s excellent restaurants or shops. Now you are just as likely to stay the night in one of their apartments. The pair of successful expats are launching a new side to their business branching out into accommodation. This month the first of five one and two bedroom apartments will come onstream in the historic heart of Mijas’ most evocative area. Each beautifully-appointed with high quality Egyptian cotton sheets and stylish furniture, they are expected to fill up quickly throughout the year. It is a natural addition to their empire, that already includes three shops and popular restaurants Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden, as well as Meguiñez and Latitud 36. “It is the most natural expansion,” explains Thomas. “I have had literally hundreds of people asking me where to stay in the centre of the village over

VARIETY: From the smart interior of Tapintxos to the stunning outdoor escape of the Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden the years and there has simply been rants at night,” he adds. tapas bar and teahouse called Aroma. so much pent up demand for it. It is truly around the world in a dozen The following year he had hooked up “It is the one sector that is completely flavours for the pair these days, with with Argentinian Hugo, 57, and the booming in Mijas these days.” dishes ranging from Argentinian pair quickly hit it off, with Hugo helTo manage the demand and expec- steaks to osso bucco and sushi to sea ping Thomas build and kit out a series ted new business he is converting a bass. of shops in the village. shop into a rental hub, which will also It all started in 1998 when Canadian An engineer by trade, father-of-three double as an estate agent and travel entrepreneur Thomas, 47, opened his Hugo moved from Buenos Aires during agent. first restaurant in Mijas; a sushi bar, the deep 1990s recession, looking to “It’s double bubble all round as more which was the first of its kind on the make a new life in Spain. people staying in the village will mean Costa del Sol. He certainly found his vocation with more clients coming to our restau- This followed in 2003 with a popular Thomas always looking for exciting

C/ San Sebastián, 8. Mijas Pueblo

Reservas / Bookings : 952 59 03 93

“Descubre nuestro gran secreto” “Discover our great secret” www.aromacafeandsecretgarden.com

HIDDEN: The Secret Garden must be seen for a new ventures, the best by far when in 2009 the pair opened their first restaurant together, after finding a hidden overgrown garden

of success

glass of wine, coffee, lunch or supper in the heart of the pueblo. Clearing out the brambles and rubbish, they shipped in tables and created an Argenti-

TOP TUCKER: At La Cucina di Nico nian-style bbq called Aroma Cafe & Secret Garden, which eventually started to make money. “It was a very tough few early years,” explains Hugo. “And it wasn’t until we got the concept right that things started to work. “Finally we created the bbq out of a recycled staircase and suddenly it went wild.” Since then they have invested more and more in the remarkable gardens,

which are a must-visit, if only for a glass of wine or coffee. “We wanted to create a sensation, something visual, not just a place to eat,” adds Thomas, who first arrived in Europe in the 1990s as a ski rep in the Swiss Alps. The pair now run three restaurants together, Aroma, Meguiñez and Latitud 36 tapas grill, while Thomas also owns Tapintxos and an Italian trattoria, called La Cucina di Nico, named

March 27th - April 9th 2019

GRILL KINGS: Hugo and chef lead the way after his son. It seems to be a winning formula,” he Hugo meanwhile has just opened a explains. restaurant in Fuengirola, called Tanit, “Mijas’ culinary scene is getting more with his son Simon. and more exciting all the time. As if not busy enough already, Thomas “When I arrived here over 20 years also runs an exciting eco-cosmetic ago, there were a lot of over-priced company, Weller Ecology, which sells places and very little quality. We have from his three shops in the town, as helped to change that.” well as another in Ronda. He puts his ability to run so many The shop sells a range of products, businesses in one place down to two including Spain’s only 100% organic things: being able to walk between CBD cosmetics line, he explains. them, and his excellent team. The group collectively employs around “I think it’s good to be involved with 60 to 115 local workers - the largest lots of very different projects, and to private employer in the village - and always be taking on something comThomas is constantly on the move, pletely different,” he says. looking to improve his products and “That way, if one thing starts to lapse restaurants. you can always rely on the others.” “All our places offer good food, good service and simple, good ingredients. www.aromacafeandsecretgarden.com

Mijas

ll about

IJAS Pueblo has had some changes over the years since Susanne Teres arrived in 1984 and started Mijas Properties & Holidays. However, the great thing is, so much of the Pueblo that she fell in love with, is still the same. The friendliness of the locals, the great climate, the typical white houses with flower pots, the churches, plazas, cafes and shops still bustling. Mijas Pueblo is so beautiful with sea and mountain views, tranquil developments settling in the hillsides, it continues to capture the hearts of new visitors every day. Mijas Properties & Holidays have a spacious office

The popularity of Mijas dates back to Greek and Roman times

Brexit? Who cares close to the Town Hall and offer a great portfolio of properties for sale in the area plus holiday and long term rentals. D e s p i te all the uncertainty of Brexit, British people are still buying along with other nationalities. The friendly, professional team all speak English and are the only

agents in the village to offer a safe purchase guarantee covering any kind of legality 20 years after purchase! Aftersales care and advice are always available. Susanne (pictured left) and her team are so proud and feel privileged to be selling and renting in their little piece of Paradise! Pop in to see them for a chat if you are thinking of selling or buying without any pressure, or check out their website www.mijasproperties.com. Mijas Properties and Holidays Tel: (34) 952 485 025 info@mijasproperties.com

TS whitewashed houses with low windows and tiny doorways are characteristically Moorish, typical of other Andalusian mountain villages. But Mijas Pueblo is a lot older than it looks. Founded in prehistoric times, it was previously occupied by Greeks and Romans who sought the area’s rich minerals and resources: marble and agate excavated in the mountains, esparto grown for weaving baskets, espadrilles and hats and nutrient-rich soil which produces some of the best olives in the region.

Harvest

You can learn all about it at the town’s Casa Museo ethnographic museum. “My family used to have five huge vats in our house,” says Carmen Escalona Vega, a volunteer at the museum. She tells us her father had a small farm where he used to harvest olives and produce oil to fill these huge containers, preserving it for up to a year. “Back then we didn’t have a fridge. We didn’t need one,” she says. A similar story rings true with many families in the area. Before the tourism boom of the 1950s and 60s, most people lived off the land and the donkeys which have become one of the village’s attractions had tougher

Donkeys, olives and more STREET SCENE: Typical whitewashed houses jobs, transporting produce and powering flour mills. Caves dug into the mountains were once used for storing to-

matoes. Now it’s the constant beat of tourist feet that feeds the town today.

Mijas Properties was established in 1984 by Susanne Terés. Specialists in Mijas Pueblo and surrounding area for over 35 years! Sales Short / Long Term Rentals

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Here are just a few of the fantastic properties we have on the market – for more information on these properties and others available – please visit our website or pop in & meet us! Located in the heart of Mijas Village, near the Town hall If you are thinking of putting your property on for sale or rent, please do not hesitate to call us!

www.mijasproperties.com Tel : 952 485 025 - info@mijasproperties.com Avda. Virgen de la Peña 8, Mijas Pueblo

March 27th - April 9th 2019

OCEANS OF FUN: To be had at El Oceano

A crafty lot hats and even shoes, with examples at the Mijas folk museum (see right) meanwhile other snapshots of Mijas in days gone by include an underdeveloped La Cala in the 1960s

A slice of heaven

F you’re looking to treat yourself this year then look no further than El Oceano Luxury Boutique Beach Hotel. The perfect beachfront hotel, situated between Marbella and La Cala de Mijas, offers an outdoor pool, pool bar, VIP sunbeds, the Martini Lounge and a fantastic restaurant to boot. And it helps that there’s always friendly and highly trained staff ready to offer impeccable service. Meanwhile, the rooms, which were recently redesigned, are spacious and luxurious and give every guest a ‘feel good factor’. Most of them are OceanFront Mini-Suites offering stunning views of the coast.

But for those who prefer to self-cater, there are 15 beautifully appointed south-facing studio apartments offering a little privacy, away from the main hotel. And don’t forget the hotel’s new Penthouses. Constructed in 2016, they consist of four spectacular, private Pe n t h o u s e s , all with uninterrupted sea views. Many of the rooms offer spectacular views of the North African coast, the Pillars of Hercules and the Rock of Gibraltar...and just under your nose, there’s a quiet, secluded beach, heaven! The hotel is taking bookings for April NOW so visit www. oceanohotel.com to book yourself a slice of heaven.

