Olive Press Gibraltar Issue 211 by Olive Press Newspaper Spain

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Vol. 8 Issue 211 www.theolivepress.es November 15th - November 28th 2023 FLANDERS: D’Amato in Belgium

NEVER FORGOTTEN GIBRALTAR’S Chief Minister Fabian Picardo described Remembrance Sunday as ‘moving’ as he lined up with local community leaders to pay homage to the war dead. Picardo quoted Laurence Binyon on an X social media post ‘At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.’ He met with military veterans and their relatives from Gibraltar gathered at the British War Memorial for the annual Remembrance Sunday ceremony on Line Wall Road on November 12. The Ceremony of Remembrance included an interdenominational service and a reading of the Bidding from the Governor Sir David Steel. A soldier fired a saluting gun and a military band played the Last Post that marked a two minute silence. A band then played the Reveille and dignitaries laid wreaths at the foot of the war memorial.

Judging politics LEADING judge Karen Ramagge Prescott became the first woman Speaker in history of Gibraltar’s Parliament after taking over the post from Melvyn Farrell. Ramagge took her place at the opening of parliament after getting the nod from the Chief Minister and the Opposition leader. “We need to have the opportunity and when that opportunity presents itself, we need to take the momentum and grab it with both hands,” she said in her opening speech. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo thanked the ‘selfless’ Farrell for being ‘an exemplary servant of the people of Gibraltar’ after the former Speaker decided to step down from the post. He added that Ramagge Prescott had ‘demonstrated her ability to deal with complex legal and factual issues’ as a Supreme Court judge for 14 years.

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On a wet, autumn day the director of Gibraltar House in Brussels Daniel D’Amato laid a wreath at a Cross of Sacrifice at the Royal Legion event in Flanders, which started the poppy tradition. He had travelled to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Heverlee, Belgium where nearly 1,000 casualties from both world wars are buried. The Act of Remembrance represented Gibraltar with representatives from the UK, Canada, Australia, France, Poland, New Zealand, South Africa, US and Belgium itself.

SOLEMN: Remembering the dead “It was a privilege to lay down a wreath on behalf of the people of Gibraltar at this poignant ceremony, during which the world came together to commemorate and remember the sacrifice of so many,” D’Amato said.

CAMERON’S TREATY HOPE

As new government on verge of being formed in Spain, UK Foreign Secretary appointment welcomed by all sides AN unlikely combination of the return of David Cameron to the world stage as Foreign Secretary and the Catalan support of Pedro Sanchez could boost EU treaty talks. Both Gibraltar and Spain have welcomed former UK PM Cameron as he took over the post of Foreign Secretary.

By John Culatto

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s reshuffle put Cameron’s predecessor James Cleverly into the role of Home Secretary. Chief Minister of Gibraltar Fabian Picardo wrote to the pair of UK politicians to congratulate them on their new appointments. And Spain’s Minister for Foreign Affairs welcomed Cameron too, adding that he would like to see Gibraltar’s EU treaty sewn up as soon as possible.

Talks

FOREIGN: Cameron meets Garcia

Jose Albares said he hopes to work with Cameron ‘to improve relations between Spain and the UK and to achieve an area of shared prosperity that benefits Gibraltar

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See pages 9 & 12

LEADERS: Cameron hosted chiefs of Britain’s overseas territories in London

and the Campo’. EU treaty talks could start again as soon as Pedro Sanchez returns as president of Spain. The Catalan separatist parties that are needed to bring him to office have vowed to push for Gibraltar’s right to self-determination in return for their support. In 2016, Cameron was the first Prime Minister to visit Gibraltar since 1967 and he has always strived to protect its British sovereignty. “David Cameron’s support for Gibraltar during his time as Prime Minister was unwavering,” Picardo said. “I look forward to enjoying the continuance of that strong relationship as he returns to frontline politics as Foreign Secretary,” he added.

Cameron made sure that Gibraltar was involved in the negotiating process soon after the Brexit referendum as Prime Minister. He also made sure sovereignty would never be on the table as he understood the Rock’s politics, economy, people and culture, the Gibraltar Government said.

Staunch

Picardo also reflected on Cleverly’s time as Foreign Secretary, ‘during which he stood shoulder to shoulder in defending and promoting Gibraltar’s interests’, he said. The government called Cleverly ‘a staunch defender of Gibraltar’s right to self-determination’ in its statement. Opinion Page 6

CRIME

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NEWS IN BRIEF Overseas unity DEPUTY Chief Minister Joseph Garcia took part in meetings between the UK government and Overseas Territories in London after their MPs visited the Rock during National Day celebrations.

Crypto capers ORBITAL got a licence to operate its Pay Perform cryptocurrency app in Gibraltar and Minister for Trade Nigel Feetham said he was ‘thrilled’ with having the company base itself locally.

Cold front A GROUP of 13 soldiers from Gibraltar is taking part in exercises with Nato’s Forward Land Forces in Estonia hoping to bring new skills to the local regiment.

Tangier deal THE mayors of Gibraltar and Tangier signed a deal to continue expanding the historical, sporting, economic and cultural links between both cities.

SPAIN’S Supreme Court is to debate whether ‘stealthing’ - the illicit practice of removing a condom without telling one’s sexual partner - is a specific crime. The case was triggered by a woman in Sevilla who caught chlamydia from a partner who had ‘stealthed’ her and tried to continue after she told him

Stealth sex

to stop. He was initially sentenced to four years in prison for sexual abuse plus a further six months for ‘causing injury’ by passing on the STI in a decision upheld by the Higher Court of

November 15th - November 28th 2023

Abuse recovery

Andalucia (TSJA). However, the man’s defence contended that 'stealthing' is not explicitly criminalised in the Spanish Penal Code. His legal team filed a further appeal, leading to the Supreme Court's involvement in what has become a landmark case.

BANDITS NETTED

A MEMBER of the notorious 'Bandidos' biker gang has been arrested on suspicion of trafficking drugs from the Costa del Sol to Denmark. The ringleader’s son and four other members of the Danish mafia gang were also ensnared in the raids, including at a property in Marbella. From their base on the Malaga coast, the gang is reported to have smuggled nearly a tonne of hashish into Scandinavia. During coordinated raids in both Spain and Denmark, law

Bandidos’ biker gang that oversaw wholesale importation of drugs from the Costa del Sol to Denmark smashed By Walter Finch

enforcement came across a significant stash, including €70,000 in cash, a gun, small quantities of narcotics, as well as various computer equipment and documents related to their criminal activities.

CUSTOMS arrested two Spaniards and seized 20,000 cigarettes just as they were about to load them onto a waiting boat at Catalan Bay car-park. The Spanish nationals arrived at the temporary reclamation parking in two vehicles just as a small boat was arriving from the sea. They reversed one of the vehicles to the rocks at the easternmost parking area and started to unload the tobacco in large bags from the boot. Customs officers swooped just as this was tak-

The investigation dates back to late 2022, when the Spanish National Police and their Danish counterparts teamed up to bring the gang down. The probe determined that the operation was headquartered in Marbella and linked to the ‘Bandidos’, a notorious outlaw motorcycle gang with

Smugglers foiled ing place, making the two individuals drop the bags and start to run back to the main carpark. But officers caught up with them and then searched the area to find the tobacco and impounded a Ford Fiesta involved in the operation. They are now on police bail and will need to surrender at New Mole House Police Station on December 6.

History, adventure and romance. That’s just the setting.

a worldwide membership. The leader financed the importation of hashish into Spain, and he then arranged shipments to arrive in Copenhagen - thought to be at least 800 kilograms in total. From there, his son took over the importation into the Danish capital where it was delivered into the hands of other trafficking networks. They would then move the drugs around to the end dealers around the country. Numerous Bandidos members have been convicted of criminal enterprises, including theft, extortion, prostitution, drug trafficking, and murder in various host nations. By all accounts, the life of the Bandidos member is full of motorcycle riding, crime, women, drugs, prisons, fights, and shootouts with competitors from other gangs And, of course, all sorts of cruelty and lawlessness.

A CHARITY in Gibraltar is launching a ‘groundbreaking’ new 10-week group work programme that aims to empower children that faced the horrors of abuse at home. Childline has introduced the Domestic Abuse Recovering Together (DART) programme as part of Gibraltar’s National Domestic Abuse Strategy. Bringing the strategy to Gibraltar was the brainchild of former minister for justice Samantha Sacramento who chose to step aside from frontline politics before the October 12 election.

Burglar behind bars A MAN who broke in and stole about £4,000 from three Gibraltar bars during the last few months was sentenced to a year in prison. Francis Alman, 23, of Laguna Estate, twice burgled the Casino Calpe and broke into The Lounge on Queensway Quay and Karma beach bar. During the break-ins from August to October, Alman took £4,000, an iPad and iPod Touch, police said in a statement. Alman also pleaded guilty to assaulting officers.

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NEWS

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November 15th - November 28th 2023

HAIR RAISING CLAIM HE may have agreed to pay €18.5 million and accepted a 23 month suspended prison term for tax evasion back in 2019, but Cristiano Ronaldo’s tax woes are not over. Hacienda has the football superstar in its sights once more in a row over IVA (VAT) not charged by a string of hair

transplant clinics he owns. The 38-year-old owns several Insparya Medical Clinics which did not add 21% IVA to its bills, arguing that hair transplants are a medical procedure, so exempt. But the tax man is now claiming that the treatment is purely cosmetic and so the IVA is due after all.

Just awards Glittering occasion QUEEN Letizia turned heads when she wore the jaw-dropping Flor de Lis tiara as she accompanied King Felipe on a state visit to Denmark. It is regarded as the most important of Spain’s Crown Jewels. Originally made for Balmoral-born Queen Victoria Eugenie - wife of Spain’s King Alfonso and granddaughter of Britain’s Queen Victoria - it is made with 450 diamonds and 10 pearls, mounted on a platinum structure, forming three fleurs-de-lis surrounded by vines. Experts say it could fetch up to €12 million at auction. The Spanish monarch used the occasion - the first state visit to Denmark from Spain in 40 years - to advocate for a ‘strong’ and ‘united’ Europe amidst conflict in Gaza and Ukraine. King Felipe also recognised the long relationship between the two states during a dinner organised by Q u e e n M a r grethe of Denmark.

