Olive Press Costa Blanca - Issue 46 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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Vol. 2 Issue 46 www.theolivepress.es December 23rd - January 13th 2021

...and in your Olive Press stocking this year don’t miss:

Stunning, but was it worth €1.2 billion?

The Spanish chefs with new ‘green’ stars

See page 3

Festive check before the revelry begins

See page 18

See page 22

Russian mob exposed Mafia corruption probe ends in dozens of arrests of police and politicians in Valencia

END TO A RUFF YEAR: At a huge cost

CORRUPT cops and politicians are among two dozen arrested in a major operation against the Russian mafia in Valencia. Several police officers and two local Partido Popular (PP) politicians were among the 23 cuffed in what has been described as the biggest sting against the Russian mob ‘for a decade’. Operation Testudo focused on the money laundering gang that mostly worked in the Marina Baixa area. A series of 18 raids led to arrests in Valencia City, Altea and Finestrat, while gang members were also rounded up in Alicante, Ibiza and Madrid. The investigation was launched in 2013, alongside Europol, after a tip off that a series of shady Russian

businessmen were influencing politicians to land lucrative real estate deals. The gang is said to have created shell-companies as a front for laundering money out of Spain to be used for international crimes include murder, drug-trafficking, human-trafficking, and extortion. Among those arrested were PP councillor for Benidorm, Lorenzo Martinez, and former PP president in Altea, Jaime Selles. They have been charged with ‘peddling influence’ alongside an Altea council official who was also detained. Alarmingly, two Guardia Civil officers and a Policia National detective were also arrested in the raids. The operation apJávea / Altea pears to have been run by a Russian yorkshirelinencostablanca.com solicitor, under the cover of being an Altea real estate agency. The 38-year-old was said to have See page 24 ‘extensive local contacts’ and was seeking to build a luxury motorhome park in the area.

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By Alex Trelinski

A Ukrainian IT expert, based in the San Juan area of Alicante, was also visited in the police raids. The so-called ‘hacker’ was previously arrested in 2018 for being the mastermind behind a gang of cyber thieves who stole over one billion US dollars from banks around the world. “The organisation planned to control key sectors of the Spanish economy and infiltrate state institutions, counting on lawyers, officials, politicians, businessmen and hackers,” said a police spokesman.

Luxury

“Profits from these criminal activities were invested in Spain in various businesses, mainly in leisure, hospitality and the real estate sector,” he added. He added the ‘main purpose’ of the criminal organisation was to ‘take over the nightlife and catering sector’, both on Spain’s eastern coast and in the Balearic Islands. The house raids netted 16 luxury cars, €300,000 in cash, virtual wallets with crypto currencies, diamonds, and an array of firearms. Numerous bank accounts and property assets worth millions of euros have also been blocked. Opinion Page 6

Festive plans wrecked

THOUSANDS of expats have had their Christmas plans ruined as Spain closed its borders to tourists from the UK. Spanish officials had called for an EU-wide response to the news that a virulent new strain – said to be 70% more contagious – was spreading through the South East of England. Spain has now decided to follow the lead of other European countries in restricting travel from the UK. The good news is that Spanish citizens and residents of the country will still be allowed to visit. It does not, however, help those expats who were gearing up for a visit from relatives. It comes as Gibraltar confirmed that it is the fifth country outside the UK to identify a case of the new mutated virus. Over a dozen countries - including Germany, France, Sweden and Denmark - have suspended flights from the UK.

CRIME

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NEWS IN BRIEF Bonus BENIDORM council will give nearly 3,000 needy families a special pre-paid card worth €200 to spend on items in local shops until mid-January

Possibility A feasibility study has been commissioned over a possible extension of Alicante’s tram network to the urban centres of Sant Joan and Mutxamel.

Beach plan APPROVAL is set to be given early in 2021 for three breakwaters to be built to stop the serious erosion of Denia’s Les Deveses beach.

Bold as brass

A TERROR gang that robbed homes on the Costa Blanca while residents were inside has been dismantled. The robbers broke into dozens of homes around the Javea area by smashing door locks before stealing items, often with the tenants at home. The alleged 42-year-old Spanish ringleader was denied bail by a Denia court while an alleged accomplice, also aged 42, was released ahead of trial. The arrests came at the end of operation ‘Toxu 2020’, which began in September after the Guardia Civil received a

stream of home robbery reports. The gang pilfered goods that were then pawned off to second-hand stores in Denia and Gandia, as well as further away in Elche. Police stepped up patrols in the most targeted areas and caught one of the thieves when he attempted to flee

A BRITISH expat has been arrested for the third time for running an indoor marijuana farm on the Costa Blanca. The Guardia Civil in Jijona said that the Brit, 36, operated out of a villa in Aigues and that his

previous arrest was just four months ago. An appearance before a San Vicente del Raspeig court saw the Brit remanded into custody. He has been charged with crimes against public health, belonging to a criminal group, and for the

Life savers AN off duty nurse and Guardia Civil officer saved the life of a 70-year-old American Denia resident who suffered a stroke at a restaurant.

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

By Alex Trelinski

Terror gang that robbed people at home has been shut down

from his vehicle. A number-plate check revealed the vehicle - which was full of stolen items - belonged to a well-known local criminal. Officers soon located other stolen items at a lock up near the suspect’s home. Several televisions as well as a large number of tools,

Spliffin’ heck! illegal use of electricity. Some 304 marijuana plants were seized from the villa’s basement, with some of the crop ready to be harvested. According to police, plans were afoot for a large expansion of the indoor farm with extra equipment set to be installed. His last arrest was in July in El Campello on identical charges. The previous operation saw 67 grams of marijuana seeds seized along with €11,275 in a cardboard box and a car.

phones, radiators, a scooter, and an electric bicycle were among the recovered goods. The cheeky thieves had even managed to steal a Guardia Civil cap in one of over 20 robberies. A fresh set of checkpoints were set up and the ringleader was arrested after he was stopped in his car. Guardia Civil are also still looking for a third female member of the group.

Sticky end AN Eastern European gang which marked the front doors of suitable homes to rob across the Costa Blanca with ‘stringed glue’ has been brought down. Seven Georgian nationals are accused of at least 15 thefts after being arrested by the Policia Nacional in Alicante City. Three addresses were searched by officers as well as a jewellery shop that was used to sell stolen items. Gold and jewellery pawn shops were also inspected in the Policia Nacional sweep. The East European crew travelled around the region to commit their burglaries in what was described as a ‘highly organised and structured’ gang.

Knifeman sex attacks COPS have arrested a 20-year-old man after two women were sexually assaulted at knife-point just 30 minutes apart. In the vicious attacks one woman was stabbed, while another is understood to have been raped. The first attack involved a woman, 23, who was cornered by the knife-wielding Moroccan as she was about to enter her Alicante home at 5.30am.

Vicious

He forced her to take her clothes off before sexually assaulting her and stealing her mobile phone. The victim called the police and as officers arrived to help her a second incident was reported. A passer-by phoned authorities to say that a woman was inside a car and shouting for help. The 52-year-old Spanish victim had also been sexually assaulted and threatened with being stabbed. Police launched a major sweep of Alicante to track down the attacker with a man arrested at around 11am and remanded in custody.

It’s fair

t o say that 2020 has been one of the most challenging years in recent memory. We at Telitec are proud to have played our part in keeping workers at home connected, children connected with their schooling, and above all else keeping friends and family connected during this very difficult year. It’s even clearer to us now how much people need and value a fast and reliable internet connection. 2021 will see our biggest deployment of fibre 600 connecting even more people in the community. On behalf of everyone at Telitec we wish you and your family a healthy and Happy Christmas and together we hope we can make 2021 a much better year for all.

Tel: 965 743 473 sales@telitec.net www.telitec.com

H A P P Y CHRISTMAS from us all at Telitec

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NEWS

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STILL TOP: Quique Dacosta

HOLY SITE: Antonio and Maria paid their respects

Holy visit MALAGA heart throb Antonio Banderas has been busy filming a new show for Amazon Prime, together with journalist Maria Casado. They took a break from filming to visit one of his passions - the Cofradia de la Esperanza de Malaga brotherhood, which dates back to 1641. Banderas often joins the brotherhood on their famous Easter processions parades to carry the statue of Mary that they take their name after. This time he brought colleague Maria to view the impressive figure on the festival day of the Esperanza de Malaga.

New stars are born, and only one lost, as the celebrated Michelin foody bible reveals its picks for 2021 IT must have been one of the hardest years in the food bible’s hundred-year history. But somehow the Michelin guide - which launched in 1910 in Spain - has managed to wheedle out a few new stars for the country in 2021. A total of 22 new winners were selected for the guide this year, with a pair in Catalunya and one in Galicia being the highlight. While no new three-star restaurants emerged, for the first time in five years, Cinc Sentits, in Barcelona, Bo.Tic, in Girona, and Culler de Pau, in O Grove, all grabbed a brace. Meanwhile, the leading Va-

Star power By Jon Clarke and James Warren

lencian restaurants maintained their star status, with Quique Dacosta, in Denia, keeping all his three stars. In total, only one restaurant in Spain lost a star (Albora, in Madrid), as the inspectors were told to be fair given the myriad of issues with COVID-19 this year. Chef Benito Gomez, of Bardal, in Ronda, which has two stars, was extremely grateful for this, having been forced to close in March and not opening all year. “It’s been a nightmare year, very tricky and so it’s great the inspectors have been lenient,” he told the Olive Press.

Quality

Royal greetings SPAIN’s royal family have released a Christmas card with an optimistic outlook for the New Year. Princesses Sofia and Leonor have been captured smiling in casual but chic outfits in Pravia, in Asturias. Wearing a khaki gilet and houndstooth coat the princesses look cheerful in front of the Spanish countryside. The decision to include only the princesses in the card is an unusual one, as recipients traditionally expect festive well wishes from Queen Letizia and King Felipe too.

Ace pad

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

The winners, announced at the much delayed online ceremony at the Royal Casa de Correos in Madrid, included a record 19 new one-Michelin starred joints. Meanwhile there were 53 new Bib Gourmands - or restaurants that have great quality to price ratios. Meanwhile there were new stars in Alicante and in Murcia making up a total of 203 starred eateries. Odisea in Murcia gained a star with its chef Nazario Cano, while Beaza & Rufete, in Alicante, and La Salita, in Valencia, also got a star. A new category was introduced this year to celebrate sustainability.

DOUBLE DELIGHT: Jordi Artal (Cinc Sentits), Albert Sastregener (Bo.TiC) and Javier Olleros (Culler de Pau)

OLIVE PRESS OPINION

Names to trust

The chefs behind the 21 new Michelin ‘Green Stars’ are among the true heroes of Spain. This select, forward-thinking group have been championing sustainability in the catering industry for, in some cases, over a decade. The Olive Press first came across Angel León in 2009 before he won his first Michelin star at legendary Aponiente, which now has three. Back then, in a small backstreet joint, in the heart of el Puerto de Santa Maria, in Cadiz, he was only listing rare and unfashionable types of fish on his menu. Boycotting cod and tuna, he used almost all local ingredients and even gave a lecture series on sustainability to Cadiz university. Way before his time, Spain has been far too slow to wake up to the risks of overfishing. Now, he is finally being recognised for his zeal and passion for the environment. As is rightly Ricard Camarena, born and bred in Valencia, who has long campaigned for the use of local ‘Kilometre 0’ produce, that doesn’t involve air miles. Chefs like he and Eneko Atxa at Azurmendi, in Bilbao, and Diego Gallegos, at Sollo, in Fuengirola, are leading the vanguard towards a brighter future for sustainability in Spain. Called the Estrella Verde, or Green star, it went to 21 restaurants around Spain,

NOVAK Djokovic has officially settled in Marbella after splashing more than €10 million on a secluded luxury villa. The tennis World No.1 has already moved into the property with wife Jelena Ristic (pictured together) and their two children Stefan and Tara, aged six and three respectively. The family had spent Spain’s nationwide coronavirus lockdown of March and April in the mansion, which sits in the exclusive Sierra Blanca urbanisation. Just a five-minute drive from Marbella centre.

including one in Valencia for Ricard Camarena (see sidebar right).

Green award for top Valencia joint A VALENCIA restaurant has scooped a prestigious new environmental gong in the annual Michelin awards. Ricard Camarena (top), has been handed a so-called ‘Green star’, or Estrella verde, in the latest innovation from the celebrated food bible. The restaurant, bossed by the culinary genius, 45, has also maintained its two stars in the new rankings. Camarena, from Barx, has long championed the Slow Food movement and is very careful where he sources ingredients. “I’m very proud because the unfashionable journey we began many years ago has finally paid off,” he said. “While using local produce under the ‘kilometre 0’ idea is relatively easy today, when we began it cost much more. But we did it anyway.” He was joined by 20 other restaurants around Spain to be recognised for their sustainability. They included Aponiente, in el Puerto de Santa Maria, Cadiz, where three-Michelin star chef Angel León (below) has long campaigned against overfishing and doesn’t use endangered fish, such as cod and tuna. “We know we are not going to change the world, but we try hard to share our sustainable practices with as many people as we can,” he said.

NEWS

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Bottom shelf

Light saving LED lights, which will be installed at Benidorm’s Avenida Beniarda car park, will cut electricity costs by €3,500 per year.

Masking up ALICANTE council will spend €564,000 to buy five million masks to hand out to workers and residents

Flood work EL CAMPELLO’S Calle Morros Alts area should suffer less flooding in the future after recent improvement work to rainwater drains costing €32,000.

Cash offer ALTEA shoppers who spend over €30 in any local store through till January 7 can enter a free draw to win one of six vouchers worth €150.

Reporters Simon Wade and Alex Trelinski

Your reporters, here to help on the Costa Blanca

Contact them with any stories or news on 951 273 575 or email newsdesk@ theolivepress.es (Personal contacts on page 6)

By Dilip Kuner

EXPATS in Spain have been left in Brexit limbo after the crucial deadline for a trade deal between the UK and EU was missed. Despite negotiators inching towards an agreement, Sunday’s deadline passed with France sticking to its ‘red lines’ over fishing rights in British waters. However, as the clock ticks towards the UK’s departure from the EU on January 1, there still remains hope that continuing negotiations could avoid a no-deal Brexit. One of the main concerns for negotiators - and the vast majority of British expats in

A SPANISH sommelier has created a vino to hit back at wine snobs who only value bottles on a scale of one to 100. Enrique Lopez, from Malaga, has created his Cero (Zero) Puntos Parker brand in a direct snub to global wine guru Robert Parker, an American lawyer, who invented the 100 scale for wines. His bottle from Cigales, near Valladolid, is made from 100% Tempranillo grapes and has been selling like hot cakes.

December 23rd - January 13th 2021 Its label is simple and to the point: ‘On the nose: it smells of wine. In the mouth: it tastes very very good. That’s it.’ The wine, the label of which features a group of friends at a party, is 14.5% in strength, and getting rave reviews in Spain, at least. It is not known yet what Parker’s Wine Advocate magazine and website will give it. Put simply by Lopez: “You don’t have to be a connoisseur to enjoy something that is simply very good.”

Down to the wire Critical Brexit deadline missed and hope for a deal remains balanced on a knife edge

Spain - is that all 27 EU nations must agree to the deal... and France has the right to veto it. The EU Council of Ministers had given midnight on Sun-

day as the cut off point if they were to have time to ratify the deal in the EU parliament before the end of the year. Unless a spectacular breakthrough is made, Britain will

Right to die SPAIN has moved a step closer to passing a historic bill to allow medically-assisted suicide. A new law allowing long-suffering patients to take lethal drugs, was backed by several parties including Spain's left-wing coalition government. The bill passed by 198 votes to 138 against, with only the PP party and Vox opposing it.