DE LAS O D N TE U M

LAS

CREATIVITY AND RESOURCEFULNESS: Mijas workers created an industry around the weaving of esparto grass, men picking it in the high mountains and women folk creating a range of baskets,

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Mijas

La Cala de Mijas

Hotel Carmen CONTRASTS: Inland dream at La Cala Resort and beach paradise at El Oceano

since 2013

WHERE TO STAY

@hotel_carmen

La Cala de Mijas Costa del Sol - Málaga (Spain) Tel. (+34) 952 494 014 www.hotel-carmen.es reservas@hotel-carmen.es

Hotel Carmen

IJAS has a great range of places to stay, from good budget options to grand luxury. The top end certainly includes La Cala Resort and Spa, one of the coast’s most exclusive hideouts and probably the best golf hotel in Spain. Counting on no less than three courses, along with fabulous fairways there are grass football training pitches pitches and a large gym - used by soccer teams from Everton to Steaua Bucharest, the England side included - and an overriding sense of nature and peace drawn from the stunning views to faraway mountains and Mijas village in the distance. This charming four-star hotel’s Thai-style spa introduces you to a range of exotic treatments in therapy rooms looking out across the valley. And after a hard day’s detoxing, fasting and pampering you don’t need to look far for your next meal - swanky La Terraza restaurant or the more informal Bodega next door. Another super luxury place to stay is El Oceano, perched on the coast as its name promises, just outside La Cala village. This stunning spot is still looking fabulous after its multi-million refit of two years ago. The suites are sumptuous and incredibly well-appointed, each with their own balcony over-

Sweet dreams

looking the rocky coastline. No wonder it’s full of celebrities and VIPs in summer, with many paying more than €500 euros a night. Run by John Palmer, his wife Lorraine and sonin-law Glen, there’s a real family feel about the place that keeps regulars coming back. For a more economical option, the Hotel Carmen in La Cala de MIjas is a great bet. The rooms at this two-star establishment are spotless and represent excellent value in a great location close to the action. For another prime spot up in the village, look out for Casa Tejon, offering spacious apartments with a great price/quality ratio. And coming soon, a new series of excellent one and two bedroom apartments being offered by Thomas Weller of the Aroma chain, the very epitome of comfort.

29 March 27th - April 9th

WHERE TO EAT

Toast of the coast

MAESTROS: Oceano’s Squires and Blue Marlin team

Mijas has a surprisingly vibrant restaurant scene, writes Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke

E has become a global superstar as with plenty of rich stews and popular dishes much for his appearances on British TV like seafood pasta and an amazing clam chowas for his celebrated three Michelin stars. der. But few people know that British culinary This couple became famous from the TV show genius Michel Roux Jr (right) cites Mijas as the A New Life in the Sun and run a tight ship, if town that inspired him to follow in the footsteps you’ll excuse the fishy pun, with hundreds of regulars swearing by of his famous father at two Michelin their place. star Le Gavroche in London. It is not really surpriThe British-born maestro of Mastersing, given that the pair chef and Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitran restaurants back in chen fame visited the pueblo with his Scotland, while chef Stefamily as a child and revealed how ve has worked in many he tried things he had ‘never tasted places around the world before’. and his family have been “I remember I got a great big chunk running inns as far back of honey in the comb and was baffled as 1760. as to how to attack it. I ended up just And there is more at scraping and sucking it. wonderful El Oceano, a “I had orange juice, too – made with hotel restaurant right on fresh, real squeezed oranges.” It is a legacy that has been continued Continues on Page 30 to this day by London-trained chefs like Joffrey Charles and William Squires, at El Oceano restaurant. “It’s getting better and better here and there is a lot of competition,” exA MIJAS restaurant is celebrating plains Squires, who worked for four 25 years in business. years under famous Melbourne chef Restaurant Ole is a favourite Joel Valvason. among locals and expats and “There are a lot of young chefs with serves everything Spanish with new ideas and it’s great to try new meats, fish and paellas readily things, then get back and do things available. with a new twist,” he adds. And it’s no wonder it has surviTake a spin around La Cala these ved for more than two decades, days and you will find the wonderful with a quiet and cozy atmosphePura Cepa wine bar, Pura Sangre re, friendly staff and unbeatable and the amazing Blue Marlin fish prices. restaurant - probably the best on the The stalwart eatery is situated in coast. the Los Claveles III urbanisation The only ‘northern European fish resin La Cala and is open seven days a week from 6pm to 11pm. taurant’ in the area - run by Alison and Steve Hyatt - I found them hard at FAMILY FARE: Call 952 492 162 to book your it, prepping stews and dishes hours Juan and Victor at table or visit www.restauranbefore opening. Restaurante Ole teole.es for more information. The fish here is unbelievably good

Silver service

VOTED NO.1 SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN LA CALA DE MIJAS ON TRIPADVISOR AND ‘EXCELLENT’ ON THE FORK

SEA FOOD D I F F E R E N T LY EARLY BIRD MENU – BEST QUALITY AND VALUE ON THE COAST Includes a starter and main course with a complimentary glass of wine/small beer or soft drink. Available 6pm - 8pm – 25€

LA20€ CARTE • Early A Bird - 6pm - 8pm AVAILABLE FROM • A La Carte Menu from6PM 6pm BOOKING RECOMMENDED SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD Open Tuesday - Saturday from 6pm

Tel: 952 49 35 04 | Mob: 661 84 33 83 Avenida de Rota, Urb. Torrenueva, Local 1, La Cala de Mijas

www.thebluemarlin.eu

Open Monday to Saturday 14:00 to 23:00, Sunday closed June to October Open 7 days a week, Monday to Sunday

Cafeteria Churreria Cañon

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WHERE TO EAT From Page 29

Open: 06.30 - 16.00 Sundays/Domingos – Closed/Cerrado Breakfast/Desayunos: 06.30 - 13.00 Churros: 07.00 - 12.30 Menu of the Day/Menu Del Dia: 13.00 - 16.00 Tel: 952 587 645 Pso de Boulevard No.13 La Cala de Mijas Cafeteria Churreria Cañon

Mijas

the beach which is glamour personified. Head chef William Squires, 31, (right) has worked around the world, including four years in Australia and three in Ireland, and has built up a rave repertoire for Asiatic dishes in particular. The beef tartare is his ‘tete de cuvee’, marinated overnight, then rolled in peppercorns, seared for 30 seconds and rested in the fridge before being served. I also liked the tempura prawns with wasabi and the excellent scallops with ham while my winning pick would be the original take on Manchego Arancini, rice balls seasoned with saffron. The restaurant offers front row seats right on the beach and, after a multi-million euro overhaul, is even more glamorous than before. For yet another completely different style, head 400 metres inland to find the fantastic family-style Ole restaurant where Juan Go-

mez has been on the go for an incredible 25 years. Juan is a charming host – speaking perfect English. With son Victor, equally full of bonhomie, they put great emphasis on fresh ingredients, sourcing much from their finca near Ronda. “I buy all the meat and fish and go shopping every day to the local markets to find the very best ingredients,” explains Juan. “And price/quality is the key to my success.” Expect to eat fantastic stuffed red peppers, delicious lettuce hearts with anchovies, and great salmon cooked in a spicy dill sauce. Last but not least, if credentials were needed to run a wine bar, owning your own vineyard would certainly help. Meanwhile, Ronda chef Paco Flores at Pura Sangre has been making a name for himself with a stunning range of creative dishes. PURE BRED QUALITY: Paco Flores He first came into and sous chef at Puro Sangue while the public eye with (below) team at The Blarney his award-winning ‘gazpachuelo’ at Madrid Fusion in PADDY’S in La Cala Hills offers the perfect Guinness pou2012. red from Dublin crafted taps, in the newly refurbished suHe now divides his rrounding of Mijas Golf’s first Irish pub. time between his La The pioneering pub is run by charming Irish couple Mick Cala eaterie and a and Dee, who have enjoyed 20 years in the trade from Kilkenny to Gran Canaria. new restaurant, FaThe experience pairs’ winning combo of warmth, great brica, in Fuengirola, food and craic has already proved a hit on the mainland. which used to be the With tasty food to have in or go, tuck into a full breakfast, legendary Toston. golden jack potatoes or traditional fish with hand cuts Finally, in La Cala chips. look out for The The pub’s first Paddy’s Day was a lively affair with five Blarney, which is a empty barrels standing testament to a memorable day great spot for lunch, shared by all. or an excellent Tomorrow sees Paddy’s first Karaoke Night, hosted by Jabreakfast. son Walsh from 8pm until 11pm, sing your favourite tunes Open for a year it is or just soak up the atmosphere with friends. garnering a good reBe sure to call ahead to avoid disappointment. putation.