What are the Princess of Asturias prizes that have been given to a host of international stars? By Dilip Kuner

MERYL Streep, Steffi Graf, Seve Ballesteros and Sebastian Coe are just a few of the stellar names to have been rewarded with Spain’s Princess of Asturias Award since its inception. While it gives Spain international attention, many people are not aware of just what it is for and why already famous people are

HAPPY: in Oviedo

PROUD MOMENT: Leonor awards Meryl Streep

given a Joan Miro designed trophy and €50,000 cash. This year Meryl Streep was the headline act, recently making the trip to Oviedo to accept the award, beaming with pleasure as Princess Leonor herself presented the prize for The Arts - but there is much more to the awards then famous faces. The Prince of Asturias Awards were established in 1981 when the prince was just 13-years-old. In 2014 Felipe ascended to the throne and his daughter Leonor took over leadership of the principality, leading to the awards name change. They were originally intended to ‘consolidate

links between the autonomous community Principality of Asturias and the King’. This has taken the form of bringing world-wide publicity to the region, with the Princess of Asturias foundation promoting culture and the arts in the region. Prizes are given in eight different categories: The Arts, Literature, Social Sciences, Communication and Humanities, Technical and Scientific Research, International Cooperation, Concord and Sports.

King

The awards are handed out by the Princess of Asturias (Leonor) at an annual ceremony presided over by her parents, the King and Queen of Spain with the awards considered among the most important in the Spanish-speaking world.

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Going swimmingly AS winter starts to draw in on mainland Spain thoughts of fashionistas are turning to warm coats and woolies rather than beachwear. But over in the Canaries, where November temperatures see average highs of 25C, the focus is still firmly on bikinis and swimsuits. Canarian designers and brands came together for Tenerife Fashion Beach Costa Adeje 2023 , with eye-catching designs. Lola Casademunt by Maite presented its swimwear collection called Iconic Luxor (main picture) ‘paying tribute to Egyptian culture’. The men were not forgotten, with Ananas Wear coming up with this creation (inset) inspired by ‘vegetation, beaches and sunsets’.

Orca-strated attack A POD of orcas have sunk a yacht in the Strait of Gibraltar after a harrowing 45 minute attack. According to the Polish tour operator running the voyage, the killer whales ‘hit the rudder repeatedly for 45 minutes, causing major damage and leakage’. The Grazie Mamma made a dash for safety to Tanger Med, a collection of ports about 30 miles northeast of Tangier but

foundered despite assistance from the Moroccan Navy. None of the crew or passengers were harmed. Orca attacks on vessels have more than doubled in the past two years, according to marine research group, GT Orca Atlantica. So far this year, the group has recorded 53 orca incidents in the Strait of Gibraltar, with 12 causing damage to vessels.

NEWS

4 www.theolivepress.es Politics restarts CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo gave a fiery speech where he said it was ‘all-go for the GSLP/ Liberal government’ as parliament opened. He said that his government was ready to deliver his Alliance’s October 12 election manifesto and move forward with parliamentary reform in what would ‘undoubtedly’ be his last term in office. And he promised to work hard on finishing off the EU treaty as Spain’s Pedro Sanchez could now finally be ready to return as President with Catalan support. Then, all the MPs and new Speaker Karen Rammage came forward to take the oath of allegiance to King Charles III.

Keep calm and marry on!

November 15th - November 28th 2023

LOCAL FLAIR

Brits looking to stay in Spain can sign ‘civil partnerships’ with their lovers

A BRITISH expat has revealed how he was able to stay in Spain by signing a so-called pareja de hecho with his Polish girlfriend. Mark Rofe, 34, slammed post-Brexit legislation which he said made it ‘impossible’ for him to live in the same country

EMERGENCY services have held a full drill to prepare for any potential accidents at the North Mole refueling plant. The exercise involved ‘live play’ using mock victims and came after the emergency services did a ‘table-top exercise’ at the end of June. “This exercise organised by the Office of Civil Contingencies has set very specific training objectives to test interagency response and communications in an LNG terminal accident scenario,” Minister Leslie Bruzon said. Gibraltar is one of the biggest refuelling ports for tankers and cargo ships in the Mediterranean. But local environmentalists Environmental Safety Group have criticised the bunkering process as the biggest polluter of all the territory’s processes.

By Laurence Dollimore

as his partner Alex Limanowka, also 34. The couple signed a ‘pareja de hecho’ last year, which allowed Mark to gain residency in Spain and live in Barcelona.

Staying safe

NATURAL GAS: Five stainless steel tanks

A pareja de hecho is a legal status that a couple can apply for, if they can prove they have maintained a stable relationship and lived together for at least 12 months. According to Immigration Lawyers Madrid the relationship “must be considered public and continuous, meaning that there must be documentation available to prove it and that there has been no interruption in the time you have been together during the last year.” Mark, from Surrey, said: “I don’t think a lot of people realise just how difficult it is since Brexit to move and live in another EU country. The 90 in 180 day rule meant that I could only see Alex for half the year, and who wants to only see their partner for half the year?” He said he looked at golden visas and other options, but added: “None of these were suitable, it was impossible, so we ended up doing the pareja

de hecho, a type of civil partnership, which is similar to a marriage, just without the formal ceremony. It wasn’t exactly something quick or cheap to do either, it cost thousands in legal fees and took about 6+ months for me to get my residency.” Mark’s partner Alex, a relationship therapist said: “For a while things were uncertain, which put a strain on our relationship. Thankfully for us though, we managed to find a way to make it work. “Putting our situation aside, it does make me think how many other hundreds or thousands of other couples may have found themselves in a similar situation because of Brexit. It seems a bit sad that for Brits, even love has more boundaries than it did before.”

GIBRALTAR kicked off the local version of its literature celebration that served as a prelude to the international part of the festival. Mayor and former actor Sonia Carmen Gomez started the event with discussions that explored memories of Gibraltar’s past. Guests opened up about the strength of local literature, culture and identity. Richard Garcia spoke about the social history of Gibraltar, digging into the past to recover the story of ordinary people that made the society what it is today. And conservationists Darren Fa and Ian Ballantine then discussed their passion for exploring the Rock’s fortifications.

Talk

Local photographer Juan Carlos Teuma spoke about his life as a paparazzi from the Costa del Sol to travelling around the world snapping celebrities, while GBC journalist Ros Astengo talked about taking on the challenge of writing a true crime book about the Simon Parkes missing sailor case. Former UK Prime Minister Theresa May will headline the international literary festival on November 17-19.

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5 Brits yearn Jumbo celebration for EU

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DIGITAL DELIGHT A PAIR of young people from Gibraltar have made their names for themselves with 3D scanning which they then want to use to highlight Gibraltar’s modernity and innovation. James Barton and Jarod Vassallo met with Minister for Trade and Industry Nigel Feetham to show him just what they could do. They used state-of-the-art equipment to scan the physical objects in the new minister’s office and turn them into a digital replica in three dimensions. Feetham called the feat ‘truly impressive’ as he sets about trying to expand the community’s Digital Skills in a new drive. The visit was part of this plan to encourage young digital entrepreneurship in Gibraltar.

Studying Gibraltar A GROUP of Granada University students learnt about Gibraltar’s realities and Spain’s myths from its government ministers recently. The talk by Ministers John Cortes and Joseph Garcia was the centrepiece of the visit by the 27 geography and environmental sciences students. The visiting group included students from Czech Republic, Germany, Brazil, China, UK, New Zealand, France and Malaysia. As part of the trip they visited the Skywalk attraction and St Michael’s Cave in the nature reserve, learning about the monkeys along the way. In the afternoon, Deputy Chief Minister Garcia spoke about Gibraltar from World War II evacuation to the present day Brexit talks.

November 15th - November 28th 2023

MAKENA, the first elephant born in the Valencian Community, has celebrated her first birthday. A huge cake with a difference was baked along with special decorations for the elephant enclosure at wildlife centre Bioparc Valencia. A large mound of sand with several layers formed the cake containing favourite elephant treats like watermelon, melon, pineapple, tomatoes, celery, lettuce, and pumpkins. That was in addition to gift boxes filled with food, branches, forage and various elements specially chosen to pique the young pachyderm’s interest.

PAPAL VISIT

Picardo and Steel welcomed by Pope at Vatican POPE Francis said Gibraltar’s harmony and respect among religions ‘must be preserved’ as he met with its Chief Minister and Governor at the Vatican in a private audience. The leader of the Catholic Church invited both Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and Governor Sir David Steel to the religious enclave. Steel said in the discussion with the pontiff that he had been humbled by how in his time as governor he had seen that respect and har-

By John Culatto

mony in Gibraltar. And Picardo added ‘how proud all Gibraltarians are of the interfaith relationships Gibraltar can boast of’. The pope replied that this ‘was to be treasured’, as reported in a government statement. The governor then presented the pope with a gift of a facsimile of a document from the Garrison Library and the biography of Bishop Rapallo,’First and Last’. The pontiff returned the gesture with a model of an olive branch, a copy of his encyclicals and a personally signed copy of his ‘Message for Peace’. Francis also presented all those in the delegation with his personal GREETING: Steel (left) and Picardo medal. with Cardinal Pietro Parolin

MEETING: Picardo smiling with Pope Francis

After the meeting, Picardo and Steel met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal

Pietro Parolin with whom they had a longer discussion on world affairs.

TOWN EXERCISE THE MoD told the public they ‘should not be concerned’ after British soldiers took part in a 10-day exercise around Gibraltar. Code named Barbary Strike, it ‘involved a series of training exercises across Gibraltar, testing their abilities to meet operational objectives,’ a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said. It is running until November 16 ‘which might increase the visibility of military presence at unusual times’, especially in the early morning and late evening, the spokesman said. The exercise will echo the one carried out by the 1st Deep Reconnaissance Strike Brigade, which only formed last summer. The Ministry of Defence employs almost 1,000 people at its military base on the Rock, and more than half of them are local civilians. About a quarter of those employed by the MoD belong to the Royal Gibraltar Regiment.

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A NEW survey has revealed that a majority of Brits would vote to rejoin the EU if a new referendum were held today - though fewer than three months ago. Nearly six in 10 (59%) of respondents in a recent survey by Redfield & Wilton Strategies support Britain’s re-entry to the European project, with 41% against. This represents a swing of three points in Brexit’s favour since the last survey in August, when 62% of Brits yearned for EU membership Of people who voted for Remain and Leave respectively in 2016, there has been a shift of 11% towards the former. As many as 22% of those who originally voted 'Leave' now express a desire to rejoin the EU, and 11% of 'Remain' voters would now prefer to stay out. Seven years on from the Brexit vote, 71% of respondents aged 18-24 - who were ineligible to vote in the 2016 EU referendum - would vote to join the EU. The majority of other age groups would also choose to join, except for those aged 65 and above, with 54% preferring to stay out.

