Olive Press Newspaper - Issue 196

140828_olive_press.pdf

Will it ever rain in Spain again? See Wet, wet, wet...We PRAY! Page 6 See page 8

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olive press DOG FIGHT The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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Let HiFX help you reach your destination. www.hifx.co.uk

Way back?

After a potential sighting, could the ‘La Cala Cougar’ be back in the area?

See Page 5

Way out?

Junta leader Diaz faces resignation calls as corruption in Andalucia flies out of control See Page 10

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Vol. 8 Issue 196 www.theolivepress.es

September 18- October 1 2014

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A battle is being waged between an obsessed animal-lover and a group of former volunteers, who want her rescue centre shut down A WAR of words has broken out over one of the longestrunning animal rescue centres on the coast.

A host of ex-employees, animal charities and a vet have denounced the ‘neglect’ and ‘filthy conditions’ suffered by animals at Kim’s Animal Rescue Centre, in Mijas.

The group insists that ‘numerous’ corners are being cut and pet passports are even missing necessary legal information.

In a series of statements handed to the Olive Press, the group claim the centre’s British expat owners Kim Halliwell and daughter Kelly are keeping dogs, cats and horses in ‘filthy, overcrowded conditions’.

A visit to the centre last week

Thank you Spain!

EXCLUSIVE

By Jacqueline Fanchini and Tom Powell appears to back up these claims, while the Guardia Civil is currently involved in a case involving the mistreatment of horses.

Kim however, insists it is all part of an anonymous ‘hate campaign’ that has been gathering pace for a year.

“I first heard about this campaign against me ten months ago, I don’t understand it,” she said.

“I work 17 hours a day cleaning cages and looking after animals, all because I love them. I have no clothes and I never go out.”

The Mancunian added: “I

DISPUTE: Animal haven or hell? and (inset) owner Kim with dog have saved more than 5,000 animals.”

Her ex-husband Stan, who donated her the land a decade ago, blamed the crisis for her problems.

The former builder, in his 70s, said: “She has just had a tough time with the recession and a lack of much needed help and money.”

However, more than ten previous employees and volun-

Choose your path...

WILL your autumn road trip take you up the mountainous twists and turns of the Casares road for lunch (See Page 21) or a genuine walk on the wild side, to the soon-to-be re-opened Caminito del Rey, at El Chorro (see Page 3)?

DELICIOUS: Casares road is a delight

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INTREPID: Olive Press at Caminito

MAKING PROGRESS: Ashya

EXCLUSIVE

By Imogen Calderwood

teers beg to differ.

Insisting they remain anonymous out of fear of reprisal, they claim something must be ‘urgently done’ to help the animals, currently said to number 80 dogs and 117 cats.

“We have all experienced great distress at the centre and are broken hearted for the animals unfortunate enough to end up in their hands,” said a former volunteer.

“We want to stop Kim from ever being allowed to deal with animals again, and for the truth to come out.”

Another former employee even insisted that the centre had incorrect pet passports.

“Animals were transported illegally due to improper passports and on one occasion several dogs were smuggled into the UK without being checked by the authorities,” said the former live-in volunteer, who resigned in 2011.

The claim appears to be backed up by Jacqui Ross, who runs another centre Last

THE father of brain tumour patient Ashya King has thanked the Olive Press for helping to publicise his son’s plight.

The long-time expat - who fled to Spain with his family to get his son the best treatment possible - said he was ‘overwhelmed’ with all the local support on the Costa del Sol. Speaking outside the Casares home he has owned for 11 years, he revealed he was amazed at the coverage and support.

Talking the day before the family flew from Malaga to Prague so Ashya, 5, could receive proton beam treatment, he said: “Thanks so much for the support.

“We’ve always been very happy in Spain and will definitely be coming back.”

He added that he was a ‘big fan’ of the Olive Press and read it regularly, when living here, between time spent in the UK and abroad in places like Mexico and Haiti.

The family have now asked for wellwishers to send postcards to the family home in Casares del Mar, where they have lived on and off since

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CRIME NEWS

the 18 - October 1 2014 theolive olivepress press--September August 7 - August 20 2014

Rum and coke Heard this one? One councillor, two policeman and three soldiers walk into a bar...or how to run a drugs operation in Spain A TRENDY beach bar on the Costa de la Luz is at the centre of an alleged multi-million euro drug ring including a Guardia Civil officer, a former Socialist councillor and three members of the army.

All of them are part of a huge clampdown, which has seen 56

By Rob Horgan people arrested and 716 kilos of cocaine and nearly four tonnes of hashish seized.

The ringleader, nicknamed El Longui – who owned the bar in the hip resort of Zahara de los Atunes – is said to have contacts on both sides of

HIP: Spain’s Gerard Pique on holiday in Zahara the Straits of Gibraltar.

The trendy businessman who was known locally for organising a string of concerts

SERENE: Beautiful Zahara beach resort was at the centre of drug ring

Gaol hangers

DOZENS of Spanish prisoners are refusing to leave their cells, fearful of not surviving in the outside world.

The lags, who claim that their prisons are the only thing standing between them and homelessness, are pleading to be left to die inside.

However, there are not enough prison officers to look after these prisoners – who are eligible for early release – which is leading to severe overcrowding.

Lawyers representing the prisoners have admitted that they have been told not to ask for bail, because their clients are worried about being homeless.

The prisoners are allowed out during the day to work and reHOME: Behind bars turn at night to sleep in a separate block.

at his bar each summer - is said to have coordinated the shipments of drugs from Morocco to the Zahara area.

Recreational vessels ferried the drugs, under the protection of a local Guardia Civil officer and a local police officer, both allegedly paid by the ring.

Guardia Civil sources involved in the clampdown revealed when ‘there was a lot of surveillance’ the operation would be diverted to the Punta Camrinal military base where three servicemen reportedly unloaded the merchandise.

Almost 30 properties were searched in Cadiz, Sevilla and Valencia. Firearms, €32,000 in cash and more than 100 mobile phones were confiscated by investigators.

An ex-Socialist councillor from Paradas, Sevilla, was arrested and the bar was shut down.

Investigators revealed that the pair had lived lavish lifestyles on the massive profits of their illegal activities.

www.theolivepress.es

British Granny in €125 million Mafia operation A BRITISH grandmother could be jailed for up to ten years over her alleged involvement in a Mafia drugsmuggling operation run out of Spain.

Sheryl Rogers, 46, spent 16 years as the lover of the Mafia boss in charge of a €125 million business smuggling up to six tons of cannabis from Morocco to Italy every month.

Horse-lover Rogers, from Surrey, UK, is accused of helping to launder hundreds of millions of euros in profits from the operation.

She was arrested three years ago in a raid at her former lover Guiseppe Felaco’s home in Tenerife, spending five months in prison before being released on bail.

Felaco - part of a Naples gang, the Nuvoletta family - died shortly after his arrest from cancer, aged 57.

Madrid’s Central Criminal

GRANDMA-FIA: Rogers could face jail-time Court believes Rogers ‘participated actively in financial operations’ to conceal criminal money.

She is set to go on trial later this year alongside 20 other alleged gang members.

She insisted the allegations were ‘daft’, claiming the police ‘got everything wrong’.

“I did not have anything to do with the business,” she said. wouldn’t let me work.”

Ready to ruck

THE Spanish government has splashed out €1 million on anti-riot gear amid fears of an ‘autumn of discontent’.

The interior ministry has snapped up various items from stab-vests to a new truck-mounted water cannon.

Opposition Socialists have compared the anti-riot measures to those imposed during Franco’s dictatorship, with politician Antonio Trevin terming them ‘a return to times that we would rather forget’.

The Spanish branch of Amnesty International said the purchase was a ‘worrying development’, citing negative examples of the use of similar equipment in Greece.

The Spanish government claims it needs the equipment to deal with a series of forthcoming demonstrations including one on the monarchy and another on planned oil drilling off the Canary Islands.

www.theolivepress.es

NEWS

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014 the olive press - August 7 - August 20 2014

‘Cannes’ you believe it?

Antonio Banderas bounces back with new Dutch babe just months after split from Melanie Griffith

PUPPY LOVE: Banderas and new girlfriend Nicole Kempel, first snapped together in Cannes

ANTONIO Banderas has been spotted with a new woman, just months after his divorce from actress Melanie Griffith.

Nicole Kempel, a Dutch investment consultant, has been named as the ‘leggy

blonde’ first seen with the 54-year-old actor in Cannes.

The pair were snapped dancing together in a St Tropez club before heading back to their hotel hand-in-hand.

Now ‘officially an item’ the

THE 110-year-old Caminito del Rey has been a crumbling, dangerous, forbidden walkway for the few decades.

Come next summer, however, the death-defying path could be one of Andalucia’s biggest tourist attractions.

With restoration work 70% complete, it is already clear how the 1.2km cliff-clinging walkway is going to look.

In its new form, wooden panels are being fixed to the cliff face 100m above the river, with hand-rails and glass-bottomed viewing stations still set to go in at various points.

According to staff working for construction company Sando, the project will be finished by December.

“The official opening ceremony is scheduled for January or February 2015, with King Felipe set to open it,” said one worker.

“It is bound to be a massive hit and people will be coming here from all over the world.”

The first three months after opening will be free, but a fee which includes entry to a museum will eventually be levied.

As the infamous Caminito del Rey prepares to reopen as a major Andalucian tourist attraction, the Olive Press set out to investigate the deadly trail

Ibiza’s got Klass

Balearic baby? Stars set to shine

KNOCKED UP?: Tyler

Model behaviour

pair have been discretely dating for at least four weeks.

The couple were first spotted together in May, sparking speculation that Kempel had a hand in ending Banderas’ 19-year relationship.

Rickety road to riches The path was originally constructed in 1905 so that workers at a hydroelectric plant could cross between El Chorro and Gaitanejo Falls.

It stopped being used in the middle of the last century and has continually degraded since, with handrails and steps falling into the reservoir 100 metres below.

It was officially closed in 2001 after a series of fatal accidents.

A ‘rite of passage’ for adrenaline junkies, companies began offering unofficial tours after a video of the walk went viral on YouTube.

The Olive Press was the first paper to reveal that the Cami-

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GLUM: Jaime Winstone UK actress Jaime Winstone seemed entirely unimpressed at the antics of her model friend Lady Mary Charteris on a holiday in Ibiza.

Wearing a rainbow wig, she appeared to shut her eyes when Lady Mary, 24, apparently snogged Dutch model Mila de Wit. The picture was generously put on Instagram by Mila’s fiance Jamie Burke.

Ray Winstone’s daughter has just finished filming movie Love, Rosie, having starred in Made in Dagenham in 2010.

We’re Honored

WALKING THE PLANKS: Deadly walkway is nearly complete nito was to be upgraded as a tourist site as long ago as December 2009.

AN apparently pregnant Liv Tyler has taken her holidays in Spain with Kate Moss.

Rumours about a pregnancy have emerged during her trip with boyfriend Dave Gardner.

The actress, 37, was later spotted leaving her New York apartment holding her ‘rounded’ stomach, adding fuel to the whispers.

Finally in 2011, the Junta and Malaga city council agreed to split restoration costs – esti-

mated at more than €5 million – and commissioned the works.

A HOST of Hollywood stars are set to shine at San Sebastian’s international film festival next week.

Brightest among them are Benicio Del Toro and Denzel Washington who are to be awarded the Donostia prize in recognition of their work and careers.

Viggo Mortensen, John Malkovich, Antonio Banderas, Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Pedro Almodóvar are also set to stroll down the red carpet for the 62nd edition of the event.

EX-BOND girl Honor Blackman has admitted that Spain is her favourite destination in the world.

The 89-year-old actress, best known for her role as Pussy Galore in Goldfinger, has a ‘small place’ here, as well as remembering the country fondly as a filming destination.

Honor made Shalako – a western film set in New Mexico - in Almeria with Sean Connery and Brigitte Bardot in 1968.

“I do love sunshine. When I was married to my second husband, Maurice Kaufman, we used to cover ourselves in oil and turn over as if on a spit. Now I retire to the shade,” she said.

“My favourite type of holiday is a villa with a garden and a swimming pool with my two grown-up children and grandchildren.”

CRAFTSMEN IN PAINT AND PAPER

KLASSY: Myleene

MYLEENE Klass has been showing off her new bikini range while soaking up the rays in Ibiza.

The 36-year-old former Hear’Say member was spotted in a ‘floral bandeau’ bikini, from her Littlewoods range, while on holiday with her two daughters.

Klass will soon be swapping the golden sands for the rainforest for new reality series Singing in the Rainforest, where musicians ditch modern luxuries for a life with isolated tribes.

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NEWS

the - October 1 2014 theolive olivepress press--September August 7 - 18 August 20 2014

www.theolivepress.es

NEWS IN BRIEF

Holy smoke TWO Italian men driving a Vaticanregistered vehicle purchased four kilogrammes of cocaine and 200 grammes of cannabis in Spain before being stopped in France.

Oasis docks THE world’s largest cruise ship – the Oasis of the sea – docked in Malaga as its 6,300 passengers explored the city. This is its first ever European trip.

Museum return THE Museum of Malaga has finally found a new home and will reopen in late 2015 in the old customs building. It once stood where the Picasso museum is now, but was evicted 17 years ago.

Firestoppers MIJAS Town Hall has announced a newly improved fire prevention programme following two fires in less than 24 hours.

BODY: ‘Hatchet’ Kavanagh is wheeled to an ambulance in Elviria

FLASHY: Kavanagh’s car, draped in police tape

BLACK WIDOW POLICE are investigating a mystery woman who they believe lured an Irish gangster to his ‘execution’ in upmarket Elviria.

Gerard ‘Hatchet’ Kavanagh was gunned down in broad daylight outside Harmons Irish bar by masked hitmen in front of dozens of tourists and residents.

Kavanagh’s phone was recovered from the scene and detectives are investigating who called him just minutes before his death.

The 44-year-old ‘drug debt collector’ – dressed in green swimming shorts – had just ordered a drink at the Irish bar when two

Police seek mystery woman who lured Irish gangster to his death in Marbella EXCLUSIVE PICTURE SPECIAL By Imogen Calderwood

balaclava-clad men burst into the busy square.

Kavanagh was shot nine times in the left arm, back and head as he attempted to flee, as stray bullets flew through the crowd of onlookers.

“It caused pandemonium and terror,” said a British expat, 55, who lives in El-

viria and was eating at one of the neighbouring restaurants.

Another British witness, 58, from nearby Calahonda told the Olive Press: “It’s a miracle no one was hurt. There were tourists at all the restaurants in the square and bullets were flying all over the place.”

One stray bullet struck the car of a restaurateur, parked across the square from the gunmen.

The Olive Press was the first and only Englishlanguage newspaper on the scene and witnessed Kavanagh’s body being removed.

The incident is thought to be connected to the shooting of boxer Jamie Moore in Estepona last month.

He had been leaving Irish gangster Christy Kinahan’s home, near Tikitano restaurant, and is thought to have been shot in a case of mistaken identity.

However, both shootings are believed to be linked to a drug war between the Kinahan gang and possibly Russian gangs.

GUNSHOT: Bullet hole in a neighbouring restaurateur’s car

Kinahan’s son Daniel has now asked a Spanish court to provide him with armed police protection as he fears for his life.

His father is currently in prison in Spain awaiting trial for gangland activity.

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NEWS

Return of the cat news 3

- Issue 33

pillos time in Cam back: this The black cat’s

- Western Edition

gar La Cala couta ste develops aegra for Pato N

the olive press

Club Axarquia scrums down

ment is A RUGBY tourna Velez Malbeing held in d. aga next weeken is now The club, which Englishman coached by s, will be Peter Robert teams from taking on Gibraltar Barcelona, Motril. and at Velez Taking place Fernando Malaga’s stadium, Ruiz Hierro ia, as the Club Axarqu , wels team is known new visitor comes any or spectators. which team, the The years ago has denounced on his farm, Guardia Civil. launched twoplayers, is attack to the with just 12 Andalucia a couple of his TANA He revealed howseen the animal now in the

By MAIA CAYE g teams had es employe a league, playin incident in earis clearly not da, Malag a week after theit fled after they THE La Cala cougar like Grana g for a meal.

“But April. travellin ly of Jaen. was scared and at it,” he said. d wild cat that gone from The celebrate in La Cala a year shoutednow applied to Campillos “We have strength and is in He has first spotted the anima. “It strength to as the Cortes tly turned up wild town hall to shoot ago has apparen s to have a large clubs such and Ronda very dangerou Campillos.

Wild Boars springing the Olive Press, this roaming around.”

As reported bySLOWLY moving cat like , the Guardia Civil’s Tortugas arethe place,” he has been now the “panther- Sepronaarm, insist the attack was up all over s. by a pack inland, and has been accused wildlife been have Robert to sayd more likely influence like” feline a dozen Iberican dogs.

“The English fact of killing over area, known as El of wild Spain is now based on the in rugby in the national The theory is were killed pigs in a hilly huge with his deputy that the animals caused by a classic Canuelo. bite marks told the Olive being eaten, coach and these huge The pig farmeranimal had been withoutan attack by dogs. men, altak- INJURY: Were sign of both English Press that the Cougar? of the playGary Jacks of his staff. hall has also been the La Cala though a lot h. . cat seen by a numbershiny hair and The town British oil worker attack seriously had seen the ers are Spanis “He’s black withmoves quickly,” ing the Jesus Galeote organised a larger than a normal cat.” seen told us how he his home at the to see a lo“It is great is very agile and Garcia Valde- Mayorwith a number of council- He had previously been and three times near Gorda near Allike the Olive hunt attack. paper in October the Sierra of the same cal explained Ramon foot the after Alhaurin in days behind it readthat above bigcasas, adding also injured nine lors somereported in the Olive before that a number ofseen in haurin.

Press getting a and very scary.

As we attack he had all.” us he had been estate “He was big Great Dane with a last spotted with takes told was ers he ment del Muerto than our other animals. significantly in- Press,in the hills near Monda.

The tourna on May the Majadilla and further along ger black tail.”

“They were very gashes to skin,” mate Malcolm Platt long place at 4pm La Cala Stable ownerwere two of them above jured, with huge 10.

Mijas. sessions 300 said: “There or five times near he said.

Training at the same who has over pigs and they were four The farmer, place Negra’ take ‘Pato a week on of the so-called ground twice and ThursTuesdays . days at 8.30pm interested Anyone Peter Robcan call 389 or erts on 951321 679313215.

ie Spain is food ficial! heaven... of

places, while gone up four up two. in 2002. has moved won the award garde is Arzak tz chef Andoni Luis Mugari Adria have a reputaking of avanteTHEY might for providing The firmly established at the Aduriz – another . impressed tion abroad platos combi- now e of haute cuisine protege – really have pinnacl an cheese shaped the 20 judges this year. cold soup and some the Spanish Parmes nados, but ti and carrots In total Spain has in the the world’s like spaghet ants among just been voted seven restaur like foam are only by has served cooks.

Adria pipped best 50, which the perhaps, Spain the dishes in his workshop Top with ten and Incredibly ants in the ed ion- France, even concoct has more restaur have revolut for US with eight. than which Ten and n, editor of world Top reputation Paul Wootto magazine, at ised Spain’s France.

Restaurant . of El Bulli such an With the trio and Mugaritz cuisine for half of the year said: “Adria offers exan Closed dinary eating skills, experts number one, in San Sebasti to perfect hised his cooking extraor e in his restaurant and Arzak and eighth compar . perienc is also important have have innovation of Picasso coming in fourththey and what the sete that his for- is the service and respectively, Gallic flair with to the friend It is no surpris notch. and top brushed off tice are to mer appren at the ting is very close be a shrug.

Blumenthal, year in a row r and it will came in a “Heston It is the third in Catalonia, Heston him howeveto see if he topDuck in Bray, that El Bulli, top in the poll Fat second in the list.

- interesting next year.” has come out definitive Res- closeperhaps, more impres his mentor tz has ples But FerMugari by the UK’s ne. Chef Spain’s taurant magazi d left) also sively, ran Adria (picture

Could a sighting in Mijas and tracks in Marbella spell the comeback of the celebrated ‘La Cala cougar’?

FILL IT UP

WHENEVER YOU WANT!

Exclusive by Rob Horgan IT has been a few years but the ‘La Cala cougar’ could be back on the prowl.

In the most exciting comeback since Take That, two Olive Press readers claim to have evidence that the big cat might be back.

First spotted by an eagle-eyed reader in October 2007, the black panther was caught on camera a year later in Mijas Costa before going off-radar.

Now though, the beast may be back after cat-lover Marion Lancaster spotted the animal while on holiday in Mijas.

“I was not frightened at the time. But when I got home and researched the cat I realised I should have been very, very frightened,” she explained.

“It definitely wasn’t a cat. I had a very big cat for 15 years and people often remarked on his size.

“This was definitely differ-

ON THE PROWL: Is the La Cala Cougar back?

EAGLE-EYED: Marion spotted the ‘beast’ in Mijas

ent.”

The Londoner, 71, came into contact with the feline while staying at Mijas’ Urbanisation Dona Pilar.

She bravely stalked the cat to within 10 metres before it ‘padded off into the country-

Classy and cold BIT CHILLY: Sarah

INTRODUCING OUR NEW PAY AS YOU GO PLANS:

HEAD of Olive Press classified sales, Sarah Adams, found herself the victim of fundraising craze the Ice Bucket Challenge.

With a glass of bubbly in hand, Sarah completed the charity challenge – to raise funds for the ALS Association – with more class than most.

side towards the hills in the distance’.

