Olive Press Gibraltar Issue 231

NATIONAL PRIDE

We celebrate Gibraltar’s biggest and best day with our special 8-page supplement inside

LAST DITCH

Spain’s foreign minister to fly to London this month in an attempt to save post-Brexit deal on Gibraltar

By Simon Hunter

SPANISH Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares will make a visit to London in the coming weeks as part of a last-ditch effort to save a post-Brexit deal on Gibraltar.

Albares will be meeting with his new British counterpart, David Lammy, to try to hammer out the British Overseas Territory’s relationship with the European Union now that the UK has left the bloc.

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo is already in London meeting with Lammy ahead of time in preparation for the showdown talks.

The clock is ticking for the deal to be struck, given that the EU’s negotiating team is expected to be renewed in November, while around the same time the EU’s new Entry/Exit System for the automatic monitoring of border crossings in the Schengen Area will come into force.

The introduction of the system will mean that the border crossing between Gibraltar and Spain will be subject to the same con trols as if the British Ter ritory were a third country.

Sefcovic (below), could then be held to seal the deal.

Since the Labour government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer took power in the UK, Albares and Lammy have met once, at the Nato summit in Washington on July 7.

They committed to improving bilateral relations between their countries and also said that they would strive to reach a deal on Gibraltar.

Star attraction

GRETA Scacchi is the first big name to be announced as attending this year’s Gibraltar Literary Festival Known for her roles in films such as Heat and Dust, White Mischief, Presumed Innocent, and The Player, Scacchi has captivated audiences worldwide for over four decades.

At the festival, Scacchi will be interviewed by film journalist and regular book festival host, Peter Guttridge.

The conversation will dive into her illustrious career, exploring her collaborations with international film stars and acclaimed directors. The Minister for Tourism, the Hon Christian Santos, said: “This event promises to be a highlight of the Literary Festival, offering valuable insights into the life and career of a global screen and stage star. The festival is being held between November 11 and 17.

Sources consult ed by El Pais said that if Albares and Lammy are able to come to an agreement, a three-way meeting with the vice-president of the European Commission, Maros

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has also met with Keir Starmer, on July 18 in Oxfordshire.

According to the Moncloa presidential palace, both said they were convinced that a Gibraltar deal was ‘very close’.

El Pais reported that the main sticking points between Spain and the UK are demands from Madrid that Spanish offi-

cers who man border posts and check arrivals in Gibraltar be armed and wear uniform, as well as being able to freely circulate around the border area.

The UK has rejected this demand given that British authorities are not usually armed.

Pension

Gibraltar’s chief minister, Fabian Picardo, has also rejected the possibility of uniformed Spanish officers inside the territory.

In other areas, meanwhile, agreement has already been reached.

For example, a special fund is going to be created by Spain and the UK so that Spaniards who have worked in Gibraltar but live in Spain will receive the same pension as those who reside in the British Overseas Territory.

SPAIN: Jose Manuel Albares

UK: David Lammy

STAR: Greta Scacchi

Pedro applause

SPANISH film director Pedro Almodovar received an ‘unprecedented’ 17-minute standing ovation on Monday at the premiere of his new film, The Room Next Door at the Venice Film Festival.

Scuba tragedy

A BRITISH tourist aged 59 has died after suffering a heart attack while scuba diving at a cove in the tourist resort of Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote.

Gas attack

BROADCASTER Nick Grimshaw and his 81-year-old mother Eileen were knocked out with gas and robbed while on holiday at an Ibiza villa.

Cruel summer

AUGUST saw jobless figures rise by 22,000 to 2,572,121, while the number of people signed up as workers with the Social Security system fell by 194,000 people to 21,189,402,.

A SERVING Royal Gibraltar Police officer has been arrested on suspicion of raping a colleague at New Mole House Police Station.

The 32-year-old local man was arrested by detectives from the force’s Professional Standards Department on suspicion of Sexual Assault, Attempted Rape and Misconduct in

THE summer season went out on a dark note in Gibraltar as the RGP made two arrests on suspicion of rape.

A 49-year-old man has been charged with a series of serious offenses in connection with an ongoing rape investigation.

Anthony Lombard, of Gavino's Dwelling, faces three counts of rape, one count of wounding with intent, and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The charges follow an extensive investigation launched by detectives from the Crime & Protective Services division on Sunday, September 1. Lombard was arrested that

Cop arrested

Public Office. The Gibraltarian was released on conditional bail and suspended from duty while an investigation is carried out. No further details have been released.

Dark days

Two arrests for rape made in Gibraltar over final weekend of the summer

By Walter Finch

evening and has remained in police custody since.

He appeared before the Magistrates' Court on Monday morning to face the charges.

The specific details of the al-

leged crimes have not been released, but the charges themselves indicate the severity of the situation.

Lombard was already known to police, having been banned from driving for a year and sentenced to 80 hours of unpaid work in 2022.

Officers had found him driv-

International robbery team

A PAIR of burglars have been arrested on suspicion of attempting a burglary on Devil’s Tower Road back in the spring.

Two men, a 21-year-old local and a 25-year-old British national, were spotted by a member of the public attempting to force entry into premises in the early hours of Saturday, August 31st.

Uniformed Response Team officers on patrol responded to the call and apprehended the suspects.

The men were taken into custody and later interviewed at New Mole House Police Station. Following the interviews, they were released on bail pending further investigation.

All-in-English Mobile & Fibre broadband

ing slowly in an Alfa Romeo on Scud Hill. When they stopped him, they found he smelled strongly of booze and slurred his speech.

Meanwhile, a 16-year-old male resident on the Rock was arrested on Sunday afternoon.

The alleged rape victim came forward to uniformed police in the city centre in the early hours of the previous day to report the crime.

Suspect

An extensive investigation by detectives narrowed in on the suspect during the course of the weekend until the arrest was made.

The investigation remains ongoing.

OFFICERS nabbed a suspected drug dealer after a vandalised car led them to his door.

In the course of their investigations, they arrested a 33-year-old local on suspicion of criminal damage and drug possession.

Response Team officers conducted a search warrant at the suspect's residence in Devil's Tower Road, resulting in the seizure of a significant quantity of cannabis resin and MDMA (ecstasy).

Approximately 500g of cannabis resin and 5g of MDMA were discovered, along with drug paraphernalia.

The suspect, whose identity has not been released, is currently in police custody. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Narco vandal Grab bag

A SPANISH woman has been jailed after trousering handbags worth £20,000 from Harrods Margarita Del Carmen, 38, took five separate trips to the world famous department store in London from October and May. She copped brands including Hermes, Valentino, Chanel, YSL and Gucci.

FOOD FIGHT!

A WHOPPING 120,000 kilos of tomatoes have been thrown in the Valencian region’s famous tomatina food fight.

A total of 20,000 people, each paying €15 for the privilege, got

splattered in the annual festival, in Buñol.

The overripe fruit came from the province of Castellon before turning the town red with pulp. The event traces its origins to 1945 when an argument during a parade in the town square ended in a food fight.

JUICY: Tons of tomatoes make for a fun but soggy event

Culture vultures

A nationwide heritage night has been called for Spain’s leading 15 cultural hotspots

By Yzabelle Bostyn heritage

FREE theatre, concerts and dance are on offer for a special nationwide ‘Heritage night’.

Some 15 Spanish towns - all with UNESCO protection status - will also be offering guided tours, gourmet markets and gastronomic workshops for one night only. The event on September 14 has been organised to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Cultural Heritage Cities Group (GCPHE).

Designed to

come to life’ the cities include Cordoba, Baeza and Ubeda in Andalucia, as well as Avila and Alcala de Henares, near Madrid. British choreographer Yinka Esi Graves will perform a flamenco-inspired piece,

drawing on her experience in contemporary dance in

Other cities offering special events include Ibiza town, Cuenca and Salamanca.

SURPRISE PARTY

PRINCESS Leonor may be used to all the trappings of Royal life, but she had a more down to earth break when she visited the Costa del Sol.

The heir to the Spanish throne dined with six friends at a humble chiringuito beach bar.

The bar owners say the reservation was made with no reference to the royals and were surprised when several bodyguards turned up alongside the young women. According to manager Puri Molina, waiting staff at El Saladero beach bar soon recognised the princess. But any hopes of grabbing a memento were dashed - the Royal Household’s security detail made other guests delete any images they took, so no snapshots of the illustrious lunch have come to light.

Caceres, meanwhile, has the most monuments open to the public, with 24 museums and palaces opening their doors.

Nearby Merida will have a special performance from Marcat Dance, alongside Colombian singer Manuel Turizo and other theatre performances.

Further north Santiago de Compostela has a big line up of events, while evocative Segovia will have a string of special ‘candlelight events’.

The famous Roman amphitheatre and circus will be open in Tarragona, while historic Toledo will be abuzz with events.

The GCPHE was created to protect cities declared world heritage sites by UNESCO.

See Time to get cultural on page 18

Hiya from Hayek

MEXICAN film star Salma Hayek has been turning heads in Ibiza as she took a break before her 58th birthday this week. The Oscar-nominated actress, married to billionaire businessman François-Henri Pinault, 62, since 2009, was

it in both English and Spanish. “ Yellow bikini + White hair = perfect combination. ”

Sir Ben robbed

SIR Ben Ainslie, the most decorated sailor in Olympic history, has been robbed of his €20,000 Rolex at knifepoint by thieves in Barcelona.

The 47-year-old British yachtsman - who has four Olympic golds and one silver - is currently in the city for the 37th staging of the America’s Cup, sailing’s premier competition. He is CEO and skipper of the INEOS Britannia team, aiming to become the first British crew to claim victory in the competition’s 170-year history.

According to local police data, crime in the Catalan capital has increased by 8% over the past year, with almost half (48.1%) of the reported crimes being pickpocketing.

Many tourists are targeted in packed popular hotspots, including Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, and around La Sagrada Familia.

See Rough Seas page 6

spotted soaking up the sun aboard a luxurious yacht . The Frida star took to Instagram to share a stunning shot of herself in her twopiece, captioning

GRACEFUL: British flamenco dancer Yinka Esi Graves

Storm in a teacup

THE Spanish press has blasted a special coin and postage stamp showing the ‘occupation of Gibraltar’, claiming it ‘mocks Spain’.

To mark the 320th anniversary of the capture of Gibraltar by a British-Dutch, a new stamp and coin will be issued to commemorate the ‘key event for the creation of an unbreakable bond between Gibraltar and the UK’.

The coin will be a 50 pence piece, issued by the Gibraltar Mint, while the stamp will be issued through the Royal Gibraltar Post Office.