Voting rights victory BRITISH citizens living in Spain for over 15 years will be able to vote in the next UK general election. Draft legislation is expected to become law in January after being passed in Parliament. Around three million British citizens live abroad with around 293,000 UK nationals registered as living in Spain. Expats allowed will be entitled to vote in the last UK constituency in which they were registered or can provide proof of past residency. It brings to an end a long battle by the late Harry Shindler, an Italian-based British expat, who challenged the former 15year limit on voting rights.

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NEWS FEATURE

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

OPINION Getting over the line By the time you read this, Pedro Sanchez could have returned as President of Spain. And this must be the best news Gibraltarians wanted to hear for their hopes of a favourable EU treaty that does not cross its red lines of sovereignty. But vitally, the support of their Catalan supporters could be instrumental for Gibraltar’s hopes of an EU treaty that suits them. The Catalan parties have expressed their desire for Spain to respect Gibraltar’s right to self-determination just as they want the Madrid administration to respect theirs. And this sort of influence could be just the momentum the UK needs to push at least a four year deal over the line. Gibraltar’s Deputy Chief Minister Joseph Garcia had already voiced this possibility last July after the Spanish national elections failed to bring an outright winner to the table. He described how Junts Per Catalunya had included the desire to respect Gibraltar in its manifesto for the last election. The conservative outcry on the amnesty to Catalan politicians was to be expected. But as PSOE negotiator Santos Cerdan said, it ‘constitutes a historic opportunity to resolve a conflict (in Catalunya) that can and must only be resolved through politics’, And this moment of mutual reconciliation and empathy – even if prompted by the bonus of another four years of empowering a progressive government – could benefit the Rock. Seeing beyond the moat of one’s national interests is what Gibraltar requires from Spain. And lowering the drawbridge for a treaty of mutual interest that could also benefit the surrounding area would give Chief Minister Fabian Picardo the chance to get the deal he has worked so hard for. No-one really knows what David Cameron will bring to the table as Foreign Secretary but his 2016 pre-referendum visit to Gibraltar could be a sign he will see the Rock’s perspective. It would only be fair on both the impoverished Campo region and a Gibraltarian population that voted by 96% to remain in the EU. PUBLISHER / EDITOR

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By Laurence Dollimore

T was one of the biggest ever scandals to rock the costas. The infamous Malaya case uncovered a €2.4 billion embezzlement ring that involved dozens of councillors, a series of mayors, a famous flamenco singer, a German countess and at one point even former James Bond star Sean Connery as a side act. The scale of the corruption proved so pervasive that control of Marbella town hall had to be temporarily handed over to a caretaker administration appointed by the Junta until local elections could take place in 2007. The historic crimes, which took place between 1991 and 2006, are now being re-told in a smash hit true crime series on Spanish national TV. The documentary, available to stream, speaks to those involved in the case, including judges, witnesses and journalists. Below, the Olive Press takes you through the biggest players in the Malaya case.

Juan Antonio Roca

Very much the puppetmaster of the Malaya plot, Roca was born into humble beginnings in Cartagena, Murcia, in 1953, before moving to Marbella in 1991 after his development company Comarsa was declared bankrupt. Once through the golden arches he enjoyed a meteoric rise starting as the then mayor Jesus Gil’s chauffeur to becoming the councillor for Urban Planning for 11 years until 2003. While there, he launched an unprecedented campaign of accepting bribes in exchange for building licences from a string of developers. In just four years alone (from 2002 to 2006) a total of 19 agents are said to have paid more than €33 million to Roca and his cohorts. It is alleged that during his time in office, Roca amassed a fortune worth at least €125 million, including a string of properties, a huge collection of exotic animals and a private art portfolio that included a Miro, worth millions, that he kept in the loo. A dedicated website was set up to auction off €75 million worth of his properties, cars, works of art and furniture in an effort to

2016 - 2020

RITISH expat Patrick Clancy went into hospital for a routine shoulder operation and left six weeks later after a near-death brush with a controversial drug that left him unable to walk or eat. Six years later, the 80-year-old still feels the mental and physical damage he suffered at the hands of the lethal drug, that he should never have been given. The notorious painkiller Nolotil, is known to decrease the white blood cell count of Northern Europeans to dangerous levels, leaving them vulnerable to infections and sepsis. While the medicine is a common painkiller in Spain, regulations were put in place banning the sale of the drug to Brits without a prescription in 2018. For Clancy that date sadly came too late. It was a year earlier on September 25, 2017, that the retired oil worker, from Surrey, was admitted to Hospital de Dénia-Marina for a routine shoulder replacement and then given Nolotil to ease the pain. It seemed fine at first but after four days he started to feel ‘extremely unwell’ and was suffering from infections, cold sweats, fevers and fits. Then 74, he was immediately admitted to intensive care and plunged into an induced coma, which he wouldn’t wake up from for

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James Bond, countess and flamenco singers were all dragged into famous Malaya case

claw back enough cash to settle civil liability claims from Marbella Town Hall and the tax authorities. It was through Roca that Bond star Connery’s name was dragged in, with allegations of tax dodging and fraud over the sale of his famous villa, Malibu, on the Golden Mile. It was eventually demolished to make way for 74 luxury apartments and the Scottish actor was eventually cleared of any involvement in the case. Roca was eventually jailed for 20 years and paroled after he had served 12 years.

Isabel Garcia Marcos

The former deputy mayor, Garcia Marcos was ironically a one-time socialist councillor and ferocious critic of corruption in Marbella. But, perhaps inevitably, she eventually became one of Roca’s favourite councillors and was caught saying ‘I don’t sign a piece of paper, or even read one, if I don’t get money’. Police found an incredible €360,000 in cash at her home when she was arrested in 2003, leading to a threeand-a-half sentence, along with €700,000 in fines.

Nolotil nightmare still haunts me six years on

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CAMPAIGN: The Olive Press has long campaigned against Nolotil, which comes under a variety of brand names

A controversial drug still being handed to expats and northern Europeans - as the Olive Press revealed - could kill again, believes ex-victim Patrick Clancy By Yzabelle Bostyn

However, the expeSPAIN’S BEST 35 WINES rience left Patrick O LIVE ‘emotionless’. PRESS He said: “Instead NOLOTIL WARNIN of being excited to come home on the day she came to pick me up to take me NEED FOR home for Christmas CHANGE I just thought, ‘Oh, nothings changed’. “It was a shock to the system. If a bomb had dropped952 147 834 down beside me, I would’ve thought; ‘Look at that, it didn’t go off’. In fact, Patrick couldn’t even talk about the experience until three years later. Now, six years on, he tells the Olive Press he still experiences mental and physical side effects as a result of Nolotil. “A doctor told me Nolotil is like a nuclear bomb going off in the body. Everytime I go to the hospital they say I’m alright, but I’m just not the same person anymore. It’s a very, very heavy burden.” Patrick suffers a constant ‘pins and needles’ sensation in his extremities, random stabbing pains and frequent flu-like symptoms. He also experiences consistent brain fog and extreme tiredness. He said: “I always want to put my head in a bucket of cold water. I’m not half as sharp as I used to be.” But the worst of it, he says, is remembering the terrifyingly vivid nightmares he had while under treatment. He recalls: “I’m a very nuts and bolts person. BOTTOMS UP: The Olive Press chooses... The

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six weeks. He was put on dialysis due to kidney failure and diagnosed with septic shock after doctors discovered his body was fighting three infections at once. Medical staff urged Patrick’s wife, Julie, to inform family in the UK to come immediately, knowing that if the infections reached his shoulder, the father of four’s days would be numbered. “They didn’t think I’d last the weekend. It was absolutely awful for my family”, the granddad told the Olive Press. “It was terrible because every single day it was like rolling the dice. It went on for six weeks and so obviously my family had to go back to England, not knowing if it was the last time they’d see me.” The experience was particularly traumatic for Julie, who visited her husband of 34 years every day, as doctors mistakenly informed her that Patrick’s leg had been amputated and on another occasion, medical staff moved her husband without telling her, leading her to believe he had died. Patrick, who had lived in Alicante for over 20 years, was in a coma for an alarming 39 days before doctors managed to revive him. After recovering in hospital for two weeks, the Javea resident was sent to Fontilles, a former leper colony in the mountains of Alicante, to recover. There, the expat spent six weeks relearning how to walk, sit up and eat again before being discharged just in time for Christmas.

voice in Spain

November 3rd - November 16th 2023

A LETHAL painkiller is STILL being given to Brits five years after it was banned, the Olive Press can reveal. It comes as a reader contacted us to sound the alarm after he was given the potentially deadly drug while receiving treatment at HCB EXCLUSIVE launching a lawsuit against the By Yzabelle Bostyn Hospital in Denia, Alicante. Spanish Ministry of Health after Nolotil, also known as Metamizol, she claims doctors are not followis the most common painkiller In October 2018, the drug was ing the guidelines and patients are in Spain and is often marketed banned for sale without still being given the drug ‘against as an alternative to Ibuprofen or scription to British people a pre- their will’. visiting Paracetmol. Spain following a months’ long A spokesperson for the hospital campaign by this newspaper and said: “HCB Hospitals follows the tireless medical campaigner Cris- recommendations of the AEMPS, Deaths and particularly those for the forBut the drug has been linked to tina Garcia del Campo. several deaths and serious illness- Recommendations were also is- eign population, we are very aware es among British expats and tour- sued advising medical staff to of the recommendation not to preavoid giving the drug to patients scribe Nolotil to foreign patients.” ists visiting Spain. Though usually harmless, Nolo- in urgent care and to carry out It insisted that the recommendation til can affect Northern Europe- follow up blood tests if the drug is is followed and patients are informed about the best available treatments. ans with fair complexions and is given for seven days or more. banned in the UK, Ireland, Swe- The directive note, issued by the WARNING: Cristina has campaigned Spanish Opinion Page 6 Medicine against Nolo den. the Olive Press Agency (AEMPS), recommended medical staff monitor patients given the drug to check for potentially deadly side effects like low white blood ‘You’re killing us!’ cell count and sepsis. However Cristina, Tragic end founder of the AffectOVER 1,000 people took to the ed by Pharmaceutiof Palma to demand ‘less tourism,streets cals Association, says more life’, ahead of an EU tourism summit bethe guidelines are ing held in the city. ‘not strong enough’. Protestors marched from Porta “It's worrying beCatalina to Passeig Born, wherede Santa a manicause this is somefesto backed by 77 groups was signed. thing that can kill The manifesto, read by author Tel: 902 123 282 902 123 282 KILL you, it has killed so gold, spoke out against the ‘lackClara InTHE DRUG: The Olive of’ susPress campaigned to ban many people,” she tainable tourism. Nolotil She added there were far too many told the Olive Press. holiday rentals and labelled tourism Now, Cristina is a ‘devas-

Outrage as dangerous Spanish painkiller continues to be given to Brits despite being banned

Stars from Anne Hathaway to Jodie Whittaker keep visiting Ronda, find out why in our travel supplement inside

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“IT’S a dirty world that I don’t want to live in anymore.” These were the intended last words of a British teen who had embarked on a suicide pact with her 16-yearold boyfriend in Marbella. The privately-educated expat, 14, added: “I’m Sorry: To anyone who has ever loved/known or supported me, thank you, I love you and I will miss you.”