She continued: “It came out of nowhere as if being chased and then it just stopped,” she said.

“At first I thought it was a ‘normal’ cat but I soon re-` alised it was a heavy animal, with strong legs, much largerj than I first thought. It was thev size of a puma.”

Lancaster described the cat `j as being three times the size jv of a normal cat with patches of brown/ black and yellow/ tan fur, similar to that of `va tortoise shell. `jv Meanwhile another Olive Press reader, living in theh countryside near Elviria, got in touch to tell us he had seen footprints this week.

Bill Weightman said: “I have seen what I think are wildcat footprints. They are 40 to 50mm wide with four toe prints clearly showing.”

Initial reports of the cougar in 2007 and 2008 led to a police search – accompanied by 20 dogs – after a pig farmer reported more than 12 of his pigs had been slain.

Return of the Kings From front page

2003.

The Kings sparked an international manhunt when they removed Ashya from the Southampton General Hospital on August 28, after disagreeing with doctors, and fled to Spain.

As the Olive Press revealed last issue they stopped for various nights in the Axarquia before returning to their long time beachside home in Casares.

Ashya meanwhile has received the first of 30 sessions of treatment in Prague.

Under a general anaesthetic, he is being placed in a special plastic mould to keep him still, while his brain and spine are irradiated with protons.

According to sources at the clinic, the first day of therapy went according to plan and Ashya’s spirits are ‘improving daily’.

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the olive press - September - October 1 2014 the olive press - August 7 18 - August 20 2014

OPINION Animal rescue crisis

THERE is no easy answer to the questions being raised about Kim’s Animal Rescue Centre.

And the Olive Press does not take lightly to reporting on it.

On one side are the people who claim to have witnessed mistreatment yet are not willing to stand up publicly, for whatever reason.

On the other, are the passionate friends and supporters of Kim and her work, who would give everything to defend her reputation.

But the important thing here is not the so-called ‘hate campaign’ or allegations of cruelty, it is the 200-odd animals.

In the words of one respected local vet the centre has ‘’simply ‘got out of the control’. It is clearly too much for one, undoubtedly passionate, woman to cope with.

Whether it is more funding, an overhaul or re-homing, the animals involved need to be the priority, not the people.

The Olive Press is giving its full support to whatever is now deemed best for the animals.

Caminito del stay WITH work set to be completed on the Caminito del Rey as early as this year, thrill seekers will be booking their tickets for the tiny village of El Chorro.

This presents one big problem… where are they all going to go? And how are they going to get there?

In its current state El Chorro has little space for tourists to stay, let alone places for day-trippers to park their cars.

As the Caminito is sure to become one of Andalucia’s top tourist spots the tiny village could quickly descend into chaos. Some urgent planning is needed.

Endemic and growing

CORRUPTION is all too rapidly eating away at Andalucia from the inside out.

It is hardly a surprise that so little gets done when the majority of public officials are apparently more concerned with siphoning off public funds than they are with serving their people.

Don’t take it from us… take it from the Supreme Court, which has confirmed nearly a million cases of corruption in Andalucia alone in 2013.

That is up 7% on the previous year.

Is it any wonder the region is grinding to a halt when its own high court says the issue of corruption is actually ‘too complex’ and ‘too endemic’ to even begin to solve it.

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The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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Tel: 951127006 / 665 798 618 (admin/editorial/sales/advertising) Accounts: 658 750 424 Sales: 655 825 683

or admin@theolivepress.es or sales@theolivepress.es 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.

Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 Urb Casares del Sol, bloque 21, portal 70, bajo b, Casares 29690, Malaga Printed by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Reporters: Newsdesk Newsdesk@theolivepress.es Giles Brown Giles@theolivepress.es Tom Powell Tom@theolivepress.es Imogen Calderwood Imogen@theolivepress.es

Rob Horgan Rob@theolivepress.es Jacqueline Fanchini Jacqueline@theolivepress.es Admin / Distribution / Accounts: Anna Cockell 951127006 accounts@theolivepress.es admin@theolivepress.es SALES TEAM: Stephen Shutes 671 834 479 Classified Sarah Adams 655825683 Axarquia Charlie Bamber 661 452 180 Cadiz Elizabeth Gould 683 337 342

FEATURE

www.theolivepress.es

Wet, wet, wet After the driest summer in over a century, weathermen forecast that the rain in Spain will soon be falling although mainly on the coast, not the plain, writes Rob Horgan

S

PAIN is gasping from than 1,500 secondary school the worst spring and students have protested as summer drought in 157 classroom temperatures reach years. an excruciating 45 degrees.

Precipitation has been so And Malaga has not escaped scarce in southern Spain with temperatures at recordthat people are wondering if breaking levels – an average of the heavens are operating a 35 degrees for first half of Sepclosed-shop policy and tember – eight degrees will never open higher than the again. month’s expected Olive oil productemperature. tion is down, It is so dry DRYING OUT: Istan resevoir is emptying whilst (inset) last wildlife parks inland that are seeing Northern Spain has seen its is welcomed, there is a serious Grazalema, in locals have their bird fair share of thunder and light- threat of flash flooding as the the Cadiz Province, been bracpopulaning this September, with the parched earth may not be able is famous for receiving ing themtions deBasque city of San Sebastian to absorb the quantity of water. the most rainfall in the Ibeselves for crease and experiencing the most spec- Although tourists and resident rian Peninsula, with up to a spate of secondary tacular of storms and Alberto sun-worshippers have revelled 2000mm of rain each year, forest fires, school stuContador’s victory at the Vuelta in the prolonged heatwave, par ticularly despite it seeing nearly dents are rea Espana hit by torrential down- Spain’s olive farmers have had as it seems 300 days of sun. fusing to work pours in Santiago this week- to watch their crops wilt and apparent that their profits shrivel in the arid in the soaring end. there are a numtemperatures.

But now meteorologists are conditions. ber of arsonists on And it gets a whole lot predicting similar conditions Andalucia’s olive harvest is the loose. worse in Alicante, which has for the rest of Andalucia, with predicted to be down 40% on But now Spain’s weathermen seen the worst rainfall figures a storm system pushing its way last year’s 1.77 million-tonne are offering a drop of hope... in Spain this year and has from the Atlantic into southern yield unless the rains come they are forecasting wetter soon and the grape harvest is been labelled the driest popuSpain. weather over the next few lated place on earth.

Although the prospect of rain equally grim. weeks.

However, farmers have warned With less than 100 litres of that too much rain could be rain per square-metre falling worse than none at all, due to in the last year (the average is Rainfall August 2014 the damage caused to crops by 336) the area is only beaten flash flooding. by a few places including the Oddly, it is not all doom and Atacama desert in Chile, Death gloom, with courgette farmers Valley and the Sahara. in Almeria and mango growSeeing its lowest rainfall levels ers in Malaga rejoicing, as the since 1857, it is little surprise warm, dry weather has sped up that most living organisms are Wettest the growing process. dying, including the most hardy One courgette plantation in of almond trees, with 180,000 Normal Mojonera is planning to extragically dying this year alone. pand production by 25% while “This is the worst summer of the mango harvest in Axarquia my life,” says José María GarDriest is expected to surpass 20,000 cía, who works at the Santa Fe tonnes for the first time ever. wetlands, a privately owned Another impact has been on nature reserve on the outskirts the local bird population. of Santa Pola. “The pools are While European tourists have almost empty now, and the flocked to southern Spain in IN THE RED: Record rainfall low drought is ruining the water.” record numbers, our feathered Meanwhile in Valencia, more friends have flown off in the opposite direction as their water supplies diminish.

Huelva’s Donana National Park - which has seen excessive temperatures all summer ANDALUCIA residents should prepare to get Andalucia’s yearly average temperature is 19 de- - has seen its avian population even hotter under the collar than they already grees Celsius and the report suggests that is set decrease by over 50% this year are, as climate experts are forecasting spiralling to rise by up to another sizzling four degrees. as birds search for wetter cliThe aim of the long-term forecast is to predict hu- mates. temperatures in years to come.

A long-term weather projection by the Intergov- man activity in order to plan future water supply Autumn and winter rains ernmental Panel for Climate Change predicts and agricultural production. should see the birds return to a 3.9% average temperature increase over the With the region set to become increasingly arid, a the area, but the longer the next century, together with an alarming 26% de- large-scale agricultural shift will most likely follow drought goes on, the less likely at some point in the next 100 years. crease in the amount of rainfall. that becomes.

DID YOU KNOW?

A fiery future

HOT AND DRY: Andalucia’s current spread of rainfall and temperature

7

FEATURE

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t … we PRAY! Water waste

winter

Tale of two countries

WHEN it comes to climate, Spain is largely divided… and the old adage ‘it’s grim up north’ holds true.

The country is split in half - weather-wise - by the Cantabrian Mountains, which separate the country into two clear climatic zones, with the cooler rainy Spain to the north and warmer dry section to the south.

In the north-west corner of the country, Galicia averages over 1000 mm of rainfall a year spread out over 131 days.

Meanwhile the city of Almeria in the opposite corner averages a third of the number of rainy days with only 220 mm of rain falling across 40 days.

Despite the drought in the south and west, the Galician city of Santiago saw rain for the first 41 days of 2014 - making it the wettest start to a year on record.

In contrast, Sevilla averages 38 degrees in August and rarely dips below 30 in summer.

Central areas such as Madrid and Valladolid see the biggest jumps in temperature, rocketing up into the mid 30s for July and August and then dipping down to single figures for the winter chill.

It is the same in some Andalucian towns like Ronda or Granada, which can often see temperatures soaring into the 40s in summer, and easily dropping to minus 10 or more in winter.

Despite the difference in conditions, the weather debate

RESIDENTS of two towns in Malaga may have to give the ice-bucket challenge a miss, as their town halls are set to fine people who abuse public water.

The sunscorched towns of Villanueva del Rosario and Villanueva del Trabuco have introduced measures to safeguard dwindling water supplies.

Misuse of water includes watering gardens or roads, fill-

ing private swimming pools, washing cars (except by licensed companies) and topping up water tanks or ponds (except those used for community services).

Guilty water wasters could be fined up to €3,000. Yet figures suggest that up to 50% of the water supply is being ‘lost’ through leakage, due to the age of the towns’ ancient water pipes.

runs throughout the north and south. While people of the south cry out for much needed showers, their northern counterparts plead with the heav-

ens for some respite.

As autumn approaches both north and south may soon be treated to somewhat ‘British’ conditions.

SEVILLA is traditionally Spain's hottest city, seeing average temperatures rocket up to 38 degrees Celsius in August and rarely dip below 30 throughout the summer. Madrid and

Valladolid see the biggest jump in temperature rocketing up into the 30s for July and August, before dipping down to single figures for the winter chill.

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the olive press - August 7 - August 20 2014

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SPECIAL FEATURE

the - October 1 2014 theolive olivepress press--September August 7 - 18 August 20 2014

HE Olive Press really is different.

Born to represent its community, it was set up by a former Daily Mail journalist sick of the bland, turgid English press on offer in southern Spain.

With a team of young, hungry journalists, all trained at the UK’s top NCTJ training centre, News Associates, we do anything but simply translate Spanish news and regurgitate turgid press releases.

Our remit, in fact, is to investigate and report on the stories expat readers really care about.

The Olive Press is the definitive voice for the Costa del Sol’s burgeoning expat population be it British, Irish or Dutch - and sets out to campaign on their behalf, goes out to meet them and listens to their concerns.

Yes, plenty of them are awkward and controversial, but we are not scared to tackle them.

Take, for instance, our current ‘Smash the spiking’ campaign, supported by the Guardian but criticised by Marbella Town Hall, which denies the problem even exists.

It does… and we will continue shining a light on this horrendous, cowardly crime.

After our coverage of a campaign to end pony carousels in Mijas, town hall officials contacted us to say they would be banned immediately.

Meanwhile our continual exposure of the excesses of corruption in Andalucia… and the appalling treatment of protected green spaces (the Algarrobico hotel, Tarifa’s Valdevaqueros beach and Los Merinos in Ronda etc.), has definitely galvanised its opponents.

Moreover, there is a reason the Daily Mail or the Sun or Times contacts the Olive Press when

www.theolivepress.es

Your REAL community newspaper… and here is why:

NEWSDESK: From left Rob Horgan, Jon Clarke, Jacqueline Fanchini, James Partington, Tom Powell and Imogen Calderwood

The Olive Press counts on eight trained journalists - a number former Fleet Street hands - and does not simply translate stories, kow tow to town halls and offer long boring features on flowers they need a reporter in Magaluf, someone on the Gibraltar border or a spare hand to ask some tricky questions in Mijas.

Regularly appearing in documentaries, programmes on Spain and in articles on the region, our reporters (mostly) know what they are talking about.

Much of our exclusive Olive Press Ashya King investigation and pictures made it into the English national newspapers.

Again, thanks to our contacts, we were also at the crime scene an hour after Gerald ‘Hatchet' Kavanagh was slain in Marbella (see page 4), producing a front page story for the Irish Sun. And who could forget the coast’s perennial ‘baddie’, international con-man Sir Nigel Goldman? He thought he could escape his debts and the

people he conned on the coast, change his name to ‘Howard Del Monte’ and hide out in a quaint Berkshire village.

Not so fast, Mr Del Monte. We found you… and put your name in no less than six National newspapers.

Despite your sickening threats, we will continue to expose you and your ilk from getting away with these sorts of cowardly crimes.

Thanks to our current team of young and energetic reporters we are able to get out and cover the coast; this issue to the opening of restaurant Petit Bistro, to visit the soon-to-be-finished Caminito del Rey and to investigate a heavily criticised animal shelter.

Yes, we are out and about and here to stay. Give us a call or send us an email to newsdesk@theolivepress.es

A MESSAGE TO ADVERTISERS WITH the newspaper so keenly read and anticipated each fortnight, it means that your advert and association with the Olive Press brings immediate and positive results.

As we keep the ratio of editorial to advertising at around 50/50, you don’t have to pay for a full page, as you would do in some of our rivals, with smaller ads working just as well.

Taking this smaller size, alongside a series of incisive, interesting stories means the reader takes in and considers your offering for longer… and with more seriousness.

Aside from this you will be associating with a business that invests in its editorial content and works hard to promote the best of the coast.

Best of all, we work hard to look after our advertisers and a string of testimonials are proof of this.

With 35,000 printed copies each issue and between 60,000 and 80,000 read online, you can be certain of good exposure.

Please give us a call on 951 127 006 or 665 798 618 to help you get the best for your business.

INTRODUCING OUR TEAM Jon Clarke - editor London-raised Jon studied ‘Up north’ in Manchester, before spending many eventful years at the Daily Mail and the Mail on Sunday. In 2001, he moved to Andalucia and launched the Olive Press, shortly after marrying his wife Gabriella, an artist.

Tom Powell - journalist Born and bred in Reading, Tom studied English Literature at the University of Bristol. A keen Reading FC supporter, he has travelled in Africa, South America and Europe, loves hiking, sports and bird-watching.

Imogen Calderwood journalist Immi was an actor before spending a year in Australia and making the switch to journalism. She studied English Literature and Theatre at the University of Warwick and is keen on arts and crafts.

Rob Horgan - journalist Former London squash champion, Rob moved up North to study English Literature in Hull, financing himself by working in

a pea factory. After a Masters on robots in fiction, he sought a job as a journalist.

team, having moved to Spain at the age of five. He loves carpentry and snorkelling.

Jacqueline Fanchini journalist

Karl Smallman – web manager

The fact she speaks nine languages gives away her international upbringing. Born in California, raised in Belgium and schooled in England, she has a degree in Japanese studies, and has also completed a Masters in journalism at Sussex. She loves cooking and traveling.

Award-winning photographer in England for 25 years, Karl moved to Ronda a decade ago, where he has since honed his skills as the Olive Press webmaster among other things.

James Partington - designer Originally from Wales, James is the most bona fide expat on the

Clive Jacques – consultant Veteran journalist Clive worked for the Daily Mail in London before working as a journalist in five countries and as editor of 29 publications in Asia and Europe.

HALF A MILLION VISITORS A MONTH CANNOT BE WRONG! The Olive Press website is getting a staggering 500,000 views a month.

The half a million pages are being read by around 140,000 ‘unique’ visitors each month.

With five online reporters now working around the clock to bring readers breaking news from around Spain, the website is in better shape than ever.

The site - in the world’s top 100,000 websites - is by far the biggest and most popular for daily English news in Spain.

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OLIVE PRESS – 105mm x 256mm – Colour

18th September

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The PP’s controversial abortion reforms are set to be abandoned

News

9

the olivethe press - September 18 - October 1 2014 olive press - August 7 - August 20 2014

WINNERS: Protestors, for now

By Imogen Calderwood CONTROVERSIAL plans to drastically limit access to abortion in Spain could be abandoned by the government due to their unpopularity.

The plans – proposed by Mariano Rajoy’s ruling PP in December – would make abortion illegal except for risk of health to the mother, if the foetus is severely deformed or if the pregnancy is the result of rape.

Parliament was set to vote on the new legislation by the end of July, but it was suspended until this Autumn.

Now however two sources from the PP have admitted that the vote may be postponed, at least until after the election.

“There is no consensus on the project,” one told El Mundo, adding that it was a mistake

Abort the reforms for the PP to have introduced a proposal that pitted Spain’s church against the majority of the public.

Another source admitted that the U-turn was motivated by

What a brain wave!

IN a giant leap for mankind, two men have communicated telepathically on two different continents.

The two men - a Spaniard and a Frenchman - were able to exchange the words ‘hola’ and ‘ciao’ through the power of thought alone.

In an experiment that had only previously been dreamt up in the realms of science fiction, Dr Michel Berg at the University of Strasbourg in France sent a message to Spaniard Dr Alejandro Riera, sat 7,000 km away in the Indian city of Kerala.

The experiment known to professionals as ‘mind-to-mind technological communication’ or more commonly as ‘telepathy’ has stunned the world’s scientific community.

It is hoped that telepathy can be developed for soldiers to communicate through headsets, or to develop prosthetic limbs that can be controlled by thought.

electoral concerns, with 2015 municipal, regional and general elections drawing closer.

Since the introduction of the proposals they have been met with severe opposition, with up to 80% of the public against the changes, according to polls.

Governments in Andalucia, the Basque Country and Catalunya publicly spoke out against the proposals in the weeks following the announcement.

Asturias and the Canary Islands followed suit, branding the reforms ‘regressive’ and ‘an incomprehensible step backwards’.

Protests were sparked across Spain, in Malaga, Bilbao and Barcelona, while thousands gathered in Madrid to burn an effigy of Minister of Justice Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon, the man behind the reforms.

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18 - October 1 2014 10 the olive olive press press -- September August 7 - August 20 2014 10 the

‘Corruption is endemic, up and impossible to tackle’ CORRUPTION remains rife in Andalucia with the Supreme Court admitting cases are too numerous and serious’ to deal with.

Despite an ongoing crackdown on the region’s infamously corrupt politicians, cases of political and financial corruption have actually risen by 7% this year.

An investigation by the Supreme Court (TSJA) recorded an astounding 988,395 ongoing criminal cases linked to corruption.

The court insisted that the fight against political corruption remains ‘a growing concern’, and it is being swamped by the complexity of investigations.

Likening it to organised crime, it says its depth is not sufficiently known or understood to tackle the problem head on.

“Essential information such as the amount of assets that have been acquired or recovered needs to be made available to the public,” states the report.

NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

She must resign!

Junta boss faces resignation calls after new revelations in ‘€3.8 billion’ bogus training scheme fraud come to light

JUNTA boss Susana Diaz is facing resignation calls after new revelations emerged in a ‘€3.8 billion euro’ bogus training course scandal.

Furious PP members have called for her to step down after the Junta finally confirmed that millions of euros at least - of taxpayers’ money had been syphoned off to a series of training courses for non-existent students.

The fraud – which involved hundreds of professional training courses – saw Junta officials cream off more than €3.8 billion of EU education funding, it has been claimed.

Susana Diaz and her party have been accused of ‘covering up’ or at least turning a blind eye to the accusations, amid demands that she return from her summer holi-

By Jacqueline Fanchini day in Morocco early to face the allegations.

“Someone needs to take responsibility,” insisted Andalucian PP boss Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla.

“Someone needs to stand down, resign, failing to put in sufficient controls, for not having audited public accounts?”

The latest victim in the scandal is former Andalucian tax office chief Angel Ojeda, who is accused by police of illegally obtaining €49.8 million under the scheme.

Spain’s ‘biggest ever fraud case’ - even bigger than the ongoing ERE scandal, also at the Junta - has so far seen 18 companies implicated.

NOT GUILTY: Gordillo

‘Robin Hood’ walks free ESCAPE: Diaz in meeting with Morocco’s King An incredible 70% are believed to have simply been ‘fronts’, while others padded out attendance lists with nonexistent students.

One of these was run by the wife of former deputy leader of the Socialist party in Andalucia, Rafael Velasco, while

‘Socialist leader of Torremolinos took training scheme funds’ THE leader of Torremolinos socialist party is one of the latest politicians to be dragged into the billion euro training course scandal.

Councillor José Ortiz has been grilled over his connection to the fraud by Torremolinos’s mayor, Pedro Fernández Montes.

Ortiz has a 21% stake in Centro Liber de Formación, a company that figures on the list of

those exempt from documenting the use of EU job-training grants from the Junta.

According to El Mundo the company received €23,751 in December 2002, €44,697 in January 2008, and €38,466 in September 2009.

