Olive Press Costa Blanca North and Valencia Issue 131

British couple - one a ‘lord’ - are accused of running an illegal brothel network in Spain

A BRITISH couple have been arrested for allegedly running a prostitution ring in Spain - after being prosecuted for the SAME crime in the UK.

Lord Neil Lock and Natalie Lock, both 43, are awaiting extradition accused of human trafficking and money laundering, the Olive Press can reveal.

The pair, who have four children all living in Spain, are currently being held in separate Madrid prisons.

Sources told this paper the Scottish couple are accused of operating the sex ring from Madrid and previously Alicante and Granada.

It comes 14 years after they raked in almost half a million pounds from their illegal escort business in Britain, for which they were convicted.

The family moved to Spain after Neil was discharged from prison. The couple quickly launched various businesses around the country, managing phone lines for prostitutes offering sex.

It is understood they did the same for punters in the UK, where they are now facing extradition.

The pair are understood to have

By Laurence Dollimore

been operating the businesses since moving to Baza, in inland Granada, in 2015, after Lock got out of prison.

A local Spaniard told the Olive Press: “They had a huge house encircled by mafia-style walls and a big steel gate.

“There were also several outbuildings which they converted into offices for the business, where they would be answering phones on behalf of the call girls. They were effectively their agents or pimps.”

He claimed they employed various expats and locals to man the phones.

He added: “When things got too hot in Baza, they moved to Madrid, via Alicante, I believe.

Huge

“They now have a huge home on the outskirts of the capital, near the mountains.”

Photos from social media show the family enjoying life on the Costa Blanca.

EXCLUSIVE

As missing Madeleine McCann would have reached 21 this week - and it’s 17 years since she was abducted in Portugal - the Olive Press painstakingly traces the movements of her likely German expat abductor around southern Spain and the Algarve in May 2007

See page 6

couple’s sons regularly posted pictures of himself taking in the sights of Elche, in Alicante, on his Instagram account.

More recently the family, including mother Natalie and father Neil, have been sharing updates from their life in Madrid.

They can be seen supporting the

LORD OF THE RING

local football team Atletico and wining and dining in top restaurants - plus enjoying luxury holidays abroad. They are said to have moved from Baza after ‘upsetting the locals by flashing their cash and showing off their lavish lifestyle’, including ‘pool parties, hog roasts and magicians’.

The local added: “Too many people started asking questions about how they made their money.”

The husband and wife hit the headlines in 2010 after it emerged they had hired a police officer as a call girl.

WPC Victoria Thorne was rumbled after she was found being advertised as ‘Kelly’ on the couple’s ‘Notorious Girls’ website. Neil also recruited her as an informant to supply inside information on his competitors and circle of prostitutes.

At trial, Newcastle Crown Court heard the Locks had made £447,804 (€520,274) from the prostitution ring but not all of it could be recouped because much of it had been spent.

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, Neil was ordered to return just £43,826 (€50,921) while his wife, due to a lack of assets, had to pay a token £1.

The pair admitted conspiracy to control prostitution for gain and conspiracy to manage brothels while Thorne pleaded guilty to misconduct in a public office.

Neil also pleaded guilty to possessing a shotgun without a certificate and possession of liquid Ecstasy.

Throughout 2021, one of the while Natalie received a suspended sentence.

Neil was jailed for four years

Inmates

A spokesperson from Spain’s prison service said it was unable to comment on specific inmates due to ‘data protection laws’.

The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) confirmed the case and referred us to West Midlands police, who were handling the investigation.

A spokesperson for the force said: “As the two arrested in Spain have not yet been charged, we cannot confirm names. We are awaiting extradition.”

CHEERS: Natalie and Neil Lock enjoyed pool parties, hog roasts and magical entertainment as they splashed the cash

Rapist sentenced

A man has been jailed for 12 years after climbing up to the second floor of a Benidorm apartment and raping a woman who knew had been injured in an accident.

Multiple thefts

SIX people who lived in three squats have been arrested for committing 36 shop robberies this year in Villajoyosa.

Brighter lights

VALENCIA city is replacing 70% of its traffic lights over the next four years to include energy efficient bulbs that are brighter than the current ones.

Gas galore

TWO Spaniards have been accused of stealing 203 butano cylinders valued at €9,000 from petrol stations in the Valencia and Castellon areas.

CLEAN GETAWAY

Shocking delay sees arrest warrant for Dutch mafia boss 'Taxi' issued THREE WEEKS after he escaped authorities in Spain

THE Spanish courts which allowed one of Europe’s most wanted mafia leaders to skip bail did not issue an arrest warrant for him till three weeks later.

The arrest of Karim Bouyakhrichan, the leader of Holland’s feared ‘Mocro mafia’, in January was seen as a major coup for Spanish law enforcement.

But a sequence of blunders has seen him not only escape, but given a three week head start on cops trying to bring him back in.

The Dutch-Moroccan was

POLICE have removed 229 Moorish turtles that were being kept illegally on a farm - the largest turtle seizure of its kind in Spain.

A 50-year-old Spanish man is being investigated for crimes against flora and fauna.

The Moorish turtle is listed as a protected species and cannot be kept domestically without a licence.

By Walter Finch

released on provisional bail on March 19, eight weeks after his arrest on January 25, with orders to regularly sign on at a Marbella court.

He initially signed in at Fuengirola and

then made just one trip to the court in Rincon de la Victoria on April 1. On his next ex-

GONE: Judicial errors let Bouyakhrichan escape, despite threats to Amalia of Orange

pected appearance on April 15 he failed to show.

Yet the shockingly inert Mar-

Illegal turtle farm

bella court only issued arrest warrants for him on May 7, over three weeks after his escape was known to them. They issued a European Arrest Warrant, and also put out an International Arrest Warrant in case he has fled to Morocco.

Dutch authorities had put in an extradition request for their public enemy number one at the time of his arrest, urging the Spanish courts to remand him in custody in the meantime.

As well as being an alleged cocaine kingpin, Bouyakhrichan made death threats towards the Netherlands’ Crown Princess, Amalia of Orange, when she was just 18.

Ironically, Amalia was taking refuge from the threats in Madrid until just a few months ago. She has since returned to Amsterdam.

Opinion Page 6

FOUR people have been arrested for assaulting and robbing old people in their Valencia homes.

Three Romanian brothers and a Bulgarian man - said to be the gang leader - were detained by the Guardia Civil as they planned to strike again. Two of the brothers are underage and are being kept in a juvenile detention centre while the two adults have been jailed.

The gang allegedly operated across areas in the south of the city and struck in the early morning after carefully choosing their vulnerable victimsoften who lived on their own.

Elderly targets COMING CLEAN

A LLIRIA man has confessed to 50 years of sexual abuse of minors - all members of his family.

The 69-year-old went, with his wife, to the Guardia Civil barracks in the town to make his shocking admission.

The assaults occurred on his granddaughter, a sister-in-law, a friend of his granddaughter, a sister, and a girl, eight, who is still a minor.

He was arrested and then jailed by a Lliria court as he faces several counts of sexual assault.

BECK’S VINTAGE CELEBRATION

TWO celebrity couples enjoyed a special birthday wine trip to a Valladolid vineyard to celebrate ex-footballer, and now club owner, David Beckham turning 49.

He travelled with his wife Victoria and close friends Gordon and Tana Ramsay on a private jet for some top notch wining and dining.

And David did not return empty handed - he was spotted

clutching a €1,000 bottle of Dominio de Pingus.

A source close to the group said: “David and Victoria have for many years enjoyed days out to vineyards with Gordon and Tana. It is kind of their thing.”

Meanwhile Victoria, who turned 50 last month, was seen without crutches for the first time after she broke her foot on Valentine’s Day.

A star is born

Expat family in Marbella are ‘so proud’ after their young daughter wows judges on The Voice Kids in Spain

A YOUNG British expat from Marbella has wowed judges on The Voice Kids Spain, making her family ‘so proud’. Carmen Holden was just 11 when she stepped out onto the La Voz Kids stage.

The British expat moved to Marbella when she was a toddler and her home has always been full of music.

“Don’t let my name fool you, I’m Scottish” she proudly said in the episode:

“We like to listen to music a lot at home,” she continued.

“My dad sings and my broth-

EXCLUSIVE

By Yzabelle Bostyn

er plays guitar. We’ve tried to make a band and we’ve written songs. It’s great.”

With music in her blood, Carmen claims many people have told her she has ‘a special voice’.

She was often encouraged to sign up to The Voice but ‘never thought she’d actually be able to do it’.

However, Carmen, now 12, fought back her ‘nerves’, saying: “I’m nervous but excited to go out and sing.

“For me, The Voice Kids is just a game, whatever happens, the most important thing is to enjoy it.”

She sang a heart wrenching rendition of Always Remember Us This Way, by Lady Gaga.

Impressive

The song was featured in the acclaimed film, A Star is Born and includes some impressive notes.

It was one of these that made Spanish pop star, Lola Indigo, push her big red button and sign Carmen up to her team.

After congratulating Carmen and giving her a hug, Lola shared her surprise at seeing someone so young.

TWO giant pandas have arrived on a flight from China, and are settling into their new home at Madrid Zoo. Jin Xi and Zhu Yu travelled in specially-prepared transport cages loaded with fresh bamboo and bamboo shoots. The public will have to wait before meeting the new arrivals, with this month set aside to ensure the couple are in good health. They replace Hua Zui Ba, 20, and Bing Xing, 23, who left Madrid to return to Chengdu in late February, having been there since 2007.

In the past decade, they have had three offspring: Chulina, 7, and twins You You and Jiu Jiu, 2, who have also gone to been part of China’s consertion programme for more than 40 years, hosting Chu Lin, the first panda born in captivity in Europe, for 14 years at Madrid Zoo in the 80s and 90s.