Bizarre

However, her heartfelt messages had a cruel, bizarre twist, when her British-Brazilian boyfriend Richard Fitzsimons managed to take his life off the top of the Corte Ingles department store, while she miraculously survived. It came as a hero security guard somehow managed to grab the girl before she was able to plunge to her death after her lover. In a tragically sad incident - that has shocked the coast and made headlines around the world - the teenager, who we are not naming for legal reasons, is now requiring serious Continues page 2

Issue 304

November 7th - November

20th 2018

errania de Ronda

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Andalucia’s city in the mountains leaders and is a hot ticket for world their wives despite Hemingway’s Elisa lukewarm words, writes

‘

wine, exNICE promenades, good to do…’ cellent food and nothing wrote off Thus Ernest Hemingway numerthe town where he spent the local ous holidays drinking no wine and carousing at corridas, of Rondoubt disappointing many his puzzlingly da’s proud residents with lacklustre review. - including Most of today’s travellers ministers and Britain’s last two prime would certainan American First Lady has been ly disagree with him. Ronda most-visited crowned Andalucia’s thirdsee why. town and it’s not hard to is a true The so-called ‘City of Dreams’ of a cewanderlust gem and somewhat lebrity hang-out. May, Anne HaThis year alone, Theresa Whittaker, thaway, Ricky Gervais, Jodie Scott Thomas Gordon Ramsay, Kristin Rajoy and Spain’s ex-premier Mariano the stunning have all allegedly visited locals in the mountain town... so say know.

Menendez

Obama

headlines Michelle Obama also madetouring the when she visited in 2010,the Moorish old town and discovering Sasha. dynasty with her daughter Novelli Celebrity chef Jean Christophe town after went house hunting in the falling in love with it in 2009. sierra setting, With its spectacular high and atmoleafy parks, cobbled lanes Ronda spheric ventas it’s no wonder of so many has stolen the hearts travellers. of writers Over the centuries a slewits timeless have waxed lyrical about and charmcharacter, stunning views ing locals. it the The German poet Rilke baptised took a ‘City of Dreams’, Orson Welles and shine to its bullfighting scene

GRAND TOUR-ISTS: Painters tackle the gorge, while (inset) recent visitors Anne Hathaway, Gordon Ramsey, Jodie Whittaker and Ricky Gervais

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NOLOTIL VICTORY

A LETHAL painkiller believed to be responsible for the deaths of dozens of expats is finally being regulated in Spain. Nolotil, which the Olive Press has investigated for nearly two years, has been

banned for tourists in Spain. In a breakthrough move, The Spanish Medicine Agency (AEMPS) has finally issued a directive to all healthcare bodies to stop giving the drug to British and

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Irish tourists. Expats in Spain will now be administered Nolotil on a short term prescription only. Furthermore it can only be prescribed after a detailed analysis of the patient’s medical history and heritage. It will also have to be much more closely monitored. It comes after an Olive Press investigation into the mysterious deaths of expats from the drug was launched 2016, in along with a 1,000-strong petition to have it regulated a year later. Nolotil, also known as Metamizole, is banned in the UK, the US and most of Europe. Despite this, the drug is still one of the most popular painkillers in Spain,

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for ENVIRONMENTAL groups are taking legal action against the Junta ‘failing to tackle toxic air’ in the Campo de Gibraltar. claimEcologistas en Accion has filed a complaint with the Health Ministry, ing nothing has been done to protect citizens from a rise in air pollutants caused by the expansion of ‘toxic’ industries in the Bay of Algeciras. polAccording to the green group, more than 10,000 tonnes of dangerous lutants were released into the atmosphere last year. well as This includes potentially lethal cancer-causing chemical benzene, as other fine particles. worst The writ comes as Cadiz province was officially declared to have the air quality in Spain. most And alarmingly, La Linea, which borders Gibraltar, ranks as the 30th polluted place in the world in terms of air quality. The shocking stats were revealed in a damning World Health Organisation report which lists the world’s ‘most contaminated’ Continues page 11 towns and cities. Adding salt to the wound, Cadiz also came bottom in

TOXIC: Oil refinery plumes black smoke into the Campo

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EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore

A BRITISH expat couple are fighting to save their Malaga home from demolition over a technicality. Gill and Bob Ward, both 74, have been locked in a battle with their town hall, which claims their house in Almayate is illegal. Just yesterday the retired couple from Cornwall were given

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THE Olive Press is giving away three pairs of tickets for two of the best concerts on the Costa del Sol this summer... And all you have to do is answer two simple questions! Michael Bolton takes to the stage for an emotive end of season night at Marbella’s Puente Romano on August 10, while Estepona is set for its biggest rock concert in years with mammoth

Doctors and dentists join Olive Press appeal for ban on dangerous painkiller Nolotil EXCLUSIVE By Laurence Dollimore

one month to knock down their only property (pictured above). In a court order seen by the Olive Press, the Wards are warned they will be held criminally responsible if they refuse. “I don’t know what to do anymore, I’m at the end of my tether” Gill told the Olive Press, “I’m totally exhausted from the whole ordeal.” The retired pair, who have now spent thousands of euros on legal costs, bought the old farmhouse ‘in ruins’ in 2004, and were given permission from Velez-Malaga town hall to rebuild it. But when the original wall collapsed of its own accord during construction, the Wards’ architect told them it would be fine and that he would let the town hall know. Unfortunately for

tribute bands Think Floyd, Deeper Purple and Whole Lotta Led rocking out the greatest hits of Pink Floyd, Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin at the Plaza del Toros on August 26. For a chance to win a pair of tickets to see Bolton, just answer the question; what year was Michael Bolton born in? For the Pink Purple Zep Fest in Estepona, just tell us; Where was Jimmy Page born? Email answers to the newsdesk@theolivepress.es. WIN

WIN WIN: Bolton and Pink Purple Zep Fest tickets

KILL THE DRUG

THE Olive Press is calling on Spain to ban a lethal painkiller that is killing countless of unsuspecting expats. British dentists and doctors are supporting the ban after Briton Graham Ward, 75, complained to the Olive Press of how he was prescribed the deadly Nolotil drug by a dentist last week. It’s the very same drug that was blamed for killing his wife in 2006. The Marbella-based expat was furious when he was told to take the painkiller by his Spanish dentist, after suffering from a difficult abscess. His wife Mary, 59, had died after being prescribed the same drug following a double vasectomy at Costa del Sol Hospital. “Within 24 hours she was in intensive care, her white blood cell count plummeted to zero within days,” explains Graham, a former computer HAPPIER TIMES: Graham with wife, and Billy Smyth technician, from London. She never regained conscious- again. Metamizole, Nolotil is banned ness and was on a life support “He said she would be alive if in the US, the UK, Ireland and machine for FOUR months, she hadn’t taken it, but I have most of Europe, but it is prebefore spending three years heard from dozens of Brits scribed widely in Spain. fighting the impact of the and Irish who have been given Irishman William ‘Billy’ drug, which led to organ fail- it,” added Graeme. Smyth was given a five-day It is the third victim of the course of the drug in Februure. “The chief surgeon at the hos- drug the Olive Press has re- ary. pital promised me he would ported on in under a year. But when the 66-year-old renever prescribe that drug Sometimes known also as turned to a different Spanish

Need for more research

Dr Nina King, of Oasis Dental Care in Marbella, fully supports the campaign, telling the Olive Press the drug is not something she prescribes. “It’s not a drug I use, I stick to safe and standard medication,” she said, “And after seeing what damage it can do, it’s a drug I won’t be using in the future.” Marbella-based private doctor Dra. Victoria María Chacón Almeda also agrees the drug is dangerous. “I don’t prescribe the drug,” she told the Olive Press, “I have lots of British patients and I am aware of what it is capable of doing. “There needs to be a lot more research on its impact.”

doctor to get a renewal in April, tests showed the drug had caused a toxic poisoning in his bone marrow and his white blood cell was dangerously low. Billy, a keen sportsman, developed sepsis and necrotising fasciitis as a result and required ‘radical surgery’ to remove the affected tissue in an attempt to save his life.

The dad-of-two later died from septic shock – believed to be linked to taking the Nolotil. Another British expat Hugh Wilcox was prescribed the same medication for mild shoulder pain on the Costa del Sol. He developed severe head Continues on Page 2

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which despite various side effects,Mosquito Screens can cause a rapid drop in white blood cells, leaving patients unable to fight infections. Medical translator, Cristina Garcia del Campo, who has pulled together hundreds of case studies from victims for the AEMPS’ probe, said she was ‘very happy’ the authorities have finally reacted. Following the results of her KILL THE rigorous investigation she DRUG has now demanded that the drug must not be sold without a prescription and a detailed patient analysis. “I am very happy that the problem has been dealt with,” she told the Olive Press. “I will be making sure that the AEMPS recommendations are carried out and if necessary make sure it’s banned completely.” The Olive Press began investigating after a trio of expat families told us how their relatives had died unnecessarily in excruciating pain, after taking the drug in Andalucia. In April, the paper revealed the first steps towards regulation had been taken, with Marina Salud, a big health network in Alicante, issuing a warning to stop administering the drug to British, Irish and Scandinavian patients. estepona@ibexinsure.com

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tating industry’. The protest on Monday also called end to pollution, overcrowding for an and the growth of more tourist lets. It comes after growing frustration residents who claim their quality from is being sacrificed for the comfort of life of visTOO MUCH: locals rail against itors. 'overtourism' The protest was in response to the meeting of EU tour- who ism ministers in Palma. rent legally.” She also highlighted climate change The European Tourism Forum brought industry leaders lenge as a signific together to discuss the social sustainability for the islands. of tourism. “We are a limited, small and fragile The summit aimed to find ways to promote ‘alternative’ just over territory. destinations. one million inhabitants and receive 1 tourists a year. Balearic President Marga Prohens urged EU leaders to “We want bring in new laws to regulate holiday to minimise the negative effects rentals. of and be sustainable from an economic, She said: “Holiday lets present a great opportunity to ronmental social share the wealth generated by tourism. point of view. If just one of these a However, illegal everything thi ones create unfair competition for hotels and owners Ministers fails.” took part in a series of discussions at mit this week to try and combat the negative i the trade. In particular, they signed a joint declaration in f social and sustainable tourism. In the declaration, ministers agreed to advo ‘greener, more digital, inclusive, resilient and See pages 9 & 11 sive’ tourism. They also vowed to create job opportunities and the ‘long-term well-being of everyone in the valu especially the local populations’.