Ortiz defended the ‘absolute normality and legality’ of his actions.

a number, including Grupo Galvez Peluqueros, in Jerez, are also implicated in the ERE scandal.

Many more companies and individuals are expected to be accused in the scam that obtained public funds to teach non-existent students on training courses aimed at the unemployed.

After two years of investigating, the PP party and El Mundo newspaper forced the Junta to publish a list of companies given the money and told they did not need to declare it.

However PP deputy leader, Rafael Salas, added that publishing the lists wasn’t enough and that it was necessary for the ‘black holes’ in them to be explained as well.

THE Andalucian Supreme Court has thrown out a case against Spain’s most famous communist mayor, Sanchez Gordillo.

The mayor of Marinaleda was being investigated over claims he used town hall money to pay for buses to transport members of the Andalucian Workers Union (SAT) to protests.

However, a judge ruled that this did not constitute embezzlement of town hall funds.

The mayor, whose Sevilla town has been described as being a ‘communist utopia’ with nearly zero unemployment, has been a vocal critic of the corruption in Spain and, in particular, in the Junta.

He became famous for his ‘Robin Hood’ style raids on supermarkets, which aimed to redistribute food to poor families.

Axarquia NEWS

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News IN BRIEF

Torrox blaze extinguished A FIRE raging across land near Colina del Sol, Torrox Pueblo was quickly extinguished by firefighters before anyone was hurt.

Cultural week CANILLAS de Albaida is holding a cultural week from October 1-7. Works will be on show at the town hall, Bar Cerezo, Restaurante Antonio, Restaurante La Plaza and Studio Philippa.

Sailors sought FAMILIES of two missing Spanish sailors are appealing for help.

Joaquin Espinosa Ruiz, 24, and Antonio Moyano Jesus Perez, 30, disappeared on June 27.

Call 666 925 262 with information.

OAPrisoner POLICE have charged a 71-yearold woman after the death of her sister, aged 80, in Torre del Mar. The sister had injuries consistant with abuse and reportedly ‘did not die a natural death’.

Powerless!

Popular Nerja restaurant counting the cost of being plunged into darkness at peak time EXCLUSIVE

by Joe Chivers A MUCH-LOVED Nerja restaurant, Fusion Food and Lounge, has been paying the price after its power was suddenly cut off last Friday evening.

The popular eatery was forced to close its doors just before the weekend rush due to the black-out, with total losses thought to exceed €5,000.

After electricity bills had begun spiralling out of control in the previous months, the plug was pulled before they could pay.

Speaking to the Olive Press, co-owner Kim Kurttila estimated a loss of around €5001000 each day since the power cut.

Reputation

“We’ve been struggling, and done our best, and it was really starting to take off,” added Kim. “We don’t know how this will affect us, we don’t want people to think we’re unreliable.”

Since Fusion opened in July 2013, the electricity bill had been around €350 a month.

But after April, the bills have been rapidly increasing, reaching a staggering €789 in August.

Their electricity company Factorenergia demanded

Lost and found, and pregnant A GIRL from Velez-Malaga who was reported missing has returned home 48

Art show

THE fourth annual Axarquia Art Riogordo exhibition will take place October 4-25, at the Riogordo Ethnographic Museum.

Organised by Axarquia Art, the exhibition will feature the work of local artists.

Free entry, with a reception at 8pm, October 4.

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 201411 11

hours later.

Monica Sofia Mendes, aged 15, had been in Algeciras at the property of a friend of her partner, a 25-year-old Romanian national.

She returned with the acquaintance, unharmed but shaken.

Monica announced to her mother that she was pregnant by the older man, also a Velez-Malaga resident.

Police have not revealed whether the man or his friend have been arrested.

BLACK-OUT: Fusion restaurant, now open again, lost thousands of euros in income

€1561 – August and September’s invoices in advance – for the power to be restored. Kim and partner/co-owner Fredrik Kullberg settled the bill immediately but they have only just had their power switched back on this week.

The couple are also worried about the damage to Fusion’s reputation, currently rated 2nd out of 300 restaurants in Nerja on TripAdvisor.

According to an Endesa

worker, it is actually against Spanish law to cut off power on a Friday, as the company cannot then be contacted until after the weekend.

A Factorenergia spokesperson told the Olive Press: “We have no comment, it was the only thing we could do in the situation.”

TV violence

GUARDIA Civil officers investigating a domestic incident in Nerja had a narrow escape when a former US Marine allegedly hurled a 50-inch television at them.

Neighbours reported screams coming from the property and that the 33-year-old man had allegedly struck his pregnant wife.

When the officers asked the ex-soldier to open the door, he appeared on the balcony and threw the television at the officers, causing minor injuries to one.

A Torrox judge placed a restraining order on the man, applying to both his partner and their home.

The ruling comes as a small, but important victory amid an upsurge in domestic violence in Spain.

SONG AND DANCE: The festival in all its glory

Rather moorish KEBABS, belly-dancing and falconry will all be part of the show at the 14th Andalucian Arab Festival in Salares.

The festival – celebrating the Arabic roots of the village – takes place September 20-21.

Moorish dishes, tea and pastries will be served alongside performances of Arabic and Andalucian dancing, falconry and folklore.

A giant paella will be served at midday on Sunday.

12

the olive press - August 7 - August 20 2014

12

NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

Haven or hell?

From front page

Chance Animal Rescue, in Malaga, which recently took two Spanish Greyhounds from Kim’s.

“I can’t find the vet who

signed off on their passports, I’m going to have to order new passports as the information is all incorrect,” she said.

Another rescue centre, CYD Santa Maria, has also de-

FILTHY: Dog’s ear ridden with ticks and (right) horses at Kim’s

‘It made me want to retch’

Jacqueline Fanchini pays a visit to Kim’s Animal Rescue Centre ON the day of my visit the centre resembled a junkyard more than a proper shelter.

Kim’s daughter Kelly immediately started making excuses for the obvious filth, blaming it on the ‘lateness’ of a cleaning lady and her mother being on a dog-rehoming trip to the UK. There was faecal matter everywhere, even streaked on the walls, cat litters were overflowing with dung, puppies were slipping on it, and it reeked of urine. It made me want to retch.

Kelly was talkative, knew the animals’ names and they seemed to have food and water available to them. There were certainly bags of food strewn here and there around the shelter.

I wasn’t shown the bottom shelters, stables, nor the properties at the side of the centre, which are allegedly where poorly animals are kept from prying eyes.

Either way, I would say a lot of work needs to be done here.

nounced Kim to the Guardia Civil and the Ministry of Agriculture over the ‘mistreatment, neglect and starvation of horses’, after rehoming two of them.

While CYD president Concordia Marquez confirmed the case was going ahead, she was unable to discuss it for legal reasons.

Other workers insisted there was a serious lack of medication in the centre.

They also denounced ‘small, filthy cages’, ‘tick-ridden animals’, a lack of ‘fresh air and

sunlight’ and a lack of proper vaccinations.

A vet, who worked with Halliwell for a number of years, up to 2013, said: “It is clear there were far more animals than she had the capacity for.

“Things have got out of hand there. There is room for 25 but she has around 200.

“She did all that she could for the animals, but simply didn’t have the funds for proper hygiene.

“We stopped working together because she couldn’t afford her last bill to me.”

An anonymous ‘hate campaign’ KIM Halliwell claims that many of the attacks are from people who were sacked for not doing their jobs properly and she firmly denies the allegation of falsified passports.

“If it was dirty it was ultimately their fault,” she said. “No animals have ever died from neglect or a lack of medication.”

Meanwhile Laura Ellen, a helper at the centre, told the Olive Press: “She works ridiculously hard but she can’t

manage alone.

“She desperately needs to raise more money but with this hate campaign against her that is so difficult.”

“We want to appeal for help for these animals, not spread anguish and hide behind anonymity,” added Ellen, who has lived in Spain for 11 years.

A spokesperson for Adana animal shelter in Estepona, added: “We have never heard anything bad about Kim’s, all of the centres on the coast are doing a very difficult job in very difficult circumstances.”

www.theolivepress.es

NEWS IN BRIEF Big fleet GIBRALTAR’S government is expanding its marine research programme, granting environmental services to two new vessels to monitor the Straits.

Changing hands GIBRALTAR has a new financial secretary. Following Dilip Dayaram’s retirement, Albert Mena has been given the illustrious task of managing the Rock’s economy.

Fit force POLICE on the Rock will be put through their paces with the launch of a new fitness policy in line with their UK counterparts.

Liz be friends

CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo has called on the Queen to visit the Rock after a 60 year absence.

Picardo made the plea to Her Majesty while addressing 30,000 people during National Day celebrations.

The Chief Minister enlisted the enthusiastic crowd to support the idea.

“If I can’t hear you, they can’t hear you in Buckingham Palace. Gibraltar, do you want the Queen to come back to the Rock?” he asked, as the crowd cheered and clapped in agreement.

“Now there’s a message and a half,” Picardo added.

Earlier this year, the Olive Press revealed that the idea of a Royal visit had been floated during a high level meeting with representatives from the UK government.

Gibraltar NEWS

1,000 ‘Fab’ days in power CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo has celebrated his first 1,000 days in office.

Since coming to power in December 2011, Picardo’s GSLP government claims to have kept 300 promises made in the party’s election manifesto.

“It has been a positive and constructive 1,000 days,” he said. “The government has moved in a fast and responsible manner in order to give what we promised.

“We promised change and we will continue to deliver that change.”

A spokesperson for the government added: “These have been 1,000 days full of energy, passion and sheer hard work during which Gibraltar has been transformed for the better.”

Brand new homes and online interaction with residents, driven by his passion for technology, are just two of the

changes that his government has delivered.

More than 1,000 homes are now at an advanced stage of construction, including housing projects at Mons Calpe Mews and Beach View Terraces.

The largest refurbishment of government homes that Gibraltar has even seen is also currently underway at Glacis, Laguna and Moorish Castle Estates.

ON the Rock September 19, 10.30am

September 20, 10am2pm HARD WORKER: Picardo

Craft and collector’s fair at St Andrew’s Church.

Entrance £1, stalls £10 including table and cloth.

Further info: 54023466.

September 23, 7pm

Meeting for small boat owners at John Mackintosh Hall.

Gibraltar stamp sets world record, while Rock also introduces a new £20 coin as part of its National Day celebrations, writes Jacqueline Fanchini

September 27, 8pm

GIBRALTAR has broken a world record with a new postage stamp.

The Rock’s new £2 stamp has a staggering 2,183 words... the most words ever written on a stamp.

It is part of a set of five commemorating the 75th anniversary of the evacuation of the civilian population of Gibraltar and can only be read with a magnifying glass.

As part of Gibraltar’s Na-

October 1-5

tional Day celebrations, the enclave has also introduced a £20 coin.

The coin (inset) is legal tender and is available from the Treasury on Main Street.

The Rock’s 30,000 inhabitants turned out to celebrate national day.

Casemates Square was a sea of red and white as crowds watched the iconic balloon release and musical acts before a firework display brought things to a bombastic end.

13

Tour of Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. Meet at the George Don Gates, the Alameda, in the botanic gardens. £5 for adults, children free.

Further info: 20041235.

You’re licked!

A night of inspiring songs, in aid of breast cancer support, at John Mackintosh Hall. Tickets £10, available from Waterport Pharmacy, Unit 14, Crown Daisy House, Waterport Terraces.

European Thunder Cat racing championship. Teams already confirmed from UK, France, Germany, Sweden, Norway and Gibraltar.

Further information: www. thundercatracing.com ESSAY: The tiny stamp has 2,183 words on it

Peace offering THE Rock is celebrating its religious freedom with a get together of seven faith groups.

The ‘Get together for peace’ will be held on September 18 at Europa Point, from 8pm.

Free shuttle buses will run from the coach park to and from Europa Point.

Contact Angela Sargent on 00350 56000766 for more info

Ora and Maxi Priest make up for the bandit blues Caught live

by Rob Horgan

W

the olive - September 1820 - October 1 2014 the press olive press - August - September 3 2014

ith Glastonbury, Reading and Benicassim out of the way, the much anticipated Gibraltar music festival took centre stage on the Rock.

Headlined by Irish boy band The Script, the world descended on Victoria Stadium.

With the sun dipping behind the grandstand, Rita Ora took to the stage amid a sea of screaming girls and ogle-eyed lads.

Kicking things off with pulsat- IN ORA: Pop diva Rita stole the show ing rhythms and four gyrating dancers, the pop diva turned lead singer Danny O’Donoghue gig-goers back to 2008 after up the heat, removing her red launched his coat into the audi- stepping in for Clean Bandit stilettos and stripping down to ence. who dropped out just 24 hours her bra.

Maxi Priest drew the biggest re- before the event.

With the crowd well and action from fans, with reggae- It was such a late change that truly warmed up, The Script lovers crammed to watch the organisers embarrassingly bounced on to the stage, greet- veteran British vocalist. flashed up ‘Clean Bandit’ on ed by glow sticks and Ireland Last-minute replacement the big screen during Scouting flags. The crowd erupted when Scouting for Girls transported for Girls’ opening song.

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the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

SEXIST?: MEP Miguel Arias Canete

Energy boost

A CONTROVERSIAL Spanish MEP has been appointed as the EU’s new energy and climate commissioner.

Miguel Arias Canete was handed the key role as Russia slashed gas supplies to the Ukraine.

The Spanish MEP was mired in controversy after sexist comments he made during a political debate went viral.

Incoming European Commission President Jean Claude-Juncker picked the 64-year-old Spaniard with French and British politicians taking positions in economic affairs and financial services respectively.

The move boosts Spain’s numbers in the European governing body and could allow the country’s ruling party to push for the Iberian Peninsula to replace Russia as Europe’s main gas supplier.

GREEN NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

The jungle crooks

Authorities in southern Spain battle growing animal trafficking problem, writes Rob Horgan ALGECIRAS has emerged as Europe’s animal trafficking hotspot as Spain’s illegal animal trade booms.

Exotic animals – predominantly monkeys – are increasingly being smuggled across the Strait of Gibraltar into the busy southern port, as criminal organisations turn to trafficking animals rather than drugs or people.

Most smugglers use ferries to transport their goods, but one airline passenger was ar-

rested after a routine luggage search revealed a small monkey bound and gagged inside her handbag.

A spokesperson from primate rescue centre Primadomus Spain said that ‘mafia type gangs’ were largely to blame for the increased trafficking but warned European tourists of the dangers of smuggling animals.

“Tourists see an animal in the markets, especially in Morocco, and feel pity for it, they

want to save it,” she said.

“Primates are not like dogs and cats. They have the intelligence of a four -or five-yearold human child but they are five-to-eight times stronger than an adult human. They can break a bone with a bite.

“They cannot cope in a domestic environment. As they get older they start to show their natural instincts to be strong and dominant, to establish themselves in the group hierarchy, and they

BOUND AND GAGGED: Smuggled monkey attack their human group.

“The owner doesn’t know how to handle them, so they lock them into a small cage and leave them.”

Many smuggled animals are picked up by authorities in Spain who then home them at Primadomus Spain’s rescue centre.

Situated in a sheltered, green valley near Villena, the 450acre complex was built six years ago and homes more than 60 rescued primates.

The centre has become a key player in the fight against illegal animals in the Iberian Peninsula.

Record summer for Sierra Nevada

RECORD: Sierra Nevada enjoyed a 72-day summer

SNOW joke! Spain’s famous Sierra Nevada winter sports resort is celebrating its longest and most profitable summer in history.

During its 72-day summer season, the mountain enclave welcomed more than 37,000 visitors – a 23.5% increase on last summer.

According to the CEO of Cetursa Sierra Nevada SL, Maria Jose Lopez, the sudden boom in visitors results

from new sporting activities, cultural events and the take-off of the Sierra Nevada Bike Park.

The park – which has doubled its number of users since last year – has been nicknamed the ‘star of the summer’ by Lopez, after doubling its number of visiting bike enthusiasts last year.

More than 2,200 visitors used the newly-renovated

bike park this season, enjoying an extra 30km of new circuits and the Bike Park Mini for beginners.

New transport links to the top of the mountain saw three different lift systems operating for the first time, a telecabin, a chairlift and a travellator.

Park organisers announced the official end of the summer season on September 7.

Winds Only the best, naturally, at Andalucia’s On the of largest organic supermarket Mijas change SPANISH wind turbine manufacturer Gamesa is to issue more than 25 million new shares.

Funds raised by the sale of the shares will be invested in emerging global markets to extend the company’s international network.

The sale is estimated to be worth more than €250 million at current market prices, equivalent to 10% of the group’s capital.

Gamesa and France’s Areva previously agreed a joint venture with the intention of getting 20% of Europe’s offshore wind farm projects by 2020.

THE largest organic and gourmet supermarket in Andalucia has opened on the outskirts of Marbella.

Family-run Chipolino Natural in Centro Comercial Los Halcones, in Benahavis, on the Ronda road, is stocking everything from non biological washing powder to organic pet food.

Its 250 square metres are also packed with vegetables, herbs, milk, fresh meat and fish.

“We aim to get Marbella locals eating well and there is a definite drift, albeit slow, to healthy organic food,” explained owner Rafael Vicuña, 58. The Basque fatherof-three launched the business after working for many years in the US and Mexico, as a constructor.

“I got interested in organic food when I discovered how

trail

much rubbish people ate in Mexico. It is the same here, yet in Andalucia, you can buy the best quality produce in the world, if you can just get hold of it,” he added.

“Sadly too much of it gets sent abroad. We hope to change that.”

Vicuña, whose wife is Russian, hopes to champion small, local producers and soon set up a website to buy online.

His sister Jovita - wife of Marbella estate agent Panorama Properties boss Christopher Clover - is also a parter in the venture.

Contact 952 799 401 for info

MIJAS Town Hall is relaunching its ever-popular guided walk program.

There are several hikes to choose from, with the Route One option being easier, and Route Two option being a little more challenging.

Walks are €3 per person, which includes a drink and a ‘tapa’ at the end of the route.

The dates for September’s walks are 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28. All meet at the tourist office at 9am.

For more information and to register, email turismo@ mijas.es, visit the tourist office, or call 952 589 034 AMBITIOUS: Rafael is championing local producers

International Design School

• GRAPHIC DESIGN • INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE • FASHION DESIGN

16

LETTERS

the - October 13 2014 theolive olivepress press--September August 20 18 - September 2014

POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 71.73% Same week last year: 81.29% Same week in 2004: 52.63% AIRPORTS Gibraltar 00350 22073026 Granada-Jaen 958 245 200 Jerez - 956 150 000 Malaga - 952 048 844* *For English press 9 Sevilla - 954 449 000 EMERGENCIES Police 091 Guardia Civil 062 Medical service 061 Fire 080 EURO EXCHANGE RATES 1 euro is worth 1.29 American dollars 0.79 British pounds 1.43 Canadian dollars 7.45 Danish kroner 10.03 H Kong dollars 8.13 Norwegian kroner 1.64 Singapore dollars

www.theolivepress.es

Honest work

Hail the Kings

DEAR OP, I AM all for removing all the dodgy politicians from office, but who will replace them?

Finding ‘honest’ men and women in Spain, would be a search as frustrating as was that of Diogenes in ancient Greece.

Super-judge Baltasar Garzon and communist mayor Sanchez Gordillo are not a big enough team to turn Spain around, although I bet they would give it a go.

GOD bless the Kings. Let them fight for their child’s life in peace.

We cannot fault Ashya’s parents for displaying adamant devotion to their son.

I worked in surgery – specifically neurosurgery – for 23 years. The vast majority of brain surgeons were brilliant and dedicated.

However, if you have three brain surgeons in the same room, you will have seven different opinions. Medicine is not an exact science but an ‘art’ that is practised.

I applaud you Brett King and I wish you and your family the very best. Keep up the good fight.

Stefanjo Sliwinski, Malaga

Rock jealousy IMAGINE if Spain took over Gibraltar (Celebrations in Gibraltar for 1,000 days of Liberal government, OP online).

Within a year or two most of the businesses would have closed down. Lunatic employment and planning laws would drive every entrepreneur away, unemployment would rocket, and properties would soon be worth nothing.

The whole place would be inefficient, stagnant and mired in corruption, like much of Spain already is.

This is what annoys Spain; that Gibraltar is successful, entrepreneurial and thriving.

Fred Smith, Marbella

Hello Joe I AM the man behind the character ‘Joe’ in the book

Truman Seligman, England

Witch hunt

Health heroes

IF you were to have the roof of your house fixed, you would get three different quotes and sack anyone who was not doing a good job.

Ashya’s father did not agree with the treatment and had every right to remove his son from danger. How is that kidnapping?

He did not support the medical directives and they started a witch hunt to make an example of him and anybody else that questions doctors.

I AM fed up with all this NHS bashing. It is a wonderful institution full of caring doctors and nurses.

I think Brett King was out of line. The long journey through two countries in a cramped car in August heat could have killed the poor boy.

The Kings were relying on products purchased on the internet and unable to provide proper medical emergency treatment in the case of post-op complications. What was Southampton General hospital supposed to do?

I wish the little boy all the best, he is the only true innocent in the story.

Aranza Munoz, Mijas

Jo Walsh, Sotogrande

The Drifters (Mapping the drifters, Issue 194).

Matt Carney and I met author James Michener in Pamplona in 1966.

Matt was mentoring me in the ways of fiesta and Michener noticed the pairing of the two Irish-Americans from different generations.