She said:

“You did really well, there were little things to improve, but to me it’s not important

because you’re still so young.

“When I turned and saw you, so small, I thought ‘this can’t be right’..but now you’re with me, next time, no nerves, calm, with me by your side we’ll go forward and just enjoy it.”

The pair broke out in ‘happy’ tears, according to Lola: “I was very happy when I saw her because she is so cute, sweet and excited.”

Meanwhile, Pop Flamenco artist Rosario Flores praised Carmen, saying: “You don’t know how good your voice is! I was about to turn around but when Lola turned, I knew I couldn’t steal you from her!”

In between many ‘thank yous’, Carmen managed to say: “I’ve seen you all on TV so to see you now is incredible.”

Singer David Bisbal then asked Carmen where she was from.

Upon hearing she was from Marbella, he exclaimed:

the

actor

went retro in a dress created by the Balenciaga luxury fashion house founded 105 years ago in San Sebastian. The theme of the Met evening was The Garden of Time with floral pieces worn by many of the visitors.

But Balenciaga designer, Demna, was more in-

in

Every guest

by the

It was

- like

by

“Enjoying Andalucia, you’ve chosen a spectacular place to live.”

Her new coach, Lola, inaugurated Carmen into her team, giving her an Equipo Lola bracelet.

Carmen is a great fit for the singer and dancer, also known as Miriam Doblas Muñoz.

The expat loves Hip Hop dancing and is part of a troupe at Fuego Dance, Fuengirola.

Speaking to the Olive Press, Carmen’s mum Angela Lafferty, said: “We are so, so proud of her for being so brave. Seeing her walk out on that stage alone was so nerve-wracking for us, but she is a brave little girl and she has always loved singing, so she was determined to do it.

“It’s also great for her as an expat to be part of something Spanish, to feel like she belongs to this country.”

AUSTRALIAN

Nicole Kidman went Spanish to dazzle visitors to

annual Met Gala in New York. Kidman

terested

exploiting the ‘time’ element.

dressed in Balenciaga wore something inspired

past

Nicole Kidman’s gown.

inspired

a Cristobal Balenciaga Haute Couture piece from 1951, with tiers of feathered details.

IN THE BLOOD: Carmen Holden’s dad and brother are also musicians

HUG: Lola

Indigo chose Carmen for her team

PAIR OF PANDAS: Jin and Zhu from China

CHILDREN have been stopped from using mobile phones in all Valencian Community schools.

The measure means devices have to be completely switched off inside school areas and not used until the end of the school day. Only two exceptions are allowed under the new rules from the Valencian Ministry of Education

Phones can be used under teacher supervision if they are part of a course or if a child needs them because of health issues.

It will be down to individual schools and colleges to decide on punishments for students who flout the ban. A similar ban already exists in Murcia.

“Experts have been listened to and we know that the indiscriminate use of phones without supervision can cause difficulties in learning and coexistence,” said Education Minister, Jose Antonio Rovira.

JUMPING FOR JOY

SINGING legend Sir Tom Jones will be performing at the Valencia Bullring on Sunday, June 23, starting at 10pm.

Sir Tom, 83, has wowed fans down the decades and a new generation in Britain has enjoyed him as a mentor on the UK version of The Voice.

Solar farm opponents stage Alicante demo against 200 hectare plant

By Alex Trelinski

A LOCAL wildlife enthusiast captured a series of incredible images off the coast of Spain’s Torrevieja this Monday, as a pod of bottlenose dolphins jumped for joy in the Mediterranean waters.

A unique show is promised with his unmistakable voice mixed in with his charisma and magnetism plus his unmatched stage energy. His 2021 album, Surrounded By Time, made him the oldest man to get the number one spot on the UK Official Albums Chart for an bum of new songs. Tickets for Sir Tom's Valencia concert are now available through Ticketmaster and tickets. com

OVER 300 San Miguel de Salinas residents took to the streets to protest against plans for a giant solar farm on prime agricultural land used by fruit growers.

The proposed solar farm on the Campo de Salinas would occupy 200 hectares of farmland between the San Miguel town centre and the Torrevieja lagoon. It would supply power to an expanded Torrevieja water desalination plant which is aiming to increase production by a third.

An environmental impact study looking at changes to the desalination works states that it is not necessary to install an additional electrical supply system. That has been seized on by opponents, though the main aim of the solar farm is to reduce the cost of electricity.

The protestors gathered in front of the Government sub-delegation building on Alicante’s Plaza de la Montañeta.

The demonstration was led by the San Miguel Arcangel neighbourhood association and local councillors, including the mayor, Juan de Dios Fresneda.

The local authority supplied a fleet of buses for the 70 kilometre journey to the provincial capital. It’s claimed that around 10,000 trees - mainly producing citrus fruits - would be destroyed for the project.

The pictures, snapped by Juan Carlos, were shared on X (formerly Twitter) via the account for Proyecto Mastral, a project that provides information about the weather and climatic conditions in the area.

It is not unusual to see dolphins in the waters off the Vega Baja but it is by no means an everyday occurrence, according to local media.

Clouded over

Plans for massive solar farms in the region have been causing controversy for years.

A mega-project of 12,000 panels on 300 hectares between Los Montesinos and Torrevieja was turned down last year because of its proximity to a natural park. There have been a series of protests across Alicante at the prospect of mega solar farms, with 180 planned for the province alone. Iberdrola, world leader in

the renewable energy sector, has plans for three photovoltaic projects in the Valencia region which will have a capacity of 450 megawatts and represent an investment of €235 million. They plan to build two solar plants in Valle de Ayora-Cofrentes, and a third 50 megawatt facility in the La Encina district in Villena.

A DUTCH tourist has thanked the police for saving his life after collapsing inside an El Campello shop.

He also wants to meet the heroic Policia Local officers after ICU doctors told him it was down to them that he’s still alive.

The holidaymaker was inside a Calle Muro store when he lost consciousness.

A police patrol promptly appeared and found he had no pulse and was unresponsive. Officers gave him CPR and used a defibrillator that they kept in their car until medics arrived.

His condition stabilised after 90 minutes and as paramedics took him to the ambulance, onlookers went into spontaneous applause.

The Dutch national has fully recovered after spending over a month in hospital and has arranged a meeting with the life-saving police officers to pass on his gratitude.

FORECASTERS are predicting the hot and dry weather to continue through the rest of spring in Alicante province.

The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) says that, based on medium-range forecasts from European and American observatories, it will be warmer than normal. There means little change to drought conditions which continued through a mild winter. Climate expert, Professor Jorge Olcina, from the University of Alicante said that the picture was ‘not very optimistic’.

He said that, barring an occasional storm, there will be no significant rain to relieve the drought.

Though domestic water supplies are guaranteed until the autumn, Olcina has called for care in summer water usage which sees the highest demands of the year from farming and tourism.

Reservoirs supplying Alicante province currently stand at around 25% of capacity.

By P OO LVILLAS

DÉNIA

UP IN ARMS: Protestors took to the streets against the massive solar farm

CAPTION

CLOSE TO SHORE: The dolphins off the Costa Blanca

VALENCIA city council will spend €450,000 on a war against pigeons and starlings.

A contract has been advertised for a company to use air cannons to scare away flocks of starlings, while net-launching cannons will capture pigeons in up to eight areas of the city.

Pigeons carry up to 40 diseases and 60 parasites like lice and ticks, according to the tender document.

Traps

An industrial-sized machine with a compressed air system will capture the pigeons, with birds tempted in by food. The winning bidder will capture them before taking them to sparsely populated municipal urban dovecotes or to rural pigeon lofts across the Valencian region.

Air cannons will be used to scare away starlings, and a study will be carried out to work out their numbers and where they cause the most complaints.

MOTHER’S GRIEF

A GRIEVING chimpanzee at the Valencia Bioparc is still carrying the body of her baby three months after the young chimp died. Natalia gave birth at the start of February but the baby died two weeks later. Bioparc visitors have been shocked to see the

Great Spot

mum still holding the youngster but experts say the mourning phase has to be respected.

“This is a species where social bonds and group cohesion are critical, so all members are affected by these sad events,” said Bioparc Valencia's technical director of animals, Loles Carbonell.

“Little by little they come to terms with reality and loss.”

Billionaire Spotify founder seals deal on €30m villa in Spanish hideaway

DANIEL Ek has officially snapped up a €30 million villa in Spain the Olive Press can reveal.

The Spotify billionaire, 41, bought the amazing home just yards from Marbella’s best

FRIDGE TRAGEDY

EXCLUSIVE

FIT FOR A BILLIONAIRE:

By Laurence Dollimore

beach from a British owner.

The Swedish tycoon made the decision after spending months shopping for homes

FORENSIC experts believe a fridge gas leak was the most likely cause of February's apartment block fire in Valencia’s Campanar district that claimed 10 lives. The blaze started in the kitchen of an eighth floor apartment in the 12-storey block, with all 138 homes destroyed.

Policia Nacional scientists have concluded that the probable cause was the igniting of highly flammable isobutane gas that had leaked from a Beko refrigerator.

DELAYS in getting vehicle ITV test appointments in the Valencia region are set to be eased with the recruitment of 250 extra staff. Motorists have complained about being unable to get a suitable and prompt time at a local test station ever since the service became publicly managed in February 2023. Waiting lists lasting several months bedevilled ITV stations in busy areas and especially during the summer, forcing people to travel substantial distances for a test at a relatively-quiet centre Industry Ministry, Nuria Montes, says her shock plan will extend opening hours and free up more appointments.

between Benahavis and Marbella on the Costa del Sol.