Although Spanish news outlet, El Debate has called the new coin and stamp an attempt to ‘mock’ Spain, the Gibraltar mint and Royal Gibraltar Post Office have historically issued such commemorative items to mark the anniversary.

Young lifesavers

THE Department of the Environment has congratulated 28 young lifeguards for their commitment, skills and excellence.

In the can

Winners of Our Gibraltar art competition named - and corned beef wins

A PICTURE of a can of corned beef has won top prize in the Our Gibraltar art competition. Local artist Derek Duarte pocketed the £1,500 prize for the large-scale painting of the iconic tin. It was hailed as a celebration of the Rock’s unique cultural identity.

Held at John Mackintosh Hall Theatre, Minister for the Environment John Cortes led the awards.

He praised the 17 rescues carried out this year, as well as the ‘countless’ times they have

the essence of Gibraltarian life. Other winners of the competition were Leslie Gaduzo, who won the art prize with Where is my Rock, a thought-provoking piece that explores the rapid development of Gibraltar.

Taking second place in the category was Caroline Canessa with her picture The Kasbar, Calle Comedia.

Stephen Perera took home the photography prize for La azotea, a nostalgic image of

his grandfather on a rooftop. Second prize went to Stephen Hermida for Under Royal Patronage.

Stephen Hermida, Karl Ullger, Matthew Francis Bosano, Phoebe Noble, Michele Stagnetto, and Chris-Anne Alcantara all received Highly Commended certificates.

The winning artworks are currently on display at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery until Friday (September 6) from 10am to 4pm.

TREE DEDICATED

THE Willow tree at Commonwealth Park has been decorated in purple by staff and residents of ERS to mark the start of World Alzheimer’s Month.

New routes

SCHOOL buses are being replaced with additional route buses during peak hours to tackle overcrowding.

The new system has been introduced after feedback found normal bus routes were overcrowded and school buses underused.

A successful trial found that more people got to their destination on time on buses that were less overcrowded as a result of more being available during peak usage time.

The extra morning buses depart as follows: Extra 3 at 8:10am from South Pavilion, Extra 2 at 8:20am from Elliot’s Battery, and Extra 3 at 8:20am from South Pavilion.

The remaining school bus route is the S8, which continues to serve Notre Dame and St Anne's Schools.

The Ministry of Transport also assures its users that the issues faced on the route 1 buses have now been resolved.

provided first aid and support to beachgoers.

“Please don’t underestimate the importance of your contribution in keeping the public safe, and I take this opportunity to thank you all. We are immensely proud,” he said.

The tree was dedicated to the late Daphne Alcantara, former chairperson of GADS, who passed away earlier this year.

The Minister for Health, Gemma Arias-Vasquez and the Minister for the Environment, Prof John Cortes, as well as Mrs Alcantara’s family, attended a short sun-down ceremony.

With a UNESCO world heritage site offering 120,000 years of human history and only short drive from the Costa del Sol, enjoy the warmth of the British Gibraltarians and splash out VAT-free in Sterling.

Gibraltar. Sun, sea and history served with a very British twist.

For further information call: Gibraltar Tourist Board +350 200 74950

Or to download a brochure go to: www.visitgibraltar.gi

THE start of a new academic year for 1300-plus pupils at a Gibraltar school is under threat as teachers complaining of ‘anarchy, chaos and mismanagement’ threaten to launch disruptive strike action.

Staff at Westside School have described feeling ‘vulnerable, worried, anxious, stressed and traumatised’ following a decline in pupils’ behaviour standards, including violence which has become ‘a regular occurrence on a daily basis’.

The Olive Press has read the testimonies of over 25 members of staff who have decried ‘poor behaviour management’ which has created a ‘toxic environment’ where students believe they can ‘get away with anything’.

The Gibraltar government has been forced to intervene in an attempt to settle the dispute, which involves NASUWT, the main union representing teachers within the tiny British Overseas Territory.

The NASUWT launched a

WESTSIDE STORY

EXCLUSIVE: Teachers at 1300-pupil school complain of ‘anarchy’ as industrial action threatens to disrupt the start of a new academic year

By Ben Pawlowski

ballot over the summer holidays where 88% of respondents said they were willing to take part in strike action, or industrial action short of strike action, if the dispute over ‘adverse management practices affecting pupil behaviour and the health, safety and welfare of members’ persisted without resolution, casting doubt on the start of term for the comprehensive school’s 1300-plus pupils.

Jane Peckham, deputy general secretary of NASUWT, told the Olive Press: “NASUWT is

in dispute with the Gibraltar government over the failure to address teachers’ concerns about worsening pupil behaviour at Westside School which has left teachers feeling unsupported and at risk for their safety.

Dispute

“The overwhelming majority of members at Westside have voted in favour, securing a mandate for industrial action. Since the dispute was lodged, the Gibraltar Government and Education Department have met with the NASUWT to agree a process for dispute resolution. “However, the safety of our members is our first priority and unless their concerns are listened to and effectively addressed we will have no option but to consider an industrial response”. In response, the Gibraltar government confirmed they were engaging with representatives of the NASUWT, but denied that they were in dispute, and instead blamed the trade union for delaying meetings to coincide with the start of the new academic year. They told the Olive Press:

“Whilst it was the Government’s intention to engage with the union over the month of August, the union’s timetable precluded any meaningful engagement over the period, so the process of resolution will continue now, in September. Indeed, a meeting will be held shortly to continue to progress the matter.

“The Government does not foresee any impediments to reaching a swift and definitive resolution to this issue, and does not foresee any disruption to pupils or staff either.

At the end of July, staff at Westside School participated in a behaviour management survey report, resulting in a 75% response rate from NASUWT members.

Over 98% of members believed that behaviour had deteriorated over the course of the previous academic year, with the same percentage believing that the school’s current behaviour policy had not been clearly presented and explained to staff.

The alleged deterioration in behaviour coincides with a change in the school’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) last year after Dr Sonia Montiel Lopez, who pledged to ‘pro-

vide a nurturing environment’ for students and staff, took over as headteacher from Michelle Barabich, who retired after a 43-year-long career in education.

Under a quarter of staff felt supported by the SLT whilst reporting behavioural incidents, with 95% of teachers believing that their response to poor behaviour was too ‘lenient’.

One teacher said: “We have gone from a previous management who would support staff and draw clear lines with students on what was and was not acceptable to this idea that the student is never wrong and the adult somehow is always to blame”.

The situation has been de-

scribed as ‘endemic’, with ‘no consequences for extreme and even illegal behaviour within the school’, such as electronic vaping.

Assault

Another member of staff said:

“The senior leadership team (the headteacher in particular) has insisted on turning a blind eye to a range of behavioural infractions at the expense of the safety of both Westside staff and students”. This has created, staff claim, a ‘culture of entitlement amongst students’ where ‘it’s only a matter of time until something serious happens like they physically assault a teacher’.

TEACHERS: Dr Sonia (left) with previous headteacher Michelle Barabich (centre)

ANARCHY: Problems coincided with appointment of Dr Sonia Monteel Lopez (left)

Voted

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

OPINION

Extend the hand

SPAIN is a young democracy with strong instincts towards revanchist imperialism.

It is a country that sees the Rock as territory to be claimed and owned and humans be damned. Mature democracy is to understand that land is only valuable (resources aside) in so much as it is a home to people. And that the rights of those people trump the value of the land they reside on.

Thankfully, it seems that the tortured Brexit negotiations have been carried out in the mature, democratic fashion on all sides.

Thankfully – and despite the beating drums of the Spanish nationalists it seems the socialist government in Madrid recognises both Gibraltar’s right to exist and its future under a British flag.

For decades now, both sides have been so keen to assert their claims to sovereignty in the eyes of the international community that there has been little leeway for compromise.

Has it been too long since we made an incursion into Gibraltar waters? Better send in a Guardia Civil boat.

Is a Spanish vessel fishing near the Rock again? Better chase them off.

Don’t want anyone at the UN to think we tacitly accept the claims of the other side.

But in order to push the deal over the edge, it is now time to make the compromise.

The airport is on the contested isthmus and it will be serving Spain as well as Gibraltar. Spanish officers (no more heavily armed than their Gibraltar counterparts) should operate there freely.

Gibraltar should retain sole control over the port, but perhaps under the jurisdiction of EU border force Frontex.

Painful concessions will be necessary, but it seems the will is there to bear them on both sides in good faith. Now is the time.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

Walter Finch walter@theolivepress.es

Yzabelle Bostyn yzabelle@theolivepress.es

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

Simon Hunter simon@theolivepress.es

Alex Trelinski alex@theolivepress.es

Ben Pawlowski ben@theolivepress.es

Santaella

accounts@ theolivepress.es

By Ben Pawlowski in Barcelona

FOLLOWING years of groundbreaking innovation and hundreds of millions of euros invested from super-rich backers, the 37th edition of the America’s Cup is finally underway.

Half a dozen teams have descended on Barcelona to stake their claim to sailing’s most prestigious trophy in a pulsating regatta which kicked off on August 22 and will conclude in October.

The Catalan port has been transformed into a glamorous sporting pantheon for the competition, often regarded as the oldest in modern sport as it now enters its 170th year.

However, the regatta has become the latest target for anti-tourist protesters who have blasted it as ‘elitist and opaque’, claiming the affluent clientele and fanfare ‘will bring every sort of misery to the city’.

The antagonism kicked off in May when violent clashes between protesters and police broke out after the official sponsor, luxury brand Louis Vuitton, held a fashion show in the city’s UNESCO-listed Parc Guell.

The parade - attended by celebrities including Emma Stone, Sophie Turner and Ana de Armas - sparked anger among residents who rallied against the disruption and the ‘privatisation of public space’.

Locals were particularly aggravated that a historic stone staircase in the culturally-important Gaudi designed park, was damaged during construction for the show.

Other protesters claim the competition is driving locals out of the city by pushing up rental prices, particularly in the coastal Barceloneta neighbourhood where the action is taking place. They point out that temporary lettings have skyrocketed to

theolivepress.es

ROUGH SEAS

While the globally popular America’s Cup has kicked off in Barcelona it has been anything but universally welcomed

€4,000-€5,000 a month.

Meanwhile, a number of streets at the recent Gracia Festival were dedicated entirely to protesting against the regatta.

The entrance to one installation read ‘Let’s sink the f***ing America’s Cup’, surrounded by phrases such as ‘Tourists and expats go home’ and ‘when posh people in boats kick you out of your house’.

Others are angry that the lucrative event is relying on 2,000 volunteers, rather than providing paid, short-term jobs to locals.