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Property

S pr pa op in’ in er s b En ty es gl ma t ish g

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November 2023

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CREDIT: Photo by Jon Clarke

The incredible allure of crafty courtyards has been turned into an artform in Spain, some with roses, others with geraniums and some with simply palms. We take a look at their history.

VARIETY: Palacio de las Dueñas in Sevilla to a typical Cordoba patio and a modern design

STAY IN THE NEST!

OUNGSTERS in Spain are among the oldest in Europe to flee the nest. The average age to leave home is an incredible 31 years, the third highest on the continent. Only Greeks and Slovakians leave home later. The percentage of young adults living with their parents is over 60% in the case of 18 to 34 year olds, and 50% for 25 to 34 year olds. The lack of affordable housing in cities and popular tourist spots, including the costas and the Balearic Islands, is the key issue. According to a new OECD Economic Survey on housing across Europe, Spain has a long-standing issue due to

Lack of affordable housing is keeping Spaniards at home into their 30s By Alex Trelinski

continually rising prices. It blames the ‘difficult transition from education to the labour market’ and adds it creates ‘a difficult transition to independent life for young Spaniards’. High rental prices mean youngsters are priced out of the market, while there is a critically low supply of council housing. According to the report average rents have risen by 40% over the last decade compared to just 10% in salaries. Yet, alarmingly, only 1% of Spain's hou-

sing stock is 'social housing' compared to 7% in other OECD nations. The report did however sound a note of optimism over the new Housing Law, which is seeking to ‘address the lack of affordable housing’ through regulations and tax measures. The plan to allocate 40% of new residential construction to social housing half of it for social rental units - ‘could generate benefits for lower-income households’, ruled the report. “But only if carefully monitored to ensure that such inclusionary zoning does not reduce incentives to start new projects or drive up market prices,” it added.

NOT LEAVING: Spanish are the third oldest to fly the nest

PROPERTY

November 15th - November 28th 2023

DALI-CIOUS!

THE iconic works of Spanish art genius Salvador Dali have inspired a wave of ‘melting’ CLOCKING ON: Designers, including Kelly homewares. Among the most trendy items flying off the Wearstler and (inset) Tom Dixon are influenshelves are the seemingly liquid disco balls ced by Dali’s famous melting clocks picture pouring off tables by designer Kelly Wearstler, fluence is still being felt in the decor business. alongside a super trippy rug by Henry Holland Other Dali-inspired items include a Melt Porfor Floor Story. table LED lamp by Tom Dixon. Dali was a surrealist painter from Catalunya Even H&M Home has cottoned on, with the whose psychedelic works famously featured high street store selling a new collection of melting clocks and other distorted objects. vases and candle holders which appear to reThe maestro died in 1989, but it seems his in- semble liquid forms.

Canaries to regulate holiday homes THE Canary Islands are planning to ban holiday homes in certain municipalities and tourist areas. It comes following an increase in what it dubs 'gentrification' and ‘touristification'. Opinions of residents are now to be canvassed ahead of drafting a new law with some areas having up to a third of housing that is purely for tourist purposes. Besides introducing 'zero growth' areas, certain municipalities will get a percentage limit on the number of new holiday homes that can be built. The government hopes to approve its new law on tourist housing next year. Currently, there are 47,051 regulated tourist accommodations in the community, which offer 195,532 beds. This totals 3.6% of the regional housing stock – the second highest in Spain, only beaten by the Balearic Islands (5%). It comes after Idealista discovered the number of long term rentals has fallen by 22% in the Canaries in the last four years.

MEGA PARK A SUPER-GREEN €22 million mega park is taking shape on the Costa del Sol. The huge 36 acre space will count on 2,000 trees and 20,000 plants when finally finished. The ‘green lung’ in Mijas - said to be the largest such space in Malaga province is due to be finished by early 2025. Stretching from Cerros de Aguila to La Venta de la Morena, the project has already been underway for seven years and will have an outdoor amphitheater, skate park, running tracks, bike lanes and a climbing wall.

HAMLET BACK ON THE MARKET Owners look for €280,000 profit by flipping entire village bought for just €300,000 a year ago

Toledo constructor Oscar Torres a year ago. EVER fancied being lord of the The village consists of 44 houses, a bar, manor? Well now’s your chance after an a church, a school, abandoned hamlet went back on a swimming pool, a sports centre and sale again. Salto de Castro, in Castilla y León, a former Guardia was only bought for €300,000 by Civil barracks, but minus any residents. Just 100 metres from Portugal’s border in the isolated Zamora province, it had been set to become a rural tourist hub. But now, after various architectural ‘improvements’ it has gone back on the market for €580,000. It is in the heart of the Meseta Iberica UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with stunning views of the Douro River. Last year's sale LOCATION, LOCATION: Salto sits overlooking the Douro river by the Portugal border was said to have By Alex Trelinski

attracted offers from Saudi Arabia, Brazil and the UK as well as 20 other investors. The entire community was constructed by Iberdrola in the 1940s to house workers building the dam adjacent to AMENITIES: Include a church, school and sports centre it, however, once the project was finished, it was aban- Experts have estimated it will cost doned and has stood empty for around €2 million to make it workable as a key visitor attraction. more than 30 years.

CAPITAL DREAMING: Madrid is one of the hot spots to live MADRID is the fourth most desirable city to live in for people moving abroad. Only Paris, Miami and Dubai come before the Spanish capital as the dream destination to relocate to. It was the city most searched to move to in eight countries around the world. But it was the Middle Eastern metropolis of Dubai that took the top spot, according to Google search data. ‘Move to Dubai’ was the top search in 60 countries, including the UK, US and Australia. The coastal city of Miami came in second with Paris coming in third spot. Madrid came fourth, tying with New York and Singapore, while London and Brussels were tied for fifth place.

Madrid is, in particular, a popular destination with Latin Americans, ranking top in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Uruguay and the Dominican Republic. Barcelona was also popular in Latin America, taking the top spot in Colombia. Spain shares a common language with many countries in Latin America, making it an attractive destination. In 2022, 820,000 Latin Americans lived in Madrid, almost 50% more than in 2015. In particular, Madrid is attractive due to the wealth of job opportunities, with 16% of Spain’s jobs found in the capital. The city is also home to one of the

best public transport systems in Europe, vibrant neighbourhoods, great nightlife and connections to cities all over the continent. It is also a multicultural hub, with people from all over the world calling it home. The results were unearthed by website Remitly, which offers financial services for immigrants. Researchers analysed 164 countries, identifying which location was most searched for using the term ‘move to [city]’. Although Dubai was the most popular city overall, North America was the most sought after continent, with cities in both the US and Canada in the top seven ranking.

PROPERTY

MORTGAGE WOES

November 15th - November 28th 2023 LUXURY: The Kempinski sits right by an Estepona beach

THE average new mortgage is at a 15-year high. The official average rate granted in Spain in September reached 4.4% - its highest level since February 2009, when it stood at 4.3%. The average rate has risen for the 19th consecutive month. The 12-month Euribor rate, the index to which most mortgages are linked, closed September at 4.15% compared to 4.07% in August and 2.23% in September 2022.

Mixed picture FOREIGNERS buying homes in Spain between January and June accounted for 21.4% of the total number of transactions, despite a 7.5% drop compared to the same period in 2022, according to statistics from the General Council of Notaries. Despite the drop in transactions, the average price paid by foreigners was €2,095/m2, up 1.4% year-on-year, and the highest figure since the end of 2008. Non-Spaniards wanting to pay the highest prices were led by those from Sweden and Denmark.

SNAPPED UP ONE of the Costa del Sol’s best known five star hotels has been snapped up by a British investment fund. The five-star Kempinski Hotel, in Estepona, was

FINE DINING: On the terrace and (right) fantastic views

Giant UK investment fund splashes up to €60 million on well-known Costa del Sol five-star hotel

By Walter Finch

acquired for a cool €58 million, according to reports. The London & Regional fund now owns the hotel which boasts 145 rooms and suites, three pools, a spa, five bars and restaurants, as well as six meeting rooms for events. Sources initially indicated the owners aimed to get €70 million for the property. However, the final agreement is under-

stood to be around €58 million. It brings the investment fund’s portfolio in Spain to nine properties, featuring both national and international hotel chains. This comprises a total of 2,988 rooms, with the biggest being Sol Principe hotel in Torremolinos with 799 rooms, followed by Sol Palmanova, in Magaluf, in Mallorca, with 653. The others are Innside Ibiza, Le Meridien Barcelona, ME Ibiza & Nikki Beach, Nobu Ibiza, Sol Lanzarote, and Vincci Marbella Estrella del Mar. The first two hotels were acquired in Barcelona and Ibiza in 2014, followed by another in Malaga in 2016, and the rest in 2017.

952 147 834 * Vo l u n t a r y i n s u r a n c e c o v e r. S u b j e c t t o c o m p a n y u n d e r w r i t i n g c o n d i t i o n s . * D a t a e x t r a c t e d f r o m p r o c e s s c l o s u r e s u r v e y s a f t e r u s i n g o u r R o a d s i d e A s s i s t a n c e a n d b r e a k d o w n s e r v i c e s .

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PROPERTY

November 15th - November 28th 2023

BE SQUARE RIOT OF COLOUR: A courtyard in Cordoba, made famous for its geraniums

The Spanish have long understood that courtyards offer a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living

The tradition of Spanish courtyards dates back to ancient times, with influences from various civilizations such as the Romans and Moors. These courtyards were originally designed as central gathering spaces within homes, providing natural light, ventilation,

and a sense of privacy. They served as oases from the bustling city streets, offering a serene retreat for relaxation and contemplation. Throughout history, Spanish courtyards have also played a significant role in social and cultural gatherings. They have been venues for celebrations, music and dance performances, and even religious ceremonies. The iconic ‘patio’ in Spain, often adorned with colourful tiles, intricate ironwork, and lush greenery, has become a symbol of Spanish identity and a testament to the rich architectural heritage of the country.