The sprawling property in the exclusive Santa Margarita urbanisation is just metres from the iconic Marbella Club on the celebrated ‘Golden Mile’.

A source close to the public notary told the Olive Press:

“He put down 5% last month and completed last week.

“It’s a great deal for an amazing and unique home on Marbella’s famous Golden Mile.

“I can’t tell you exactly how much it went for but it was over €30 million.”

He added: “He’s a great addition to Marbella and there are plenty of other big fish circling around to buy this summer.”

The home was owned by a British businessman from the north of England. It sits on a plot of more than 4,000sqm and boasts incredible sea views.

The house itself is spread over 1,500sqm and has two floors and a basement level, plus a heated outdoor swimming pool and cinema room.

There is also a bar, eight bedrooms and bathrooms and an impressive garden.

THREE tents were found by the Valencia Policia Local in the Albufera natural park during an operation against illegal camping. Officers told the unwelcome stayers to move on, after they were sighted. Authorities say irresponsible actions by campers threaten local biodiversity and the area’s unique ecosystem. Valencia’s police councillor, Jesus Carbonell, said: “It is essential to stop this camping with the Policia Local working hard in that regard.” Signs have been recently erected making it clear that camping is prohibited in the protected area.

Doors open: 20:00h | Concert starts: 22:00h Sunday 23rd June

The home bought by Spotify founder Daniel Ek (left)

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.

OPINION

Laughing stock

THE justice system in Andalucia risks becoming a laughing stock after the latest succession of headline-grabbing failures (Clean getaway, p2).

First, a highly dangerous boss of the Dutch mafia is released on bail - despite requests from the Netherlands to keep him locked up ahead of extradition.

Then - shock horror - he fails to turn up to his mandated court appearance and is officially declared on the run.

But the humiliation doesn’t end there, after it emerged this week that an official arrest warrant was not issued until three weeks later.

Either someone is being paid to be conveniently useless, or the incompetence is genuine - and we are not sure which is worse!

The Netherlands were rightly furious, particularly given that Karim Bouyakhrichan’s gang had made several threats against the life of the Dutch crown princess.

As if the authorities were not red faced enough, another embarrassing episode was waiting around the corner.

Police caused somewhat of a media frenzy when they announced that the British and Irish gangsters accused of shooting up a restaurant in Marbella had also failed to turn up to a mandated appointment at a police station (see Olive Press Online). However, there had been yet another lapse in communication.

The appointment was for them to hand over their passports - which was made rather difficult given that the police already had them!

The lads handed themselves in the next day after seeing the widespread media reports suggesting they had done a runner.

It’s a rather worrying litany of errors that leaves residents wondering who - if anyone - is in charge at police HQ.

Let’s hope they get their act together as the summer season approaches, because lord knows they’re going to be kept busy.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es

Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es

Humenyuk Makarova (+34) 951 154 841 admin@theolivepress.es

Simon Hunter simon@theolivepress.es

Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es

Ben Pawlowski ben@theolivepress.es

Héctor Santaella (+34) 658 750 424 accounts@ theolivepress.es

THE DRIFTER

As the trial of Maddie suspect Christian Brueckner starts again in Germany this week, JON CLARKE traces his suspicious movements through Spain and Portugal in May 2007

MADELEINE McCann suspect Christian Brueckner stayed in at least half a dozen places around the Algarve and Spain in the month before the British toddler went missing.

The dangerous drifter had at least one trip to Andalucia in May 2007, as well as many nights spent on three beaches near Praia da Luz, where Maddie vanished this month, 17 years ago.

In an in-depth investigation, the Olive Press has established the German sex offender also parked his distinctive white and yellow VW camper van (below) at a 'hippy travellers camp', an isolated lake and two inland villages on the Algarve.

Talking to a series of close friends and contacts, who spent time with the German pae-

theolivepress.es

dophile, 47, that Spring, we pieced together a forensic picture of his movements.

Above all, we have established Bruecknerwho is currently on trial for five other sex offences committed in Portugal - was 'constantly on the move'.

"He was bobbing around here, there and everywhere and was completely up to no good, in particular selling drugs," revealed Ken Ralphs, a British traveller, who was living on various beaches near Praia da Luz at the time.

"I was also moving around up and down the coast doing satellite TV installations for van-lifers and kept seeing his yellow and white van.

"He never stayed anywhere for long and always parked up away from the main groups, usually out of sight of the police.

"He was a shady guy, who we all knew to keep at arm's length."

We can reveal how he stayed at a trio of beaches West of the popular Algarve resort,

DON’T PANIC!

Iwhere the McCanns were holidaying with friends.

They included Praia da Boca do Rio, Praia Amado, in Carrapateira, and Praia de Barranco, where German police released a photo of his distinctive VW Westfalia van parked up, in June 2020, when they announced he was the ‘prime suspect’ in the abduction.

In particular, Brueckner liked staying up on the ‘ledges’ at Boca do Rio, which sat on cliffs between the stunning pristine beach and nearby village of Zalema, reached via a steep dirt track. German police are certain he was here on April 7, 2007, the day a young girl, 10, was groped by a man with blonde scruffy hair and blue eyes on Zalema Beach.

Joana E, now 27, and her parents will tell Braunschweig court this month that the attacker was Brueckner and he was naked apart

Marbella, the ‘Global HQ for organised crime’ is still safe despite the recent shootings - UNLESS you want to become a drug lord, writes long time resident Laurence Dollimore

F you happened to pick up the Sunday Times last week, you may have spotted an article declaring Marbella the epicentre of the ‘Costa del Globalised Crime’.

The piece by senior journalist Matthew Campbell brands the tourism hotspot as the ‘global headquarters’ for a ‘multinational array of organised criminal gangs.’

He cites the more than 100 mafia gangs from 59 different countries that operate there, and he’s not wrong; it would be foolish to deny the existence of these criminal gangs.

But they are hardly anything new.

As told in the recently released popular crime drama Marbella on Movistar+ gangsters have roamed the Costa del Sol and nearby Costa Blanca for decades.

The fact is the strategic location of the Spanish costas means they will always be a major entry point for drugs, particularly cocaine from South America and hashish from Morocco.

The sheer amount of product being sent via containers to the port of Algeciras and via ‘narco’ speed boats up and down the coastline has never ceased.

operations - with just 10 containers filled with cocaine seized in Algeciras port in 2022.

For reference, the port manages around four million containers per year.

The story is repeated across Spain, with just 2% of containers being searched in Barcelona and a similar amount in Valencia and Bilbao.

While the recent shootings - officially five, although we can reveal there may have been be as many as a dozen this year - can be worrying, it’s important to stress the gangsters are not targeting innocent civilians. Indeed, almost every time it happens, it is either a direct attack on a rival gang or just sending a message.

No one innocent has been seriously hurt in any of the reported incidents so far this year.

And they are a far cry from the days of the Kinahans in the early 2000s - which saw deadly shootouts on the streets of the Costa del Sol.

And the only place which has seen a big increase over recent years is on the Algarve of Portugal, and that’s our next door neighbour. Drug traffickers have long been able to pay off police and border officials - who have some of the lowest salaries in Europe.

Meanwhile the constantly high volume of contraband being transported makes it impossible to make a meaningful dent in their

But even then, very few innocent bystanders were killed.

Or even six years ago, when Colombians assassinated a man outside a church in Marbella’s San Pedro.

Even then, it was understood that the victim had become involved in organised crime and had amassed a huge debt with a mafia.

So no, you are not going to be shot if you visit or move to Marbella - unless you want to

start trafficking drugs. I certainly feel more safe here than I did when I lived in London. And neither my News Editor colleague, Dilip, or the editor Jon Clarke, who’s lived in or around Marbella for two decades, has ever seen a violent incident or been attacked. Even robbed. When comparing, say Manchester or Stockholm to Marbella, I certainly feel far safer walking home alone late at night. You never get the feeling of being attacked or stabbed in a dodgy area, nor be worried of something kicking off on the bus or at a bar. And that’s even on second line Puerto Banus late on a Friday night. Meanwhile, authorities are fighting back by putting more officers on the streets and increasing their surveillance via drones and canines.

This week alone, we have seen five men lying on the ground outside Aldi at police gunpoint, roadblocks at more than half a dozen places and a raid with a helicopter at a padel club. The country’s best trained detectives are also now starting to tackle the scourge of police corruption.

On the Costa del Sol, a secret, plain-clothed

HEADLINES: Recent arrests hit the news, but the reality is not so grim

VANLIFERS: Ken Ralphs (far right) with hippies on Barranco beach and (right) his van on the same beach

Three beaches in Valencia awarded the prestigious blue flag for first time

By Alex Trelinski

THE Valencian Community once again has the highest number of blue flag beaches and marinas in Spain - six more than last year - totalling 159, three ahead of Andalucia. Blue flags acknowledge beach quality and are awarded every May by an international jury appointed by the Association of

Life’s a beach

Environmental and Consumer Education. Two areas in Valencia province and one in Alicante province will be flying the blue flag for the

GREEN ACCELERATION

SALES have surged for green alternatives in Spain’s motor industry.

Between January and March this year, 244,879 new cars have been sold in Spain, some 3.1% more than the same period last year.

The first months of 2024 have seen hybrids explode in popularity, with 89,675 sold so far.

This represents a 22.59% growth compared to 2023, showing a growing preference for hybrid vehicles.

Plug-in hybrids were also sought-after, with 15,843 units sold in the first three months of the year, a 5.92% increase compared to 2023.

They now account for 5.41% of the cars in Spain.

In comparison, sales of electric cars have not fared so well.

Some 13,420 electric cars have been sold, a 3.3% increase compared to 2023.

Now, electric cars represent 4.58% of Spain’s total vehicles.