Despite the protests, five teams are competing for the right to become the Challengers of Record and face off against the reigning champions, Emirates New Zealand, in a series of races in October to decide who takes home the coveted trophy.

Sir Ben Ainslee, the four-time Olympic sailing champion, is once again the skipper and CEO of the Britannia team, backed by billionaire Manchester United owner and INEOS founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Ainslee’s crew have received technical

OPPOSITION: Protests against the cup began in May and still continue

assistance from mechanics from the Mercedes AMG Formula 1 team, who are also sponsored by Ratcliffe’s chemical conglomerate. Britain has so far never won the America’s Cup - only the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland have claimed the trophy in the competition’s prestigious 170year history. Now the UK team must face off against NYYC American Magic, Switzerland’s Alinghi Red Bull Racing, Italy’s Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli, and France’s Orient Express Racing Team in the Challenger Selection Series which includes a round-robin stage, semi-finals and a final from October 12 to 17. The round-robin stage lasts until September 8, where each team races each other twice, with the top four progressing to the semi-finals. In the semi-final stage, the first team to win five races

will advance to the Louis Vuitton Cup final, where the first team to win seven races will qualify for the America’s Cup final against holders New Zealand, who won in 2021. Each crew is racing an AC75 boat, the latest extraordinary feat of technological innovation and ingenuity.

The 75ft foiling craft has a carbon-fibre hull and sails that can be as large as 26.5m high. Their top speeds will be around 50 knots (93 kph).

It is a far cry from the wooden boats of the first America’s Cup, held around the Isle of Wight in 1851.

The competition was won by the New York Yacht Club which renamed the trophy, then known as the ‘100 Guineas Cup’, in honour of its homeland.

Barcelona is the second Spanish venue to host the cup after Valencia, which hosted two consecutive editions in 2007 and 2010.

The competition is driving locals out of the city by pushing up rental prices

Barcelona’s former left-wing mayor, Ada Colau, successfully fought off bids from Valencia and Malaga to host this year’s edition as part of a drive to bring ‘quality’ tourism to the Catalan coast. The former mayor and organisers have stifled complaints by pointing out the competition is bringing €1 billion, 19,000 jobs and an additional 2.5 million visitors to the city.

Mateu Hernandez, the head of Barcelona Tourism, said: “The people who follow the America’s Cup are people who love the sea and have plenty of disposable income. “We are very interested in these types of tourists. Particularly as we need to improve the quality of those tourists who visit the city”.

However, many view this approach as prioritising wealthy visitors and pricing out locals, whilst others, including Marti Cuso, a spokesperson for the protest group Platform Against The Cup, have questioned where exactly the alleged €1bn boost will go.

As the arguments continue, one thing is clear - it’s not just the sailors who are bound to experience choppy waters through the early Autumn.

CAPTAIN: Ben Ainslie defends the cup, which is bringing 19,000 jobs to the city

Something in the air?

As cases of Mpox, West Nile virus and Sloth Fever rise in Spain – how worried should we be? The Olive Press asked the health experts for their verdict

SPECIAL REPORT by Cole Sinanian

JUST when you hoped the heat finally abating meant we were going back to normal, two new danger viruses reared their head.

In a risk assessment, the European Centre for Disease Prevention (ECDC), called the increase of imported Mpox cases from African countries ‘highly likely’, while a new disease called Sloth Fever has also emerged.

With victims coming forward across the country it has raised the alarm at the tail end of a busy tourism season that’s seen outbreaks of a number of deadly tropical diseases in Spain.

Up until mid August there were 116 cases recorded in Madrid, 67 in Andalucia and a dozen in the Valencian Community as well as the Balearic Islands. Around Spain they totalled 260 victims.

Meanwhile an even nastier new strain of Mpox, known as ‘clade I’ has been wreaking havoc in the Congo.

So bad was the outbreak that the WHO and the Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC) recently declared a ‘public health emergency of continental security’.

And the new highly transmissible strain emerged as other rare infections like West Nile Virus (WNV), Sloth Fever, and Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever have all claimed deaths this year. With its warmer temperatures and proximity to Africa, Spain commonly sees outbreaks of tropical diseases, particularly during the summer months.

In 2022, for example, Mpox infected 7,521 in Spain, while the West Nile Virus — spread via the native Culex Pipiens mosquito — makes a regular appearance each summer, having so far caused around 20 cases and, at least, five deaths in Andalucia this year. All in Sevilla.

Experts say the increased movement of people between continents brought by globalisation has played a role in the global spread of tropical diseases.

Meanwhile higher temperatures caused by climate change may affect local transmissibility and the duration of the virus’ activity.

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is spread through physical contact with infected animals or peo ple, and can cause fever and a painful rash that usually lasts from two to four weeks.

Though most people recover, extreme cases of the disease can be fatal.

In 2024, 17,541 cases and 517 deaths have been reported as of August 13, according to the Africa CDC, 96% of which were recorded in the Congo, and most cases spread by sex workers.

PREVENTION: Dr Jacob Lorenzo says the most at-risk groups have been vaccinated

WEST NILE WORRIES

As for West Nile Virus, the mosquito-borne disease whose corresponding sickness — West Nile Fever — can cause headaches, nausea, rashes and death in extreme cases, has circulated locally throughout Europe this summer.

There have so far been cases reported in Greece, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, and Romania in addition to Spain, totaling 69 cases by July 31, according to the ECDC. These numbers are normal and are no cause for alarm, the organisation wrote in its release.

Mpox

Another rare, locally transmitted disease that’s made an appearance in Spain this year is Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), a deadly, tickborne illness with a 10 to 40% fatality rate.

The virus has already killed two elderly men, the first of whom died on May 1 and likely contracted the disease while hiking in the Arribes del Duero National Park in Salamanca.

West Nile Virus

Sloth Fever

The WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (pictured below) described its rapid spread to several neighbouring countries as ‘very worrying’. But despite the hundreds of Mpox cases in Spain this year, the new variant has yet to be detected here, and public health experts assert there’s no reason to panic.

“The numbers are quite low compared to the 2022 outbreak,” Dr Jacob Lorenzo, director of the Institute for Tropical Diseases at the University of La Laguna, told the Olive Press.

“Additionally, we have previous experience and the most at-risk groups in the country have been vaccinated or are in the process of receiving their second dose, so this year it is a totally different scenario,” he continued.

Meanwhile, University of Salamanca microbiology professor Juan Luis Muñoz added that most Mpox cases in Europe have resulted from sexual contact.

He also emphasised the most effective manner of prevention is immediately seeing a doctor if one finds any strange lesions, and to always engage in safe sex practices.

“There is not a specific number of cases indicating that the infection is getting out of control and we are still far from worrying figures,” Muñoz told the paper.

The second case was contracted in the Toledo province, and health authorities were notified on July 21.

According to Muñoz, there may be a relationship between higher year-round temperatures brought by climate change and the emergence of these rare, insect-borne diseases.

“Higher temperatures, and above all milder winters, facilitate the survival of disease-transmitting vectors that in the climatic conditions of 40-50 years ago would not have survived the winter,” he said.

Additionally, other factors may play a role in their increased prevalence, he said, like the abandonment of agricultural land leading to more ticks.

SUPER SLOTH

A number of cases of the deadly Oropouche virus, or Sloth Fever in Europe this summer have also raised concerns. The virus, spread by biting midge flies and mosquitos, has been circulating in Cuba and Brazil, and was brought to Europe by travellers from those countries.

The ECDC reported 19 European cases in June and July, with 12 reported in Spain, five in Italy and two in Germany. Symptoms can be easily confused with other tropical viruses like Dengue, and often include fevers, rashes, headaches, and muscle pains, though many carriers experience no symptoms. The virus is uncommon and largely unknown to researchers, and had previously been thought to be mostly non-lethal, until two healthy young women died from the virus in Brazil this year. There is a connection between globalisation and the spread of tropical diseases like Oropouche.

“In the case of vector-borne diseases, there’s an increase in travel and trade between continents, which allows invasive species to reach new territories,” added Lorenzo. Climate change also plays a role, as increasing temperatures worldwide have led to the expansion of tropical zones, and therefore the potential habitat of tropical viruses. However, he emphasises that the risk of transmission of Oropouche in Europe is low, as the species of flies that carry the virus do not exist here.

The most recent ECDC report assessed the risk level for European travellers to Latin American countries as moderate.

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4- Man in Spain loses his pension after working for 46 years because of this error

5- Tiny village in Spain’s Andalucia is rocked by video of a couple romping on the church altar

or call

Jellyfish problems

POPULAR Costa Brava seaside spots have seen a massive rise in jellyfish this summer, caused by warmer sea temperatures.

Reproduction levels have rocketed along with the jellyfish migrating north.

Between May and August, almost 7,500 people in the area needed medical treatment for jellyfish stings - up 41% on the same period last year.

The stings, while often painful, can be particularly dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems.

MedusApp, a platform on which people report jellyfish sightings and stings, has also recorded hundreds of incidents every day during the summer.

Two Tarragona beaches were shut for a time in July due to the appearance of the Portuguese man o' war which has potentially deadly stings.

BARCELONA'S port is using a drone to monitor sulphur emissions from ships in a pilot project in association with the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). Real-time data from the drone is fed into a computer to make sure that vessels are following emission rules. Any ship that has levels above the per-

POLLUTION PATROL

mitted level laid down by the European Union could get a visit from inspectors. As well as checking on ship emissions, the drone also monitors any potential oil spills or floating debris in the port which

handles a quarter of all maritime trade coming into the country. EMSA drones have been used in other parts of Spain including the Strait of Gibraltar.

Climate threat

SPAIN is facing a devastating cocktail of climate change phenomena that threatens to decimate its tourist industry.

Alongside Italy, France, and the UK, Spain has been identified as one of the European countries most at risk of losing tourists as extreme weather events become more frequent.

Tourist-centric Malaga has been identified specifically as the Spanish region most at risk of excessive heat – one of

DEAL CLOSED: In Beijing

Spain’s tourism industry is at major risk from climate change, study warns

By Walter Finch

three extreme weather phenomena that is predicted to worsen over time.

This is according to a recent study by researchers in Italy which analysed the impact of climate change on popular tourist destinations across

CHINESE company Hygreen Energy will back three major green hydrogen projects in Andalucia including a €2 billion investment for an energy plant in Huelva province. It will also have a factory employing around 1,000 people in the Malaga area featuring technologies linked to the energy sector.

Hygreen has also closed a deal with Cox Abengoa to use its technology in the development of components for green hydrogen at its plant in Sevilla.

Europe.

They identified the countries with tourism sectors that will most be at risk from excessive heat, floods and gales.