PADDY’S PROMISE

PADDYS BAR

LA CALA HILLS

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OPEN 9 TILL LATE tel: 951 068 586 Calle Acebuche, 14, La Cala Hills, Málaga, Spain

31 March 27th - April 9th 2019

PUEBLO REVOLUTION Heading up towards the pueblo you have a few exciting places to eat, the best easily being Casa Navarro, serving the area for decades. It is one of the most prestigious tables one can imagine with everyone from Lady Diana to Julio Iglesias have dined there. It is a true family affair, open since 1990 and with an amazing collection of wines in its cellar going way beyond that. “We’ve had everyone eating here from Lady Diana to the Rolling Stones and both Julio Iglesias and his son Enrique on lots of occasions,” explains owner Carlos. But you are here really to try the food and the real star of the restaurant is Carlos’s daughter Leire, whose vegetable dishes are lush and include chard with almonds and thistles (cardoons) with ham, both great dishes. Up in the pueblo itself you absolutely have to check out the Secret Garden, one of the definitive dining secrets of the coast. This oasis, tucked away behind its more typical whitewashed sister restaurant Aroma, is a beautiful hidden garden in the heart of the village. It’s a superb place to kick back and enjoy a nice mix of authentic Iberian dishes alongside Argentinean fare – particularly steaks - thanks to co-owner Hugo German. Part of a group of restaurants owned by Hugo and his business partner Thomas Weller, make sure to look out for their Taberna Meguinez (which means ‘Are you winking at me?’) which has an excellent menu, as well as the fishy delights at Latitud 36. Then there’s Tapintxos, inspired by Thomas’s love of the north of Spain, and his new Italian La Cucine di Nico where the osso bucco is some-

BOULEVARD DE LA CALA

MEAT-FEAST: At Casa Navarra

thing special. There are quite a few other good restaurants and new places to eat tapas but few beat La Bodega del Pintor, which also has a lovely hidden garden at the back. Welcoming owner Amparo was actually born in this charming spot, which offers visitors the chance to dine in a historic 300-year-old townhouse. Atmospheric in the extreme, the restaurant serves up plenty of wines by the glass to go with its tempting tapas. “I wanted to create the sense that you are dining in someone’s home,” explains Amparo, whose 86-year-old mother still lives upstairs.

LA CALA DE MIJAS

THE SCOTTISH PREMIER LEAGUE THE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE

A LARGE SELECTION OF RUMS & GINS LIVE MUSIC AND KARAOKE

Come and try our famous breakfast Also serving fresh food and bar snacks The ONLY Bar in La Cala serving BREWDOG (bottles and on tap)

ADALID CALLE BEN THE REAL THAI BLARNEY ESTATE

The Blarney La Cala de Mijas

SUPERSOL

D AR EV

LA CALA DE MIJAS

BUSINESS

Streaming investment

A SPANISH streaming service has announced it is investing €200 million into a new studio. The Mediapro Studio will develop and produce scripted and non-scripted film and TV projects across Europe, South America and the US. Spain’s answer to Netflix and based in Madrid and Barcelona, it already has 34 series in the works in Spain, the UK, Italy, Portugal, Colombia, Finland, the US, Middle East and elsewhere.

Unique

“The time has come to move beyond our role as a production company and to become a studio,” said Mediapro Group managing partner Jaume Roures. “For 25 years, we have produced hundreds of great quality projects all around the world, with the ability to develop global content. Because of this, we feel we are ready to go one step further and create unique content.” It comes as streaming services continues to cash in thanks to an ever-growing demand for high-quality series and films.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Former US leader to be keynote speaker at tourism conference in Andalucia BARACK Obama is coming to Andalucia next month. The former US President is attending the World Travel & Tourism Council World Congress (WTTC), the travel industry’s biggest annual conference. Put on by the World Travel & Tourism Council, this year it will take place in Sevilla from April 2 to 4. Obama will give a keynote speech on the theme of ‘Changemakers’ to celebrate the people and ideas that will change the future of the sector. WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said: “Du-

Obama jets in

ring his tenure, Obama embodied the notion that travel and tourism are a factor for economic growth and job creation.” Obama is allegedly paying a debt with the city after a scheduled visit in July 2016 was cancelled when five police officers were killed in Dallas.

Empowerment

VISITING: Obama

Die another Dia ONE of Spain’s main supermarkets has been saved from collapse thanks to a €500 million cash injection. Investors voted to back a rescue plan for Dia which saw the funds come from the struggling supermarket’s biggest shareholder, Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman. Investors rejected Dia’s

proposal of a €600m ‘rights issue’, dealing a harsh no-confidence vote to company management and laying the groundwork for a buyout by Fridman. A rights issue is an invitation to existing shareholders to purchase additional new shares in a company to raise capital.

According to Forbes, issues that will be discussed include ‘extolling seamless global travel through the use of biometrics and digital identity in an era of heightened security concerns’. Investment in community tourism and social entrepreneurship will also be on the docket. How the industry can make a positive impact on communities and how increasing female roles can reduce poverty and support empowerment will also be discussed. It comes after it was revealed this month that Spain raked in €178 billion from tourism last year, accounting for 14.6% of the country’s GDP and 14.7% of all jobs.

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tel: 952 89 25 15 C/Espinosa – Edif Manisabi, Local 12 Ctra Sabinillas, 29692, Manilva (Málaga)

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Get covered!

Three reasons why you should buy life insurance

IFE insurance is a necessary purchase that has the benefit of giving you and your family peace of mind. Life insurance not only provides financial protection in the event of death but it is also a savings product that offers benefits that are becoming ever more extensive and customisable, so it is not surprising that, after car and home insurance, it is the third most contracted insurance cover in Spain. The average profile of a person who contracts life insurance is a married male aged between 35 and 44 years old, but it is never too late or early to take out a policy. 1. Arrange a mortgage to buy a house In Spain, six out of ten homes are bought with a mortgage. In this case, it is advisable to take out life insurance because, in case of death or permanent disability of the person who contracted the mortgage, the insurer will take over the payments to the bank and remove your partner or relatives from the economic responsibility that could be difficult to continue with. In fact, with most banks it is a pre-requisite as a guarantee before signing the mortgage. Until recently, banking entities conditioned their mortgage lending with an ‘obligation’ to contract some linked products, such as Life insurance. But since a few years ago, with the approval of the European Parliament of the Mortgage Credit Directive, banks are prohibited by law from linking a mortgage to the purchase of insurance. You only need that your insurance company includes a clause in your policy registering your lending bank as the mortgage beneficiary. In that way, you comply with the request of the bank but you also save money. You could even save a di-

fference of €700 as the products offered by the bank can be up to 300% more expensive. 2. Starting a family It should be taken into account that raising a child in Spain can be expensive. It has been estimated that a baby can cost 14,266 euros during its first year of life and 14,056 euros during the next two. On average, a child can represent the disbursement of 1,183 euros per month during

its first three years, which represents 80.78% of the average monthly net salary of a worker. It will depend on each person’s standard of living, but before the child turns 18 the parents could have spent between €115,000 and €350,000. If at any time one of the parents dies, it will be difficult for the family to maintain the same rhythm of life. In those cases, although the personal loss will be irreplaceable, life insurance could guarantee the necessary capital to meet family expenses. With Liberty Seguros, even if the insured

dies in an accident along with his/her spouse and they have children younger than 18, the beneficiaries will receive double the sum insured. 3. Protect your income level Last year there were 3,796 serious occupational accidents in Spain. Of these, 618 had fatal consequences. The possibility of suffering an accident at work or outside that causes a permanent or temporary disability exists, so it is a wise choice to protect your income level. It will depend on each policy, but the insured can receive an advance payment of the contracted capital in case of temporary or permanent incapacity that prevents them from working and, therefore, affects their income, whether as a result of an accident or illness. In fact, with Liberty Seguros, the insured will be advanced the sum insured for death if he/she is diagnosed with one of the following serious illness or needs one of the following operations: cancer, heart attack, cardiovascular accident, kidney failure, bypass surgery, paralysis and transplant of vital organs, in accordance with the terms established in the special conditions of the policy. With insurance, not only for life, but also car, home, business, commercial, funeral, etc., Liberty Seguros is considered the preferred expat insurer in Spain today. Liberty Seguros has an extensive network of over 300 brokers and agents that are dedicated to providing unbiased, friendly and expert advice, because every home is different and such an important decision deserves a face to face chat with a professional insurance advisor, in your own language, to discuss the most suitable cover for you.

