The Olive Press Newspaper Issue 172

INTRODUCING OUR ‘DECADE OF SUCCESS’ PULL OUT ON PAGE 23 Earpiece Don’t let the Don’t let thein banks cash new size banks cash in 39mm www.hifx.co.uk www.hifx.co.uk xsee 50mm page 13 see page 13

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Vol. 7 Issue 172

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October 16 - October 30 2013

New demolition of expat homes again causes anxiety around Andalucia

Nightmare returns TWO more British families have seen their dreams turned to dust after their properties were demolished in Andalucia.

Lawyers and expat associations all expressed their outrage after the owners saw their investments tumble to the ground with no sign of compensation. veloper in good faith nearly In what could constitute a decade ago.

SHATTERED DREAMS: Poignant posessions, while (top) the digger moves in a human rights abuse, the The two owners, fearing pair – thought to be Frank yesterday’s events, had alwhich had constructed them later they sold them to the EXCLUSIVE Doke and Peter Hegarty – ready moved back to the in 2004 without a licence. unsuspecting Brits.

By Alex Iszatt and had been given just 30 days UK and given up all hope It has been claimed that all The owners of the company Brian Sherwood, to remove their possessions that the dream of a refour houses built in the Las are reported to be awaiting from their homes, in Can- tirement home in the sun in Cantoria Terrenas area were unofficial- sentence over the case and toria, Almeria before the would be fulfilled. ceived any compensation - ly signed off by former mayor have been ordered to pay the bulldozers moved in.

Two near neighbours, we would just like to get our Peter Llamas – who has since homeowners compensation They had never been of- both English, were also exmoney back and be able to been sentenced to two years for the loss of their homes. fered any alternative ac- pecting their homes to be have a bit of a life as this has in prison and 23 months’ commodation by the Junta, knocked down at any time. disqualification from public gone on for eight years now.

Bankrupt which ordered the action.

Asking to remain anonyoffice for his involvement in And this despite buying the mous, one told the Olive According to sources howthe case. homes from a Spanish de- Press: “We have never reHeart attacks Llamas had certainly given ever, they have now declared “My health has suffered and permission to supply the elec- themselves and the company I have had two heart attacks tricity and water to the homes bankrupt.

– even though official plan- Cantoria Town Hall lawyer due to all the stress.”

Similar to the Priors, who ning permission had not been Alfredo Najas meanwhile denied the fault lay at its door. famously saw their home given. knocked down in nearby Incredibly, construction be- “We had never given the Vera in 2008, the group had gan on the homes despite an homes proper planning perunsuspectingly bought their investigation already having Turn to page 2 homes from a developer FPM, been launched, and a year

Read more on page 40

Gong for Mobo

HE has not been seen nor heard for two months since his radio station took a ‘summer break’.

But Maurice Boland is set to bounce back after it was announced that the iTalk boss is due to pick up an award next week in recognition of his work with the Spanish Red Cross.

Boland will receive the Bronze Medal at the Red Cross 2013 Award Ceremony in Marbella on October 22 in recognition of his charity work on the Costa del Sol. Last September his controversial FireAid concert at the Hotel Puente Romano raised over €18,000.

We’re going for him

GIBRALTAR’S leader could be under secret surveillance

by Spanish spies.

In what could cause a major new political incident, it has been claimed that the Spanish secret services may have been shadowing Fabian Picardo for months.

The enclave’s First Minister, who has two homes in nearby Sotogrande and Benahavis, may have been followed, according to the report by website El Confidencial.

Garzon

In the same article an unnamed government minister is also reported as saying Spain is ‘after’ Picardo.

“This guy has crossed the line, we are going to go for him” it quotes the source.

The news comes as it emerged that Picardo was taking advice from former judge Baltazar Garzon, as he gave a controversial speech to the UN in New York about Spain’s Turn to page 13

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CRIME NEWS

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Costa manhunt

CRIME SCENE: Cascadas de las Lomas

A SCOTTISH couple are being hunted by police after a British pensioner was viciously attacked in her own garden.

The 65-year-old, who has

EXCLUSIVE

By Alex Iszatt not been named, was left with a broken hip and broken arm after being

Police search for Scottish couple following horrific assault on British pensioner

punched to the ground in her own garden.

According to witnesses she confronted the couple after they jumped a wall and trespassed through the private

Judge set to rule if Souter was ‘serial child abuser’ A COSTA journalist has been described as a ‘dominant predator’ and a ‘serial child abuser’ during the summing up of his trial in the UK. Mijas-based writer Mike Souter is facing a long jail term after being accused of 19 sex attacks against seven boys at Norwich Crown Court.