The areas of Spain most dependent on tourism stand acutely vulnerable to all three. Excessive heat, in particular, is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in

China Green

An agreement was signed in Beijing between the president of Hygreen Spain, Javier Romero, and the head of Cox Abengoa, Enrique Riquelme. The accords came on the first day of an official trip to China by Andalucia president, Juanma Moreno, who visited the Daxing International Zone renewable energy park in the capital and met with officials from Hygreen Energy.

Spain.

The study found that Spain is the second most vulnerable country in Europe to extreme heat.

Around 12% of Spain’s tourist attractions will be affected by extreme heat stress, behind only Italy with a staggering 49%.

This could lead to potential tourists looking elsewhere for a summer holiday in order to avoid the unbearable temperatures.

Excessive heat is likely to also hit France, while strong gales will hit the United Kingdom, Italy and France the most, and flooding will increase the most in France, Italy and the United Kingdom.

And 9% of Spain’s tourist-heavy areas will be afflicted by wind storms, making it fourth behind France (13%), Italy (14%) and way out in front is the UK (29%).

OP QUICK CROSSWORD

Rain pain

SPAIN'S government has asked Morocco for more information about its extensive plans for cloud seeding to create rain.

There are concerns that the initiative - part of Morocco’s national drought plan - might cause bad weather in southern Spain.

Experts believe that making changes to Morocco’s rainfall pattern will trigger thunderstorms, hail and even tornadoes on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar.

Climate engineering has been condemned by the United Nations in a report published after the 2023 climate summit. It stated that it ‘can trigger a series of chain reactions with significant risks to humans, oceans, global temperature, and biodiversity’.

Morocco spent €15 million between 2021 and 2023 on developing an artificial rain programme to boost its very low rainfall levels.

Some scientists believe that cloud seeding can improve rainfall by up to 15%.

It is usually done by small planes that release chemical compounds into the atmosphere, such as silver iodide or sodium chloride, which create clouds.

National Day

PROUD TO BE FREE

National Day celebrates everything that makes Gibraltar great

EVERY year on September 10, the Rock of Gibraltar comes alive with a vibrant celebration – National Day.

It goes beyond just fun and festivities - although there are plenty of those. National Day commemorates several historic moments for Gibraltar, most importantly the 1967 referendum where residents overwhelmingly voted to remain British.

This day also celebrates self-determination, with Gibraltar boasting its own parliament and a strong sense of identity.

Festivities kick off with a children’s fancy dress competition, transforming Main Street into a colourful parade. Throughout the day, John Mackintosh Square plays host to a lively street party, while private bars and restaurants offer special deals and entertainment.

CELEBRATING THE ROCK

The heart of the celebration lies in the Freedom of the City ceremony. The Mayor reads the National Day Declaration, followed by live music, aerial displays, and family activities.

In the lead-up to the big day, residents are encouraged to sign the National Day Banner, a powerful symbol of unity displayed on the main stage. Richard Buttigieg of the Self Determination for Gibraltar Group (SDGG) emphasizes the importance of this gesture:

“National Day is a political rally reminding everyone of Gibraltar’s right to self-determination. It’s a day to show a united front against those who may undermine our right to

LANDLORD RELIEF IN GIBRALTAR

choose our own destiny.”

National Day celebrations have evolved into a week-long affair. From art competitions and window displays to concerts and performances, there’s something for everyone. The aim is to create a sense of community pride and belonging. This tiny limestone rock, just 6.8 square kilometres, is home to over 32,000 proud Gibraltarians. Its strategic location at the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea has made it a coveted territory throughout history. Gibraltar boasts a fascinating history, with evidence of Neanderthal habitation dating back thousands of years. It has been

shaped by various cultures, from the Romans who called it Mons Calpe to the Moors who gave it its current name. Today, Gibraltar is a vibrant mix of British and Mediterranean influences, with residents speaking a blend of Spanish, English, and Llanito, a local dialect. Gibraltar continues to evolve. Recently recognised as a city by the UK, it boasts a thriving economy built on tourism, online gambling, financial services, and maritime industries. National Day serves as a reminder of Gibraltar’s unique identity and its unwavering commitment to self-determination.

Investing in buy-to-let properties in Gibraltar remains a popular strategy, driven by strong demand, a robust economy, and favorable tax policies. However, as interest rates rise, leveraging can become less advantageous, requiring a strategic approach to maintain and enhance returns.

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JOYCE

Best day of the year

SUNDAY will see a boat procession off Gibraltar as part of the National Day celebrations.

Starting at 7.30 pm. It will begin with a blessing of the sea and vessels, followed by a procession of participating boats towards the South Mole for the laying of flowers as an Act of Remembrance for all those who have lost their lives at sea.

The organisers – including the Rector of the Shrine of Our Lady of Europe, Gibraltar Cultural Services, and a dedicated team – invite all boat owners in Gibraltar to participate, regardless of religious affiliation. Interested participants can register

From fancy dress to fireworks, music to politics, there is something for everyone in the National Day line-up

NATIONAL Day will be celebrated with a host of exciting events this Tuesday, September 10. Organised by Gibraltar Group (SDGG) and Gibraltar Cultural Services (GCS), the festivities will centre around Casemates Square, John Mackintosh Square and Governor’s Parade. The day will begin at 9.30am with live music throughout Main Street.

It will be swiftly followed by a Children’s Fancy Dress Competition at Casemates Square and live performances.

At 12.25pm, a political rally will take place with representatives from various political parties.

Then at 1.30pm, local DJs No Limits Entertainment will perform while ‘fun day attractions’ kick off in John Mackintosh square.

The kid friendly activities will run from 1.30pm to 7pm

Meanwhile in Victoria Stadium, Nobiggie Festival will take place from 2pm to 10pm

The dance and electronic music festival will see international acts such as East End Dubs, Dimmish and Robbie Doherty

From 2.30pm to 7.30 pm, The Chipis & Bob and the Boys will perform at Governor’s Parade.

Sea procession

in two ways: Contact Steven Segui directly at 58286000 or via email steven.segui@giboxy.gi Alternatively, arrive at the muster point on the day itself. The muster time is 7pm at sea, outside Mid Harbours Marina, with the procession starting at 7.30pm sharp.

Participants are encouraged to proudly fly their Gibraltar flags and bring only natural flowers to honor the occasion.

They will be followed by a rock concert at Casemate’s Square including Dead City Radio Cedar and Gabriel Moreno

Finally, the festivities will end with a fireworks display over Detached Mole at 10pm

THE NEVERENDING PARTY

IN the run up to National Day, there are loads of events to get involved in. Today, September 4, you could become a ‘model for the day’ at the Queensway Quay Fashion Show. It is in a good cause too, raising funds for Bosom Buddies Cancer Trust. The event starts at 8.30pm If that isn’t your thing, why not check out the ‘Our Gibraltar’ Exhibition at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery until September 6. It is open between 10am and 4pm, with free entrance.

Music lovers have a treat in store this weekend, with The Weekender being held at The Arena, O’Reilly’s in Ocean Village on Friday and Saturday. The rock concert will feature UK and local talent, including Another Sky, The Collide, The Heavy North, Guy Valarino & The Gentlemen, Thrifty Malone, and what’s more it is free entrance.

Meanwhile, Rock El Kasbah will be held at Castle Steps from 4pm onwards on Saturday.

The street party will feature Heritage, Adrian Pisarello & Friends, GAMPA’s La Maleta, Julian Felice, Broken Arrows and more, and is again free. Sunday sees the Grassroots Festival in Casemates Square from 6pm onwards. The youth rock concert features Nickolai Celecia, Phthalo Tides, Burning Loud, Nate, Nest Before End and MAG Youth, and it too is free.

Coinciding with the Paralympics in Paris will be Gibraltar’s own Para Sports Day on Saturday.

The venue will be the Tercentenary Sports Hall, between 9.30am and 1.30pm

Finally, Monday will see the National Day Mass at The Shrine of Our Lady of Europe church at 7.30pm

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G ibraltar National Day

THE GATEWAY TO EUROPE

Strategic position has shaped Gibraltar’s place in the world

By Dilip Kuner

GIBRALTAR has played a key role in Mediterranean history for over two millennia.

Its geographical significance as the gateway between Europe and Africa and the Atlantic and Mediterranean, has made the Rock a highly prized piece of real estate.

Gibraltar's recorded history begins in the ancient world, though evidence shows human presence as early as the Neanderthals, who inhabited the region around 30,000 years ago.

In Greek mythology, Gibraltar was one of the Pillars of Hercules, a pair of promontories flanking the entrance to the Mediterranean. This mythic association lent the region both symbolic and navigational importance.

During the era of Phoenician exploration (c.1200 BC), Gibraltar became a landmark for traders navigating the seas between the Levant, North Africa, and the Iberian Peninsula.

The Carthaginians and later the Romans also recognised its signifi cance.

The latter incorporat ed Gibraltar into their province of Hispania and while they did not establish a permanent settlement, its coastal proximity ensured it remained a valuable waypoint for naval ac tivities.

The Muslim conquest of the Iberian Peninsula in the early 8th century marked

A

a new phase in Gibraltar's history. In 711 Tariq ibn Ziyad (pictured above), a Berber general leading the Umayyad forces from North Africa, landed at Gibraltar during the initial wave of Islamic expansion into Europe.

The Rock of Gibraltar, known as Jabal Tariq (meaning Mount of Tariq) in Arabic, was named after him. This event was the precursor to the Muslim conquest of Spain, which would lead to centuries of Islamic rule over large parts of the Iberian Peninsula.

Under Islamic control, Gibraltar saw the construction of fortifications and settlements, serving as a military outpost and a base for raids into Christian territories.

ROCK

FIRST

The region’s changing rulers, including the Umayyads, Almoravids, and Almohads, all understood Gibraltar's strategic value, particularly as a naval stronghold guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean.

As Christian forces from northern Spain gradually reconquered the peninsula during the Reconquista, Gibraltar remained under Muslim control until 1462.

That year, it was captured by the

Meet Calpeia - Gibraltar’s earliest modern human

THIS is the face of Calpeia, the first known human resident of Gibraltar. In 1996, archaeologists from the Gibraltar National Museum uncovered a significant find during an excavation near Europa Point in Gibraltarremains of a human burial site in a cave.

It wasn't until 23 years later, thanks to advances in technology and collaboration between the Gibraltar National Museum, the Conservator Manuel Jaén, and Harvard Medical School, that a groundbreaking forensic reconstruction was made.

Using her skull as the foundation, scientists were able to determine that she was petite, with a small and delicate skull.