We argued about the war and Michener interviewed me over a four-beer lunch.

He told me he was going to write a short story for the Pamplona chapter of Iberia and also wanted to know about all the ways to beat the draft. He was on my side, against the war.

Matt and I were the inspiration of this book.

Jerry Roach, California

Think twice IT is a disgrace that insurance companies take your premium and then you have to fight for them to pay out what is due (‘Left in the lurch’, Issue 195).

One thing is for sure, after reading your story people will think twice about using Ocaso in the future.

Naomi Brewer, Nerja

Spot on FOR a change, I decided to start at the back of the Olive Press (Issue 194) rather than the front.

The articles ‘It was meant TB’ and ‘Real joyride’ really grabbed my attention – and held it.

Reading the feature on Gaucin in the same issue (‘Mountain high, river deep’), I noticed the writer followed the guidelines I learnt as a journalist and children’s author.

The intro was catchy and the style was also particularly engaging and lively throughout.

Really well done!

Beverly Saunders, Marbella

Smugglers’ revenge I REMEMBER 30 years ago reading about high speed inflatables from Gibraltar, loaded with contraband tobacco, outrunning Guardia Civil and offloading their loot on La Linea’s Paseo Maritimo del Este.

To stop the onshore Guardia from intervening, the people of the La Linea precinct La Atunara, known as Winstonyeros – dependant on the contraband for their livelihoods – blockaded the Paseo.

Eventually the Gibraltar Government confiscated the inflatables which led the owners to run amok and vandalise Main Street.

Mike Hamence, Sabinillas

Only evidence I SYMPATHISE with the plight of Sue McCleary’s mother, as detailed in her ‘No Sympathy’ response (Issue 193), to my letter (‘Wheel problem’, Issue 192).

I didn’t seek or want any sympathy, only to further add to the anecdotal evidence of fund collecting for ‘tiny misdemeanours’, which appears to be growing.

Brian Flowers, Mijas Costa

Shooting facts I LIVE in Monte Halcones (‘Scarface’ executed, issue 195). While you reported that the shooting took place in a local cafe/bar, it actually took place outside on the steps.

Martin Butler, Benahavis

Queen quibble

you have kids with you what are you supposed to say to them?

I know the other free newspapers will do nothing as they carry pages of Escort ads which I understand is now illegal to do so, but what can we do about it?

Name withheld, Marbella

I HAVE to inform you that Miss Spain is actually the second Gay Beauty Queen to openly announce her sexuality (Miss ‘out’, issue 195). The First European Beauty Queen being The Rose of Tralee 2014 in August! Another first for Ireland!

ED: Actually, it happened on the same day. But unfortunately the Rose of Tralee is not a national beauty Queen, as she is not Miss Ireland. Sorry Ireland!

Escort anguish I’M not prudish, but sleazy flyers being placed on cars is getting totally out of hand and degrading Marbella.

You get theses flyers put on your car windows whenever you park in the streets outside Puerto Banus and especially near any hotel. When

NUISANCE: Escort flyers placed on cars in Marbella area

Letters should be emailed to letters@theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided. Opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

CROSSMOT 40 Across 1 Clásico (7) * 5 Tímido (5) * 8 Greasy (9) * 9 Brecha (3) * 10 Siete (5) * 12 Job (7) * 13 Consequences (13) * 15 Más Fácil (7) * 17 Minero (5) * 19 Esquí (3) * 20 Storms (9) * 22 Signos (5) * 23 Sistemas (7).

Down 1 Jaulas (5) * 2 Loves (3) * 3 Ciencia (7) * 4 Builders (13) * 5 Troop (5) * 6 Migración (9) * 7 Despliega (7) * 11 Desvanecimiento (9) * 13 Quesos (7) * 14 Números (7) * 16 These (5) * 18 Se Levanta (5) * 21 La (3).

L = 199

la cultura

17 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

Benalmadena’s point in time SNAP-HAPPY amateurs and seasoned professionals will join forces in Benalmadena, at the launch of a new annual photography walk.

A joint venture of the Costa del Sol Photographic Society and Benalmadena Town Hall, the event takes place on September 27, between 5-8pm.

Organisers hope the event will be an annual

SPAIN-BOUND: Actor Joseph Fiennes

Lights, cameras, action!

ANDALUCIA has become one of Hollywood’s favourite new movie locations as yet another major epic gets ready to roll in the region.

Sets are currently being assembled in Almeria for Clavius, a biblical thriller starring British actor Joseph Fiennes, famous for his role as the Bard in the Oscar-winning Shakespeare in Love, opposite Gwyneth Paltrow and Dame Judi Dench.

A parking lot – overshadowed by the city’s spectacular Alcazaba castle – has been chosen as the primary site for the film, with other scenes being shot in Malta.

Shooting will begin in October under the watchful eye of American director Kevin Reynolds, creator of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.

Clavius is the second biblical epic to be shot in Almeria this year, following Ridley Scott’s Exodus: Gods and Kings, starring Christian Bale and Joel Edgerton, which was shot in the spring.

Hugely popular HBO television series Game of Thrones is also due to begin filming in Sevilla – representing the Kingdom of Dorne – before the end of the year.

HIT: Jesus Castro and Meriem Bachir ACTION thriller El Nino is poised to rake in more than €7.7 million at the Spanish box office.

Only six films – five from Hollywood – have taken more than €7.7 million in Spain this year, led by Maleficent starring Angelina Jolie, which took €13.2 million.

One of the most ambitious

‘point in time’ for Benalmadena, acting as a time capsule for yearly changes.

Open to everyone, the walk will both promote Benalmadena and bring people together at the same time.

Prizes will be offered for the best photographs.

For more information, email: cpsbenalphotowalk@gmail.com

Million dollar boy

Going fourth!

GRANADA is hosting an exhibition of work by Londontrained artist John Wragg.

Inspired by the fourth dimension, Fourth-Kind Shadows is an abstract, geometric collection, employing colours, light and optical illusion.

“The fourth dimension is a firmly-established mathematical and scientific concept with a long history of influencing artists,” said the artist, who trained at St Martin’s School of Art in London.

The exhibition in Lanjaron, Granada, on September 21 will have a limited-edition signed print auctioned in aid of Acompalia hospice.

For more information see www.johnwragg.net

Spanish blockbuster El Nino takes box office by storm Spanish films ever, in terms of action sequences, El Nino maps a small-time drug dealer’s spectacular crossings of the Straits of Gibraltar.

El Nino could be set to become one of the two high-

Film me up

est-grossing films this year, according to the CEO of Telecinco Cinema, Ghislain Barrois.

“It’s clear that Spanish audiences are fed-up with typical Hollywood superheroes,” he said.

Worldwide

JOURNEY: In Living is Easy THE shortlist for Spain’s Oscar submission has been announced, with Carlos Marques-Marcet’s 10,000 KM, Daniel Monzon’s El Nino and David Trueba’s Living is Easy with Eyes Closed making the cut.

Though all box office successes, the three films could hardly be more different.

Action-packed El Nino is a tense thriller exploring social issues; 10,000 KM provides an examination of Spain’s youth diaspora and classic art house film; and, Living is Easy with Eyes Closed is a romantic tale set in the Franco era.

“On the other hand, because they’ve had so few of them, they’re interested in Spanish stories.

“If you provide the right story, despite the depressed market, the audience will follow.”

Directed by Daniel Monzon, who also created Cell 211 – a massive hit that took €12.3 million – the film has received high praise from critics worldwide. It follows Ocho Apellidos Bascos, or ‘Spanish Affair’, which was also co-produced by Telecinco and took an incredible €57 million in Spain, the highest - grossing domestic film ever.

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what’s on

A

lhaurin el Grande.

September 19 and

20. Artisan bread-making workshop, run by Catalan master-baker Josep Pascual. Professional class September 19, amateurs September 20. For more information, email cursosjoseppascual@ gmx.es

F

uengirola.

September 27, 6pm.

Quiz at the Lux Mundi Ecumenical Centre, in Torre del Mar. With live music and traditional Andalucian food. Tickets €5.50. Contact 952 543 334, email luxmundi@ lux-mundi.org, or www. lux-mundi.org

M

alaga. Until September 28, 9.30am-8pm.Picasso:

The minotaur in its labyrinth. Exhibition of minotaur-themed paintings and drawings from Parisian magazine Minotaure. Fundacion Picasso, Plaza de la Merced 15.

L

a Cala de Mijas. Until October 6.Exhibition

ABSTRACT: Artist John Wragg with a work

showing work from expats from the Artistas Eclecticos group including Elaine Carlton, Richard Wood, Margit Borklund and Gunnvor Sorhus. Visit www.artistaseclecticos. com

The Sabinillas Bookshop

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Tel: 952 891 545 Email: steve@sabinillasbookshop.com

We now stock all your Daily and Sunday Newspapers Y PRENSA ESPAÑOL TAMBIEN

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Secure Mail Boxes Available Ask in the shop for details

déjà vu

18

la cultura

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

How ‘green’ Natasha Were ventures into the wilds of the Andalucian outback as a farm volunteer to find out whether ‘eco-living’ is a sustainable dream

déjà vu Quality pre-owned furniture & goods for your home Open Tuesday to Saturday Plaza de la Constitucion, Jimena de la Frontera 11330 Telephone /Telefono – 636 730 542 Opposite Bar Vecina & next to Taxi Rank Frente al Bar Vecina

HEAVY WORK: Wheelbarrows at the ready and (right) Natasha

S

TUMBLING around in pitch dark, crashing into furniture, risking a broken neck as I felt my way blindly down the stairs, all in aid of saving the planet… Sustainable living comes in many shapes and forms and there are downsides!

The house I was staying in, although in a small village, was ‘off the grid’ quite literally. The two solar panels and rudimentary battery system were not enough to power the house through the night. The owners’ solution to the problem was simple: lights out after dark!

This was an aspect of eco-living that could take some getting used to...

Being here was all part of a grand plan, however. I was on a quest to discover what it really meant to ‘live sustainably’ in Spain and whether it was the life for me. In order to do this, I volunteered to work several hours a day for people who claim GREEN FINGERS: Vegetable gardens, and below to live ‘sustainably’. of the Rio Ebro. Enthusiastic This, I reasoned, would allow advocates of natural living, me to both see more of the they had left high-powered countryside and to gain some careers behind to live more valuable, hands-on experisimply, albeit very comfortence. ably, in rural Spain.

I set off in early March, arrivTheir house was fully solaring at a rustic finca and ecopowered, they ate almost exguest house in the mountains clusively from their orchard outside Girona. In return for and vegetable garden or helping the owner – a noexchanged surplus produce nonsense Yorkshire-woman with neighbours, used only – with her poultry, dogs and vinegar for cleaning and organic garden, she provided made every effort to patronme with accommodation and ise small, local businesses. three square meals a day.

However, they did not catch My first morning was spent and store any rain water and ankle deep in duck ‘do-do’! insisted on drying laundry in The straw on the bottom of a tumble drier – even on the the duck cage, matted tosunniest days! gether with ‘guano’ which Moving on to a lush green valwas liquefying in the pouring ley in Cadiz where a waterfall rain, had to be raked up and provided unlimited fresh watransferred to the compost ter, making the soil incredibly heap. The smell was so noxfertile, I expected to find fruit ious it made my eyes water and vegetables growing in and my stomach heave. But, abundance.

I had to remind myself, this was exactly what it was all Wildfire about.

But the lack of any irrigation The smell notwithstanding, I system meant that, each day, grew quite fond of the ducks. the owners had to spend sevTheir cheerful waddling and eral hours moving a single perky, upturned tail feathsprinkler around the vegers never failed to make me smile – never more so than had gone to leave as light a ture greenhouses for winter etable garden at 20-minute intervals. after a day down the disused footprint on the planet as salads.

This laborious process meant well. possible: investing in solar Considering her huge efforts The previous owners of the panels to heat water and to pursue an ecoliogical life- running up a steep hill to turn property, taking the ‘out of treating ‘grey water’ by chan- style, it struck me as odd that the tap off, running back sight, out of mind’ approach nelling it through a series of when her own garden was not down to move the sprinkler, then running back uphill to waste management, had cleverly-designed ponds. producing enough fresh vegfilled the well with thousands The last pond was clean etables and she had to buy again to turn the tap on. As a result, the owners weren’t of bottles, broken plates and enough to attract birds, bees, extra, she did keen to make more work for cans over several decades. frogs and innot choose or- themselves by planting addiMy host now wanted to haul sects, all of ganic. tional crops.

I could neither it up – bucket by bucket. So which would When I asked By June, with the sun beatdown into the bowels of the help to keep a see nor hear any why, she wrin- ing down and the land dryearth I went, with a bucket healthy pest/ kled her nose ing up, the threat that forest sign of human on a string. I never did find predator baland said, “I fires pose for those living in out the purpose of the exer- ance and just don’t like remote, rural areas became life cise because, once the lad- make pestithe way the starkly apparent. I found der that had been put down cides unnecorganic stuff myself on a large neglected the well had reached its full essary in the garden. looks. It’s all shrivelled up property in a densely-woodextension, I could go down Weeds from the organic vege- and manky.” no further. Project Clean table garden and food scraps It certainly wasn’t the only ed valley, several kilometres Well was abandoned, leaving were fed to the chickens or occasion that I found people down a very rough track. untold tons of rubbish down composted; ash from the fire- practising other than they I could neither see nor hear any sign of human life and there. place was spread around the preached.

Over the next few weeks, fruit trees as a natural fer- In Tarragona I met a charming there was no phone coverage however, I learned about the tiliser; plastic water bottles Dutch couple with a beautiful or radio reception. incredible lengths my host were re-purposed as minia- country home on the banks It was no surprise that the

la cultura

19 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

is your valley?

CREEPY CRAWLIES: The insect garden, while (right) an irrigation system and (inset) ducks

people living there continually scanned the skies, looking for any sign of smoke, helicopters or small planes, and argued passionately about the need to clear the undergrowth to mitigate the spread of wildfire.

What was surprising, was that they had decided to empty and paint the water reservoir at the start of summer, yet had not bothered to refill it!

M y journey is not over yet but a few things have become clear along the way: achieving any degree of self-sufficiently requires hard – often monotonous – work; living in remote rural areas

has its appeal but it can also be isolating and lonely.

Most importantly. though, there is no single, ‘right way’ of pursuing a greener lifestyle. Different people have different priorities, resources and approaches.

What is certain is that even a few small steps in the right direction are better than none at all.

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la cultura

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

‘Pirates’ or archaeologists?

I

N 1804 the Spanish frigate Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, laden with a massive shipment of New World gold and silver, was sunk by an English naval squadron. The naval battle, off the Algave, lasted less than an hour, but the legal battle raged for years.

The story of the Mercedes is a two century narrative, the twists and turns of which lie not at the bottom of the sea but in the courtrooms, warehouses and museums of Spain and the United States.

In the early 1800s Napoleon turned his conquering attention from central Europe to the Iberian Peninsula. The results were disastrous for Spain. As a precursor to the Peninsular Wars, Spain was forced to send much of its New World bounty to France – the fee for Napoleonic ‘alliance’.

Plundering

England – hoping to halt Napoleon’s advance – imposed a naval blockade. On October 5 1804, the two naval squadrons engaged in the aforementioned naval battle, . More than 200 sailors aboard the Mercedes met their demise and an unknown quantity of bullion sunk to the ocean floor.

In 2007, an American company called Odyssey Marine Exploration made an interesting discovery. About 160km off the coast of Portugal, Odyssey

A legal battle has restored Spain’s claim to the biggestever underwater bounty, writes Jack Gaioni

TREASURE HUNTERS: Odyssey salvaged a ‘sizeable but undetermined’ quantity of silver coinage, transporting it back to its Tampa Florida warehouse for further assessment.

It should be noted that Odyssey Marine Exploration is a profit-driven, private company with stockholders and private investors. Its primary business is the salvage of deep water shipwrecks and underwater surveys for naturally occurring seabed deposits of valuable minerals. It has an extensive track record and has many ongoing salvaging operations in various stages of development.

In the company’s mission state-

ment, Odyssey Marine Exploration claims that the recovery of artefacts and underwater treasure is accomplished only unack’s orner der the supervision of qualified archaeologists and they follow rigorous international maritime state owned’. Spain branded laws and protocols. Their find- Odyssey ‘21st century pirates’, ings are often ‘showcased’ in commercial ‘grave robbers’ public exhibitions and publica- accusing them of ‘plundertions. ing Spain’s cultural heritage’.

However, in this case soon Ultimately, the courts ruled after the bullion was trans- against Odyssey and ordered ported to Florida, the Spanish the bullion – worth an incredgovernment challenged Odys- ible €380 million – to be resey’s ownership. A bitter five- turned to Spain. This treasure year legal battle within the US was exhibited for the first time district court in June this system ensued. year, at the NaOdyssey Marine The bullion salvaged tional ArcheoExploration arlogical Museby Odyssey is gued that the um in Madrid. believed to be wreck was withThe dispute in international over the Merthe most valuable waters and that cedes is part ‘treasure’ ever there wasn’t of a greater sufficient evidebate over dence to prove the control of the positive identity of the ves- underwater treasure. Technolsel as the Mercedes. ogy has made it easier to loFurthermore, Odyssey claimed cate and retrieve shipwrecks. that even if it had been the Robotics, sophisticated sonar, Mercedes, the ship was not on remote controlled submersa military mission but a com- ibles and high definition cammercial venture. Under interna- eras represent just some of the tional maritime law, if a wreck advanced technology available is found to be a warship the to companies like Odyssey Incargo remains property of the ternational. After all the comship’s country of origin. pany, not the Spanish taxpayer, Spain, on the other hand, was spent nearly €1.9 million to able to provide convincing ar- salvage the Mercedes. Should chival evidence to show it was private companies like Odysindeed ‘military and therefore sey be penalised for having

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BATTLE: Which continued on much longer in court the due diligence and financial means to recover artifacts that tell the forgotten secrets of maritime travel?

Under whose legal jurisdiction do these cases fall? Does this case represent wellintentioned historical research or a shameless attempt at profit?

The answers to these HAUL: The ship’s treasure questions are, for now, rhetorical but must be addressed. The It will become part of the perbullion salvaged by Odyssey is manent collection and curators believed to be the most valu- will continue to catalogue, conable ‘treasure’ ever recovered. serve and restore the artefacts.

The stakes can be very high.

Some items will become part The saga of the Mercedes is of a rotating exhibit throughout being exhibited in Madrid until Spain. Along with the bullion November when it will come and other Mercedes artifacts, under the auspices of the Na- the exhibit displays the actual tional Museum of Underwater documents that were key to Archaeology in Cartagena. resolving the ensuing legal

C Famous since All about

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

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August 7 - August 20 2014

asares

Caesar’s days

FAMOUS FACES: Caesar and below (from left to right) Axel Rose, Patrick Stewart and Brad Pitt

PICTURE BY JACQUELINE FANCHINI

The birds, mountains and waters of Casares have been drawing superstar visitors for years, from Julius Caesar to Brad Pitt, and Peter Andre to Guns and Roses. Tom Powell discovers it was even named after the former Roman emperor

O

NE was a mighty Roman Emperor, the other a Hollywood superstar.

It’s hard to imagine Julius Caesar and Brad Pitt having a whole lot in common, other than fame, but both were drawn to the magical white village of Casares.

Hollywood heart-throb Pitt and his partner actress Angelina Jolie were spotted visiting the stunning town last year when they took a side-trip

to the stunning mountain enclave, perched between two majestic peaks, celebrated for its vultures and eagles.

The celebrity couple were apparently so enchanted, they popped into local art gallery, Studio 54, to purchase two paintings as mementos of their visit, perhaps to hang in their French chateau where they were married only last month.

“They spent some time looking at the paintings before purchasing two,” recalls the gallery’s owner David Espana, a former paparazzi photographer, no less, who was forbidden from taking pictures.

“They were really very nice, unassuming, but then a lot of celebrities are.,” he said.

Whereas the Pitt-Jolies arrived with

an entourage of five, apparently staying at the town’s stunning five star hotel Finca Cortesin, Julius Caesar did it in even more style.

Flanked by an entire army of bodyguards and soldiers he swept into the village on various occasions in 60BC allegedly to rid himself of an unpleasant skin complaint at the famous nearby Roman sulphur baths of La Hedionda.

While camping, one would guess, on the nearby coastline, he left such an impression on the village that it was named Casares in his honour.

Incredibly, the baths remain a tourist attraction to this day, although it Turn to next page

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Roman holiday

FOUL SMELLING BUT FUN: The sulphur baths of La Hedionda From previous page

requires a certain bravery to put up with the stench of rotten eggs emanating from the sulphurous waters.

The spa is named La Hedionda (Spanish for ‘foul-smelling woman’) for good reason!

However, it’s worth a visit for the chance to enjoy a rejuvenating exfoliation with mineral-rich mud and relax in the turquoise waters of these atmospheric stonework baths.

Many other celebrities, including Patrick Stewart of Star Trek, pop star Peter Andre, Axl Rose from Guns and Roses, not to mention British TV star and former politician Robert Kilroy Silk and former Santander Bank boss Emilio Botin, have been similarly attracted to this vertiginous village of just 3,000 inhabitants, and it’s not hard to see why.

Within easy reach of the coast’s bright lights and attractions, yet a world apart, it is the most picturesque ‘pueblo blanco’ for miles around and one of the most photographed.

It is also famously the birthplace of Blas Infante, ‘the father of Andalucian nationalism’ who was executed by Franco's forces at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War, dying with ‘Long live free Andalucia!’ on his lips.