Spain is only the eighth country globally to pass such a law, the fourth country in Europe. Once it becomes law, patients will be able to request the right to die, as long as they make four specific requests, the first two in writing over a period of two weeks. The procedure must be overseen by a medical team led by a

Hair raising A VILLAGE in south-west Spain is reeling after a severe outbreak of COVID-19 has been linked to a barber's trip to Turkey for hair transplant treatment. The municipality of Calamonte, 60km east of the city of Badajoz, Extremadura, has seen 29 of its 6,000 residents test positive for COVID-19 this month. The outbreak has caused the school to close to pupils, and numerous businesses to shut their doors. Heath authorities have begun investigating the outbreak, and have linked the spike in cases to a 36-year-old barber in the village. Manuel Parada, organised a three-day trip to Turkey, with 17 of his clients to undergo hair transplant treatment earlier this month. Since returning, Parada, and 14 of his clients have tested positive, leading to mass testing among 250 close contacts.

physician and an independent doctor, and the patient must be of sound mind at the time of the requests. Regional governing boards will examine the requests and ultimately grant permission. The bill will also allow any doctor to refuse to perform the procedure on the grounds of belief. “As a society, we cannot remain impassive when faced with the intolerable pain that many people suffer,” said Spain’s Health Minister Salvador Illa. Assisted suicide is also legal in Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Luxumbeurg, Canada, Columbia, New Zealand and certain US states. Portugal passed a similar bill back in February to legalise euthanasia, however they are yet to become laws. The bill will now pass to the Senate, where it will go to the vote with legal experts expecting it to pass without resistance. The ruling has gained widespread support across the country.

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fall under World Trade Organisation rules, with a range of tariffs being imposed, in just over a week’s time. Despite the critical deadline being missed, chief UK negotiator, David Frost, and his EU counterpart, Michel Barnier, continued talks on Monday . to a deal that is in line with the fundamental principles we brought into the negotiations.” UK health secretary, Matt Hancock claimed that ‘unreasonable demands’ from the EU over fishing rights had thrown a roadblock across negotiations. However, he remained hopeful that a deal could be reached by Christmas.

Deal

He said: “I’m sure that a deal can be done, but obviously it needs movement on the EU side.” If a deal is agreed in the next few days then there remains the possibility of it being ‘provisionally applied’ from January 1 until the EU parliament can meet later in the month. UK ministers meanwhile, have firmly ruled out extending the Brexit process into 2021. It comes after a group of MPs from all parties, plus London Mayor Sadiq Khan, had called for the Brexit transition period to be extended due to the pandemic and slow progress on negotiations.

Christmas clampdown coming

PLANS to loosen restrictions over the festive period have been scrapped across the Valencia region due to a spike in new COVID-19 cases. The midnight curfew has been brought forward to 11pm, except for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, while new rules mean only six people can meet at home or in public. The Valencian Community border will also remain closed until January 15, with the pre-existing exceptions remaining in place. That includes people going to their home in the area, visiting sick relatives, or travelling to work. “The health of residents must take priority and I am sorry that we have been forced to make these changes,” said Valencian president Ximo Puig. The new restrictions mean that bars and restaurants can only serve until 10pm, apart from on December 24 and 31, when they get an additional hour.

Party patrol A NEW police task force will be dedicated to stopping illegal house parties over the festive period, as well as preventing outsiders from entering the Valencia region. The Guardia Civil will carry out higher levels of surveillance around the region’s rural areas to detect the preparation of any festive events. The measure is part of a new drive to enforce rules to stop the spread of the coronavirus in what is now one of the most infectious regions in Spain. Some 10,000 officers from the National and Local Police are being deployed to ensure that measures are being respected. Meanwhile, the Guardia Civil will monitor the Valencian border - which is now closed until the New Year - in three daily shifts. Extra officers and new checkpoints have been put in place on roads into the region from Murcia, Catalunya, Aragon and Castilla-La Mancha. The government says 6,000 officers have been placed on border patrols.

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December 23rd - January 13th 2021

NEWS FEATURE

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OPINION No Christmas fantasy TRUTH can be stranger than fiction. Take the downfall of a Russian-run Valencia-based mafia operation with multiple arrests including local politicians past and present. The fact that the Policia Nacional have worked since 2013 to expose the gang says a lot about how far it had 'got into every aspect of Spanish society'...the very words of a police statement! It's said to be the biggest mafia ‘take down’ in Spain for a decade. All the elements of a novel or a big TV series are here. There's the alleged 'kingpin' of a Russian solicitor who also runs a real estate business. The Russian was a member and financial backer of the Partido Popular who showered local politicians and police with gifts. The mix gets juicier with an Alicante-based Ukrainian described as the world's 'biggest-ever' crypto-currency thief, who was arrested in 2018 for stealing €200 million from banks around the world. Chuck in bribes, gun-running, dodgy land deals, and international money laundering, and there's a basis here for a full Netflix series. In fact Spain's excellent international hit, La Casa de Papel might struggle to keep up with this lot. You can't make this up and we certainly didn't!

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AWARDS

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2012 - 2020

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

Mercado de Colón, and HoHoHo! market at the Mercado de Tapinería, plus El Creativo design market at La Escuela de Ruzafa (C/ Denia 32, Ruzafa) from January 2-5. For information on timetables and more, visit www. lovevalencia.com and search ‘Christmas markets’ (available in English) Meanwhile, in Vinaros (Castellon), the local council worked hard to put together a special calendar of events to comply with the health re-

ALICANTE city has a new festive tourist attraction this year with its world-beating tallest-ever nativity scene. It’s become an instant draw for visitors from around the Costa Blanca with a chance to take plenty of photos taking in the giant figurines. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento has an 18-metre high statue of Joseph alongside smaller figurines of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus. The display was created by Jose Manuel Garcia and was verified by Guinness World Records as the new title holder at the start of December. Alicante’s achievement easily beats the old 1991 height record set in Mexico where the figurines of Joseph and Mary were just over five metres tall. It is also now the world’s largest-ever static nativity scene occupying an area of 56.02 square metres.

For further information visit www.vinaros.es.

Slide away

passes are currently only on sale until January 11. Cost of the day passes vary,

depending on the age of the skier, with adults in high season paying €52.

Capital adventure

HY not head to the capital of Madrid, which has a number of special seasonal things to see and do. These include a new Banksy exhibition (pictured right) called The Street is a Canvas, which has just opened at the Circulo de Bellas Artes in Madrid and runs until May 9.

Top of the

strictions while still offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy the festive season. Among this year’s novelties are a synthetic ice rink on the Passeig de Colom that will run until January 6 (with strictly limited numbers), and the televised arrival of the Three Wise Men on Canal 56 from 18.30 hrs on January 5 as an alternative to the usual street parades.

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Kirsty McKenzie kirsty@theolivepress.es

Shop til you drop

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Laurence Dollimore laurence@theolivepress.es

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Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

OR those hoping to hit the pistes this festive season, prayers were answered when the Sierra Nevada finally opened on December 18. Launching with 30kms of runs, it is expected to increase this number to nearly 100kms by the New Year. One of Europe’s friendliest ski stations, it has a fabulous range of places to eat and hotels range from good value hostels, right up to the fourstar Sol Melia. But if you’re hoping to head to the Granada resort, sooner is better than later as, due to coronavirus uncertainty, lift

These include ancient Valencia, Alicante and Elche at your beck and call, as well as the famed beautiful villages of Morella, Peñíscola, Bocairent and many more, each offering a glimpse into Spain’s historic past. Here are a few other ideas for a COVID-friendly Christmas, some close at hand and others a little further away…

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Publisher / Editor

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Not even COVID-19 can stop the yearly Christmas markets in Valencia city. Three of the main ones are up and running from now until January 5, namely the Feria de Artesanía handcraft fair in the Plaza de la Reina, the Mostra de Artesanía at the

Not heading abroad as normal this Christmas? Looking for something to do more locally in Spain? The Olive Press offers up a few seasonal ideas…

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AS the game of brinkmanship continues between the EU and UK over Brexit, we wish both sides would put their petty differences aside and just reach an agreement. The word is that 99% of a trading deal has been agreed. But both sides are intransigent – for stark political reasons – over the remaining ‘loose ends’. The politicians should remember that these talks will have an impact on the lives of millions of people and finally come up with a solution. And sooner rather than later.

T’S been the oddest of years and as the festive season lands upon us, nobody is quite sure who (or how many people) we are allowed to see… or where we can go? Well the good news is you can definitely take a trip around the entire region of Valencia, at least, this Christmas assuming you live here (although make sure to check our website for the very latest in updates). That means you finally have a free reign to visit three wonderful provinces from Alicante in the South to historic Castellon further north. This spectacular region has much to offer in terms of culture and landscape, with everything from soaring mountain scenery and a selection of national and natural parks, to numerous historic towns and cities.

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Get on with it

Feliz navidad

For a very special show full of thrills and spills, the Circo Price Theatre (pictured below) is in the middle of its annual Christmas run. Tickets are still available for what has become one of Madrid’s classic events that runs until

January 10. This year the theatre has been transformed into a giant toy shop, with a storyline of the heroine Cometa trying to solve the mystery of why all the Christmas toys have disappeared. Meanwhile, the world-famous Prado is throwing the spotlight on major works by women from the times of Rosario Weiss (1814-1843) up to those of Elena Brockmann (1867-1946). Also on until March is an exhibition of German expressionism at the Museo Thyssen.

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

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Voted top expat paper in Spain

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HE annual Alicante Christmas Fair is the biggest of its kind on the Costa Blanca and despite COVID-19 restrictions, it’s running once again until January 10. All of the traditional attractions are on offer at the Rabasa fairground site behind the Decathlon store, but with half of the number of rides and stalls compared to previous years. There will also be a strict limit on

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

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Spending Christmas in Spain? These are a few of the customs you need to know about

world

HRISTMAS is celebrated in many parts of the world and each country adds its own festive twists. Spain, for example, likes to display figures of famous people ta-

king a poo and everyone eats 12 grapes at midnight on New Years Eve… oh, and there will rarely be a turkey or sprout in sight. Well not many. Check out these cool local traditions and a few tips - that make Navidad unique.

Scarlet fever

12 lucky grapes Grape guzzling is probably the best known Spanish festive tradition. During the last 12 seconds of the year before the stroke of midnight we attempt to chew or swallow a dozen grapes timed with the dongs of the church clock. It’s not as easy as you think but there’s an imperative to eat the lot in order to guarantee 12 months of good luck in the coming year.

You might not have realised it before but many Spaniards make sure to wear a scarlet pair of pants or knickers on New Year’s Eve as an extra guarantee of joy and good luck. It can also be a bra or socks but it can never be on show. You can stock up at a Chinese store where the rails turn red at this time of year as Asians too believe it’s a lucky New Year colour.

Don’t poo poo big day In Spain a Christmas tree in the plaza is not enough. Most towns also have at least one Belen de Navidad. These scale model nativity scenes are perfect in every detail, from the stable in Bethlehem to the baby Jesus, his parents’ animals, the three kings and shepherds. Despite the religious theme some visitors are shocked by the touches of irreverent humour which may come in the form of a ‘caganer’ - usually one of the shepherds caught with his pants down in the act of defecating. And, on that subject, carganars are huge in Catalunya and every year there is a prize for the best one. Everyone from the Queen to Muhammad Ali has one.

Fun of the fair

CHRISTMAS SHOCKER: President Trump as a ‘caganer’

Festive food

Sing to win

Forget turkey, the Spanish prefer seafood, particularly prawns and lobster, as well as good jamon, and occasionally lamb or roast suckling pig. We also like the more traditional yuletide treats that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s turron, a honey and almond nougat in brittle or chewy versions - either way, tough on teeth; mazapanes, also made with an almond dough moulded into different shapes; polvorones, a crumbly cake that melts in the mouth; and Roscon de reyes, a big circular cake with a hole in it filled with sugared fruit and cream, and the highlight of the family table on Three Kings Day.

Forget Christmas carols and those schmaltzy Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin numbers. In Spain we have our own festive songs known as ‘villancicos’ which are the true soundtrack of Christmas. Some, like ‘Alepun’, ‘Los peces van a beber al rio’ and ‘Pastores venid’ have been sung in the same way for centuries. They may be performed by a children’s choir or adults sitting around a brazier playing traditional instruments like the zambomba (earthenware friction drum), pandereta (tambourine) or improvised with a bottle of anis and a spoon. It’s a tradition on the verge of extinction but it still survives in small towns.

December fools capacity with up to 400 people allowed onto the site at any given time. Health safety will be carefully maintained according to Alonso Carrion, vice-president of the Alicante Fairgrounds Association: “Every seat on the rides will be disinfected after it has been used.” The go-ahead of the Alicante Christmas Fair is a massive boost to the main ride and stall-holders, who have been largely unemployed since the pandemic took hold in March.

December 28 commemorates the biblical King Herod’s plan to slaughter all babies under two years old, hoping the infant Jesus would be among them. Despite its gruesome religious origin, Día de los Inocentes, is the equivalent of April Fools Day. If you hear of any strange news stories on this day, you’d best take them with a very large pinch of salt.

Yule handout It’s a tradition on the verge of extinction but it still survives in small towns - COVID permitting. In the build-up to Christmas, children roam the streets, stopping at every door to sing a villancico in return for some yuletide pocket money known as an aguinaldo.

Olive Press online ‘Spain’s best English news website’

Wills you believe it? British royals smash their way into the top stories on Olive Press website in 2020

HE British royals have gatecrashed a list of the Top 10 stories on the Olive Press website this year. A story about future king Prince William thanking a school for hitting back at Americans who bullied their son George’s love of dancing, made No.8 in the chart. Proving the continued star appeal of the British royal family, the story has been read by over 100,000 visitors so far this year. The heart-warming tale reported how Wills and Kate (above) sent a thank-you letter to the Hurchillo School on the Costa Blanca, after its head wrote to them supporting George’s passion for ballet. Perhaps predictably, all the other top stories of the year were linked to the Coronavirus.

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Proving www.theolivepress.es is now - by far - the most popular English website in Spain, we had over 80,000 views each for all our Top 10 stories. The most read was about tourists cancelling holidays in Mallorca, while the second most viewed was about where airlines were still flying into in the Spring. The only other stories in the Top 25 of the year that did not involve COVID included the shutting of Alicante airport by a snowstorm and a British fugitive who escaped from police by jumping off a Benidorm hotel balcony. Meanwhile 61,000 visitors read our story about how organised squatter gangs were running riot on the Costa del Sol and 62,000 dipped into our tale about an alarming TIE card hold up on the Costa Blanca. All in all, it has been a record year for our website now in its 15th year. A staggering 22 MILLION VISITORS read a total of nearly 40 MILLION PAGES this year so far. Despite introducing a metered paywall in September, the average visitor reads at least two pages and spent well over a minute reading them. Here’s to 2021 and the chance to raise a toast to a better range of top stories.