Souter denies the charges, as well as claims of possessing indecent images of under18s.

In his closing speech, prosecutor Andrew Shaw said the journalist was obsessed with young boys, particularly those in uniform.

He added that his ‘perverted and deviant sexual practices’ were ‘inextricably linked’ with the charges he was fac-

ing.

“He is a dominant predator seeking to cajole young teenage boys into his world, a serial child abuser” he said.

Throughout the trial Souter has denied being attracted to young boys and said none of the alleged incidents happened.

Defence barrister Andrew Hill said the prosecutor was a fantastic story teller but much of it was fantasy.

“My client was publicly humiliated in this court,” he said. “At times he was not the best of witnesses. He was argumentative, fearing the trick question.”

But he said to the jury: “Do not simply write off the defendant.”

ACCUSED: Souter Hill said there had been collusion between a number of alleged victims and their delay in coming forward was significant.

The judge is summing up the case this week.

Demolition nightmare

From Page 1

planning permission,” he insisted. “We regret the decision of the Junta - it will bring further ruin to the area because the British are not going to trust anyone to purchase homes in Almeria.”

And he is not alone. Philip Smalley, President of homeowners rights group SOHA, in the Axarquia, added: “We totally condemn the Junta. The homeowners were not the guilty party, the promoter was, so how can you demolish a person’s home without first ensuring that they have somewhere else to live and that appropriate compensation has been paid?

“Once again the government of Andalucia tarnishes the image of Spain abroad.”

Illegal home campaigner Maura Hillen, from AUAN, added: “These people have invested more than €3million in Spain and in return they are being treated disgracefully by a system that simply does not protect them.

“I am sorry to say that this is not an isolated case. Many thousands of illegal homeowners will now continue to live in fear of demolition. This has made matters worse”.

PITIFUL: Possesions in a pile

urbanisation in Calahonda.

The victim, who was visiting her holiday home when the ordeal took place, has now returned to the UK for treatment.

The couple, believed to be in their mid-thirties, allegedly mocked the woman as she cried out for help and the man punched her again as she tried to get up.

“This is a truly sickening assault on a lone elderly woman who was left hospitalised with multiple injuries,” neighbour Paul Grimshaw told the Olive Press.

Dog walkers

“The individuals concerned need finding and taking off the streets for a very long time.

“My neighbour has never caused a fuss in the years she has been holidaying here.”

He added that the couple appeared to have taken a short-cut over the campo, linking Cascadas de las Lomas to Urbanisation Alcores de Calahonda.

But he insisted that the route was only known to residents and dog walkers, suggesting the couple may know the area well.

The Scottish man was also heard shouting: ‘I f***ing live here’, when challenged by the woman.

Police have appealed for anyone with information to get in touch.

Boozer bashes bobbies THREE Guardia Civil officers have been injured while carrying out a routine breath test on a motorist in Marbella.

One policeman suffered a broken hand and strained tendons, while his colleagues were left with cuts and bruises after being assaulted by the man.

The driver, who was found to be twice over the alcohol limit, was charged with assaulting officials and drink driving.

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Ronnie on the Ramblas?

A Rolling Stone may not gather moss but one of them has put down roots in Barcelona.

Guitarist Ronnie Wood has bought the entire floor of a listed building in the centre of the city.

Wood started house-hunting in Catalunya in March with property advisor Marie Harrison.

She also looked at properties

Kylie not so lucky

in Sitges and the Costa Brava, for him according to estate agent Andrada Camelia at Lucas Fox. “Ronnie is one of the most famous personalities in the world,” she said: “Although I am used to dealing with very high profile clients I found that Ronnie and his wife Sally to be two of the friendliest

LOVE

split 1

No more doubles LOVE

split 2

Baby Bard PENELOPE Cruz has been spotted cradling her new baby in Madrid.

The 39-yearold actress gave birth to daughter Luna in July.

The baby is Cruz’s second with her husband, fellow Spanish actor Javier Bardem.

and funniest people I have ever met”.

The musician, 66, was seen at a party at the Lucas Fox Barcelona Headquarters, along with his wife, 34-year-old theatre producer Sally Humphreys and his manager

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ROLLING IN: Ronnie (far left)at Barcelona party with Sally. Here the Ramblas

Pop princess splits from the Spanish beau she described last year as ‘The One’

by Claire Wilson KYLIE Minogue has been left devastated after splitting up with her Spanish boyfriend.