Calpeia likely had dark eyes, dark hair, and light skin, and was estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old at the time of her death.

She lived around 5,400 BC during the Neolithic period, a time when humans were transitioning from nomadic lifestyles to settled farming communities.

DNA extracted from her remains revealed her genetic ancestry, which indicates a story of migration and intermingling of cultures long before recorded history.

Some 90% of her genetic makeup originated from Anatolia, modern-day Turkey, and 10% from local Mesolithic hunter-gatherer populations. This suggests that her ancestors traveled more than 3,700 kilometres to Gibraltar, mixing with the local population and establishing communities here.

Kingdom of Castile, led by the Duke of Medina Sidonia. After this victory, Gibraltar became part of Castile and would play a role in Spain’s defence against external threats.

Throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, Gibraltar was transformed into a fortified city to guard against raids from North African corsairs and protect Spain’s interests in the Mediterranean. However, Spain’s internal turmoil, coupled with its maritime conflicts with powers like England and the Dutch Republic, meant Gibraltar was frequently threatened by foreign invasion.

Bombardment

Gibraltar’s modern history was decisively shaped by the War of the Spanish Succession (1701–1714), a conflict in which several European powers sought to influence the Spanish throne.

In 1704, an Anglo-Dutch fleet, fighting on behalf of the Austrian Habsburg claimant to the throne, captured Gibraltar from Spain. Though the town’s population initially resisted, the garrison surrendered after several days of bombardment.

In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht formally ceded Gibraltar to Great Britain, bringing an end to Spain’s attempts to reclaim it.

Under the treaty’s terms, Gibraltar was to remain British ‘in perpetuity’ unless it was willingly ceded by Britain, a clause that remains a point of contention in Spanish-British relations to this day. The British occupation of Gibraltar transformed the Rock into one of the most heavily fortified and strategic outposts in Europe.

Following the Treaty of Utrecht, Britain worked to strengthen its hold over Gibraltar. However, Spain, unwilling to relinquish control, launched several unsuccessful attempts to retake the territory.

The most significant of these efforts was the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779–1783), when Spanish and French forces sought to reclaim the territory during the American War of Independence. Despite the prolonged siege, British forces, led by General George Augustus Eliott, successfully defended the Rock, cementing British control.

Gibraltar’s role as a British naval base grew in importance during the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), as

STRATEGIC: Gibraltar guards the passage from Africa to Europe and Atlantic to Mediterranean

the Royal Navy used it to monitor French and Spanish fleets. The strategic position of Gibraltar ensured that it remained a focal point of British imperial defense policy throughout the 19th century. Gibraltar’s military significance reached its zenith during the 20th century, particularly in the two World Wars. In World War I, the British used

Gibraltar to safeguard Allied shipping routes, but its strategic importance came into sharper focus during World War II.

Gibraltar was key in controlling naval access to the Mediterranean and served as a staging point for the Allied invasion of North Africa in 1942 (Operation Torch). Fascist Spain, under Francisco Franco, remained neutral during the war but maintained a close watch on Gibraltar. After World War II, tensions between Spain and Britain over Gibraltar escalated.

The history of Gibraltar is one of conflict, and cultural blending

In 1967, a refer-

endum was held in which the Gibraltarian people overwhelmingly chose to remain under British sovereignty rather than be transferred to Spanish rule.

In the decades following the referendum, Spain has continued to press for sovereignty, occasionally leading to diplomatic rows with Britain. One of the most contentious mo-

ments came in 1969 when Franco closed the border with Gibraltar, effectively isolating the territory. The border remained shut until 1985, a decade after Franco’s death, marking a significant thaw in relations. In 2006, a tripartite forum between Gibraltar, Spain, and Britain was established to discuss mutual interests, reflecting an effort to resolve disputes through diplomacy. However, the 2016 Brexit referendum reignited debate over Gibraltar's future.

The territory, which overwhelmingly voted to remain in the European Union, now faces an uncertain future outside the EU while still navigating its relationship with both Britain and Spain.

The history of Gibraltar is one of conflict, strategic significance, and cultural blending. From its ancient roots as a maritime landmark to its modern role as a British Overseas Territory, the Rock of Gibraltar has been shaped by its geography and the competing interests of empires.

While its political future remains a topic of debate, Gibraltar’s identity as a unique cultural and strategic outpost at the crossroads of continents is firmly established in the annals of history.

CLOSED: Families at the border gate waiting to see frienda and relatives

DEMOS: During the 1967 referendum

UNDER FIRE: A depiction of the Great Siege of Gibraltar

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Just say no

How did we get here? When the Gibraltarians said no to sharing sovereignty with Spain in the most unanimous vote in history

THE tortured post-Brexit negotiations to cement the status of Gibraltar within the Schengen zone have only come about because the people said no.

But not just to Brexit itself – they said no when it appeared the British government was about to give away their sovereignty to Spain during a series of secret meetings in the 1990s.

They let their feelings be known with one of the largest protests per head of population in history.

And then they reaffirmed their ‘non’ with one of the most unanimous votes in the history of free and fair referendums.

The present talks, which must bear fruit before the introduction of a hard border with Spain in November, are the progenitor of this vote.

They are the better looking, genetically superior offspring of the talks that mobilised the people of Gibraltar to say no.

Talks designed to ‘normalise relations’ and ‘settle the issue’ of Gibraltar’s long-disputed sovereignty. They culminated in the ‘Joint Declaration on Gibraltar’, signed by Tony Blair’s Labour government in 1999.

By Walter Finch

It established a framework for discussions on issues like cross-border cooperation and, crucially, the much-loathed concept of co-sovereignty of the peninsula.

It would create a situation where both Spain and the UK would share control over Gibraltar in a deal known as the Brussels Agreement.

The Rock has been a point of contention between Britain and Spain for centuries since it was captured by an Anglo-Dutch fleet in 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession.

The war’s settlement saw Gibraltar ceded to Great Britain in perpetuity under the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713.

Fast forward 320 yearsplus one great siege, one blockade and various political efforts later - and Spain is still trying to regain sovereignty of the Rock.

The proposals for a sovereignty-sharing arrangement at the turn of the millennium alarmed the

Gibraltarians so much that unprecedented protests were triggered in 2002.

“It felt like a betrayal at the time because it was out of the blue,” Dr Jennifer Ballantine Perera, historian and Director of the Gibraltar Garrison Library, told the Olive Press.

“At its heart lay the question of our identity, both national and cultural. Because we are British Gibraltarians.

“And it is about our way of life. The attempt to thrust a change of status over Gibraltar would’ve impacted all areas of our lives.

“The fear of an erosion of identity was also key because if we’re not British Gibraltarians, then what are we? It runs deep.”

An estimated 20,000 people took to the streets in a wave of British and Gibraltarian flags on March 18.

The figure represented approximately twothirds of the entire population – an extraordinarily high proportion that has perhaps never been equalled.

The then-Chief Minister, Sir Peter Caruana, slammed the notion that a decision on the

TOWN PLANNING ACT

NOTICE 23(B)

NOTICE UNDER SECTION 23(7)(a) (to be published in the Gazette and in two local newspapers)

FACE OFF: Then Spanish Affairs Minister Ana Palacios and then Chief Minister Sir Peter Caruana

Rock’s sovereignty could be made without consulting the Gibraltarians directly.

He then preempted the talks by calling a referendum on the matter in November 2002.

The question was simple: “Do you approve of the proposals for shared sovereignty over Gibraltar contained in the Brussels Agreement?”

The referendum went ahead unilaterally to Spanish protests and without endorsement from the British government.

But the result could hardly have been more conclusive.

between the UK and Spain, and that the population of Gibraltar has no say in determining its own future.

Spain’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ana Palacio, even called the referendum ‘illegal’ and argued it contradicted UN resolutions on the issue.

With a turnout of 93% of 11,800 voters a staggering 99% voted no

With a turnout of 93% (around 11,000 out of 11,800 registered voters), a staggering 99% (over 10,900) voted no.

The Spanish government, nonplussed with the referendum and its outcome, initially refused to recognise its legitimacy.

The Spanish position has long been that the issue should be resolved bilaterally

But why were the people of Gibraltar so adamant against shared sovereignty with Spain?

Dr Ballantine Perera recalled her father telling her when news of the joint-sovereignty plans emerged. He told her Gibraltar had been British for longer than that the USA has existed – ‘it’s like if the British returned to Washington DC saying they still have a claim on America.’

Dr Ballantine Perera’s father was a young man during the closure of the Border by the Franco regime in 1969, and had expe-

rienced border restrictions for at least 10 years prior to the actual closure.

The memory of this runs very deep among Gibraltarians and has led to a degree of mistrust that flares-up from time to time, as it did in 2002.

However, with the referendum result a simple but emphatic declaration of the will of the people, the Brussels Agreement was sunk.

The British government remembered its democratic principles and performed an abrupt about-face.

Jack Straw, the then-UK Foreign Secretary, assured the Gibraltarians that any change in Gibraltar’s status would not occur without their consent, effectively settling the issue of joint sovereignty once and for all.

It paved the way for the present negotiations, in which Gibraltar might have no choice but to give up some hard-fought sovereignty after all in order to keep the border open.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME

John Culatto examines how his native Gibraltar has changed over the past 40 years

IN the past 40 years, Gibraltar has been through thick and thin, evolving into a symbol of diplomatic resilience and of- fering hope to smaller nations that larger powers don’t always have to prevail.

Gibraltarians are no strangers to adversity.

Since the Franco era, Spain’s diplomatic ef- forts have focused on portraying Gibraltar as a colony, an outdated relic that should be returned to Spanish control.

The principle of territorial integrity - path

Spain has chosen - has often clashed

with the right to self-determination, creating tensions felt worldwide in places like Ukraine, Taiwan, Western Sahara, and the Basque Country, where people's rights are under threat.

Gibraltar shares this struggle. From 1996 to 2011, then Chief Minister Peter Caru- ana resisted attempts by the former colonial power to broker a joint sovereignty deal with Spain in the early 2000s. Despite pressure from Tony Blair, who saw closer ties with Spain as a pragmatic move within the EU, Gibraltarians rejected the plan through a referendum, affirming their desire to remain British. Brexit, although a major setback for Gibraltar, which voted 96% in favor of staying in the EU, has ironically fueled its nationalist sentiment, prompting calls for greater UK support.

Challenges

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo has worked tirelessly to keep Gibraltar ahead of the curve, navigating these challenges and raising the Rock’s profile on the global stage.

We must also acknowledge Sir Joe Bossano, leader of the Gibraltar Socialist La- bour Party and Chief Minister from 1988 to 1996. Bossano, a political figure with over five decades of service, established National Day in 1992 and dramatically reshaped Gibraltar's political landscape.