Here are the www.theolivepress.es Top 10 stories for 2020 season in Mallorca crippled by coronavirus 1-asTourist major events cancelled and scared tourists cancel holidays (129,023 views) Brits can fly to on Ryanair, Easy2- Spain’s airports jet, Jet2 and Tui (125,493) puts country on lockdown confining citizens 3-toSpain their homes - except for these 8 reasons (116,919) memes bringing comic relief to the 4- 10 hilariouscorona outbreak (115,545) We have toilet roll and gin as British holiday5- makers on Costa del Sol are enjoying the lockdown (112,087) del Sol declared special containment area as 6- Costa cases in Andalucia top 100 (106,828) industry won’t reopen until end of the 7- Tourism year as initial plans to lift restrictions are revealed (102,324) Kate and Will thank school on Costa Blanca for 8- support after Prince George was mocked on US TV (100,194) worries as holiday bookings plummet 9- Coronavirus in Spain with 35 now dead (86,433) Madrid residents flee to Costa del Sol, Valencia and 1-Murcia despite advice to stay at home (84, 609)

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er about bar and I WAS intrigued to read in your pap ents as a form paym g estin requ ers own restaurant ed by the panof compensation for their losses caus . demic. Good luck to them no doubt gamIt’s their livelihoods and they haveachievements. I r thei for hard ed work bled and obvious worr y honestly believe that apart from the tive PCR test nega a of about the virus, it’s the cost stry. that is damaging the hospitality indu£120 at Boots is date to seen I’ve pest The chea will return in 72 with no guarantee that the results to pay an extra have ld hours. A family of four wou £480 on top of their holiday cost. ks, then this is If you are going for one or two wee if you are staying quite a lot to ask. It isn’t so bad longer. be targeting the I think business owners should I’ve heard a large as ge char this ut abo government wouldn’t go benumber of people saying that theyTourism in Spain of ent cause of this. If the Departm then I’m sure this reimbursed this cost via a receipt, in. As a SpanSpa to ors visit ct attra to would help e out there and ish-loving Brit, I wouldn’t like to coms boarded up. shop and see the bars, restaurants until ‘we get Good luck to their plight, can’t wait al.’ back to norm Steve Williams, Swansea

UNABLE to have his regular Friday night down the boozer during lockdown, expat Conor Wilde hit on a novel idea for this one - to build his own pub! The Irish expat, 46, got his mates over and converted his garden shed into what he claims is Spain’s smallFORGET THE DRAUGHT: Conor est watering hole. Measuring 2.4m by 2.5m, it counts and pals at makeshift local

on a cornucopia of Emerald Isle collectibles… and it even has Guinness on draught. “After being cooped up like a man in solitary in March I came up with a plan,” the Valencia-based real estate consultant told the Olive Press. “I had an old shed in the garden. I got the lads over – Tuejar, El Gallego & Champ – and we set about

VALENCIA remains open for visitors, with COVID restrictions more relaxed than most other regions, insists tourist chiefs. The city has been praised by businessmen and tourists alike for its

“Life goes on and we must move forward,” insisted Antonio Bernabé, director of the Turismo Valencia Foundation, to the Olive Press, this week. “We have struck a good balance be-

By Eugene Costello

‘sensible’ approach, which has kept the economy running as best as possible.

A bunch of crooks tried to sell my hotel for a song Page 16

THE WORD ON THE STREETS BEST FOOT FORWARD: The Olive Press Valencia team getting the message out around the city this week

Oh la landing Brexit!

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pying an area of 56 square metres. Some local political parties have criticised the cost of the enterprise, including €123,000 for the sculptures. payThere is also the bill of €14,000 for able to Guinness World Records certification. Councillor Manuel Jimenez justified the expense saying: “The visitor numbers justify it and we are seeing business being stimulated by the display.”

Dinner with destiny

SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO: Boris was set for crucial meeting with Von der Leyen last night

CAN’T BEAR IT

row could spell a hit of up to 3% for the economy and up to the same for Spain, the biggest predicted victim in Europe. A final last minute push sawJohnson travelling to Brussels in an attempt to salvage a deal. Von der Leyen confirmed that an EU summit will begin on today (Thursday) to address the disagreements. EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier has been firm that talks will not continue past Wednesday and is ‘very downbeat’ and ‘very gloomy’, according to the Irish government. As Johnson took to Twitter to celebrate the first day of the coronavirus vaccine roll out, Belgium’s president jibed that the jab had been ‘Made in Europe’. See Cash Crash, p17 and No News is Bad News, p22

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AN investigation has been launched after a pair of brown bears were gunned down on a ‘dark day’ for efforts to protect the endangered species. The adult females were shot dead by different hunters, with one claiming to have fired at the bear in self defence. In what has infuriated environmentalists, both animals were killed in conservation zones, in the week a law banning hunting in Spain’s National Parks came into force. The first bear was shot in the Palencia mountains, in Castilla y Leon, by a hunter who claimed he thought the creature was a wild boar. A second bear, named Sarousse, was killed during a

Sarousse was shot by a hunter

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yesterday are administered in the UK reunited with our loved ones, not forgetsuit. lessons that this The news of the vac- ting the very important us.” cine’s imminent ar- terrible pandemic has taught in trials, the rival comes as num- With a 95% effectiveness the vaccine is now due to be supplied via the bers of active cases shrunk to 46 on to the GHA after months of testing. Rock, with only four in hospital. it was NHSfirst citizens to be vaccinated will be The The Gibraltar Government said over-80s group as well as healthcare ‘delighted’ by the approval of the regula- the who look after LIKE most has and theAlicante them buses, staff tor in the UK. bagged two world records I urge vulnerable in the community. “This is excellent news indeed, and Minister oneChief fell swoop. to However, until then,inthe everyone to take up the opportunity guard’. our been let down city has handed people to ‘notThe at the be vaccinated against COVID-19 Chief urgedvirus is still outthe and a vaccine there Guinness World Re“The said earliest possible opportunity,” cord award after building is not a cure,” he said. Minister Fabian Picardo. yourself, to protect tallest and largest nacontinue the 2020 “There is no better way to round off news, “Please, econand our GHAscene in history. your loved ones, ourtivity than with this extremely uplifting The display features a we omy. for which wear a mask where 18-mehave all been “Wash your hands,record-breaking distance a safe tre high statue of Joseph hoping for a you have to and keep alongside a smaller Virgin from others.” long time now. economy resilient Mary and baby Jesus. Crenormally Gibraltar’s vaccine “The sectourism atedto byits Jose Manuel Garcia is the first real has suffered a big blow beats towards tor from COVID-19.its giant statue easily step See page 11 it is exvaccine theold 1991 height record getting back to With the arrival ofthe - Brexit recovery swift set in Mexico. a make to pected normal a more life and being deal permitting. The display is also now the world’s largest-ever static nativity scene occupying an area of 56 square metres. Some local political parties

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The Olive Press Valencia team getting the message out around the city this week A TRADE deal between the EU and Britain is on the verge of being finalised, after EU looked set to cave the By Dilip Kunar Taoiseach Martin An MEP broke ranks in on fishing rights. to say that it looked week we could see said ‘by the end of this likely the French promise He said it would the outlines of a deal’. mise with Boris would have to compro- France in order to get an agreement. come down to Johnson’s demands had UK waters. over back down previously been refusing to will, both in the United Kingdom ‘political clear the on any and I’m Christophe Hansen near-parity to the fishing deal, demanding ropean political will is there from the Eusaid the EU UK’s Union’. have to meet the UK’s demands to would It comes as the governorcoastal waters. EU ambassadors an agreement. "There clinch of the will be compromis- gland warned that a no-deal Bank of En- end that a trade were told over the weekes to be made on deal with Britain Brexit would be more economically is on the that is somewherefisheries. The status quo, COVID damaging than verge of being finalised. They were told the he told an event. we're not going to land,” Andrewto the UK. majority of the 11 Bailey said negotiation main French fishermen signed would create failure to get a deal with fewer issues have ‘joint legal texts are understood to a massive backed the compromise and fewer outstanding have points’. despite losing out trade blockage and damage cross-border The European commission on access to certain goodwill be- sula tween Brussels and von der Leyen, struck president, UrIt came after the fishing grounds. Meanwhile, Ireland the UK for years. EU’s chief negotiator leader Micheal Martin saying: “After difficult weeksa positive note, chel Barnier demanded Miwith very, slow the need to com- said on Monday he was hopeful that a Brex- days progress now we have seen in thevery it deal would be completed better progress, last this week. important files. This more movement on is good.”

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UNABLE to have his regular Friday night down the boozer during lockdown, expat Conor Wilde hit on novel idea for this one - to build a his own pub! The Irish expat, 46, got his mates over and converted his garden shed into what he claims is Spain’s smallFORGET THE DRAUGHT: Conor est watering hole. and pals at makeshift local Measuring 2.4m by 2.5m, it counts

By Eugene Costello

‘sensible’ approach, which has kept the economy running as best as possible.

Palace con

A bunch of crooks tried to sell my hotel for a song

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tween keeping life normal and keeping it safe.” While tourism is down 80% on last year, the tourist boss says all activities, including cinemas and museums, are open. Best of all, unlike much of Spain, locals and tourists must only stay in between midnight and 6am. “It’s a great time to discover the city as there are no queues,” adds Bernabe. “We take the pandemic seriously, but we also believe in the right to have a full life.” Currently few places in the Comunidad face tough restrictions due to high infection rates. The city meanwhile, has developed an activity card called Valencia On, an app anyone can download, not just aimed at tourists.

Run by Visit Valencia it offers a huge range of discounts for museums, events, restaurants, transport and even hotels. You can find it at www. valenciaon.com, and it is completely free. Roland Wareham, 55, a company director from Andalucia, was impressed by how well the city was handling the pandemic. On a business trip from his native Mijas this week, he said: “I was struck by how normal life seemed. In Ruzafa, all the bars and restaurants were open, and the terraces were crowded with families and friends enjoying the al fresco lifestyle. “In Andalucia, meanwhile, bars and restaurants must close by 6pm, and my town is like a ghost town at night. “Valencia should serve as a blueprint for the rest of Spain.” Valencia team getting the message out around the city this week Opinion, page 6 A TRADE deal between the EU and is on the verge of being finalised, Britain Taoiseach Martin said ‘by the end By Dilip Kunar EU looked set to cave in on fishingafter the week we could see the outlines of a of this An MEP broke ranks to say that itrights. He said it would come down to deal’. looked promise in order to get an likely the French would have to comproagreement. will, both in the United Kingdom ‘political France had previously been refusing and I’m mise with Boris Johnson’s demands to clear the political over back down on any fishing UK waters. deal, demanding ropean Union’. will is there from the Eunear-parity to the UK’s coastal waters. Christophe Hansen said the EU EU ambassadors have to meet the UK’s demands to would It comes as the governor of the Bank of En- end that a trade were told over the weekclinch gland warned that a no-deal deal with Britain is on the an agreement. "There will be compromisBrexit be more economically damaging would verge of being finalised. es to be made on fisheries. The status than They were told the majority quo, COVID to the UK. of the 11 main that is somewhere we're not going negotiation issues to land,” Andrew Bailey said failure he told an event. to get a deal with fewer and fewerhave ‘joint legal texts outstanding points’. signed would create a massive French fishermen are understood to have trade blockage and damage cross-border The European commission president, Urbacked the compromise despite losing goodwill be- sula von der Leyen, struck a positive on access to certain fishing grounds. out tween Brussels and the UK for years. saying: “After difficult weeks with very,note, Meanwhile, Ireland leader Micheal very It came after the EU’s chief negotiator Martin slow progress now we Mi- said on Monday he was hopeful chel Barnier demanded the need that a Brex- days better progress, have seen in the last to com- it deal would be completed more movement on this week. important files. This is good.”

SLAIN: Female brown bear Sarousse was shot by a hunter who claimed it was ‘self defence’ AN investigation has been launched after a pair of brown the Pyrenees this year. By Kirsty McKenzie bears were gunned down in a Spain’s environment minister “This is enough. These bears ‘dark day’ for efforts to pro- Palencia Teresa Ribera slammed the were everyone’s heritage,” said spokesman Garcia Palomountains, in Castect the endangered species. tilla y Leon, by a hunter who deaths and said efforts were ma, who insisted the laws The adult females were shot claimed underway he thought the crea- led to the to determine what needed to be strengthened. dead by different hunters, ture killings on Novem- Bears, once critically endanwith one claiming to have A was a wild boar. ber gered second bear, named Sa- It 29. fired at the bear in self de- rousse, comes after six green sideredin Spain, are now conwas killed during a groups, ‘high priority’ by the fence. including Ecologistas hunt In what has infuriated envi- The in the Aragon Pyrenees. en Accion, SEO Birdlife and World Wildlife Fund (WWF). ronmentalists, both animals of 21-year-old animal - one Friends of the Earth, united Brown bears became a protected species in 1973 as part just 350 in Spain - was shot to were killed in conservation dead demand immediate action. zones, in the week a law ban- The in the Bardaji valley. The Guardia Civil’s wildlife of an attempt to grow numbers in the Pyrenees between hunter, who claimed he unit Seprona confirmed ning hunting *Saxo Bank Awarded ‘Best Retail this France and Spain. FX Platform’ at thetional Parks in Spain’s Na- was acting in self-defence, week that an investigation The deaths came into force. e-FX Awards 2020 organised gunned came as sport and by FX Markets The first bear was shot in the blank her down at point- has now been launched. commercial hunting became range when she acted in an ‘aggressive manner’ illegal in Spain’s National after being disturbed by his Parks on December 5. Heritage dogs. The law was actually passed The deaths came Sarousse, who had originally after police in just 10 days in 2014, but the then-ruling been captured in Slovenia be- rested a local Catalunya ar- party, the PP, granted a six BORIS Johnson’s vital fore being released in 2006, tal official over environmen- year extension, came dinner date EUwhich chief Ursula is the third bear to be killed in a third bear, the death of to an end with von der last week. a six-year-old ended without a Brexit deal. Leyen male called Cachou, who was Hunters described as Seemingly,the theban one thing disaster’ killed in the Val d’Aran area ‘ecologicalcan will the two sides agree onthat that things are not golead to job in April. andisder overinglosses well. Von Leyen admitted the ofand the the The Spanish Brown Bear population species. UK EU were still ‘far apart’, Foundation described the Environmental groups called while Downing Street agreed ‘very killings as a ‘dark day for con- for Aragon’s council largeregional gaps remain’ ALL AREAS COVERED in negotiations. to suspend all wild servation’. Talks haveboar nowhunts been extended until where The group warned that dein the areas Sunday, the presdespite EU chief negotiator 4G UNLIMITED is known. liberate hunting carried pen- ence of bears Michel Barnier previously stating there would be no further alties of up to three years in INTERNET discussion after prison. Wednesday December IDEAL FOR Opinion 10. The Page 6 politician is said to be ‘very downbeat’ STREAMING TV and ‘very gloomy’, according to the Irish government. ALSO IPTV, A No 10 spokesperson, SATELLITE TV Johnson and von der has confirmed Leyen ‘agreed that by Sunday a firm decision Centro Plaza 56-57, Avda. Manolete s/n, 29660 Nueva Andalucia See page tel: (0034) 952 763 840 & 30the future of theshould be taken5about info@estucointeriors.com, www.estucointeriors.com, talks’. info@theskydoctor.com +34 952 810 Page 16

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on a cornucopia of Emerald Isle collectibles… and it even has Guinness turning it into Spain’s smallest pub. And if I say so myself, we’ve on draught. “After being cooped up like a man done a grand job.” in solitary in March I came up with Called El Irlandes, after his favourite Martin Scorsese film, it happily a plan,” the Valencia-based real es- fits his closest pals in tate consultant told the Olive Press. for the usual Friday night Blarney. “I had an old shed in the garden. got the lads over – Tuejar, El Gal-I Wilde, from Skerries, near Dublin, lego & Champ – and we set about has run the Found Valencia agency for two decades.

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Environmental groups unite after hunters kill two protected brown bears on ‘dark day’ for Spain

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SLAIN: Female brown bear Sarousse was shot by a hunter who claimed it was an act of ‘self defence’ AN investigation has been launched after a pair of brown bears were gunned down in a ‘dark day’ for efforts to protect the endangered species. The adult females were shot dead by different hunters, with one claiming to have fired at the bear in self defence. In what has infuriated environmentalists, both animals were killed in conservation zones, in the week a law banning hunting in Spain’s National Parks came into force. The first bear was shot in the Palencia mountains, in Castilla y Leon, by a hunter who claimed he thought the creature was a wild boar. A second bear, named Sarousse, was killed during a

By Kirsty McKenzie

hunt in the Aragon Pyrenees. The 21-year-old animal - one of just 350 in Spain - was shot dead in the Bardaji valley. The hunter, who claimed he was acting in self-defence, gunned her down at pointblank range when she acted in an ‘aggressive manner’ after being disturbed by his dogs. Sarousse, who had originally been captured in Slovenia before being released in 2006, is the third bear to be killed in the Pyrenees this year. Spain’s environment minister Teresa Ribera slammed the deaths and said efforts were

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Valencia is open!