The 45-year-old pop princess blamed the breakdown of her relationship with model Andres Velencoso on work pressures.

The pair, who had been together for five years, had been spending less time together as Kylie worked on a new album in LA. The singer has also recently signed a deal to be a judge on UK talent show, The Voice.

Velencoso, 35, has been equally preoccupied with his efforts to carve out an acting career.

A friend claimed that the split had been amicable.

The pair met while filming an advert for Minogue’s perfume range in 2008.

Only last year she proclaimed the Spaniard to be ‘The One’.

ENRIQUE Iglesias and Anna Kournikova have called time on their 12-year relationship.

The 38-year-old singer and 32-yearold former tennis star first got together in 2001.

The couple had been living together in a €19 million mansion in Miami.

And at Marbella’s Starlite festival earlier this year, Iglesias described the Russian as a ‘good girl’ who wasn’t worried about getting married.

But sources claim that the former world number eight had got tired of waiting for her beau to propose.

Dance like the celebs

A CLUB promotor in Marbella famous for its celebrity clientele has released an album.

Sintillate, which has welcomed the likes of One Direction, JLS and Bruno Mars, has put together a selection of tracks from its popular beach parties.

Sintilllate has also featured on TOWIE and is famous for its ‘champagne spray’ parties.

Sintillate Marbella Anthems will feature 60 tracks ranging from deep house to electronica.

GIFT FROM GOD DOTING parents Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez have named their new baby son Maceo – a tribute to his paternal grandfather.

The name is from 9th Century Spain, meaning ‘gift from God’, which later evolved into Mateo, and Matthew in English.

Actor Olivier is the son of former boxer Roberto Martinez - a Spaniard who was born in the Spanish Protectorate in Morocco.

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Food fight

the O INVE live Pres s STIG ATES

GLAM: Chef Ewald and Shirley Bassey WHEN neighbours Carole Hewitt and Isabel Greenwood moved to the Marbella hills, above La Canada shopping centre, 13 years ago there was nothing but peace and quiet.

Their villas look over protected woodlands above and sea views below. It was idyllic, until one of the properties transformed into a restaurant and ruined their tranquility.

Now the British pair are in a constant battle with the German owner, Ewald Fichthaler and the town hall, and it is taking over their lives with claims of noise, parking issues and even abuse from diners and staff.

Making over a dozen complaints about noise this year alone, they are furious that the town hall and police are doing nothing to clamp down on the restaurant,

Residents at war with local restaurant, where Shirley Bassey and other leading celebrities have eaten Nueva Kaskada.

However, the twist in the story is that Fichthaler, a former chef for the British royal family who trained with Anton Mosimann, believes he is also a victim.

Too loud

Already fined by the town hall for noise infraction, he has been forced to put in new sound barriers and keep the

EXCLUSIVE

By Alex Iszatt

music level below two decibels.

“We have limiters on the premises, which cuts music when the music gets too loud,” he explained. “And, of course, we finish the music at midnight; we have to pay them more after 12!”

He also claims to have gone out of his way to appease the neighbours since taking over the lease two years ago.

But, last night, he admitted that he had pretty much given up and confirmed that he had recently successfully sued the pair for harassment.

After the trial earlier this year the two women were found guilty of harassment, and are expecting fines of €1000- €1500.

NOISE: The bar and live music “It is terrible. I can’t walk away from my car without them being there,” he said.

“I don’t want any more problems and I have told my staff not to go near them.

“They will not be happy until I have been forced to close.”

The battle with Fichthaler – who counts Shirley Bassey and other celebrities as friends - began when the restaurant was given a ‘temporary’ license to play music from the town hall soon after it opened.

Permitted

Renewed each year, the license states that the restaurant is allowed music from 1pm until midnight, seven days a week, and live music twice a week. But Fichthaler insists he doesn’t take advantage of the license and that the restaurant only has live shows twice a week, unless there is an event such as a wedding.

The neighbours however, cannot understand how the license gets renewed when there are so many complaints against the restaurant.

Hewitt, from North Wales, has put through no less than 10 denuncias against the restaurant this year and last week alone called the police three times as music played

It could be you!

past midnight.

“How can the town hall call it temporary when they give a license for eight and half months a year, with automatic renewal, playing music 10 hours plus a day?”

She claims to have had various meetings with councillors over the matter and has submitted video proof to the town hall.

