Olive Press Newspaper – Issue 251

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Vol. 10 Issue 251

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

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Monkey bites fox

Foxes star Louisa bitten by monkey on a trip to Gibraltar Page 3

BANGED UP: Sammon bundled into police car and (inset) his campervan

Mafia town

How the CEO of organized crime corrupted a town hall Page 8

EXCLUSIVE: Expat tip leads Olive Press team to snare one of UK’s most wanted paedophiles

Secret Malaga It’s a true city of culture, but Malaga has so much more Page 16

A Vol. 10

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ll about

Issue 251

October 26th -

errania de Ronda

November 8th

2016

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www.theolivepress.es

October 26th -

November 8th

2016

ep, r de high Riveuntain mo

Rob Horgan goes native in the Serrania de Ronda and discovers the backroad gems of the Genal Valley

T

SOARING HIGH: The

view up to the city

from the Tajo gorge

and (top) a typical

town scene

HERE are few places in the world where beer with an army you can drink general stands all general … and even fewer where the Ronda, however, the rounds!

Celebrating a recent is one of those places. promotion with friends bar El Porton, an in quintessential olé away from Spain’s ish Legionnaire Carlos oldest Velo is eager to include bullring - SpanAfter introducing me in the party. quail eggs - Carlosme to the town’s signature tapa - jamon and Iraq, Afghanistan (above) regales me with tales from the ‘best place in and Bosnia before explaining why tours to Ronda is “I have been all the world’. over the world and says, taking a swig seen many things,” he back into his face. from his cana and pushing his glasses “But Ronda is the been to.” best place I have ever Originally from Madrid, ago when he joined Carlos moved to Ronda some its two national basesthe Spanish Legion, which has35 years one of here, counting on naires at present. around 800 legion“The quality of life in Ronda is like nowhere can live like a gentleman here, in Madrid I else in Spain. I everyone else. would just be like “Everything is affordable, if you like you can ing from tapas bar spend the to tapas bar and in your pocket. you will still have day gochange “And the scenery is breathtaking,” he adds. “The walks Continues on next

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In the Serrania Don’t miss our 12-Page Ronda supplement

Page 19

EAGLE-eyed Olive Press readers helped snag one of Britain’s most wanted fugitives in Spain, just hours after he had been named.

Following a tip off to the paper, suspected paedophile Matthew Sammon was dragged from his campervan in a dramatic nighttime raid and whisked away in an unmarked police car.

Working closely with informant Daniel Reid, we were able to firstly track down Sammon to Fuengirola, then call in the Guardia Civil to arrest him.

On the run for two years, Sammon - a blackbelt in Jujitsu was wanted in the UK for sharing indecent images of children.

His seizure came just 10 hours after he was named in Operation Captura and is the quickest recorded arrest in the joint UK and Spanish police operation.

“It was a fantastic result,” said Steve Reynolds, from the Nation-

WORDS AND PICS

By Rob Horgan and Laurence Dollimore

al Crime Agency, who arrived at the scene after the arrest.

“Well done Olive Press and thanks to the expat community for tipping us off, this is the reason we run these campaigns.”

The dramatic day had started when Crimestoppers issued its annual list of most wanted fugitives in Torremolinos on Thursday morning.

Leading to hundreds of press stories around the world and on national television, the hunt was immediately on.

But, it was to popular local newspaper the Olive Press that expat plasterer Reid, 40, reached out to, trusting us to ‘do the job properly’.

In a series of Facebook messages, he announced that Sammon, 45, had worked for him

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SUCCESS: Reid, Horgan, Reynolds and Brunt as a labourer and was currently living in a campervan around the Mijas and Fuengirola area.

Within an hour, the Olive Press team scrambled to Fuengirola, learning from another builder that he was currently camped out at the feria ground.

After a day working nearby, the Londoner duly arrived in his English-plated cream Moncayo campervan.

Parking up, he looked relaxed as he took his dog for a walk around the feria ground and spoke with neighbours.

Once identified, we called the Guardia Civil and Crimestoppers and so began a tense threehour waiting game, with Reid sitting in the car beside us.

Sky News crime reporter Martin Brunt was soon there too.

Eventually, as night had well and truly fell, an unmarked black BMW arrived and two plain clothes detectives swiftly moved in for the arrest, confiscating his passport and phone.

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car, Sammon covered his face and remained silent when questioned by the Olive Press.

He was then bundled into the BMW and taken to Madrid to be fingerprinted and prepared for extradition.

Following the arrest, father-oftwo Reid said he was ‘relieved’ to see Sammon taken away.

“As soon as I saw his face among the most wanted I felt sick,” said Reid, from Blackpool.

“I let him hang around my children, we took him in with open arms and at first were none the wiser.

“But we always thought he was a bit weird, he’s a real loner and never talks about his family.

“He creeped my family out so much that I fired him.”

Incredibly, police did not take any evidence from his campervan including his computer and other Continues on page 2

2

CRIME

www.theolivepress.es

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Operation Captura special Operation Captura special

No.2 in the bag!

FRom front page

In the bag

A CONVICTED rapist on the UK’s most wanted list has been arrested in Spain.

Fugitive Mohammed Jahangir Alam has been picked up in the popular holiday destination of Tenerife, the Olive Press can reveal.

Snagged while eating at a restaurant in the Playa de las Americas resort on Monday, Alam has been among Britain’s most wanted for a year.

Arrested by plainclothed Guardia Civil, he is currently being prepared for extradition, according to sources close to the investigation.

possible incriminating evidence.

On inspection, we found a ferry ticket from Cork, Ireland, to Roscoff, France, dating back to October 2014, when Sammon first went AWOL. His name was one of 10 issued on the 10th anniversary of Operation Captura in Spain.

Among the group were two Ambassador Manley said: “The UK and Spain face similar challenges from terrorism, organised crime, drug rings and human trafficking.

“The best way we can face these challenges is to work together, and we will continue to develop our close working relationship to fight international crime.

“We cannot allow these people to flourish.”

If you have seen any of the most wanted, contact the Olive Press at newsdesk@theolivepress.es.

Christmas special News, features, Bartie, food & drink, classifieds, PLUS 9 page The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

olive press

Vol. 3 Issue 48, Western Edition

Dec. 11 2008 - Jan. 07 2009

www.theolivepress.es

WHAT XMAS MEANS TO YOU Two whole days of eating, drinking, singing, arguing and laughing with Spanish in-laws (about 24 of them together!)

Lies Wajer Arriate

Page 3 girl in charity spat

● After nearly a month since we reported his whereabouts – and even sent photos – police have done nothing

HE is supposed to be one of England’s Most Wanted.

Included on a list of the most dangerous British criminals living in Spain, Daniel Paul Johnston,

But, despite the Olive Press informing police of his exact whereabouts over three weeks ago, nobody has bothered to pay him a visit.

Living in a village in in-

EXCLUSIVE

by Jon Clarke 28, is being sought for a series of violent robberies in Derbyshire.

Seasonal sprinkling

the olive press

IT was a charity golf day with a difference.

The charity got bunkered.

Assembled at prestigious El Chaparral golf course, in Mijas Costa, British page3 star Linsey Dawn McKenzie (above) stood proudly alongside her husband ex-international footballer Mark Williams to inaugurate the ‘Celebrity Golf Classic’.

Among a group of B and Continued page 5

Picture: KENTON SMITH

EXCLUSIVE

It’s too early for weathermen to be forecasting what’s in store for Christmas and the New Year.

However, a seasonal sprinkling of snow provided an ideal winter photo opportunity in Yunquera and the Sierra de las Nieves.

The Olive Press would like to wish all readers and advertisers a very merry Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

The next issue is due out on January 8th, 2009.

OUR XMAS SPECIAL BEGINS ON PAGE 15

land Andalucia - which we are not naming for legal reasons - the handyman/builder still uses Danny - his proper Christian name - and spends much of his day in his favourite pub.

Living rent-free with his girlfriend, he has an enviable life also getting regular handouts from his mum.

This is despite a spate of vicious robberies in the Swadlincote area, near Derby, between 2004 and 2006.

With his face partially covered and armed with a knife, on each occasion Johnston is alleged to have threatened staff in a series of off licences raids.

“These were serious crimes,” said Crimestoppers co-ordinator Debbie Ryan.

“He really scared the staff in these raids and we would expect to get a good custodial sentence for him, if convicted.”

But unfortunately after police arrested Johnston, Continued page 2

WALKING FREE: Johnston this week.

Identity covered for legal reasons

Picture: JON CLARKE

Not wanted ● How a dangerous criminal on the UK’s ‘Most Wanted’ list is being allowed to live a cushy life in Andalucia

TEPHEN Lawrence murder suspect Jamie Acourt is on a hit list of Britain’s 10 most wanted fugitives thought to be hiding in Spain.

Acourt is now wanted for drug dealing and is thought to be laying low in Spain’s British expat community.

The National Crime Agency and crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers have revealed the identities of suspects wanted for a range of crimes including murder, child sex exploitation and drug trafficking.

It comes on the tenth anniversary of Operation Captura, a collabaration between British and Spanish law enforcement agencies which has so far seen 77 out of 86 suspects apprehended.

The British suspects being hunted by police are:

g.t. mckenna THE IRISH FAMILY BUTCHER

A brilliant refreshing read, well done the Olive Press - have a great Xmas and looking forward to more scoops next year From Gerry and the gang!

Tel./Fax.: 952 930 351 C.C. Los Jarales 3, Calahonda km 197

FLASHBACK: 2009 issue

You can’t run from the OP

SUSPECTED paedophile Matthew Sammon is just the latest in a string of most wanted fugitives tracked down by the Olive Press.

Hiding out in Pruna, near Olvera, the first criminal on our hit list was violent bank robber Daniel Johnston.

After a tip off from an eagle-eyed reader, we tracked down and photographed Johnston at a pub where he was supping beers with his girlfriend.

Working as a handyman in the quiet inland village in Sevilla province, Johnston was living the good life until we got on the trail.

Feeding our information back to police, Guardia Civil arrested Johnston days later in a morning raid on his home.

And we did it again two years later with notorious drug dealer Steven ‘The Pirate’ Pitman.

Tracking his movements in Mijas for the best part of a year, the Olive Press lead police to his Riviera del Sol hideaway in 2010.

Now we got another in the bag, it is time to go for the next nine!

EXCLUSIVE

By Rob Horgan

Convicted for a rape in Cheltenham in March 2010, 33-year-old Alam was sentenced to 14 years in his absence.

Originally from Bangladesh, he moved to Bradford in 2007 before relocating to Cheltenham where he physically and sexually abused one victim.

He is believed to have fled to Spain in 2008 and has been on the Crimestop-

pers most wanted list since March 2015.

A source told the Olive Press: “The arrest was carried out by Spanish police.

“It was a quick operation and Alam will now be taken to Madrid where he will be finger-printed and prepared for extradition tomorrow.”

Another source close to Spanish police said: “This man’s face has appeared on many occasions, but we never gave up trying to find him.

“This is excellent news.”

S

Opinion Page 6

theFREE

Convicted rapist picked up in Tenerife

Dominic McInally, aged 25, from Liverpool: Wanted by Merseyside Police on suspicion of conspiracy to supply cocaine. McInally is the alleged leader of a drug trafficking gang that expected to bank £1.25m every month.

He is described as 178cm tall and has blond hair.

CAUGHT: Alam

Jonathon Kelly, 36, from Glasgow: Wanted by Police Scotland to serve remaining sentence of nine years 10 months for a number of serious assaults. Kelly, who is extremely violent, was convicted at various courts of a number of offences between 2002 and 2010. He is described as 180cm tall, heavy build, blue/grey eyes, short brown hair, Scottish accent, and occasionally has a beard. Also has scars to the left and right side of the face, on his arms and his right hand.

The hunt is on Stephen Carruthers, 43, from Bury: Wanted by Cumbria Police on suspicion of 18 offences of making indecent photographs of a child. Carruthers was arrested by police, who recovered a computer containing 5,332 indecent images of

children. He is described as 172cm tall, medium build, short brown hair or shaved head and has blue eyes.

Jamie Acourt, 40, from South London: Wanted on suspicion of conspiracy to supply cannabis resin be-

tween 1 January 2014 and 1 February 2016.

He is described as 173cm tall, athletic build, pale complexion, dark brown hair, brown eyes, and sometimes wears glasses.

He was connected to the Stephen Lawrence murder.

On the gold trail of Don Mark AN Olive Press investigation has found traces of most wanted fraudster Mark Acklom in Murcia.

The 43-year-old lothario has been involved in a series of property scams around the area, alongside his Spanish wife Maria Yolanda Ros Rodriguez.

Using the names Marc Ros, Mark Ross, Zack Moss, Dr Mark Ros and Don Marc Ros, he is believed to be behind numerous scams, mostly in Murcia and on the Costa Blanca.

But now his time is apparently running out, after being named on a list of Britain’s Most Wanted fugitives.

The conman is being sought over his defrauding of a an ex-girlfriend in the UK out of €950,000.

According to Crimestoppers, he convinced Carolyn Woods, from Gloucestershire, he was an MI6 agent before persuading her to lend him an initial €29,000.

“He told me he had never felt this way about anyone and that we must get married,” said Woods, 55, “In the end, I lent him everything.”

Privately-educated Acklom is said to have started his fraudster lifestyle as a child, when he stole his mother’s mink coat to sell for a fast buck.

At 16, he stole his father’s American Express card and racked up a €12,000 bill before posing as a stockbroker in a €1.2 million fraud.

SCAMMER: Mark Acklom Despite spending more than ten years of his life behind bars in the UK and Spain, Acklom, from Bromley, hasn’t been able to change career paths.

He first came to Spain in the late 1990’s, and by 1998 he served two years for a fraud involving unpaid hotel rooms.

He was arrested again six years later

in Benidorm for a con in which he posed as the head of a real estate consortium, when he did not own the land he said he would build on.

He was later locked up for a €14 million property scam and again in 2013 for conning two brothers out of €225,000.

When he next appeared in court in Switzerland he claimed to be married to Spaniard Maria Yolanda Ros Rodriguez, who was pregnant with his child.

An investigation has tracked her down to Murcia, where locals told the Olive Press she has recently launched a luxury estate agents, which also operates in Madrid, after leaving her sales post at La Manga golf resort.

It is not clear to what extent she was involved in the fraudulent behaviour of Acklom.

Acklom vanished after being released in March of this year and there is now a European Arrest Warrant on his head, as well as a €22,000 reward for his arrest.

A source told the Olive Press he has good reasons to be hiding out in Spain.

“Mark bought gold bars as a form of insurance. They’re buried under a friend’s garden in Spain - so if he loses everything he can dig them up.”

Shane O’Brien, 28, from London: Wanted by the Metropolitan Police on suspicion of murder.

In October 2015 O’Brien was in a wine bar in Middlesex with several friends. It is alleged that O’Brien approached a man called Josh Hanson who was with his girlfriend at the bar, removed an item from his coat pocket and plunged it into the his neck.

Simon McGuffie, aged 41, from Liverpool: Wanted by The North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (Titan) on suspicion of being a member of a Merseyside organised crime group involved in the large-scale supply of Cocaine, Heroin and Cannabis across the North West. He has a scarred right arm and distinctive 2” scar to the right cheek.

Mark Quinn, aged 52, from Liverpool: Wanted by Police Scotland on suspicion of supplying amphetamine.

Between August 2013 and April 2014 Quinn was allegedly involved in an organised crime group concerned in the production, transportation and distribution of amphetamine with a street value of over £11m. He is described as 5ft 9ins tall, large build and has short brown hair.

Sarah Panitzke, 42, from Fulford: Wanted by HMRC for conspiracy to acquire criminal property. Panitzke was a senior member of a crime group involved in a VAT fraud. Panitzke travelled extensively to further the fraud to places including Dubai, Spain and Andorra. She was responsible for laundering approximately £1billion. She is described as 170cm tall, slim build with mousey straight hair, blue eyes and has a Yorkshire accent.

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www.theolivepress.es

October 26th - November 8th 2016

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Bad souvenir

Spain of thrones THE Game of Thrones cast have been spotted hanging out in Spain.

A dedicated fan snapped some secret photos of cast members as they were recording for season G.O.T: Filming and at museum (below) seven of the hit fantasy TV series in Caceres, Extremadura.

The cast were also snapped celebrating Emilia Clarke’s birthday.

The actress, who plays platinum-blonde-haired Daenerys Targaryen, AKA the mother of dragons, celebrated her 30th with a trip to the Guggenheim museum, in Bilbao.

Actors Kit Harrington and Conleth Hill can be seen posing with Emilia.

Season seven is expected to the penultimate for the hit show, and will air sometime next April.

BRITISH singer Foxes has revealed she was attacked by a monkey during her last visit to Gibraltar.

Foxes, AKA Louisa Rose Allen, said she was touring the Upper Rock following her Gibraltar Music Festival gig in September when a macaque ape went for her arm. She described the incident as ‘weird’ but insisted she still loves monkeys despite the massive bruise on her arm.

“I was nowhere near the monkey, I was completely down the other side and wasn’t upsetting it,” she said, “I just kept my distance but a female monkey ran and bit me on my arm. “It’s like I’ve got a really bad souvenir from Gibraltar, but I still love monkeys.”

Un-belieb-able HAPPY: Elliot and Sadie

Double wedding LOCAL celebrity Elliot Wright is not messing around when it comes to his nuptials.

The La Cala restaurateur, who has his own TV show in the UK, is to have two separate weddings next year.

He and girlfriend Sadie Stuart, who got engaged in June after a whirlwind 10 months together, will have two bashes, one on the Costa del Sol and another back home.

While Sadie is keen to tie the knot at home in Britain, Elliot wants to celebrate at his restaurant Olivia’s.

Elliot confirmed: “We’re now looking into both. She’s taking liberties – she wants an expensive wedding in the UK and then a big wedding party at Olivia’s in Spain! I don’t know what we’ll do!”

LOCALS of a minute Spanish settlement went into meltdown when Justin Bieber’s website mistakenly announced he would be touring there in November.

Villagers in Belmonte de Tajo, which has just 1,400 residents, could not belieb their small town would be hosting such a huge concert.

Twitter soon went into overdrive as word spread across Spain that the unassuming town some 65km from Madrid would be hosting one of the world’s biggest stars.

Town mayor Amador Salinas soon broke the news that it was all a mistake, but not before joining in on mocking the error.

Location gaffe leads to excited Spanish villagers

BALLS UP: Mistaken town and Bieber (right)

“There are no parties planned for November here so we’re not sure how to prepare for this event,” he said.

“I suppose we could always get the football stadium ready but we’re a bit short of time.”

The error showed that the 22

Exposed

WHOOPS: Presenter reveals breast

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The only way is Spanish

A SPANISH TV star stormed off set after the presenter pulled down her dress and exposed her breasts.

The clip of Yola Berrocal, 46, who was once known for having the largest breasts in Spain, has since gone viral.

It shows the presenter make a ‘careless hand gesture’ which causes the dress to fall.

Berrocal is then forced to relive the embarrassing moment as it is replayed on huge screens all around the studio and set.

The clip has been viewed more than 2.3 million times.

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year old would be performing at a privately-owned semi-detached house.

While pictures of the redroofed home opposite a bus stop boasted a few plastic chairs and tables in the front garden, it didn’t seem capable of catering to thousands of screaming Beliebers.

Town hall officials said they were bombarded with phone calls after the gaffe.

One local jokingly said: “If Justin really wants to come here, we’ve got a small municipal centre he could use.

“But thousands of people are going to descend on the village if he does end up here and I think so many Beliebers in such a small space could be dangerous.”

REALITY TV star Sam Faiers has been criticised for giving her six-month-old son Spanish lessons.