His initiatives included introducing free university education for all, expanding Gi- braltar’s territory through an ambitious land reclamation project, and driving eco- nomic growth.

As a result of these efforts, Gibraltar today is more self-sufficient than ever, boasting an economy with higher wages than many international standards and a strength- ened resistance to Spain's more conservative factions. Gibraltar’s nationalism is not about claiming superiority, but about asserting its right to self-determination - a right rooted in its unique 300-year history and diverse identity.

In a post-colonial world, Gibraltar refuses to be used as a political pawn by larger powers.

This is the essence of Gibraltar’s National Day, a celebration of its ongoing struggle for self-determination and the unique path it continues to forge.

National Day Events

Entertainment on the Ocean Village Marina Events Pontoon

Join the action on the pontoon or visit for prime seats to view all the action.

15:00 - 18:00 Silent Disco

19:00 - 21:00 Michael Bublé tribute act live Cuban music, dance fiesta and firegirl show

09:00-12:00 National Day Breakfast Party

13:00 - 16:00 John Robba live music

16:30 - 19:30 DJ David Cherish

08:30 Breakfast buffet

National Day Carvery (Pre-bookings only) live music on the Arena outdoor stage featuring Alexej Baglietto Band / Jesse Sampere / Caitlin Lavagna

Bottomless Brunch £32.95 all day (Pre-bookings only)

13:00 - 15:00 BBQ Buffet All day DJ’s Dalliflow, Shiv3rs, Staggy & Wayne plus Kuka Morales live nobiggie afterparty

13:00 - 18:00 DJ Rookie Shwartz

LA CULTURA

DIGGERS:

Archaelogists at work at the Neolothic village

BRIDGE TO THE PAST

A SUBMERGED bridge built by ancient humans has been discovered in a Mallorca cave, which reveals that humans colonised the western Mediterranean much earlier than previously believed.

Archaeologists discovered the structure at the flooded Cova d'en Basso on the eastern side of the island.

Previous estimates using carbon dating suggested that humans arrived on Mallorca some 4,400 years ago.

Analysis of carbon deposits from the discovery put the construction to being 6,000 years old.

EARLY FARMERS

ARCHAEOLOGISTS have found a Neolithic village, offering new insights into the lives of some of the first farmers in the region.

The excavation at the Huerto Raso site in Huesca has unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts including tools, ceramics, animal remains and possible structures dating back to approximately 5,500 to 3,000 BC.

Researchers believe that the village was a

seasonal gathering place for Neolithic communities, eventually evolving into a permanent settlement.

The discovery of animal bones, primarily from hunted species, suggests that hunting remained an important part of their subsistence, even as they transitioned to farming.

The excavation has also uncovered evidence of agricultural activities, including flint tools, milling stones, and potential storage areas.

Stone the crows!

How ancient man created the Dolmen of Menga including a 150-ton rock slab

A 700-year-old Hebrew Bible from medieval Spain could fetch up to €7 million at a Sotheby's auction this month.

The Shem Tov Bible is a 768page illustrated text written on parchment in the early 14th century.

Sotheby's Sharon Liberman Mintz said: “It's such a wonderful masterpiece and it is rare to have illuminated bibles come to the market.”

The reference to 'illuminated' is about the Bible’s gold and silver leaf decorations, as well as its colourful pigments.

The text was copied by Rabbi Shem Tov Ibn Gaon born in the late 13th century in Soria.

NEW light has been shed on how the Dolmen of Menga - one of Europe’s most important megalithic structures - was built.

Archaeologists have puzzled over how Neolithic people, equipped with only rudi mentary tools, could have moved and pre cisely placed such massive stones to create the structurethe largest such ancient monument in Spain.

By Dilip Kuner

Menga, which is sited in Antequera near Malaga, carefully selected and transported the stones from a nearby quarry, using a sophisticated system of sledges and levelled tracks to manoeuvre the massive slabs 850 metres to the construction

Dating back to around 3,600 BC, it is made from enormous slabs of stone, one weighing over 150 tons.

Now, researchers have discovered that the builders of

IMPRESSIVE: The ancient technology used to make the Dolmen showed sophisticated design

La Tomatina in Buñol once again brought in the crowds to watch tomatoes being thrown around in an event, first held in the 1940’s.

Of the participants many come from thousands of kilometres away, including a young Indian man living who got intrigued after the tomato fight featured in a Bollywood movie.

He wanted to experience what he described as the ‘madness’ of it all.

Another visitor claimed La Tomatina was more famous abroad than at home.

“It Is super well known in Shanghai,” he stated.

WORTH THE TRIP Biblical sale

A group of Valencian women taking part for the first time said that it is an ‘experience that you have to live once in your life’.

Inm total, 22,000 people of 28 different nationalities bought official tickets to take part in the world’s biggest food fight.

“The extraordinary dimensions of some of the structural pieces of the dolmen required sophisticated design and planning, a large mobilisation of labour, as well as perfectly executed

GAME SET AND MATCH

IN the dynamic world of junior athletics, balancing rigorous training schedules with academic responsibilities has long been a challenge for young athletes and their families.

However, the rise of online schooling is revolutionising the way these young sports enthusiasts manage their education, offering a flexible and effective solution that caters to their unique needs.

As online schooling has grown since the pandemic, Crimson Global Academy has seen a significant surge in popularity across Europe, particularly among junior athletes. This educational model provides a tailored approach that allows students to pursue their sporting dreams without compromising their academic growth. With the ability to access live classes from anywhere, young athletes can now seamlessly integrate their training and competition schedules with their studies.

Flexibility for training schedules

One of the primary advantages of online schooling for junior athletes is its unparalleled flexibility. Traditional schools often struggle to accommodate the demanding schedules of young sportspeople, leading to missed classes and academic stress.

A game-changing education for junior athletes

Crimson Global Academy, on the other hand, offers customisable timetables with group classes, 1:1 tuition and even asynchronous options that can be adjusted to fit around training sessions and competitions. Crimson Global Academy also provides a personalised learning experience that can be particularly beneficial for opening up opportunities for junior athletes.

With smaller class sizes and individualised attention from teachers, students can receive the support they need to excel academically whilst not compromising on their sport.

This personalised approach helps tailor the school experience to match their individual goals, whether it be going pro or accessing scholarships for top universities.

Success Stories

Numerous success stories highlight the positive impact of online schooling on junior athletes in Europe. For instance, Timur, a 14-year-old tennis player who just won his category in the Tennis Europe U14 tournament, has been able to maintain his school attendance while training intensively and competing in tournaments. Previously, he had fallen behind due to the demands of international tournaments.

With CGA’s flexible scheduling and recorded sessions, now Timmy can study from anywhere and access any missed classes online.

Similarly, Caterina, a young equestrian from Italy, credits CGA for providing the flexibility needed to pursue her dream of gaining access to a top European university whilst

logistics,” said Jose Antonio Lozano Rodriguez, the lead author of a study published in Science Advances

The builders employed a system of inclined slopes and rollers to move the stones, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of mechanics.

The use of corbelled arches

and the way the stones were fitted together with precision measured in millimetres suggest a level of architectural sophistication that was previously thought to have developed much later.

The dolmen of Menga was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016.

maintaining a strict training schedule.

CGA’s 1:1 program marked a significant shift in Caterina’s academic experience. Caterina’s passion for horse training required a flexible schedule, something that CGA readily accommodated.

She managed her training sessions in the morning and attended her classes in the afternoon, taking advantage of CGA’s scheduling flexibility.

This unique setup allowed her to maintain her rigorous training schedule while not compromising her academic responsibilities.

Caterina explained: “At CGA, so many things are offered that are not in a normal school. And for athletes, it’s really amazing. It’s an amazing system. It really helps you achieve both your academics and your personal goals in whatever sport you’re doing, no matter the sport. I think it’s really a fundamental system for students that have other passions in their lives that they also want to focus on.”

The future of education for junior athletes As the demand for flexible and adaptive education solutions continues to grow, online schooling is empowering young sportspeople to achieve excellence both on the field and in the classroom.

As more families and athletes embrace this innovative approach, the future looks bright for the next generation of sporting stars in Europe.

DREAMS: Caterina and (below) Timur have been able to pursue their sporting ambitions and keep up with their studies

These 15 culture capitals of Spain will offer free events, food markets and more as part of the annual

‘Heritage Night’ this month

SEGOVIA

As if Segovia wasn’t already enchanting enough, Heritage Night will see it lit up with thousands of candles.

The Jewish quarter, Casa Museo Antonio Machado, Adarve de la Muralla, Puerta de San Andres and Calle Barrionuevo will take part in the candlelight events accompanied by live music.

There will also be a drone show and guided visits throughout the city.

Over a dozen landmarks will also be open to the public including the Alcazar, Cathedral, Palacio de Quintanar and the Torreon de Lozoya.

CACERES

Walking through Caceres is like walking back in time through mansions, Renaissance palaces and churches.

Much like Alcala de Henares, it is known for its storks, which nestle on the many towers and churches throughout the city.

Described as ‘one of

cluding the home of the daughter of an Aztec emperor, Moctezuma.

On September 14, the city will be lit up in a theatrical spectacle featuring circus acts, acrobats and pyrotechnics. Caceres has the most monuments open to the public than any other city, with 24

TARRAGONA

This Catalonian city is known for its historical reenactments bringing the Roman Empire back to life.

Essential sights like the Roman Circus and Amphitheatre will be open for visitors, with a range of guided visits.

History buffs will love the ‘Mapping Tarraco’ activity which allows you to discover the old Roman city.

TIME TO GET CULTURAL S

OME 15 cities across Spain will be transformed into hives of culture to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Spanish Cultural Heritage Cities Group (GCPHE).

On September 14, important historical sites will open their doors to the public with free dance, theatre and music performances, gastronomic events, workshops and guided tours. It is the seventh edition of the ‘Heri-

By Yzabelle Bostyn

tage Night’, a unique event designed to ‘make heritage come to life’. The GCPHE was created to protect cities declared world heritage sites by UNESCO.

But which cities are they and what events are they hosting to celebrate the anniversary?

BAEZA

This city in the province of Jaen was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003 thanks to its ‘stunning’ 16th century architecture.

Over the centuries, it has inspired the likes of Francisco Garcia Lorca with its romantic plazas, palaces and

churches.

To celebrate the 30th year of Spanish heritage cities, Baeza has some truly unique events including show cooking in the Patio de Empresas and a textile exhibit in the town hall.

Historic buildings will be opened to the public, including the Cerro del Alcazar, the Convento de la Encarnacion and the Capilla de los Benavides.