SPANISH COURTYARD DESIGN ELEMENTS Spanish courtyards are characterised by a unique blend of architectural and design features that create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. One of the key elements is the use of water features, such as fountains or small pools, which not only provide a soothing sound but also cool the surrounding air. INCORPORATING A SPANISH COURTYARD INTO YOUR HOME Bringing the essence of a Spanish courtyard into your home can transform any space into a tranquil oasis. Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony, there are various ways to incorporate the elements of a Spanish courtyard into your interior design. If you have a spacious outdoor area, consider creating a dedicated courtyard space. Start by defining the space with a pergola or trellis, providing shade and privacy. Incorporate a water feature, such as a fountain or a small pond, to add a calming ambiance. Use colorful tiles on the walls or floors to infuse the space with vibrancy. Complete the look with comfortable outdoor furniture and potted plants to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. For those with limited outdoor space, consider creating a mini Spanish courtyard indoors. Choose a sunny spot near a window and designate it as your courtyard area. Use large potted plants to create a green oasis, and hang colorful tiles on the wall as a focal point. Incorporate a small water feature, such as a tabletop fountain, to add a soothing element. By carefully selecting furniture and decor that reflect the essence of Spanish courtyards, you can create a charming and inviting space within your home.

COBBLES: At Palacio de Viana the detail is extraordinary

These water features often serve as the focal point of the courtyard, drawing the eye and creating a sense of tranquility. Another essential design element is the use of vibrant and colourful tiles. Spanish tiles, known as ‘azulejos,’ are renowned for their intricate patterns and bold hues. From geometric shapes to floral motifs, these tiles add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the courtyard. Whether used on the walls, floors,

or even as decorative accents, they instantly infuse the space with chaOLIVE PRESS racter and charm. NOLOTILisWARNIN Incorporating natural elements also crucial in Spanish courtyard design. Lush greenery, such as potted plants, climbing vines, and citrus trees, adds a refreshing touch of nature to the space. Wooden pergolas or trellises covered in flowering vines provide shade and create a cozy atmosphere. 952 147 834 Additionally, the use of natural materials, such as stone, terracotta, and wrought iron, adds an authentic and rustic touch to the overall design. BOTTOMS UP: The Olive Press chooses... The

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PANISH courtyards have long been admired for their timeless beauty and tranquility. These exquisite outdoor spaces have played a significant role in Spanish architecture and culture for centuries. Today, they continue to inspire interior designers around the world, as they seamlessly blend the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. The history and cultural significance of these courtyards, will help you incorporate the essence of them into your own home.

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W OUT: Roca leaving jail after 12 years, while (above) Pantoja and Muñoz were seldom off the celebrity pages

E at the Olive Press are always keen to talk to our readers to get constructive comments and feedback. After all, without readers – whether for printed papers or our website and online platforms – there is little point to our job. But one question we continually get online when faced with our paywall introduced in 2020 is 'What do I get for my money?’ ‘Why should I pay? And ‘What am I paying for?' The answer is simple: What you get is journalism… paying for people who excel at storytelling and uncovering information. Paying for journalists to do the work they love and the job they were trained to do. Being behind a paywall frees us from the tyranny of hated 'clickbait journalism'.

A former waiter, Muñoz – nicknamed ‘Cachuli’ or ‘chancer’ – also successfully rose from nothing to become the mayor of Marbella in little more than a decade. As the boyfriend of the famous singer Isabel Pantoja, his face frequently appeared in gossip magazines throughout Spain. During his short term of office he publicly fell out with Roca who had him ousted as mayor. He was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for perverting the course of justice, embezzlement and bribery, but released in 2021 due to a ‘severe and incurable illness’.

Despite this claim, he has been regularly spotted at the Real Padel club in Marbella and various golf clubs, enjoying cheeseburgers and glasses of wine.

Isabel Pantoja

Famous singer and ex-girlfriend of Muñoz, Pantoja was charged in a separate case and faced a huge fine and three years in prison, for helping Muñoz launder the money he received in bribes. The star was also accused of obtaining large sums of money during her relationship with the former mayor. In 2014, seven years after her arrest, she was handed two years in prison for money laundering and ordered to pay €1.15 million in fines. She spent less than 18 months behind bars before being released on licence.

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Not very emotional. But when I talk about the nightmares I burst into tears, I cry my eyes out. Every single one scared me to death.” “After only taking a few tablets over four days, I was in serious trouble. I was very fortunate because I am a strong person. I often think, thank goodness I stopped taking them because I might not have survived otherwise.” In the years following his experience, Patrick says doctors have suggested his case could have in-part inspired the 2018 regulations. He said: “It’s good but I feel cheated by the fact that all they’ve done is create an advisory and not a statute.” “From my point of view, the question is what is a life worth? The problem is that it is a very good painkiller and it must be cheap because they dish them out like smarties.” “Something needs to be done because people are still being affected. Others will suffer because they are turning a blind eye.” Now, Cristina Garcia del Campo, an activist who has been fighting for greater restrictions on the drug, has launched a lawsuit against the Spanish Ministry of Health due to their inaction over Nolotil. She urges those concerned to support the Asociación De Afectados Por Fármacos (Association for Those Affected by Pharmaceuticals) or donate to their Go Fund Me.

Jose Avila Rojas

Born in Granada, Avila Rojas is another of the many contractors involved in the case. He was sentenced to a total of three-and-a-half years in prison and ordered to pay €16 million in fines.

Tomas Olivo Lopez

Among his many projects, business mogul Lopez owns a number of shopping centres including La Cañada in Marbella and the controversial Centro Nevada, in Granada. He had been facing five years imprisonment and fines of up to €4.8 million after being investigated in the case, however he was eventually absolved in 2018 and went on to win a staggering €165 million from the Junta, whom he sued for paralysing works on a business complex.

Pedro Tomas Reñones Grego

A retired footballer who once captained Atletico Madrid, he became a councillor in Marbella in 1999 for the Grupo Independiente Liberal (GIL), founded by long-time Atletico president, Jesus Gil y Gil. After the local mayor was arrested he briefly took office in 2006 as an interim mayor, but was soon arrested himself. He was sentenced to five years and six months in prison in 2016 on fraud and briber y charges.

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VICTIM: Patrick was put into a coma for six weeks

Nicknamed the Lady of Marbella, the Catalan lawyer was accused of being one of the main stooges for Roca. Branded the mala mas sexy (sexiest baddy) of the case by gossip magazines, it is thought she was in charge of Roca’s investments and under his supervision became responsible for his money laundering in Madrid and Marbella. She was sentenced to three-and-a-half years for money laundering in 2016 and was handed a mammoth fine of €30 million.

Marisol Yague

A former singer, Yague (above) was appointed as mayor by Roca following a vote of no confidence against Muñoz in 2003. According to investigators she was Roca’s puppet, visiting him at his offices on Mondays to receive instructions and she allegedly took €1.8m in bribes from him. In October 2013, she was sentenced to six years in prison and handed fines of more than €2 million. She went to prison in January 2016 and a year later received another two-year sentence for embezzlement for using granite and marble from the municipal warehouse to renovate her house, called La Madrugada.

November 2023

The incredible allure of crafty courtyards has been turned into an artform in Spain, some with roses, others with geraniums and palms. We take a look at some with simply their history.

CREDIT: Photo by Jon Clarke

Julian Muñoz

With the knowledge that money is coming in, we do not have to chain our reporters to their desks to continually chase page views. Thanks to those people who have signed up for just €1.50 per week (often less), we can afford to free our journalists to do what they do best – get out and about, meet people and report back to you, our readers. It is how we spent a few days in Ibiza tracking down the dodgy fashion boss accused of molesting young models and how we spent months probing the movements of dangerous sex offender Christian Brueckner around Spain and Portugal. Then there was the week spent tracking down the former ETA terrorist who had inspired hit BBC drama Killing Eve in Extremadura. And more recently to Granada, to bring unrivalled coverage of the dramatic three-day hunger strike launched by the mother of ousted football boss Luis Rubiales. A testament to the quality of our reporting, it was picked up by The Telegraph, the Sun and even a string of Spanish national newspapers. Closer to home, we always strive to be first on the scene to bring you the latest updates. This week we spoke to expats diroperty rectly affected by the devastating fire in Mijas, who told us of their Courted by courtyards horror of waking up to blackened skies and ash-covered balconies. We also had reporters on the scene in Madrid, where violent anti-government protests have been taking place for more than a week ahead of caretaker PM STAY IN THE NEST! Y Pedro Sanchez’s investiture vote. Meanwhile our widely-read Property Magazine is packed with original content - including the story of how a Brit transformed a run-down farmhouse in Granada into a stunning two-bedroom home. We have had hundreds of new subscribers in recent weeks. VARIETY: Palacio de las Dueñas in Sevilla to a typical Cordoba patio and a modern design

OUNGSTERS in Spain among the oldest in Europeare to flee the nest. The average age is an incredible 31 years,to leave home the third hising stock is 'social housing' By Alex Trelinski ghest on the continent. to 7% in other OECD nations.compared Only Greeks and Slovakians leave The report did however home later. of optimism over the new sound a note continually rising prices. The percentage of young Housing Law, with their parents is over adults living It blames the ‘difficult transition from which is seeking to ‘address the lack of affordable housing’ through case of 18 to 34 year olds, 60% in the education to the labour market’ regulations and and 50% for adds it creates 25 to 34 year olds. ‘a difficult transition to and tax measures. The plan to allocate 40% independent life for The lack of affordable housing of new resiin cities High rental prices young Spaniards’. dential construction to social and popular tourist spots, mean youngsters housing costas and the Balearic including the priced out of the market, while there are half of it for social rental units - ‘could Islands, is the critically low is key issue. supply of council housing.a generate benefits for lower-income households’, ruled the report. According to the report According to a new OECD average rents mic Survey on housing across Econo- have risen by 40% over the last decade “But only if carefully monitored to ensure Europe, compared to just that such inclusionary zoning Spain has a long-standing 10% in salaries. does not issue due to Yet, alarmingly, reduce incentives to start only 1% of Spain's houor drive up market prices,” new projects it added.

Lack of affordable housing is keeping Spaniards at home into their 30s

NOT LEAVING: Spanish

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Expats caught in the web It’s not just the Spaniards that got caught up in this huge operation. A total of 11 foreigners were also embroiled in the scandal. These included the German countess Alexandra Sybilla Sofie Grafin Von Bismark, Roca’s employee, Swedish born Karin Marika Mattson, Sergio Gilbert Garcia, born in Gibraltar, and Salvador Gardoqui Arias from France who was known to be one of Roca’s front-men.