VALENCIA remains open for visitors, with COVID restrictions more relaxed than most other regions, insists tourist chiefs. The city has been praised by businessmen and tourists alike for its

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have criticised the cost of the enterprise, including €123,000 for the sculptures. There is also the bill of €14,000 payable to Guinness World Records for certification. Councillor Manuel Jimenez justified the expense saying: “The visitor numbers justify it and we are seeing business being stimulated by the display.”

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Environmental groups unite after hunters kill two protected brown bears on ‘dark day’ for Spain

underway to determine what led to the killings on November 29. It comes after six green groups, including Ecologistas en Accion, SEO Birdlife and Friends of the Earth, united to demand immediate action. The Guardia Civil’s wildlife unit Seprona confirmed this week that an investigation has now been launched.

said spokesman Garcia Paloma, who insisted the laws needed to be strengthened. Bears, once critically endangered in Spain, are now considered ‘high priority’ by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Brown bears became a protected species in 1973 as part of an attempt to grow numbers in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. The deaths came as sport and commercial hunting became illegal in Spain’s National Parks on December 5. The law was actually passed in 2014, but the then-ruling party, the PP, granted a six year extension, which came to an end last week. Hunters described the ban as ‘ecological disaster’ that will lead to job losses and overpopulation of the species. Environmental groups called for Aragon’s regional council to suspend all wild boar hunts in the areas where the presence of bears is known.

Costa Blanca Sur - Issue 29

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tween keeping life normal and keeping it safe.” While tourism is year, the tourist down 80% on last boss says all activities, including cinemas and museums, are open. Best of all, unlike locals and tourists much of Spain, between midnight must only stay in “It’s a great time and 6am. to discover the city as there are no queues,” adds Bernabe. “We take the pandemic seriously, but we also believe in the right to have a full life.” Currently few places in the Comunidad face tough restrictions due high infection rates. to The city meanwhile,

has developed an activity card an app anyone called Valencia On, can download, not just aimed at tourists.

Is Baqueira really Spain’s top skiing resort?

CAN’T BEAR IT

No News is Bad news, p22

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“Life goes on and forward,” insisted we must move director of the Antonio Bernabé,

Turismo Valencia Foundation, to the Olive Press, this week. “We have struck a good balance be-

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Vol. 14 Issue 358 www.theolivepress.es December 9th - December 22nd 2020

Heritage

The deaths came just 10 days after police in Catalunya arrested a local environmental official over the death of a third bear, a six-year-old male called Cachou, who was killed in the Val d’Aran area in April. The Spanish Brown Bear Foundation described the killings as a ‘dark day for conservation’. The group warned that deliberate hunting carried penalties of up to three years in prison. “This is enough. These bears were everyone’s heritage,”

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December 9th 2020

EXCLUSIVE UNABLE to have night down the his regular Friday on a cornucopia boozer during lockdown, expat Conor lectibles… and it of Emerald Isle col- turning even has Guinness it into novel idea for this Wilde hit on a on draught. pub. And if I say Spain’s smallest one - to build his “After own pub! being cooped up done a grand job.”so myself, we’ve like a man The Irish expat, in 46, got his mates a solitary in March I came up with Called El Irlandes, after over and converted his favourplan,” the Valencia-based ite Martin Scorsese his garden shed tate real es- fits his film, FORGET THE DRAUGHT: into what he consultant closest pals in for it happily Conor est watering claims is Spain’s small- “I had an old told the Olive Press. Friday and pals at makeshift the usual hole. shed in the garden. night Blarney. local Measuring 2.4m got by 2.5m, it counts lego the lads over – Tuejar, El Gal-I Wilde, from Skerries, near Dublin, & Champ – and we set about has run the Found Valencia agency for two decades.

Valencia is open!

VALENCIA remains open for visitors, with COVID relaxed than most restrictions more By Eugene Costello sists tourist chiefs. other regions, inThe city has been praised by busi- ‘sensible’ approach, which has nessmen and tourists kept the economy running alike for its sible. as best as pos-

How Amy’s guitar-maker from Valencia won over the world

November 26th - December 9th 2020

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Vol. 2 Issue 29 www.theolivepress.es December 10th - December 23rd 2020

BRITAIN’S Prime Minister had a date with destiny last night in Brussels. Boris Johnson was having dinner with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to see if there was any chance of salvaging a so-called soft Brexit trade deal with Europe. It came after Johnson insisted a deal with the EU was looking ‘very very difficult’ on Tuesday. The frustrating news came after weeks of claims that a deal was close to being finalised. “We’ll do our level best, but I would just like to say to everybody - be in good cheer, there are great options ahead for our country,” Johnson insisted.

‘self defence’

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REACHING a trade deal with the EU is looking ‘very very difficult’ claimed Britain’s Prime Minister this week. It comes after weeks of claims tempt to salvage a deal. that a deal was close to being European Commission presfinalised. ident, Ursula von der “We’ll do our level best, but I confirmed that an EU Leyen, would just like to say to every- will begin on Thursdaysummit body - be in good cheer, there dress the disagreements. to adare great options ahead for our EU chief negotiator Michel country,” Boris Johnson said nier has been firm that talksBarwill yesterday (Tuesday) not continue past Wednesday Talks with the EU have re- and is ‘very downbeat’ and mained in deadlock for days gloomy’, according to the ‘very Irish thanks to disagreement over government. fishing quotas. As Johnson took to Twitter to While it comprises just 0.1% of celebrate the first day the UK economy, the fishing coronavirus vaccine rollof the out, row could spell a hit of up to 3% Belgium’s president jibed that LIVE for the economy and up Your to the the jab had been ‘Made in Euvoice in RESS same for Spain, the biggest Spain pre- rope’. dicted victim in Europe. LOCK-IN A final last minuteLOCKDOWN push will see See Cash Crash on COUNTDOWN TO BREXIT Johnson travelling to Brussels p23, and No Don’t forget News is in the ‘coming days’ in an atBad news on p30

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Taoiseach Martin said ‘by the end of this week we could see the outlines of a deal’. He said it would come down to ‘political will, both in the United Kingdom and I’m clear the political will is there from the European Union’. EU ambassadors were told over the weekend that a trade deal with Britain is on the verge of being finalised. They were told the majority of the 11 main negotiation issues have ‘joint legal texts with fewer and fewer outstanding points’. The European commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, struck a positive note, saying: “After difficult weeks with very, very slow progress now we have seen in the last days better progress, more movement on important files. This is good.”

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spokesman Garcia Palounderway to determine what said who insisted the laws led to the killings on Novem- ma, needed to be strengthened. ber 29. once critically endanIt comes after six green Bears, in Spain, are now conEcologistas gered the hunt in the Aragon Pyrenees. groups, including and sidered ‘high priority’ by The 21-year-old animal - one en Accion, SEO Birdlife united World Wildlife Fund (WWF). of just 350 in Spain - was shot Friends of the Earth, action. Brown bears became a proto demand immediate as part dead in the Bardaji valley. wildlife tected species in 1973 numThe hunter, who claimed he The Guardia Civil’s this of an attempt to grow was acting in self-defence, unit Seprona confirmed bers in the Pyrenees between gunned her down at point- week that an investigation France and Spain. blank range when she acted has now been launched. The deaths came as sport and in an ‘aggressive manner’ commercial hunting became after being disturbed by his Heritage illegal in Spain’s National dogs. deaths came just 10 days Parks on December 5. Sarousse, who had originally The police in Catalunya ar- The law was actually passed been captured in Slovenia be- after a local environmen- in 2014, but the then-ruling a six fore being released in 2006, rested official over the death of party, the PP, granted is the third bear to be killed in talthird bear, a six-year-old year extension, which came a the Pyrenees this year. week. called Cachou, who was to an end last Spain’s environment minister male in the Val d’Aran area Hunters described the ban as Teresa Ribera slammed the killed ‘ecological disaster’ that will April. and overdeaths and said efforts were in The Spanish Brown Bear lead to job lossesspecies. Foundation described the population of the called killings as a ‘dark day for con- Environmental groupscouncil for Aragon’s regional servation’. boar hunts The group warned that de- to suspend all wild the presliberate hunting carried pen- in the areas where See page 24 alties of up to three years in ence of bears is known. prison. “This is enough. These bears Opinion Page 6 were everyone’s heritage,” By Kirsty McKenzie

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Bar food from €5 171 Saint Martin’s Urban Irish – Tel: 963 942 Calle Abadía San Martín 2, 46002 Valencia

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promise in order to get an agreement. France had previously been refusing to back down on any fishing deal, demanding near-parity to the UK’s coastal waters. It comes as the governor of the Bank of England warned that a no-deal Brexit would be more economically damaging than COVID to the UK. Andrew Bailey said failure to get a deal signed would create a massive cross-border trade blockage and damage goodwill between Brussels and the UK for years. Meanwhile, Ireland leader Micheal Martin said on Monday he was hopeful that a Brexit deal would be completed this week.

21/6/19 13:30

after Environmental groups unite hunters kill two protected brown bears on ‘dark day’ for Spain SLAIN: Female brown bear

Valencia - Issue 2 RESERVATIONS WhatsApp: 680 743 904

A TRADE deal between the EU and Britain is on the verge of being finalised, after the EU looked set to cave in on fishing rights. An MEP broke ranks to say that it looked likely the French would have to compromise with Boris Johnson’s demands over UK waters. Christophe Hansen said the EU would have to meet the UK’s demands to clinch an agreement. "There will be compromises to be made on fisheries. The status quo, that is somewhere we're not going to land,” he told an event. French fishermen are understood to have backed the compromise despite losing out on access to certain fishing grounds. It came after the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier demanded the need to com-

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to GiTHE green light has been given braltar to vaccinate its population against coronavirus. to Now the government has pledged get 35,000 doses of the Pfizer-Biotech COVID-19 vaccine ‘as soon as possible’. Although the exact date is still unclear, the Medicines and Healthcare Products goRegulatory Authority has given the it ahead for its use in the UK and with Gibraltar. The first vaccinations started it is in the UK yesterday (Tuesday), and follow soon will Rock the that expected

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“It’s certainly been flying off the stand outside our office,” said Chris Solomon, manager of HomeEspana estate agency. “It’s obviously convenient being next to an Irish pub… but we’ve noticed quite a few Spanish also taking it.” Meanwhile, you’ll also find it up the coast in town’s like Castellon, where restaurants Puerto del Sol, el Faro Industrial and L’Antigua Valenciana all stock it. Meanwhile golf clubs like Escorpion, in Betera, and the four star Porto Cristo hotel in Peniscola welcomed it with open arms. “It is great to have an English newspaper launching in the area,” said chef Isaac Sidro, owner of the el Faro Industrial restaurant, in Castellon.

NATIVITY DOUBLE!

two LIKE buses, Alicante has bagged world records in one fell swoop. The city has been handed the Guinness the World Record award after buildinghistallest and largest nativity scene in tory. The display features a record-breaking 18-metre high statue of Joseph alongside a smaller Virgin Mary and baby Jesus. Created by Jose Manuel Garcia, its giant statue easily beats the old 1991 height record set in Mexico. The display is also now the world’s largest-ever static nativity scene occu-

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VALENCIA / COSTA AZAHAR 2020 December 10th - December 23rd FREE Vol. 1 Issue 2 www.theolivepress.es

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HAPPY: An early present IN the midst of one of the toughest times in recent years, with your help we have managed to expand to an exciting new region. Despite the spectre of Brexit and COVID-19, the Olive Press now has a SIXTH edition in Valencia and the Costa Azahar. Our fortnightly mix of news and features, experts and entertainment went down well in Spain’s third biggest. city. Delivered to over 100 spots around the city and up the nearby coast, it is most easily found on stands at Mercat Central or at the El Saler shopping centre. It is also well sited at the excellent Paris-Valencia bookshop by Corte Ingles in Plaza D’Alfons and at the popular Bear Club Irish pub.

Is Baqueira really Spain’s top skiing resort? Page 20

952 147 834 Ursula von der European Commission president, will begin on Leyen, confirmed that an EU summit Thursday to address the disagreements. has been firm EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier Wednesday and is that talks will not continue past according to the ‘very downbeat’ and ‘very gloomy’, Irish government. the first day As Johnson took to Twitter to celebrate Belgium’s presof the coronavirus vaccine roll out, ‘Made in Europe’. ident jibed that the jab had been of the European Meanwhile, Fabian Zuleeg, headhe was optimistic Policy Centre in Brussels, wrote and ‘swallow evfish’ on little a ‘get Johnson would erything else’. v a l i d

Mijas Costa

Palace con

No deal danger! * O f f e r

Blueprint

December 9th - December 22nd 2020 Vol. 5 Issue 137 www.theolivepress.es

the EU is looking REACHING a trade deal with Prime Minis‘very very difficult’ claimed Britain’s ter this week. a deal was close It comes after weeks of claims that to being finalised. just like to say “We’ll do our level best, but I would there are great opto everybody - be in good cheer, Johnson said tions ahead for our country,” Boris yesterday. in deadlock for Talks with the EU have remainedfishing quotas. days thanks to disagreement overthe UK economy, While it comprises just 0.1% ofspell a hit of up to the fishing disagreement could same for Spain, 3% for the economy and up to the the biggest predicted victim in Europe. travelling Johnson see A final last minute push will an attempt to salto Brussels in the ‘coming days’ in

turning it into Spain’s smallest pub. And if I say so myself, we’ve done a grand job.” Called El Irlandes, after his favourite Martin Scorsese film, it happily fits his closest pals in for the usual Friday night Blarney. Wilde, from Skerries, near Dublin, has run the Found Valencia agency for two decades.

Valencia is open!

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Opinion Page 6

Illegal means criminal IT’S a crime to enter the country illegally. Therefore, they (illegal migrants) are criminals. If you don’t like that, then petition the courts to change the laws to make it legal for anyone to arrive in the country. Until then, it’s illegal and yes, fish are useful. Criminals are not. Marthinus Strydom Senior, via FB

Britain is to blame BRITAIN started the wars in the countries from which people are fleeing, or sold the weapons that caused the wars that made these migrants homeless. Joan Slattery, Kilkenny

c u s t o m e r s

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Cruel irony

No choice

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How Amy’s guitar-maker from Valencia won over the world

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Our opinion piece that pointed out that more value is seemingly put on fish than migrants drew a hefty response...

Dirk Vandendriessche, Sevilla

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REFERRING to Mr West’s letter about electric cars (Last issue) I must admit that I am one of the persons that bought an electric car out of an ideological point of view and to collaborate in a positive way. Unfortunately, this is something 95% of the population does not do - you just have to look around. What I really hate is the negative comments from people like Mr West. It is amazing to hear what people make up in order to not have to collaborate or to react in a positive way. Regarding his points about rare minerals and people hiring out their children as slave labour, is it not better to put some effort into solving these problems rather than blaming a progressive project? To be honest, I sometimes feel like an idiot driving my electric car behind all these trucks and diesel cars which are killing us slowly by pumping out millions of tons of CO2. Where am I with my electric car? Indeed, in my opinion, you have to be brave to feel that silly. If the batteries are such a worry for Mr West, let him find a solution for unusable batteries. At least do something positive - there are enough eco-disasters to take care of!