So far this year, the most popular motors are: Dacia Sandero, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson and Seat Arona.

de

rina at Pobla de Farnals, Rabdells in Oliva, and Dels Torres in Villajoyosa. Two beaches that lost the coveted award last year in Valencia province have been restored, namely the main beach at Pobla de Farnals and Arbre del Gos.

In Alicante province, Benidorm gets its flags back at Levante and Mal Pas after withdrawing from consideration due to environmental issues, leaving Poniente beach still flagless.

Going for hydrogen

GERMANY’S Thyssenkrupp Nucera has been chosen as the preferred supplier of electrolysers for the first phase of a 1GW green hydrogen plant at oil giant Cepsa’s La Rabida refinery.

The company will initially come up with an engineering package for the plant, using up to 15 of its 20MW alkaline electrolysers.

The decision was announced at the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam on Monday. Cepsa plans to spend €3 billion on 1GW of green hydrogen production capacity in Huelva, plus another 1GW at its San Roque refinery in Cadiz.

Also back are Les Deveses beach at Denia and La Er-

very first time in 2024. They are Pobla Mamita at Santa Pola.

La Ermita won a flag for the first time in 2021 but lost it last year. Meanwhile Les Deveses was undertaking pipe work and regeneration in 2023 which ruled it out of contention.

The aim is to ship its renewable hydrogen as ammonia to ports in Northern Europe, with it being converted back to hydrogen once delivered. Green hydrogen is seen as a potential game-changer in decarbonising the heavy vehicle and shipping sectors, as well as a way of ‘storing’ renewable energy.

Credit: Diputación

Granada

POBLA MARINA

RABDELLS

DELS TORRES

Moraira

By Kimberley Mannion

status as a popular tourist destination. Moraira has about 10,000 residents, with the number more than tripling to 36,000 in the summer. Restaurateur Honorato Ibanez, 62, explained why the town has kept its charm despite the Summer influx of visitors. He said: “The peace here is the main thing. It’s just cortijos and campo. There is almost no stress and there are not even traffic lights.”

CHARM AND CALM

ges. In particular in the demographics of the types of foreigners who came to settle here.

“Originally there were loads of Germans alongside the British, but the Brits, by far our preferred customers, really started to dominate.

“Today there are plenty, but now we also have many Dutch and Belgians and generally a nice all round mix.”

While this changes a bit in the summer when the hordes do at times descend, the town always maintains its old school Spanish charm and picture perfect traditional feel.

“It is such a beautiful place to live. Every morning I have the

It is 35 years since he moved here from his native Granada and he has seen some chan-

“I cannot think of anywhere else I would ra-

Much of Moraira’s charm comes from the stunning coves and fascinating 18th century watchtowers

privilege of a commute to the office via the stunning coast road, and every day it puts a smile on my face, even in the winter weather,” explains Helen Tye, of C&C Properties.

ther be. It’s a wonderful place for children to grow up, it has a great community, and it is unbelievably pretty. Close enough to the airport for people to visit, but small and friendly with lovely beaches and lots of restaurants.”

While a great choice for a family beach holiday, there is still plenty to see beyond its beautiful beaches.

For most tourists, the Cap D’Or watchtower (right) is among the top attractions.

Dating back to the 16th and 18th century, the structure served as a

defence against attacks from Berber pirates, and in a chain of watchtowers working together to warn each other of incoming offensives. Today, the tower is more commonly used

From front

BEAUTY:

for enjoying the stunning views it offers of the Moraira coastline than looking out for pirates.

From the top, you can see the harbour, beaches, and Penyal d’Ifac Natural Park, as well as the gorgeous shades of blue of the Mediterranean.

The watchtower can be accessed by a fairly easy hike from Portet beach, one of the most popular playas. You will find a marked footpath leading up to it from the end of Calle Puerto de Alcudia.

Another place to enjoy the area’s nature up close is at the Marjar del Senillar nature reserve, located next to l’Ampolla beach.

The site was given nature reserve status in 2004 and its several lagoons are home to many species of plants and animals, some of which are in danger of extinction.

important sectors in the region’s economy, and the Fishermen’s Guild of Moraira, founded in 1929, is still going strong.

Unsurprisingly, restaurants in the vicinity boast excellent fresh seafood, courtesy of the local fishermen. Being located on the Mediterranean coast also makes Moraira an ideal retreat for lovers of watersports. It’s possible to rent kayaks and paddleboards at the most popular beaches, and at the marina.

Moraira’s Mediterranean coast is ideal for lovers of watersports

Slightly outside of Moraira and only accessible by boat, though well worth the trip, are the Caves of Les Rates, a site which was also declared a protected reserve in 2004. The caves are home to historic artefacts from the Bronze Age, along with several species of bats. Visits are not encouraged between the months of April and August when the bats are breeding.

Ifach Golf Course, a friendly, International Club, offering magnificent views set in an idyllic location. A perfect combination of nature and sport with 9 holes of 6 par 3’s and 3 par 4’s.

Urbanización San Jaime, Calle Micheta, 5, Benissa (Alicante) info@golfifach.com +34 966 49 71 14 www.golfifach.com

Best of all is the area’s snorkelling and thanks to clear water, you’ll see plenty of fish and starfish and beautiful rock formations without having to plunge in too deeply.

Moraira’s busiest beach is Playa de l’Ampolla, thanks to its location next to the town centre.

Every good coastal town needs a good marina and Moraira is no exception. With a yacht club in addition to a fishing port, Moraira accommodates all seafarers, whether weighing anchor for work or pleasure.

Fishing continues to be one of the most

The next most popular is Playa el Portet, a blue flag beach and considered one of Costa Blanca’s very best. At the other end of the scale, if you are looking for a more secluded spot, try Llebeig Cove, one of many small coves carved into the cliffs along the Costa Blanca’s breathtaking coastline. If all that is not enough to keep you entertained, its prime location makes it an ideal base for day trips to nearby Javea and the inland Xalon valley, as well as the bigger cities of Alicante and Valencia.

And there are always the fleshpots of Benidorm if you’re looking for that one off wild night out! But probably you’ll be happy just hanging out in Moraira.

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BEACH LIFE !

Tough work but someone has to do it: Kimberley Mannion checks out all the many coves and beaches in Moraira and picks seven of the best

THERE is much more to see in and around Moraira than sea and sand, but it is still the perfect place for a beach holiday. From busy beaches with watersports and tourist activities, toilets and lifeguards, and easy access to bars and restaurants, to private and peaceful little coves tucked into enclaves along the towering cliffs outside the centre, Moraira really does offer the full range of beach experiences. If you are driving or, especially, hiking to one of the more remote hidden gems, do remember to take everything you need with you and leave nothing behind.

BRILLIANT for keen swimmers, Cap Blanc’s secluded location ensures that it remains something of a secret treasure. There is a diving jetty, and a ladder to use to get in and out of the sea, a rocky beach, incredibly clear water, and stunning views across to Calpe - what more could you need? The beach is accessed from the coastal road, through pine forests. If you are driving, you’ll be able to park at the top of the bay and take the steps down the cliff.

GIVEN its location next to the town centre and close to the castle, Ampolla is inevitably Moraira’s busiest beach. But the fact that it’s a good beach – gently shelving, family friendly and with a coveted blue flag and full services – is another reason people choose it. This beach really has something for everyone, from sun loungers available for hire for those who want to do nothing, to volleyball nets and a children’s playground for the more energetic.

PLAYA DE L’AMPOLLA

CAP BLANC BAY

second busiest beach also has a blue flag. El Portet is smaller and picture perfect, with its unusual

around

beach cur-

clear water. A promenade flanked by palm

PLAYA EL PORTET

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trees runs along its length, connecting beach-goers to shops, tapas bars and restaurants with sea views, so you can really set yourself up here for the day.

LLEBEIG COVE

TUCKED away, and off the regular tourist trail is Llebeig Cove. Much harder to reach than Moraira’s two central beaches, you’ll need to hike a trail from neighbouring coves, or arrive by sea in a boat or kayak. The hassle of getting there is well worth it to see the hidden gem. The small idyllic cove feels like a private slice of paradise. Aside from a few old fishermen’s houses, there is nothing here but nature, so take what you need, including shade and water.

Continues on next page

The Yorkshire Linen Company in Jávea and Altea opened their doors over 16 years ago. Whether it’s a complete transformation of your home, your rental(s) or just some finishing touches needed, there is a huge range of fabrics and textiles in a wide variety of colours and patterns to choose from. Bed linen, mattress and pillow protectors, bath and beach towels, cushions and pillows are just some of the products that we always have in stock.

SOFA BEDS

Apart from quality mattresses and bases they also sell sofa beds which are ideal for guests and optimising your living space. These include an Italian opening system with 5 years warranty, recycled and stain-resistant fabric and 2 pillow function cushions.

CURTAIN POWER

All curtains are really useful for all sorts of reasons and they have a huge selec-

tion of UK curtains to choose from. They also have an in-house seamstress service available to make sure your curtains hang perfectly.

But apart from adding atmosphere to a room, there are weather reasons for choosing the right curtains. For example, if it’s windy outside heat loss from the home will increase. If it’s raining, that loss goes up. But if it’s windy and raining, expect a massive heat loss. Black out curtains all year round have proven to be excellent on energy saving (and keeping your house cool during the warm months). Open curtains on bright, sunny days to let the sun’s natural heat filter through your windows and close them on overcast days and always at night.

FROM OUTDOORS TO INDOORS

For bedrooms, kitchens, livingrooms, bathrooms, studies and terraces their prices will please all home loving bargain hunters as well as those looking for a more luxurious finish. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff in both shops shops will always assist you in every way they can.