A fusion of the old and new, Cuenca is a menagerie of cobbled streets and ancient buildings housing a thriving abstract art scene. Set on a rock leaning over a gorge, it has gravity defying hanging houses, dramatic views and an iron footbridge only for the brave.

It was made a World Heritage Site in 1996 and will be celebrating this year with circus workshops, an open mic night and an escape room. The 12th century cathedral, hanging houses and various museums will also be open to the public.

SALAMANCA

This historic city has one of the oldest universities in Europe and still attracts many students to this day.

As a result, the centre has a lively, youthful feel which grows its ever evolving cultural programme.

This year’s heritage night will include a performance of Chicago: The Musical, an ‘Impossible’ Feria and theatre performances.

Attendees will also be able to enter the cathedral towers, Iglesia de Vera Cruz and the city walls for free.

September 4th - September 17th 2024

MERIDA

This Extremaduran city ‘brings the Roman Empire’ back to life with temples, baths, aqueducts and arches. It is even home to a still operating Roman theatre, which hosts an International Classical Theatre Festival each year. To celebrate its heritage, the city in Badajoz province will host a performance by dance duo Marcat Dance, expressing human connection through movement. Colombian singer Manuel Turizo will also perform, alongside theatre performances. Monuments and museums such as the Palacio de los Corbos and Alcazaba Arabe will also be open to the public.

Known for having some of Europe’s best preserved medieval walls, Avila has winding cobbled streets, interesting religious landmarks and impressive miradors During the festival, you can enjoy a free visit around these with a guided tour, tuktuk ride or theatrical tour.

Many monuments will also be open with free entry including the walls, the Bovedas del Carmen archaeological museum and the emblematic Palacio de Polentinos.

Continues on next page

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CORDOBA

The ‘City of Flowers’, Cordoba is known for its floral patios and rich history. Tourists find themselves wonderfully lost in the labyrinthine old town while searching for the city’s prettiest square. While normally visitors enjoy the famous dancing horses or flamenco spectaculars, the Heritage Night promises a dance performance like no other. British choreographer, Yinka Esi Graves will perform a flamenco inspired piece, also drawing on her experience in contemporary dance.

IBIZA

TOLEDO

A ‘city of three cultures’, Toledo still has its original medieval layout, making it a fascinating day trip from the capital.

A journey around the winding streets is sure to guide you to interesting museums and buildings.

Historic buildings from Christian, Jewish and Muslim religions will be open to the public, including Antigua Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca and the Oratorio de San Felipe Neri.

Each year, thousands of pilgrims flock to Santiago de Compostela in A Coruña province to complete the world famous Camino de Santiago.

Although many people know Ibiza as a party island, it is full of nature, culture and rural charm.

The archaeological site at Sa Caleta and necropolis at Puig des Molins show the historical importance of the island alongside the Alta Vila fortress.

Although little of Ibiza's programming for

Heritage Night has been released, it is set to take place between emblematic landmarks such as Ibiza Castle, the Can Marca cave and Dalt Vila walls. So far, a dance performance by Joaquin Collado has been announced, exploring male identities and relationships.

Almost 400 years after it was established, Alcala de Henares (Madrid) became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998.

The birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, Alcala is full of history.

From one of Europe’s oldest hospitals to the Cervantes museum, there’s events throughout the whole city to celebrate heritage night.

Catch a live band parading through the streets, concerts at the Convento de San Juan de la Penitencia or watch films at the Archaeological Museum.

ALCALA DE HENARES UBEDA SANTIAGO

The university city is a cradle of international culture and this September, it will host a range of activities to celebrate its centuries of heritage. Although the official line up has not been announced, it is thought events will take place around emblematic landmarks like the cathedral.

Famous for its world-class Renaissance architecture, this city is well trodden by tourists visiting Jaen in inland Andalucia.

The churches, palaces and mansions are surrounded by a landscape of olive groves, making it a historic and peaceful getaway. In typical Andalucian style, the city is offering an olive oil tasting to celebrate Heritage Night.

It is also offering planetarium visits, immersive museum experiences, concerts and talks.

Many of the main landmarks will be open to the public, with the majority offering guided visits.

SAN CRISTOBAL DE LA LAGUNA

The streets of San Cristobal de La Laguna (Tenerife) are always buzzing with street music, students and hundreds of bars.

Full of colourful houses and magnificent churches, there is plenty of history running through the cobbles.

Home to the first university in the canary islands, they are holding dance classes, drum making workshops and silbo gomero whistling classes to celebrate Heritage Night.

Iconic buildings like the Ermita de Santo Domingo, Casa Anchieta and Plaza del Adelantado will also be open to the public.

Less to pay

ANTICIPATED further interest cuts by the European Central Bank will contribute to significant falls in the Euribor - the main benchmark index for mortgages in Spain.

July’s Euribor rate was almost 1% down on a year ago, standing at 3.18% compared to 4.073%. It peaked last September with a monthly average of 4.149%.

Mortgage

The falling Euribor is good news for variable mortgage holders that have repayments reviewed either annually or bi-annually.

For example, a loan of €150,000 over 25 years would fall €40 per month to a new figure of €933.

Experts believe the downward trend in the Euribor rate will continue for the rest of the year as the European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to make perhaps two interest rate cuts in the next four months, on the back of a 0.25% reduction in June.

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PENSION LOST

Man’s mistake costs him state retirement benefits

A 69-YEAR-OLD Spaniard has lost his entitlement to a state pension despite working for 46 years.

The man, named Zahid, has lost a lengthy legal battle after his appeal was rejected by the Madrid High Court. A reduced state pension can be paid out after a minimum contribution period of 15 years. But, crucially for Zahid, two continuous years of contributions must have been made in the 15 years prior to retirement. In his case not only was he not

By Alex Trelinski

paying contributions, but he was not registered for work with social security, so no contributions were assigned to him as unemployed.

He was refused the benefit and decided to sue the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) and the General Treasury of Social Security (TGSS).

Zahid lost the original case at a Madrid Labour Court in October 2023 on the

grounds that he did not meet the two year contribution requirement just prior to retirement as he was

Liquid gold price fight

AN olive oil price war has ignited in supermarkets with Mercadona lowering the cost of a litre of the socalled ‘liquid gold’ of its Suave and Intenso varieties. Both products are now priced at €6.95 - down 67 cents. Mercadona has also announced a €2.91 reduction on three-litre bottles of the same brands and claims to have slashed olive oil prices by 25% so far this year.

The price battle is fuelled by wholesale market prices falling with expectations of a better olive harvest. Distributors are changing their profit margins to announce price cuts for the food product that produced the biggest inflationary rise in the last two years.

The escalation of olive oil prices during the last year led the government to extend the zero VAT charge until the end of September.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Extra flights

BUDGET airline EasyJet has announced five new routes between the United Kingdom and Spain which will launch next winter and summer.

The carrier is opening a seasonal base at London-Southend airport in March and will run new flights to Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, Almeria and Reus.

Before then - in December - it will open a weekly route between Edinburgh and Gran Canaria.

This year EasyJet opened a summer base at Alicante-Elche airport operating between April and October.

Three planes are based at Alicante with new routes linking up with Glasgow, Belfast, and Southampton with a 10% increase on seat availability compared to the 2023 summer season.

Pay up!

Visa charge next year for Brits visiting Spain

BRITISH tourists trav -

elling to Spain and other European Union countries will have to pay €7 to get a ‘visa waiver’ due to Brexit next summer.

It’s part of the EU’s updated travel rules which start in June 2025 known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) - designed to boost security measures for non-EU travellers entering the Schengen Area.

By Alex Trelinski

ETIAS is an automated IT system aimed at identifying potential security or health risks posed by travellers before they enter the EU.

Authorities say the automated system will simplify checks which took longer at traditional passport controls.

Once issued, the visa waiver will be valid for three

not up to date with contributions from when he was self-employed.

The bench said Zahid worked a total of 16,945 days of which 2,566 days were as self-employed

His pension application was submitted in November 2020 and before that, the INSS told him to pay self-employment contributions totaling around €12,000 that were still outstanding.

Those dates were between May 2008 to September 2010 and from January 2011 to August 2012, which would have brought him back into the 15-year prior to pension qualification period. He failed to do so.

years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

Big spenders

AMERICAN tourist numbers in Spain are rising and visitors are also spending big. Spain's Institute of Tourism - Turespaña - says spending by trans-Atlantic tourists is up by 35% on pre-pandemic levels. Turespaña noted a ‘robust’ increase in the US market last year with arrivals up by 15% and a 35% spike in spending compared to 2019. In raw figures, there were more than 3.8 million US visitors last year compared to 3.3 million in 2019. Money left in Spanish coffers rose from €5.8 billion to over €7.8 billion in 2023.

This new requirement applies to non-EU citizens from 60 countries who currently access visa-free travel within the EU.

British citizens will be eligible to use the visa waiver for stays of up to 90 days within a 180day period.

However,

upon entering the EU, they will also need to supply biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph.

The biometric data collection is part of the Entry/ Exit System (EES), which is planned to start in November 2025

The EES will work in parallel with ETIAS to keep tabs on potential security risks.

Upon arrival in Europe, all travellers will have to scan their passports at self-service kiosks.

But those not having an EU passport will also be required to provide biometric data, which will be stored and verified during future visits to the Schengen Area.

SPAIN'S annual inflation rate fell to 2.2% in Augustthe lowest figure since June 2023 when it stood at 1.9%.

The National Institute of Statistics (INE) figures show that reduced fuel prices were behind the fall along with a drop in food and non-alcoholic drink costs.

Inflation has now seen three consecutive months of decline, standing at 3.6% in May.

Finance Minister, Carlos Cuerpo, said it was good economic news as inflation falls towards the 2% target set by the European Central Bank.

Inflation drops TRAIN STRAIN

THE Spanish government has blocked a €600m bid from a Hungarian consortium for the train manufacturer Talgo, citing ‘risks to national security and public order’. Hungary’s Ganz-Mavag consortium, backed by the country’s populist leader Viktor Orban, has vowed to appeal before the Administrative Chamber of the Supreme Court and seek ‘compensation for all damages caused’ after the decision. Talgo’s shares plummeted 10% in the aftermath of the decision.

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JULY'S tourist figures in Andalucia fell by 5.2% compared to 2023 - the largest drop in two decades, barring the pandemic period.

A regional hospitality figure called the month ‘strange’ and blamed the Euro 2024 football tournament and English supporters going to Germany to watch the action.