To find out more visit www.libertyexpatriates.es or simply call 91 342 25 49

Mar 27th - April 9th 2019

Four star arrival A MANSION in Malaga’s old town has been earmarked for a new four star hotel by investors. The late 19th century property, located in the Plaza de Marques del Vado, had been listed for sale at €3.2 million. Previous proposals for the 1,300 square metre building included plans for around 20 rooms. The protected building contains period features such as an Italian double-step stair-

PROPERTY

Cash magnets Spain’s costas are still attracting wealthy overseas buyers as the second home market grows

Chosen: Old mansion case and patio with wooden carpentry. The new owners of the property have not been revealed.

The Grapevine

Spring is here

COSTA CASH: Coast still attracts wealthy buyers

by Laura Wood

You can’t buy happiness...but you can be in Andalucia in spring

than anticipated,” said Lucas Fox partner Tom Maidment. “While some other regions have seen a drop in sales volume in 2018, the likes of the Costa Brava and Costa del Sol seem to have bucked the trend and are attracting a very specific profile of buyer – the wealthy second home lifestyle investor.”

Buyers

He added that Palafrugell and Begur on the Costa Brava, as well as Sitges, have seen the greatest demand for second homes. The price of homes sold in coastal areas has also been rising rising, with Lucas Fox’s average increasing from €951,253 in 2017 to €1,181,724 in 2018 - a 24% increase.

Schindler’s de-list-ed

AN you all feel it? That som scatters the countryside pinch of primavera in with white and pink, making the air? you feel like singing 'Edelweiss'. As seasoned travellers You start to debate whether it's know: it's never the destina- warm enough to swim in the tion, always the journey. piscina yet. It's never the highlight of the The brave jump in and soon reseason that is exciting, but its gret their decision. build-up. The not-so-brave dip their toe And, oh my, how Andalucia in and decide otherwise. knows about There is the first theatrical buildshorts or trouups. The weather is sers debate in That's why the morning. spring is our evolving towards In Spain thefavourite time that ideal mix of re is a famous of the year in saying: ‘Hasta warm sun and inland Malaga. el 40 de Mayo New beginno te quites el cool shade nings! sayo’, warning Step by step, you to not put the days are away your wingetting longer, the weather is ter clothes until early June! evolving towards that ideal mix They clearly haven't spent May of warm in the sun and cool in and June time on the Andaluthe shade. cian coastline, the weather is The almond and orange blos- glorious!

THE Costa del Sol, Costa Brava and Ibiza are continuing to attract wealthy foreign buyers, an international estate agent has confirmed. Increasing numbers of international buyers are coming to Spain’s coasts, according to Lucas Fox. The luxury property agency claims that mid to high-end foreign buyers are being lured to Spain as the second homes market continues to boom. Their reports show that Spain’s most desirable spots saw a 51% rise in the proportion of buyers in 2018. Scandinavian and French people were the most common foreign buyers, making up 86% of that group. “The increase in sales volume on the Costas in 2018 compared with 2017 was much greater

NEW BEGINNINGS: Andalucia in Spring

You begin to organise the first barbeque of the year. Will it be a big affair or with just 5000 of your most intimate friends? This year you're going to branch out from burgers and sausages. This year you're going to grill fillets of pork and tuna steaks. No, peppers and mushrooms only. No, just salad. You stay optimistic.

Visit us at Calle El Burgo, 5, Guaro or contact us at tel. 952 457 761 enquiries@grapevine-properties.com

The villages have their first meetings about the Semana Santa or the Romeria. You see more horses on streets and more sheep shepherds in the fields. If it's your first time reading our column, pardon our enthusiasm. You will have to know that in this world there are enthusiastic people, very enthusiastic people, and then those who live in inland Malaga.

THE forgotten villa of ‘Spain’s own Schindler’ has been torn down despite more than 500 people finding refuge there during the Spanish Civil War, which ended 80 years ago this month. Villa Maya in Malaga was owned by the honorary consul of Mexico, Porfirio Smerdou, who hid both Nationalists and Republicans who were under threat of assassination. The villa, in El Limonar, had no protection, despite its historical relevance. “Porfirio Smerdou was a very important character, a human being who tried to avoid what was happening on both sides and who even suffered reprisals from the fascist troops when they entered Malaga despite having helped many of their own,” historian Francisco Espinosa said. The consul used his contacts to help people esca-

DIGNITY: Smerdou pe, leading journalist Diego Carcedo to name him the ‘Schindler of the Civil War’. German Oskar Schindler saved 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories and bribing Nazi officials. His acts were turned into a film Schindler’s List, starring Ralph Fiennes. When Smerdou died in Madrid in 2002 at the age of 97, his son Luis said: “Greatness without reward, honour without fame, dignity without brightness, that was his life.”

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

‘MADRE’ is the new farewell menu of Dani Garcia’s Marbella restaurant that he chose to close less than a month after winning his third Michelin star. Garcia has revealed that this final menu of his self-titled eatery, which sums up his 20 years in the kitchen, was inspired by his mother. “Mother represents everything for me,” the 43-year-old Marbella-born cook said. “For me, mother is undoubtedly who inspired me and woke up in me the love for the kitchen.” Garcia’s new collection of food will see some of his most classic culinary creations brought together. Guiding the curation of the new menu was the idea of dishes that have represented ‘an important milestone’ in Garcia’s life. Among those monumental creations are his ajoblanco with herring caviar and even the ‘BIBO’ burger he came up with for McDonald’s. Garcia added: “Mother is also my land, Andalucia is the place I was born, and what gave me the culture, and the produce of the kitchen that we use today.” The celebrated chef made his astonishing announcement in December that he would close Restaurante Dani Garcia. It came just 22 days after receiving his third Michelin star.

1992. But Ruiz hit back, saying that the Eolo project had been developed, ‘following the law scrupulously’. Garcia is now believed to have taken over the project with local unnamed backers and may brand it a ‘BiBo’ restaurant, like the ones he has in Marbella and Madrid. He is expected to construct the ‘temporary’ restaurant on the 372 square metre plot, over the next couple of months. It will be open by the summer and will have enough space for 400 car parking spaces.

FAREWELL: Garcia Tarifa’s mayor insisted the project ‘respected the local environment’ adding that it was ‘not permanent’. “We are very satisfied with the difference between the two projects,” he said.

What a line up

Leading Sherry bodega Gonzalez Byass has chosen popular Vejar eaterie Califa for its latest photo shoot

Open Tuesday to Sunday. until 22.00 Closed 12.00 until mid February

Mum’s cooking

Boiling water

AG A

ged to halt the plans, claiming that protected species would be threatened, including otters, black-footed plover and osprey. It led to the company to pull out, with the mayor slamming the ecologists for destroying the project. “Our mayor, a biologist by profession, lives in another world: one without empathy for the environment,” Rosmarie Hennecke-Gramatzki of green group Equo said. Along with political party Podemos, the organisation alleges that the ambitious beachside plans do not comply with the EU’s ‘habitat directive’ of

THE Costa del Sol’s most famous chef could find himself in boiling water over plans to open a restaurant in one of Andalucia’s best protected areas. Marbella’s three Michelin starred chef Dani Garcia is likely to find opposition to his plans to build a chiringuito at a spot on the Costa de la Luz where a development was stopped last year. The beach bar, planned for Tarifa’s Valdevaqueros beach as part of the Eolo project, was given the green light by Tarifa Council and Mayor Francisco Ruiz in 2017. But environmentalists mana-

Top chef set to battle environmentalists over new restaurant at beauty spot

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Mar 27th - April 9th 2019

Documeatery JAMON has jumped from the deli counter to the silver screen at this year’s Malaga Film Festival. ‘Jamon, a story of essence,’ is the documentary, released on March 22, which stars the Joselito brand of the cured meat, declared the ‘the best jamon in the world’. The film, directed by Alessandro Pugno, is a celebration of the pork company whose product is sold in 60 countries. “Throughout the surprising experience that has been shooting the documentary, I have realised that jamon Iberico is not meat, but a concept closer to the world of goldsmithing,” said Pugno.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Andalucia has a shining star among the five lucky restaurants to win three suns in this year’s Repsol Guide

A RESTAURANT in Andalucia is among five new restaurants to have been awarded three suns in the 40th edition of the coveted Repsol Guide. Paco Morales of Noor in Cordoba was among the few lucky chefs, awarded for cuisine that draws on the inspirations of ‘Al-Andalus’. The Cordoba-born chef, who opened Noor in 2016, has an impressive CV, in-

with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Cordoba king

cluding a Michelin star and a training background with Spanish culinary legend Ferran Adria at El Bulli. The Repsol guide stated: “The innovative and exquisite dishes from the kitchens of the elite of Al-Andalus, which conquered the world, return to Noor every season under the guidance of Paco Morales.”