Everything You Need To Dress Your Home ALL

UNDER ONE ROOF

Yorkshire Linen has everything to dress your home or rental and to suit all budgets. Every month we receive new collections in our shops in Jávea and Altea. Fitted sheets, duvets, pillows, cushions, made-to-measure curtains (in-house seamstress service available), blinds, bath and beach towels, mattress and pillow protectors and so much more! Our sofa beds include an Italian opening system with a 5 year warranty with recycled and stain-resistant fabric. Our knowledgable, multi-lingual staff are ready to help you in any way they can.

Come and get inspired! yorkshirelinencostablanca.com

MORAIRA’S

horseshoe-shaped

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stunning turquoise

Centro Comercial Montgó

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LIKE many of those who end up living in Spain, it was after enjoying a holiday with friends on the Mediterranean coast that Jennifer took the decision to relocate from North London to sunnier climes for a quieter life. But the move gave Jennifer a new lease of life and with it the realisation that she wasn’t quite ready to retire.

Instead she started up what has become one of the most successful expat businesses in Spain. With one of the highest densities of foreign residents in Spain, Murcia and the Costa Blanca were crying out for someone to design special insurance packages for the expat market and the business thrived.

What began with one small office in Javea has now grown to seven branches locally and one over in Lanzarote.

Initially the La Marina branch of Jennifer Cunningham Insurance opened in 2007 followed by another in Benijofar before she expanded further south along the coast to ensure all the major expat communities were covered.

At the same time as she set up business, Jennifer set about doing something that really mattered to her on a personal level.

She created a hospice charity that offers invaluable support to the terminally ill and their families among the expat community.

The charity is very close to her heart as she set it up following the death

Moraira

A COMBINATION of both rocks and sand, Platgetes beach is a sandy bay sandwiched between blocks of rock, with rock pools where it is possible to swim. Or if you prefer, you can stick to the shallow waters of the sandy bay. Slightly out from Moraira centre, Platgetes is a popular spot amongst locals for a quick dip.

ANOTHER beach with Blue Flag status, Andrago is a pebbled beach balanced out with crystal clear waters. A little promenade overlooking the beach also offers spectacular views of the coast. Playa L´Andrago restaurant on the beach serves traditional Spanish tapas and paella.

The caring touch

The businesswoman who founded a hospice charity that covers the costas

of her son Paul from cancer when he was only 33-years-old after witnessing the care he was given during his last days in a Sue Ryder hospice.

“They had taken such exceptional care of my son but on my return to Spain I looked around to see what would happen if someone was in the same circumstance here in Spain and discovered that there really wasn’t anything similar. People were simply being sent home to die to be cared for by their family, but what if that wasn’t possible?”

The realisation led her to set up the Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity, which is run thanks to volunteers and funded by donations.

“The community spirit has been key to making the charity a success,” explains Jennifer.

“We have found that local residents are very generous, offering lots of great stuff that we can sell to raise funds for our hospice work.”

Not only that, but over the years dozens of local businesses and community clubs have offered venues and hosted fundraising events from live music performances, lunches, raffles and dances.

Although fundraising efforts

ANOTHER quieter spot, this cove is similar to Llebeig, and carved out from the rocky cliffs of this amazing coastline. The beach is gravelly, but that means crystal clear waters and some of the best snorkelling in the area. Swimmers can explore a series of small natural caves called Cova del Arcs, adding a bit of adventure to a beach day as well as a great photo opportunity.

were paused during Covid, the charity managed to keep afloat and activities have once again returned to pre-pandemic levels.

These efforts enable the charity to provide free hospice care for people in their own home - those who are discharged from hospital once there is nothing more doctors can do for them.

“We supply the equipment needed for them to be cared for at home, such as a hospital bed, wheelchair and pressure mattress, as well as nurses to provide palliative care and give support to any family they may have,” explains Jennifer.

Over the last year alone, the charity and its team of 20 volunteers has helped more than 100 people by providing care at the end of life.

“The nurses are absolutely incredible. How they do it day and day after day I don’t know,” she added. “I admire them so much.” events efforts

MUCH MISSED: Jennifer’s son Paul inspired her charity from her La Marina base

For more information please visit www.jennifercunningham.net

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LITTLE remains of the old fishermen's homes that once made up Moraira, but these photos give a glimpse into the past.

The port and nearby scattering of huts and houses grew up to service the town of Teuludawhich retains administrative control of the village.

Although its historic role as a fishing village remains - a few boats still keep up the traditionthe days when the industry dominated the streets of Moraira have long gone.

Where once fishermen spread out their nets to repair now tourists walk.

A lifestyle that disappeared as cash flooded in

By Dilip Kuner

DELVING INTO THE PAST

Vines that made up the other main industry have disappeared from near the shore, (although they still grow in abundance higher up in the hills.

To preserve the heritage of the area, Teulada council passed laws protecting the abundant pine trees and limited the height of buildings, which has to a large

extent preserved the charm of Moraira.

Ramshackle

But the lifestyle shown in these pictures has long been consigned to the past - and probably

for the better. The influx of extranjeros and tourists with the money they bring have transformed the rough cobbled streets and ramshackle houses as wealth has seeped into the area.

GRAFT: Fixing nets and selling wares

DAYS GONE BY: The old fort and beachside homes

GOING SOLAR:Your top questions answered

MiSolar explains what you need to know about installing solar panels

SOLAR energy has been gaining popularity as an affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional electricity sources. But if you're considering going solar, you may have some questions about how it works, how much it costs, and what benefits you can expect.

In this article, we'll answer the top 10 questions people have about solar power, based on our expertise and experience in the industry.

Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or just curious about solar energy, read on to learn everything you need to know before making the switch to solar.

1 - HOW DO I KNOW WHAT SIZE SYSTEM I NEED?

Where possible, we like to start by looking at an electricity bill where we can see the last 12 month usage, combined with a discussion with you about your past and future energy needs. If a previous bill is not available or relevant, then we will use our experience and expertise during the survey process to provide the best recommendation to you.

2 - WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM?

Solar panels: These are the main components of the system that capture the sun's energy and convert

it into electricity.

Inverter: This device converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used in your home or business.

Monitoring system: This allows you to track the performance of your solar panel system and monitor the amount of energy it generates.

Batteries (optional): If you want to store the energy generated by your solar panels for later use, you can install a battery bank to store the energy.

3 - HOW MANY WATTS DOES A PANEL PRODUCE?

The new generation of panels produces between 450w and 550w. We mostly use 550w panels to produce more energy, using less space, which makes future expansion possible.

4 - DO I NEED SOLAR PANELS FOR THE HOT WATER OR THE POOL PUMP?

The new solar panel systems supply the house with energy for everything that uses electricity, such as the hot water cylinder, the pool pump, the air conditioning, or electric heating.

5 - HOW DOES A FEED IN TARIFF WORK?

The system does this automatically.

There is a device called an energy meter that controls the energy flow in the installation. For example, if the system is producing 5 kW and the house needs 3 kW, it takes 3 kW to cover the consumption of the house and sends the other two to the grid. Conversely, if it produces 2 KW and the house needs 5 KW, the system consumes the 2 KW and imports the other 3 KW from the grid.

6 - DOES THE ELECTRICITY COMPANY PAY ME FOR THE ENERGY I PRODUCE AND DO NOT USE?

Yes. Electricity companies offer a program called "net metering" or "feedin tariff" which allows homeowners or businesses with solar panels to sell excess energy back to the grid. Under these programs, if you produce more energy than you use, the excess energy is sent back to the grid and you receive credit from your electricity company for the energy you produce.

7 - CAN MY ELECTRICITY BILL GO TO 0€ INCLUDING FIXED COSTS?

Yes, we work with a few electricity companies that use a mechanism called ‘virtual battery’. It is a kind of virtual wallet that accumulates credit from the sale of surpluses. At the end of the month, if we have

100€ and the bill is 60€, 60€ of the credit will be used to cover the total bill and we will have 40€ left for the following month.

8 - HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECOVER THE INVESTMENT ON SOLAR PANELS?

The time it takes to recover the investment on solar panels depends on various factors such as the cost of installation, energy usage, and government incentives. Generally, when we scale a system for our clients, their return on investment is between 4 and 5 years. That's not counting grants or surplus sales, which would make that return on investment even faster.

9 - ARE BATTERIES NEEDED?

Not necessarily. You can start with a system without batteries. Once installed, we can analyse the data, look at the production and consumption, and as the system is easily expandable, you can add batteries later if necessary.

Normally, the feed in tariffs from the electricity company covers a large part of the night-time usage.

10 - WHAT ARE THE SUBSIDIES IN SPAIN FOR SOLAR INSTALLATIONS?

Normally, each town hall offers a discount on the IBI. Then, there are the subsidies from the European funds that offer 600€ per KW installed for panels and 400€ per KW for batteries.

If you're interested in going solar after reading this article, we have a special offer for Olive Press readers like you. Simply use the coupon code ‘OLIVE 10’ when you contact us for a solar consultation, and you'll receive a free survey of your property's solar potential, plus a direct discount of 250€ off your solar installation. This offer is available for a limited time, so don't wait to make the switch to solar and start enjoying the benefits of clean energy for your home or business.

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A JOURNEY THROUGH THE AGES

Moraira has been a sought after place to live for thousands of years

By Dilip Kuner

MORAIRA has turned from a sleepy fishing village into a quiet hiding place for people seeking a retreat from the modern world.