JOY OF SIX!

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Spain VALENCIA / COSTA AZAHAR FREE Vol. 1 Issue 1 www.theolivepress.es November 26th - December 9th 2020

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MALLORCA

relaxed than more most other regions, Costello sists tourist chiefs. inThe city has ‘sensible’ approach, nessmen and been praised by busi- the tourists alike economy runningwhich has kept for its sible. as best as posBy Eugene

How Amy’s guitar-maker from Valencia won over the world

2020

“Life goes on and we must forward,” insisted move director of the Antonio Bernabé, Foundation, to Turismo Valencia the Olive Press, week. this “We have struck a good balance be-

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VALENCIA remains open for tors, with COVID restrictions visi-

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- December 9th

EXCLUSIVE UNABLE to have night down the his regular Friday on a cornucopia of boozer during down, expat Emerald Isle lock- lectibles… col- turning novel idea for Conor Wilde hit on a on draught.and it even has Guinness it into Spain’s this one - to build pub. And if I smallest own pub! his “After being cooped up like done a grand say so myself, we’ve The Irish expat, job.” a man 46, got his mates in solitary in March I over and converted came up with Called El Irlandes, after a plan,” the Valencia-based FORGET THE his ite into what he claims his garden shed tate consultant DRAUGHT: real es- fits Martin Scorsese film, it favourand pals at told the Olive happily his closest pals makeshift localConor est watering hole. is Spain’s small- “I had an Press. in for the usual old shed in the Measuring 2.4m garden. I Friday night Blarney. by 2.5m, it counts got the lads over – Tuejar, Wilde, from Skerries, lego & Champ near Dublin, – and we setEl Gal- has run the Found about for two decades. Valencia agency

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24th 2020

tween keeping life normal and ing it safe.” keepWhile tourism year, the touristis down 80% on last ities, including boss says all activums, are open. cinemas and museBest of all, unlike locals and tourists much of Spain, between midnight must only stay in “It’s a great time and 6am. as there are no to discover the city queues,” adds abe. Bern“We take the pandemic but we also believe in theseriously, have a full life.” right to Currently few places in the nidad face tough Comurestrictions due high infection to rates. The city meanwhile, has developed an activity card an app anyone called Valencia On, can download, just aimed at not tourists.

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Run by Visit Valencia range of discounts it offers a huge events, restaurants, for museums, transport and even hotels. You valenciaon.com, can find it at www. and it is completely free. Roland Wareham, 55, a company director from pressed by howAndalucia, was imwell the city handling the was pandemic. On a business trip from his Mijas this week, native he said: “I struck by how was Ruzafa, all thenormal life seemed. In were open, andbars and restaurants the terraces crowded with were enjoying the al families and friends “In Andalucia, fresco lifestyle. meanwhile, bars restaurants must and The Olive Press my town is like close by 6pm, and a ghost town at Valencia team “Valencia should getting the message night. out around the print for the rest serve as a bluecity this week of Spain.” A TRADE deal is on the verge between the EU and Britain Opinion, page 6 EU looked set of being finalised, after the By Dilip Kunar An MEP broketo cave in on fishing rights. Taoiseach Martin ranks to say that likely the French said ‘by the it looked week we could see the outlines end of this mise with Boris would have to compro- promise in order to get He said it would of a deal’. Johnson’s demands France had previouslyan agreement. UK waters. will, both in the come down to ‘political over back down been refusing United Kingdom Christophe Hansen on to clear the political and I’m near-parity to any fishing deal, demanding said the EU have to meet the UK’s would ropean Union’. will is there from the Euan agreement.the UK’s demands to clinch It comes as the governorcoastal waters. EU ambassadors of the Bank of es to be made "There will be compromis- gland warned that a no-deal were told Enon fisheries. The Brexit would end that a trade deal with over the weekthat is somewhere status quo, be more economically damaging than verge of being finalised. Britain is on the he told an event. we're not going to land,” COVID to the UK. They were told Andrew Bailey the majority of French fishermen said failure to negotiation issues the 11 main are understood signed backed the compromise have ‘joint legal to have trade would create a massive get a deal with fewer and texts cross-border despite losing blockage on access to certain The European fewer outstanding points’. out tween Brussels and damage goodwill commission It came after the fishing grounds. be- sula von and the UK for EU’s chief negotiator Meanwhile, Ireland der Leyen, struck president, Uryears. chel Barnier demanded saying: “After Mi- said on leader Micheal difficult weeksa positive note, the need to comMonday Martin with very, very it deal would be he was hopeful that a Brex- slow progress now we completed this days better progress, have seen in the last week. more movement important files. on This is good.”

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Is Baqueira really Spain’s top skiing resort? Page 20

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I AM afraid - in reference to Mr West’s letter - that we really have no choice when it comes to a sustainable future. It is no use refusing to do something about climate change because of real or imaginary problems. These are not insurmountable. What needs to be done is to solve the lesser problems posed by change rather than permit the greater evil to continue through inaction.

Serial killer concern as police probe if ‘the Pirate’ could be behind another missing man in the Balearics

John Andrews, Mijas

Tricky

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It comes after Britain’s ter claimed that reachingPrime Miniswith the EU was lookinga trade deal difficult’ earlier this week. ‘very very “We’ll do our level best, but I would just like to say to everybody - be in 3 1 / 1 2 / 1 9 . good cheer, there are ahead for our country,”great options Boris Johnson said. Talks with the EU have 21/6/19 13:30 remained in deadlock for days thanks ment over fishing quotas. to disagreeWhile it comprises just 0.1% of the A PENSIONER nicknamed ‘the Pirate’ UK economy, the fishing disagree- has been arrested by police hunting a ment could spell a hit of suspected serial the economy and up to up to 3% for Police believe killer in Mallorca. Juan Torres Serra, 57, a 48-year-old the same for Spain, the biggest predicted victim in could be behind the death of at least under strangeman who went missing Europe. four men in the Balearics, circumstances on Auincluding a gust 24. As Johnson took to Twitter to cel- German expat. Police are now ebrate the coronavirus They also think he may vaccine be behind doz- the body of the scouring the area for roll out on Tuesday, Belgium’s homeowner, who they president ens of armed robberies and violent believe jibed that the jab had been ‘Made in burglaries of homes around Mallorca the farmSerra buried on the grounds of Europe’. in Binasselem. and Ibiza. He is also suspected of kill- Serra told the police ing two dogs. Detectives picked up the man, whose name that the Spanish pensioner, who had been was given as Anstaying No News is Bad news tonio on p15 the grounds of a property owned in given L.M, had left for Ibiza and had by him a signed document that the house now belonged stating to him.

However, no trace of the been found and his bankman has ever not been touched since account has the day he went missing. This sparked an investigation into Ser

Mallorca - Issue 95 IT looks like being a miserable run up to Christmas for bars and the COVID-19 curfew restaurants after was brought forward by two hours. The Balearic Islands government has enforced a new 10pm to 6am curfew from last night. This will stay in place until at least December 21. President Francina Armengol said the measure ‘serves to combat coronavirus cases’ as ‘the the growth in ting worse in Mallorca’. situation is getAt present, the COVID-19 incidence rate over 14 days stands 100,000 inhabitants. at 260 cases per Armengol said this figure and ‘shows an upward trend is ‘worrying’ since the rate stood at 198 in infections’ last week.

Under this new measure, bars and restaurants must close at 10pm and people are restricted to their homes during the curfew unless a justified reason such for as an emergency. Armengol also announced that bars and restaurants in Lloseta, Soller, Sa Pobla and Muro would be banned from serving indoors with outdoor service only permitted during the same period.

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

HONESTLY, some people think immigrants are some sort of ‘thing’ that is less worthy of happiness, prosperity and a peaceful life than they are. The irony is that they are immigrants themselves most of the time! I just don’t get it at all. Laura Johann Criag, via FB

Pressure time THE world needs to place maximum pressure on the criminal governments running countries such as Nigeria. It’s an oil-rich country, but career politicians take all the wealth and leave their citizens to fend for themselves. Annie Macmillan, via FB

21/6/19 13:30

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OP QUICK Crossword Across 7 Incomparable (6) 8 Tidy (6) 9 Small wind-powered vessel (7,4) 11 Watch over (5) 12 Tract of grassland (7) 15 Elaborate dance party (7) 16 Tender (5) 18 Tube (11) 21 Reflecting surface (6) 22 Agriculturist (6) Down

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1 Besides (3) 2 Flight formation (8) 3 Trades (5) 4 Trap (7) 5 Paint unskilfully (4) 6 Kinsfolk (9) 10 Genuine (9) 13 Foot soldiers (8) 14 Source of bacon (7) 17 Snug (5) 19 Nobleman (4) 20 Northern hemisphere constellation (3)

All solutions are on page 23

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LA CULTURA

Please help our save our islands!

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December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Send your informa tion to newsdesk@theolivepr ess.es

When four makes five

Revamped exhibition highlights photographer’s works By Glenn Wickman

VALENCIAN political party Compromis is calling for greater protection of the Illes Columbretes, in Castellon. The group has filed two amendments to the state budget for 2021 – one requesting the ‘better, effective protection’ of the marine nature reserve, and another calling for greater investment in the Baix Maestrat district. A spokesman for the party pointed out that, although the Columbretes Nature Park falls under the jurisdiction of the regional government, the marine reserve is the responsibility of the state. Compromis has also requested a study to ascertain the wealth of the island’s wildlife, as well as the quality of the water. It also wants a moratorium on all oil prospecting activity that could alter the fragile balance of the ecosystem. A moat dating back 3,000 years has been uncovered during excavations in the Guardamar area. Archaeologists from Alicante University made the find at the Phoenician-built wall site of Cabezo Pequeno del Estano. The moat has a depth of three metres and has an eight metre width at the top. The significance of the Guardamar find is that it is just of only two moats discovered from the Phoenician era across the western Mediterranean area.

Skill

The other one is at the Castillo de Dona Blanca in Cadiz. The Phoenicians were primarily known as sailors who had developed a high level of skill in ship-building and were able to navigate the often turbulent waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Though based around an area that includes modern Syria, Israel, and Lebanon, they travelled far and wide, including to Spain and the British Isles. They were viewed as pioneers in maritime trading setting

DENIA photographer John Lillie has revamped his permanent exhibition at the town’s Restaurante Al Forn in time for the festive season. John’s display at the Plaza de Mariana Pineda eatery is called Quartets. All of the new photos are actually mounted on the reverse of the existing set so that they can be easily flipped over and switched into different combinations. The name Quartets comes from the rationale that many of the photos take on another life and identity when grouped into fours. “Four pictures can make a fifth and I see this as being symbolic as it can be down to the colours, the composition, the actual subjects or even that they are opposites,” John explained. John enjoys travelling around the world, camera in hand, as he concentrates on the many people that he bumps into. “I observe life by capturing the expres-

Ancient moat find

EXCEPTIONAL: Very rare Phoenician moat up bases in cities like Cadiz, moat might exist on the site. which was known as Gades. It has taken until now for it to The find at Guardamar has not be uncovered, especially with surprisingly generated a lot of quarry works taking place in excitement. the area. Alicante University archaeolPhoenician settlers built the ogist, Fernando Prados, said: large fortification close to “This is an exceptional disthe River Segura to a<mine covery of a Phoenician moat, for natural metals, while also especially as it is large and inseeking to repel local people tact.” unhappy about their occupa“The quality is equivalent tion. to those that you might find The fort and moat were built around in Beirut in Lebanon.” at a time when the sea was Aerial photographs taken over close by, compared to the two the years have suggested that a kilometre distance these days.

BOOK REVIEW

The International Brigades by Giles Tremlett

The Award-winning author of Ghosts of Spain tackles the history of The International Brigade in his latest book. During the Civil war, 61 countries around theworld sent over 35,000 volunteers to fight against Franco, Hitler, Mussolini, and fascism. It was the largest volunteer army since the crusades. Tremlett (pictured) sets out a fascinating story of resistance and courage against all odds and of European solidarity, through the experiences of The International Brigades.

SQUARE DEAL: Photos arranged in fours and Little

sion and personality of the human face. I just take pictures of random people who convey something interesting.” In spite of lockdown restrictions, John has still had a busy 2020.

He has concentrated on photographing characters in the local area including a session on a fishing boat. Last month, he held an exhibition at Denia’s Casa de Cultura.

Olga’s Plastic Problem A ‘FLOATING island’ sculpture consisting of 3,612 plastic bottles is on display in Alicante to highlight the problems of environmental pollution in the world’s oceans. The idea was conceived by local artist Olga Diego. It was originally going to be a large floating plastic sphere placed in the waters of La Albufereta beach for a few days in March. Pandemic restrictions put paid to that idea, so Diego decided to go for an indoor alternative. The fruits of her labour have been on display in Alicante’s Museum of Contempo-

PLASTIC: Highlighting environmental pollution rary Art. tion, all of which is reOlga Diego said: “Art cyclable. is a way of sending out The three-dimensiona message over things al exhibit encourages that can improve our people to use less sinlives and I hope that gle-use packaging and the floating island can has lighting within it. do just that.” Olga Diego enjoys pushThe inspiration for ing the boundaries in the piece came sever- art, and often making it al years ago when she come alive. heard that a large area She created a square of plastic pollutants hot air balloon out of had gathered in the Pa- plastic in 2015 which cific Ocean. she then took for a “If the Earth contin- journey over Elche’s ues the way it is, it will Carabassi beach. not last for long,” com- Three years later, she mented Olga.The ‘float- spent 58 hours locked ing island’ was created away in London’s SCAN with the help of stu- Project Room in a nondents from the Miguel stop drawing marathon Hernandez Institute, to see how far she could who put together the stretch her creative plastic bottle collec- process.

LA CULTURA Sore losers 12

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Madrid Naval Museum banishes its most popular painting because it glorifies a Spanish defeat ... but who are the real losers, wonders Cristina Hodgson

T seems that some people can’t take The large-scale work recalls the modefeat - even hundreds of years after ment when the ship, battered and out of the fact. ammo after days of intense battle, was A painting depicting the brave but ulti- forced to strike the colours of surrender. mately doomed final battle of a Spanish Admirers of El Glorioso say the paintwarship against British privateers has ing portrays a heroic action against a been removed from public display at the greater force that won even the eneMadrid Naval Museum. my’s praise. For many, The reason? Museum the picture depicting the directors think it ‘disreship and its brave crew Neither the spectful’ to the defeated who fought to the last captain to show the losing Glorioso or its bullet and cannonball is fight when it had gloriousinspiring story of hucaptain should an ly beaten the Brits in four man courage against the previous actions. But bosses at the be remembered odds. In place of the offending museum hold a different for defeat artwork they have hung a opinion. They are of the ‘more appropriate’ paintview that in an institution ing of an English ship set up to showcase great sinking... milestones and leading But the removal of the iconic painting in figures in Spanish naval history - a collecpreparation for the museum’s re-open- tion of 3,000 pieces in total - there is no ing has sparked a furious spat between place for a painting themed on defeat. directors and the general public. El Glo- “El Glorioso won four battles against the rioso, as it is affectionately known, has British and lost one. Neither the Glorioso been the painting most admired and nor Captain Don Pedro Mesia de la Cerphotographed by visitors since it was ac- da deserve to be remembered for that quired in 2014. defeat,” insisted Juan Rodríguez Garat, The reform of the formidable maritime admiral director of the Institute of Naval museum, one of the most important in History and Culture, in defence of the Europe, has been marred by controverartwork’s removal. sy over its glaring omission. “The painting does not reflect El ultimo combate del Glorioso by a significant event in the histhe current military history painter tory of El Glorioso or the Navy. Augusto Ferrar Dalmau, to give It has been replaced with a the painting its full title, shows the picture by Cortellini which deeponymous 74-gun warship shortpicts an English ship sinking,” ly before its capture in a battle added Garat. with a squadron of no Returning from Havana in less than 12 Brit1747, El Glorioso had not ish privateers off only fended off three Portugal in 1747. other attacks but

CONTROVERSY: This picture of El Glorioso’s last stand against British privateers has been removed from gallery (top) landed her valuable cargo safely on Spanish shores before doing battle against 12 British warships alone for three days and one night. It was a feat even British chroniclers, not usually given to praising the Spanish, greeted with respect, describing it as ‘honourable and extraordinary’. With tragic beauty, the magnificent painting portrays the ship in its final moments, stripped of its masts but still flying its flag,

with the men fighting like beasts on the splintered and smoke-filled deck, surrounded by English ships. Spanish novelist and journalist, Arturo Perez-Reverte Gutierrez (pictured left), who often draws on numerous references to Spanish history and colonial past in his novels, reproached the museum decision to remove El Glorioso, tweeting: “Please take this opportunity to explain why they (the Navy) have removed a

painting by Ferrer-Falmau on El Glorioso. Is it something personal against the painter, or is it simply stupidity?” Ironically, as Reverte also pointed out, in trying to hide the painting the museum has made it even more famous than it was before. “I am happy for Augusto Ferrer-Dalmau and for the memory of El Glorioso,’ he tweeted. ‘The naval museum that acquires it is going to be filled with visitors.’