Arab castle walls encircle the quaint old town, where the central Plaza de Espana is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and tapas.

But take the cobbled street up to the castle to discover the real beauty. From the ruins you can see for miles, to Gibraltar and Morocco in one

CAPTION

direction and to the green hills of Cadiz in the other, where white wind turbines speckle the landscape like daisies.

The 11th century castle is worth a visit but, curiously, the serene cemetery is also

There is more than 200km of public footpaths navigating the area a must,t with its breathtaking views and wall niches decorated with wreaths, nosegays of wild flowers and poignant plaques.

A new cultural centre dedicated to Blas Infante stands alongside it, in what was formerly a church. The village house where the poet and politician was born is now a museum dedicated to his life.

The village itself can seem deserted on a summer afternoon - indeed the town hall has done little to promote itself properly as a tourist destination - but when the sun drops behind the peaks it swells with people in the streets and drinking on terraces.

There are actually very few shops worth poking your head into, but the butchers sell the tastiest chorizo and salchichon for miles around.

The surrounding countryside is probably the biggest draw.

It is a veritable walker’s paradise, with many routes departing from the village, taking in the sights of the Sierra Crestellina, a 478-hectare natural park named after its dramatic mountain crests which are so inaccessible, only high-flying raptors like eagles and Griffon vultures can reach them.

There is more than 200km of public footpaths navigating the area leading you through 200 million years of geologi-

PICTURESQUE: Casares is one of the most famous ‘white villages’ in Spain

23 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

Restaurant Road

Casares route has best mix of restaurants in Malaga, reckons Olive Press editor Jon Clarke

I SERENE: Fishing off Playa Ancha

cal and human history.

Well signposted and varied, the walks take in a number of its best restaurants if you plan your route carefully, and are a real delight, particularly in autumn and spring.

But Casares has another secret that can be spotted from way up here – beaches! Drop down to Casares Costa and head for lovely Playa Ancha and its 16th century watchtower, the Torre del Sal (Salt Tower), where the double headland provides a great location for snorkelling.

“I go snorkeling on the headland almost every day and it’s always amazing, exploring under the water is different each time,” said 20-year-old James Partington, a resident of Marina del Casares.

“Casares is perfect for outdoor activities, with the beau-

tiful mountains and the great coastline – the best of both worlds.”

It gets busy in summer, when there are outdoor markets, night cinemas on the beach and the hordes walk up from nearby Sabinillas, but outside high season, you can have the beach to yourself.

Best of all make a point of visiting the eve of San Juan the longest day of the year in June - when it is buzzing with life and light.

Celebrated with an almighty bonfire on the beach, at midnight fireworks light up the sky as revelers head down to the sea for a ritual cleansing.

Traditionally, washing your face and feet three times will grant you three wishes and a happy year ahead.

I did it this year… happy times to come.

T was once a brassic backwater where the local form of transport was by donkey and the main reason to come was to collect wood and esparto grass, used to weave baskets and even shoes.

Today, the road from the coast to Casares is a true foodies’ paradise, full of veritable dining secrets, where those-in-the-know come for a cheeky lunch or a gourmet weekend as often as they can.

Take it from me. As editor of the website Dining Secrets of Andalucia (www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com) I have often taken forays up this charming road into the beautiful hills.

Snuffling out its chestnuts and marvelling at its picture postcard scenery, the site now has five places warranting their inclusion on the website... and, quite frankly, there should be more.

“Anyone in the know now talks about the Casares road as being the place to come and eat,” explains Michael Forge, an English expat, who opened his restaurant The Forge with his wife Athene two decades ago.

An atmospheric place that typifies the local dining experience, he adds: “It sort of happened out of the blue and in summer you often need to book a week in advance if you want a table.”

Fellow chef at Arroyo Honda Christian Robson-Burrell believes that it is the healthy mix of styles and ‘bags of ideas’ that has helped to turn the road into a true ‘ruta gastronomica’.

“There are none of the usual boring ventas and each place has its own USP with everything from modern Spanish to traditional mother’s cooking and the Asian in-

MAGICAL MESA: A mountain view at Venta Victoria and (right) Noriko at Arroyo Hondo fluence,” he estimates. “And above all, we all work hard.”

Local estate agent Oscar Ernstsen, of Villas and Fincas, agrees.

“The healthy amount of competition only helps to improve things. And a good shopping street only attracts more and more people.

“In fact when Venta Garcia reopened a few years ago after a huge refit we thought, poor guy, he can never succeed with so many good restaurants around him... but the truth is he, like all the others, stays busy.”

The Dutch father-of-three adds: “Quite frankly, we don’t need to go to Marbella as

we are spoilt for choice here. It is a real luxury for those who live here.”

In clearly a case of the more the merrier, the road now also counts two excellent restaurants at arguably the Costa del Sol’s most exclusive hotel Finca Cortesin.

This amazing place to stay, built with impeccable taste and design in mind, has held the Volvo World Match Play tournament and recent guests include Peter Andre and Guns ‘N Roses stars Axl Rose.

But it is the unpretencious ventas like Venta Victoria, Venta Cozar and Mi Cortijo that really take the biscuit.

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Pueblo

MI CORTIJO

When you finally arrive in Casares Mi Cortijo takes some beating, with its amazing views of the white town and a coquettish French host Elizabeth (left), who knows how to knock up a decent lunch. A real queen of the kitchen she has fantastic foie gras, wild boar stew and other authentic local dishes.

Following 8

9 10

10.

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9.

7

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VENTA MARICRUZ

Another good local venta, where everything comes home made is Venta Maricruz, where Ana (right) and her family bake their own bread and produce superb local dishes such as goat black pudding and Casares gazpacho.

And the views are also to die for.

7.

THE FORGE

The grandfather the modern res rant scene in Ca res is The Fo Opened two deca ago by Michael Athene Forge, 200-year-old fa house is elegant the extreme and a fabulous menu match. Thanks to couple’s love of and theatre, it is l surprise to disco numerous stars h dined here over t Terry Lawless an terrace or the ca citing starters suc your-mouth chicke minced lamb ‘emp chicken curry and pudding is chestn coming back.

5 4

8.

ARROYO HONDO

6.

VENTA VICTORIA

Things really started to get exciting when clever Christian and his Japanese wife Noriko opened Arroyo Honda a decade ago. A true Dining Secret, Christian honed his skills in London and the Far East. The menu is changed weekly and he uses mostly seasonal produce. With an emphasis on quality dishes, with a twist, the menu might include such delights as braised oxtail with Parmesan gnocci with white truffle oil and king prawn tempura with a Wakame salad and Ponzu dressing. A stunning new dish is the Tempura soft shell crab with ‘nam jim’ dressing and a sea weed salad. A veritable sweet and sour adventure, crunchy and bursting with freshness. They also offer plenty of game through the winter, as well as dishes like loin of venison wellington with jamon serrano and mushroom duxelle.

Open since 1942, charming Venta Victoria is now in the third generation of the same Saborido Cozar family. Once a stopping off place for ‘arrieros’ who used to transport goods, primarily wood and esparto grass, by donkey, it is now one of the most authentic places to eat in Andalucia. Beautifully decorated inside it has a fabulous dining terrace, sheltered from the sun and wind and with excellent views towards the coast and mountains. Different to its rivals, this is a true family affair with half a dozen brothers and sisters running the show. It is open for breakfast and serves up a great range of dishes. Expect to eat the most hearty of meals, well sourced, extremely tasty and home cooked, including pate and amazing lamb chops. There is always plenty of celebrated Andaluz fare such as bull’s cheeks and stew. Chicken in cognac with bacon and goat stew come highly recommended.

5.

VENTA GARCIA

Previously a spit and sawdust ‘truck stop’, it is little short of amazing the magic Jesus (right) has weaved on this strategic spot. A kind of Ibizencan redoubt, where chic urban lines meet stunning country views, what really pleases is the quality of the food, produced by a Venezuelan, who previously worked with Sergi Arola in Madrid. Broadly ‘modern Spanish’ the menu is large and enticing with an emphasis on quality ingredients and good, solid cooking.

There is an excellent value menu del dia, but the a la carte menu has some chestnuts like leg of goat with prune and raison sauce, a beef wellington and an amazing sea bass. Practically full at weekends, the place – that has been in Jesus’ family for three generations - is also frequently rammed at lunch and you have to be patient if you want a table. But hey, sit outside with a glass of Manzanilla and wait your turn, for you certainly will not be disappointed.

25 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

g the gourmet route It’s route one (to 10) for food fans... with no less than 10 fantastic places to stop off for lunch - or dinner - on the road up to Casares from the coast

E

r of stauasaorge. ades and this armt in has u to o the jazz little over have the years including Cecil Parkinson, nd Kenny Ball. Sit on the charming andle-lit dining room and opt for exch as Devils on Horseback (melt-inen livers wrapped in bacon) or spicy panadas’. Mains include Cape Malay d roast rack of lamb and a superb nut cheesecake. The punters keep

4.

Your first real venta is this classic stop by the side of the road, with stunning views to the hills and coast. Run by Andres Cozar and his wife Loli for the last 18 years, it specialises in meats cooked on the bbq, as well as other classic venta fare such as beef stew with mushrooms and the emblematic oxtail meat balls, as well as rabbit in garlic sauce. Friendly in the extreme, at weekends punters come from as far as Gibraltar and Malaga.

2.

3 2

VENTA COZAR

THE BRASSERIE

Moving up the road inland your first port of call will be the fabulously fun and family-orientated restaurant The Brasserie. Set just off the road, this is a true community centre, great for kids, and warm and popular with locals. Owned by friendly Dutch woman Anita, who is truly the life and soul of the place, it feels elegant once inside. Different to its rivals, it serves a straightforward menu, which is usually a soup and a main course, like beef stew or fish and the prices are extremely good value, as are the wines. A popular place to come for lunch - particularly after a game of golf next door at Casares golf - it is rarely empty.

3.

EL JARDIN/ KABUKI

For those looking for a real treat one of the true high-end, glamour spots of the Costa del Sol - then you need to take a turn off the main road through the big white gates of Finca Cortesin. For inside this stunning five-star hotel, certainly the most sumptuous of the region, you will find two excellent restaurants right up there with the best. Under the overall charge of German Lutz Bosing (below), both are elegance in the extreme. El Jardin has a distinct Portuguese feel with a fantastic terrace for lunch and warm summer evenings. Its menu is a tour of simplicity with some magical touches and a fabulous wine list to match, including gems such as Chateau Y’quem at €300 a pop and the slightly more affordable Moray St Denis 2005 at €96.

Kabuki Raw is more Asian-influenced and a superb fusion joint, where you will appreciate creativity and good solid cooking.

1

1.

VENTA LA CHOZA

Our tour begins at the very bottom of the MA-546, beside the little-known Playa Ancha beach, with its ancient watchtower and stunning vistas. Here, you will find the attractive Venta la Choza, beside the N-340 main road with its turn off up to Dona Julia golf. A friendly spot run by a local family, it has quite a few interesting chestnuts on the menu such as clam and mushroom stew, which is delicious and a Parmesan and spinich crepe, which with oozes with goodness.

Bahia de

Casares

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Swooping down for lunch

IT is almost impossible to jestic griffon vultures, who spend a day in Casares with- have made their home in out spotting limestone forat least one mations on the large bird western side of Vultures feature gliding overSierra Crestelhead. in everything in lina.

And when we Circling around Casares, from say large, we overhead, they mean very, keep a watchart through to very large, for ful eye out for the big colony school-yard tales dead animals of vultures and for the that lives farming comnearby have munity.

The wingspans of up to 2.8m. vultures are generally helpThese scavengers are ma- ful for clearing away car-

WINGING: Vultures are known to steal baby goats

rion, although they have also been known to carry off the occasional new-born goat.

The vultures have become very much a part of Casares, featuring in everything

from art all the way through to school-yard tales, as children at the local school point in delight as one of them swoops past.

‘Long live free Andalucia!’

Blas Infante - the ‘father of Andalucia’ - was born in Casares and gave his life for the region, writes Tom Powell

Say cheese!

The irresistable cheeses of Queseria Sierra Crestellina are famous across Spain, writes Jacqueline Fanchini

FOUR generations down the line, the artisanal cheeses at the Queseria Sierra Crestellina are perfected with knowledge and expertise that extend far beyond the production belt.

The factory doesn’t look that impressive, but therein lies it’s secret, the element of surprise... Behind it’s unassuming exterior you are drawn into the irresistible, delicate flavours of its produce.

Inheriting the trade from his parents, Juan Ocana explains that the small family business works so well because of an effective use of its surroundings.

Goats can be seen climbing the steep mountain wall behind the cheese factory or being herded lower down, grazing only on natural grass.

Their milk is used to make day-old fresh cheese (€8/kg), two-month-old semi cured (€10/kg) or four-month-old cured cheeses (12 €/kg) along with yoghurt and – wait for it – soap.

The queseria’s shop also

THE ‘father of Andalucia’ and a son of Casares, Blas Infante is as much a part of the region as the vultures and eagles soaring above it.

The writer and politician was born and schooled in the little village of Casares, where he is now immortalised in a small museum in the very house in which he entered the world in 1885.

He is most famous for sowing the seed of Andalucian nationalism, designing the flag, composing the anthem and fighting non-stop for the region’s ‘self governing statute’.

He wrote a book titled the ‘Andalucian ideal’ and delivered Andalucia’s first ever Assembly in nearby Ronda in 1918.

Arrested

CHEESY DOES IT: Ana at work and (below) cheese

sells other pure-organic products from the area, such as; marmalade – made by one of Juan’s friends – honey and locally-made chocolate.

For those seeking more than just the food, there are guided tours of the farm and factory, workshops, cheese pairings and tastings.

He was also elected council representative for the district of Gaucin-Casares-Estepona in 1918, a year before he married Angustias Garcia Pradas, with whom he had three daughters and a son.

In 1936, after the February elections, the Andalucian campaign intensified and Blas Infante was proclaimed President of the new assembly.

However, his political ideals did not sit well with the fascist Franco regime and in August that year, as civil war broke out, he was arrested at his house in Sevilla and locked away in an old cinema.

Tragically, nine days later, without trial or sentence, he and two others were driven away and then shot dead at the side of the main road to Carmona.

As his body crumpled to the ground, he is believed to have roared: “Long live free Andalucia!”

Nowadays, his memory is honoured in Casares with the placing of flowers at the base of his statue every year in Plaza de Espana.

27 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS The ‘rural mini-Zagaleta’ of Casares is drawing more and more homeowners to its idyllic lifestyle, discovers Tom Powell TO commute to London and Amsterdam every week and then return to your home in Casares at the weekend seems exhausting.

But one local resident’s weekly plight shows just how adored this charming town is, to those in the know.

According to local agents the property market is very much on the up, with the wild and beautiful landscape providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

“We moved here in 2001 because we wanted to be surrounded by nature, stunning views and peace, but be still close to the facilities of the coast,” explained Anita Schmidt, of Villas and Fincas country properties.

“And everyone who buys

ON THE UP: Estate agents Anita and Oscar Schmidt

here does so for almost exactly the same reasons.”

Life in rural Casares is undoubtedly idyllic. Large, white villas sit in secluded 3000 metre squared plots where you’re actually more likely to see a wild boar than

any of your neighbours.

It’s the polar opposite of life in coastal urbanisations, while still being just a stone’s throw from the beaches.

But the gem that is Casares village is also a major draw,

with a smattering of quirky little shops, butchers selling the finest Spanish sausages and a brimming catalogue of cultural events.

“It is an upmarket area, like a mini Zagaleta, but much less urbanised,” says Schmidt, who lives with her husband Oscar and three teenage girls.

“The houses here are better quality and larger than other areas such as Alhaurin el Grande or Coin, and you obviously pay a bit extra for that.”

Around half of those buying are looking for second homes, with the rest making the move permanent.

The international schools dotted along the coast make the area perfect for families too, and it is also ideal for people commuting to Gibraltar.

The company, which has been based in the town for a decade specialises in large country properties, but also has some enormous estates for sale scattered around inland Andalucia and around nearby Benahavis and Marbella.

“We go all over the place and I sometimes end up driving for hours on end to show someone a property,” explains Oscar.

“But we still have a very strong focus here and we have sold quite a number of properties around the Casares area this year. Indeed, it’s been a very good year.”

For more information visit www.villasfincas.com

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29

www.theolivepress.es

LUXURY properties and Marbella go hand in hand, but few can match the accolade of Villa Piramide.

Designed by Argentinianborn architect Angel Taborda, the modern luxury villa has received a Grade II listing – one of the few villas in Marbella with this distinction.

“Naturally there are also historic buildings on the list, but this is one of the very few modern properties in the area whose architectural design has been recognised in this way,” said the villa’s owner, who did not want to be named.

Architect Taborda is known worldwide for his avantgarde style and his love of radical fluidity over straight-angled geometry.

Villa Piramide – designed to resemble a deconstructed pyramid – is regarded as one of his finest designs.

His brief was to combine the contemporary and the classical, creating a home with a clean, modern appeal but inspired by ancient castles and pyramids.

The spectacular result stands high above the Aloha Golf Course, just minutes from Puerto Banus.

An infinity pool looks out across the protected natural landscape to La Concha mountain and the Mediterranean. A wine cellar, gym, dressing room with refrig-

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

HOT PROPERTY: Listed home for sale boasts home cinema and wine cellar

A ‘Pharaoh’ deal Grade II listed Villa Piramide on the market in Marbella erated areas for furs and leather and a family cinema with seats imported from the US all combine to make Villa Piramide a luxury haven.

The property is currently on the market with Fine and Country estate agents, but the price is only available on request.

Visit www.fineandcountry. es for more information

French come South Chiclana expat THE French are hopping over to Spain, as President Hollande’s austerity measures weaken their domestic property market.

French buyers accounted for 18.2% of overseas enquiries for Spanish properties between January and June of this year.

Brits still lead, snatching up 54.4% of the country’s market, with Germany struggling to keep up with France, with around 7.5% of enquiries.

Martin Dell, director of property website Kyero, said: “The French economy is one of the strongest in Europe at the moment, providing French citizens with great buying power.

“With the French property market looking pretty flat, many are casting their eyes further south in search of holiday home bargains that can satisfy both investment and lifestyle requirements.”

The Dutch were also checking in with 5% of enquiries, followed by the Swedes with 2% and Norwegians with 1%.

tax challenge

A CHICLANA expat association has launched a petition to protest against ‘unfair’ property taxes.

The group, IBI Real, has collected more than 8,000 signatures protesting charges for IBI – similar to UK council tax.

Spokesperson Major Bill Davie, insists that the incorrectly-calculated tax is affecting most families in the Chiclana area. IBI Real are demanding an urgent review of the tax.

“It should send a firm signal that the people of Chiclana

are angry,” Davie said.

“IBI Real needs everyone to step forward and be counted by signing the petition.”

The petition will be sent to tax authorities in Madrid.

IBI Real hosts outdoor surgeries where people can sign the petition and get advice and help in Spanish and English.

The surgeries are held outside the town hall from 10am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays and Fridays.

See www.asociacionibichiclana.com for more information

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Property

On top of the world

31 the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

Social group running a ‘rooftop revolution’ across Spain ROOFTOPS across Andalucia are getting a new lease of life.

Spanish roofs are traditionally the barren domain of air conditioners, satellite dishes and laundry, but non-profit group Redetejas has sparked a revolution.

The group from Sevilla aims to transform the lofty ‘lost’ spaces into lively community hubs, used for concerts, theatre performances and even circuses.

“These spaces are vastly un-

The Property Insider e

By Imogen Calderwood derused,” said group member Jaime Fernandez.

“Historically, they were used as collaborative spaces between neighbours but today they’ve lost their social role.”

‘Reclaiming and re-conquering’ the terraces is simple: the event organisers pitch their idea and willing hosts offer their rooftop for the night.

Anything from a lecture on

COMMUNITY HUB: Spain’s rooftops are being rediscovered

constellations and astronomy to yoga demonstrations is allowed, with a maximum of 100 people attending.

Events are strictly non-profit, meaning there is no need for licences.

“It was surprisingly complicated to convince people that they could organise

something on their rooftops and that it was no problem to invite strangers,” added Fernandez.

After one year, the project has taken off, expanding from Sevilla to Madrid, Barcelona and even as far afield as Argentina.

Is there anybody in there?

by Adam Neal

I AM often asked how many empty homes there are on the Costa del Sol and, to be honest, I have no idea at all. What I do know, however, is there are fewer than many people think, particularly in the most in-demand areas.

Ever since 'la crisis' hit Spain's real estate market in 2008, talk-radio pundits, professional ‘experts’ and the expat world and its wife have questioned how many properties stand empty across Spain, and especially on the Costa del Sol. The simple answer is, nobody knows. But that doesn't stop people who should know better from wild ‘guesstimating’.

For instance, according to a sensational article in The Guardian in February, based on 2011 census data, there are more than 3.4 million empty homes in Spain. On the other hand, according to a report published in August by the Instituto de Práctica Empresaria (IPE), there are just 652,000 unoccupied houses across the nation, down from a maximum of close to a million homes back in 2010.

Of course, there are ‘white elephants’ like Valdeluz – the $1.2 million 'new town'

Talk of a glut of empty ‘ghost houses’ on the Costa should be taken with a large pinch of Mediterranean sea salt, writes Adam Neale EMPTY: Nobody knows how many Costa homes stand unoccupied

in Guadalajara, outside Madrid, which aimed to house 30,000 people, and where less than 2,500 live today. This project was delivered at the height of the crisis in an undeveloped suburban area.