Gill power ONE of the biggest bluefin tuna ever caught in Spain has gone on sale at the Las Palmas Central Market in Gran Canaria. The 342kg fish, which could be worth worth up to €4,000, was caught by the Montesdeoca brothers as the 2019 Canaries tuna season begins. They will now sell the three metre-long beast at market for €28.9 a kilo, after using a crane to unload their haul from a van. Despite the size of the tuna, the brothers are still way off catching the biggest ever bluefin, which weighed in at 679kg and was caught by Ken Fraser in Canada in 1979.

Perfect Winter Break 2x1 Special Offer in January and February

Among the other highlig h t s of the R e p s o l FAMOUS FIVE: The three suns winners famous five was Maca de Castro, a Mallorcan chef who runs a restaurant of the same name in Port d’Alcudia. Remarkably, the Balearic cook is one of only two women who currently have three suns, the other being Elena Arzak. Another chef ‘unclassifiable’ dishes. worth noting The outlandish kitchen, among the which this season is basing three sun-re- its menu off ‘ideological incipients is Al- teractions’, is now offering berto Ferruz customers a 10% discount to of BonAmb celebrate their award. in Alicante, In this anniversary edition whose res- of the Repsol Guide, launtaurant was ched at foodie hotspot San celebrated by Sebastian, 53 new chefs are Repsol for its given recognition.

RECORD: Goat’s cheese

One of a rind

THE biggest goat’s cheese in Spain has been created in Gran Canaria, tipping the scales at 174kg - enough to satisfy Monster Mouse. Quesos Bolanos is the family firm behind the Titanic-sized truckle which was produced using 1,200 litres of milk and is also the largest cheese ever made in the region. A Valencian company commissioned the cheese, which will now be sold off in portions in November once the 11-month maturing phase is over. The super-sized dairy creation even earnt Quesos Bolanos a visit from Agriculture Minister Narvay Quintero, who described them as ‘pioneering’.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

restaurant | lunch and dinner restaurant | lunch and dinner

Brexit food map

Brexit means Brexit for the fresh Spanish produce making its way to the UK, and Andalucia will feel the heat more than most, writes Charlie Smith

Galicia - fish

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If the UK leaves the EU with a hard Brexit, the Galician fishermen employed by the UK could be forced to leave British waters immediately. Around 66 Galician boats operate in the Gran Sol, west of the UK, and another 30 Galician-manned UK vessels in the EU could be prevented from docking at European ports come B-day. Around 1,700 jobs in Galicia hang in the balance, while the economic blow could be €500m to an area that provides octopus, shrimp, crab, lobster and more to the UK.

Guijuelo, Salamanca - jamon iberico The UK Government has said 13% of Spain’s products could be subject to import tariffs under a no-deal Brexit, including jamon iberico at €10.2 per 100 kilos imported. Guijuelo is among four denominations of origin recognised by the EU for jamon iberico production. The others are D.O.P. Jabugo (Huelva), D.O.P. Los Pedroches (Cordoba) and D.O.P. Dehesa de Extremadura (Caceres and Badajoz). The D.O.P. Jamón de Guijuelo area is responsible for 60% of Spain’s jamon iberico. Across the country, there are around 30 million pigs being reared at one time, with the pork industry worth about €6bn annually.

Huelva - strawberries and soft fruit More than 85% of all of Spain’s strawberry exports are grown in the province, worth a total of €437m in 2018. The UK is the second biggest market for Huelva’s soft fruit, having imported 16% of the area’s strawberries, 34% of it raspberries and 26% of its blueberries in 2018. The main Brexit worry in the province is ‘border hold-ups’, according to Rafael Dominguez, manager of Freshuelva, the industry association for Huelva’s strawberry market.

Balearic Islands - almonds

Calle Espinosa, Sabinillas, Manilva Tel: 952 893 198

Last season, between August and October, Spain produced around 60,000 tonnes of almonds, with the majority from Ibiza and Mallorca. On Mallorca alone there are estimated to be 5 million almond trees, covering 55,000 hectares of land. A study by the Institute of

Agro-food Quality of the Balearic Islands found that 52.4% of almond consumers said that Mallorcan almonds were a superior quality to other types, most respondents citing rich taste as the reason. Tariffs could damage farmers.

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FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL RED wine, cheese, cured meat...they’re just the obvious ones. Spain exports a wealth of fantastic produce to the world, and especially to the UK - €4 bn-worth if we’re counting. When the British Isles shiver - which is often - the population relies on a harvest-load of fruit and veg from Spain. But Brexit looks set to seriously threaten UK imports, affecting everyone from hipster London ‘foodie’ enclaves to budget supermarket vegetable aisles. Waiting times at borders, import tariffs and working restrictions could all see the inflow of Spanish food and drink into Britain dwindle to a trickle. The decline was already in motion in the months following the 2016 EU referendum. In the first year after the vote, sales of Spanish goods to Britain fell by 6%. According to the Bank of Spain the ‘agri-food’ sector, along

March 27th - April 9th 2019

with car manufacturing, represented almost half of the overall decline in sales. Things look even worse when you delve into what an increasingly likely no-deal Brexit would mean for food crossing the border. A National Audit Office report found that customs declarations would have to increase from 55million to 255million and at least 145,000 traders would have to declare for the first time. While customs trouble and border delays may not destroy long-lasting Spanish gems like wine and jamon, perishable items like fresh berries and salads are in real danger. However Luis Planas, Spanish Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food said a royal decree protected Spanish food, despite warnings that food safety and quality could decrease after Brexit.

The minister said he expected Brexit to be ‘as least traumatic as possible’ for the EU and the UK once it leaves the 27-nation bloc. But the cost of products would definitely ‘increase’, according to the Organisation of Entities of the Andalucian Social Food Economy. Of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities, Andalucia - known as the ‘garden of Spain’ growing produce as diverse as mangos and avocados, - would be the region worst-hit, especially as the UK is its fourth-largest customer. The next would be Murcia, which sends thousands of tonnes of salad to the UK every year would. Alicante is also badly affected. Here, we round up the Brexit clouds hanging over the Spanish regions putting food and drink on British tables.

La Rioja - wine North of Madrid, this tiny region ships more vino to the UK than any other wine-producing area of Europe. From January to October in 2018, its wineries sold 32 million litres of the good stuff to the British market. This came before news that the Spanish Wine Federation had advised producers on how to deal with Brexit, telling firms to ensure wine is correctly labelled and make advanced travel plans. It then emerged that one winery, Bodegas Riojanas had already completed 90% of its trade for the first half of 2019 ahead of Brexit.

Castilla-La Mancha - manchego The UK is the third biggest importer of Spanish Manchego after the US and Germany, buying around 1 million kilos a year, according to the Regulatory Council of Manchego cheese. But the cheese is definitely under threat from Brexit after the British Retail Consortium revealed its price had risen sharply since the UK’s decision to leave the EU. UK managing director of Arla Foods, Ash Amirahmadi, warned that specialist cheeses like Manchego which have limited production could become ‘very scarce’ after Brexit. Also, last April, the EU failed to grant Spanish Manchego farmers protected status following their hard-fought battle with Mexico. The country has retained the rights to make the cheese, despite not using sheep’s milk like the Spanish version.

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“We are so glad that you are open again” Whether you visit:

Alicante oranges and lemons

Murcia - lettuce, celery, broccoli, lemons, melon, grapes This small region is a food industry powerhouse, providing 32% of the UK’s fruit and veg imports, but it would be the Spanish region second most affected by Brexit after Andalucia, according to consultancy firm Oliver Wyman. This percentage increases during winter, when up to 80% of the fresh produce sold in the UK comes from Murcia. Over 517,000 tonnes of fresh produce, costing €580m, made their way from Murcia to the UK in 2018, with 400 lorries full of food making the journey every week.