Domestic tourism slumped by 11%, but foreign visitor numbers rose by 4.5%. The most affected areas were coastal provinces with Cadiz dropping by 10% over a year; a 6% fall in Malaga, and a 4% reduction in Huelva.

Inland Cordoba - popular for its rich heritage - saw a 9% drop, but Jaen was up by over 5% and Sevilla with just under 1%. Nevertheless, despite Andalucia's tourist fall, hotel overnight occupancy did rise by 0.5% in July compared to a year earlier- totalling 6.6 million stays and maintaining 40 months of successive growth.

WAIVER: Just a passport will no longer be enough as the ETIAS system comes online

DOWN: The numbers of tourists visiting Cadiz province fell 10%

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

November 29thDecember 12th 2023 LOOKING FOR MORE

September 4th - September 17th

KINGS OF THE WILD FRONTIER

AS the sun finally sets on a beautiful Alentejo evening you start to understand the many references to native Indian tribes.

This really is the true Wild West

with one of the lowest population densities on the continent.

So the stunning new off-grid hideout Twin Springs, near Almodovar, in inland Portugal, is a welcome lux -

fill its natural pools and provide its drinking water.

Entirely surrounded by nature, with not another building in sight, the noises come care of the breezes, the birds (I saw bee-eaters, eagles and storks) and the braying of a distant donkey.

And then there is the local shepherd, who passes a few times a week, the sheep bells alerting his arrival, while the continual trickling of water and wind chimes adds to the overriding sense of peace.

Think Spaghetti Westerns, minus the shooting. This is the sort of place that might have inspired Sergio Leone and you expect Lee Van Cleef to saunter in, his spurs clicking and his

The Twin Springs glamping estate near Almodovar, just half an hour from the Algarve will help you find your inner native American, writes Jon Clarke

gun in the holster at any moment.

The entirely natural wooden reception area and open kitchen/dining area, named ‘Last Chance Saloon’, accentuates the mood, but an honesty bar is thankfully well stocked with cold drinks, including wine and beer, and there is complimentary tea and coffee for guests.

The giant four-metre bell tents (named Navajo and Apache appropriately) sleep two in complete comfort, while there are additional smaller tents for children to sleep in, or simply play.

divided) as well as two smaller single beds for children, if needed. A third tent, Cherokee, fits a double bed. They are all full of rugs, throws and cushions keeping with the native Indian theme, while both swimming and bath towels are provided.

But the communal areas and, particularly, bathroom and toilet blocks are what turns this into a genuine ‘glamping’ resort and really makes this a must-stay for anyone looking to visit this largely unknown part of Portugal.

The brainchild of British expats Pauline and Sid Olivera, they starred in TV programme, A New Life in the Sun , this year, as they juggled lives between Spain, Gibraltar and Portugal, to prepare and launch the retreat.

Having run hairdressing businesses and

Each of the big tents comfortably fits a double bed (which can be radio stations from London to Gibraltar the pair have creativity and talent coming out of their ears, not to mention drive.

Best of all though was at night, as the sun set and the stars came out

A former Olive Press staffer, Pauline - who lived for many years near Ronda - explains: “We fell in love with this place the minute we found it. We had been wanting to do an eco-retreat like this in the Serrania de Ronda for years,

AUTHENTIC: The Last Chance Saloon has all mod cons despite looking like a shack from the historic Wild West

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

but it never quite happened.

“This has long been our dream and, like us, our guests love being at one with nature and being able to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.”

There was certainly a definitive ‘wow factor’ as we weaved our way down the

PEACE: The senand space, plus natural pool, are secret, hidden valley

narrow track towards the retreat, some ten minutes from Almodovar and just five from the sleepy Portuguese villages of Gomes Aires and Santa Clara-a-Nova.

The sense of freedom and space was the main takeaway, while having a base to explore this interesting region of Portugal was invaluable… the

HEALTH

Beware the heat

THE increasingly high temperatures experienced in Spain could see a surge in thrombosis, doctors have warned.

According to Juan Carlos Reverter, the president of the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis (SETH), in extreme heat ‘the blood does not circulate well’.

The expert said there are two heat-related factors that cause people to be at a greater risk of thrombosis.

Thrombosis is when a person’s blood clots due to it becoming thicker or due to their veins becoming clogged, or a combination of the two.

“With heat, the risk of dehydration can be greater and this increases the viscosity (thickness) of the blood," said Reverter.

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charming provincial city of Beja being just 45 minutes away and Evora a little bit further. The Vale do Guadiana national park is nearby, as is the Santa Clara lake district.

Even better are the legendary curries that Sid can knock up on request for guests, plus a range of other dishes, such as a Sunday roast.

They can also arrange your shopping, laundry and nearby trips.

Best of all though was at night, eating dinner as the sun set and then - with zero light pollution - seeing the amazing wide open sky full of stars come out. It was almost tempting to scrap the glamping tent altogether and sleep outdoors. But where then would be the glamour!

For September and October, Sid and Pauline are offering OP readers a special three nights for the price of two deal, plus an optional free curry. Visit www.twinspringsglamping.com or email pauline.olivera@yahoo.com

Fentanyl fears

US opiates pandemic reaches Spain

A SPANIARD has died from a suspected fentanyl overdose, after returning home from a trip to an undisclosed European country.

The man - in his mid-20’s - was at his parents’ house and began to feel ill and became agitated, and aggressive.

His family called for an ambulance which took him to Malaga’s Regional Hospital with the initial diagnosis being acute intoxication brought on by drug consumption. The man went into a coma and died a few hours later.

A Malaga court is now in-

OP Puzzle solutions

Quick Crossword

Across: 7 Victoria, 8 Upas, 9 Merthyr Tydfil, 10 The Sea, 11 Lunacy, 13 Ice, 14 Two-car, 16 Marina, 18 Opportunities, 21 Lulu, 22 Endorsed.

Down: 1 Sideshow, 2 Status, 3 Grey hair, 4 Fact, 5 Sudden, 6 Taxi, 11 Lemonade, 12 Convenes, 15 Crop up, 17 Retard, 19 Pius, 20 Tier.

By Alex Trelinski

vestigating the cause of his death after tests showed he took a high amount of alcohol and narcotics.

It’s believed he took cocaine and fentanyl - which is harder to detect than ‘traditional’ drugs.

Opiate

The US Drug Enforcement Agency has warned that the opiate is being used as a cutting substance for cocaine to make it more addictive and enhance its consumption.

Experts say that identifying fentanyl in certain circumstances is harder, especially if a deceased person has been in hospital and has received medicines which can camouflage the presence of the drug during post mortem tests.

The consumption of fen-

‘Lobster’ cockroach

A COCKROACH species new to Spain could be resistant to insecticides.

The University of Oviedo spent two years going through rubbish bins in the Asturias region to find the ‘lobster’ cockroach.

tanyl in Spain appears to be minimal and associated mainly with medical treatments.

In the United States, there’s a very different picture where it is estimated that fentanyl amongst drug users causes over 60,000 deaths each year.

Doctor Robotnik

VALENCIAN health authorities will start using Artificial Intelligence to ‘shorten diagnosis times and prioritise patients based on risk’.

The development will start in September and hopes to ‘improve hospital capacities’.

For example, AI will be used on breast cancer patients by entering details of the patient’s symptoms and prioritising treatment based on the calculated risk factor.

The programme also uses machine learning to scan mammograms and identify breast cancer.

The new breed had not been previously documented in Spain and now joins a list of invasive species.

Tolerance

Scientists discovered 149 specimens of the lobster cockroach but it is not known where it originated from.

Recent studies have shown that species such as the ‘blond’ cockroach, are developing a strong tolerance to pyrethroids - one of the most common insecticides available.

According to experts, these products could also be ineffective against ‘German’ cockroaches and possibly against the new lobster cockroach.

Beware the sun

Guiris move over

GALICIANS have a name for tourists who don’t respect their traditions –but it isn’t for Brits. They call hapless tourists from Madrid fodechinchos, which translates literally as ‘fish thieves’.

Hubby shock

A WOMAN found her husband was having an affair with the priest who married them after she caught them ‘kissing passionately’. When confronted, they said ‘it is what it is’ and ‘started laughing.’

Tinder-dona

THE new dating craze sweeping Spain is to turn up at Mercadona between 7 and 8pm with an upside down pineapple in your trolley to show you are single.

WATER DOGS

STRUGGLING swimmers on one Costa del Sol beach could find an unexpected saviour in the shape of eight highly-trained lifeguard dogs.

Torre del Mar has introduced the pioneering canine rescue unit, part of the MasreQ Emergency Canine Unit (U.C.E), ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice.

Consisting of three Newfoundlands capable of towing two tons and three labradors with exception- al search and rescue skills,

Lifeguard pooches help save swimmers

By Walter Finch

the program is the first of its kind in Andalucia.

The unit boasts two other dogs, including a mixed-breed named Pancho, who is known for his incredible ability in rescue work.

Having already been proven successful in Valencia, these dogs have undergone rigorous training to become water rescue experts.

“In just one year, we transform these pups into life-saving heroes,” said Manuel Duran, the program manager.

With their strength, endurance, and

keen senses, the canine lifeguards can perform tasks that would be difficult or dangerous for humans, be it rescuing swimmers caught in rip currents or searching for missing persons.

The safety of the dogs is paramount. Each one is equipped with specialised flotation devices, and their daily routines are carefully managed to ensure they stay healthy and hydrated.

“These dogs are more than just

Dr Keti Pachkoria is an international award-winning eye surgeon, specialist

She has trained at one of the wor ld ’s

rescue animals; they’re part of our family,” said Duran.

The success of the program has not gone unnoticed. With plans for expansion and public training sessions, Torre del Mar’s canine lifeguards are set to become a model for other coastal communities.

As Duran puts it: “These dogs are not just saving lives; they’re inspiring people and fostering a deeper connection between humans and animals.”

YOUNG supporters of UD Las Palmas gave their new star striker a surprising gift to celebrate his debut for the club - a bottle of aftersun. Oli McBurnie, who represents Scotland at international level, reportedly turned down a salary three times greater than what he earns at the Gran Canarian club in order to make his ‘dream move’ from the Premier League earlier this summer.

Ginger

With ginger hair, pale skin and an ironic surname, many Las Palmas supporters were worried how their new forward would adapt to the Canary Island’s sunshine. So after making his debut in a 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla, a group of young fans hatched a cunning plan - in exchange for McBurnie’s No.16 shirt, they would offer him a bottle of aftersun. Following his move from Sheffield United, McBurnie had joked that he was preparing for life in Spain by ‘buying four bottles of aftersun’.

PAW PATROL: Newfoundlands take to the seas to help save lives