Skeletons of castles, built from sand and

speculative dreams, still litter the coastline on both sides of Malaga in areas that should never have received planning permission in the first place. But my own experience, and the latest research, suggest there may not be as many empty homes on the Costa as some may think.

Last month, real-estate consultancy Aguirre Newman released its Residential Market Report for the Costa del Sol 2014, analysing 266 new-build developments of apartments and chalets along the coast. It found 207 were actively selling, 33 had sold out during 2013 and just 26 had ground to a halt during development, or were not selling. Of these, more than 40% were being sold by financial institutions.

It also noted that the total of new homes for sale on the Costa in 2014 fell to 16,500, some 18% less than the previous year. At the same time, four new developments were launched last year, the clearest sign yet that builders – and the banks backing them – believe there’s a market for more new homes and that things are on the upturn. In the previous three years, no new building permits were issued.

What the study also brought home is the existence of two parallel housing markets in Spain: the still-depressed Spanish market of local buyers, the vast majority of whom rely on financing from banks; and the increasingly buoyant overseas market, where many purchasers – up to 90%, according to the report – are cash buyers who don't need a mortgage.

I'm not trying to suggest there are no longer empty homes, whether for sale or unfinished, on the Costa del Sol. But they are, for the most part, in areas that remain underdeveloped.

They will take time to sell – not because the market is weak but because, simply put, most buyers would not live there even if you paid them!

Once the stock of fairly-priced, well-located homes in the market has sold, there will be a distinct shortage of quality property to buy in decent areas. So, it shouldn't be too long before the press starts writing about the next ‘boom’ and telling readers that 'now is the time' to buy a place in the sun.

Offer

32 The Olive Press’

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OP

monthly youth and education section

treme

Bottom of the class Experts blame high youth unemployment on Spain´s low grade university graduates

SPAIN’S university graduates are not a ‘class act’. They scored the lowest marks in a global study of basic literacy and numeracy skills – below the best-performing high school students.

The study – carried out by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) – placed Spain and Italy joint bottom in the

highest-performing nations, Japan and the Netherlands.

In the Netherlands, 14% of high school leavers reached DESPERATE: Graduates the ‘high level’, while 13% reached the same level in Ja- OECD’s Director of Educapan. tion and Skills, said: “This is According to the OECD, the important. When you look at results ‘fit’ with high unem- employment data, you might ployment levels in the south- ask why so many graduates ern European countries. in Spain and Italy are unemAndreas Schleicher, the ployed. But when you look at the skills, it fits. They are actually not particularly highly skilled.”

However Professor Massimo Egidi, an economist from the runs up the highest bills, averaging €899 LUISS Guido Carli university per pupil. Infant school is the cheapest at in Rome, dismissed the link €421, with the average between the results and high cost for primary school youth unemployment. reaching an estimated “The problem is something €698. As many schools else entirely. The problem is start experimenting a mismatch between demand with new technology, and supply. It is not the qualthese costs are set to ity of the supply, but the misrise even more, with match,” he said. parents sometimes havThe results come as little ing to lay out €515 for a surprise, as both Spain and tablet or iPad, accordItaly also came bottom in last ing to the report. year’s OECD rankings.

rankings, with just 12% of graduates reaching a ‘high level’ of literacy and numeracy.

This is compared to an average of 24% across the 22 countries analysed in the annual education report for the world’s richer nations.

Spanish graduates are also, on average, less skilled than high school leavers in the

Back-to-school bills SEPTEMBER means back to the classroom – but families will need deep pockets to finance the start of the new school year.

Parents have to fork out an average of €716 per child to cover the costs of returning to school in the autumn term, according to new figures published by the Tyrius consumers and housewives association.

Spending on textbooks, stationery, uniforms and the other paraphernalia necessary for the new school year is now higher than ever before, with schools that have an obligatory uniform costing the most.

The study concludes that secondary school

321 the olive press - Sept 18 - Oct

38 57

Buzz in the air BSM headteacher Sian Kirkham is excited about the the new year IT has been a great start to the new school year with children, staff and parents thrilled to be back.

Excitement is buzzing in the air as the children catch up with old friends – and make new ones – while they share holiday news and get to know their new teacher and classroom.

The Primary children were particularly pleased to see that during the holiday, the second floor has been transformed with three new classrooms and the year six classroom extended.

It looks amazing and we are so proud to now be a full Primary School. I look forward to soon sharing news of our Secondary campus.

On September 19 we are holding a festival of music and crafts to celebrate International Peace Day, raising money for the International Red Cross.

So the children have been pondering how to ‘live more peacefully’ and discussing current events in the news.

Our Upper Key Stage Two children have been asked:

‘How would you resolve problems with other governments if you were prime minister?’

They are writing letters to David Cameron and Barack Obama with their suggestions.

There are many other exciting events on the calendar this term, including Art Week, Halloween and Diwali; it promises to be a wonderful autumn term at BSM!

READY FOR SCHOOL?: Pupils are buzzing to be back at BSM

Top Salud Macho men, wimpy sperm!

33

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SPANISH scientists have discovered that macho looks don’t necessarily mean macho sperm.

In fact, men with square jaws, strong cheekbones and wider faces tend to have poorerquality sperm than their more femininefeatured counterparts, according to a new study.

Research conducted at the University of Valencia concluded that high levels of the male sex hormone testosterone actually impede sperm production.

Scientists from Spain, Australia and Colombia joined forces to analyse the semen of 50 Caucasian students, then took photos of the men and

Pretty boys have stronger sperm than hunky guys, according to research in Valencia

MANLY: But tough guys´ sperm may not be so great scored them on seven ‘facial masculinity factors’ including cheekbone and nostril width.

They then explored whether there was a link between any

Hold your breath!

SPAIN is among a number of European countries being urged to tackle their air pollution problem.

New research by the European Respiratory Society has highlighted an underlying link between Europe’s poor air quality and an increase in poor lung health amongst adults.

The study evaluated the correlation between air pollution and lung function in adults from the UK, Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Spain and Sweden.

Professor Peter Barnes, president of the European Respiratory Society, said: “Urgent action is needed to tackle air pollution in Europe.

“It is crucial that policymakers in Europe take note of these findings and update guidelines in member states to meet the WHO-recommended air quality standards.

“This will ensure equal protection of all citizens’ health across the continent.”

Killer cocktails ENERGY drinks can lead to heart problems and ‘sudden death’, according to startling new revelations at a Barcelona medics’ conference.

Professor Milou-Daniel Drici told the European Society of Cardiology Congress that the high caffeine content in the popular fizzy drinks can lead to angina, cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) and can even be fatal.

Drici warned against the general public’s attitude towards the drinks, saying that more information needs to be provided.

“The general public needs to know that so-called 'energy drinks' have absolutely no place during

or after physical exercise, as compared with other drinks designed for that purpose,” he said.

“When used in long alcoholic cocktails, the caffeine in 'energy drinks' enables young people in dance clubs or elsewhere to overcome the unwanted effects of alcohol, leading to an even greater intake of caffeine.”

of the ‘masculinity indicators’ and the quality of the men’s sperm.

However, there is still hope for good-looking men, as

men rated ‘attractive’ by both sexes – as opposed to macho – have better-quality sperm than those rated ‘less attractive’, according to the study.

Experts have put forward the theory that there is a ‘trade off’ in which alpha males – the macho men – can see off the lesser males but are unable to compete on the virility front.

Because masculine men can attract more women – according to evolution – they don’t need such high-quality sperm, whereas a man who attracts fewer women needs to maximise his chances.

Wider faces have also been linked with character traits such as aggressiveness, dominance and deceptiveness, as well as physical strength, status and financial success.

Previous studies have also found that men with deeper voices also have lower sperm counts.

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If you are in receipt of a UK state pension or long-term sickness benefit, apply for an S1 form (previously E121) from the International Pension Centre on Tel: +44 191 218 7777. Register the S1 form with your INSS office before you register with your GP surgery and obtain a medical card.

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the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH: Prince Charles enjoying a nice cup of tea

A cuppa ‘longevi-tea’ BRITS rejoice. Drinking tea reduces the risk of dying early by a quarter.

A new study shows that the risk of dying from causes unrelated to the heart falls by

Wine workout

A DAILY glass of wine has long been hailed as a shield against heart disease, but a new study has revealed it only works if you exercise as well.

Volunteers were asked to drink a glass of wine up to five times a week. The most active people were found to get the best result.

Levels of ‘good cholesterol’ rose in both red and white wine drinkers, as long as they hit the gym twice a week.

24% in tea-lovers compared to those who do not partake.

The benefits of tea, according to scientists at the European Society for Cardiology meeting in Barcelona, are due to its antioxidant content.

Lead researcher Prof Nicolas Danchin said: “If you have to choose between tea or coffee it’s better to drink tea.”

The study monitored 131,401 people aged 18 to 95, from January 2001 to December 2008.

Tea had a significant effect on blood pressure, with a reduction in the heavy tea drinkers compared with non-drinkers.

But bad news for coffee fiends who were found to be more unhealthy and more likely to smoke. Non-coffee drinkers were also more physically active, with 45% having a good level of fitness compared with 41% of coffee drinkers.

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Top Dollar

BUSINESS IN BRIEF Grape deal BRITISH-based fresh food specialist Marco has completed its first overseas expansion, merging with Spanish grape producer SAT Moyca.

Chemical brothers TECHNOLOGY suppliers Novatec Solar and chemical company BASF have successfully commissioned a solar thermal demonstration plant in Murcia.

Broadband buyout SPANISH broadband and mobile phone operator Jazztel is in talks to buy the Spanish unit of Swedish firm TeliaSonera for a reported €500 million.

Bank spies

SPAIN’S banks are at risk as regulators check for signs of capital weakness and assess sovereign bonds across Europe.

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

Catalans flock to Scotland for a ‘Yes’ vote CATALAN separatists are flocking to Scotland to cheer on the ‘Yes’ camp, as the region looks ahead to its own referendum.

Hundreds of independence supporters are said to have flown over to help campaign for Alex Salmond.

However their fervour - and that of separatists in Scotland - has been dampened by a series of negative business reports should succession go ahead.

Banks and businesses, including John Lewis, Waitrose and Next, have warned that prices will increase in Scotland with independence, boosting the ‘No’ campaign.

John Lewis Partnership chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield said: “It does cost more money to trade in parts of Scotland and therefore those hard costs, in the event of a ‘Yes’ vote, are more likely to be passed on.”

In further bad news, bosses at the Royal Bank of Scotland confirmed the bank would decamp to London, following hot on the heels of Lloyds Bank, also planning a move south of the border.

Catalunya – like Scotland – believes it is being ‘short-

changed’ by its central government and would be more financially successful apart.

More than 1.8 million Catalans filled the streets of Barcelona for the region’s National Day celebrations on September 11 (right), demanding the chance to hold their own independence referendum.

Red and yellow-clad crowds formed a giant ‘V’ stretching more than 11km, standing for votar (vote) and victoria (victory).

If the Scottish result is ‘Yes’, Catalunya will be watching the Caledonian economy very closely indeed.

RED AND YELLOW: A sea of Catalan separatists and (inset) Scottish thistle

Death of a salesman El Corte Ingles chairman dies, in same week as Santander chief Emilio Botin

TAKEOVER: Isidoro Alvarez (above) while Botin (right) will be succeeded by his daughter Ana (also right)

THE chairman of El Corte Ingles - Europe’s biggest department store chain - has died in Madrid aged 79.

Isidoro Alvarez, who died from heart failure, was described by Spain’s economy minister Luis de Guindos as ‘one of the great businessmen of this country’.

Alvarez, who joined the chain aged 18, inherited 15% from his uncle, Ramon Areces, who launched the company out of a Madrid tailor’s shop.

He took over as managing director in 1966 and became chairman in 1989. Last year, the chain saw sales of €14.3 billion.

His death meanwhile came

By Imogen Calderwood in the same week as that of Santander boss Emilio Botin, at 79.

The chief of the Eurozone’s biggest bank is to be replaced by his daughter Ana Botin, 53 - previously chief executive of Santander UK and a board member since 1989.

Scandal She is the fourth generation of the Botin family to take the top spot and BBC Business editor Kamal Ahmed placed her in the top three most powerful businesswomen in the world, along

with Christine Lagarde at the IMF and Janet Yellen at the Federal Reserve.

Controversy looms, however, following a scandal involving the founding family’s ‘financial irregularities’ at Portugal’s Banco Espirito Santo.

A corporate governance expert at a global asset manager which owns Santander shares remarked: “Succession should not just be about saying ‘my daughter is going to take over and that is that’.”

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35

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

A fresh look for Desigual BARCELONA-based fashion label Desigual celebrated 30 years of production at New York Fashion Week.

As brand ambassador Brazilian model Adriana Lima strutted down the Lincoln Center runway, company CEO Manel Jadraque signalled a more sophisticated vision for the retailer’s future.

Known for its colourful designs and floral patterns,

Jadraque said it was time to ‘reflect on’ Desigual’s past in order to improve for the future.

He said: “It's not a question of disowning the brand's DNA, the patterns, the colours and the mix that is our style.”

“But perhaps it's time to reinterpret them, to do more contemporary and more innovative things.”

RIOT OF COLOUR: Desigual´s show

Costa Women mean business WOMEN on the Costa del Sol have a new opportunity to build their business network, find suppliers and make new contacts.

Launched in Sabinillas today (Wednesday) and led by networking expert Georgina Shaw of Shaw Marketing Services, the event is in association with Costa Women, winner of the Telegraph’s Best British Social Club award in 2012.

The social community Costa Women provides online and offline networking opportunities for more than 3,000 members and it is also free to join.

Held on the third Wednesday of each month at Villa Matilde, the event costs €5 including refreshments.

To register, email info@shawmarketingservices.com or visit www. shawmarketingservices.com

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the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

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Market mumbles

Top Dollar

Keep an ‘aye’ on the pound

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

Checking out

TripAdvisor holds ‘make or break’ power over hoteliers SPAIN’S hoteliers have been under pressure to please this summer, as online reviews have become more powerful than ever.

Online ratings website TripAdvisor is now the most influential travel website in the world and hoteliers have discovered that guest reviews can be make or break for their businesses.

The consumer-led reviews website is now the go-to site for those planning a holiday.

Hotel Molino del Santo has recently been voted the second-best hotel in the whole of Spain by the website.

Andy Chapell, manager of the hotel, told the Olive Press: “We think TripAdvisor is

great. It is very helpful to have so much positive feedback that new clients feel they can trust - and even the occasional less-than-complimentary comments are useful to help identify problems.”

But there is a dark side to TripAdvisor’s new-found influence.

“There are a few cases of overdemanding guests,” said Javier Carazo, of the NH chain, which has 400 hotels around the world and thousands of comments on TripAdvisor.

These include guests threatening to post a damning review on the website if their requests for free upgrades and wifi are not met.

“In these kinds of cases we

TURNING JAPANESE AN influx of Japanese tourists could be on their way to Mijas when town delegates return from a trip to Tokyo to promote the area.

The tourism delegation will meet tour operators and travel agents at the JATA International Tourism Fair to talk up their town as a prime travel destination.

During the fair, councillor Santiago Martin will showcase exhibitions from Mijas’ Centre for Contemporary Art to demonstrate the cultural heritage the Andalucian town has to offer.

The week-long fair starts on September 22 and is regarded as the biggest of its kind in Asia.

WINNER: Molino del Santo fares well on TripAdvisor have to be aware, and not give in to a specific threat.”

Francesc Holgado, director of the Mercer Hotel in Barcelona – ranked the best in the city – receives 60,000 hits a month on its TripAdvisor page.

“To be among the top-ranked hotels gives us a visibility we could never have hoped for otherwise, particularly in the international market,” he said.

He added that with the constant need to respond to customer queries and make changes based on feedback, being a hotelier is ‘more de-

manding than ever’.

TripAdvisor receives around 100 customer reviews and comments every minute.

According to TripAdvisor’s Spanish spokesperson Blanca Zayas, a prospective guest will read between 12 and 15 comments about a hotel before deciding whether to make a booking.

“Hotels cannot ignore customers’ opinions on the internet any more than the receptionist can turn their back on a guest who makes a complaint,” she added.

Road to Riches,

by Richard Alexander

Under-performing investments?

Charges are the hidden enemy, warns Richard Alexander IF you had to guess at the most likely reason for disappointing investment returns, you would be forgiven for blaming the investment performance itself. But that is not always the case.

Over recent months, I have had a number of situations where the actual structure of the investments was the culprit.

In one case, one of my UK clients was persuaded by the Royal Bank of Scotland to put some money into a regular savings ISA. His bank had rightly identified that he was a higher-rate taxpayer but a ‘cautious investor’, and the fund selected was indeed in line with his attitude to risk.

And of course, an ISA is tax free for UK residents. However, when you looked into the charging structure in place, and compare it to the fund’s investment performance, the charges had wiped out all of the growth. In real terms, his tax-free savings would have been losing money as infla-

tion gnawed away at his capital value.

In another example, a new client had an old pension policy dating back many years and, sadly, he had a very short life expectancy. Because his policy was a very old type, on his death only the premiums paid would be returned to his widow. They amounted to a few thousand euros. This was a fraction of the fund value available to purchase pension benefits; or, in his case, to transfer to a new pension plan that would pay 100% of the fund value tax free, on his death, as most modern contracts do.

Before he became my client, one local resident had invested money in a Spanish compliant offshore investment bond. Then he had a change in circumstances, and needed access to his money to return to the UK. He had found a property he wanted to buy but could not sell his apartment in Spain. No problem, the bond had sufficient value.

However he then discovered that, because of the way it had been set up, his bond still had a sizeable early-encashment penalty. This was due to the excessive level of commission his adviser, (another bank) had built into the contract. So the surrender value was still less that the amount invested, despite his funds showing some growth!

Whilst it is not always possible to remedy the situation, as I was able to in the first two examples, it is always worth reviewing pension and investment plans, just to make sure they are offering the best structure for your circumstances.

If you are contemplating new investments now, make sure you understand how the charges work and that your adviser is not building in high levels of commission for themselves which you will end up paying for through the plan charges.

Richard Alexander Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of L J Financial Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK. Contact him at Richard@ra-fp.com

Mark Rickard discusses the influence of the Scottish referendum SHOULD old acquaintance be forgot And never thought upon The flames of love extinguished And freely past and gone?

Is thy kind heart now grown so cold In that loving breast of thine, Than thou canst never once reflect On old-long-syne?

THIS week, all eyes will be on on the Scottish referendum result. The Bank of England – set up by a Scot – and the UK political parties have rallied to defend the 'No' vote.

Salmond and Cameron are pounding pavements to have the last word. Scotland breaking away from the UK has captured the hearts and minds of the British people, however, it will all boil down to money and currency.

Since leading retailers like John Lewis and Aldi declared potential price rises on the weekly shopping bill, the ‘No’ vote has swung into the lead.

Poll results are changing by the hour and price action on sterling is responding to the percentage of votes either way.

Let’s hope the Scottish people keep the Union intact so that sterling will respond positively.

From Europe this week, it will be about gaining some positive data to improve sentiment. Last week there was a smidgin of good news as industrial production rose by 1%.

There is also a chance that the US may raise interest rates on Wednesday with the improving economic climate across the pond.

Keep an eye on the pound.

THUMBS UP: Salmond

Contact HiFX for help with your international transactions Centro Plaza, 951 203 986 or olivepress@hifx.co.uk

AGONY ANT YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

The trouble with aggressive advertising

Antonio Flores discusses which advertising clauses you can and can’t get away with SOME companies are under the impression that, if you insert a disclaimer at the bottom of the ad, you are fully covered. This mistake can have very serious implications, more so considering that an ad forms part of the contract. Let us explore some examples.

Clause stating a ‘limitation of liability for 1. losses sustained as a result of relying totally or partially on this product’: this clause,

shocking as it may sound, was inserted in a brochure issued by a Danish bank that gave inheritance tax advice, and wished to now get away with it once the Spanish Hacienda had concluded it is fraud. The fate of the clause can be explained by reference to the law on the matter: Consumer Protection Act, Article 130: Clauses limiting or exonerating from responsibility in respect of instances of civil responsibility under this Act are not applicable and thus, inefficacious.

2.

Clause ‘advertiser is not responsible for pricing errors or misprints’: this is a clause prima facie deemed abusive and therefore void. An often cited example is the woman who received a printed offer for a luxury car that, although retailed for €45,000, had a price tag of €9,000. The ruling held that the advertiser had not rectified the advert in any form and granted the claimant the right to the car for the price as it had been listed on the advert.

Clause ‘valid whilst supplies last’: this 3 . clause is only accepted in season sales or, generally, provided the consumer is

able to establish the size and duration of those supplies. The aim of ruling on its illegality is to avoid a supplier’s prerogative to stop selling a product, at an attractive price, at their sole discretion.

Representations made on brochures: 4. brochures do have a contractual binding force. A Marbella-based property developer, Erasur S.L., was forced by the Supreme Court (12/7/2011) to return €205,000 to buyers who, having relied on advertised representations of sea, golf and mountain views, bought an apartment that ended up having only mountain views.

The court found that the brochure was not a mere ‘invitation to negotiate’ but a contractual offer for an off-plan apartment.