THE paper not to miss on the Costa Blanca

HE Olive Press is now distributing all along the coast in a whole host of varied and colourful locations. Found at golf courses, tourist offices, museums and petrol stations, it has become the most sought-after English newspaper on

SERVING YOU: Olive Press locations

the Costa Blanca since launching two years ago. Look out for one of our many stands, as seen below at Iceland and Pepe Sal. Distributed by Self Select Media SL - a company that distributes millions of free newspapers around the UK every week - every distribution

point is carefully monitored and the drops audited each issue. We take our distribution very seriously, and need you, the readers to keep us informed of numbers... and more importantly if each location needs more or less papers.

We also want to know where you would like to see it and where you don't think we should bother. Here are a select group of a few dozen key drops. Please get in touch at Newsdesk@ theolivepress.es to find your nearest drop or suggest another.

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CHRISTMAS IS NEARLY HERE

FINISH YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING There is still time to buy all of the gifts you need this Christmas at La Marina Shopping Centre! Visit our stores now and place your gifts under the tree to make your loved ones feel special this Christmas.

EDUCATION FOR THE CHILDREN EFTC have opened a beautiful new gallery at La Marina Shopping Centre in order to raise funds for the education of children in Guatemala. Please come and visit their amazing studio to have a look around. You might just find that perfect piece of art your home has been missing, while contributing to an important cause.

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Our Christmas scavenger hunt is well underway, but there is still time for you to participate for the chance to win a ÂŁ100 voucher for a store at La Marina Shopping Centre! Please enter before the 7th of January and help us find Santa and his friends!

La Marina Shopping Centre is overjoyed with the addition of various new tenants this month.

Questions & Inquiries If you have any questions or queries, please contact us at: info@cclamarina.com

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BUSINESS

On the up

HOUSE prices, sales transactions and rentals have all skyrocketed in Valencia this year, with international buyers driving the market. The city has seen a growing demand from international buyers, especially from Asia, many of whom aspire to live a Mediterranean lifestyle. However, Asian interest is primarily fueled by the Golden Visa Program, which allows non-EU nationals to gain permanent residency by buying property worth €500,000 or more.

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Marina makeover

Three Kings to bring stunning mega-million makeover of Calpe marina

Golden

From January to June 2019, 848 residency visas were granted - 132 more approvals compared with the same period in 2018. The figures for 2020 are likely to be as high.. “The inquiries we have received from Singapore have tripled in recent months. Many are interested in the Golden Visa Program and the local property-buying process,” said Conor Wilde, CEO of Found Valencia estate agency.

REVAMP: Calpe marina to be a major draw by 2022

Cashing in A MERGER between CaixaBank and Bankia will generate a return on investment of 200%, according to estimates by Alvarez & Marsal. When the two organisations merged in September this year, the collaboration became the largest banking institution in Spain. Together, the super-company now has assets totalling €664 billion. But, despite the merger’s success, Alvarez & Marsal’s suggest that Sabadell, Unicaja and Liberbank are the most attractive due to their low price-books.

Returns

A BRAND new rebuilt Calpe marina will become a major tourist draw for the summer of 2022. Bulldozers are set to start work at the rundown site which will be renamed Marina PortBlanc and run by the company behind the Santa Pola marina on the southern Costa Blanca.

By Alex Trelinski

Port Boutique Calp will spend at least €5 million on the project alone, and they have been handed a 30-year franchise from the local council to run the new-look marina. A raised walkway will give

pedestrians a great view of the sea and the familiar sights of both the Peñon de Ifach and Morro de Toix. There will be 203 moorings at the site, most of which will be for eight-metre long yachts, with a few berths for 15-metre craft. Five new commercial outlets are to be developed and hotels and sea-tourism businesses are also being wooed to open up at the marina. As well as knocking down all the dilapidated buildings, Port Boutique Calp will also completely drain the marina of water.

That will allow the sand to be dredged and transferred to the Puerto Blanco beach, in addition to extending the water depth by around eight feet.

Enjoy

“Tourists and residents will be able to enjoy this recovered area of the coast with some impressive views,” said Valencia's public works minister, Arcadi Espana. Calpe mayor, Ana Sala, added: “This port area is iconic for local people and within 18 months, it will all look very different.”

In fact, they predict the merger between Unicaja and Liberbank, which is taking place in the coming weeks, could produce even higher returns than CaixaBank and Bankia with 270% . According to the firm’s report, “the opportunities for mergers and acquisitions must be evaluated based on the profitability provided to each of the entities; as well as the risk of integration, the net added value and any other qualitative, strategic assessment or politics.”

Hospitality heartache By Glenn Wickman

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BARS and restaurants throughout the Valencian Community have lost over 44% of income this year due to the pandemic. Businesses will have made an estimated €1 billion less than in 2019, with 8,000 jobs lost. Despite the severity of the figures, they are lower than the Spanish national average, which has suffered a 50% drop, according to the Hosteleria de España Business Union (CEHE). The losses sustained by Valencian hostelry – one of the sectors to endure the strictest restrictions in the COVID-19 clampdown – are far better than those in the Balearics (71%), Canary Islands (56.5%), and Madrid (50.9%). On a national scale, the sector is estimated to have lost €67 billion this year, with nearly one third of establishments – up to 100,000 – shutting down for good. Around 25% of all jobs have been lost in the sector. On a more optimistic note, the report by CEHE suggests that, if the vaccines are effective and a certain normality is recovered by next summer, businesses could return to their pre-pandemic level of income by the end of 2021 or the beginning of 2022. In addition, the union also highlights the business possibilities created by the pandemic, such as the use of apps to book tables, capacity control systems and digital

EMPTY TABLES: €1 billion less revenue this year menus via QR codes. Home delivery services are also expected to remain a key tool for many businesses to stay open despite the restrictions and the negative impact of the crisis. The catering trade accounts for 6.8% of the Valencia region’s GDP, with an urgent rescue plan needed to prevent the closure of a further 10,000 bars and restaurants in January. National Treasury minister Maria Jesus Montero announced that the government aid package for the catering trade is due to be approved before the end of 2020.

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PROPERTY

VALENCIA’S La Safor district is desperate for affordable, publicly owned housing. With the financial crisis caused by the pandemic leaving vast numbers of families unable to buy or even rent a home at normal market prices, the regional Housing department of the Generalitat this week issued devastat-

PROPERTY sales in Spain fell by 13.4% in October over a 12-month period according to the College of Notaries. The drop was significantly more than the 0.7% drop in September, but still far less than at the height of the pandemic in May, which saw a 53% decline in house sales. Unsurprisingly, property mortgages granted in October stood at 36,167, down by 6.7% compared to a year earlier. The Notaries pointed out significant regional variations in home sales with the Balearic Islands down by 24.1% in October compared to September, followed by La Rioja, Madrid, and Catalunya. In contrast, the Extremadura region saw a 15% hike in

Real estate

slowdown deals. The largest year-onyear fall was in the Balearics at 31.2%. The Brainsre.com real estate website says that the pandemic has also seen a fall in property prices. After analysing over a hundred online property sites and real estate agencies, they point out that before the State of Alarm began in March, the average Spanish house price stood at €1,760 per square metre.

Fall Now the average price is €1,753 per square metre based on figures compiled for July to September this year.

POLLY’S International Bookshop

December 23rd - January 13th 2021 ing figures for the region. The report classifies Valencian towns according to their public housing needs – and with regards to La Safor, Gandia has the highest. In fact, the district capital has the top score - in a negative sense - in Valencia Province and the fifth highest in the whole region, with its 3.84% rating classed as ‘High’.

Housing lifeline Other towns and cities with the same qualification in La Safor are Alfauir, Tavernes de la Valldigna, Beniarjo and Almisera, while towns with a ‘Medium’ level of public housing deficit include Oliva, Real de Gandia, Bellreguard,

Xeraco and Potries. The report reveals that a total of 248 municipalities throughout the Valencian Community need council-owned housing urgently, with more than 80% of the region’s population residing in these areas. Analysts point out that up to 30,000 extra properties would be required to cover the permanent housing

needs of all the crisis-hit families throughout the autonomous community. Valencian vice-president Ruben Martinez Dalmau described the figures as ‘shocking’, and yet another reason to put an end to the spate of privatisations that took place within the council housing sector on behalf of previous regional governments.

Not Wimpey-ing out Key UK developer planning 2021 growth A BRITISH developer says that ‘lockdown misery’ is helping holiday home sales in Spain as they launch five developments for 2021. Taylor Wimpey Spain also claims that the new properties will ‘boost the economic recovery of the country’. Mallorca is getting three new developments, along with one each at Marbella Lake on the Costa del Sol and in Javea on the Costa Blanca. Taylor Wimpey Spain marketing director, Marc Pritchard, said; “We’ve seen plenty of interest in BOOKINGS for Airbnbs in remote parts of Spain have soared in the past 12 months as tourists turn away from busy cities during the pandemic. The average price of a night in the small towns of Ferrol and Ourense, in Galicia, rose 28% and 9% respectively in the third quarter, according to AirDNA, which analyses data on vacation rentals. Meanwhile bookings and rental rates plummeted in major cities as high COVID-19 infection rates and restrictions kept holidaymakers away for

Spanish second homes during 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.” “Many buyers are waiting out the travel and lifestyle restrictions and spending this time planning their property purchase,” he added. “We’re going to be fully prepared when that pentup demand is suddenly released in 2021.” In spite of the push to get British and other foreign buyers, the company said that Spaniards have led the demand for properties this year at 18% nationally. That figure is even more

Remote working

By Alex Trelinski

dramatic on the Costa Blanca with 50% of all reservations coming from within Spain. ber of visitors over 2020. Both cities were hard hit by the pandemic and data suggests Airbnb guests will now pay more to stay away from crowds in more rural areas.

Nevertheless, Marc Pritchard believes that lockdown misery in the UK and across Europe will get buyers flocking in to get a taste of Spanish sunshine. “Sitting on a terrace in the sunshine during a lockdown is a very different experience from being stuck indoors in the rain.” “That has been a driving factor for several of those who have purchased homes from us during the pandemic,” he added.

Hard hit

months at a time. Barcelona and Madrid, two of Airbnb’s biggest markets globally, both saw a drop in the num-

KIM CLARK

In Barcelona, occupancy fell by an average of 45% while owners in Madrid reported an annual occupancy rate fell 58%. Comparably, Gaucin - a picturesque hillside village near Ronda - saw the occupancy rate jump by 27% this year.

OPTIMIST: Pritchard

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FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Food safety revolution By Glenn Wickman

RESTAURANTS and bars throughout the Valencian Community will be awarded points according to their food safety standards. The results will help the public make an informed decision about where to eat. Conservation and manipulation of foodstuffs, cross-contamination, cleanliness and pest control will be among the main areas targeted by inspectors. The level of compliance is set by official European health and safety laws. Negative points will be awarded for each instance of non-compliance, according to severity. They will be judged ‘favourable’, ‘favourable with conditions’ or ‘unfavourable’. Valencia is understood to be the first region in Spain to bring in the qualification programme. It has been welcomed by the Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU), who have been campaigning for its implementation since 2018. According to OCU, similar systems have already been launched in the UK, France and Denmark. Restaurants in the UK rank from 1 to 5, while in Denmark use emojis ranging from a smiley face to an angry one.

DRAM-A

SPANISH police have busted a major crime ring suspected of exporting fake whiskey. Over €800,000 worth of counterfeit booze has been seized and 14 people, aged between 37 and 52 years old, have been arrested. Cops launched Operation Fuco in the summer in a bid to bust what they believed to be the largest criminal network for the production and illegal distribution of whiskey. The group was widespread across Spain, with key bases in La Rioja, in Jaén and in Campo de Criptana, a town in Ciudad Real.

Over €800,000 worth of counterfeit whiskey seized in major crime ring bust By Kirsty McKenzie

The fraud had the potential to be worth more than €800,000 and cause damage to the unnamed counterfeited whiskey brand of almost €4 million. Officers seized nearly 300,000 whiskey bottles, 171,200 counterfeit tax stamps, and more than

BUSTED: Fake whiskey bottling plant uncovered

27,000 cardboard boxes with the logo of a well-known brand. Investigators suspect, but have not been able to prove, that some of the bottles seized were destined to supply the illicit market for alcoholic beverages, possibly in southern Spain. The people implicated used a legitimate firm involved in the distribution of alcoholic beverages in La Rioja. The first base of operations, in Ciudad Real, was run by an Asian businessman who imported from Asia fake tax stamps and counterfeit glass bottles, labels and caps for a well-known brand. The second base in La Rioja was in charge of preparing the alcoholic mixture and bottling it. The bottles were sent back to Ciudad Real where they added the labels and seals and got them ready for distribution. Those detained and the seized items have been made available to a court in Calahorra, La Rioja and the prosecutor at the La Rioja Superior Court of Justice.

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Grim Figures PASSENGER numbers at Alicante-Elche airport in November were 88% down on the same month last year. Travel and quarantine restrictions caused by the pandemic meant that just 112,618 people used the Costa Blanca facility last month. The airport has served 3.6 million travellers in the first 11 months of 2020, with the monthly passenger peak standing at 480,000 in August. Last year, Alicante-Elche airport recorded a seventh-successive year of growth as it ended 2019 with numbers topping 15 million travellers.

COVID-restrictions in Spain have pushed cava sales down as much as 40% this year. The early closure of bars and restaurants as well as limits on travel across much of the country meant that the country’s €1.2 billion fizzy wine sector is drying up. Brands like Freixenet have been hit hard according to Cava Regulatory Board Chairman Javier Page. Shipments of the fizz, mainly made in the northeastern Catalunya region, fell 10.5% in January to September from a year ago. Page said there was a bigger drop in domestic consumption than abroad, with sales to Britain, Sweden and Hol-

Fizzing out land remaining steady. Over a nine month period overseas consumption of cava dropped just 7% in comparison with a 13% dip at home. Damia Deas, chairman of AECAVA business group and manager of the Vilarnau brand, forecast sales could fall between 25% and 40% in 2020 from the 250 million bottles shipped in 2019. He said : “No doubt, it’s a terrible year...we had prepared for the worst but our sector has been able to resist a bit better than we thought.”