Probably preparing her boy Paul for the many family trips to ‘Marbs’, the 25-year-old Essex lass said she wanted him to learn the language because of her connection to Spain.

She lived in Marbella from a young age and was fluent as a toddler.

The original TOWIE cast member made the comments during her new reality show The Mummy Diaries, but some viewers blasted the lessons as ‘ridiculous’.

“He can’t even walk yet, it’s stupid!” one said.

Others supported the move, agreeing with experts who have since said that it’s never too early to begin teaching children another language.

Language school Bilinguasing said: “Decades of research suggest that introducing babies to a second language before they are six months helps to shape the brain at its most flexible stage.”

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www.theolivepress.es NEWS IN BRIEF

Freedom fight UP to 40 migrants held a protest on the roof of the Madrid detention centre, shouting ‘freedom, freedom’ to demand their release.

Mind the gap TAX evasion and fraud is costing the Spanish economy more than €6 billion per year, according to an EU investigation into tax fraud.

Summer time MADRID is set to decide whether or not the Balearic Islands can ditch moving their clocks back and stay on summertime indefinitely.

IOU SPAIN has only managed to pay back 5% of the €51.3 billion the EU spent on bailing out its banks.

Mystery expat death at airport AN investigation has been launched into the strange death of a Brit found at Malaga airport.

Homeless man Steven Alford’s dead body was found semi-naked and bound near the airport with a slice of ham on each buttock and his genitals in a tuna can.

The 51-year-old - an alcoholic, who was also believed to be schizophrenic - died of asphyxiation and drowned on his own vomit.

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Amy stepdad in beating MISSING expat Amy Fitzpatrick’s stepdad has been beaten up in a prison brawl.

Dave Mahon’s jaw was broken in two places following a fight in the showers at Wheatfield Prison, Dublin.

The 45-year-old Irishman was found unconscious by prison guards after the attack.

The former Costa del Sol businessman is serving a seven-year sentence for killing his stepson Dean Fitzpatrick.

He is currently appealing the severity of his manslaughter sentence, despite admitting that he was holding the knife that killed Dean.

In fact, Mahon claims the Dean ran onto the knife outside their Dublin house.

Secret auction British pensioners lose dream holiday home to Spanish neighbour in property spat AN expat couple have been given 30 days to vacate their dream holiday home after the town hall sold it at auction without them knowing.

British pensioners Adrian and Margo Campbell have been ordered to hand their two-bed home over to their Spanish neighbour in Tozar, Granada, after she bought it at auction.

The €50,000 property was sold off after neighbour Adoracion Gonzales submitted a complaint about damp in her house, resulting from works carried out at the Campbell’s adjoining property.

It led to a Granada Court ruling

EXCLUSIVE

By Rob Horgan

that they had to pay Gonzales €43,000 in damages.

However, as they were back in the UK and did not know about the ruling, they were unable to defend themselves and did not know about the result.

The first time they heard about the auction was in March this year and after a failed appeal in Granada’s courts, they have no choice but to hand over the keys.

“It is an absolute travesty,” Glaswegian Adrian, 65, told the Olive Press. “We didn’t know about it until it was too late to

CHEATED: Campbells’ holiday home sold at auction do anything. contact us when they knew it “It is so sad, we have so many was a holiday home we rarely memories here, bringing our visited. kids here when they were “But the court didn’t agree young, we even spent Christ- which is devastating.” mases and New Years here.”

Despite now appealing to the The former IT technician add- High Court in Madrid, they are ed: “It is quite clear the courts still being told to hand over the did not try sufficiently hard to keys while they await a hearing.

LYING LOW: Rifaat

Marbella hide-out

THE uncle of Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has been hiding out in his pad at the exclusive Gray D-Albion estate in Marbella.

Rifaat al-Assad, 79, flits between his nine-bedroom house in Mayfair, London and his Marbella dwelling while his country suffers through its bloody civil war.

Rifaat is also suspected of acquiring his wealth through illegal means and has had his assets in France – worth around €100m – frozen by authorities.

But while he continues to face probes, his assets remain active in the UK and Spain.

He was forced into exile in 1984 for trying to overthrow his older brother, the late Syrian President Hafez al-Assad, and it is expected he stole his fortune from Syria’s coffers when he commanded the country’s security forces in the 1970s and early 1980s.

Rifaat’s gated Marbella pad is serviced by 24 hour security and backs onto the Puerto Banus beach front.

www.theolivepress.es

October 26th - November 8th 2016

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www.theolivepress.es Voted top expat paper in Spain

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 200,000 copies distributed monthly (130,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 500,000 people a month.

OPINION

Serving society

IT is never more satisfying to see your hard work going to good use.

And when local expats pull together with the media AND police, it is little short of staggering.

So, we stand proud this week in the knowledge that one of our stories and a reader combined to get a dangerous paedophile banged up for the heinous crimes he had committed.

When we put up the mugshots of the UK’s Most Wanted fugitives in Spain we had no idea we would get a phone call within an hour.

Enter expat hero Danny Reid who not only fingered Matthew Sammon, but he gifted him to us on a plate… and even the police played ball!

Hook, line and sinker, the quickest arrest of a felon in Crimestoppers 10 year history here.

Coincidentally, this is not the first time we have tracked down and snared one of Britain’s most wanted.

We did it in 2008 with a bank robber Daniel Johnston hiding out in Pruna, near Olvera, and then we did it again two years later with Steven ‘The Pirate’ Pitman.

If you ever wanted to understand the necessity for a healthy, strong press, wherever you are in the world, then this is it.

Now for the next nine!

Giving Spain a bad name

IT is unfathomable that a family’s home can be put up for auction and sold without them being notified.

How could the courts let this happen? It seems totally unfair considering that as soon as the owners discovered the ruling they appealed and attempted to go through the correct steps.

It’s probably safe to say the courts did the least amount possible in trying to track down the Campbells.

They should be ashamed of what they have put this family through.

It’s cases like this than can give Spain a bad name and put off potential buyers from investing in the country.

Publisher/ Editor

Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es

Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: (+34) 665 798 618

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J

feat u re

OSE Manuel Garcia Margallo wasn’t hanging around for dessert.

Spain’s acting foreign minister exited his much-vaunted Hotel Guadacorte Park luncheon and headed for his royal-blue Ford limousine.

For the past two hours, he had regaled 250 Campo politicians and businessmen over beef and Navarra red. They had listened to - and occasionally applauded - his grand plan for Gibraltar.

The British Territory’s Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, and some 100 Gibraltarian politicos and organisations who were also sent invitations to lunch had declined. They would have choked on it.

Now it was time for the PP minister to return to Madrid … and one last question.

“Mr Margallo, why are you persisting with a plan that so clearly won’t have the consent of the UK government or the Gibraltarian people?” I asked the departing figure as a phalanx of officials ushered me aside.

“Joint sovereignty will come with the consent of the Gibraltarian people,” he answered.

“But they aren’t going to give their consent?”, I suggested.

“I think that will come,” he replied before disappearing behind a darkened car window. The words carried more than a hint of menace.

Welcome to the new Margallo. Same as the old

DISPUTED GROUND: Entry to Gibraltar

Margallo. Gibraltar’s public enemy number one blew into Algeciras last Tuesday on a gust of hardnosed plans and diplomatic bonhomie. Fired up by the Brexit Leave vote, this was the day Margallo planned to outline his scheme for joint sovereignty over Gibraltar to Andalucia’s movers and shakers.

It was supposed to signal the start of a more conciliatory approach from the controversial politician.

In truth, it was more of the same.

First up was an Algeciras Town Hall reception, where the city’s mayor - and Margallo supporter - José Ignacio Landaluce warmly embraced his fellow PP representative, Inside the Town Hall’s ornate chamber, Margallo signed the book of honour. Landaluce pinned the city’s insignia onto Margallo’s lapel. In return, Margallo presented a copy of his 2015 political book All The Clouds Fly To Spain: Letters From An Aeroplane.

He was soon outlining his vision of post-Brexit, cross-border relations.

“Nothing is going to be the same because the UK leaving means Gibraltar has to leave too,” he said.

“This is going to cause economic commotion for ‘the colony’ (sic) and it’s an historic opportunity for the Campo de Gibraltar.

“We are in new times.”

Margallo went on to speak about wishing to preserve the Rock’s wealth. But, of course, this is a man who has also expressed a wish to plant Spain’s flag on the Rock. So when Margallo issues fine words about having Gibraltar’s best intentions at heart, Gibraltarians are understandably, sceptical. At best.

Margallo’s three-pronged assault on the Campo de Gibraltar’s political class next took him the short drive to the Mancomunidad de Municipios, which represents the Campo’s seven municipalities.

The media scrum circling the press conference lectern had a long wait. Inside, Margallo was hammering out his ideas to Campo politicians during his first visit to the area since taking office. After an hour and 45 minutes, he finally reappeared and addressed the press corps.

“We are at an historic change,” he announced.

“One of those changes that come along very few times in history. From this moment, nothing is going to be the same.

“It’s the not the same, ‘the colony’ of Gibraltar with the UK in the EU and Gibraltar with the UK outside of the EU. “It’s true that it takes a long time to change mental habits,” he said, a tellingly derogatory phrase used to describe Gibraltarians’ strongly-held allegiance to British nationality. “And yet, in some minds there exists the illusion that because the UK is leaving the EU, the Gibraltar ‘colony’ can maintain the same status it has now, where the citizens of Gibraltar can be British citizens while enjoying the benefits of belonging to the EU. “But that can’t be, and is impossible.”

Margallo went on to describe the four ‘pillars’ of his plan.

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Margallo makes move

Gibraltarian politicians were conspicuous by their absence as their public enemy number one travelled to Algeciras to outline his joint sovereignty plans for the Rock. Joe Duggan was there

HARD-HEARING: Margallo’s entourge looked distinctly uninterested during talk

“Joint sovereignty between Spain and the UK,” he continued.

“We have to resolve the problem of the Gibraltar military base. Thirdly, Gibraltarians to have joint British and Spanish nationality, a privilege that only they would have. Autonomous government as outlined in the Spanish constitution.”

When asked by GBC’s Jonathan Scott what he would do once Gibraltarians rejected his ‘deal’, Margallo was unequivocal.

“There are automatic consequences,” he intoned.

“Gibraltar becomes a third party to the European Union. Therefore the frontier becomes an external frontier of the EU. “Gibraltar will be outside the single market. The four freedoms will cease to apply. That’s exactly what the EU treaty says: it’s not what we say we will do, it’s what will happen.”

I then posed another question. “The UK government has told you very clearly that Gibraltar will stay British,” I say to him. “Why do you think they are going to change their position now?”

“The jurisprudence of the court of European justice says Gibraltar is a colony that doesn’t form part of the UK,” a clearly riled Margallo rapped back.

“What we are trying to do is search for a formula that allows Gibraltarians to continue being part of the EU without losing their idiosyncrasies.”

‘Idiosyncrasies’. Another carefully chosen, derisory word?

Over lunch at Guadacorte Park, Margallo affected statesmanlike pomp, quoting Churchill and welcoming the gathered throng. But the mask slipped as he took a series of questions submitted in writing by the lunch guests. Among them, was one on the Gibraltar national football team.

“We have done everything to stop Gibraltar having a national team, and every time they play we do everything to ensure it has the least impact possible,” he said, before shrugging his shoulders and flashing a smile at the audience. Football will always bring out a crowd’s partisan nature. But what Margallo has outlined is deadly serious. And it has to be asked if UK politicians really appreciate the gravity of what Margallo is proposing for Gibraltar.

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Feat u re

‘You will win. But you

T’S October 12, 1936 – Columbus Day – and Spain’s top brass are gathered in the great hall of Salamanca University - within a hundred yards of Franco’s headquarters – to hear its 72-year-old Dean deliver his National Day address.

Miguel de Unamuno is a great orator, known to be outspoken. But he is considered to be a Franco supporter so nothing untoward is expected, especially on this day, in front of such an audience.

The chamber is packed with Blue Shirt fascists and eminent professors seated on crimson-covered divans, wearing silk gowns and mortarboards topped with tassels in red, yellow, light and dark blue, denoting Law, Medicine, Letters and Science.

Among the crowd is General Franco’s wife, Dona Carmen Polo, and el caudillo’s sadistic henchman, the one-armed, one-eyed General Millan Astray.

Outside, the three-month-old Spanish Civil War rages on. Inside, the atmosphere is taut.

“Viva la Muerte!” — Long Live Death!”, General Astray shouts, his grotesque mutilations and black eye patch lending a sinister appearance as he damns Spain’s Republicans.

Ranks of stiff-armed fascist salutes and cries of ‘Franco, Franco’ fill the pattern of mass psychology. room.

“That would be appalling. A cripple All eyes turn towards Unamuno as who lacks the spiritual greatness he slowly rises... of Cervantes — a man, not a superDauntingly articulate, the Basqueman, virile and complete, in spite of born author, philosopher, playhis mutilations — a cripple, I said, wright, poet and professor of Greek who lacks that loftiness of mind, was the central figure in Spain’s is wont to seek ominous relief in intellectual life at that time. causing mutilation around him.

His political beliefs had already “Because he is unpopular, General landed him in hot water in 1924, Millán Astray would like to create when the dictator General Miguel Spain anew — a negative creation Primo de Rivera overthrew the — in his own image and likeness. government and Unamuno pubAnd for that reason he wishes to lished articles criticising the new see Spain crippled, as he unwitregime. His punishment was exile tingly made clear.” to Fuerteventura in the Canary IsThe room listened in stunned silands – the Island of Wind in Manlence to this astonishing verbal uel Menchón’s new film, screening assault. But the glowering Astray at Spanish cinemas this autumn – could restrain himself no lonwhere he remained until the dictager. ‘DEATH TO INTELLECTUALS!! tor was toppled.

DOWN WITH INTELLIGENCE’” he By 1936, Spain’s deep political yelled. and social divisions had fractured Others, incensed at Unamuno’s into all-out conflict. defiance, piled in.

Unamuno had ini“Down with false tially supported intellectuals! TraiFranco’s July militors!’ shouted José tary uprising. But Maria Pemán, a ‘This is the temple three months on, right-wing journalhe had become of intellect and I ist from Cadiz. sickened with the Arguments broke slaughter it had un- am its high priest!’ out in the audileashed. ence. Academics The audience asformed a protecsembled at the tive shield round University of SalaUnamuno. Blue manca that October morning knew Shirt guards rallied alongside the nothing of this change of heart. humiliated Astray.

Most had come to praise the war’s Unamuno continued. chief architect, General Franco.

“This is the temple of intellect and I All eyes turned to Unamuno as he am its high priest!” It is you who are began to speak. profaning its sacred precincts.

“All of you are hanging on my “I have always, whatever the provwords,” he said. “At times, to be erb may say, been a prophet in my silent is to lie. For silence can be own land. interpreted as acquiescence.

“You will win, but you will not con“I want, however, to comment on vince. You will win, because you the speech — to give it that name possess more than enough brute — of General Millán Astray. force, but you will not convince, “Just now, I heard a necrophilic and because to convince means to persenseless cry, ‘Long live Death!’ suade. And in order to persuade This outlandish paradox is repelyou would need what you lack — lent to me. reason and right in the struggle.

“General Millan Astray is a cripple.

“I consider it futile to exhort you to Let it be said without any slighting think of Spain. I have finished.” undertone. He is a war invalid. So It was a remarkable oration. Unawas Cervantes. But extremes do muno was quickly led from the not make the rule: they escape room by fellow professor, Don Esit. Unfortunately, there are all too teban Madruga. On his other arm, many cripples in Spain now. And an ashen-faced Carmen Polo do soon, there will be even more of Franco left in stunned silence. them if God does not come to our News soon found its way to Franco, aid. who wanted Unamuno shot for his “It pains me to think that General insolence. But fears his execution Millán Astray should dictate the would spark international outrage

Each print issue of the Olive Press can be read in its entirety on October 26th - November 8th 2016 www.theolivepress.es And our site is updated daily with the latest news, making it one of Spain’s most visited news websites.

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As The Island of Wind honouring one of Spain’s great intellectuals hits cinema screens, Joe Duggan recalls the day Miguel de Unamuno bravely defied Franco

led to him being placed under house arrest.

The Salamanca speech was Unamuno’s last public address. He died of a haemorrhage on New Year’s Eve, 1936.

But 80 years on, the courage of his words stand as testament to the might of reason.

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Yes, Prime Minister IT is anything but the glowing mandate he would have wanted.

But, it finally looks like Spain’s acting Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is to become Prime Minister again.

The breakthrough comes after his bitter socialist rivals agreed to abstain in this week’s confidence vote, ending ten months of deadlock and after two general elections.

Spain has been in limbo with no party gaining a majority and was set to be heading to the polls again in December.

The PSOE voted by 139 to 96 to smooth Rajoy’s attempt to form a government before October 31.

It shows the clear divisions within the party, which has been embattled by a leadership challenge following the resignation of former leader Pedro Sanchez earlier this month.

Party secretary Javier Fernandez claims the PSOE will continue as the opposition to a new conservative government.

ACCUSED: Sanchez

By Rob Horgan

CIVIL servants and an architect claim they were forced to falsify documents to allow gangsters’ money to be laundered on the Costa del Sol. The employees at Casares town hall insist they were ordered to cover up reports and valuations to allow Russian mafia to corrupt two ex-mayors.

In a sensational trial - dubbed the ‘mini-Gurtel’ by local political figures - nine councillors, including two mayors, are accused of laundering millions through illegal construction.

In the so-called Caso Majestic, which the Olive Press has investigated for a decade, it is claimed Armenians Robert Mani and Robert Gaspar laundered millions in illegal constructions in Casares, on the bidding of their boss Ricardo Fancini (pictured right).

Half Polish, half Italian Fancini - dubbed the ‘CEO of organised crime in Europe’ - was also involved in a similar shady corruption case surrounding the Hipodromo racecourse in

P olitics

October 26th - November 8th 2016

MAFIA TOWN!

Rule breakers MAFIA MEN: Gaspar (above) with Max Clifford and (below) Mani with former Mijas mayor Antonio Sanchez

Town hall staff claim were ‘forced to falsify documents’ to allow mafia millions to corrupt planning laws

Mijas.

But in Casares Town Hall he found an apparently easier, more compliant way to do business.

“The Russians treated the town hall as if it was their house,” a town hall worker claimed in court documents, seen by the Olive Press.

“They were the ones making the decisions. The mayors were simply working for them.”

The prosecutor at Malaga Provincial Court is demanding an 18-year sentence and a €1.2 million fine for ringleader Juan Sanchez, who served as mayor for 25 years.

He is accused of money laundering and breaking planning laws by taking huge fees in return for issuing illegal licences to build the Majestic housing estate between 2000 and 2005.

As the Olive Press revealed, the Russian ‘Kremlyoskaya’ gang, further laundered millions in radio and TV stations, ostensibly to promote the development.

Set up by celebrated Irish media mogul Maurice Bolland, Majestic TV and REM radio spent millions on the best quality equipment and paid staff well over the odds.

Celebrities

Boland was paid €20,000 a month, while they forked out tens of thousands flying in celebrities from the UK and hired disgraced PR mogul Max Clifford for tens of thousands.

However, the charade came to an end, with the tap firmly turned off, when police swooped to arrest Sanchez in 2012, with Mani picked up later.

Gaspar remains on the run, while Fancini is serving a 20year prison sentence in the US for money laundering and

arms possession.

Police embargoed 236 houses, 165 bank accounts and 19 cars, including Sanchez’ top of the range Mercedes in the initial operation.

Sanchez, who represented the communist IU party, started his career as a politician in the infamously bent GIL party set up by disgraced ex-mayor of Marbella Jesus Gil. The court case has now been postponed to March after the defendants claimed evidence presented in opening statements had not been listed before the start of the trial.