The total agricultural output of the province exceeds 1.4 million tonnes, while its speciality is citrus fruit, 60% of which comes from the Vega Baja area. Fruit trees account for 31,391 hectares of the 131,389 total devoted to agriculture in the province. Business manager of fruit and veg firm Caja Rural Central, Juan Vicente Gonzalez, confirmed that while his firm is expanding in Alicante, Brexit does pose ‘instability’ for the region.

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advice

March 27th - April 9th 2019

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Fit for an Englishman

Eye on Madrid

Madrid’s born-again Gran Hotel Ingles is the lap of Belle Epoque luxury, discovers Olive Press editor Jon Clarke

T was once one of Madrid’s ritziest places to stay, serving up high-class hospitality to the likes of Virginia Woolf, Henri Matisse and the arty set. But somewhere along the line the Gran Hotel Ingles lost its pizazz, eventually falling into disrepair and

RELAXING: Roll top baths

lived in by squatters a decade ago. So it is a joy that Madrid’s oldest and most distinguished hotel has been brought back to life after a ravishing €17 million refit. Downsized from an original 72 rooms to a boutique 48, making them effectively suites, this 1886 gem oozes the elegance of a bygone age and its central location makes it a great choice for a long weekend in Madrid. Romantic in the extreme, it has hung on to its elegant Belle Epoque interiors but now with a dash of Art Deco in the mix. The seductive lobby sets the scene and you really imagine yourself sliding into one of the wide banquette booths and ordering a Singapore Sling while being offered a freshly-ironed copy of the Herald Tribune or London Times. Many original features have been

ELEGANCE: The grand lobby and some premium guests including Matisse and Virginia Woolf

saved, from time-faded photos of guests to vintage postcards and an ancient typewriter by the lifts. The original iron pillars soar up to reconstructed wall mouldings extended across the ceiling, creating a pattern resembling electric circuits. Our handsome young bartender quizzed us on tastes and zipped off to produce a cocktail to match our moods. The rooms are equally sumptuous although understated, nothing fancy - unless you count the top quality linens (500 thread-count Egyptian, don’t you know) and, in many, dreamy roll-top baths. The Lobo 8 restaurant is the place to wolf down a hearty breakfast, well-lit and with an enticing choice

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WELL LIT: Great start to the day in Lobo 8

- perfect for starting the day, although the Eggs Benedict were not quite the best I’ve ever tasted. With a Barrio de las Letras address - the intellectual home of Madrid - you are a short walk from from everything, including The Prado and Plaza Mayor (five minutes). But what is perhaps most commendable about the Gran Hotel In-

gles is the staff, who make guests feel relaxed and at home. They are there the moment you need them, and not when you don’t. Now, that’s what I expect from a good capital city five star! C/ Echegaray, 8 - 28014 Madrid www.granhotelingles.com (+34) 91 360 00 01

And here’s a trio of interesting things to do in Madrid this Spring, and a restaurant tip (above right):

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A museum Done the Prado and the Thyssen? Seen Sorolla and Guernica? How about the Museum of San Isidro, a relatively new showcase on the origins of the city and its saint. Filling a 16th century townhouse, it houses three floors of exhibits from the days of the Visigoths, Muslims and Mammoths.

A stroll Take a walk from here into Madrid de las Austrias, which skirts around the bottom of Plaza Mayor. Taking its name from the days of the Habsburg dynasty, it’s a dreamscape of stunning buildings and interesting shops. The street, Cava Baja, has maybe two dozen excellent (and very busy) places to eat on weekends.

with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

March 27th - April 9th 2019

3 CHEF: Cesar Martin

La la Lakasa

T A marvel TO BEHOLD Few people bother to visit Madrid’s Sistine Chapel, a work of art undertaken by Spain’s very own Michelangelo, Francisco Goya, in the 18th century. Down by the much improved Manzanares river area of the city, the dome and interior of San Antonio de La Florida chapel was painted in just 120 days and depicts a murdered man being brought back to life. It is coincidentally also where the painter is buried (minus his head!). Entrance is free and if you time it right (let’s say, lunch time) you might get it all to yourself.

ake a French maiden and a local Madrileno grafter and you get this wonderful new spot, Lakasa. While a little out of the way, it emerges as a stylish and original addition to the fast burgeoning Madrid restaurant scene. Cesar Martin has been a jobbing chef in the capital for years, now finally out on his own, with his girlfriend Marina, from Brittany, out front. It has a cool look with its vertical green wall partitions and an equally hip reggae-jazz fusion soundtrack on the speakers. Its main USP is that every one of its two dozen or so dishes come in a half portion, meaning for food freaks like me, you can have double the number! The mackerel in curry sau-

LUXURY: Diners enjoy a noght at Lakasa (above) and (right) some of Martin’s remarkable dishes

ce and the artichokes with pork belly were two good picks. I also got to finally try Lampreys, in a cress sauce. Now they are something else. To look at, too... There are also loads of wines by the glass, and thanks to Marina, a superb cider from Calvados. Restaurante Lakasa www.lakasa.es Plaza del Descubridor Diego de Ordás, 1 28003 Madrid, Spain Phone: +34 915 33 87 15

ARE YOU A UK NAT ONAL LIVING IN SPAIN? As the UK prepares to leave the EU, there may be changes that affect you. From residency rights, to work and pensions and local healthcare, you can find the latest information in the UK Government’s Living in Spain Guide. Sign up for email alerts and get the latest information at gov.uk/living-in-spain

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Mar 27th - April 9th 2019

HEALTH

Oil’s not good MERCADONA’S olive oil crisps could be a danger to health due to their high levels of a cancer-causing ingredient, the EU has warned. It comes after the Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) measured the levels of acrylamide in different products for sale across the common market. After analysing 477 products, Mercadona’s olive oil crisps were among the FIVE which exceeded the World Health Organisation’s recommended levels of acrylamide. Acrylamide - also found in cigarette smoke - is a potentially toxic and potentially cancer-causing substance that can be naturally present in uncooked, raw foods in very small amounts. It becomes toxic when present in large amounts and when the foods have been cooked - like in crisps. OCU is now calling for acrylamide limits in food to become mandatory.

Protecting your eyes from the spring sunshine

Buzz kill

Psychosis linked to Cannabis use in international study in Spain and Europe

CANNABIS use has been linked to psychosis in a study in Spain and five other countries. Researchers found consuming the drug daily TRIPLED the chance of a person developing the mental health disease. They also found this risk becomes five-fold if potent cannabis - which contains high levels of THC

JOINT STUDY: Psychosis linked to cannabis

- is consumed on a daily basis. Some 900 patients who had experienced their first

Amrik Sappal, Director of Specsavers Opticas in Fuengirola explains your options

s the weather hots up, it’s not just our skin feeling the heat. Our eyes too are affected by UV rays from the sun. That is why you need to take particular care on the beach, as sand reflects 15% of the UV radiation and sea foam 25%. This is not blocked by a hat, so it’s important to consider your options for protecting your eyes. 1. Standard or prescription polarising lenses Polarising lenses are a good option to eliminate glare, especially to stop the reflections when you’re at the beach. Once you’ve seen the difference, you won’t want to wear ordinary glasses again. These glasses are also great for driving. 2. Reactions lenses These are lenses which react to light, darkening when you are outside to become like sunglasses. These are good options if you would rather not change glasses but want to have UV protection and see clearly in all light conditions.

3. UV coating on your prescription glasses Many of our customers don’t like to change between their normal bifocal or varifocal lenses and sunglasses, so leave their eyes unprotected. However, we can add UV coating to your normal lenses, providing UV protection, without a tint. 4. UV coating plus sun tint You can transform your glasses by adding a brown, grey or green sun tint as well as a UV coating to both protect eyes, relieve eye strain and soften bright lights. It is so important that you don’t get caught out by the spring sunshine. Living in Spain, you need to protect your eyes all through the year to avoid damage to your eyes and your vision. Specsavers Opticas has just launched a new range of 28 new designer sunglasses and 52 own brand styles, including five great new kids’ styles for spring/summer 2019. They can also advise you on the best sun protection options to suit your preference and lifestyle.

Specsavers has stores in Fuengirola and Marbella on the Costa del Sol, visit www. specsavers.es to find your nearest store.