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

T’S undoubtedly Valencia’s unique selling point, a surreal city of swooping white concrete and glass undulating along the banks of the old Turia riverbed like a CGI creation from Star Wars. Calatravaland , as it’s sometimes called, was envisaged at a time when the cities of Europe were vying to make their mark on the international stage. Once, majestic cathedrals were erected to show a city’s worth. In 20th century Spain it was the spectacle of structural gymnastics like the City of Arts and Sciences that changed the city skyline. Similarly to its medieval counterparts it was built by the taxpayers and it continues to be maintained by the same today. So is it worth it? La Ciutat de les Arts de les Ciencies, to give it its proper Valencian name, is truly a sight to behold. Tourists flock in their droves to visit this spectacular vision which brought in €314.4 million in 2018 and has raised Valencia’s cultural status to near that of Barcelona and Madrid.

UNREAL CITY: Dubbed ‘Calatravaland’ after its homegrown architect, is Valencia’s €1.2 billion City of Arts a world wonder or a monumental waste of taxpayers’ money, asks expat architect Kevin Cash

ANCIENT AND MODERN: El Palau de les Arts i l'Hemisfèric and Ciutat vella by Kevin Cash

Arctic Monkeys

Each year (with the obvious exception of 2020), it attracts tens of thousands of international tourists enticed by events such as free MTV concerts headlining major acts like The Cure and The Arctic Monkeys. In many ways this is important, with cities attracting the biggest mass migration of our times. Their benefits are power in numbers, jobs, municipal facilities, hospitals, schools and the arts. Their downside, overcrowding, rush-hour traffic, inequality, lack of access to facilities and suburban malls killing local trade. Good sustainable management of urban spaces is definitely the key to their success. And the ‘build it and they will come’ philosophy has worked to a point creating new spaces and allowing new neighbourhoods to gain a foothold within the city limits, such as Calatravaland, which sits just outside the city centre. However, it is my belief that this overpriced development was created at the expense of the existing urban structure, which has been sadly neglected for a quick return. In particular, the old town of Valencia - Ciutat Vella - where I reformed my own flat and have been living and working since 2003.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Did Valencia need Calatravland? It was the PSOE who envisaged it in the late 80’s, to the condemnation of the PP. But when the party took power in the mid 90’s the scheme mushroomed to even greater heights. As a result of the ‘too big to fail’ syndrome, costs spiralled four-fold from the original budget of €300 million to well over a billion euros. During its construction the old town was largely neglected and the rot

set in, with drugs and anti-social behaviour becoming more commonplace. Just think what the city could have done with this amount of money? Sure, the architecture is impressive… The Palau de les Arts dominates the site allowing the city to host major international events. But after the obligatory photos to show off to your social media friends, what else does Calatravland offer? L’Hemisfèric, a

FISHERMAN: One of the few people seen at the City of Arts and Sciences this month, while (right) and dog walker

cinema, albeit 3D; an arboretum and disco where young Valencianos strut their stuff, and an opulent opera house where the moneyed older demographic splash the cash, paying up to €130 a seat. But behind the glitz, there are glitches. It’s been prone to flooding in the past. And what is the true value of a

science museum where the permanent exhibition hasn’t changed in 20 years. To a scientist, maybe that’s the nature of permanent, but only now are there new exhibitions in the pipeline. Upwards and onwards to Calatravaland’s crescendo, a mussel-like coruscation of a building yet to be finished, closed to the public after host-

A MARVEL: But by night it ‘dies a death and becomes cold and clinical and without depth’ ing a couple of tennis matches and a fashion show. The Àgora, a classic oxymoron populated by ghosts. It too is to get a facelift by bringing the Caixa Forum here to match Madrid and Barcelona. This can only be topped by the twisted apartments in the sky project (design fees €15 million) that is still on hold, although housing may

well give Calatravaland back some much-needed function over form. Therefore, do we blame the architect for all its shortcomings? Being one myself, I stand in solidarity with my fellow professional and say no. Calatravaland is a product of its time and the cultural psyche - Nero fiddled while Rome went down the pan. It may have satisfied our immediate

craving for new, shiny objects to raise us up, while giving us a quick fix of so-called high culture. The big question remains, what is needed to give it purpose in an age where sustainability is the new buzz word.REDUCE, reuse and only then recycle. After the tourists have overdosed on Calatravaland, the magnet which may have drawn them to Valencia in the first place, they must be enticed to venture further afield and discover its polar opposite, the old city where people live and work and raise their kids. A pleasurable bike ride along the old riverbed, the amazing green lung of the city, leads to a world of total contrast to Calatravaland. You can still meander along the narrow streets, albeit many are interspersed with vacant lots, like missing teeth, and decaying buildings covered in green construction mesh But beneath the cobbles, medieval and Moorish imprints still underpin the core of the city, and under these the Roman city that began it all. This is the Rome to Calatravaland’s Nero. Nowadays, the streets tracing the old city walls are almost devoid of traffic and manage to retain their tranquil charm. The grand palaces with their quiet and reclusive internal courtyards and the less noble buildings that tie in the whole urban fabric give a real sense of place. This has been a gradual evolution over millennia, not one man’s vision built over a few decades, devoid of the life blood of a living, breathing city. So why is the old town not being treasured as it should be and what will be the consequence of this? Private development here is at a standstill if not regressing, stifled by

red tape and the additional costs and restrictions that come with free zone. developing in a historic neighbour- But it is time that neglected plots hood. There are new build opportu- were addressed. Redesign would nities elsewhere in the city that are encourage community ownership of more lucrative and less hassle. neighbourhoods through ‘passive Like many cities, there is also an surveillance’. For example more element of antisocial behaviour in semi-private spaces are needed to some areas, especially in August protect private domains, such as when most people leave the highs simple front gardens for existing of 40 degrees celsius for the beach ground floor social housing projects. or mountains and a less discernible All this would be for the greater good, element frequents the area, includ- creating an environment for everying the most vulnerone, as Calatravaland able of society, the continues to draw in homeless, drug addicts the tourists to the widCould and drunks. Although er city. it’s not as bad as the In conclusion, is CaCalatravaland, 1980s and 90s when latravaland, just too a heroin epidemic left be too modern? modern? Is that why most of the old town it’s so intriguing, beIs that why it’s cause no one really and the riverbed off limits. it? In my so intriguing? understands Before the pandemopinion the main dific, tourist rentals and ference is that ‘it just noise pollution plagued ain’t got soul’. the sleep of residents and the build- No doubt in architectural terms it’s a ing works, though desperately need- marvel, a sculpture to behold. But at ed, caused tension between home night it dies a death, becomes cold, owners within apartment blocks. clinical, without depth. It’s people inMoving forward, how can the char- side looking out, unlike the old town acter of the old town be preserved which is outside looking in. whilst being regenerated, along with The charming ruin of the much nethe wider city (La Cabañal, Beni- glected c iutat vellais a more human machet, Russafa, Patriax)? Some scale, an area that carves out places measures have been put in place to as opposed to Calatravaland being address the situation, for example, objects within space. The old town is public consultation. Unfortunately, given life by its inhabitants and, even this is slow and small scale as the through this surreal time, it contintown hall is strapped for cash. ues to delight and give hope for the Some positive initiatives have also future. borne fruit, such as the traffic engi- The pandemic has given us pause for neering project to reduce vehicles thought. Let us use this opportunity and increase bike travel city-wide. to focus on our built heritage and reThe old town has benefitted the most invigorate what we have here in Vafrom this and is now an almost traffic lencia, the existing old and the new.

Photos by Jon Clarke

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Sites for sore eyes

Laurence Dollimore discovers Spain’s most treasured UNESCO sites

SPAIN is richly endowed when it comes to natural beauty and historical sites. This has been recognised by UNESCO, which has so far included 48 locations across Spain on a list of sites awarded protected status from the United Nations culture department since it was established in 1945.

The collection of sites reflects the complex and varied history of Spain from Roman times, through the Moorish conquest and Christian Reconquest to the pInnacle of its power as a Renaissance empire during the 15th and 16th centuries. Check out the OP’s own Unmissable UNESCO collection.

ENSHRINED: The prehistoric burial chamber Dolmens in Antequera are one of the most recent sites to be recognised by UNESCO

Palmeral of Elche, Alicante An oasis in the heart of a Spanish city. This historic date palm grove was awarded World Heritage status in 2000 for being a unique example of Arab agricultural practices on the European continent. Its formal layout, a typical feature of the North African landscape, was transplanted to Spain during Islamic occupation and has managed to survive to the present day. The ancient and elaborate irrigation system, which is still functioning, is an additional highlight.

Monastery and Site of the Escorial, Madrid

Cathedral, Alcazar and Archivo de Indias, Sevilla This trio of architectural gems in the heart of the city are a monumental draw for tourists. The Moorish Alcazar is the oldest royal pala-

ce still in use in Europe; the gothic cathedral is the largest in the world and contains the tomb of the world’s most intrepid explorer, Christopher Columbus; while some of his charts can be Vizcaya Bridge, Bizjaia, Basque Country seen at the stunning Renaissance A more recent addition to the list is the Vizcaya Bridge, awarded UNESCO Archivo de Indias status in 2006. The world’s oldest transporter bridge - designed by Bilbao architect Albuilding, which berto de Palacio, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel - opened in 1893. The 43m holds the largest high structure was the first in the world to carry people and traffic on old world collection a moveable section of roadway across a river. The suspended gondola of documents relasystem was used ting to New World as a model for simidiscovery. lar bridges across Europe, Africa and America, only a few of which remain. UNESCO added it to its portfolio in 2006, praising its innovative use of lightweight twisted steel cables and hailing it one of the most outstanding architectural iron constructions of the Industrial Revolution.

Islamic Between them, they epitomise Spain’s Golden Age, incorporating vestiges of Islamic culture, centuries of ecclesiastical power and the trading clout Spain acquired through its colonies.

More than 500,000 tourists a year visit the spectacular Renaissance palace and monastery complex built by the great Philip II of Armada fame. Constructed from the profits of New World discovery during the 16th century ‘Golden Age’, it comprises the royal monastery and a magnificent hunting lodge and retreat, some five kilometres away. In these two buildings, the might of the Spanish monarchy and the clout of the Roman Catholic Church come together

in jaw-dropping architectural splendour. Under UNESCO’s wing since 1984, the royal site includes a stone complex of extraordinary dimensions surrounded by formal gardens, the monks’ kitchen gardens, the House of Trades, and the Company Quarters where the palace and monastery services took place.

Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Extremadura From humble origins as a 13th century chapel, this Caceres monastery came to symbolise two significant events in world history both dating from 1492: the Spanish reconquest and Christopher Columbus’ voyage of discovery. It was here that the great explorer came to give thanks to the iconic Virgin of Guadalupe for his safe passage to the Americas. Added to over the years, making it an exceptional example of widely differing architectural styles, the monastery remains a place of pilgrimage for the Western world and Latin America. It joined the UNESCO stable in 1993.

HEALTH Don’t count on the herd! By Laurence Dollimore

JUST under 10% of the Spanish population have been infected with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, a study has found. The fourth round of the ENECOVID National Seroprevalence Study estimates that 4.7 million people (9.9%) have already caught the disease. Around half of these were infected during the first wave and the other half during the second, said the report, prepared by the Ministry of Health, the Carlos III Health Institute and National Institute of Statistics (NIE). At a regional level, the most affected have been in Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha and Castile y Leon, particularly during the first wave. After the nationwide lockdown, Navarra, Barcelona, Lerida and Zaragoza were among the hardest hit.

As few as 5% of many regions, including Valencia, have been infected with COVID According to the study, there are three provinces in which more than 18% of people have been infected; Cuenca, Soria and Madrid capital. On the other end of the spectrum, the least affected provinces, with less than 5% of people infected, are Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas, Lugo, Pontevedra, La Coruña, Valencia, Huelva and Cordoba. A total of 51,409 people took part in the study, which revealed the most at-risk groups were health workers, of whom 17% have been infected. As have 16% of women who care for dependents, 14% of female cleaners and 13% of women who work in care homes. The prevalence of the disease

BIG BIG TEST PRESIDENT of the Valencia region, Ximo Puig has issued the sternest of warnings to the population. He appeared on La Hora de la 1, claiming that the next few days will be a ‘very big test’ regarding lockdown rules. Despite regional figures being better than many areas in Europe, they are not getting better. Puig stressed that if more restrictive measures

is also higher among the foreign population, standing at 13%. This anomaly is explained ‘by the work they do or by their living conditions’, said the director of the National Epidemiology Centre of the Carlos III Health Institute, Marina Pollan. The expert would have been referring to the fruit pickers and farm workers who are mostly made up of immigrants. According to the report, no province in Spain will achieve herd immunity in the short or medium term, as this would require at least more than 50% of the population to have overcome the disease. “The more people that have been infected, the more barriers have been established,

were to be taken, they would be implemented. He said, “The severity of the possible third wave is up to us." Maximum prudence was asked of the population with joint responsibility being taken to address the possibility of a third wave of coronavirus at Christmas. He admitted the idea of that, ‘is terrible, very terrible’. He reminded everyone that although the official restrictions end on January 15, we have some periods of respite. The exceptions allowed are from December 23 and 26 and then December 31 and January 1.

Get lamped EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Crumbie

THE Spanish Health Ministry has confirmed that the LAMP test for detecting COVID-19 is now accepted for those wishing to enter the country. Although UK citizens are blocked from visiting the country in general, those with a residency certificate can return, provided they pass a valid COVID test first. In an official state bulletin the ministry said that, in addition to the PCR test, the TMA (Transcription-Mediated Amplification) test and ‘other molecular detection techniques’ are now valid for travellers to Spain. This raised some confusion, as the TMA test is not yet available in the UK or Germany and there was no specific mention of the LAMP test, which was recently approved by the UK government. However, the Ministry of Health has now told The Olive Press that the LAMP test is valid as well. Like the PCR test, the

LAMP (Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification) test detects genetic material (RNA) from the virus and is carried out using a swab from the nose or throat. According to an evaluation carried out by NHS trusts and universities, it is ‘accurate and sensitive enough to be used for COVID-19 testing, including for those without symptoms.’ “The OptiGene RT-LAMP test was found to have a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 100%, meaning the test is effective in identifying the cases who are infectious and are

most likely to transmit the disease. “In samples with a higher viral load, the sensitivity of the test increased to 94% for saliva and 100% for swabs.Importantly for travellers, it is also cheaper and produces results faster than the PCR test, because it is performed at a constant temperature. The LAMP test can be booked at London Heathrow, Manchester, London Stansted, and East Midlands Airports, where it costs £79 and gives results in under 90 minutes. You can book a LAMP test up to four weeks ahead.

but that does not prevent transmission of the virus,” said Carlos III director Raquel Yotti, “We have not achieved herd immunity, even in places that have had a greater circulation of the virus.”

Security

She added: “The 18% rates are not enough to abandon the security measures that must be taken.” There has, however, been a noted improvement from the first wave in the detection capability in Spain, increasing from one in 10 infections being identified to six in 10 i.e. 60% of infected patients are being found and treated under current testing programmes.

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

INVESTIGATORS at Valencia’s Hospital Clinico are currently working on a method to operate in advanced cases of pancreatic cancer that until now were considered inoperable. The investigation by the Incliva Institute is said to have highlighted the importance of integrating multiple healthcare specialities into the treatment of certain diseases. In the case of advanced pancreatic cancer surgery, Incliva has found that a multi-disciplinary preoperative strategy greatly increases the ratio of successful curative surgical interventions. Furthermore, this approach reportedly leads to similar positive results as in the cases where early surgery was possible. Up to one third of all cases of adenocarcinoma of the pancreas are currently in-

cancer hope

operable due to the large local extension of the tumour at the time of diagnosis, leaving patients with no alternative than to begin palliative care. As part of the study, researchers followed the treatment of a large number of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer at the Hospital Clinico between the years 2011 and 2019. Investigators found that many those who were not initially eligible for surgery benefitted from preoperative treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, resulting in half of those patients then being able to undergo operations with high success rates.