They added it is based on hearsay, not facts.

While the prosecutor rejected the claims, insisting they ‘knew all the evidence’ to be presented, the judge agreed to suspend the case until March.

SPAIN’S ruling PP party advised officials how to break campaign spending rules without attracting attention.

A power-point presentation was used to teach PP mayors around the country how to exceed the legal limit without being discovered.

Created in the height of the Gurtel scandal - for which dozens of former officials are currently on trial - it explained how to divert donations to different bank accounts.

This money was then used to pay for propaganda adverts and billboards, but the costs were hidden by listing bills as non-campaign items like ‘desks’ or ‘fences’.

The Gurtel trial has heard from alleged ringleader Francisco Correa, who has so far refused to link any politicians to the corruption scandal.

In total, €450 million was supposedly diverted in illegal funding including money paid to three former treasurers including Luis Baracenas.

In total, 37 former high-ranking PP political figures are going on trial.

Power play THE PSOE are now ruling in a minority in Manilva after sacking their IU partners.

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Jolly bad EXCLUSIVE

by Joe Duggan

A NOTORIOUS British conman with close links to Gibraltar is thought to be the mastermind behind a huge global investment fraud.

Marbella-based Brett Jolly, 56, who is behind a number of companies in Gibraltar, is believed to be the head of Privilege Wealth (PW), exposed this week as an alleged multi-million pound scam.

Fraudster with links to Gibraltar and Marbella suspected of global scam The multi-national operation, which is part-registered in Gibraltar, has allegedly raised hundreds of millions of pounds from investors, including British pension schemes.

But David Marchant, a USAbased investigative journalist, has uncovered evidence that the scheme has ‘no substance’ and is simply ‘a vehicle to swin-

MPs don’t care about Gibraltar LORD Ashdown has condemned British politicians who ‘don’t appreciate the gravity of Brexit for Gibraltar’.

Describing Westminster as ‘isolationist’, he told the Olive Press he was extremely concerned for the future of the Rock.

Speaking after his sold-out Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival talk, the former Liberal Democrat leader said the UK had done enormous ‘self harm’ in voting to leave the EU. The firm Remain supporter said: “I don’t think politicians in Westminster appreciate the gravity of Brexit for Britain, but I think in particular they don’t appreciate the gravity for Gibraltar.”

The firm Remain supporter added: “I fear there is a huge spirit of isolationism in Britain led by people who should know better.

“For most ordinary politicians I don’t think Gibraltar is much concern. Which is a shocking thing because Gibraltar has TOUGH TALKER: served our nation so well and re- Ashdown mains one of the crucial, vital strategic points in the world.

“You can’t let Gibraltar suffer without everything we stand for suffering.”

He added: “I think Brexit was the most telling example in modern history of a nation doing self harm to itself. I bitterly regret it.

“We are a divided nation. The prime minister’s first steps should be to bring the nation together.

“I fear what she has done may have more of a tendency to divide it. I don’t believe a hard Brexit is in Britain’s interest.

“If we must Brexit, do so maintaining a position as close to Europe as possible.”

The veteran politician, who has just released a book on spies during World War II, sparked fury last month when he compared Conservative Leave supporters to Nazi paramilitaries, labelling them ‘Tory Brexit brownshirts’.

Prime Minister Theresa May has indicated she will pursue a ‘hard’ Brexit, with no compromise on freedom of movement in return for access to the EU single market.

Ashdown said he ‘wanted May to succeed’, but expressed reservations about her opening negotiating stance.

dle investors’, with Jolly at its head.

The Olive Press assisted Marchant in his investigations, which the Mail on Sunday also ran this weekend.

It’s not the first time Jolly and other PW directors have been suspected of financial skulduggery.

In 2013, Jolly’s Gibraltar-registered Green Planet Investment Limited was wound up by the UK High Court after 300 investors lost life savings totalling £14million buying non-existent Brazilian properties.

Two years ago, former PW compliance director, Minette Compson, was banned by the

Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC) after an investigation into a £7.7 million investment fraud.

The GFSC described Compson as ‘not a fit and proper person to carry out the aforesaid functions’.

In the latest project, PW was offering annual returns of up to 12%, profits it claims are possible because it achieves 50% returns on payday loans to high-risk American borrowers.

Members of Jolly’s team are said to include Andrew Sweeney, Mark Munnelly, Simon McGarrigle, Martin Sampson and Robbie Roche, with many of them based in Marbella.

When Marchant put it to Jolly that he was in charge of PW he denied all accusations.

Jolly said: “I do know the company, and have had dealings with them...I hadn’t heard of them until about three years ago, possibly a little longer. I can assure you I’m not a shareholder, director or employee, although I have invested some cash, as have a few of my associates.”

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The weather outside is frightful BUT JOYOUS IN gRANADA

COMING SOON

October 26th - November 8th 2016

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Wind up

THE decision to hand Spain a €165m deal to build steel parts for Britain’s taxpayer-funded wind farms has sparked outrage.

Scottish Power, which is owned

by Spanish giant Iberdrola, has awarded the lucrative building contracts to a shipyard in Spain which is owned by the Spanish government.

Critics say it flies in the face of the UK Government’s strategy to support British jobs and the decision has caused a crisis at Newcastle-based OGN Group which had hoped to secure the investment and 2,000 jobs.

Mary Glindon, Labour MP for North Tyneside, said: “If the Government wants to ensure work comes to British workers they have to take a stronger line with these companies.

“Why should the British taxpayer give money to support companies unless there's some material benefit to the UK? It's not international aid, it's business.”

Scottish Power will receive millions in taxpayer-funded subsidies over the 15-year project, which will see the creation of a wind farm in East Anglia.

4x4 horror show

A GROWING 4X4-cumbullfighting craze has been slammed by animal rights group PACMA. The Spanish political party released footage of 4X4 drivers chasing after bulls before spearing them out of the windows of the car.

In one clip a bull is shot in the head after being taunted by a number of drivers who surround the animal.

Known as 'encierros' – meaning 'enclosings' – PACMA has said that the pop-up events violate bullfighting regulations.

According to regulations by the local government of Castilla-La Mancha – where some of the events are believed to have been filmed – participants are prohibited from being "intoxicated" or "carrying bottles, glasses or any instrument with can cause ill-treatment of cattle".

"We need to show people that the Toro de la Vega is not the only sickening bull chase in this country," PACMA president Silvia Barquero said.

"There are more than a hundred of these cruel car rallies in Guadalajara province alone.

"Yet those taking part are blatantly breaking the law."

She added: "Many are drinking – but under Spanish law people are not allowed to take part in an encierro if they are under the affects of alcohol or drugs.

"The civil guard are normally present but don't appear to enforce the law."

ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 49.03% Same week last year: 60.12% Same week in 2006: 51.76%

BRRR!: Snow falling in Sierra Nevada

IT’S official: winter is coming!

As the Costa del Sol and large parts of Spain were battered by rain for the best part of 48 hours, snow fell on the peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The region’s skiers will no doubt be rubbing their hands together as between two and 10cm of snow fell on the Granada mountain in one night.

It comes after a light dusting of snow signalled the season’s first snowfall on September 21.

Unusually early for this time of year, heavy snow is not normally not seen on the popular ski resort until early November.

The Sierra Nevada usually opens its ski slopes from late November until May.

Going green

Spain on track for full reliance on renewable energies A SPANISH energy boss has vowed that Spain will become 100 per cent reliant on renewable energy.

Acciona director Miguel Ezpeleta said there is currently enough wind energy being generated to power 29 million Spanish homes every day.

He said: “The important thing is to predict and forecast what is going to happen.

“I think people are going to tell me we’re crazy but I’m pretty sure we’ll arrive at 100 per cent one day for sure.”

The firm said a new nighttime record was set in November last year when wind energy provided 70 per cent of the country’s energy.

Spain, which has no oil or natural gas deposits, is attempting to become energy independent.

Some 17.4% of its energy currently comes from renewables, just a few per cent below its A GREEN group has 20% target by 2020, set by the slammed Algeciras EU. Town Hall for failing to Although great for the environdeal with fly-tipping in ment, critics have said the move the area. to renewables has made energy Verdemar-Ecologismore expensive, with some saytas en Acción has deing the price has increased by nounced the town hall 60% over the last ten years. for environmental Acciona said this can be tackled crimes. with proper management.

The specific comThe director for the Asia-Paplaint relates to a riscific region, Javier Montes, ing amount of rubbish said: “Properly managed, there dumped outside the should be no issues with that.

Algeciras football staThe examples in Europe show dium. that.

“We do not understand “The one thing going in Spain’s how you can reach favour is that the electrical systhese extremes of intem has been built with the goal civility," a Verdemar of making it very reliable and spokesperson said. able to take very heavy knocks “We expect an immediwith extreme weather events or ate and comprehensive major technical failures.” clean up of the area.

Meanwhile the UK is set to fail “After which, we deto achieve its target of 15% remand more frequent newables by 2020, which will monitoring of popular undermine its reputation for fly-tipping areas.” climate change leadership.

Clean it up!

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Axarq u iaOctober 26th - November 2016 Oct 26th8th - Nov 8th

Muddy mess

Residents left homeless after landslide leaves their homes unsafe THE collapse of a building site caused by a landslide in VelezMalaga has forced dozens of residents onto the streets.

Some neighbours have spent at least five days away after the first two floors of scaffolding and construction of an adjacent building collapsed.

The residents have only been allowed to access their homes under supervision and were forced to remove essential belongings.

A dozen of them are being housed in a hotel in Torre del Mar and the rest have been staying with relatives.

Around a dozen SUSPECTED serial fruit thieves have businesses surbeen arrested by the Policia Nacional in rounding the Velez-Malaga. works have also Police were alerted to a group of men been closed, inwho appeared to be snatching mangos cluding a travel from a farm on the road between Cajiz agency, sports and Almayate. shop and sevUpon arrival, the cops found a van coneral medical taining six sacks with some 240 kilos of specialists. fruit, before spotting three men, aged Residents are between 27 and 36, picking fruit and hoping to return carrying it through a hole in the fence. to their homes The group are thought to be behind at this week as auleast five thefts from fruit farms in the thorities attempt Axarquia region. to stabilise the Police have been forced to step up surground to avoid veillance in the area after the recent any risk. spike in agricultural theft, with more ofFortunately no ficers and helicopters patrolling the area one was injured to deter would-be fruit thieves. in the incident.

Bitter bandits

Paws for thought THE deputy mayor of Torre del Mar has publicly defended the town’s new dog beach.

Speaking at a press conference, Jesus Perez Atencia confirmed the sandy spot’s legality, insisting it has been authorised by the Junta and complies with all health and environmental standards.

Atencia added that the beach, which is cleaned daily, is likely to attract more tourists who like to visit the area with their canine friends.

Havin’ a laugh SOME 4,000 canisters of laughing gas have been impounded following a raid in Nerja.

The bust was carried out at a fair, with 11 people being identified as selling the prohibited drug.

Cans are used to fill up balloons with the gas - nitrous oxide - before punters inhale it, causing a light-headed sensation.

The Nerja haul was the largest ever recorded in Malaga.

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Watch out!

THE photograph of Costa del Sol conman Henk Brinkman that appeared in the Olive Press is actually a little bit outdated (On the brink, Issue 248). I have seen him around recently and he is now a lot slimmer and wears reading glasses at all times. It is great that the Olive Press is exposing him for what he is. People need to know to watch out for this guy: my dad was also ripped off by him. He will not hesitate to get into your web as a ‘friend’ first before he pounces. He gains your trust first and then he will rip you off when you least suspect it. He is a very clever conman.

Anonymous, Marbella

End of an era

LE T T E R S

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Celebration or shame?

Have a day off

2

muslim preachers were arrested in Ibiza for promoting and supporting terrorist group ISIS.

WHILE I enjoy a bank holiday as much as the next person, the premise behind Hispanic Day seems a little archaic (Exploring Columbus, Issue 250). The Spanish seem obsessed with celebrating totalistic ideologies of conformity and hierarchical control of people’s lives through administrative apparatus. To me it all seems done in the name of glorious historical traditions that are annually dredged up to distract people from current political failings.

4.8% is how much the amount of people at risk of po-

verty or social exclusion in Spain has increased by since the 2008 financial crash.

Chas Daily, Malaga

Past pain SPAIN may enjoy Hispanic Day, but it is not a day that the indigenous peoples of Central and South America will be celebrating, nor any other of the lands conquered by white Europeans such as Australia, New Zealand or the whole of North America. Europeans as a whole should hold a day of shame and regret, but a cowardly fear to turn and confront the past, means a day of ironic ‘celebration’ takes place instead.

For the denialists – we are our ancestors, literally and without them we simply don’t exist.

It’s in the past

I FOUND the Columbus article in last week’s paper very informative and enlightening.

I WAS delighted to read the article I have also been enjoying the debate on the legitimacy

by Antonio Lorca foretelling the end of the celebration online. While I agree that we must of bullfighting in Spain (Bullfighting feel some responsibility for our ancestors colonialism, being killed off by lazy matador maI think it is impossible for current generations to shoulfia, issue 249). Apart from the fact it der the blame for all the wrongs in the world. Maybe we is a cruel, barbaric ‘sport’, his report should not celebrate Hispanic Day, but to hold a ‘day of tells us that the top bullfighters pick shame’ is extreme. only the tamest and easiest bulls to fight. Put them in an arena with a Stuart Crawford, Mario Lopez, pedigree bull with NO initial injuries Marbella Madrid and then see how brave they are!

I am aware that some regions of Spain have already banned bullstricking nearly a decade on!

250). From my experience, Stan is a fighting, and long for the day when in Spain, online). As described by Louise Thornhill, semi-literate parasite. His chickens the Olive Press the hotel is an absoit becomes a countrywide ban.

London will come home to roost as potenlute dump and it compeletly ruined tial advertisers and suppliers will be Gina Watson, my holiday. We had a horrible expeaware of the way he does business.

Orgiva rience and a week we will never forget (for all the wrong reasons). I can IT comes as no surprise to see Stan Leroy, confirm that the sickness bug which Israel kicked out of his office for Estepona struck guests down in 2007 is still non-payments (Booted out! Issue

Same old Stan

Hotel horror

I WISH I knew about The Beach Club Hotel in Torremolinos before I stayed there (Inside the worst hotel

Number crunching

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

10.3%

more people travelled to and from Spanish airports this September than last, rising to 23.2 million.

39.1%

of 25-34 year olds in Spain are still living with their parents.

40% less vegetables are expected to be harvested in Murcia

by January 2017 due to this year’s droughts

1,100,000

Spaniards are owners of guns and firearms, a new study has revealed.

1,000,000,000

euros of a European banking bailout from 2012 is to be repaid

by Spain.

Sofa’s now in Stock up to 70% off RRP Visit Now while stock lasts!!

-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views

SOCIALMEDIA

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Getting BE ‘APPY! spiritual

October 26th - November 8th 2016

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Ancient doodles MORE than 50 cave drawings thought to be around 14,500 years old have been found in Spain.

The etchings feature horses, bison, goats and, for the first time, at least two lions.

They were found in the northern Spanish town of Lekeitio in the Bi-

THE Mind, Body & Spirit Festival is coming to Marbella.

Visitors can enjoy talks and demonstrations from Download our app now and therapists, tarot readers begin enjoying the best Spanish and healers when more Fights and than 50 stands news on the go.will pop up at the H10 Andalu- protests erupt cia Plaza Hotel in Puerto as controversial Banus on October 29 and Franco exhibition 30.

Guests include Bev Mann unveiled and Joyce Vemon who will be channeling messag- A POLARISING art exhibition es from loved ones who featuring a decapitated Franco on a horse has been met with have passed, Jennifer The and Olive Pressprotests and egging.

Mackenzie and Molly Ann The temporary show, called Fairley from the school of Franco, Victory, Republic, Imfor news Spain! psychicTOP studies, who in will punity and Urban Space fea- While one features a headless be giving a talk on psychic tures sculptures of the Spanish Franco on a horse, another abilities. dictator dotted around Barce- pays homage to the victory of Beauty treatments, ho- lona’s streets. his troops in the Spanish Civil listic body massages and the chance to have your aura photographed will all be on offer from 11am to 8pm each day.

SPAIN’S Got Talent descended upon Estepona last week when An entrance fee of €10 professional judges gave their verdicts on 12 different acts at entitles you to all talks the L’Oriental restaurant in Benarama. and demonstrations.

Guest were treated to singers, dancers, magicians and more

zkaia region.

Regional official Unai Rementeria described the discovery as a ‘treasure of mankind’ and ‘of exceptional technical quality and visibility.’

They have been described by experts as the ‘most spectacular’ in the Iberian peninsula.

No to Franco

Night of talent

For more info Tel. 670628468 www. mindbodyspiritmarbella.com

during a talent-packed evening.

Sponsored by The Spanish Estate Agent, cash prizes were awarded to first, second and third place, with the dinner and show raising hundreds for children’s charity Niños Necesitados.

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alaga, November 8

2FLY Group are holding an information seminar at their Malaga training centre for those interested in becoming an airline pilot, includes a simulator flight.

War, but both were pelted with eggs within minutes of going on display.

Catalan separatists shouted ‘no fascists on our streets’ while a Franco victims’ group held a silent protest.

Deputy mayor of the city Gerardo Pisarello said the aim of the works was to ‘denounce the crimes of Francoism and impunity, even in democracy.’

But Catalan nationalists said the exhibition trivialises the crimes of the late Spanish dictator.

The exhibition will remain until January.

DIVISIVE: Statue (above) and protesters (below)

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stepona, until November 17

A COLLECTION of sculptures by artist Luis Cruz Suero are to be on display at the New Longman’s Bookshop for a month. For more info visit www.facebook.com/ NewLongmans

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alaga, until January 29

AN exhibition of portraits by John Malkovich and Sandro Miller will be on display in La Termica

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16

October 26th - November 8th 2016

The top 10 lesser known things to see and do in Malaga city

M

ALAGA is fast putting itself on the map as the cultural hotspot in Europe.

Investing €10 million into its museums last year alone, it is becoming the go to place for a cultural city break. While the main art museums, including the Picasso and Thyssen, will make an essential part of your list of places to see, there are other hidden gems to look out for too.

Combine them with gardens, haunted houses and taverns, and you have got a pretty exciting itinerary.

October 26th - November 8th

More in Malaga 2

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Contemporary art museum

Located in the so-called ‘Soho’ of Malaga, this cool and exciting modern art museum is housed in a former wholesale market building.

Since being opened by Infanta Cristina in 2003, it has established itself as one of the most important contemporary art spaces in Europe. It holds a permanent 400-piece collection of works loaned by private collectors - including 1960s legends Lichtenstein and Frank Stella - while holding regular exhibitions dedicated to up-and-coming Spanish artists.

Free demonstrations talks 11am to 8pm Over 50 Exhibitor’s & 18 Inspirational Talks & Demonstrations

Ctra. de Cádiz 174

(Opposite Puerto Banús. Behind the Casino)

Tel: (34) 670 628 468 www.mindbodyspiritmarbella.com

Atarazanas market

AMAZING – WE GOT SO MANY CLIENTS! RE the ar ticle and adver t in the O live Press, I just wanted to say SO MANY C LI ENTS c ame b ec ause of it and sp oke ab out it, so, in shor t, it was AMA ZI NG and I am really Gigi Taylor, grateful for your Gigi’s restaurant time and interest in Sotogrande my venture.