Responsibility of editors for publish5. ing misleading ads: in a recent ruling, multinational Hachette Filipacchi was

found responsible of misleading advertising for hosting an ad for a miraculous slimming product later found to be deceitful (aren’t they all?). Although they were acquitted in the first instance, the courts applied Article 34 of the Unfair Competition and Advertising Act 29/2009 ordering them to cease and to refrain from hosting identical advertising.

Email Antonio at aflores@lawbird.es

38

Columnists

A cat-and-thrush game

UNDER certain circumstances, the sight of my Dave stripped to his Calvin Kleins can be quite distracting. But not on the hottest day of the year, while shovelling cat litter.

And all because of a bird.

It’s a mad menagerie in our house – three ‘family’ cats, one that just visits (the ‘front door cat’), the occasional passing gecko and, since two sweltering weeks ago, a new addition.

A thrush with a broken wing.

Probably broken by one of our cats.

Belinda Beckett, aka Mistress of Sizzle, dedicates her latest little problem to Sir Elton John “Which one of you’s guilty?” we demand, lining them up in firing squad formation. “Moi?” they mew in innocent denial.

“Purr-lease”.

The bird is grounded in our walled patio garden. Prowled by three felines, it’s a lion’s den to a thrush that can’t fly so

we decide to call him Daniel.

Though he could be a girl. How do you tell, with birds?

What to do with him? The vet says ring the dog pound; the dog pound - full with dogs (and cats) - says ring Seprona (the Guardia Civil’s Nature Protection Service); the Seprona officer says: “Madam, thrushes are not a protected species …” He doesn’t add ‘you stupid woman’ although his tone implies it.

Safer to let nature take its course, I think, remembering a trauma from childhood when Dad rescued a wounded great tit one winter, placing it tenderly in a shoe box on top of the Potterton Boiler to keep warm. Overnight the boiler flared up to max and by morning it was roast great tit.

We decide to supplement Daniel’s diet, although I refuse to dig up worms. What else do thrushes eat?

“A little moist muesli,” says Dave sagely. He knows, you know. He kept canaries.

BROWN THRUSH DOWN: Daniel in the lion’s den

So now our days are spent feeding Daniel while keeping

FELINE FELONS: Belinda’s cats like the idea of ‘doing some bird’

the cats from tearing him to shreds. We lock them indoors at night (hence the daily litter shovelling – in our undies while the heatwave lasts). But a sad denouement seems inevitable.

“Oh my God, bring the cats in, Daniel’s in the middle of the patio again,” I cry, at regular intervals during the day. The daft bird won’t stay hidden in the bushes.

The cats have been dying to get their teeth into one since we moved to Los Barrios, overlooking the Gibraltar

Strait, the Clapham Junction of the bird world. The sight of wheeling storks and hovering vultures sends them into a salivating frenzy and sharing our vac-packed Mercadona chicken just isn’t the same.

They seek the thrill of the chase.

Little Daniel has a thrush in hell’s chance. He’s got a shorter life expectancy than a chicken at Colonel Sanders’ Kentucky ranch. But what else for it but keep up this cat-and-thrush game until the bitter, feather-strewn end?

At least we have a suitable eulogy, thanks to Sir Elton John: ‘Daniel you're a star … do you still feel the pain of the scars that won't heal?’

You’ve got to admit, the lyrics of his 1973 hit are spoton. They even mention flying and Spain … although, unless there’s a bird heaven, Daniel will never be airborne again.

But if the worst happens, and we look up at the sky one night and see red tail lights, maybe in Sir Elton’s prophetic words, it will be ‘Daniel, waving goodbye’.

Water, water anywhere?

YOU may be aware by now that I have an idyllic little place on a reservoir in the hills above Marbella. (As an aside, Che once said that all great revolutions begin in the hills, so when I come sweeping down from the Serrania de Ronda at the head of the People's Republic of Istan, don't say that I didn't warn you).

The Casita del Lago is sonamed because it is right on the lake, which means that in spring I was able to kayak from my garden.

The combination of a very dry winter and the annual

influx of tourists, however, has meant that the level has dropped alarmingly. I don't know what the direct translation for dust bowl is but 'Casita del Polvo' is probably more apt. Rather than the fishermen who normally come down to the lake, the past few weeks have seen enough quads, motocross bikes and 4x4s haring across the dried-up lake bed to give the Paris-Dakar a run for its money.

The real problem at the moment is water. To say that I was somewhat unimpressed when my water tank ran dry

DUSTY LAKE: Summer drought

GLADIATOR’S PIT: Battle through dinner

last week would be an understatement. And I was even more unimpressed when, two days after getting a truck to deposit eight cubic metres of water in the tank, that the taps ran dry again. Due to the, ahem, 'eccentric' nature of my set-up at the Casita, there are roughly 300 metres of water pipes that connect the tank to the house, all of them buried underground. As Brucie would say, ‘Good game, good game’, when it comes to finding the leak!

Luckily (and, some would say, miraculously) I have a rather lovely lady in my life who has graciously let me use her shower (although she draws the line at my suggestion she joins me). But until all is resolved, I'd advise standing upwind from me ...

Dangerous Dining Club

I WENT with a group of friends last week to celebrate a birthday bash on the beach.

And although food in Spain is generally excellent, this particular chiringuito served up some rather unappetising combinations, including what looked like a modernist take on pizza, using pan del dia as the base.

After a particularly ‘interesting’ fish dish came out of the kitchen’s swing doors, the leader of our group was moved to quote Russell Crowe in Gladiator: “Whatever comes through those doors next, we stand a far better chance of making it out alive if we all stick together...”

The waiter then brought out a very greasy-looking squid dish. As one, we all broke for cover!

the olive press

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We tint: cars, mobile homes, offices, conservatories, patio doors, glass curtains, glazed balconies.

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We are a leading building and construction company based in Estepona.

We cover all aspects of construction from residential building, extensions on all types of dwellings, swimming pools, patios, under pinning, roofing, retaining walls, interior reformation to public works such as the construction of offices, streets, shops and much more.

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CLEANers

Bluebell Cleaning Services is an established cleaning company between Estepona and Sotogrande covering domestic cleaning, offices, windows and ironing for hourly rates and availability please call Nicola on 617576412

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FOOD & DRINK

the olive press

YOU COULD BE ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS HERE FROM JUST 8 EUROS AN ISSUE

To place your classified, please call 951 127 006 or email admin@theolivepress.es Yacht services recruitment Recruitment offers All tradesmen,brickies Carpenter,HGV trampers Average earnings €1000 in the UK and europe Regular guaranteed work 1 week or 40 weeks

Hotel Castellar We are looking for a hard working, creative and imaginitive head chef to help develop and maintain high levels of culinary excellence at this rapidly rising hotel.

info@cambscontractors. co.uk 0044 1487822008

The hotel offers a number of dining options from a beautiful 80 cover restaurant, a forty cover courtyard option for the warmer months as well as a poolside bar and restaurant open during the long summer months.

Ad Copy: Acoustic Musicians / Singers Wanted: For session nights in Fuengirola. If you can hold a note or an instrument and crave the craic call Derek on 637358789

The hotel also enjoys a growing wedding, event and private dining market.

The successful candidate, as well as possessing excellent culinary knowledge, must be commercially aware and able to work within a friendly, but highly professional, ‘family’ style of environment.

WANTED

The ability to converse ‘day to day’ in both Spanish and English is essential.

Native English Teacher

Please send your CV (in either Spanish or English) to

Must speak Spanish and be qualified to teach children from ages 9-12

fun place to work!

Contract and paid holidays Contact 649 028 572

The Director Hotel Castellar Calle La Fuente, s/n Castellar de la Frontera Cadiz 11350 or e-mail director@hotelcastellar.com

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49 cents per word. Minimum charge based on 10 words per issue and a minimum of 2 issues. IVA not included All ads include the first 2 words in bold.

For all text in bold add 25% Display boxes Single column display box 38€ per issue

the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014 Double column display box 54€ per issue Three column display box 75€ per issue Full name and passport or NIE number must be provided when advertisements are placed. All ads must be paid prior to publication

garden and landscaping

looking for friendship love or more- help is at hand Outgoing, active, young graduate, early 20s recently moved to the coast, looking for someone to share my love of the region.

Contact me on tompowell0423@ gmail.com

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Pensioner 80 seeks lady 60+ for company/friendship, nationality unimportant...634 141 741

Retired, attractive, NS english woman, WLTM sincere active gentleman for travelling & possible relationship. Email bella10035@yahoo.co.uk Fun-loving 40-something looking for solvent, interesting man, with GSOH. Must love animals...

Contact crazyred@telefonica.net

Find your dream partner from just an 8-euro advertisment in The Olive Press

Tel. 619 591 760

Landscaping and Building projects

Launching our new meeting point column

specialist wines/ foods

Carers

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Call Brendan on + 34 634 355 973 or + 44 7517 325 400 email brendang@live.co.uk

Personalised Labels

Tel: 687 880 199 - 952 817 265

iT SERVICES

(references available)

cars/motoring

Carers

I BUY ANY CAR UK OR Spanish any price cash Mobile vehicle airconditioning, gas recharge, etc

Mobility

THE MOBILITY WIZARD. The only company in southern Spain that specialises in repairing and maintaining mobility scooters, power chairs and mobility products. Authorised repair agents for most European manufacturers. Most repairs carried out at your place of residence, batteries analysed and replaced if needed, tyres supplied and fitted. Summer’s coming, has your mobility scooter been serviced lately? Full service and inspection at your home for just €60. Large selection of mobility scooters available for sale and rent, no deposit required and free delivery. We also offer roadside assistance, we will come to your rescue if you’re unfortunate enough to have a breakdown or puncture, keep this number handy! Tel 633 127 901 / www.mobility-spain.com / info@mobility-spain.com

Email: lauracopetta@hotmail.es

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insurance

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Although Harris Insurance Spain is a new company, owner Evelyn Harris has over 35 years experience, many of them in Spain and is thrilled at the way her new venture has been received, as old and new faces discover the extensive range of products she can offer.

"After managing an insurance brokerage in the UK for a number of years, my husband Alan and I came to Spain in 1986," she said. "After working with different insurers over the years, I can honestly say I am delighted to be working with Liberty Seguros, part of the Liberty Mutual Group, one of the largest insurance entities in the world."

Harris Insurance can arrange insurance with policies in English for all your needs.

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Find out more at www. hispain.es or call now on 952 887 298.

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misc SERVICES THE BOOKEND

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Please call our new classifieds boss Sarah Adams, who has many years experience in media sales. She will be only too happy to help you through the process.

Call 951127006 or 655825683

Local issue 46:The Local Issue 5 5/12/14 7:29 PM Page 59

43 FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK DINING SECRETS ANDALUCIA.com with with DINING SECRETS of Aof NDALUCIA.com

No more ‘Mr Rice Guy’

SPAIN’S classic dish took centre stage at Europe’s oldest, fiercest and most prestigious food competition.

The 54th International Paella Championship was the highlight of the annual 10-day rice festival held in the birthplace of paella, Sueca, Valencia.

The championship drew paella enthusiasts from across the globe, with even Australia sending a four-man team.

The Australians were led by chef Miguel Cuevas from Sydney-based Spanish catering company Flavours of Spain.

Fed up with crap!!!

GOURMET GROWTH: Bluefin being bred in Murcia

Bluefin tuna farm green for go A GROUND-BREAKING bluefin tuna farm is being opened in Murcia to ease pressure on the ocean’s reserves of the gourmet fish.

The regional government and the National Oceanography Institute have invested €6 million to kickstart the captive breeding programme.

Several adult bluefin tuna, weighing up to 150 kilos each, will be kept in four large tanks near the Valdelentisco watercourse in Mazarron.

Their eggs will then be collected and taken to an existing farm for young tuna in Mazarron, a kilometre away from the tanks, to be hatched.

Beers all Ronda!

ANDALUCIA’S ale-drinkers are salivating for the fifth edition of the Allioli Oktober Bier Fest in Jimera de Libar, near Ronda, next month.

With over 60 beers on sale, flamenco dancers in attendance and an assortment of rock and soul performances to enjoy, this year’s festival is set to be bigger than ever before.

Bands include The Stolen Gnomes, Son de Aki and Bourbon Live.

The festival is set to take place on October 11 at Bar Allioli in the plaza San Roque, near the Estacion Jimera de Libar.

ALE OF A TIME: Beer

We offer exactly what it says on the tin

COCOMO Cocktail Bar & Restaurant Reservations recommended

685 218 054 Next to the Senator Banus Spa Hotel

Please mention The Local when responding to advertisements Page 59

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FOOD & DRINK Despite the recession, the Olive Press is distributing 35,000 papers across with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com EIGHT provinces of Andalucia the olive press - September 18 - October 1 2014

ALAMEDA Mobile Home Park • Posada Tempranillo • Petrol Station • Casa Benito ALCALA Conexions Centre • Hotel Torrepalma • Library • Tourist Office • Optico Real • Hotel Zacatin • Estate Agent Andaluz • BP English Food Shop (opposite Mercadona) ALGATOCIN BP Service Station ALHAURIN el Grande Guzman Garden Centre • BP Service Station • Alhaurin Golf • La Boma • 1st Tabacconist • Annas Butchers • Christinas Paper Shop • Arte Hair and Beauty • Martins Paper Shop • 2nd Tabacconist • British Supermarket • Posh Pets • Cudeca • BP Service Station • AID Dog Home • Las Brisas Restaurant • Montemar Restaurant • Lauro Golf ALHAURIN de la Torre BP • Las Brisas Restaurante • Montemar Restaurante • Lauro Golf ALMUNECAR Spar Supermercado • Tourist Office • El Faro Bar • Olivares Shop • Danny s Bar • Bahia Tropical Hotel ALORA Hardware Store • Tropicana • Repsol Petrol • Cudeca • Zalea Bar ALOZAINA Petrol Station •Dia ANTAS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE The Full Swing • El Poligono • Costa Cars • Cepsa ANTEQUERA Lidl • La Veronica • Amapola • Antequera Golf • Tourist Office • Hotel Plaza San Sebastian • BP • Hotel Las Villas de Antikaria ARCHIDONA Cepsa Garage • 3R Café /Bar • Mercadona Garage • Sunset Estates ARDALES Paco’s Bar ARRIATE Petrol Station ATAJATE Andalazar BEDAR (El Pinar) Urb. Offices BENADALID Los Labros BENAHAVIS Canela Cafe /Bar • Amanhavis BENALAURIA La Molienda BENALMADENA Halfpenny Bridge Pub • Kiosko Puerto (Marina) • Tourist Office (main road) • Culture Centre Bil Bil • Paloma Library • Irish Time Bar • Xanit Hospital • UK Foods • Discovery • Rubens xchange • Sunset Beach • Supersave • Miura Bar • Benalmadena Bowls Club • Bar Ibense Fedex/ Post Office • Cudeca • Anns Bookshop • Riu Puerto Marina • Riviera Hotel • Potters Lodge • Kwik Save • Dolce Vita • Crystals • Bil Bil Golf • Dalziel Bar • Bar None • Star Bar • Wellness Centre & Gym • Aguila • Los Brothers • Martins Hair & Beauty • Jupiter • Torrequebrada Golf • Sensara BENALMADENA COSTA Wins Bar • Los Mimosas Golf Bar • Divas • Bull Bar BENAOJAN Meroil • Papeleria Ruiz BENAVISTA Bowls Club • Ibex Insurance • Grumbles • Experience Group • English Butcher • Costa Less Supermarket • Plaza Hotel • Dog House • Brubecks • El Paraiso Golf •Peggoty’s Fish & Chips • Petrol Station • Kids Kingdom • Agro Jardin • Calpe School • Laude International BENAMACARRA Hotel Cortijo Bravo BONANZA SQUARE Anne’s Book Shop • Kwik Save • Dec’s Irish Bar BUBION Supermercado Coviran CABOPINO Pina Pinaka • Cabo Pizza • Sportsmans Bar • Cabopino Camping • Garage • Shebeens Pub • Paper Shop/ Supermarket • Plaza Bar • Alberts Restaurant CABRA Tourist Office CALAHONDA AParty Party • The Pit Shop • GT Mc Kenna Butchers • Mercadona • RBL • Club Naranja • Prensa Piscis CALYPSO MPA Estates (Bryce) • Inspirations Haidressers CAMPILLOS Fernando s Coffee Bar • BP Petrol Station Wildmann-Chard Health & Beauty Centre CAPILEIRE Supermercado Coviran • Cafe Moraima CARTAMA ESTACION Aguamania • Topres CASABERMEJA Petrol Station CASARES Arroyo Honda • The Forge • Venta Garcia • Villas and Fincas • La Tienda •Mi Cortijo • Venta Victoria CHICLANA Tourist Office COIN ROAD The Warehouse Outlet • RMDC Glass • Favel • Tamisa Golf • St Anthonys College • Speedys Garage • Camping Fuengirola • BP Garage COLMENAR CO2 • Bar Campesino •Belen Hotel COMPETA Todo Papel • Pavo Real and Restaurant

We’re coasting

Covering the ENTIRE Costa del Sol and most inland areas of Andalucia More than 30 distribution points in Benalmadena, same in Fuengirola and Marbella/Banus

• Sugar and Spice CORTES Camping el Salitre • Mary Becker • La Fuente CORDOBA Bodegas Campos • Hotel Casas de la Juderia • La Fuente CORTES DE LA FRONTERA Petrol Station •La Fuente CUEVAS DE ALMANZORA (Desert Spring Golf) Restaurant / Clubhouse DIANA Royal Nordic Club • Man Friday Supermarket • Super Market • Aud Dublin • Big BlueBox DUQUESA PORT Paparazzi Neswagents • Supermarket • Las Galleries • English Butcher • Duquesa Golf Club • Paper Shop • Gaston Golf • Manilva Properties • Topline Paper Shop • Clubhouse Bar • La Bella Vista Camping El CHORRO El Kiosko • Hotel Posada el Conde EL FARO El Faro Supermarket • Post Room • Zurich Office • Captains Bar EL ROSARIO German Bakery/Cafe • Da Fabio Restaurant • Mozaic/ Els News • Marbella Golf • The Jeans Factory EL TRAPICHE El Trapiche Cafe/ Bar ELVIRIA Martys Hairdressers • EIC School • Aventura • Amazonia • TFC Restaurant • Studio B • Bar Casi Casi • Regalos Isabel y Paco • Asia Foods • Playwrights • Mancomunidad ESTEPA BP Garage ESTEPONA Longmans Bookshop • Fergussons Bar • Cudeca Shop • Dune Bar • Laguna Village Paper shop • Hospiten • Albayat Resort • Best Coches • Terra Sana • Digi Print Optica Machin • Muebles Gavira • Furniture World • Techno Aluminio • Lidls • Amapola • Tourist Centre • Estepona Golf • International Club of Estepona • Costa Natura • Laguna Village: Entrance • Tibet Clothes Shop ESTEPONA MARINA Sailors Cafe • Business Centre EportBic Universal Estate Agents • The Irish Fiddler Marlow Chip Chop FRIGILIANA Hotel Almazara FUENGIROLA Iceland Store • Scotties Butchers • Specsavers • Cudeca • Dunnes Stores • Yorkshire Linen • Euromarkets Cayetano

(C/ Malaga) • Euromarkets Cayetano (C/ San Isidro) • Euromarkets Cayetano (Av de los Lirios) • Salon Varieties• Old Gold• Marfil• Tourist Office• Fafa Foods• Prensa Iberia• Califonia 7• Cafe Fresco• Dunnes Las Rampas• Opticos Vicente• Anthonys Diamonds• Prensa Maxim • David Bookshop • Spainsburys • Woodys • Yaramar • Prensa Quijote • Joys Pies • Prensa Don Luis • Torreblanca Supermarket • Caravajal Supermarket • Red Dragon • Oasis • Torreblanca Post Office • Wessex Bar • Cheers Bar • Manila Bar • Mananas Bar Tonys Shanleys/ Chequers Golf • Estanco PYR FUENTE DE PIEDRA Bar Rebujito • Corner Bar • Diane’s • Donkey Sanctuary GARRUCHA Clinica Veterinaria • Hostal Timar GAUCIN Repsol Petrol Station • Hotel Caballo Andaluz • Pura Vida Health Shop • Benassim Deli • Fructosa • El Convento • Casa Antonia • La Fuente • El Puente GIBRALTAR Café Fresco • O’Reileys • Ibex Insurance • Morrisons • Elliot Hotel • Sacarellos • ICC Shopping Centre • Cafe Solo • Café Rojo • Colourworks • Rolex • Caleta Hotel • Ibex Insurance GRANADA Airport • Hotel Macia Plaza • La Romanilla • Hotel Fontecruz Granada • Metro Bookshop • Hannigans 1 • Hannigans 2 • Tourist Office • El Catrachod • Jardines de Zoraya • La Alacena de Andalucia • Hotel Palacio de Santa GUADALMINA Tricky Rickys • Bookworld GUARO Petrol Station HUMILLADERO Restaurante Cinco Rios IZNAJAR BP • The Yoga School • Bar Verde JEREZ Tourist Office JIMENA DE LA FRONTERA Cepsa• Papeleria Los Garabatos • Bar Cuenca • La Tasca • Hostal Anon • Bar Oba • Estate Agents • Casa Henrietta JIMERA DE LIBAR ESTACION Bar Allioli LA CALA Cafe Boulevard • Cocinas Plus • Prensa Quetzal • BP Garage • Snack Attack LA CALA DE MIJAS Corner Café • Lions Charity Shop • Pensioners Bar • Internet Café •

Papeleria Quetzal • Captains Bar • Zurich Office • BP Garage LA CALETA Papeleria las Colonias LA COLONIA Euromarkets Cayetano (C/Lagasca) • KSM Properties LA HERRADURA The Hideaway Bar • Libreria Coral • La Tartana Hotel • Restaurante S. Nico LA HEREDIA The Best of Holland • The Dutch Butcher • Panaderia • La Casita • K Bar LA VINUELA Hotel Vinuela • A & N Gas Petrol Station • Bar Atilla LANJARON Cafe Bar Health • Tourist Information • Los Llanos LAS BUGANVILLAS Cactus LECRIN VALLEY E.S Leman Gasolina LOJA Cafe Continental LOS GALLARDOS Subministros Ridao • Gas station • Camping los Gallardos LOS ROMANES Camping Bar LUCENA Carrefour Pet Shop • Hotel Bronces • B.P near the fire stn.