While the heart of the old village is still on the seashore and quiet harbour, the hills around the bay have become home to many villas and properties that are much sought after by people desiring the views and tranquility of the Mediterranean. And there is nothing new in this. But beneath its modern charm is a rich past that intertwines the stories of ancient civilizations, maritime

A beautiful Spanish villa close to all services and the beach, immaculately presented with fully renovated interiors and boasts exceptional exterior spaces and a pool area. The main floor has a level entrance from the road and features a spacious lounge with a chimney and high vaulted ceiling, an adjoining glazed porch, a newly fitted kitchen, a dining room, two double bedrooms and a modern bathroom. The property further benefits from an independent studio apartment, a car garage, and basement storage/hobby rooms with laundry.

trade, and cross-cultural interaction. Evidence of human habitation dates back thousands of years to the Paleolithic era thanks to its advantageous location. The region was a popular settlement for many different cultures, including the Roman, Phoenician, and Iberian peoples. Archaeological sites dotting the area including la Cova de la Cendra and the Cueva de las ratas, are proof of the presence of these early settlers, who left their mark on the land.

ROMANTIC INFLUENCE

Moraira flourished as an important centre of trade and commerce during the Roman era and benefited from being close to the busy port of

Denia. Roman coins, and ceramics have all been discovered in Moraira and serve as physical reminders of a bygone era.

HISTORY OF MEDIEVAL TIMES:

A new chapter in Moraira’s history was written during the Middle Ages when the Iberian Peninsula was conquered by the Moors only to be taken back by the Christians in the 13th century. This era is marked each year by the town’s Moros y Cristianos festivity, which just passed last weekend. In order to fend off pirate incursions, watchtowers and defensive

This era is marked by the town’s Moros y Cristianos festival

A

century, while Moraira’s castle was actually a fairly late addition to the defences, being built in the 18th century.

MARITIME LINK

For centuries, Moraira’s history has been deeply embedded with its maritime identity. Generations of locals have

Continues on page 20

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info@tabairarealestate.com Avenida Madrid 6, Moraira, Rada de Moraira, Spain www.tabairarealestate.com

Contemporary villa with captivating sea views. This modern-designed villa, boasting a heated 11 m pool and lush Mediterranean gardens featuring palms and native flora, is ideally located within walking distance of Moraira town and the prominent Playa l’Ampolla sandy beach. Located in the La Sabatera urbanisation of Moraira, this cutting-edge residence enjoys a serene residential setting.

A short 500 m stroll reveals a convenient commercial area, home to a well-sized supermarket and an array of inviting bars and restaurants.

A superb four-bedroom villa boasting beautiful Mediterranean architecture and sea views is perfectly situated just 300 meters from the beach area of El Portet. Moraira town is a 15-20 minute walk along the coastal footpath.

The property occupies a 1202 square meter plot with good sun exposure and sea views to the bay of El Portet and towards the Ifach in Calpe from the pool terrace. There is off-road parking for two vehicles plus an integral garage.

This luxurious five bedroom villa occupies a tranquil rural location, but still centrally situated with good road connections to the towns of Benissa and Teulada.

This beautiful country house is set in one third of an acre of completely secure and walled gardens. With due south aspect the property enjoys all day sun, large sun terracing areas surrounding a custom 96 square metre pool with integrated Jacuzzi, swim jet and self-cleaning system.

walls were built along the coast and the threat posed by the Barbary Pirates continued into the 19th century.

watch tower was built on Cap D’or in the 16th

Mediterranean Style Villa, Benissa

Modern Villa, La Sabatera, Moraira

Villa next to the Beach, El Portet

Luxury Finca, Benissa

CHARGE: the wars between Christians and Moors are commemorated each year

MARKET: Fishing has remained a constant in Moraira for thousands of years

20 May 2024 All about

Moraira LIVING HISTORY

cast their nets into the Mediterranean in search of an abundant catch, making fishing a way of life for them. Every year, the town celebrates its fishing heritage with the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen honors the patron

THE MODERN RENAISSANCE

in July, which saint of fishermen. between historic charm.

Over the course of the 20th century, Moraira changed from a quaint fishing village to a popular travel destination for foreigners. The development of contemporary infrastructure, such as roads and facilities, cleared the path for expansion and progress. Moraira now finds a balance between welcoming modern conveniences and maintaining its

This foreign infl uence is refl ected in the fact it has become something of a haven for artists, and writers from all over the world. The town’s dining scene and cultural events contribute to its international vibe.

Through festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions, visitors can fully immerse themselves in local customs.

Whether taking a leisurely stroll down the promenade, enjoying freshly caught seafood by the sea, or touring historic ruins, Moraira invites visitors to take a trip back in time and learn the fascinating tale of this Spanish coastal town.

WAY BACK: The Romans and later Moors made a home near Moraira

Randof Real Estate, leaders in the real estate sector on the Costa Blanca, with more than 10 years of experience, is the only real estate agency with 3 offices in the main streets of Moraira, Denia and Javea, offering a close and personalised service

Randof, is characterised by a comprehensive service to national and foreign clients looking to buy or sell property on the Costa Blanca North They have a team of more than 30 highly qualified professionals, multilingual native speakers of more than 7 languages, adapting to the needs of each client

They have an extensive network of contacts and agents at an international level, facilitating the transaction of properties abroad and working directly with the owners, offering a personalised, fast and efficient response

They also have their own legal advice, directly handling all the necessary procedures with the relevant authorities and entities This guarantees an efficient response to the legal needs of clients, saving time and ensuring a transparent process without intermediaries

Their long history and continuous expansion has made them leaders specialising in the most exclusive properties on the Costa Blanca, being the first choice for those who want to sell or buy a property with the maximum guarantees

SHOP MORAIRA SHOP DÉNIA

SHOP JÁVEA

THE RIGHT CLIMATE TO SELL

C&C Properties can answer all your questions on the Moraira real estate market

MORAIRA is undoubtedly one of the most charming places on the Costa Blanca, with its picturesque beaches, an abundance of restaurants and a very cosmopolitan vibe.

Not to mention the weather, with its typically Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters, It is therefore hardly a surprise that property sales are continuing to rise in the area with demand at an all-time high.

If you are thinking about selling your property in Moraira there has never been a better time.

We would encourage you to talk to us at C&C Properties and use our extensive knowledge of the local property market.

Discover how we can provide you with a personalised and professional service to make sure selling your property goes as smoothly as possible and importantly that we ensure you achieve the best possible price. Do you need a free no obligation valuation or information about our home staging service? Perhaps there are local laws and paperwork you need help to understand before selling?

Whatever your question C&C Properties are here to help, come and see us in our town centre office opposite the main car park, call or WhatsApp us on +34 623 032 925 or drop us a line at info@candcproperties.es we look forward to chatting with you.

If

WITH its stunning views of the Costa Blanca to inspire the imagination, it’s not hard to see why Moraira is a great literary town.

Something to write home about

Literary traditions of a tiny Costa Blanca village

attracted to the town after reading adverts in the Sunday Times for land in a development called Pla del Mar.

sh Civil War.

Aside from her own work, Gellhorn is also famous for being the third wife of novelist Ernest Hemingway.

North American writer Chester Bomar Himes died in Moraira of Parkinson's disease in 1984 and was buried in nearby Benissa cemetery. He was one of the celebrated authors who

An African American, Himes did complain of experiencing discrimination on account of his colour in Moraira. But his home eventually came to life, in the name of Villa Griot, where he enjoyed walks down to the beach passing the famous Cap d’Or watchtower.

digital.es she explained: “It is a novel that required me to sit down to work without anyone bothering me, without anyone talking to me, with long hours of concentration.

called Moraira home. He was

Another great mind to have chosen to settle in Moraira was Martha Gellhorn, the American novelist, travel writer and widely considered one of the greatest war correspondents of the 20th century, including reporting on the Spani-

In addition to Moraira, the journalist spent time living in Cuba, Rome and Wales.

Her Moraira property, situated slightly inland at Benissa with five bedrooms and four bathrooms, is up for sale for the price of €650,000.

More recently Venezuela writer Karina Sainz Borgo explained said: “Moraira is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to read, write or simply relax.”

In fact she seems to manage all three at the same time: She wrote 50 pages of her book El tercer pais on Ampolla beach

Speaking to teluadamoraira-

“As I like the sun, what I did was write on the beach and despite having people around me, there was nothing to bother me. I felt very comfortable.

“I came to Moraira looking for peace to write, looking for blue sea, clear skies, tranquillity and I got it... in fact, I noticed that, on the breakwater, there was a small sculpture of a writer and that confirmed to me that I was in a town for writers.”

That sculpture was a memorial to Himes, who continues to be an inspiration to many.

TIMELESS ELEGANCE

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Experience the ultimate in outdoor living with Dumas Design. Visit us today and discover how our exquisite collections and unparalleled craftsmanship can transform your outdoor spaces into havens of style, comfort, and elegance.

SCRIBES: Karina, Chester and (below) Martha with Hemingway

November 29th - LOOKING FOR MORE CULTURE STORIES?

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A little Gaudi glory

It might be on the small side for a Gaudi building, but it’s big on style. We form an orderly queue to look inside one of Barcelona’s lesser-known must-see attractions, the Casa Vicens

ANTONI Gaudi is an architect synonymous with the Catalan city of Barcelona.

By far, his most famous work is the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral (pictured right).

By Dilip Kuner

But the architect, who lived from 1852 to 1926, is also responsible for a host of other buildings scattered throughout the city.

Each is a wonderful example of the Catalan Modernisme style of architecture, distinctive for being colourful, eye-catching, and inspired in part by nature.

Some are well-known, including Casa Batllo and La Pedrera.

But also on the tourism map and fast gaining popularity, is the first house he ever built.

Casa Vicens was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005, but has been open to the public for five years. Carefully restored, the house is close to its original state, providing visitors with a unique insight into the architect’s style.