This recently refurbished market is one of Malaga’s hidden gems. Blending 14th century Moorish architecture with 19th century industrial design, its new stained glass window can only be described as magnificent, shining a rainbow of colours onto happy shoppers who are buying everything from fish and meat to cheese and fruit and veg. Its fish section is renowned for its variety and boasts king crabs and any other type of crustaceon, while nearby tapas bars offer the perfect place for lunch.

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La Termica

This cultural epicentre is described as a space where local residents and visitors can learn and exchange creative ideas.

The 13,000m2 centre holds several exhibitions at any one time and on a frequent basis, always offering something new.

It also offers workshops, lectures and concerts.

These include the ‘coworkers programme’, which gives up-and-coming entrepreneurs the chance to create and display their work to the public.

Botanical Gardens An oasis of peace in the city, this green space is the perfect place to take a breather.

Its lush vegetation, winding paths and ornate

fountains make a tranquil paradise to rival London’s Kew Gardens. It also has one of the most magnificent tropical and subtropical gardens in Europe.

la cultura

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Graffiti/wall art

If you needed any more convincing that Malaga has become a cultural hotspot, look no further than its walls adorned with graffiti and art.

It seems Banksy hasn’t been lost on Malagueños as thought-provoking pieces stop passersby and inspire many a conversation.

Most of the amateur works can be seen in the city’s Soho district, among cafes, galleries and art spaces, making it a regular feature on photo apps like Instagram.

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This Malagueño haunt is the oldest tavern in Malaga and dates back to 1840, and was frequented by none other than local hero Picasso.

And it’s no surprise, its peeling custardcoloured paintwork and walls adorned with black-andwhite photography reveal this bar’s vintage ties with the city.

It’s a must see if not for the history and character, then it’s vast range of wines, from dry sherries to the romantically names lagrima tranañejo, meaning very old tear.

10 Cortijo Jurado

Car museum

Motorhead or not, it’s hard not to appreciate the stunning cars on show at Malaga’s automobile museum.

Opened in 2010, the €9 million project boasts some 90 classic cars, from vintage Mercedes to Rolls Royce.

The museum, based in an old tobacco factory, comes complete with displays of haute couture fashion and hats.

9 The Russian Museum

This 2,300m2 space in Malaga’s old tobacco factory houses 100 pieces dating from the 15th to 20th centuries.

The works come from the Russian State Museum’s collection in St Petersburg and cover every period of Russian art.

It is the first museum ever to house paintings from the museum in Russia.

17 17

Casa de la Guardia

La casa invisible

This abandoned mansion on the outskirts of the city has been a mecca for supernatural investigators for years.

Ghosthunters flock to the early 19th century house that was owned by the then influential Heredia family.

Rumours circulated at the time about the libertine and sadistic happenings within its walls, with tales of conspiracies, rape and murder spreading like wildfire and giving the house an evil reputation. It is said the bodies of their young victims were buried within the property and still move around at night, explore with caution!

A tough spot to find but well worth the search is this stunning and hidden courtyard.

Its mildly dilapidated buildings paired with shady palms, a goldfish pond and colourful murals only add to the spot’s character.

As well as a bar, there is always a concert or performance happening here, from African percussion to flamenco, plus classes like yoga and tango.

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OLIVE PRESS – 105mm x 256mm – Colour

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Issue 251

October 26th - November 8th 2016

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errania de Ronda

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, p e h e g i d h r n e i v i a t R un o m

Rob Horgan goes native in the Serrania de Ronda and discovers the backroad gems of the Genal Valley

T

HERE are few places in the world where you can drink beer with an army general … and even fewer where the general stands all the rounds!

Ronda, however, is one of those places.

Celebrating a recent promotion with friends in quintessential bar El Porton, an olé away from Spain’s oldest bullring - Spanish Legionnaire Carlos Velo is eager to include me in the party.

After introducing me to the town’s signature tapa - jamon and quail eggs - Carlos (above) regales me with tales from tours to Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia before explaining why Ronda is the ‘best place in the world’.

“I have been all over the world and seen many things,” he says, taking a swig from his cana and pushing his glasses back into his face. “But Ronda is the best place I have ever been to.”

Originally from Madrid, Carlos moved to Ronda some 35 years ago when he joined the Spanish Legion, which has one of its two national bases here, counting on around 800 legionnaires at present.

“The quality of life in Ronda is like nowhere else in Spain. I can live like a gentleman here, in Madrid I would just be like everyone else.

“Everything is affordable, if you like you can spend the day going from tapas bar to tapas bar and you will still have change in your pocket.

“And the scenery is breathtaking,” he adds. “The walks

SOARING HIGH: The view up to the city from the Tajo gorge and (top) a typical town scene

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE ON NEW AND OLD BUILDS ON THE SERRANIA Urb. Los Pinos, Manzana B, Parcela 9 Ronda email: cvazquez1@hotmail.es

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

errania de Ronda

City of dreams

restaurant | lunch and dinner

From previous page

CRAFTY: Ronda ham cutter expertly slices his jamon and (below) chestnut sellers are just part of the area’s typical rural mix

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around Ronda are spectacular. I used to walk for hours on end around the Serrania. Nowadays I leave the walking to the youngsters.”

Visitors are drawn to Ronda for its iconic El Tajo gorge alone, a fearsome crevasse plummeting 120 metres down to the river from the Puente Nuevo bridge above.

This 18th century causeway, which took 42 years to build, connects the sleepy historic Old Town to the bustling new town which is always jam- DREAM WEAVER: Ronda artisan packed with scores of tourists skipping between bars, restaurants and top retailers such as Frik- happy to see the influx of tourists, as British exing and Zara. pats Elaine and Malcolm Moore tell me.

Once described as a ‘cono moment’ by celebrity “Ronda is one of these places where everyone is chef Jean Christophe, the gorge has had more welcome,” says Londoner Elaine. pairs of eyes on it this year than ever before after “We moved here 16 years ago after nearly 20 a bumper tourist season. years on the coast and we have loved every day.

One hotel manager, Jaime Coro“In fact, we wish we had moved nel, tells me that he has been here sooner.” full every day this summer.

She adds: “It is great to see so “Summer no longer lasts for July many people here at the moRonda retains the and August, this year the summent. It has given the bars a charm that enticed mer season has been going since new lease of life. the likes of Ernest April and it is still going now,” he “We go out to live music events Hemingway and says. “Compared to last year we three or four nights a week, the Orson Welles are up 11% and that goes for all town is absolutely buzzing.” the hotels and restaurants here.

But despite the tourist invaRonda is booming.” sion, Ronda retains the charm It’s the same story at the stunthat enticed the likes of Ernest ning Al Lago hotel and restaurant in nearby Za- Hemingway and Orson Welles and inspired a hara de la Sierra where owner Stef tells me that whole library of literary figures, including James he has been overrun with bookings this year.

Joyce and German poet Rainer Maria Rilke.

Rightly named one of the top outdoor terraces by More recently, US first lady Michelle Obama and Dining Secrets of Andalucia, Al Lago is still bus- ex-Prime Minister David Cameron have toured tling with guests in October as the rush to Ronda Ronda’s sights. spills out beyond its historic centre.

Even Bill Gates came on a secret visit two years But it is not just the hospitality industry that is ago and Madonna infamously shot her music

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

VIEWS: (From top) Described as the ‘coño moment’ by chef Jean Christophe Novelli; the old mosque is now a cathedral; boss of Friking and horse and carriage

video, Take a Bow, in the bullring on a windy, wet November day in 1994.

The plaza de toros is on everyone’s agenda - a distinguished classical building that was home to Spain’s first corrida some 231 years ago.

Outside, a statue of local lad Pedro Romero (born 1754) stands in welcome.

Dubbed the ‘father of the corrida’ for introducing bullfighting on foot and the matador’s balletic style, he killed over 5,000 bulls and passed his skills down the line. The Romero family has provided Spain with over three generations of bullfighters.

September’s annual Goyesca bullfight in 18th century costume pays tribute to Romero and Goya’s matador paintings and is famous the world over. During the festival the bullfighters are led out into the street on the shoulders of their cuadrillas (assistants).

The bullring and its museum showcasing etchings by Goya is one of Ronda’s top 30 sights.

The cathedral-sized 15th century Santa Maria church is another, and you’ll never tire of wandering Ronda’s sepia-toned cobbled streets to discover them.

And when you’ve ticked those boxes, there are three natural parks to explore. Ronda is encircled by the Sierra de las Nieves, the Sierra de Grazalema and the Alcornocales, where you can indulge in rugged outdoor pursuits like hiking, horse riding or a 4x4 romp.

The A-397 up from San Pedro is the quickest route to the City of Dreams, as writer Rilke once christened Ronda. It snakes through rugged ‘cowboy country’ to the vertiginous mountain town which pierces the clouds at 750 metres above sea level – giddy limits that have been an inspiration to so many.

En route, a trip to Juzcar - the white village that was famously painted blue for The Smurfs movie - is well worth a visit.

But to truly appreciate the Serrania de Ronda, a trip up the old road through the Genal Valley is well worth the extra time for the views, as Harley Davidson owners will testify. This is their favourite mountain track for a burn up so keep an eye on those rear-view mirrors.

Every curve and bend reveals another cluster of white-washed houses stacked on top of each other like Lego cubes. Surrounded by verdant green oak trees and glimpses of bright orange cliff face, a patriotic Irishman might say the tricolour had been plastered on the side of Andalucia’s mountains.

My first stop along ‘Ronda’s backstreet’ - and everyone else’s too, as it turns out - is the mountaintop village of Jubrique. On a sunny Sunday afternoon in autumn I am joined by lycra-clad cyclists, bikers in leather and daytrippers by the

Syrian prince Abu’l-Fida (1273-1331) “Elegant and lofty city in which the clouds serve as a turban and its towers as a sword belt”

Trailblazers

The word on the street from some of Ronda’s famous visitors…

Irish novelist and poet James Joyce (1882-1941) “Ronda with the old windows of the houses, the eyes which spy out hidden behind the latticework so that their lover might kiss the iron bars.”

German poet Rainer Maria Rilke (1875-1926) “The spectacle of this city, sitting on the bulk of two rocks rent asunder by a pickaxe and separated by the narrow, deep gorge of the river, corresponds very well to the image of that city revealed in dreams.”

Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986) “It is here, in Ronda, in the delicate penumbra of blindness, a concave silence of patios, leisure of the jasmine and the light sound of water, which summoned up memories of deserts.”

MATADOR: Ronda torero and (right) horse riding coachload as I tuck into my Spanish fish and chips - gambas pil pil and patatas bravas.

Brothers Jaime and Juanmi from Algatocin tell me they have been cycling through the valley almost every weekend for 25 years.

“The valley is so beautiful,” Juanmi says. “The cycle from Ronda to the coast is for riders who appreciate the beauty of the valley.

“Traffic on the road is so quiet that it is ideal for us.”

Five minutes from Jubrique where the valley

American author Orson Welles (1915-1985) “A man is not from where he is born, but where he chooses to die.”

meets the Genal river, a scenic walk winding past abandoned mills is accessible from the Venta San Juan, a former Guardia Civil checkpoint during the early Franco era.

Genalguacil takes the prize for most picturesque village in the Genal. Surrounded by pines and oaks, its impressive church proudl y overlooks the valley while an open air art gallery of curious sculptures and murals lining the white-washed streets reveals a pueblo that has gone completely art-mad.

During the first two weeks in August, artists get creative for the festival of Los Encuentros de Arte del Valle del Genal, and their prizewinning works of art go on permanent public display throughout the town.

The best valley views are reserved for the village of Algatocin which offers a 180 degree panorama.

Closer to Ronda, the Roman Castillo de Benadalid - now a cemetery - offers a glimpse into the region’s rich past.

Let the tourists take the high road. They might be in Ronda before you but the back road will show you the real beauty of the Serrania de Ronda.

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

Secret Serrania

Oct26th - Nov 8th 2016

From bandit hideouts to Roman wine cellars, there is so much to see and do close to Ronda, writes Jon Clarke

R

ONDA is surrounded by two natural parks, the Sierra de las Nieves and the Sierra de Grazalema, not to mention its very own breathtaking Serrania.

These surrounding hills are creaking with won-

Villa Ignacia NATURE & HOLIDAY

derful walks and pretty towns and villages to visit, all easy to reach in the car and most with their own excellent places to stay and eat.

Here are the Olive Press top ten picks for a trip out of Ronda.

The Serrania was once a major stronghold for bandoleros (bandits) and the tiny towns of Benaojan and Montejaque were famously where many holed up. But there is much more, such as the Cueva de la Pileta, near Montejaque (right), which has the oldest cave paintings in Spain, while Benaojan is the centre of the ham and sausage industry. There is also a fabulous walk from Benaojan Estacion down the river to Jimera de Libar, from where you can get the train back. At each end is a great lunch spot, with hotel Molino del Santo (www. molinodelsanto.com) the obvious pick.

Prehistory kept alive

It is now believed that Jimena may have once housed one of Europe’s most important Roman fortresses. While excavations currently go on, the existing castle itself is a real eye opener with amazing views and features. The town is also a gem and, best of all, has a great place to stay in Hostal El Anon (www.hos-

talanon.com)

Tel: (0034) 654 110 368 Paraje Huerta de Maria Nieves, Arriate

While it’s about as stunning as any of the pretty villages around Ronda, there is one big difference with Juzcar… it’s blue. This is thanks to the Smurf movie that in 2011 decided to use the tiny village as the mythical base of the tiny creatures. It has been used a handful of times since and voted to stay blue some years back. But apart from the many attractions for kids, based around the movie, it is also the perfect place for a walk and to see Griffon vultures and crag martins.

Bandit territory

Castle hop to Jimena

On the riverside of Arroyo de la Ventilla lays this beautiful bed and breakfast. It has 4 bedrooms with bathrooms, 2 duplex apartments and a swimming pool.

The view and surroundings will take your breath away. If that is not enough you can always enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, hiking and cycling.

Preaching the blues

Roman Ronda A 15-minute drive from Ronda takes you to the ancient city of Acinipo, where the Romans built their ancient town. The highest hill for miles around, it still has much evidence of their skills with a large part of its amphitheatre intact and a lot more to look at, not to mention the views. The visitor centre is only open for the morning, but one can always climb up to the amphitheatre out of hours.

For anyone wanting an idea of what life was like in Ronda 5,000 years ago, head to Algaba, a short drive out of Ronda. This wonderful estate has recreated a prehistoric village showing clearly how the area’s forefathers lived, how they ground their bread, decorated their homes and what they did with their dead. There are also lots of rare breeds of cows and goats and you can even stay in the nearby finca if you fancy it.

Visit www.algabaronda. com

Cavemen colony The historic Roman town of Setenil de las Bodegas is a real eye opener and amazing for photography. Nestled in the rolling landscape, 20 minutes out of Ronda, it was built around a series of caves, which served to keep the wines of the Romans cool in summer, hence its name. It is best to leave your car outside the town, wander up to the old fortress before heading down to the famous overhanging cave for a fine tapas lunch.

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Glorious Gaucin It’s not hard to see why Gaucin is called the Balcony of the Serrania. Perched on a hilly outcrop, surrounding by stunning mountain scenery, the views across Gaucin stretch forever, on a clear morning well into north Africa. A town popular with expats, due to its easy access to the Costa del Sol, this is where the likes of Fatboy Slim, the Sainsbury family and even Lady Diana are said to have holidayed. Artistic and creative, you can easily spend a day poking around its charming corners

Border patrol Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema are two of the most evocative towns around Ronda. While just across the border in Cadiz, both are easily reached and set in spectacular scenery.

Zahara has a towering castle above it and a superb lake as well as a great restaurant Al Lago (www.al-lago.es), while Grazalema (a beautifully conserved gem) was once the centre of the wool industry and you can still buy delightful rugs and bedspreads.

The secret valley

Fanning its fortune An hour walk out of Ronda will take you to one of the most stunning natural sites, the Cueva de Abanico (or the Fan Cave). Near here celebrated flamenco star Estrella Morente, and husband bullfighter Javier Conde are about to build a hotel and it is no surprise why. This is one of the most beautiful walks imaginable, with bits of Roman road to discover, ruined towers and then the amazing cave and river at the end.

Most people spend their time in the famous Ronda Tajo, but few take a stroll up the fabulous historic valley walk above the charming village of Arriate, just ten minutes out of Ronda. Well signposted, the Arroyo de la Ventilla hike heads up into an almost tropical leafy gorge, perfect for hot sunny days being mostly in the shade. Kids will love it in summer with the river forged creating a natural splash pool, with swings and an organic picnic spot.

On top of the World!

Arriadh Hotel is situated in the beautiful ‘Serranía de Ronda’, just a 10 minute drive from Ronda’s city centre. The village Arriate, undiscovered by mass tourism, is within walking distance and offers a wide variety of restaurants and tapas bars.

Arriadh Hotel is the perfect ‘home away from home’ to rediscover Ronda and the area.

Or just to relax and take in the breath taking views and sunsets from one of the terraces, the garden, the swimming pool or your own balcony. If you want to stay in, don’t worry. Your hosts John and Wilbert always have a variety of tapas available and on request they will prepare a lovely dinner.

Tel.: +34 952 11 43 70

Arriadh Hotel, Los Cañalillos, Ronda, Andalucia.

www.arriadhhotel.com

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AL LAGO CHRISTMAS

Fine dining and tranquility in our white village…

Enjoy a 3 night mountain escape this year for Christmas Our festive offer includes:

3 nights bed and breakfast in one of our lake facing rooms Spiced wine, warm mince pies and a gift to welcome you upon arrival Christmas Eve 3 course dinner for 2 Christmas Day Lunch for 2 Valid, Friday 23rd until Monday 26th December 215.00 euros per person includes 10% taxes

We will also be open for New Year’s eve weekend Please contact us on info@al-lago.es or call 662 052 553 www.al-lago.es

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GorgeTake a hike beneath one of Andalucia’s most dramatic landmarks with local walking expert Guy Hunter-Watts

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HIS short circuit gets you up close to the dramatic cliffs and spectacular gorge and bridge whose beauty have made Ronda one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

After leaving the town along a sandy footpath close to the cliff’s edge, you follow a winding country lane across the bowl of the valley past numerous small holdings and country houses before climbing steeply back up to Ronda’s historical centre via a cobbled footpath hugging the gorge’s spectacular eastern flank. From here the views of El Puente Nuevo are simply mesEXPERT: Guy with hiking partner merising.

The route

GLORIOUS: Ronda’s stunning bridge over a gorge

The walk begins in front of the Parador on the western side of the Puente Nuevo.

With your back to the Parador turn left and leave the square along Calle José Aparicio. At the end of the street turn left again. Passing the bullring you reach busts of Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. Here, cut right along the Paseo de Orson Welles. Passing in front of Ronda’s ugly municipal theatre, you reach the small park of La Alameda.

Cut right along the park’s central walkway; then, reaching a statue of Pedro Romero, angle right and exit the park. Turn left then, passing right of the Iglesia de la Merced, continue along Calle Jerez. After passing Hotel Reina Victoria the street angles right past a statue of the Virgen del Rocío, then once more left, before reaching a roundabout. Here keep left, sticking close to the cliff edge. After 200m, an-

Orson and Or

Orson Welles was a frequent visitor to Ronda during the late 50s and early 60s, at a time when he struck up a

lasting friend bullfighter Ant Two years aft Welle’s ashe

gle left away from the road along a dirt track, following a sign for Bodega Descalzos Viejos.

Running close to a wall topped by a fence, the surface of the track changes to tarmac as it leads past the entrance to Descalzos Viejos.