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MINISTER for Finance Nigel Feetham has said he is ‘confident’ of being able to ease Gibraltar off the greylist of financial jurisdictions. Feetham chaired a meeting to prepare for a visit of the MoneyVal Onsite Inspection team to Gibraltar in

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THE wealthiest people in Spain got richer by 37% last year despite the Ukraine war and inflation according to the latest Forbes list. Inditex fashion group founder Amancio Ortega - who has been on top since 2014 - saw his fortune grow by 53% to €81.8 billion. The stock market revaluation of Inditex contributed to this,

but also the fact that the valuation of Pontegadea - Amancio Ortega’s investment arm in the real estate business shows it is worth almost €15 billion. With a net worth of €8.8 billion, the founder of Inditex climbs eight steps in the

TELECOM SWOOP VODAFONE SPAIN has been sold to UK telecoms investor Zegona Communications in a deal valued at up to €5 billion. Zegona will pay at least €4.1 billion in cash and a further €900 million in financing taking the form of preference shares. Vodafone Spain is the third biggest telecoms network in the country after Movistar-Telefonica and Orange. The group launched a strategic review of the business in Spain earlier this year after suffering hefty sales falls, blaming a highly competitive market.

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again in February. Feetham said in an X (Twitter) post that he was ‘investing significant time and effort into it’ and would ‘get the job done’. “I am pleased the preparations are at an advanced stage,” Feetham said.

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ranking of the largest fortunes in the world and now lies in 13th place internationally. The top five in Spain – Amancio Ortega and his daughter Sandra (Inditex); Rafael del Pino (Ferrovial); Juan Carlos Escotet (Abanca) and Juan Roig TOP MAN: Amancio Ortega is the (Mercadona) are richest person in Spain worth a combined €102.7 billion. in third place, although his Amancio Ortega’s fortune is fortune has grown by 55.3%. more than double the sum of The chairman and largthe rest of the fortune holders est shareholder of Abanca, that make up the top 10. Juan Carlos Escotet, with a His daughter Sandra is sec- fortune of €4 billion, 25% ond in the list and the only more, is in fourth place this woman in the top five with year and displaces the chair€7.1 billion - 31.5% more than man of Mercadona, Juan last year. Roig, in fifth place, with The chairman of Ferrovial, €3.9 billion - up 14.7%. Rafael Del Pino y Calvo-Sotelo, with €5.9 billion, remains

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the next few weeks. The Paris-based group said this would be the last step before the Rock’s case would be considered

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Across 1 Harp on about Jane Eyre, for example (6) 5 Encourage (6) 8 Performed surgery (8) 9 Quartz grains (4) 10 Punch (4) 11 Transcendent (7) 13 Jericho was, until Joshua arrived (6) 16 Bury (6) 19 Profits (7) 22 Copies (4) 23 Duration (4) 24 Magnificent (8) 25 Vigour (6) 26 Clear a channel (6) Down 2 Reproduction (7) 3 Injurious (7) 4 Short letters (5) 5 Loud enough to be heard (7) 6 Uncooked meal suitable for Fridays, maybe (5) 7 Anger about scope (5) 12 Holstein holler? (3) 14 Shelter (3) 15 Think it probable (4,3) 17 Learner (7) 18 Assembly (7) 19 Get ready to eat (5) 20 General meaning (5) 21 Reliable (5) 23 Blows away (4) 24 Cooking measure (4)

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FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

CUTTING REMARKS

ANOTHER bastion of Spanish cuisine has been brutalised in the eyes of Spain’s netizens - this time in China. A video has gone viral of a female market stall worker chopping up a cherished leg of Spanish jamon with a meat cleaver. She takes to the leg - which is almost as big as her - with great sweeping chops. It is a far cry from the delicate slices favoured by true jamon aficionados, which is considered an art form in Spain. Through brute force - including lifting up the leg itself and smashing it down repeatedly - she manages to get the blade through the hunk of meat. Online Spaniards had a few choice words, with one user demanding that she be sent to jail for her culinary crime. Another commented: “Just when there was nothing in this world left for me to see.”

CHOP: Ham is assaulted

November 15th - November 28th 2023

Football crazy

Sevilla FC ‘steal’ plane leaving 80 passengers with 5 hour bus journey instead AIR NOSTRUM has been slammed for turfing passengers off a Vigo to Madrid flight at the last minute to make way for a bunch of footballers. The scheduled service transformed into a charter flight to take home Sevilla FC players and coaches after a match at Celta Vigo. The La Liga side's original charter plane could not be used due to a technical problem so they took over the Air Nostrum craft. Passengers stood agog as they waited in line to board at Peinador Airport and were passed by the

By Alex Trelinski

Catch and cook

Sevilla FC squad. One unhappy traveller fumed on social media, writing: "We are still at the airport with no word about the theft of the plane by Sevilla."

Bus

The controversial decision by the carrier meant that 80 passengers had to make a 600 kms bus journey to Madrid lasting five hours, as opposed to the original hour-long flight

GIBRALTAR’S new minister for tourism said he wants to get the government working with local companies after he took part in the World Travel Market in London recently. Organisers of the event describe it as ‘the most influential three days in the travel industry’, and this year Gibraltar was in the thick of it. Minister Christian Santos manned the Gibraltar stand along with tourist board CEO Kevin Bossino and even writer Esme Young, one of the speakers at this year’s international

time. Passengers are reported to have missed national and international connections as a result of the enforced switch. “This only happens in a banana republic where football is allowed to take

Travelling times

literary festival. For Santos it was his first international tourism conference as minister, after his predecessor Vijay Daryanani lost his seat at the last election. The World Travel Market London started in 1980 at Olympia London with 350 exhibitors and nearly 8,000 visitors. Nowadays, there are 5,000 exhibitors and about 10 times as many attendees every year.

everything and everyone by surprise,” said an irate traveller. Air Nostrum apologised 'profusely' for the incident, and said it would be contacting all affected passengers to compensate them for the inconvenience caused. Spain's consumer association, FACUA, has reported Air Nostrum to the Galicia Consumer Affair's department as well as the national Ministry of Consumer Affairs. FACUA has argued that the carrier infringed consumer protection laws, and it has also filed a complaint with Spain's Aviation Safety Agency which has launched an investigation.

TEACHERS at Gibraltar’s two secondary schools have given students the chance to catch, clean, cook and serve their own fish as part of their studies. Local fishing expert Lee Torres took the teens out to Gibraltar’s waters to live the thrill of dropping their lines into the water to reel in their own Albacore fish. Students then took the fish back to their schools where the government said ‘the real culinary adventure began’ as they prepared, cooked and served their catch. Dubbed ‘from sea to plate’, the educational trip was part of the Food Preparation and Nutrition A-level course. “The educational experience took students out into the Bay, where they were able to develop a life skill in catching their own Albacore fish with local expert Lee Torres,” the government explained in a statement.

LA CULTURA

DON QUI-NOT

The 10 tomes you must read to shine a light on Spain that you may never have heard of, according to Yzabelle Bostyn

November 15th - November 28th 2023 ANDALUS

by Jason Webster This book delves deep into the Moorish legacy of modern Andalucia, as the author embarks on an adventure accompanied by Zine, a Moroccan immigrant, who has recently escaped from slave labour at a fruit farm. A ‘rollercoaster’ ride through the region, it unveils Spain’s Arab ancestry evident in its food, language and culture.

THE HIVE

by Camilo Jose Cela Banned for many years during Franco’s dictatorship, this book captures the stark reality of post Civil War Spain for Madrilenos. Featuring over 100 unique characters whose lives intertwine, the novel is a social documentary filled with violence, longing and unexpected tenderness.

VERYONE has heard of Don Quixote, but book lovers who expand their reading lists beyond the classics will be rewarded with an indepth look at this diverse country. That’s why the Olive Press has compiled a list of lesser-known novels that best represent each region of Spain. From mysteries to adventures to historical fiction, there’s something for every bookworm.

BUENO

by Christy Esmahan

THE SHADOW OF THE WIND by Carlos Ruis Zafron

After his brother dies in Northern Spain, an American headmaster decides to discover the place his brother loved for himself. Pressured to make changes to the school, he meets much resistance. Set against the mountains of Santander, this is a tale of resistance, sympathy and multiculturalism.

This magical novel will transport you to the winding streets of Barcelona’s Gothic quarter as 10-year-old Daniel uncovers the secrets of the ‘Cemetery of Lost Books’. A labyrinthine library, the boy is allowed to pick one volume from its collection of dusty novels, choosing The Shadow of the Wind by Julian Carax. As he grows, so does a mysterious stranger´s interest in the book. Daniel must race to find the truth before it is too late under a continual backdrop of Catalan monuments and geography.

OBABAKOAK by Bernardo Atxaga There is no one who captures this unique region of the Basque Country like Bernardo Atxaga. Obaba, the novel’s fictional town, represents the area with its typical pelota court, fountain and church. The story is told through the peculiar tales of the town’s inhabitants, a geography teacher holding onto an old love, a boy lost in the forest, a young woman trying to get through the long winter alone. The novel has won many awards and been described as the ‘novel of the 20th century’.

IBERIA

by James Michener Any traveller to Spain would think to start their trip in the famed cities of Barcelona, Madrid or Sevilla. Not James Michener. He cared little for kings and cathedrals, searching instead for the humble shepherd. In this novel he retraces the steps of conquistadors who set out from the Extremaduran towns of Trujillo and Medellin in search of the ‘new world’, returning to these sleepy, agricultural areas to find the true spirit of Spain.

THE CARPENTER’S PENCIL by Manuel Rivas TUNING UP AT DAWN by Tomas Graves

MALL

ORCA

Capturing the joy of Mallorcan summer days full of music, it celebrates the island’s traditions t o a soundtrack of international stars including Jimi Hendrix, Bob Geldof and Sinead O’Connor. Tomas Graves is the son of legendary I, Claudius writer Robert Graves, who ended up in Mallorca by a happy accident. Tomas’ love for the island shines through the pages with his delightful musical escapades.

A haunting reflection of the Spanish Civil War, The Carpenter’s Pencil sketches the destinies of a cast of unique characters caught in a national tragedy. Narrated from both sides of the conflict, the book offers an unflinching view of this complicated period of Spanish history through the eyes of the Galicians. Despite horror and hardship, the book captures the enduring tenderness of the human spirit and in 2001, it was adapted for the big screen.

LAKE OF DREAMS: CAÑAS Y BARRO

by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez

Set at the turn of the century, this prolific writer tells the story of a Spanish family living on the shores of the now famous Albufera lake. An honest depiction of life as a working class Spaniard among the radical changes of the industrial revolution, the novel is now considered to be one of the top 100 Spanish novels of the 20th century.