Ditch coal now! SPAIN’S healthcare system saved almost €1 billion thanks to a reduction in coal use in just two years, new figures have revealed. According to the International Institute of Law and Environment (IIDMA), there was a 30% reduction in the use of coal between 2015 and 2016, saving the country €952 million in health costs. However, over the same period, air pollution from coal-fired electricity generation still contributed to 1,529 premature deaths and 914 hospital admissions - costing around €3.5 billion. These costs include decreased productivity, such as 371,552 lost work days and 1,350,401 restricted activity days – coal is also blamed for a total of 20,112 asthma symptom days in asthmatic children and 2,066 cases of bronchitis across the country. The report called for the goal of phasing out coal by 2025 to be legally binding.

psychotic episode between 2010 and 2015 had their drug use history compared with 1,237 healthy individuals. The study - which took place in Spain, England, Italy, France, the Netherlands and Brazil - found that nearly 29.5% of the patients had a habit of smoking cannabis daily, compared to 6.8% in the healthy group. More than a fifth of the psychosis cases were believed to be linked to daily use of cannabis across the 11 test sites, according to the The Lancet, which published the report. Dr Marta Di Forti, from King’s College London, who headed the research, said her findings were consistent with previous studies showing that the use of cannabis with high levels of THC has more harmful effects on mental health than the use of weaker forms. So-called ‘skunk’, which has THC levels as high as 14%, worryingly accounts for around 94% of drugs being sold on the streets of London.

March 27th - April 9th 2019

Pip is hip THE healthiest part of an avocado might actually be the seed, researchers have revealed. According to a study by Penn State University, the pip can assist with reducing inflammation and could be used as a food ingredient or even be turned into a pharmaceutical drug. The research, scientists insisted, is still in its early stages and some studies also suggest the pip can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. It comes after a 2013 study by the same university found that Aztecs and Mayans would eat avocado seeds by boiling and heating them to treat a range of diseases, including diabetes, stomach problems and parasitic infections.

Ronaldo expands business empire to include hair transplant clinic in Spain CRISTIANO Ronaldo has opened a hair transplant clinic in Spain. The former Real Madrid ace, 34, opened the Isparya centre in Madrid last week with girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez in tow. The current Juventus striker said he opened the clinic because ‘image’ is important to him and he wants to make sure other people ‘have more control over the way they look’. "Alopecia is a very big problem in Europe and around the world and we want to help people improve their self-esteem and not be ashamed to

Prediction SOME 115,100 people will die from cancer this year in Spain, a leading medical body has predicted. According to the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM), lung cancer will be the most fatal can-

cer for men with around 17,300 deaths. While lung cancer rates are increasing among women mostly due to smoking - the biggest killer will be breast cancer with 6,300 deaths.

10 years younger

Bald move

HAIR RAISING: Ronaldo outside new clinic

come to us," the star said. "Everyone likes to take care of their image and I am a very clear example of this, and that is why when Paulo (Ramos, CEO of the group) told me about this project I immediately realised that it was something unique." He added: “This project is going to be a success, as we want to help the Spaniards and the Spanish economy." Insparya group own 10

clinics in Portugal and have made about 35,000 transplants, as their treatments last about six hours and cost between 4,000 and 7,000 euros. When asked if he had undergone the transplant himself, Ronaldo said: “When I think it’s necessary [to have a transplant], of course I’ll do it.” The clinic, which is 50% owned by Ronaldo, also performs eyebrow hair transplants.

PEOPLE in Spain don’t suffer from age related health problems until they reach 75, a new study has claimed. That’s a full 10 years later than the global average of 65. A study, published in The Lancet, analysed the rate at which people across 195 countries developed age-related diseases ANDALUCIA is short of nurses - including 13 and physiotherapists, the Spanicardiovascular sh Trade Union of Nursing Prodiseases, 35 fessionals has warned. cancers and six A country-wide study, the Union respiratory difound that Spain is below the seases. European average of 8.8 nurses Those living in per every 1,000 inhabitants, and the UK won’t in Andalucia 34,593 extra public experience the and private nurses would be neeproblems of a ded to reach Europe-wide stan65-year-old undards. til they reach To meet the shortfall in public the age of 70. hospitals in Japan and Andalucia, Switzerland the governtopped the list ment would with residents have to hire there not ex23,199 propecting to exfessionals, perience such including health issues 4,095 priuntil they are mary care 76.1. nurses, the Union added.

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Boot camp

“It’s 08.00 hours, rise and shine soldier, these pots won’t wash themselves!” I yell into the new recruit’s bedroom. My son opens one eye, looks at me, sighs, turns over and pulls the duvet up over his ears. “Can’t you stay at home mum and let dad take me to boot camp, you’re beyond embarrassing” he mumbles from underneath the bedding. “What, and miss your grand entrance into independence? Not on your Nelly,” I reply with a sardonic smile. Gingerly retracing my steps over the mountain of dirty clothes strewn across the floor,

New wife in the sun

I wouldn’t mind a Commando to help out with discipline around the house, writes Paula Leskovitz

I noisily close the bedroom door behind me and try and ignore the ‘where’s my socks/ hoody/trainers!’ dialogue that follows me around the apartment for the next hour. Once said items have been located (stuffed in the bottom of the wardrobe as usual) the whole family including Brian ‘the brave’ pile into the jeep and head up towards the Alhaurin mountains. The temperature gauge at 9.30am is already heading into the 30s as the summer sunshine beats relentlessly onto the singed Spanish countryside. Boy child brushes his hands over his newly shaven locks and stares out of the window. Brian attempts to consume an old Twix wrapper and my husband hangs one lanky tanned arm out of the window while its white twin hangs COMPANION: PAULA’s dog Brian

forlornly inside the moving really hot, get your leg away vehicle. from me it’s too hot’. “I still can’t get used to the Of course I hold the ‘I’m WAY fact that the theatre closes hotter than you’ card, being down for over two months in age 51 and attached permathe summer,” the older of the nently to what appears to be males says to no one in par- an internal furnace with a ticular. broken thermostat. I nod my head in agreement. After 17 wrong turns we finaOnly three months into the lly arrive at the camp meeting position of lighpoint and a ting technician young lad on a and already he After 17 wrong push bike leads has two monthe way up to turns we finally the area which ths off. Mentally I is going to be arrive at the compile a list home to my son of things that for the next five camp meeting need repairing days. point around the flat, “You can drop and that list inme off here,” creases steadiboy child mumly by the day. bles and makes a hasty exit Unfortunately the only room from the confines of the stiin our humble abode that cu- fling car. rrently has any air conditio- Half a dozen teens are loitening is the lounge so it’s akin ring around a large green tent to entering the Sahara desert listening intently while a man when you have to leave the dressed in khaki shouts out comfort of the chilled room orders. and make your way begrud- Spotting his latest recruit amgingly to bed. bling towards the camp the The first few hours of attemp- Commando yells out towards ting sleep is usually spent on my son, “You look tired boy, top of the sheets, mumbling ‘it’s too hot, are you hot? I’m

BOOT CAMP: Paula’s son falls into line no doubt up to god knows what time on the Xbox, well there’s none of that computerised crap here, pick a bunk and fall into line.” My son, who never does what he’s told without argument, breaks into a sprint, drops his bag onto an empty mattress, puts his shoulders back and joins the other inmates without complaint. “I’m getting one of those for home,” I mumble to my slackjawed husband, pointing at the confident man barking orders at the motley assortment standing before him. After waving our goodbyes we head back to civilisation in the car and I decide to broach the subject of selling our four-wheel drive and replacing it with a couple of scooters.

“You can have a scooter, I’m having a 125,” my spouse harrumphs, then proceeds to make motorbike noises all the way back to civilisation. I shake my head at the man beside me and smile to myself. It’s been a rollercoaster of a journey. In the four months we have been living in the Costa del Sol we have bought a property, got our son into school, submitted the mountains of paperwork to enable us to get healthcare and rescued our faithful hound from an attack of the Zombie Pussies. Staring out the window, an idea begins to form. What if I was to write all about our relocation, would anyone actually read about the adventures of a new wife in the sun?

Obliterate San Pedro!