MALAGA CITY British Consulate• Dunkin Coffee (Corte Ingles)• Hotel Tribuna • Pizzeria el Laboratorio • Restaurante Vino Mio • Terra Sana & Gorki restaurants (El Muelle Uno Shopping Centre) • Calle Brusseles • Celtic Irish Bar • Café con Libro • Picasso Museum • Robert Boyd • Plaza Restaurant • Hotel Don Curro • Hotel Molino Larios • Tourist Office • Hotel Vinci •Escuela de Turismo MALAGA AIRPORT Helle Hollis • Car Parking Malaga • Arrivals Information Desk • Monarch MANILVA Manilva Solicitors • English Bookshop • Manilva Properties MARBELLA BP Garage -Marbella Arch • Hotel Fuerte • Swans International School • Vergola • Puente Romano Hotel • MC Cafe Marbella Club Hotel• Ex Polo House • Cocinas Plus • Panorama • International School MIJAS PUEBLO Tourist Office • Town Hall • BP Garage • Mijas Hotel MIJAS ROAD World of Sofas • Centro Idea Danish Centrel • Euromarket MOJACAR PLAYA (Centro Comercial)

Masko Cafe • Habana Cafe•Diego Ortega Notaria • Michael Davis Solicitors • Clinica Dental • Ibex Insurance • Pippas Cafe MOJACAR PLAYA Gas Station • Koi Cafe • Kasbah Romantic • Sal’s • Currency Exchange • Paco Salas Farmacy • El Olivo Restaurant • Total Entertainment • Tomas Supermarket • Mojacar Estates • Beachcomber Restaurant • H Puntazo Hostal • Trufibar • Kimrick Restaurant • Parador • Cafe Bellagio • K7 Real Estate • Price, Brown Partnership • Tourist Office (Playa) Tito’s • Los Arcos Bar • Los Amigos Bar • La Posada • ELC MOJACAR PUEBLO Centro de Arte Municipal • English Library • Bar Pavana •Bar Habanero •Bar Cherigan MOLLINA Bar Margarita • And Estates • Brit Shop • Lazy Days Mobile Home Park MONDA Paper Shop • Petrol St. •Design Academy MONTEFRIO Alan Russell MONTE HALCONES (Ronda Road) One Stop Café • Irish Café MONTEJAQUE Las Casitas MOTRIL Café AL Campo • Tourist Office Los Moriscos Golf • Bar/ Rest Moriscos • Gran Elba Hotel NERJA Hotel Carabeo • English Book Shop • Supermercado Iranzo • Smiths Bookshop • Tourist Office • John the Barber • H2O Bar • Keyhomes Estates Agents • Team Estate Agents • Olas Bar • Cocinas Nerja NUEVA ANDALUCIA Aloha News • Garden Bar • Yanks • Wilsons • Alberts • La Sala • HIFX • Mad Hatters • Terra Sana • H10 Hotel OLVERA Petrol Station • Dynos • Olvera Properties • Via Verde • Rest. El Puerto ORGIVA Indoor Market • Camac • Internet Café • Alpujarra Supermercado • Baraka •Limonero PAMPANEIRA Cafe Alfonso PERIANA Cantueso •Verduga PITRES Camping • Bar La Taha • Bar Frenazo

PIZARRA Spa • Aliprox PRIEGO DE CORDOBA Tourist Office • Kiosko Maribel Cepsa Garage PUENTE DON MANUEL Moreno’s • Ian Petts Dentist • English Shop • Arkwrights PUERTO BANUS Corte Ingles • Bookworld • Iceland • Cravings Cafe • Starz Cafe • La Sala • Mad Hatters • Yanks • Asiatic Food • HIFX • Studio B • Aloha News • The Garden Bar • Terra Sana H10 Hotel • Hairworks • Currencies Direct • Kristina Szekely estate agent Guey • Skybar PUERTO REY (VERA) Club Deportivo • La Esquina RINCON DE LA VICTORIA Tourist Office • Hotel Rincon Sol Anoreta Golf RIO FRIO Hotel Almazara RIOGORDO Coviran RIVIERA DEL SOL Miraflores Bowls Club • La Terraza Supermarket • La Terraza Paper Shop ROAD BETWEEN CAMPILLOS AND RONDA Meson Diego • Petrol Station Cuevas del Becerro • BP Garage RONDA Almocabar • Bar San Francisco • Tourist Office • Atrium • Chocolat • Casa Ortega • To-Toro • Traga Tapas • Hotel Maestranza • Hotel Colon • Hotel Polo • Hotel Don Miguel • Locutorio • Serrania Services • Libreria Dumas • Huskies • Heaven Irish Pub • Pedro Romero RONDA ROAD Monte Halcones One Stop Cafe • Irish Cafe RUTE Estanco SABINILLAS English Bookshop • Eden • Visage Hairdresser • Coast to Coast Properties • Bar • Lidls • Kwasi Bar • Curtain & Bedding SALINAS Casa Monolo • Meson Estacion SALOBRENA Best Western Hotel • Post Office Antonio Machado • Tourist Office Plaza Goya • 1616 Books SAN PEDRO Tourist Office • Passion Café • TRE Radio Station • Staysure SAN ROQUE San Roque Golf Suites Reception area and golf clubhouse • Okay cafe • Supermarket SAYDO MARKET Angela Sat • Bakery • Chrissy • Hotel Reception SIERRA DE YEGUAS Kiosko SITIO DE CALAHONDA Club Naranja RBL • Plaza next to Paper Shop SOTOGRANDE GUADIARO Newsagent • Corner Café • Lemon Tree Café • Estate Agent • English Butcher Shop • Sotofiesta • Business Centre NH Hotel • Abbeygate Insurance • Mara Rest. • Anglo Wines SOTOGRANDE MARINA Videola • 50K Bar • La Brasserie • Hairy Lemon • Hotel Maritimo • Midas TARIFA Tourist Office TOLOX Cross Road Bar • Vent Garradena TORRE DEL MAR Papeleria el Faro • English Bookshop Pasatiempo • Expatriate Help Centre • Lukuma • Baviera Golf • Las Yucas • Cudeca TORREMOLINOS Tourist Offices x 2 • Cudeca Town Centre • Baileys BP Garage • Parador Golf Hotel • Parador Golf • Riu Belplaya • Shennanigans • Hotel Melia • Rubens Exchange • Nigel & Cheryls Rest. • Cosy Nook • El Mojito • Toms Tavern • Wellness Clinic • Fig & Olive • Full House • Talk of the Tyne • BP Garage TORROX Russels English Shop • El Pino English Shop • Light of India • Tourist Office TURRE Fundraiser Shop• Zambra • Casa Diego • Total Entertainment • Tio Tomas •Connexions UBEDA Golden Poppy English Center VEJER Tourism Office • Califa • Camping Vejer • Monte Medio Golf • Barca de Vejer • Castilleria Restaurant VELEZ MALAGA Garden Centre La Palma • Eroski Centre • Bar Jamaica • Dunnes • Pronumatico VERA Iceland • Galasaa VILLANUEVA DE ALGAIDAS La Bodeguita VILLANUEVA DE ROSARIO Bar • Bar • Town hall VILLANUEVA DE TAPIA La Paloma Rest.

VILLANUEVA DE TRABUCO Ronnies • La Plaza • La Rubia • El Rincon de Teresa • Trabuco Books YUNQUERA Petrol Station • Bakery ZAHARA DE LA SIERRA Al Lago

STOP PRESS.... NOW AVAILABLE IN CORTE INGLES IN PUERTO BANUS AND MC CAFE IN MARBELLA CLUB HOTEL... AND GOING EVERYWHERE ON THE COSTA DEL SOL... CONTACT US AT OUR COSTA DEL SOL OFFICE TO GET EXACT DISTRIBUTION SPOTS AND NUMBERS ON 951127006

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FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Serrania de Ronda’s freshest new restaurant

More than a ‘petit’ charm

CLASSY: Owner Tina pours the champagne while (below) guests mingle at the glamorous party

A WHITE picket fence and a blossoming tree that lights up at night sets the mood at Le Petit Bistro – Nueva Andalucia’s charming new dining venue.

Owner Tina Amal Jouat was on hand to serve cava and canapes to a range of the coast’s leading movers and shakers.

A hard-worker with many years experience grafting in the restaurant trade, she is ensuring that the food quality is absolutely tip top.

“I have worked for five years in Morocco, seven in Switzerland and quite a few in Spain, so I know what I am doing,” she explains.

She is certainly taking no chances with the cooking, having taken on two French chefs, one from Lyon and one from Paris.

Open from from 4pm to 2am, the style is decidedly French, and the food delicious.

“I am happy with the restaurant and am sure it will do well,” continues Tina. “We are organising a few parties and other events,” she adds.

Come and see what Gordon did next!

Views to Gibraltar and Africa

Reservations: +34 951 709 075 reservations@lagranadadivino.com

www.lagranadadivino.com

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46 FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Seasons greetings SEASONAL: the streaky ‘grated aubergine’, plums and parsnips

Autumn means a whole new influx of fruit and veg for the pot IT is undeniable that the cooler mornings and threat of rain can mean only one thing, autumn has finally arrived.

Spain has a great range of seasonal fruit and vegetables

on offer, and one definite advantage of the changing seasons means a whole load of new produce for the cupboards.

Pomegranates (granadas),

SOUR TASTE: Growers already missing last year’s record harvest

Whining winos WINE growers in Ronda and the Mollina/Fuente de Piedra zone are already lamenting a poor grape crop as harvesting continues.

In Ronda the harvest is expected to be down 41% on last year’s record-breaking numbers and in Mollina/Fuente de Piedra growers are bracing themselves for a 50% decrease on last year’s bumper six million kilo harvest.

But do not despair… Despite the lack of quantity, experts are predicting an increase in the quality of grapes which will go some way to make up for the lack of numbers.

Harvesting started at the beginning of August and is due to end before September is up.

figs (higos) and mangoes are just a few of the fruits to be looking out for.

On top of this there is likely to be an influx of plums (ciruelas) – both green and red – and the mysterious ‘caviar citrico’, a citrus fruit whose insides look bizarrely like caviar.

Autumn’s vegetables meanwhile are perfect for ovenbakes and hearty stews.

Look out for chard (acelga), aubergines (berenjenas) and their streaky-purple cousins the grated aubergine (berenjena rallada), and the old favourite, the parsnip (chirivia).

And you can’t forget the mushrooms – the hongos and setas – that really come into their own at this time of year.

The angula del monte – translated as eel of the mountain – the lengua vaca – cow tongue – and oreja de judas – or ear of Judas – are all ones to look out for.

Breakfast of champions

ANYONE missing their Great British breakfasts has a new port of call in Duquesa.

Wiltshire couple Michelle and Allan Beard have launched the Portside Bar Cafe in Duquesa serving breakfast from 8am as well as lunch and bar snacks.

Feeling strong? Try the ‘Belly Buster’ breakfast, which only three brave people have so far managed to finish.

Hotelier and Hoteli-HER

Unconditional love WE love all of our guests… obviously.

We appreciate those that return year after year – some of them many times each season.

It really makes us feel wanted and reassures us that, while there is always room for improvement, we are doing a good job.

It is always satisfying to help our guests in any way we can – within reason... This week though, we had a lady visitor who by her own admission was ‘mad!’

Such refreshing honesty. And how, you may wonder, did this madness manifest itself? Well, there were various examples, but on the final day of her visit she was sitting on a sunbed trying to squeeze toothpaste from one tube into another. No mean feat...

When I asked why, she told me that it was due to weight restrictions on her flight home.

The customer is always right, of course.

Hotel - Bar - Restaurante. Bda Estacion s/n, 29370 Benaojan, Malaga. 952 16 71 51 - 952 16 79 27 . info@molinodelsanto.com

www.theolivepress.es

47

FOOD & DRINK with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Total rehaul PROBLEMS IN Advertorial

PARADISE

EXCLUSIVE: Hotels and restaurants are being offered an expert makeover to ‘enter the 21st century’, writes Imogen Calderwood

Two Major Issues You Need to Know About

THE Costa del Sol’s tourist industry is about to get an overhaul, if hospitality expert Chris Chapman has anything to do with it.

Think Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares, but for hotels and restaurants in Spain... and with less swearing.

Chapman, a Fellow of the UK’s Institute of Hospitality, has decided to take on the poor service offered in ‘far too many’ restaurants and hotels around Andalucia.

Starting in the Ronda area, the 78-year-old hopes to encourage bosses and staff to improve their offering to tourists, learn how to smile, and be more helpful.

Called CEPA, the idea was sparked after putting up with poor service for a decade while living in the Ronda area.

“It’s a shame because we have a lovely culture here and spectacular landscapes, but we don’t have the service industry to match,” he said.

“Too often I’ve seen grumpy

SMILE: Chapman’s company will retrain waiters waitresses treating tourists like idiots and the managers and owners either haven’t noticed or cared.

“The translation of menus is terrible, the food is not hot, there are so many problems,” he continued.

“One place we went to yes- ly setting up a restaurant conterday the waitress put the sultancy business in Devon wrong food on the table, then and Cornwall in the 1990s. went outside and had a beer While officially retired, he is and a smoke. That is not wait- setting up CEPA with a numing tables.” ber of friends, including a loChapman, from Wiltshire, cal English teacher. continued: “It is a three- He has already had good legged stool… I want to help feedback from local busithem get ambience, service nesses. and quality of the food right. “I’ve approached a lot of busiIt is very important.” nesses and many seem keen,” “When I came here I thought he explains. “I’ll be visiting this country was 25 years be- them and assessing what they hind, but in fact it is more like need to change, then I will 50 years behind… they need write up a report and they can to bring things into the 21st act on that.” century.”

Another important factor is Chapman started his career making staff feel more needas a chef, before becoming ed in their roles. a restaurant and later hotel “Then the repeat visits will manager. come rolling in.”

He worked in catering for the For more information, call army and police, before final- Chris on 627 600 052.

Hotel Castellar We are looking for a hard working, creative and imaginitive head chef to help develop and maintain high levels of culinary excellence at this rapidly rising hotel.

The hotel offers a number of dining options from a beautiful 80 cover restaurant, a forty cover courtyard option for the warmer months as well as a poolside bar and restaurant open during the long summer months.

The hotel also enjoys a growing wedding, event and private dining market.

The successful candidate, as well as possessing excellent culinary knowledge, must be commercially aware and able to work within a friendly, but highly professional, ‘family’ style of environment.

The ability to converse ‘day to day’ in both Spanish and English is essential.

Please send your CV (in either Spanish or English) to The Director Hotel Castellar Calle La Fuente, s/n Castellar de la Frontera Cadiz 11350 or e-mail director@hotelcastellar.com

FROM OUR BENAOJÁN CORRESPONDENT

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Ronda area’s favourite hotel and restaurant.

Just an hour from San Pedro you will find an oasis of peace and calm. A personallymanaged hotel and restaurant in a stunning location where you can enjoy great food and wonderful service.

Featured on TV travel programmes, chosen

by Jamie Oliver when he visited Ronda for a special meal, recipient of National and International awards, voted number one Hotel in the whole of Andalucia on Trip Advisor, Molino del Santo is a very special place.

Many guests return year after year - some many times in the same season - to enjoy the delightful ambience and the relaxation that the hotel offers. Others head on the train from San Roque to eat in the riverside restaurant under fig and willow trees on flower-filled terraces - the food is exceptionally good, just like the location.

But there are problems in paradise! One is that the hotel closes every year over the winter - and this year, the closing dates is fast approaching.

The 9th of November sees Molino del Santo close until March 2015.

FREE

Another problem is that the whole hotel has been rented exclusively by a group this month and all departments are closed from the evening of the 18th September until the 21st. So you need to plan your visits away from those dates.

Do head to the hills soon. Reservations are advisable but there is always someone to help you in English when you call or e-mail.

Choose your special date to make a visit to Molino del Santo – but don’t leave it too late. We hate seeing grown people cry.

info@molinodelsanto.com Tel. 952 16 71 51 “We’ve been meaning to visit for such a long time – and now we feel cross that we didn’t discover earlier just how wonderful Molino del Santo is.”

Molino del Santo closes on the 9th November 2014

Guide to 101 Great Ideas to Enjoy the Ronda Area - Available NOW - e-mail info@molinodelsanto.com for your copy

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EDDIE THE HOTEL DOG’S THORTS

I want to change my owner. For weeks he’s been saying it’s too hot to walk except for mornings and evenings but now that it’s getting cooler and normal people can walk all day, he’s damaged his back paw. Something about Achilles heel, whatever that is.

Fortunately there are other people who care about dogs and take me out but you do wonder sometimes.

Thort of the day: Life is like a dogsled team; if you ain’t the lead dog, the scenery never changes.

Mention my name for a FREE gift when you visit Molino del Santo.

Follow us on Facebook for Special Offers Hotel Molino del Santo www.molinodelsanto.com | info@molinodelsanto.com | 952 16 71 51

Vuelta King SPAIN’S Alberto Contador claimed victory at the Vuelta a Espana, finishing over a minute ahead of second placed Chris Froome and compatriot Alejandro Valverde after more than 70 hours of cycling.

FINAL WORDS

Royal party HAPPY birthday Queen Letizia, who turned 42 on Monday. It has been a hectic year for the former journalist, who has been busy with Royal visits since becoming Queen on June 19.

Rip-off city BARCELONA has been named the most expensive city in Spain for tourists to visit, according to a survey by travel website TripAdvisor.

Terror threat SPAIN’S security agencies have stepped up their efforts at key sites across the country as the government raises the level of jihadist terror threats in the country from low to high.

the

Covering Andalucia in 2014 with over 200,000 papers EE (130,000 digital) and around 300,000 visits to the R F website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!

olive press Holiday of a lifetime

Telephone: 951 127 006

September 18- October 1, 2014

www.theolivepress.es

HONOURED: Maggie

Maggie plaza

WHILE half the country back home is more likely to want to dance on her grave, in Madrid the authorities have just honoured Margaret Thatcher with a square.

The former British prime minister’s son Sir Mark Thatcher attended the unveiling of Plaza de Margaret Thatcher in the upmarket Salamanca area of the capital.

The square is the first in Spain to be named after an international female politician.

Madrid is already home to streets and squares honouring Dwight Eisenhower, Salvador Allende, Nelson Mandela and Yitzhak Rabin.

Curiously it is the second place in Madrid to bear Thatcher’s name – a public school in the Barajas district was named after her last year.

Grandparents in their 90s are set to become jetsetters for the first time HE’S a 93-year-old war veteran, she’s his 91-year-old wife who has never stepped foot on a plane.

And now they are about to embark on their first ever overseas holiday together... to Benidorm.

Charlie and Madge Pallett, from Kent, have previously only taken holidays in British seaside resorts.

That is all set to end when they fly in for a week at Hotel Sol Pelicanos, where hit British TV series Benidorm is filmed.

The great-grandparents of

POOLSIDE FASHION: Charlie, ready with his swimming trunks

BEAR-ATED: Circus worker to face probe

Bear stop

A THIRSTY circus worker is facing a police probe after he left his bear tied to a lamppost - to go to the pub.

The duo had been lined up to appear at the annual circus festival in Carcer, near Valencia.

But when the show was cancelled due to bad weather, the unnamed owner took himself - and his furry friend - to a local bar.

Mummy’s boy seven are being accompanied by their daughters Doreen, 67, Yvonne, 65, and their granddaughter Leigh, 46.

While Charlie has flown once before - being evacuated from Germany during the war Madge is very nervous about

the flight and ‘going into the unknown’.

“Madge has never set foot on a plane and she gets very anxious on public transport, you can’t even get her on a bus. I fell off my chair when she said yes to the trip,” he said.

BRITISH DENTAL CLINIC

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THE ‘selfie’ phenomenon that dominated early 2014 is being brought back from the dead. Literally...

A gravedigger from Alicante, has been suspended after posting a picture of himself grinning with the mummified corpse of a man dead for 23 years.

Celestino Reyna was pictured with the dead man’s nephew after he dug up the corpse.

The 55-year-old gravedigger has been suspended from his position and moved to another role at the council while an investigation is carried out.

By having specialist dentists in each and every field of dentistry working under the same room in a hospital environment, no matter what the dental problem, we have the expertise to take care of you, whether you have dental phobia or you need just a simple cleaning.

Our reputation speaks for itself.

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We’ve got the answer - visit us for more information CENTRO MÉDICO QUIRÓN, AVDA JESÚS SANTOS REIN NO 19. 29640 FUENGIROLA.

For a Free Consultation - Tel: 952 58 48 58 www.ladentalclinic.es

DEAD GOOD: Gravedigger with corpse