Maintain on your same course along a sandy track which, passing a green gate, narrows to become a footpath that runs gently downhill, close to the edge of the cliff and parallel to a stone wall. Angling right, the footpath drops

Gateway to his

It´s been a key Andalucian city since the time of the Roman Al Andaluz, Ronda was a key stopping off place for travellers you feel like you have stepped back in time in the cobbled st Around every corner you will find historic palaces and townh own original entrances. And some are guarded by dangerous others lead to emblematic squares (right)

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-ous

The nitty gritty

t point: In fron Start/finish r on the western of the Paradoente Nuevo side of the Pu edium Grade: Easy/M s Distance: 6km35mins actual Time: 1hrs so allow 2hrs walking time 30mins

rdonez

dship with the tonio Ordonez. ter his death, es were scat-

tered at the Recreo de San Cayetano, a farm belonging to the Ordoñez family just to the north of Ronda.

down to meet with a tarmac road. Here turn left following a sign Ronda GR141, GR249.

Passing through a breach in the mountain (El Puerto de las Muelas, 35mins) the road bears left before descending towards the valley floor.

Reaching the gates of Hacienda Puerto de las Muelas, angle left following the sign Haza del Batán and follow a winding lane on past the gates of Haza del Batán where twin statues of Christ on the Cross and the Virgin are enclosed

story

ns and back in the days of s. It´s no wonder then that treets of Ronda old town. houses, each with their very s creatures (left), while

in a glass case.

Descending through groves of olive and walnut trees you reach a fork. Here, angle right.

Reaching gates marked 21 the lane veers once more right, then winds on downhill, closer now to Ronda’s majestic south-facing cliff face.

Crossing a bridge over the river Guadalevin, the road loops steeply upwards before descending to reach a junction with a cobbled track (1hr).

Turn right and climb up past a building marked ‘Molinos del Tajo’.

After passing twin signs for ‘Albergue Los Molinos’ the track reaches a second set of signs for ‘La Hoya del Tajo’, one depicting birds that can be seen in the gorge. Leave the track here and follow a narrow path that climbs steeply up the eastern side of the Ronda gorge before passing through a narrow opening in the wall that, in Moorish times, served as Ronda’s lower line of defence.

Beyond the gap you’re treated to a stunning view of the Puente Nuevo that spans the gorge. Angling right, head on up a path parallel to the wall, then cut left up a flight of steps and follow a path that zigzags up to Ronda’s historic quarter and the Plaza María Auxiliadora. Here, turn left and exit the square along Calle Tenorio. After passing Casa Don Bosco you reach another small square. Here, pass left of three wrought-iron benches to reach a junction and a ceramic mural (Ronda y Los Viajeros Románticos). Turning left and, crossing the Puente Nuevo, you return to the start point of the walk (1hr 35min).

Guy Hunter-Watts is the author of Walking in Andalucía and Coastal Walks of Andalucía. Newly revised, 2016 editions of both books are available from www.cicerone. co.uk Guy’s latest Cicerone guide The Mountains of Ronda and Grazalema will be published in 2017.

Calle Mariano Soubiron 5 Ronda ( Málaga) domusgestion@gmail.com

COUNTRY HOUSE NEAR RONDA – 295.000,00€ PLOT SIZE: 24.000m2 BUILD SIZE: 300 m2.

4 bedrooms and 2 bathroom. Terrace with beautiful views.

Water from well and good access. Garden and swimming pool.

PRETTY RENOVATED HOUSE – 83.000,00€ Two plants in the Historical Center.

Two large bedrooms one of them with dressing room, bathroom, bright lounge, kitchen, storage and a large terrace.

www.domusronda.com

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Ideal homes RONDA PROPERTIES is the creation of its owners Thorwald Bodensiek and Irene Cox-Ortiz, a husband and wife team previously based in the U.K. The Real Estate Agency was established in 2006 and specialises in inland property with an extensive portfolio of white village and country houses, equestrian fincas, vineyards, Spanish Cortijos, lifestyle and character properties, renovation projects and large farmhouses.

A forward thinking, contemporary Estate Agency, Ronda Properties takes pride in its personal service and professional practice with a track record of successful sales.

Our portfolio of clients include expats, Spanish, Scandinavians, central Europeans and overseas investors.

The natural setting of Ronda is quite stunning surrounded by the majestic mountain ranges of the Sierra de Grazalema, Sierra de Las Nieves and

the beautiful Genal Valley. It benefits from clean air, a quiet and traditional environment and offers a good standard of living with easy access to the Costa del Sol, main cities and International Airports Whether you are looking for a small village house, finca or a large country estate Thorwald and Irene offer an extensive knowledge of the local area and property market, and aim to meet your wishes on both a personal and a professional level.

Their aim is to make buying a property in rural Andalucia a pleasant experience and to help you find the right property at the right price. The web site features only a selection of the properties listed in our portfolio and we have a wide range of inland properties that could suit your criteria.

Spanish and English are spoken.

For more info call 952 18 7313 or visit www. rondaproperties.com

World wide web

DIGITAL marketing consultancy ArayoWeb may no longer have a head office, but it is going stronger than ever.

With clients based all over the country and abroad, British boss Dawn has found that having a remotely based team helps to respond better to clients from any parts of the globe.

“All our business is now done via video calls over Skype, instant messaging and chat, as well as the old fashioned email and phone of course,” she says. “We truly are in essence a digital business.”

She adds: “This year we have created the online store for one of the biggest leather fashion brands in Spain, Daviletto,who also manufacture bags and purses for famous global brands such as Guy Laroche, Peirre Cardin and Victorio & Lucchino.

“We are also marketing their business online and we are very excited to be working with this new client.”

After many years in the industry Dawn and her team know how to get results from a fully integrated digital approach will.

No longer just web designers, ArayoWeb is now a complete digital marketing consultancy which is set to become one of the most forward thinking agencies in the country.

For more info visit www.arayoweb.com

MAJESTIC: Ronda’s mountainous scenery is easy on the eye, if not the legs

Joe Duggan’s be-spoke trip into the heart of hilly Andalucia

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THIRD weetabix is a must if you’re planning to cycle to Ronda from base camp San Pedro de Alcantara.

The 48 km ascent to this mountain eyrie is a tour de force on a Tour de France scale but ‘vale la pena’, as they say here in Spain.

And with my cyclist’s antennae twitching over tales of Roman amphitheatres, gorge dwellings and underground cave systems hidden around Ronda, I wasn’t going to sit and spin the wheels on my 18-gear Rocinante.

Those embarking on the climb are offered spectacular views. Pedal past Los Arqueros Golf Club’s gilded gates and Zagaleta, home to the rich and famous. To your right, La Concha’s awe-inspiring peak points the way.

The A374 twists past thick green canopies of fir trees carpeting the landscape.

A ‘Welcome to the Serrania de Ronda’ sign greets me 22km up, as do warning signs for snow. I push on through and take a detour to Parauta, one of Andalucia’s famed white villages, guard-

Wheels and hills

ing the gateway to the majes- Jesus Rosado is a born-andtic Sierra de las Nieves. bred Ronda cycling legend A thin ribbon of road leads to who battled his way to Paris this tiny village in the valley, in the 1990 Tour de France built around the 16th cen- after honing his skills in his tury Iglesia de la Inmaculada hilly homeland. He opened Concepcion, cobbled streets his bike shop on Plaza del and steaming chestnut bra- Ahorro 22 years ago but he ziers adding to its charms. loves to recall the glory days.

It’s a sharp climb back to “It was like a dream. I was 23 the main years old; a road, but this year before I is the home was cycling in The fading sunlight competitions, straight.

The fadand suddenly deepens the ing sunlight I was cycling landscape’s burnt deepens the in the Tour ochres and vivid landscape’s de France emeralds burnt ochres with my idols; and vivid emMiguel Inderalds as I urain, Greg power on to Ronda, serenad- LeMond. It was an incredible ed by the gentle toll of cow experience,” he says. bells.

“This region’s unique cliRonda’s old town bustles mate certainly helped me with Friday evening revel- become a good cyclist.” lers, but I can’t linger for too Not even the angels are long over El Tajo’s swooping stirring as I leave heavsplendour. I’m meeting a enly Ronda next day at first man who knows a thing or light. I cycle towards Arriate, two about cycling. the countryside’s gold and

STEP aside San Miguel, catch a ride Cruzcampo, there’s a new brewery in town!

With its beers already stocked in thousands of bars around Spain, craft brewery Rondena is leading the way for artisan beers in Andalucia.

Set up in June 2015 by former Ronda car parts salesman Celedonio Arias, Rondena is going from strength-to-strength.

“Spaniards are really enjoying their craft beers now,” Celedonio explains. “I started this after watching videos on youtube.

There was a gap in the market for really well-made beers.”

He added: “I do everything from fermenting the beer to bottling the product, it has been a lot of hard work but it is paying off.”

Stocked in bars along the coast from Malaga to Cadiz, Rondena beers are also making an appearance in watering holes in Granada, Sevilla and in Barcelona.

The brewery makes three types of beer: a refreshing blonde which Celedonio recommends as a pre-prandial aperitivo; a full pale ale designed to be supped over

green parading its Saturday morning best.

Arriate’s emigrant monument recalls leaner times, but the town, which has grown in recent years to 4,000 residents, is now home to quality shops.

Its train station, built on one of Europe’s steepest track gradients, is part of Mr Henderson’s Railway, the 1890 brainchild of British engineer John Morrison and financier Sir Alexander Henderson.

It’s a punchy climb from here to Setenil de las Bodegas, burrowed into a gorge carved out by the River Trejo, its houses embedded into the rock like Hobbit homes.

After refuelling with café con leche and a thick slab of pan con tomate on Calle de las Cuevas, the sinuous climb out of Setenil gives way to a flat road lined with olive trees leading to the Roman ruins of Acinipo.

The 2,000-capacity Roman amphitheatre, completed

Ale ‘n’ arty food; and a chocolatey stout that’s the perfect after-dinner drink (and my personal favourite).

And Celedonio means the business.

As well as continuing to expand his brewery he wants to open a bar at his headquarters to serve up his beers for locals to enjoy.

Gift sets are also available and make the perfect birthday or Christmas present.

For more info visit www.cervezasderonda.com or call 648 743 083 AT WORK: Boss Celedonio

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PEDAL TO THE METAL: Joe on way to Parauta, and (left) Tour de France local hero Jesus Rosado

circa 200 AD, crowns the escarpment, offering stunning views.

From here, black asphalt, untroubled by the rumble of cars, cuts through golden sunflower fields as craggy mountain peaks serrate the horizon. It’s a stunning section of the ride.

Disaster strikes as my lower gears malfunction. But help is close to hand and the three bells of the Iglesia de la Virgen del Carmen ring me into Montecorto, where the 450 inhabitants are also gearing up for their first Independence Day celebrations.

Bougainvillea climbs whitewashed walls and a fresh mountain spring meanders through the village. A khakifatigued hunter, rifle slung over shoulder, strides past.

Also here to greet me is Claire Higgins, who has run Andalucian Cycling Experience with her husband Ash-

BUSTED: Joe’s bike

ley for 10 years. The company organises cycling holidays and accommodation around Ronda. Not only has Ashley mapped my route but Claire attends to my bike’s gear issues (finding a mechanic is like divining water in a des-

ert to the stranded cyclist).

“We fell in love with Ronda,” says Claire. “It’s got good mountain-biking, there are flat rides for families and some really big climbs for those who want to test themselves.”

As I say goodbye, the clouds burst (October and November are Ronda’s wettest months). I seek sanctuary in a nearby restaurant before braving the elements and the steep climb towards southern Europe’s oldest subterranean cave system, the spectacular Cueva del Gato. Its waterfall and natural pool make a refreshing stop for the summer cyclist.

And it’s not all downhill from here. If you’re feeling a little saddle sore, head to Benaojan-Montejaque station where a train will speed you and your bike back to Ronda for a wellearned beer.

READY TO RIDE: Andalucian Cycling Experience crew

Touring with the pros THE Andalucian Cycling Experience team have been guiding riders through Ronda’s stunning scenery for more than 11 years.

Husband and wife owners Ashley and Claire Higgins’ business caters for all ranges of biking ability from their base in the picturesque village of Montecorto. And they sort everything out from the bikes to accommodation to food.

From novices and families to budding Chris Froomes, the British expats’ expert tours will take cyclists into the heart of one of Spain’s most stunning settings.

"We have a range of road bikes for hire and we even have children’s chariots and kids’ seats so the whole family can come along," says Ashley.

"If there are people on the coast, they can come up and join us for a day’s riding, or they can come up and spend three days to a week."

Ashley and Claire set up the business after swapping the UK 'rat race' for the hills of Andalucia.

They fell in love with Montecorto after two years scouring Malaga and Ronda for the perfect base.

Mountain biking along trails or road cycling with will take riders through hidden gems like Zahara, Setenil and the Roman ruins of Acinipo.

Accommodation ranges from fully-furnished villas with swimming pools that sleep 4 to 6 people to comfy townhouses - perfect to relax in after a day’s riding.

A fully qualified mechanic is on hand - with a van to scoop up anyone finding the going tough and 40% of bookings are from recommendations or satisfied customers returning for another holiday.

Visit www.andaluciancyclingexperience. com or call 952 184 042

Hands in the Aire!

WITH an enormous glass of gin and tonic in one hand and a huge smile slapped across his face, the mayor of Arriate celebrated the 11th edition of the town’s Fiesta en el Aire as energetically as anyone.

Not your average alcalde, Melchor Conde Marin shook hands and danced with dozens of happy constituents as he joined thousands of residents - and numerous tourists - to toast yet another successful al fresco fest.

Rows of food and drink stalls lined the streets and artisan games were dotted about for kids to enjoy during the three-

day fiesta.

Started in 2005, the weekend bash is rounded off with a live music concert in the town square.

Colourful art sculptures featuring umbrellas hanging between the streets and wooden chairs stacked atop of one another were another highlight of this year’s event.

The town is one of the most authentic in the Serrania and counts on one of the best restaurants in Andalucia, El Muelle (www.elmuelle-arriate.com), as well as a superb rural hotel Arriadh (www.arriadhhotel.com).

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The city for dreaming

October 26th - November 8th 2016

WHERE TO EAT

It’s a true melting pot from authentic to creative cuisine in the Serrania de Ronda, writes Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke

You are spoilt for choice with romantic and hip places to stay around Ronda

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HERE is an unsurprisingly good choice of places to lay down your head in the 'City of Dreams', as Dutch poet Rilke once described Ronda.

In the heart of the city though few places are as emblematic as the Reina Victoria (www.hoteles-catalonia.com), which was built over 100 years ago by British builders when the train line first arrived here from the coast.

Standing in an enviable spot overlooking the gorge (see pic, right) this upmarket hotel is a place to lie back and luxuriate, relax and enjoy the best views in Christendom.

Completely upgraded into a modern four star hotel by the Catalonia group four years ago, its rooms are stylish and comfortable and its gardens impressive, counting on a fabulous pool and no less than 70 palm trees.

Those looking for a more budget offering should try the central Hotel Morales (www.hotelmorales.es), which sits in the heart of the town, perfect for the shops, and the main transport links.

However, it is out in the Serrania countryside itself that you will be really spoilt for choice.

Close by, check Hotel Arriadh in Arriate (www. arriadhhotel.com), which counts on some of the best views anywhere in Spain.

Often described as ‘zen-like’ the clean lines and maximising of light and views is all thanks to the talents of Dutch couple John and Wilfred.

Excellent value, it has an amazingly peaceful garden and a splendid infinity pool.

Another option in the authentic village of Arriate is

Villa Ignacia (www.villaignacia.com), which sits in the most peaceful valley with amazing views.

Good value, it is run by a Dutch woman, who knows the area well.

Also close to Ronda by a meandering river is the charming converted mill Molino del Puente (www.hotelmolinodelpuente.com), basically a restaurant with rooms, thanks to chef Ian Love, who has been producing tip top tucker for decades.

Alongside his wife Elaine Love, this historic spot is very popular with visitors from the coast and, best of all, is well connected, while being very peaceful.

Over in Benaojan you should check out Molino del Santo (www.molinodelsanto.com), a classic rural retreat, which has been serving the area for three decades.

Run by Pauline and Andy, the hotel has the knack of keeping guests happy with just the right mix of comfort, good food and character.

Regularly topping Trip Advisor for all of Andalucia, the historic mill sits by a raging stream, that emerges as a spring above the hotel.

Meanwhile, across the border in Cadiz province you will find one of the most amazing towns in Andalucia. Best of all Zahara de la Sierra has a splendid hotel restaurant Al Lago (www.allago.es) where Mona and Stefan Crites do a wonderful job feeding and pampering guests, particularly with their stunning new suites, with roll top baths and views to die for.

Last, but not least, why not try out Hostal Anon (www.hostalanon.com) over in Jimena, which is a great place for a romantic break. It’s been a classic stopover for travelers for decades and the rooms have a Spanish rustic feel, while the outside intertwining terraces have a Moorish décor.

Only a 5 minute drive from Ronda, in the

FAMILY AFFAIRS: At El Pino and (top) Siempre Igual

FTER a day’s sightseeing or a bracing mountain walk there is nothing better than a fabulous restaurant or tapas tour.

And Ronda has the lot, from authentic tapas bars to creative restaurants, burgeoning with the celebrated local produce, including amazing cheeses, mushrooms, fruits, nuts and vegetables.

The best, include longstanding winners, such as Pedro Romero, Casa Santa Pola and soulful Almocobar, while the rural delights of Molino del Santo, Molino del Puente and El Muelle continue to take the biscuit.

Up in Ronda check out authentic Porton – an institution - run by two friends Javier and Pepe for the last 40 years. Here, you will find my favourite Ronda tapa, the

wonderful quails egg with ham on toast.

Across the bridge in the emblematic town hall square look out for Meson El Sacristan run by friendly Antonio. It has Roman ruins in the basement and easily the best steaks in the town, cooked on a wood-oven.

For history and tradition head to Pedro Romero, opposite the bullring, which is wall to wall in bullfighting photos and posters. Run by brothers, including Tomas, one of Spain’s top sommeliers, you should try the fantastic rabo de toro and let him select the wine.

For views and ambience Casa Santa Pola comes out tops, sitting literally in the famous tajo gorge. Run by livewire Catalan chef Ignacio you will always be spoilt for top quality ingredients and some magical

Hotel Molino del Puente & La Cascada Restaurant

The well known Hotel Molino del Puente & the highly acclaimed La Cascada Restaurante are now taking bookings for Christmas and New Year stunning Andalucian countryside. Take all the stress out of Christmas & New Year and enjoy delicious food and luxury accommodation in this converted olive and flour mill.

Treat yourself to a wonderful festive break at Molino del Puente Traditional Christmas Lunch & New Years Eve Gala Dinner in the comfort of LA CASCADA RESTAURANT

...........................

NEW YEARS EVE GALA DINNER FREE BAR until 4am and live music by the duo Lindsey & Elizabeth - €85 For further information visit www.hotelmolinodelpuente.com or call 952874164

IDYLLIC: The dining terrace at Molino del Puente

Marvellous mill YOU sit in the heart of an ancient olive mill or outside on a shady terrace, beside a river with weeping willows and birdsong as accompaniment.

Yes, La Cascada at Molino del Puente is the very epitome of the Andalucian vernacular.

This centuries old molino has been carefully renovated by expats Ian and Elaine Love, who are constantly upping their game.

Ian and Elaine Love have been charming diners at La Cascada for a decade now

Stone walls, candles and wooden dining tables, poke around and you will find plenty of evidence of the building’s history, including mill stones outside.

After a decade on the coast in Cabopino, they upped sticks for this rural idyll for a more authentic life and to bring up their three daughters.

The menu is full and includes plenty of local favourites such as mountain trout and fresh grilled asparagus, not to mention some of the best Jamon Iberico I’ve tried in ages.

Then there are Ian’s fantastic Atlantic mussels with green chilli, coriander and coconut milk.