OSP may not be a political party, writes Giles Brown, who has slowly watched the decline of San Pedro

Mix Media Group, home of Radio Mix 106, is looking for a Sales Manager for their audio/ visual productions department based in Manilva, Malaga. The successful candidate will be responsible for building and maintaining a client base for the Group’s audio/visual productions, podcasts, and services. We are looking for an experienced Sales Manager who can operate as a positive, pro-active team member, bringing energy, harmony and focus to the business, and make a positive contribution to the team. A background in media sales is an advantage but not essential as full training will be given. A knowledge of CRM systems is essential. Attractive basic salary plus commission on offer to the right applicant. Send your CV to studio@radiomix106.com Tel: (+34) 856 830 003 | studio@radiomix106.com www.radiomix106.com | @mix106fm

IF you are a regular reader of my column, you will know that I have a problem with San Pedro de Alcantara. Before you all rush to form a mob and force me away with burning torches shouting, ‘kill the monster!’, I hasten to add that I have nothing against the good people themselves. When I was living in Marbella in the 80s, the town gave me one of the funniest nightclub moments of the decade – and there were several, trust me. Heading home after yet another late night/early morning in Marbella’s Puerto Deportivo, a group of us decided that we needed a nightcap in San P. The only place that was open was the Ruj nightclub, next to the old bus station. We must have all been fairly plastered because the Ruj was the sort of place that a bunch of big-haired, big shoulder-padded guiris (it was the 80s) was not welcome. Luckily we had Brenty with us, our half-Australian mate who was considerably larger than the crowd of diminutive Andalucians who turned to look at us as we walked in. “Play it cool, drink your drinks and don’t do anything to draw attention to yourself,” were Brenty’s instructions. All was going well and we were starting to think that we might get away with this when Madonna’s ‘La Isla Bonita’ came on the sound system. Suddenly the dance floor was full, and a hundred

Andalucian voices belted out the first line in unison “Lasz nigh eye dreem of San Pedrooooo”. It was all too much for us. I’m sure that Brenty actually spat his drink out, he was laughing that hard, but all was lost in a blur of hair gel, diamante brooches and felt boots as we got the hell out of Dodge, followed by the mulleted Spanish hurling insults. But whatever damage they wanted to visit upon us that evening, it was nothing compared to the damage that the current OSP party has done to the town. The ‘visionaries’ that run the place have gone on a remodelling rampage that has seen large swathes of the town pedestrianised. But with cheap parking no longer around, the shops have seen a drop off in trade, historic palm trees and sculptures that heralded the main street have been uprooted and moved elsewhere and, sadly, a ‘modernisation’ of the Church Square has provided wavy sunshades that offer no protection and ugly LED lights that shine blue at night. The last time I saw this amount of ugly urban architecture was in UK town centres when I was editing a property publication, and at least they had the excuse that the Luftwaffe had previously flattened them. Looking at the damage the powers that be have wrought on the town, I have to conclude that OSP really does stand for Obliterate San Pedro!

RAMPAGE: Giles Brown says the OSP have destroyed San Pedro during his time in Spain Across: 8 Ukraine, 9 Tiara, 10 Uncle, 11 Unaware, 12 Bass drum, 15 John, 17 Atop, 18 Feminist, 21 Bottles, 23 Knife, 25 Sight, 26 Benefit.

Vacancy - SaleS Manager

Down: 1 Suburb, 2 Croc, 3 Limeade, 4 Menu, 5 Steam, 6 Macaroni, 7 Cave in, 13 Shortage, 14 Use, 16 Sinking, 17 Ambush, 19 Treaty, 20 Slate, 22 Sobs, 24 Info.

SPORT

Back in the Padel MARBELLA has hosted the first tournament of the World Padel Tour 2019, which saw an Argentinian duo triumph in the men’s doubles. Around 3,000 spectators watched the final of the Cervezas Victoria Marbella Master, which took place in the Complejo Deportivo Fuente Nueva in San Pedro de Alcantara, near Marbella. Argentinian duo Carlos Gutierrez and Maxi Sanchez beat Spaniards Fransisco Navarro and Juan Lebron in two sets to take the title. The women’s title was taken by Spanish duo Marta Marrero and Marta Ortega, who won in three sets. Padel tennis was created in Mexico in 1969 and is popular amongst Spanish speaking countries - nine of the top 10 ranked men’s padel players are Spanish-speaking, whereas all top 10 ranked women’s players are Spanish.

TRIUMPH: Argentians

March 27th - April 9th 2019

A BRITISH expat has been reunited with his signed football shirt in a chance pub encounter, 20 years after putting it up for auction. Pete Carter, 50, recently rediscovered the well travelled Crystal Palace strip in an irish pub in Coin after dropping in to watch Palace games The lifelong Palace fan had raffled off the shirt in the 1990s to raise money after the club went into administration.

Well-travelled

A shocked Carter, who moved to Spain in 2003, told the Olive Press: “ I last saw the shirt when I handed it over to whoever won it on that night back in ‘99 and now it’s found its way to the bar that I drink in fifteen hundred miles away, 20 years later.” Carter helped organise the

It’s Coming Home

Brit expat discovers his old football shirt 1,500 miles away in Spain

fundraising event in 1999, entering the signed shirt as a raffle prize to help raise money for club staff who had been made redundant. The night, held at the Fairfields Hall in Croydon, made more than €23,000 and featured stand up comedy acts from the likes of Jo Brand, Eddie A WOMEN’S football match watched by Izzard and 60,700 people has broken the 99-year Phil Jupitus. world record for the largest crowd ever for The owner two female clubs. of the MoThe record-breaking event saw Atletico lly Malone Madrid lose 2-0 to Barcelona at the Wanda pub in Coin, Metropolitano Stadium in the quarterfinals Mike Fitzgeof the Copa de la Reina. rald had been Not since 1920 have so many people watholding the ched a woman’s club match, when Dick, Ketop in storarr’s Ladies and St. Helen’s Ladies played at ge along with Goodison Park in Liverpool on Boxing Day. some other The largest ever turnout for any female sports mematch was a 1999 World Cup game bemorabilia. tween the US and China, watched by 90,185 Fitzgerald people. only brought the shirt

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REUNITED: Pete (left) down to show Carter after the two discussed the idea of having creating a ‘wall’ of football shirts for the pub. The english language teacher said: “I was sitting at the bar and has soon as he came down the steps of the storeroom, I said ‘that's my shirt.’ “I can’t explain it, it's one of those weird things."

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‘Robin Hood’ figure surprises villagers by giving away €1000 in blank envelopes

Ham-fisted

FINAL WORDS

TWO men held up a Caja Rural del Sur bank in Malaga with a jamon knife, managing to avail themselves of more than €3,000.

VILLAGERS in northern Spain are ‘bewildered’ after a mysterious figure slid envelopes of cash under their doors at night. The 800 residents of Villarramiel, in Castile and Leon, have been left scrat-

Sounds good THE MTV music awards will be held in Sevilla on November 3 it has been revealed, in Spain’s fourth time hosting the awards.

Droning on MARBELLA has announced a ‘Survival Digital Experience’ event from April 5 to 7 including VR lessons, a robotics workshop and even ‘drone school’.

Loving care FUTURE stars of Love Island, the hit reality show filmed in Spain, are set to be offered therapy, its makers have confirmed. It comes after former contestant Mike Thalassitis (right) was found dead having committing suicide. TV network

ITV is set to offer the therapy to help participants deal with fame, social media and managing their finances after the show ends. Thalassitis became the second Love Island contestant to die, after Sophie Gradon, who appeared in 2016, was found dead in June.

Special deliveries ching their heads over the magical offerings. Around 20 seemingly unconnected people have been gifted up to €70 each, with around €1000 in total so far being handed out. “We’re all bewildered as we don’t know where this money comes from or who the benefactor is,” said mayor Nuria Simon.

CRIME

The recipients include a widow living with her son, couples with small children, elderly couples and middle-aged couples without kids. Some benefiting from the surprise cash received messages, including one that

A BRITISH expat has made history by creating Spain’s first ‘Sunday roast tapa’. Angela McGinnis, 42, from Airdrie, in Scotland, is the creator of the dish, which she invented at her bar Wobbly’s, in Puerto de la Duquesa. The recipe sees a Yorkshire pudding topped with carrots, stuffing, mashed potato and beef, served with peas and gravy. “I love a Sunday roast,” she told the Olive Press. “So when I was creating the new menu I thought, ‘I’ll turn it into a tapa’.”

Holy phallus! GIFT: Surprise cash

was addressed to the ‘princess’ of the household. Some neighbours also received money in their letter boxes and one in a bicycle basket. While two residents have reported the charity spate to the police, there is not thought to be any reason to investigate.

PROTESTERS have slammed a new play entitled God has a vagina. A group of Catholics prayed with rosary beads outside the Matadero centre in Madrid as the show was being performed. The production by the theater collective Vertebro features actors performing naked in reenactments of religious and cultural traditions.