Gaudi had been qualified only five years when he was hired in 1883 by tile manufacturer Manuel Vicens Montaner to design a summer house in the suberb of Gracia. Gracia was swallowed up by the

city long ago. Now, to any visitor happening upon Casa Vicens in its narrow street among offices and apartment blocks, it comes as a delightful surprise, as if a Moorish palace had arrived on a magic carpet.

It is equally delightful and surprising inside where there are stucco walls symbolising reeds and ferns, murals of herons and cranes, and papier-mache cherries and leaves between the ceiling beams. Even the furniture was made to his

own design.

The influence of Andalucia is apparent in the Arabian smoking room: Gaudi has created a pastiche of the stalactite ceilings of the Alhambra in Granada – his version is made from moulded cardboard. With access limited to 500 people a day, it is best to visit the website (casavicens.org) and book a ticket in advance to avoid disappointment.

FIRST EFFORT: Casa Vicens is a prime example of the Catalan Modernisme style inside and out, as well as in its details

BUSINESS

Ahead in the cloud

BANK WARS NO YOU HANG UP

THE Spanish government has moved to kibosh a proposed €12.2 billion hostile takeover of Banco Sabadell by BBVA.

It was reasoned that such a merger could create uncertainty in the financial market.

BBVA had decided to bypass Sabadell’s board and woo its shareholders directly after its initial takeover bid was rejected.

While the Basque bank claimed the deal would save €850 million annually and allow the new entity to compete better in Europe, the government did not agree.

Work boost

THE number of people registering as jobless in Spain fell by 2.22% in April from a month earlier according to the Labour Ministry.

Figures showed a total of 2.67 million people out of work - a fall of 60,503 - the lowest number since September 2008. Compared with the same month last year, unemployment decreased by 4.4%.

The bulk of new jobs came in the services sector including hospitality and tourism, with unemployment falling by 42,067.

The number of jobless under 25 years of age fell by 8.26% in April compared to March, by 16,925 to a total of 188,082 people.

Microsoft reported by host of startups over restrictive practices

TECH giant Microsoft has been hit with a complaint filed by Spanish start-up companies about its dominance in the increasing cloud computing sector.

The complaint has been filed with the CNMC monopoly watchdog.

The Spanish Startup Association, which represents more than 700 start-ups, has produced a list of allegedly anti-competitive practices by Microsoft in recent years.

Microsoft is second in the cloud computing sectorbehind Amazon - but is ex-

By Alex Trelinski

pected to close the gap rapidly as a clutch of generative AI features powered by OpenAI’s technology attract business users.

“Microsoft has

not only taken advantage of the dominant position in the markets of Operating Systems (Windows) and traditional productivity software like Microsoft Office to force the use of its Azure cloud, but

Off the hook

A SECOND case against Colombian singer Shakira has been shelved six months after she reached a deal with prosecutors over a tax fraud.

In November she agreed to pay a fine of €7.8 million after reaching a deal with the prosecutor in Barcelona as well as the Tax Agency for having evaded €14.5 million tax between 2012 and 2014. Having long denied the allegations, she agreed to the sanction in order to avoid any possibility of jail time.

But her tax woes were not over, with prosecutors launching a second case claiming she had avoided another €6.6 million in

BARRIERS: Start-ups can’t compete

they have also imposed artificial barriers that limit the ability of start-ups to compete fairly and competitively,” the Spanish complaint says.

“These practices include barriers to data portability

tax in 2018.

Now the prosecutor has found that there is insufficient evidence against her for criminal action.

or contractual conditions that restrict competition in software licenses, preventing the free choice of providers of these services, reducing the capacity for choice and flexibility that start-ups need to be able to be resilient, innovate and grow,” the document added.

The association has called on the CNMC to launch an investigation and to take urgent measures to ensure a competitive market.

Start-up association president, Carlos Mateo, said: “We believe that all companies should be able to compete in an environment of equality so as not to be left behind either as customers or as companies providing this technology.”

The European Commission and the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority are also probing the cloud computing sector and Microsoft’s position within it.

SPANISH regulators have given their blessing to British investment firm Zegona’s €5 billion bid for Vodafone Spain. UK telecoms giant Vodafone is selling after admitting defeat in the notoriously competitive Spanish market where Movistar is king.

It was prompted to throw in the towel when the European Commission approved an €18.6 billion merger between its other two rivals in Orange and Masmovil in 2022.

The deal is expected to close on May 31.

Cashed

SPAIN’S gambling regulator has dished out fines totalling over €81 million to 17 online betting websites in the second half of 2023. The DGOJ ordered 10 of them to be shut down.

The biggest penalty of €35 million and a four-year closure was given to the National Organisation of the Spanish and European Disabled (ONDEE). They had been accused of unfair competition by the ONCE charity by selling lottery tickets and even masquerading as it.

TAKING CARE OF THE VULNERABLE

UK foundation that protects the finances of the elderly expands to Spain

BARELY a week passes by without a horrific report of an elderly person in Spain being deceived by a trusted carer or a supposedly-close friend.

Stories of bank accounts being cleared out are far too common, and non-Spanish speaking people living on their own are especially prone to be conned.

Now that is set to change with the news that a UK foundation that manages money for vulnerable people is expanding to Spain.

The Manchester-based Money Carer Foundation is a national social enterprise founded in 2009. The organisation provides money management services for elderly and vulnerable people, their carers, and the families who support them.

In Britain, hundreds of law firms, local authorities, and care providers use the Money Carer technology engine and banking platform to assist them in better managing the finances of their clients.

Money Carer CEO Sean Tyrer (pictured inset) said: “We, in effect, act as the Corporate Appointee, authorised by the Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) to help thousands of people in

the UK manage their welfare benefit entitlements.”

“Our service provides security and convenience, with access to

real-time transaction information.”

Money Carer works hand-in-hand with carers, family members, social workers and other professionals to serve their clients in the best way possible and, crucially- in their best interest.

The foundation is now set to launch in Spain, aiming to end some cases of vulnerable people being ripped off - often without even knowing it.

Money Carer will look to help elderly expats, people with learning difficulties, and those who have had or still have substance abuse issues.

“We take on a legal role and take responsibility for a person’s finances by managing their finances via a single facility, which includes receiving funds and paying bills,” said Sean.

It recently held an Open Day in Alicante to attract expats to work for it on a part-time or job-share basis.

It has already signed up an experienced carer and clinical administrator from the Denia area of Alicante province.

Sean Tyrer said: “We are looking for people with experience who perhaps have been carers or worked for social services to join our innovative money management team.

“It will be a unique opportunity to do some fascinating and caring work!”

Sean told the Olive Press that Money Carer will look to roll out across Spain towards the end of the year.

“We want to lay down the right foundations, and I hope to meet with organisations that work with the elderly and contact the British Embassy to see how we can support and collaborate.”

In the UK, Money Carer partners with the DWP and over 100 local authorities to provide money management services.

The first priority in Spain will be to introduce a secure, biometric fingerprint-activated card.

This card would allow a carer to manage and pay for things such as shopping and sundry items for the vulnerable person they look after,

but it would be monitored to ensure that everything is above board.

The fact that the card can only be used by the person whose fingerprint is linked to it when paying at the checkout adds cut-

ting-edge protection to both the carer and their client.

“A card like this will bring extra security to its owner and peace of mind that it is being used responsibly by somebody they trust,” said Sean.

Extensive information on how Money Carer works in Britain is available via their website, www.moneycarer.org.uk and there’s also an informative podcast for you to enjoy.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Bordering on

THE border region where Portugal meets Spain is home to a host of charming pueblos boasting castles, white-washed homes and rolling green hills.

Portugal’s biggest region, Alentejo is a jigsaw of landscapes, nature and enchanting villages waiting to be explored.

By Yzabelle Bostyn

From the walls you can enjoy amazing views and ‘perfectly intact’ medieval architecture.

will wow any visitor, who is bound to enjoy exploring the old town, churches and walls.

Going south, Alandroal is another magnificent example of Portugal’s well-preserved medieval and roman heritage.

If you venture into the area a great place to start is La Sierra de Sao Mamede natural park, which is an ‘oasis between stones’ in the Alto Alentejo.

The town of Castlo do Vide is perched on top of a mountain surrounded by a sea of green, which teems with animals

chanting with including otters, vultures, eagles, wild boars and deer.

Visit the local chapels, churches, walls, synagogue and castle to immerse yourself in the town’s history with touches of the gothic, medieval and even megalithic past.

Nearby are dolmens and megaliths dating back thousands of years, including the Anta da Melriça dolmen.

At the mountain range’s highest point you will find a strategic defense point and old muslim bastion.

Not only this but the surrounding buildings are historic, with the old town hall, clock tower and cistern, one of the biggest in Portugal.

After wandering around the square to complete your trip, head south to the roman city of Ammaia.

The city is famous for its rich tapestries and cork factories as well as its

medieval castle and walls.

It is also known for its baroque architecture, captured in its cathedral, plazas,

monasteries and churches.

At around the same height as Badajoz, Spain, is Elvas, a quiet Portuguese

town with much history.

Filled with adelpha plants, the best time to admire them is Spring or Autumn.

However, Alandroal is always a great destination to admire the sky without light pollution as it has been granted ‘Starlight Destination’ by UNESCO.

At the nearby river beach, Azenhas d’El Rei, you can also enjoy a kayak ride, swim or boat excursion to cool off on hot days.

The lower area of the region also has many natural wonders, with the Valle del Guadiana National Park and the Alcaria Ruiva mountain range.