Summer Target SPAIN’S health minister, Salvador Illa, has predicted that 70% of the population will be vaccinated by the end of the summer. He added that enough ‘herd immunity’ would be generated at that stage to witness the ‘beginning of the end’ of the coronavirus pandemic. Vaccinations will start in Spain next month with the first jabs heading to nursing homes and their staff, followed by health workers. Illa said that it was good news on the vaccination front but that people will need to wear a mask and follow social distancing rules for some time. “We must take precautions until the experts tell us we can start lifting restrictions,” Illa added. “We don´t want to keep emergency measures in place longer than necessary but there are serious dangers if we rush too quickly to lift restrictions.”

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HEALTH

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

estive check

With the run up to the rich foods and boozing of Christmas looming, Gabriella Chidgey (left) decided to go for a full health examination, with wine and a vegan diet brought to the fore

EACHING 50 and already While the advancement of heart losing friends to cancer disease follows a more predictthis year, I was anxious to able pattern, requiring screenfind out if I had anything ing every five years, cardiologist untoward lurking beneath the Henrik advises yearly screening surface. for cancer. With the festive season set to In our consultation immediately begin, I knew I’d be polishing after the test, he thankfully reoff double the usual calories for ported that he could see no obweeks on end, as well as prob- vious signs of disease or injury. ably tripling the recommended Nonetheless, the following week, alcohol rates. Would this set off he promised a more studied rea domino effect of pain and suf- port of the MRI scans alongside fering in the new year? the laboratory results of the I was particularly concerned blood, urine and stool tests. since I have been suffering from And then, perhaps predictably, debilitating digestive complaints the subject turned to diet, which that were beyond the range of according to his research should the familiar IBS symptoms this be our overwhelming priority. year. Now I am a pretty healthy eater I chose a full medical check at and have to be due to my stomExecutive Health, in Marbella, ach issues, but he surprised coordinated by me by suggestheart scientist Dr ing that I follow Henrik Reinhard Eating poultry a largely vegan, in the hope that plant-based, increases your wholefood diet. it would enlighten me. was more acrisk of prostate Icustomed The annual to rescreening inceiving platitudes and colon volves a thorough from doctors cancer MRI examination about reducing of the thorax, abstress and avoiddomen and pelvis ing the obvious alongside a clinical evaluation dietary irritants, namely cafof my heart, balance and coor- feine, spices and alcohol. dination, a lung function test, However Henrik claimed that and analysis of blood, urine and this would be much more than stools. a salve for the stomach. He exMagnetic Resonance Imaging plained that a vegan diet can (MRI) uses a powerful magnet- ‘modify our natural history and ic field combined with specific actually reverse the process of radio frequencies to create de- atherosclerosis’ (the dangerous tailed images of internal body calcification of the arteries that structures (organs, bones and can lead to heart attacks and tissues) with the aid of a sophis- cardiac arrests) a claim supportticated computing system. ed by scientific research. By detecting abnormalities, Since 40% of the population are cancerous and non-cancerous at risk of cardiovascular disease growths, damaged tissues, in- then this is revolutionary inforflammation, infection and much mation. more it can help diagnose the He added that other studies presence of disease or injury. revealed that eating poultry in-

MIX: Cut down red meat and eat more pulses, grains and nuts creases your risk of pancreatic, prostate and colon cancer by 72%. Red meat is considered even worse for your health, with pork slightly better than lamb and beef, while fish also has its dangers. Dr Henrik recommended following the approach to nutrition as outlined by Dr.Greger in his excellent book ‘How Not to Die’, which I conveniently have on my bookshelf. Greger advocates the consumption of a ‘daily dozen’, which includes servings of beans, fruit,

greens, grains, flaxseed, berries, spices, nuts, and also 60 to 90 minutes of exercise every day. As for the vast array of supplements I have bought over the years, Henrik advised just two; vitamin D3 and B12 cyanocobalamin.

Wine

He also mentioned - and this was the good bit - that medical evidence supported the benefits of a couple of glasses of wine per night, so long as there are also a couple of days of abstinence a

INSIDE OUT: An MRI scan can detect cancerous growths, inflammation and infection, and even more imbalances in the body

week. He did stress that. I took note and went home to pore over my copy of Greger, relieved to discount the many other diet books taking up valuable shelf space. About 10 days later, we met again to discuss the laboratory results and full MRI report. All of which were also given to me on a memory stick for future reference. Fortunately, nothing of any significance had appeared in the detailed report so no further consultations with specialists

For more information and to set up a health check contact Henrik at Executive Health on 603840984 or info@executivehealth.es

nor treatment programs would be necessary. The laboratory tests also confirmed that there were no infections present in my body and that my levels of good cholesterol were high and the bad cholesterol low .

Eggs

Using all the data gathered, Henrik was able to calculate my overall risk of heart disease to be just 20%. I was thrilled. For my part, since then by following a weekday vegan regimen with meat on the weekends, I have improved my symptoms by about 80%! The main culprit for me is probably dairy (including sheep and goat products) however Henrik suggested that I also continue avoiding gluten due to the general sensitivity of my digestive system. And then the good doctor threw down the gauntlet by suggesting I give up meat, fish and eggs completely. In his opinion this would lower my cholesterol from 115 to below 100, which in turn would reduce my risk of cardiovascular disease to just 5.8%, the lowest rate imaginable...one that practically no-one he knows has got down to. With Christmas coming, I may just make this my New Year Resolution!

December 21st - January 12th 2021

Lisa Burgess

S a child, Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge scared the bejesus out of me. My mother, Ann Burgess, created the most magical Christmases every year and my memories are splendorous but I wondered youthfully how life would be without her as I watched him with utter fear. In Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol, Scrooge said: “I wear the chain I forged in life. I made it link by link and yard by yard and I girded it of my own free will”. I never understood that till I lived my own life. Rather than the material part of Christmas, I think forgiveness is the greatest gift we

COLUMNISTS

Bah humbug!

Lessons from Christmases past can give to all. If we were all visited by the Ghost of Christmas past, present and future let’s wonder where we would all be? We have all made mistakes, nobody is infallible. Yet we can change the paths of our life with small steps. If you are alone this Christmas and I will be too then these tips may help: Try volunteering on the day to help out at a shelter, wrap up and take yourself for a brisk walk so you see other people and most of all never fail to treat yourself. It doesn’t have to be all the

turkey and trimmings with sparkly people around you. Enjoy what you love.

Ruined

I hosted a huge Christmas once with my great aunt Lily. She had lost her husband and was so dreadfully unhappy. She ruined Christmas dinner because I had been given a car for Christmas and she didn’t think I appreciated it enough, never mind that it was on my credit card and though the big red bow was wrapped around it, I felt I had been had. I miss her and all those who have gone before her, especially my dear mum. So I say let’s raise a glass to Christmas present and future. As Scrooge said: “Can you forgive a pig-headed old fool with no eyes to see with and no ears to hear with all these years?” Yes, we can and I say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all!

December 23rd - January 13th 2021

Killing time Talking Christmas in Spain, writes Valencia-based Tash Aleksy

HRISTMAS in Spain consists mostly of killing time until the kids go back to school. El Gordo (Yes, the Christmas lottery is called ‘The Fat One,’) marks the beginning of Christmas, if we ignore the fact that El WISHING ON A STAR: El Gordo lottery is a national addiction Corte Ingles started whacking out the toy adverts and and typically a matriarch will blind drunk) safe in the riling the kids up in October have the whole family over knowledge that they’re not while we were still throwing to eat €200 worth of gam- cooking or hosting on the together ghost bas (prawns) 25th. costumes. El before you’ve El día de Navidad (Christgordo is a bit Have the whole even thought mas Day) is basically pricey to parthe more food. The toy adfamily over to about ticipate in, but main course. verts mean nothing beyou’ve got a eat €200 worth Once every- cause the kids generally good chance one is full to open only something of gambas of winning a bursting point small, if anything. prize, however the family di- The good stuff (prawns) small. vides down is saved for Noche Buena the middle Reyes (The (Christmas Eve) is the next - the ones who go to misa Three Kings family event you have to (mass) and the ones who go 6th January) and endure. It’s an evening do out to ponerse ciegos (get then the kids are back to school the next day. Great negotiation tool over the school holidays. El día de navidad everybody gets together in another house, because yesterday’s house looks like a bomb has hit it. There isn’t a set tradition food wise some people eat cordero (lamb), some cocido (a kind of stew) or of course in Valencia, arroz (rice).

Requiem for the Christmas card

DON’T know about you weddings, christenings and but I’ve got three solitary holidays abroad … such as Christmas cards to display they were, in 2020 …. Far on my mantelpiece this more interesting than a card Christmas. It’s nothing like ye from someone indecipherable, old yuletide’s past when cards scrawled in the handwriting of were sent from ‘The Becketts’ a drunk, although it does leave to all and sundry, from great one’s mantelpiece bereft. aunts twice removed to Dad’s But who can blame them? No office caretaker. one wants to stand outside Throughout the the post office month of Dein a slow-movcember, the ing queue for The postman postman rang stamps when rang at least at least twice they can press daily and recipSend from twice daily rocal Christmas the comfort mail avalanched of their own as cards through our lethome office. My avalanched in thoughts go out terbox like the owl letters in to anyone beHarry Potter. hind me in the Cards not only decked the queue at Los Barrios post ofhall but covered every surface fice last week. I got the trainee area, littering occasional ta- who spent 13 minutes and 26 bles, festooning the fireplace seconds finding out the price and hanging like bunting from of a stamp to the USA and had the pelmets, an impressive never heard of Nueva Zelanda testament to my parents’ wide … or maybe it was my Spansocial circle. glish accent … and thought it These days everyone’s Zoom- was probably in Europe. ing, emailing virtual Moon Pig Mind you, with the recent cards or composing Christ- lockdown confining us within mas newsletters embedded borders, there were precious with live video links to family few decent card shops you

OP Puzzle solutions Across: 5 Mermaids, 8 Awed, 9 Weightlifting, 10 Miscarriages, 13 Music teacher, 16 Dairy products, 19 Bali, 20 Relished. Down: 1 Selenium, 2 Historic, 3 Ragtag, 4 Sean, 6 Magic, 7 Ski, 11 Ice lolly, 12 Sweet pea, 14 Sprain, 15 Chums, 17 Ajar, 18 Par.

SUDOKU

Quick Crossword

lation

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COLUMNISTS

The ping of the inbox will never replace the postman’s knock, writes Belinda Beckett

Fools

could legally go into. Luckily I found some from last year at the back of a drawer so if you get one from me, you got leftovers! COVID has changed almost everything but it would be a

shame if the Christmas card became another casualty. Like Charles Dickens, plum pudding and the 1951 Alastair Sim movie, Scrooge, they’re part and parcel of a tradition that goes back longer than you think. The commercial Christmas card was invented by Sir Henry Cole in 1843 but Queen Victoria was not, as is commonly thought, the first to send one. She was pipped at the post by learned German alchemist Michael Maier who sent one to James I of England in 1611. Only discovered in 1979, his long-winded message laid out in the shape of a rose read: ‘A greeting on the birthday of the Sacred King, to the most wor-

shipful and energetic lord and most eminent James, King of Great Britain and Ireland, and Defender of the true faith, with a gesture of joyful celebration of the Birthday of the Lord, in most joy and fortune, we enter into the new auspicious year 1612’. In short, have a good one!

After that the only thing left to do is have a lie down. Like in many other places, the days between Christmas and Noche Vieja (New Year’s Eve) is no man’s land except for December 28, which not many people know is El Día de los Santos Inocentes (Innocent Saints Day). Those that went to misa en noche buena know that this day is a Christian commemoration day from the killing of innocent children in Bethlehem. The ones who went out partying will be the ones who know it is also the equivalent of April Fools’ Day - so take anything you’re told on the 28th with a pinch of salt!

Tash Aleksy has been living in Patraix for 10 years and offers online Spanish classes at www. spanglishcity.com; her number is 633 091 664

OLIVE PRESS

The

COSTA BLANCA

FREE

Vol. 2 Issue 46

COVID queue

FINAL WORDS

FORGET COVID, one long standing Christmas tradition held firm on Monday when people stood in line for hours to buy an El Gordo lottery ticket at Madrid’s Doña Manolita shop, renowned as a lucky store.

Girl power A GROUP of six women who used to run cycle tours in Barcelona have decided to take on Amazon and Deliveroo by setting up their own ‘ethical, sustainable and inclusive’ delivery service based on two wheels.

Till rings A VALENCIAN businessman has been awarded €25,000 in damages after a photo of him standing next to a picture of a fictional mafia clan in 2016 Ben Affleck movie The Accountant was used by a film company.

Windy night

RUDOLPH and his flatulent reindeers will ‘emit’ up to 22 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Spain alone this Christmas Eve. Professor Phil Garnsworthy, from the University of Nottingham, has calculated Santa will cover 419,000 kilometres as he travels around the UK, with a similar figure in Spain. While the country has fewer households, it has more distance to cover. It also has to deal with the Three Kings and their ‘windy’ camels contributing to the climate crisis when www.theolivepress.es December 23rd - January 13th 2021 they visit for the Epiphany. Professor Garnsworthy, who conducted the study to publicise Fiat’s By Alex Trelinski E-Ducato electric van, said: “Rudolph, Vixen, Dasher and co have a AN injured grey seal which very busy night of work surfaced in the waters of the ahead of them and the Costa Blanca has been given methane they will be a dose of antibiotics via a Globe-trotting Sammy gets much needed TLC after emitting, while considblowpipe. arriving in Valencia, via Gibraltar and Portugal erably more potent than Vets from the OceanografCO2, is respectable conic Foundation, in Valencia, Wales and Scandinavia. sidering the work they’ll tracked the elusive mammal He is believed to be the be doing. down to the Javea area after same seal that was spotted “They’re a lot more efit had been spotted off Altea at a jetty in Gibraltar in late ficient than your averand Moraira. November, and a month beage diesel van and they Mystery surrounds how the fore that off the Algarve, in wouldn’t be subject to grey seal reached the area as Portugal. any congestion charges, it is native to the north AtApparently on a global tour, but the sleigh they power lantic, with its main breedthe adventurous animal sadis still a fair way off being ing grounds in Scotland, ON THE MOVE: But Sammy needed urgent treatment ly injured himself when it zero emission.” appears he got tangled in a fisherman’s net. A BRITISH photographer has captured the Vets boarded a Javea police alignment of Saturn and Jupiter, aka the Star boat and got close to the seal of Bethlehem, from his Costa Blanca balwho was bobbing along in In the year 7 BC, the so-called Star of cony. the waters off the Portixol Bethlehem - or Christmas Star - ocAlexander James (left) caught area, clearly in discomfort. curred on three occasions, in May, the remarkable moment Knowing it would be exSeptember and December. from his Torrevieja The Olive Press tremely difficult to capture The story goes that its first appearhome. wishes all our readers him, it was decided to use a ance, visible ‘in the east’ before The last time the blowpipe to give it an injecand clients a very sunrise, began the three Magis’ so-called ‘great tion to reduce any infection journey to Bethlehem. conjunction’ ocMerry Christmas and caused by the injury. The final showing took place on Decurred is believed hopefully a happier Oceanografic Valencia cucember 5, just as they arrived to meet to have been in rator Jose Luis Crespo said: New Year ahead. with King Herod in Judea. 1623. The galactic won“We are still hopeful of trying Herod was the king who gave orders to find der was seen by the majoriWe are out again on to capture the seal as we need the baby Jesus. ty of planet Earth in 1226. January 14 to make sure it recovers.”

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