THE YELLOW RAIN by Julio Llamarzes

High in the Spanish pyrenees, the last remaining resident of a deserted town, Ainielle, reflects on his life. Written as a monologue, Ainelle has only his words to keep him company as he conjures up ghosts of past friends and neighbours. As he reflects on the joys and tragedies of his life, Ainelle’s story is a heartbreaking tale of sorrow, s o l i tude and memory.

HEALTH OPEN FOR SERVICE

November 15th - November 28th 2023

Quitting record

OVER 100 people booked an appointment to stop smoking in Gibraltar after last month’s Stoptober campaign, the health service said. The number is the highest ever recorded at one time in Gibraltar after the 28-day mass quitting challenge run throughout October by the Gibraltar Health Authority. Director of Public Health Helen Carter congratulated everyone who quit during the campaign and said their bodies would already be starting to feel the effects. The positive figures come after a local health expert revealed that smoking was behind 95% of the lung cancer cases on the Rock, even higher than the global proportion.

IT was back in 2008 that British surgeon David Deardon first aspired to open a private hospital in Gibraltar. Now, 15 years later, his hard work and planning has finally seen the opening of the GibMed International Hospital in the heart of the enclave. “It has been a long journey full of fun, trauma and stress,” he admitted at the launch of the two-floor facility. “After looking at nine different sites around the Rock, negotiating with numerous people, I finally got planning permission in 2021,” he told the Olive

Health minister congratulates team on the stunning new hospital in Gibraltar Press. But it wasn’t until 4am on one late night this summer that the dream finally seemed to be coming to fruition. “Watching a convoy of lorries backed up along Main Street as a Spanish firm winched in our machines through a hole in the roof was very stressful, but we got there in the end,” added the father-of-two.

As well as thanking his wife, Sophie, Deardon particularly praised his Chief of Staff, Karen Bolt, who started working with him at the Specialist Medical Clinic as a receptionist in 2008. Based in prestigious Casemates Square the two-storey facility counts on 40 consultants and specialists, plus the

OP Puzzle solutions

No energy

RELIEF: David Deardon latest state-of-the-art MRI and CT scanners. It will also offer ‘minimally invasive day surgery and diagnostics centre’ and provide patient-focused care across a wide spectrum of conditions, including dermatology, orthopaedic and women’s health. The hospital will have close links with other medical institutions in the UK and Spain creating ‘a tailor-made clinical care package to suit your every need’.

Deal

Quick Crossword Across: 1 Orphan, 5 Assure, 8 Operated, 9 Sand, 10 Biff, 11 Sublime, 13 Walled, 16 Entomb, 19 Returns, 22 Apes, 23 Span, 24 Splendid, 25 Energy, 26 Dredge. Down: 2 Replica, 3 Harmful, 4 Notes, 5 Audible, 6 Sushi, 7 Range, 12 Moo, 14 Lee, 15 Dare say, 17 Trainee, 18 Meeting, 19 Ripen, 20 Tenor, 21 Solid. HAPPY: Young fan

Gibraltar Health Minister Gemma Arias-Vasquez congratulated the team on the launch and confirmed the government had already agreed a deal to use the MRI and CT scanners. “The repatriation of services starts here for our Gibraltar patients. “Thanks for allowing us this facility to do that… to bring all services closer to the Gibraltarians.”

HEALTH experts in Andalusia want the region to follow in the footsteps of Galicia, and ban the sale of energy drinks to the under-18s. The College of Physicians in Malaga made the official request to the regional government on Thursday, arguing that the drinks are ‘genuinely harmful’ to health. The doctors also claim that in recent years the consumption of energy drinks has risen among minors, and that they have incorporated them into their daily routines ‘as if they were just another kind of soft drink’. The College points to studies that show that the drinks are harmful to health, and wants the region to take similar action to Galicia. From 2024, there will be a ban in the northwestern territory of their sale to the under-18s. The chairman of the College, Pedro Navarro, has now called on not just Andalucia, but all regions to ban the sale of the drinks to minors. “We need to protect young people from substances that are damaging to their health,” he said.

ANIMAL COVER Liberty's pet insurance sales up 25% in last six months

ADVERTORIAL

IBERTY SEGUROS' pet insurance has grown by 25% in the past six months, surpassing one million euros in annual revenue. According to company data, this growth follows the trend of the last two years, as this segment grew by 12.7% in 2021 and 13.6% in 2022. The new Law on Animal Welfare, which came into force on 29 September, makes it compulsory for dog owners to have civil liability insurance. And this fact has been reflected in the demand for both Civil Liability insurance, which in August alone has shot up by 623%, and Liberty's specific product for pets, which in the same month has increased by 70%. However, compulsory civil liability insurance for natural or legal persons owning dogs will not be effectively applicable until the corresponding regulatory development takes place. In this sense, Liberty stresses that behind the growth of these insurances recently there is also a growing concern of pet owners to cover their main needs and risks. José Luis García Camiñas, Liberty's Executive Director of Product in Europe, says: “We expect this segment to continue to grow in the future not only because of increased regulatory requirements but also because of society's growing concern to protect the welfare of their pets and to have cover for issues such as veterinary expenses, theft and travel assistance. Specifically, more than 90% of the claims reported to Liberty under pet insurance correspond to veterinary expenses. The rest correspond to the death of the animal, liability issues and theft or kidnapping”. The number of dogs in Spain is estimated to be more than nine million, but having them insured is not a widespread practice. This contrasts with countries such as the USA where 70% of households have a pet and between 20% and 25% of them, especially dogs and cats, are insured. In the EU, 25% of EU households have a dog, according to the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). "Due to all of these factors, this insurance product, which was initially demanded by residents in Spain from other countries, and which has been increasingly

valued by national clients, presents a significant growth potential in the for thcoming years", says José Luis García Camiñas. Main changes that Spain’s new animal welfare law will bring The Animal Welfare Law, which came into force on 29 September, establishes new obligations for pets, and in particular for dog owners. One of these is the obligation to have Civil Liability insurance to cover possible damages and injuries caused by dogs, whatever their breed, to other people, animals, or things. However, this obligation will not be effectively applicable until the regulatory development of the rule takes place. On the other hand, the classification of potentially dangerous dogs (PPP) disappears and the concept of special dog handling is created. An individualised sociability study will determine whether a dog is a special dog handling. In addition, a compulsory training course for dog owners will be introduced. The development of these two elements is also still awaiting a regulation. Customised Insurance also for Pets Liberty Seguros has comprehensive insurance policies for pets, a product that is defined by its many adjustment options to provide protection for the insured animal against risks such as accident and illness and which can be taken out as a basic package with the possibility of adding others with optional guarantees. As for civil liability, it also offers specific insurance for this legal cover for damage to third parties or as optional cover within home insurance. José Luis García Camiñas explains: “Each pet owner can personalise their pet policy in the way that best meets their particular needs and pay only for what they really need”.

VISIT WWW.LIBERTYEXPATRIATES.ES FOR MORE INFORMATION OR CALL 91 342 25 49 FOR THE NAME OF YOURNEARES AGENT/BROKER.

Are you suffering from anxiety? Are you depressed? Are your children having social issues? PERHAPS YOU NEED SOMEONE PROFESSIONAL TO TALK TO I HOPE WE CAN HELP. CALL US IN CONFIDENCE.

Change through relocation abroad can also add to mental health pressures and these life changes are never easy. Counselling and therapy has changed the lives of many. Getting in touch is the first step. Recognising that there is an issue is the first step on the road to recovery. Help is available through our confidential counselling service.

+34 664 666 252 info@counselling4anxiety.eu www.counselling4anxiety.eu

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Hello Komodo

FINAL WORDS

Fuengirola Biopark has hatched Spain’s first Komodo dragon in 10 years and only the fifth in Europe. Juanito was born alongside his identical twin, Boqueron, who did not survive.

Water gift The Arcosur Principe de Benalmádena aparthotel has donated 200,000 litres of water to the town council after having to empty its pool for maintenance. It will be used for cleaning.

Super speed Hypersonic planes that can fly from Madrid to New York in just 90 minutes may be available by 2030 as a US company, Hermeus, is developing the 125 passenger planes.

OLIVE PRESS

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Vol. 8 Issue 211 www.theolivepress.es November 15th - November 28th 2023

Sisters of sushi

VINTAGE CROP

‘Work hard but don’t get upset’: Spanish family have a combined age of well over a thousand! NOT many ‘babies of the family’ can get to the fine old age of 76 and have 11 older siblings all still alive. But that’s the case for the Hernandez-Perez family, whose 12 brothers and sisters regularly dine together at weekends. Now Guinness World Records has honoured the family - including 76-year-old ‘baby’ Luis - as being world champions.

By Walter Finch

The combined ages of the Gran Canaria natives reach an astounding 1,074 years - an entire millenia encapsulated in one set of siblings. It comes a year since they set a new world record for the highest combined age of 12 living siblings, dethroning the previ-

SPAIN has taken on the USA on their home turf and brought back three medals from the World Beach Ultimate Frisbee Championships. Ultimate Frisbee sees teams weave a disc between players t o score in a goal area known as an ‘endzone’ in a sport that was invented in California. In recent years, the sport has grown in

HAPPY FAMILY: The long-lived siblings ous holders in Pakistan. They recently got together for a celebratory meal, where they shared some of their secrets. Big brother Jose, affectionately

FLYING HIGH popularity in Spain, with over 50 clubs and 1,000 players. The national teams picked up silver medals in the open and mixed categories at the contest held in California, with the women’s side achieving bronze.

known as ‘Pepe’, is the oldest at 98 years old. He attributes his longevity to a simple motto: “Live peacefully, don’t get upset and work hard.” The long-living dozen, from the village of Villa de Moya, have spent their lives in each other’s company, working in the local fields. This, they say, is part of their secret to maintaining their health. Scientists might also want to take a look at what’s in their genome, too. Mama Martina passed away in 1991 at the age of 91, while papa Modesto died in November 2002, at 105 years old.

WHILE most cloistered nuns specialise in making sweets or pastries for religious occasions, Granada’s Carmelita order has gone viral for their delicious sushi and noodles. The five Filipino nuns behind the scheme have revolutionised the nunnery with their unique culinary offering, which allows them to maintain sales throughout the year. The Carmelite Descalzas del Realejo Convent has seen sales soar overnight with their Spanish-Asian fusion which went viral after being featured on Spanish news channels Tele5 and Canal Sur. As well as sushi, the sisters offer noodles, gyozas and Filipino stews.

Hard luck

A LOTTERY winner who was set to collect €2,000-a-month for five years has died before claiming a penny. The man, from Lastres, Austrias won the second place EuroDreams prize. The soon-to-be married man’s winnings will now go to his heirs in a one off payment of €120,000.