There are plenty of veggie dishes, including a pastry tart filled with courgettes, aubergine and topped with parmesan and pesto and there is even a Thai prawn curry on the list for those looking for something a little spicy.

I went for the fantastic special of the day, seasoned cardo mushrooms,

that had just arrived from a local supplier following the first rains of autumn.

Cooked to a tee, laden on crusty bread and drizzled with olive oil, food doesn’t get much better.

For a main I went for the fabulous lamb puff pastry tart, in a red wine reduction.

A genuine labour of love (I’d watched Ian prepare it earlier) it not only looked delicious, it was. A true winner.

My pudding of peach cheesecake went down well with its edible flowers, not to mention creme fraiche and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for good measure.

The wine list was a little thin and I had expected a few more local wines and a bit more variety.

That said the El Nino Leon, by local bodega Conrad, rarely lets you down and at 19.50 it was fairly priced.

The next door vineyard of Los Frutales provides its Vizcondesa at 14.50.

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Foodie paradise RONDA FACTS: Frank at El Muelle, Antonio at Sacristan, Ignancio at Santa Pola, Monolo at Almocobar and brothers at Pedro Romero

cooking skills.

Another great new place is Simpre Igual in the new town where an entire family keeps up the standards.

Another long-term stalwart is the three decades old Almocobar, a true Dining Secret (www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com), which ticks just about every box for atmosphere, service, food and wines, including just about every Ronda wine, some two dozen at least.

Meanwhile, ex-Almocobar stalwart Antonio has moved to the charming, authentic spot El Pino in a nearby side street. A classic hole in the wall local, Antonio is charm personified and his tapas, including an amazing spinach and chicken burger, were fabulous.

Outside Ronda a number of great places stand out.

At La Cascada, at hotel Molino del Puente, you will find chef Ian Love, who has been winning plaudits for his tasty creations for many years.

BREATHTAKING: Molino del Santa and (below) team at Porton

HOSTESS: Mona at Al Cago

Charming

Dutchman Frank Rottgering is the perfect host, while local chef Isa from nearby Alcala del Valle, is a whiz in the kitchen, creating stunning food at fabulous prices.

Another amazing rural spot is Molino del Santo, which

comes out tops in so many ways, for views, location, food and service.

And it’s hardly surprising, counting on 30 years hard work from owners Pauline and Andy, who are constantly improving its offering and never scrimp on

quality.

Meanwhile, local chef Alberto just keeps getting better, andthe menu changes by the week and there are always plenty of twists and flourishes.

Expect excellent local wines, mostly local and seasonal produce and easily the nicest outdoor dining terrace one can imagine.

Booking is essential.

Another amazing restaurant, Al Lago, sits just over the border in Cadiz province. Set up by talented chef Stefan Crites, from America, and his wife Mona, from the UK, you will be spoilt for local ingredients, including venison, wild boar and mushrooms and the views across the stunning Zahara lake are very difficult to beat. www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com

Tlf: 687 153 867 / 609 925 554 C/ San José n° 2 Esquina Calle Jerez. Ronda ( Málaga)

Casa

SANTA POLA R E S T A U R A N T

RONDA

It’s a charming spot with an amazing terrace in good weather and atmospheric inside for cold winter nights.

Another genuine success story is El Muelle, in Arriate, which finds clients driving for hours just for lunch.

For many years ‘Number One’ on TripAdvisor in Andalucia (out of nearly 20,000 restaurants, although the algorithm has now changed), a trip to this converted train storeroom is an absolute must.

Traditional & Mediterranian food We specialise in Andalusian Wines

Cuesta de Santo Domigo, 3 RONDA (Málaga) 952 87 92 08 santapola@ronda.net www.rsantapola.com

Traditional dishes of Ronda

30

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

Ronda Properties is a forward thinking contemporary Estate Agency rooted in traditional values.

It offers its clients a personal service and has a proven track record of successful sales.

Historic Spanish Cortijo

Renovated Village House

Beautiful, historic Cortijo, flat land,pool, stables, outbuildings and spectacular views. Architecture dating from 1835, and a wonderful, original stone courtyard.

Partially renovated the Cortio has beautiful living accommodation in a 2 storey building, including first floor with 5 spacious bedrooms.

Charming 2 storey village house. The house is fully renovated and has outstanding views.

Comprises spacious accommodation, sittingroom-diner and good fitted kitchen. High ceilings and attractive Spanish style arches give the house a distinctive look.

Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Build: Plot:

Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Build: Plot:

9 4 2,850m2 542,000m2

3 1 90m2 0m2

Ref: 65018

Ref: 80410

Grand Historic House, Ronda

Historic Quarter

Small Palace of great architectural and artistic value located in the heart of the old quarter. The Palacete is built over 2 floors with 3 entrances, the main entrance opening onto a splendid interior patio, an outstanding feature of the house with a fine domed glass roof and handmade tiles.

Character property – delightful renovated townhouse on 3 floors.

The property comprises 3 bedrooms, bathroom, sitting-room-diner, fitted kitchen and enclosed terrace. Set on a pretty cobbled street in a quiet area and only 5 minutes on foot from the centre.

Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Build: Plot:

Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Build: Plot:

€3,000,000

7 4 800m2 0m2

Ref: 78501

€2,500,000

€56,000

3 1 70m2 0m2

Ref: 80577

€189.00

Established in 2006 we specialise in inland property with an extensive portfolio of white village and country homes.

Ronda Properties Estate Agent Inland Andalusia, c/San José, 1 29400, Ronda, Malaga, Spain

Tel: (+34) 952 187 313 Mob: (+34) 608 765 990 Email: info@rondaproperties.com www.rondaproperties.com

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7th 2016

Booming July predicted following to ‘pause’ in run-up EU referendum Special report

by Iona Napier

and Wells

IN COME THE BIG BUCKS!

Spanish property

around €86 mil“We have spent and have a fund lion here so far to spend,” exof €100 million Partner Peter plained Managing Colorado.

Wells, based in the largest devel“We are one of del Sol and opers on the Costa is on distressed our emphasis properties.” we do things He added: “Also always try and transparently and and quality.” deliver on price which made hunThe company - buying and selldreds of millionsproperties in the ing distressed working out of US - has 16 staff Plaza. its office at Centro Cox, added: to Local boss Taylor really starting “The coast is it’s a pleasure to come alive and part of the live in such a beautiful world.”

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Roll on Remain

Gibraltar are in Spain and ESTATE agents up for the busiest July on lining themselves put purrecord.

British buyers EU It comes as some due to the forthcoming chases on holdJune 23. referendum on Olive Press spoke to conMost agents the various sales currently firmed they had the result, despite the ‘paused’ awaiting remaining strong.

British market that the exThe majority believe to stay in Europe pected result - pound strength- will lead to the hot summer of ening with a red sales to follow. at Holmes Sotois Ben Bateman, the referendumfor property fund A HUGE US million on three grande, described ‘pause for thought splashing €45Sol developments. lead up as a due to concerns over new Costa del bosses behind British buyers’ The American Solutions have the weak pound.vote however, we expect to a sudReal Capital sizeable plots in “After a remain the year - and to up finish he snapped see a strong and Benahavis from British buyers,” Estepona, Mijas den wave of bids to look at further and continue gone one step told the Olive Press. the coast.

Gibraltar has extra staff for opportunities along One agent in based in Marbella employing The company, further actually has five othSammy Cruz-Armstrong since 2013, alreadyincluding The July. Savills directoris on hold due to Brexit, “Everything in Europe er developments, stay said: will we Retreat, in Elviria. in July to deal but I am convinced on extra staff and am taking deluge of business.” with the expected Scott Marshall of ProperBenahavis agent

BOSSES: Cox

Currency Exchange

Don’t miss www.theolivepress.es Where is Gillian buying?

pause as described the tieSpain, meanwhile, of the uncertainty ‘very psychological’. combination of He said: “It’s a exchange rate right now.” curof sales the vote and the have a couple more.

While many agents unsome have seen rently on hold, ten sales currently on hold “We have up to said Victor Witkowski, til after the referendum,” in Manilva. but boss of Castles, necessarily pulling out, hap“Buyers are not their time to see what they are biding Hamilton, also pens.” agent, Shani are Fellow Manilva but added: “We as as soon confirmed a slowdown, influx of business predicting a huge a decision is made.”

Deals

sales by nationality

and quarter

Registradores

PAGE 19

Where are the coolest Airbnbs?

this month statistics out and Either way, official market remains strong their confirm the British continue to look for tens of thousands that fordream home.

Mark Stucklin insists 16% Respected analystSpanish property was up eign demand for with Brits the biggest group in the first quarterat 22% of the market share.for of foreign buyersdominate the foreign market of a notice“The British still is no evidence said. he property and there demand as yet,” able decline in everyone is suffering.

And certainly not Govier of Inland Andalucia the One agent, Graham impact’ at all during has seen ‘no negative are extremely referendum lead-up. opposite. Prices as “In fact it is the and we are selling two times cheap right now as we were last year,” he said.of many propertiessalesman Paul - already a bit sevHe added: “My - has just completed his a local celebrity sale and people are buying enth consecutive see that the incredible deals because they can for them forever,” he added. last won’t wait around in the Olive Press headlines propernine made Paul sold an impressive year when he

Q1 2016 sight.com Source: 2015 Q4 2015 Q2 2015 Q3 www.spanishpropertyin 2014 Q1 2015 Q3 2014 Q4 2014 Q2 2014 Q4 2013 Q1 2013 Q3 2013 Q1 2013 Q2

ties in a row.

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How to reclaim floor clause fees

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Introducing OP’s Agony Uncle

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or when buying Save money y in Spain selling your properton +34 951 401 921 please call us For more information currencyexchange.com or email spain@smart

our Property magazine out next issue

SPANISH architect Enrique Nuere has been awarded €50,000 after winning the Rafael Manzano Architecture Prize.

He was presented with the coveted award at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in San Fernando.

Nuere, 78, is best known for creating wooden ceilings with sunken panels through laser carpentry, inspired by those from the 17th century.

The Valencian-born maestro has been praised for recovering the craft of the carpinteros de lo blanco – or construction carpenters – which had MAESTRO: been lost in the Nuere 18th century.

Nuere’s most notable works include the new ceilings of the galleries of the Patio del Alcazar in Toledo, the framework of the auditorium of the University of Alcala de Henares and the framework of the Buenavista Palace in Malaga, which has become the Picasso Museum.

The Manzano Prize recognises the work of architects who defend and preserve Spain’s unique architectural heritage.

Castle seized

Parador inside medieval castle closed down after 18 months of protests

A PARADOR inside a 12th century Galician castle has lost its fight to be declared legal.

The High Court has annulled permission to use the Castillo de Monterrei in Xustiza as a luxury hotel.

It comes after an 18-month courtbattle following protests against the original building permit granted in May 2014.

Those opposed to the plans claimed that the original permission given to developers would ‘destroy an important part of history’.

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Super port A NEW superyacht marina has opened in Spain.

Port Denia, located between Alicante on the Costa Download our appand nowValencia and Blanca, has some of thebegin largest berths in the world at 138 meenjoying the best Spanish tres. news on the go.

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The ruling found that the original permission granted by Monterrei Town Hall had exceeded building regulations and planning laws.

The medieval castle belonged to the House of Alba and is one of the best preserved in northern Spain.

The town hall wanted to transform the castle to boost dwindling tourism figures in the area.

“The plan behind the castle-parador was to increase cultural tour-

ILLEGAL: Parador in castle

ism in the region and attract more business to the area,” a town hall spokesman said.

The Galician tourist board - which supports the parador - is now considering filing an appeal against the ruling.

Ta r i fa I n m o b i l i a r i a w w w. t a r i fa i n m o b i l i a r i a . c o m

years 13 11+ experience in

ALL PROPERTY MATTERS

RICS BUILDING SURVEYORS

BY CAMPBELL FERGUSON& VALUERS

For peace of mind follow

British expats have been hit hardest by poundthese devaluation property buying rules

AVE sympathy for those on a fixed sterling income, whether they be pensioners or salaried staff, because their real income in Spain has dropped by more than 17% since the Brexit vote. For pensioners, who have saved for a relaxed retirement in the sun, they at least probably won’t have a mortgage to pay, but there will be health bills or private policies and other fixed costs.

And what if you work in Gibraltar crossing the border each day? Your income has dropped by the same amount with no compensation. If you are still working, have a mortgage, family and other fixed costs, good grief, what’s happened to your quality of life? OK sunshine is nice, but you cannot live on that alone.

At least if you sell here you’ll get more pounds to buy over there, but the costs of sale and purchase are high so you could end up losing money. And house prices in the UK, good grief again, they’ve risen on average 8.4% in the last year, with a valuer friend claiming that in the Bromley area of London alone some had risen by 60%! The economists are all pleased to see inflation rising in UK, but that whittles down fixed income fast. It’s inevitable given the amount of quantitative easing/ money printing that’s been going on. The rise now was principally due to increases in energy prices, which will affect everything else. There’s talk of interest rates rising too, which again will raise costs, especially because a very small increase can double payments based upon it.

The ‘Marmagedon’ scare (No marmite because Tesco wasn’t prepared to accept the supplier’s proposed price increase), which was due to the fall in value of the pound meaning that importers had to pay more for it, was only the start. Prices for all imports are bound to rise in the UK, which will stoke up inflation even more.

It’s being cheerful that keeps me going!

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And what if you stay? Well, who knows what GovYour Property ernment will arrive for Spain andFind when?

Whichever comes in, it’s got big, big financial problems that are likely to see social services cut and taxes rise.

There isn’t a choice. Hopefully,Instruct instead of money Instruct Building Surveyor ‘locked’ Lawyer being paid in fines to the EU or being in the assets of banks to keep them strong for the next stress test, whatever is available will be used to add dynamism to the economy.

If the huge asBuy with Knowledge set of the unemployed can be activated to work & Confidence for themselves and the national economy, they move instantly from a cost to a benefit. Keep the +34 952 923 520 money churning round (and especially not off to admin@surveyspain.com corrupt individuals’ offshore accounts) and it will surveyspain.com create wealth.

The lies behind Brexit have hit expats quicker and harder than most British Citizens. Yet because of the 15-year rule many weren’t permitted to vote. And now, after the horse has bolted, the UK Government is righteously talking of keeping its promise and granting the perpetual voting right.

But for the immediate future the fixed income expat is in a hard place. And even the fixed income state pension is at risk, with talk of fiddling with it to reduce the costs to the state. But hang on, were there not so many promises made over the years that the income one paid in would multiply and be bountifully repaid upon retiral?

What’s actually happened is that it’s been like a giant Ponzi scheme, where the money paid in for investment, was actually paid out as ‘return’ to others already in the scheme. It’s come to the natural end of these schemes where there are insufficient people paying in to cover the ‘return’ payments to those who have paid into the scheme before. ‘Bernie’ Madoff is described as an American fraudster and serving 150 years in prison for running a scheme not much different from the UK’s National Insurance.

Contact Campbell and the team on +34 952 923 520 or email info@surveyspain.com

‘Stunning Ocean Village apartment with spectacular views of the Bay of Gibraltar and the Marina.

Truly spacious open-plan living dining room with French windows to the patio, perfect for outside entertaining and superbly fitted kitchen breakfast area.

The property benefits from parking and use of the swimming pool/spa complex’

£ 569,950

Connect with us!

www.century21gibraltar.com Century21 202-204 Main Street gibraltar

tele: 00 350 200 51020 Mob: 00 350 565 23000 info@century21gibraltar.com

SaleS · RentalS · PRoPeRty ManageMent

32 32

PROPERTY

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MORTGAGE THINK TANK

I

N the real world, most people learn by their mistakes. But when it comes to picking a mortgage, you may only get one shot as it is virtually impossible to reverse a decision that goes against you!

That is why it is essential not to make the wrong decision when choosing the right mortgage provider for you.

But fear not that is what mortgage brokers are for!

And while it may make sense to go to the experts for advice, there will always be those who think they know better and will still go it alone regardless… Good luck to them (they are going to need it).

There are many hurdles that can trip you up when looking for a mortgage. Here are five of the most common mistakes made by buyers without a broker:

1) Hold the phone

When going it alone the internet is the place that most people start. From there they head to the telephone. Both bad decisions. Choosing a loan provider based on a telephone conversation or internet search is more likely to reveal the biggest liar rather than the best quote. In order to weed out the snakes, buyers need to understand the difference between posted prices and quoted prices. Posted prices are those that lenders distribute to their loan officers and place on their website and on other websites. The posted price is the price the lender would lock to a qualified borrower whose application has been fully processed. However, on the phone or via internet searches, buyers are more likely to come across quoted prices: usually

October 26th - November 8th 2016

October 26th - November 8th 2016

by mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola

One is the loneliest number

3)Tomorrow never comes

When shopping around it is important to remember that a quote from Bank A on Monday cannot be compared to Bank B on Tuesday. In other words, unless a buyer receives a quote from all lenders on the same day then they probably wasting their time. One of the values of a broker is the ability to approach multiple lenders at the same point in time to compare relevant prices.

4) Agreeing to incomplete T’s & C’s

Searching out a mortgage on your own can be a minefield of mistakes

a low price communicated to the buyers in order to rope them in and move the process along until it is too late and the real price has skyrocketed. Long story short: the best deal is not online or over the phone! Beware catchy advertising

2) Flashy ads are a no go

If a mortgage lender is splashing big bucks on advertising, it means one of two things: The company is hugely successful and can afford to do so with no effect to its customers. Or - and much more common - its prices are going to be higher than its competitors to pay for the cost of mass advertising. Long story short, a buyer is more likely to find a good lender by picking a page in the yellow pages than they are by responding to an advert.

Each loan agreement has many sub sections that must be ironed out before a complete quote can be formalised. However, lenders will offer buyers the opportunity to sign on the dotted line of a partially completed quote. This leaves the buyer vulnerable to hidden costs or rate increases at a later date. The crux of the point: don’t deal with lenders whose price quotes are incomplete.

5) Too quick to be true

When searching for a loan, a lender will need access to accurate information about the buyer e.g. annual income, credit score etc. If a lender is offering a quote before obtaining this information then alarm bells should be ringing! Like many things - especially in Spain - working out a loan takes time, and in this case there is good reason for it.

The moral of the story: A simple way to avoid making these mistakes is to use a mortgage broker!

To contact Tancrede for all your mortgaging needs call: 666 709 743 or for insurance queries call: 951 203 540 Email: tdp@thefinanacebureau.com The Finance Bureau Centro Commercial Guadalmina, 2nOffice No. 7 Guadalmina, 29670

Marbella award ceremony reveals world’s top luxury hotels

Top class

THE world’s top hotel owners have been in Marbella for the annual Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards.

Taking place at the Villa Padierna Palace, hotel owners flew in from across the globe for the fourth edition of the prestigious event.

Exclusive properties from across the globe received the Signum Virtutis sea of excellence award, including the Byblos in St Tropez, the Peninsula in Paris and the Castadiva Resort & Spa in Lake Como.

Individual awards were also handed out, with Beverly Hills hotel founder Sol Kerzner claiming a lifetime achievement award.

Meanwhile, German entrepreneur Regine Sixt was awarded the woman of the year award and Valentine Ozigbo of Transcorp Hotels claimed the gong for CEO of the year.

As well as the award ceremony, guests were also treated to a cocktail reception and a performance of Nessun Dorma by Ukrainian soprano Arina Domski.

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Big leap BE ‘APPY! HOUSE sales were

up 20% this summer across Spain compared to the same time last year, according to the National Institute of Statistics (INE).

Download our app now and begin enjoying the best Spanish news on the go.