The star shaped fortress and towering aqueduct

HISTORIC: The

PERFECTLY INTACT: Casto do Vide’s medieval architecture

It is a fantastic holiday for nature fans, with many hiking paths and opportunities to spot birdlife such as black storks, ospreys, griffon vultures and warblers.

dolmens of Anta da Melrica

the beautiful

The charming pueblos of Portugal, boasting castles, white-washed homes and rolling green hills are a must visit

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

November 29thDecember 12th 2023

TOLL FREE

PORTUGAL is on the verge of scrapping tolls on roads that connect the country to Spain where no ‘safe and high quality’ alternative route is available.

The government estimates that the initiative will cost around €157 million.

Among the roads that will become free is the A22 in the Algarve, which connects to Andalucia; the A4, which leads into Zamora province, as well as the A13, A23 and A24, which reache Ourense.

The draft law still has to go through several stages before coming into force, including its signing by the head of the parliament and the president, before it is sent to the prime minister.

Social outrage

FLASHPOINTS between tourists and locals are emerging on social media after holidaymakers were accused of ‘taking all the seats’ of a bus in Andalucia.

A photo shared by the Albazyn_Habitable campaign group in Granada shows an elderly woman and other people standing in a packed out bus.

The caption reads: “The bus filled with sitting tourists and the old people from the neighbourhood standing.

“Unfortunately, this scene is

Campaigns against tourists stirring up conflicting feelings

By Laurence Dollimore

repeated almost daily and is complicated because the urban buses are full and the elderly people struggle to stay standing up.”

It comes as a separate anti-tourism campaign on the Canary Islands has been

TOURIST BOOM

FOREIGN holidaymakers in Spain reached a record high for the first quarter of a year with UK arrivals accounting for 18.4% of the market.

The National Statistics Institute reported 6.3 million overseas arrivals in March, beating the previous record for that month of 5.6 million set in 2019. Over the first quarter of 2024, the cumulative total is 16.1 million visitors - up 17.7% on last year and 13.3% more than five years earlier.

Arrivals from the United Kingdom continue to dominate with nearly three million arrivals between January and March - an increase of 15.1% on 2023. Germany comes second with two million visitors, just edging out France with 1.9 million tourists.

branded ‘xenophobic’ and ‘aggressive’ by locals who say leaders of the movement are becoming ‘more and more unbearable’.

A series of posters shared on Instagram show a string of expletive-laden messages

Poster has been called ‘too agressive’

written in English on postcard-style backgrounds.

One poster reads: “It could be my house but it’s your f***ing Airbnb,” while another says, “the fact that you arrive forces us to leave.”

While many comments supported the designs for ‘saying what we are all feeling’, there were just as many criticising them.

One commenter said in

Spanish: “The message is too aggressive and badly directed. The tourists are not to blame, it’s a question of our politics.”

In one impassioned post, a local said: “The guiris are not to blame at all, the majority of them are normal people who come here to relax and they don’t buy homes to rent them out nor destroy the environment’.

MEAT DELIGHT

SPAIN’S biggest meat and grill festival will be staged for the fifth time in Valencia at the end of the month.

The Meat Carnival takes place at the city’s Antigua Estacion del Grao between May 23 and June 2.

The event will bring a record number of exhibitors offering over 50 different dishes for the anticipated 50,000 visitors. International cuisine will be featured at the festival with a Turkish grill, Asian dishes, Argentinian barbecues, and offerings from Finland, Mexico, and Uruguay.

Exotic meets will include reindeer and more traditional fare like roast chicken will be available in a special dome called ‘MadChicken’. There’ll be a variety of culinary contests including those for the best steak tartare, spicy wings, and the top grilled steak.

RUDE:

Nolotil toddler

Expat mother livid after her toddler is given ‘lethal’ Nolotil painkiller

A BRITISH expat has been left ‘livid’ after her toddler was given ‘lethal’ Nolotil painkiller.

A SPANISH centenarian has gone viral after a news clip of him was shown working out at his local gym.

The slogan on Jose Luis Ortega’s t-shirt has proven to be apt - ‘100 years inspiring those around me’ after he was shared thousands of times on TikTok.

Routine

The former physiotherapist has been exercising in the gym daily since 1935, when he was 11.

The centenarian follows a regular routine of working out on the gym machines, before swimming in the pool for half-an-hour.

And his advice to people who want to live a long, fit life is simple: “Do something, do exercise. Don’t smoke and have a little glass of red wine with lunch.”

When Hannah Pearson’s three-year-old daughter, Amalie (pictured with mum), experienced high temperatures, the 39-yearold and her husband, James, 38, took her to a private doctor in Golf del Sur in Tenerife, who diagnosed Amalie with Scarlet Fever.

But when Hannah returned from work, she got a nasty surprise. Her daughter had been prescribed Nolotil.

As a former nurse and owner of a care business, Hannah knew of the risks this ‘deadly’ drug can have, including sepsis, organ failure and even death.

“It was absolutely terrifying,” she told the Olive Press.

“I was livid and shocked that she had been prescribed Nolotil

EXCLUSIVE

By Yzabelle Bostyn

when she was doing fine on Ibuprofen and Calpol. It was gobsmacking.”

Luckily, James had not followed the doctor’s recommended dose and only gave his daughter a ‘drop’ to see if she responded well.

Amalie had been prescribed Metagial, a droplet form of Nolotil intended for children.

KILL THE DRUG

fears they had ‘done harm to their child’. Thankfully, the little girl has not presented any side effects.

Nolotil, whose active ingredient is metamizole, is known

CLOT PERIL

PHARMACEUTICAL com-

pany AstraZeneca has admitted for the first time that its Covid-19 vaccine can cause rare side effects such as thrombosis.

The admission came in court documents that were submitted to the High Court in the United Kingdom as part of a class-action lawsuit.

AstraZeneca accepted that its Covid vaccine ‘can, in very rare cases, cause TTS’, which stands for Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome. This causes people to have blood clots as well as a low blood platelet count.

Aware of the danger of the drug, the couple did not administer any more doses, despite the doctor’s recommendation of a 0.4mg dose every eight hours for five days.

“I knew because I have medical knowledge, but if I didn’t it could have wiped her out,” said Hannah.

That night, the couple ‘barely slept’, keeping a ‘close eye’ on Amalie over

to provoke extreme adverse side effects in northern europeans, in-

cluding low white blood cell count, sepsis, organ failure, gangrene and even death.

OP Puzzle solutions

Quick Crossword

Across: 6 Writ, 7 At large, 9 Adoption, 10 Find, 11 Inuit, 12 Medical, 14 Beggars, 16 Plush, 18 Trot, 20 Fair game, 21 Linseed, 22 Tall.

Down: 1 Credence, 2 Stepping stone, 3 Vapid, 4 Traffic lights, 5 Jean, 8 Lunge, 12 Mrs, 13 Assemble, 15 Rifle, 17 Wilde, 19 Roll.

If it loses the legal action, the company is facing paying out damages of up to £100 million to victims and relatives of people who had complications, with a total of 51 cases lodged at the High Court.

Mass ejection

AT least 30 drunken passengers were kicked off an Easyjet flight from Bristol to Malaga after they threatened to ‘urinate on the floor’ if they couldn’t use the toilet during take-off.

Served cold

A NEIGHBOUR unhappy with a new swanky restaurant rooftop terrace across from her apartment in Sevilla has taken to playing loud porn noises to put diners off from eating there.

Skinny dip

BEACHGOERS at a popular Menorca resort were banned from swimming after a seven-foot blue shark was spotted cruising close to shore. The ban has since been lifted.

Southern lotharios

The most sexually active provinces in Spain - and where you’re most likely to be cheated on

A SURVEY has shown that Cadiz is the top province for Latin lotharios.

Randy residents of the province are top of the Spanish charts when it comes to the number of times they have sex - an average of 9.64 times a month.

By Yzabelle Bostyn

On the other hand, people in passionless Palencia in Castilla y Leon are the least horny, doing the deed just six times a month.

The study by sex toy company,

Diversual.com also revealed that residents of Murcia (8.76), Malaga (8.54), Almeria (8.40),

Love takes flight

A SINGLE woman has found love by flying to Spain from London to meet a man she hooked up with on a dating app. Celeste Hartley, 28, said dating had become ‘so bad’ in the UK capital, that she decided to set her sights further. Celeste got an app hook-

up from Spain and the pair 'hit it off ' immediately on the phone. She then got a €300 Malaga flight to meet the 28-year-old Spaniard for a first date. She said: “Regardless of whatever happens, it is worth it for how exciting it has been.”

and Granada (8.15) were all above average in the sex charts.

At the other end of the scale, big city life would appear not to be conducive to bedroom gymnastics.

People in Barcelona (6.97), Madrid (6.96),

Navarra (6.95) and Zaragoza (6.73) were all below average when it came to bonking.

And for illicit sex, head to Tarragona, which was revealed as the most unfaithful area in Spain, with an incredible 40% of respondents admitting they had had ‘relations’ with someone who was not their normal partner.

But for those seeking a faithful other half, Palencia is the most up-standing region, with just 16% admitting to cheating. When it comes to finding the right partner, 65% said it is easier now than in years gone by, with 54% saying the best option is dating apps.

Ready to ruck

MADRID will be hosting a treat for Rugby Union sevens fans with the HSBC SVNS Series Grand Finals from May 31 to June 2. The top eight teams in the women’s and men’s league competitions have qualified for Series championship glory at the upcoming Grand Final event in Madrid from May 31 to June 2. Unfortunately for local fans both Spain’s Men and Women’s teams failed to reach the tournament. Argentina’s men will be eager to back up their SVNS Series league title on the Serie’ final stop, and the same goes for women’s league title-holders New Zealand. The All Blacks have also made it through alongside Great Britain, France, USA, Canada, Fiji and Ireland. Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, France, the USA, Canada, Ireland and Fiji make up the eight for the female competition.