Hard times

BUSINESS round-up

Writing’s on the wall Historical

MORE than a miltapestry lion Andalucians are factory living on a monthly income of under founded by €332, with 43% of King Felipe V the population living beneath or on saved by local the ‘poverty line’, according to governThe Olive Pressgovernment ment statistics.

BUSINESS schools in Spain have been named the best for entrepreneurs.

Research by the Financial Times found that Spain had the highest proportion of students who set up their own company following graduation.

With 26% of its business school students creating their own company, the country surpassed the US and UK, with 19% and 24% respectively.

Spain’s students were also found to be the most driven, receiving a 9.1 out of 10 in the ‘motivation’ category.

factory in Spain has been saved from bankruptcy following an injection of public money, a debt restructuring plan and its biggest order in 200 years.

The 296-year-old Royal Tapestry Factory in Madrid hit trouble when the market for hand-woven tapestries and rugs plummeted during Spain’s financial crisis.

Its tapestries and rugs can be seen in every palace of the Spanish Crown, including the Royal Palace, the Palace of El Pardo, Aranjuez Palace and the Riofrio Palace.

King Felipe V first founded the factory to make the Spanish palaces more comfortable.

“It was now or never,” said

ARTISTS: Tapestry creators hard at work

Maria Pardo, a Madrid city council official who announced with the regional government and the Ministry of Culture an increase in annual subsidies to €1.5m next year from €900,000 euros.

The factory barely received any public money before 2015.

The cash has allowed the factory, which restores historical pieces as well as taking on new orders, to pay delayed wages.

A restructuring of bank

debt and a focus on international sales have also helped the business with its turnaround.

The revived company, which holds a priceless collection of tapestry templates by Spanish artists including Francisco de Goya, has had to almost double its staff to 60 to deal with new orders.

The German regional government of Saxony has recently commissioned 32 tapestries, the factory’s biggest order in the last two centuries.

Property AGONY ANT

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED BY ANTONIO FLORES

Lock up dodgy estate agents

T

WO court rulings have each confirmed that real estate agents should serve a minimum of two years in prison for defrauding both buyers and sellers. The punishment meted out to these professionals relates to the dishonest - albeit not common - habit of structuring their commission payment on the difference between what the buyer pays and what the seller receives…without telling either party what these figures were.

The Courts, on finding the estate agents guilty on counts of criminal fraud, concluded the following: • Both buyer and seller were unaware of the real terms of the deal, having the estate agent effectively obtain the consent of both parties on different prices to those reciprocally agreed with either party, causing loss to both.

• The dual agreements are not a reflection of the real facts, the price for the buyer and the vendor are different and the ‘agreed commission’ is not real, as it was jacked up.

• The ‘buyer’s price’ was not the lowest he could get away with and the ‘seller’s price’ was not the highest the property could

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Top gear A 20-YEAR-OLD former karting champion has stepped out of the driver’s seat to set up an international car rental service.

Irish expat Eric Morris has launched his Hero Rent a Car service with access to 28,000 locations in more than 190 countries.

Living on the Costa del Sol for 14 years, the young entrepreneur has put his racing lifestyle - and a banking and finance degree - on hold to focus on SPAIN’S finance ministry has in- his business formed the European Commission Working with over 550 car suppliers, that it will miss its deficit targets.

The country has forecast its deficit Hero Rent a Car to be 3.6% of its GDP come the end pledges to find the best deal for each of 2016, missing the goal of 3.1%.

The EC noted the country’s ensu- customer. ing political deadlock, which has “Hero Rent A Car seen two inconclusive elections in- is here to save you side a year and no government for from high prices,” Morris said. “Our over nine months.

Brussels had let Portugal and aim is to provide our Spain off the hook in July when it customers with the debated whether or not to impose most efficient and potentially crippling fines for hav- cost effective way of ing a budget deficit of more than hiring a car.”

“We are up to 35% 3.0%.

It ruled that both were attempting cheaper than if you to get their deficits under control, go to the car supplier and told them to stay on a path of direct.”

For more info ‘fiscal consolidation’.

Brussels has not yet commented visit www.heroon the latest forecasts, but it could r e n t a c a r . c o m see Spain face billions of euros or email Info@ herorentacar. worth of fines. com

Missed the mark

TOP for news in Spain!

A CENTURIES-old tapestry

The very best

3333

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Precedent set as dishonest home-sellers sentenced to jail achieve, owing to an artificial and fabricated deal.

• The court refutes the defence allegation that the real estate agent bought and then sold the property, at a profit, on grounds that it is improper conduct for real estate brokers to act in such a manner, in addition to concealing the true nature of the deal to its customers.

• The Court does not accept that both buyer and seller were satisfied at the time with the terms of the agreed transaction: they probably were as they did not know otherwise, owing to the disinformation and deception devised by the agent.

• There is an aggravating circumstance in that the real estate agent, operating via an establishment opened to the public, added further credibility to their actions and facilitated the removal of objections by buyer and seller.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es

Moving in BOUTIQUE hotel chain Room Mate has announced it is launching in the UK. CEO of the Spanish group, Kike Sarasola, has said he will first open in London, saying it is the perfect time to invest in the UK capital.

“London is throbbing,” he said, “I don’t see any impact from Brexit, it’s on fire!”

He is currently searching for suitable sites for his ‘affordable luxury’ hotel brand, which already operates across Europe, Turkey the US and Mexico, and which has three hotels in Malaga.

The group plans to expand into other UK cities once London has been established as a base.

1 euro is worth 1.11 American dollars 0.90 British pounds 1.46 Canadian dollars 7.44 Danish kroner 8.59 H Kong dollars

34 34

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BREXIT Bulletin

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

Bargain border Gibraltar exports up as Spaniards cross border in search of bargain buys

Chocolate wars!

CHOCOHOLICS will be stocking their shelves by the boxload as Brexit threatens to spoil their beloved bars.

In a bizarre consequence of leaving the EU, Britain may lose a key ingredient from its chocolate production.

EU rules demand chocolate contains 30% cocoa - compared with only 10% in the US.

THE falling pound has boosted trade in Gibraltar as Spaniards flock to the Rock in search of bargains.

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said the favourable exchange rate has seen an influx of Spanish shoppers heading to Gibraltar’s stores and supermarkets.

As the pound slumps to a 168-year low, bargains are to be had for those paid in euros across the border.

“A devalued pound is good for Gibraltarian exports, so from the point of view of the public finances of Gibraltar we are not doing badly,” Picardo said.

“You’ll see there will be a lot of

products sold in Gibraltar, we see more Spaniards come into Gibraltar to buy things.

“I tend to go shopping with my family on a Saturday afternoon to the local supermarkets, and we are seeing a lot of Spanish couples coming in to buy curios in Gibraltar they might otherwise not have been interested in purchasing. Their euros go much further.”

Among popular products flying off the shelves are tomato ketchup, Marmite and other British goods that still sell at a costly price in Spain.

COUNTRIES in Europe have disagreed over the gender of Brexit.

Most European languages use different genders for nouns, and in Spain, Germany and France, ‘Brexit’ is masculine.

Spaniards say el Brexit, Germans der Brexit and French le Brexit, but in neighbouring Italy the term for Britain’s EU divorce becomes feminine, with Italians using ‘la Brexit’.

Linguists say the word for exit in Italian, ‘uscita’, is feminine, so Brexit should be too.

But in France, most words ending in ‘t’ are masculine and the German term for exit is masculine too, while in Spain, most words adopted from English become masculine by default, which some blame on its Latin roots. At least the EU - bar Italy - seem to be able to agree on something.

Brief By Charles Gomez

Can the individual rights of 64 million UK citizens be made to disappear at the stroke of a pen?

Allowed

If Britain leaves the EU, companies such as Cadbury - owned by Americans - would be allowed to lower the amount of cocoa in their production to cut costs.

“As a business that sells products across the EU, we look forward to having clarity on the UK’s role within Europe so that we can have certainty and make long term plans for our business,” a spokesman for Cadbury said.

UP FOR GRABS: British products

Identity crisis

So what of European ‘citizenship’?

I Prime time talks BRITISH Prime Minister Theresa May’s visit to Spain was as eagerly anticipated in Gibraltar as it was in Spain.

Gibraltar - and foreign minister Margallo’s obsession with joint sovereignty was expected to feature heavily in the talks with Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy.

But depending on who you believe, it either didn’t come up, or didn’t work out the way May would have wanted.

While Spanish rightwing paper ABC claimed Rajoy stuck the boot in over Gibraltar, a spokesman for No.10 told the Olive Press that Gibraltar’s sovereignty was not discussed.

According to ABC, Rajoy told May that Gibraltar must abandon the single market if Britain exits the EU and that Spain ‘would not accept different conditions for Gibraltar’ once Britain leaves the EU.

n my column on October 1 2016 I wrote about the British Government’s power to use the ancient Royal Prerogative to push BREXIT through, regardless of Parliament (you can read the article online).

This week the UK’s Attorney General, Jeremy Wright Q.C. told the London High Court hearing the legal challenge over Theresa May’s right to trigger article 50 that the Royal Prerogative is suitable for giving notice of the UK’s secession from the EU. The case has been brought by a number of claimants led by Gina Miller, a London-based investment manager for the firm SCM Private. Crowds of Brexit and Bremain supporters have demonstrated daily outside the court in a sign of huge public interest.

As the case proceeds, I think that it will be held that the Prime Minister can use the Royal Prerogative to side-step Parliament, but that this will only be the tip of an iceberg of complicated legal issues which will have to be determined initially by the special threejudge High Court bench currently hearing the claim.

It is my understanding that because of the urgency of the case, any appeal may go straight to the Supreme Court in London, avoiding the Court of Appeal, which is normally the next tier in the English Court hierarchy. The hope is that the matter will be finally decided by the Supreme Court before Christmas (very much in the same way as in 1914 it was thought that the war would end before that holiday).

The Supreme Court (which replaced the ‘House of Lords’ in October 2009) is the highest domestic court, not just for England, but for the whole of the United Kingdom.

So, what other legal issues, apart from the use of the Prerogative, will tax the top judges of the Kingdom?

So far, most of the focus, post-23rd of June 2016 has been on the rights and obligations as between the Member States of the European Union – the UK and 27 others.

However, as the litigation proceeds, I envisage that attention will turn to individual civil rights. As a matter of English, Scottish, Northern Irish and Gibraltarian laws, have the citizens of the United Kingdom

and Gibraltar acquired “legitimate expectations” arising from UK membership which, it would be wrong in law for the executive government in Whitehall to do away with?

For example, is the UK Government able to withdraw from its citizens the rights of free movement throughout the EU that they have grown to expect?

Are constitutionally protected private rights engaged by the Article 50 trigger?

Expectations often create enforceable legal rights.

Moreover the matter goes further than mere expectation because Article 20 (1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union states that: “Citizenship of the Union is hereby established.

Every person holding the nationality of a Member State shall be a citizen of the Union. Citizenship of the Union shall be additional to and not replace national citizenship.”

Even in Roman times the so called jus soli (the right of a person born in the Empire to citizenship) was remarkably difficult to eliminate. In our time it remains difficult to withdraw citizenship even from recently naturalized convicted terrorists.

Can the individual rights of 64 million UK citizens be made to disappear at the stroke of a pen?

To complicate matters even further, the European Court of Justice retains jurisdiction in relation to matters pertaining to the rights of citizens of the EU that would of course include an attempt at removing those rights. There is a school of thought that the European Court of Human Rights might also have jurisdiction. Thus, all is set for the mother of all legal cases and we could end up with a Brexitier’s nightmare of the final legal decision being made in... Luxembourg!

In an earlier piece still, I said that the only certain thing is uncertainty, and I think that by the end of the year the issues under judicial as well as political scrutiny are going to be very different indeed to the ones that everyone has been talking about and giving confident analysis on over the last few months.

Readers of the Olive Press are invited to discuss this or any other legal matter with Charles Gomez by emailing charles@gomezco.gi

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Vroom boom THE motoring industry is booming in the European Union and Spain is leading the way.

With year-on-year sales up 14% in Spain, the country has established itself as a key market provider within the EU. Spain's growth is only outstripped by Italy's which saw a year-on-year sales increase of 17%.

In total, the EU has seen a 7.2% rise in sales over the last 12 months, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association.

Meanwhile, Germany's market rose 9.4%, France by 2.5% and the UK by 1.6%.

Cash back TAKE out car insurance with Liberty Seguros and get €50 cash-back.

The insurance firm, which already covers 175,000 expats in Spain, is offering the deal on all new car policies bought until December 21.

“At Liberty Seguros we are totally transparent, anyone can put their trust in us without concern,” a spokesman said, “and with Christmas around the corner, €50 is not to be sneezed at.”

The deal also covers home and life insurance.

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

Smokescreen

THE Spanish government is refusing to publish an emissions report conducted prior to the Volkswagen emissions scandal.

It has emerged that 17 Volkswagen-owned vehicles were tested in Spain on the orders of the ministry of industry, energy and tourism.

A government spokesperson

THE car of the future is here. And it is powered by the internet.

The days of cars with cigarette lighters and cassette players are a distant memory, with the latest automotive essential being an internet connection.

Indeed, the value of the ‘smart’ car market - currently worth €25 billion is about to skyrocket.

With the industry predicted to grow by 25% a year over the next six years, PwC estimates that it will be worth €145 billion by 2022.

“The increase in connectivity holds real opportunity and risk.

While the overall connected mobility market is growing rapidly, the mix is shifting, with a decline in the navigation and entertainment systems

insists that the results from the real-world emissions report are in line with those carried out in France, Germany and the UK. However, the report is not going to be published and findings will not be made public.

Uncovered in 2015, the Volkswagen scandal revealed that 11 million diesel cars worldwide were exceeding legal emission levels.

Back to the future…

NOW!

Forget about the DeLorean, connected cars are the vehicle of the future

which have been the mainstay for manufacturers, coupled with the spread of

connectivity further into the more price sensitive mass market," said PwC automotive partner Rich Parkin.

"In the short- to mediumterm, suppliers of technology and mobility and digital services are the ones set to profit most from the budding connected car

market.”

‘Smart’ car technology includes up-to-date sat navs as well as driverless car technology including selfparking vehicles.

Leading the way in Spain is Seat, who just last month announced that they will be unveiling a new line of ‘connected cars’ in 2017.

Buckle up cowboy!

A SPANISH journalist was given the fright of his life while test-driving the new Jeep Renegade.

Motoring hack Pablo Gonzalez was left more than a little shaken up when the back wheels of the car left the ground following an emergency stop.

Driving at 135 km/h, Gonzalez was shocked when the car started to topple. Thankfully the back wheels landed safely on the floor and noone was hurt.

Similar test carried out by Chrysler technicians in Spain found faults with the braking system.

Jeep are now in the process of ‘fixing’ the ‘minor’ issue.

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Columnists

October 26th - November 8th 2016

Goodbye Mr Fawkes

Oct 26th - Nov 8th

How pumpkins are taking over from guys ...

P

ENNY for the guy? Not likely, these days. Thanks to the Americans, no one gives a toss for him.

Everything’s been ‘Halloweenised’ and Guy Fawkes is pumpkin pie. Not a very good one, either. The Cinderella’s carriagesized calabazas they sell in my local supermarket to turn into lanterns are so woody, my homemade pumpkin soup gave me splinters last year.

Right now, on the Costa, ex-pat Mums and Spanish mamas are knitting/sewing/ welding together ghoul and zombie costumes and sending their kids out to bully the neighbours, quaintly known as trick-or-treating.

Times change. When you’ve watched

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the Olympics firework display on wide-screen TV, who wants to shiver around a bonfire in the back garden striking matches at a damp catherine wheel nailed to the garden fence, which is how we always celebrated Guy Fawkes Night, a long time ago.

Most readers will be too young to ‘remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot’. Today it’s all about October 31, vampires, witches and fake blood capsules – in America, Europe, Spain and even in Britain itself, where burning a Catholic on a bonfire has become very unPC, even if the guy did try to blow up the king and parliament in a premeditated act of terrorism.

Although there are some who say Guy

ALMOST FORGOTTEN: Guy Fawkes

Fawkes was ‘the last man to enter Parliament with honest intentions’.

That was in 1605.

My kid brother saved his pocket money for weeks to buy firecrackers to let off in the school playground. Today the sale of over-the-counter explosives to under-18s is a crime, letting them off on the lawn is a Health & Safety issue and Social SerThe ups and downs of vices would not be edified to see young children roamworking in radio ing the streets begging, even if it is just for pennies.

Besides, there are so many more merchandising opportunities with Halloween.

We made our guys from old pyjamas stuffed with newspapers, a balloon and grandad’s old Trilby hat, which did nothing for the GDP. Today Americans spend a spooky $7 billion on Halloween costumes and candies while, in the UK, October 31 makes Bonfire Night S you may or may not be aware, I look like a damp squib and have another job as a radio preeven out-retails Valentine’s senter. Radio is your basic job for ON THE DECKS: Giles Brown Day, which says a lot about madmen, as you spend two hours all you guys of the human or more talking to yourself and playing poor South American call centre worker variety. music in a darkened room, haunted by unwittingly gets handed the direct stuthe sneaking suspicion that there could dio number and goes into the standard Spooky sales patter about changing phone be nobody out there listening.

Here in Spain, most of the Mind you, if there is one thing worse provider. Nothing pleases my dark and locals have never heard of than people not ringing in, it’s people twisted soul more than letting them try ‘Ghee Forkeys’, although ringing in. I don’t have the luxury – as and sell me the latest mobile tariff, bethey damned well ought many of the UK national stations do – of fore letting them know that they are on to have, considering he a seven-second delay. The delay means live radio. fought for their country that should a caller say something rude, Mind you, some of the guests can be during the Eighty Years offensive or a combination of the two, equally entertaining. There was the lady War. It was the Spanish the presenter has time to cut off the who brought her own coffee in a zip who taught him how to flask. Halfway through the caller and insert a jingle use explosives in the first interview she unzipped it – most famously in Birplace! and the sound was picked mingham when, in a clas‘Why don’t The Spanish didn’t know up by the microphones. The sic piece of live radio, and about Halloween either, you take that phones went mad as everyangry caller was silenced for centuries, although thus microphone and one rang to ask whether my they have their own pubguest had really disrobed “Why don’t you take that lic holiday the day after. stick it right up on air! microphone and stick it November 1st is All Saints And then there was the Caright up your …. BRMB RAyour...BRMB’ Day, when Spanish faminadian custom bike builder DIO”. lies light candles and leave who let rip with two Prxxks, The general rule of thumb fresh flowers on the graves a couple of Basxxxds and for radio call-ins seems of their loved ones. Novemto be that anyone who wants to call in other assorted language in the first ber 2 is All Soul’s Day, or shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near the 60s seconds before I could get over my the Day of the Dead, not a radio but it does lead to some high oc- shock, hit the advert button and give public holiday in Spain, altane broadcasting moments, as you are him a yellow card. though it is in Mexico. never sure what’s going to happen next. But the best recent call was from an It didn’t take the fiestaSaturday evening shows tend to attract anti-immigration campaigner. “These imloving Spanish long to rethe more, ahem, over-refreshed caller, migrants” he ranted “They come over to alise they could make a who is normally working his way through places like Birmingham, get on benefits three-day puente of it. Behis second carton of vino collapso some- and bring over their family and their elk.” sides, Halloween ghouls where in the campo and wants to hear He meant ilk. But the studio collapsed in and ghosts one day, delaughter at the image of herds of Canaeither Judas Priest or Ozzy. ceased relatives and Friday afternoons are also interesting dian moose wandering around Spaghetti graveyards the next ... it as this tends to be the time that some Junction. kind of works.

Live on air A

-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views

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Tripping out

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Celebrity gluttons Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon put Malaga restaurant on the map

By Joe Duggan

How NOT to get shipshape

STARSTRUCK: Staff with Brydon and Coogan

IT’S not every day comedy roy- edy, The Trip.

“Michael Winterbottom came ago, hosting a 20-strong film alty walk through your restau- After their gastronomic gal- in around four months ago and crew for the day was a first.

A SPANISH restaurant has rant doors. livanting around northern had a meal with us,” says Curry. “It was a completely new expebeen named the best in the But when Steve Coogan and England and Italy for previous “He was lovely, and really en- rience for us,” said Curry. “They world by online reviewers for Rob Brydon turned up at Mal- shows, which feature Coogan as joyed the food. I’ll admit, I’d not came around 11.30am and the second year in a row. aga’s Refectorium, owner Curry a travelling food critic for The heard of The Trip before, but he stayed until 6pm. I closed off Martin The Berasategui, Olivenamed PressRamirez knew it wasn’t going to Observer newspaper and Bry- gave me a copy of the last two the restaurant and my friends after its head chef of the be an average day. don as his long-suffering side- series which I watched.” ate at seven tables as extras. same name, was praised for The pair had travelled to the kick, director Michael Winter- Refectorium has specialised in “I was serving Steve and Rob. TOP for in Spain! its modern takenews on Spanish heart of Malaga’s old town to bottom had personally chosen classic Malaga fare for decades. We made them Russian salad, cuisine. film the final scenes for the Refectorium for their Malaga But even for Curry’s father, who serrano ham, grilled prawns, The three-Michelin-starred third series of their TV hit com- excursion. opened the restaurant 30 years anchovies, artichokes, calamari restaurant, based in San Seand swordfish bastian, beat out contenders for main.” from the UK, US, Europe and And of course, Asia to claim the prize. the pair The Travellers’ Choice Awards ONE of Spain’s top chefs has Basque chef revealed he stimulating and exciting to swapped jokes were based on the reviews of revealed the inspiration be- imagines serving up ban- share ideas and knowledge over a bottle of millions of TripAdvisor users hind his cooking. quets to the characters in with creative people from the finest local and were determined accordHead chef at two-Michelin- William Shakespeare’s tragic other disciplines. Mugaritz plonk. ing to the quantity and qualstarred Mugaritz restaurant play Titus Andronicus when wouldn’t be what it is today “We served ity of reviews over a period of Andoni Luis Aduriz claims attempting to come up with without these connections.” them a white 12 months. his flair comes not from new dishes.

Mugaritz is ranked No. 7 on Malaga Botani, The top ten featured two from cookbooks but science and He said: “Working with The World’s 50 Best Reswhich they Spain and France, three from theatre. creative people makes you taurants list by Restaurant loved,” said the UK, and one from Italy, In fact the 45-year-old more creative. It is always Magazine.

Curry. the US and Brazil.

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A PAIR of expat hypnotherapists have published a new book for food-loving cruisegoers who don’t want to pile on the pounds during their dream voyage.

Written by Martin and Marion Shirran from Fuengirola, Cruise Yourself Slim is a guide to navigating the temptation of non-stop food and drink that is a highlight of most modern cruises.

Avid cruisers themselves, their own survey revealed that the average passenger disembarks with an extra 4lbs of excess body baggage when they return to dry land.

No strangers to diet book publishing, the Shirrans have also authored Gastric Mind Band and Pause Button Therapy, based on their own weight loss therapies.

Their work has been featured in mainstream media around the world, including Vogue, Marie Claire, The Times, the Daily Mail and the Daily Telegraph.

They both hold Diplomas in Clinical Hypnosis and are certified and registered with the American Board and British Institutes of Hypnotherapy.

Don’t miss our next issue for an excerpt from their latest work.

42

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42

Food, drink & travel

October 26th - November 8th 2016

The secret is out!

Dining Secrets of Andalucia is back and it’s bigger and better than ever

T

oca s b n I iew rev

The Olive Press Insider’s Guide

5 Top s list

FOR INCISIVE

HE most comprehensive and incisive guide to dining in Andalucia has had a makeover.

Dining Secrets of Andalucia is now a foodie’s delight after relaunching its website with a fresh sprinkling of up-to-date content and lots more restaurants.

Spending the last year updating the site, writing new reviews and uploading food and drink news and features, the state-of-the-art website is now ready to be unveiled.

With reviews of the best restaurants in each of Andalucia’s eight provinces, Dining Secrets of Andalucia is a must for any restaurant-lover living in or visiting the region.

ORIGINAL RESTAURANT REVIEWS With an interactive map - perfect for phones and tablets - finding the perfect place to chow down has never been so easy.

The site also includes several Top 5 lists ranging from best terraces in Andalucia to most romantic spots.

And Dining Secrets also wants to know what its readers think: with a new review system added to each restaurant featured.

To take a look by visiting www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com In the run up to Christmas, the Olive Press will be featuring the best restaurant reviews from the site.

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

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Jamie Oliver was panned on Twitter for his cheeky chorizo twist on Spain’s national dish but the Olive Press was there in 2009 when an entire village couldn’t get enough of his paella

FOO D, DRIN K & TRAVEL www.theolivepress.es

WITH DINING SECRETS OF

Footballer’s feast THE days of professional footballers piling on the post-season, smoking pounds at half time and sinking a skinful of pints the night before a big are undoubtedly in the past.game However, Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas has shown that the current crop of elite athletes are not so obsessed with diet they can’t enjoy a treat their every now and then.

Uploading his post-match meal to Snapchat following Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Hull, Fabregas’ feast included two pizzas, two milkshakes and three different types of cake.

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

ANDALUCI A.COM

Not pucker!

PUCKER TV chef Jamie Oliver has received a rage of abuse for his bartake on paella.

The Essex-man hounded on Twitter was uploading a photo ofafter the classic rice dish featuring chorizo (a cardinal sin in Spain). star of 30 Minute One Twitter user Meals drew a comparison even tweeted: “Good Spanish befood doesn’t get much tween Oliver’s dish betand ter than paella. My renowned botched fresco version combines chicken thighs artwork Ecce Homo. and chorizo.”

Proud of his work, the But Twitter users quick-

Jamie Oliver’s paella recipe sparks online backlash ...

...but he had no problem

ly reacted by satirically tweeting fish and chips recipes using aubergines, duck, beef and ravioli.

Others were more sinister, likening Oliver to a ‘food terrorist’ and telling him ‘stick to chicken nuggets’.to Less venomous commenters said that while the inclusion of chorizo meant the recipe could not be described as paella, qualified as ‘rice and it still stuff’.

Oliver is yet to respond the tirade of criticism. to

EATING a Med diet makes less likely to suffer heart you lems. A diet rich in freshprobvegetables, olive oil and fish, nuts helps people live for longer, found a Cambridge University study. The study of 24,000 Brits found that those who the diet typically eaten stuck to countries were 16% lessin Med to develop cardiovascular likely PREP: Sticking probto the job lems.

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AMIE may be copping some stick nowadays but there weren’t too many Spaniards complaining when 500 villagers tucked into the British paella in the Serrania dechef’s Ronda in 2009.

Taking orders from local cook Salvador Garcia Dominguez, Oliver cooked up a storm and was even there at midnight to serve up his dish in the village of Benaojan.

According to Garcia, was a good learner.Jamie “He worked hard and learned fast,” he said.

In good humour, Oliver told the Olive Press: “It later took almost four hours to and just five minutes cook to eat and not a word of thanks in sight.

“It was a bit like being stuck in the middle of a dole queue!” he quipped.

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In Benaojan

PUTTING COOL IN THE KITCHEN

SPORTING a mohawk, earrings and covered head-to-toe in tattoos, David Muñoz is set become the coolest to chef in London.

Launching StreetXO in Mayfair this November, Muñoz will be splitting his time between land and his threeEngMichelin-starred DiverXO restaurant in Madrid.

Inspired by street food, his menu will regularly change and will feature dishes from Spain, Asia,

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Next, add the onions, peppers, meat, rice and water and finally throw in the prawns

10 steps to perfect paella

W

HILE celebrity chef Jamie Oliver is still smarting from a vicious Twitter attack served up by paella purists, 500 residents of a remote Andalucian village can testify that his rice dish is riquisimo – the best!

The Naked Chef was branded a ‘food terrorist’ for his chorizo-laden paella tweet, which drew comparisons to Spain’s infamous botched fresco.

But his rice recipe has previously gone down a treat in the Ronda mountain pueblo of Benaojan – even when the heat was on at his most challenging cookout ever.

Rustling up lunch for a crowd of 500 on a sizzling 35C summer day, he needed all his culinary skills and patience.

But he took it coolly with a pinch of salt, laughing and joking through the four-hour challenge in 2009.

Working with a three metre frying pan, which had to be delivered by a lorry, he added 50kg of rice, 12kg of red peppers, 10kg of onions, 15kg of tomatoes, 12kg of prawns and 25kg of chicken. And no chorizo, of course ...

The result was one of the biggest – and tastiest – paellas Spain has ever seen.

The event was for a TV programme Oliver has been making on southern Spain and hundreds of villagers turned out in force with banners to support him.

Oliver even went behind the cameras to ensure the show - entitled Jamie in Andalucia - ran to plan.

So to his Twitter detractors who say Oliver should ‘stick to chicken nuggets’, 500 fans who tried his paella in Spain would simply quote a line from another famous Oliver - Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist – and ask for more.

Pictures by: JON CLARKE

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Firstly build a fire and give it a good blow to get it going

South America and London.

The restaurant’s focal point will be a central open kitchen where chefs can interact directly with diners.

“Having spent five years working in restaurants like Nobu and Hakkasan, I feel like London is my second home,” he said.

“I’m excited to bring a cooking style that really evolved in I’ve Madrid to London.”

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Give it a good stir ‘picador-style’, of course

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Do a pinch of what you’re paid for ie talk to the camera

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GOLF

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Birdies flying high THE ladies team from the UK’s Leigh Golf Club have booked a place in a major final in Andalucia.

The team of six, representing the Warrington club, will play at the El Rompido Golf Course in Huelva in the final of the Mail on Sunday National Golf Club Classic.

The tournament is an amateur club

ON A ROLL: The Leigh girls heading to Spain

Celebs tee off

WINNER: Ciganda

Victory SPAIN’S Carlota Ciganda has earned her first LPGA Tour win in South Korea.

Ciganda beat Alison Lee from the US with a birdie on the first playoff hole to take the LPGA KEB Hana Bank Championship at Sky 72 Golf & Resort’s Ocean Course in Incheon.

She beat out 17 of the world’s top 20 players to claim the title and its €270,000 prize fund.

Ciganda had previously won three times on the Ladies European Tour, but never on the U.S. circuit since her debut in 2012.

knockout competition which sees more than 3,000 clubs enter each year.

Team captain of the Warrington girls Mhairi Ferrol said: “The incredible team spirit and camaraderie has got us to this point. Who knows what we can achieve whilst in Spain.”

Singers, actors and sportsmen take to the greens of the Costa del Sol

TEEING UP: James Nesbitt

Are you ready ?

A HOST of famous faces having been swinging the irons on the Costa del Sol. In the inaugural Ronan Keating Global Gift Golf Challenge, the Boyzone frontman was joined by The Hobbit actor James Nesbitt, ex-professional golfer Michael Campbell and ex-Reading footballer Stephen Hunt.

And while the Boyzone man was concentrating on beating his celebrity challengers on the Estepona Golf course, he said the main aim of the day was to raise money for charity.

“All proceeds from the event will be donated to Cudeca, the Global Gift Foundation and the Marie Keating Foundation as part of the 2016 Ronan Keating Charity Golf Series,” he said.

“It is a great honour to be able to do these events.

“And what an incredible setting to be able to play in.”

After the event, Ronan took to the stage at a packed Gran Melia Don Pepe hotel where he played classic such as ‘Life is a rollercoaster’ and ‘You say it best’.

In the audience were more VIP guests including Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha dixon and TV presenter Olivia Cox.

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DENISE VAN OUTEN has teamed up with a Spanish golf resort in a bid to improve her handicap.

The British TV star has been staying at the Las Colinas resort on the Costa Blanca where she is attempting to complete a round in less than 100 shots.

“I got into golf when I turned 40 and was looking for something to do as a hobby,” said Denise, “I was at Stoke Park hosting the 100-hole golf challenge charity event and some friends who were playing got me to have a go. It was the first time I’d ever played

and literally I was on the green in a pair of Jimmy Choo heels.”

But the 42-year-old says she has well and truly got the golf bug and is determined to improve her game.

She has been back and forth between Kent and the Costa Blanca since May and will return to tee-up again in December.

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-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views

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BARCELONA’S South American stars Neymar and Luis Suarez were left clutching their faces after being struck by objects thrown from the crowd in a La Liga game with Valencia.

Both players went down in the final minutes of the game after Leo Messi scored a stoppage time winner from the penalty spot.

Brazilian Neymar received a cut to his eye after being hit with a bottle cap while Suarez was stuck with a lighter.

Valencia are now facing a hefty fine after a number of crowd incidents were recorded during the fiery 3-2 game.

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Spurious

"You can see a pattern developing - whenever an objective, international, fair tribunal is asked to consider Spain's spurious claims to our sovereignty, or her attempts to stop us participating in international bodies, those objective tribunals tell Spain to go and take a running jump,” he said.

"I think the International Olympic Committee should be ashamed of itself for blocking Gibraltar's application to be a member nation.

"Other overseas territories within the United Kingdom are rightly a part of the IOC. "If a fair and objective international tribunal was allowed to determine our original application to join the IOC, it would and could only reach one conclusion.

"This is the same conclusion which the Court of Arbitration reached in respect of our application to join Fifa."

Gibraltar was accepted into FIFA in July and is currently taking part in its first World Cup qualifying tournament.

Tel: 632 56 33 38 Calle de Sabinillas, Local 22, Urb. El Pilar 29680 Estepona

SPANISH tennis ace Rafa Nadal pic Games short of preparation insists that his career is not over and not fully recovered, despite ending the year with an-MayfairSportsBar but the goal was to other injury. compete and win a The 14-time grand slam cham- medal for Spain.

Tel: 632 56recov33 38 pion has ruled himself out for the “This forced rest of the year in a bid to be fully caused Local me 22, Calleery de has Sabinillas, fit in 2017. since thenEstepona and Urb. pain El Pilar 29680 Nadal, 30, ruled out playing again now I am forced to in 2016, after picking up a wrist stop and start preparing for injury. the 2017 season.”

“I will be back, there is no doubt Nadal pulled out of Wimbledon of that,” Nadal said. “It is no se- with a wrist injury before winning cret that I arrived to the Olym- gold in the mens’ doubles at Rio.

Young bucks

THE International Olympic Committee (IOC) has come under heavy fire from Chief Minister Fabian Picardo.

Fed up with being denied a place in the Olympics, Picardo saidThe that the IOC should Olive Press be ‘ashamed of itself’ for repeatedly Gibraltar TOPblocking for news in Spain! from fielding its own team.

Blaming Spain for abusing its power to block Gibraltar’s bid, Picardo said it was ‘time for the IOC to let us into the long jump and told Spain to take a running jump’.

Spanish footballing body hit with FIFA fine as clubs continue to break transfer rules

THE Spanish FA has been slapped with a hefty fine by FIFA for failing to enforce rules on underaged players.

Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have all been sanctioned by the world footballing body in recent years for illegally signing foreign players under 18.

CAPTION:

The Spanish football federation has until the end of the month to appeal a

Cream of

€250,000 fine in the latest battle with FIFA over under-age transfers.

the crop

ATLETICO MADRID forward Antoine Griezmann has been crowned the best player in Spain.

The pacey Frenchman was named the best player of 2016 in a La Liga ceremony.

Atletico had a lot to celebrate with boss Diego Simeone claiming the gong for best coach, Diego Godin

picked

as best defender and Jan Oblak lauded as the league’s best goalkeeper.

B a r c e l o n a ace Leo Messi was selected as the best forward while Real Madrid captain Luka Modric was named best midfielder.

Team captains from every club in La Liga voted for players in each position.

As well as the fine, the Spanish FA has been told it had six months to clean up its act or face more punishment.

The latest sanctions relate to cases involving teenagers who were signed for Atletico and Real Madrid between 2005 and 2014.

Both clubs are currently serving one year transfer bans after breaking international regulations.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport is set to hear both cases later this year.

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Boxer takes pasting MGM Marbella’s latest marquee signing Paddy Barnes has come under heavy fire for joining the controversial gym.

An Olympic bronze medalist in 2008 and 2012, Barnes joint MGM Marbella after Rio 2016.

However, the gym’s connection to the Kinahan cartel has sparked controversy at home.

In a Sunday World dispatch, crime reporter Nicola Tallant wrote an open letter to Barnes, telling him to ‘face up to reality’.

“Paddy, let me tell you a little bit about MGM,” she writes.

“MGM is to Daniel Kinahan what Atletico Nacional Football Club was to Pablo Escobar.

She continues: “We were so proud of you when you brought home your medals from London. You were a true hero, a guy that all the parents would tell their kids about.

“Do you understand why people are upset? Can you comprehend that your sport is being poisoned?

“Take the blood money if you must. Wear the shirt of the Kinahan Cartel, but don’t try to tell people destroyed by their drugs and their hate that, really, they aren’t a bad bunch.

“And please, Paddy, don’t wear the Tricolour again.”

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Frugal footer MANCHESTER City midfielder Raheem Sterling was spotted on an easyJet flight from Malaga to Manchester after visiting his girlfriend in Marbella.

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Royal visit

QUEEN Letizia of Spain made a formal visit to a baby friendly hospital initiative at the headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva.

Cashing in

AN Essex father is set to receive €280,000 for a rare handeddown Queen Anne Vigo coin which was stolen from Spain by the British in 1702.

Vol. 10 Issue 251

Rubbish container forced open to save man trapped inside A HOMELESS man had to be removed from a bin in Spain after becoming trapped inside.

The 48-year-old Romanian, who lives on the streets in Murcia, had climbed in after mistakenly thinking it contained clothing destined for recycling.

Police were called after his

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October 26th - November 8th 2016

Bin raider

them, a practice that has increased during Spain’s economic crisis.

Crisis

TRAPPED: Man struggles to escape from bin

Ronaldo car selfie mocked by fans CRISTIANO Ronaldo has been mocked by fans after posing like a statue with his new black Lamborghini.

Instagram users were quick to edit the photo, with one placing a rigid Ken

doll next to the Real Madrid star for comparison.

Others dressed him up as Batman and placed him in a box designed to hold dolls.

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SPAIN’S famous one-eyed matador has been gored in the face… again!

Five years after losing his left eye in a horrific goring, Juan Jose Padilla has taken another horn to the face in almost identical circumstances.

Incredibly he took the blow in virtually the same spot in the same bullring in Zaragoza.

Going down on his knees, the ‘Pirate’ - as he is nicknamed, because of his eye patch - attempted to dive out of the cries from inside the bin way as the bull charged towards him. were heard in Vistabella.

He managed to get in de- In an ironic twist of fate, the spite the container’s tilt- damage is not too serious… ing door mechanism to because his eye has already stop people from raiding been removed.

“We just don’t know how he managed to climb in there,” explained a local policeman, who was unable to open the bin and had to call in council workers.

He was freed after half an hour without injury.

An estimate 31% of people in Murcia are at risk of poverty, making it one of the poorest regions in the country.

Nap-flix A STREAMING service aimed at aiding siestas has been invented in Spain.

Napflix promises to bore you to sleep by only streaming the dullest content.

Creators Victor de Tena and Francesc Bonet came up with the idea as a way to treat insomnia.

The content includes twohour lectures from a physics professor explaining the complexities of Einstein and a 54-minute clip of chickens turning on a rotisserie.

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