Most annoying of all, she claims, they have only sent noise inspectors out during the day and not during the night, when police have ‘frequently’ been called.

When the Olive Press contacted Marbella town hall, it claimed not to have seen the video and a spokesman insisted they had been ‘more than generous’ in dealing with complaints.

It added that it had already fined the owner and insisted he put in better sound-proofing.

But the neighbours insist the case boils down to one thing: money. “These problems are serious,” said Hewitt. “We live in a Type II area, which means that it is sensitive to a high level of noise and the town hall should be more concerned.

“There is no doubt the town hall is benefiting from allowing this restaurant to remain open. We hope people understand our plight.”

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Hitting the buffers A CONTROVERSIAL high speed railway testing track has suffered a setback after being omitted from budget plans.

The project, near Antequera, which has been criticised by environmentalists as it would damage a large area of valuable farmland, known as ‘the vega’, would see trains being tested at speeds of up to 520kph.

But the majority of the €86m budget allocated to rail network firm Adif for next year will be spent on finishing the Bobadilla to Granada high speed line.

Other infrastructure projects which have received funding include the second runway at Malaga Airport (€37,7 million) and a south airport access road (€4,8 million).

Meanwhile, general road maintenance has accounted for €6.6 million of the central government’s budget allocation for schemes in Andalucia.

Madrid will invest a total of €188.5 million in the region in 2014, nearly €100 million less than 2013.

The figure is almost a tenth of the €1.2 billion that was allocated in 2008, before the financial crisis took hold.

The test track was due to become operational in 2015 but now faces an uncertain future.

SET BACK: Train on track

SHOPPERS could win a prize at a newly re-opened charity shop.

Baratillo Beneficio, in San Pedro, is offering its 1,000th visitor a €20 voucher. The store is run by volunteers for the benefit of Aspandem, which provides daily care, education and accommodation for physically and mentally handicapped children and adults in San Pedro.

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FEATURE

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

OPINION

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the Olive Press INVESTIGATES

Demolition nightmare JUST when you thought someone might have banged some common sense through the ears of those that run the Junta, another round of demolitions takes place.

With an estimated 300,000 illegal homes scattered around the region, is it really sensible – or right – to persecute four more British owners in Almeria, who spent three million euros here in good faith a decade ago.

Knocking down these homes and leaving their dreams in tatters is just one more nail in the coffin for the fragile Andalucia property market, that is awash with hundreds of thousands of empty and half built homes.

No-one doubts that they were built without the correct paperwork, but it was a decade ago, and it should not be the innocent buyers left to suffer.

Surely the Junta should be leaving the small man alone and going after the big culprits?

The ones that build on beaches, or inside nature reserves...Or perhaps both, as in the case of the 411 room Algarrobico hotel in, where? You guessed it, Almeria.

Making it personal IF the summer of 2013 is to be remembered for one thing, it will have to be for the misery and chaos at the Gibraltar border.

Observers predicted that all the fuss would die down by autumn, when the Spanish parliament resat and politicians in Madrid had more weighty issues to contemplate.

But they reckoned without the special talent that Gibraltar’s Chief Minister has for upsetting those in Madrid.

Fabian Picardo’s speech at the UN in New York mentioned Spain’s ‘invasions’ of territorial waters and drew an outraged response from politicians.

There were even mutterings from certain quarters that they were going to ‘get’ Picardo. And after recent press articles tried to find something amiss about Picardo’s financial history and property dealings Madrid seems to have found a new hate figure.

Uplifting THE Olive Press was once wrongly described by a jealous rival as a ‘depressing mountain paper’ that only criticised Spain and reported on bad news.

So how nice to be reporting on some genuinely good news this issue about how the country is finally inching its way out of recession after four dark years.

Even more uplifting is our supplement ‘A decade of Success’ which celebrates a dozen businesses that have survived – and in most cases – thrived during the recession.

It is hard to launch a successful business in even the most positive of markets, so those that have made it through a decade of ups and downs really deserve an extra special pat on the back. Navigating the worst economic downturn in history has required a flexible and solid business plan...and an awful lot of hard work.

It’s great to see that it all paid off for them. Here’s to the next decade.

Got a news story?

Contact our team of journalists in our Costa del Sol office on 951127006 or 691831399 or email newsdesk@theolivepress.es

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The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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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.

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High-profile campaigns warning about the dangers of ‘balconing’ have failed to stop the British death toll from rising in Spain, reports James Bryce.

D

Dying for a holiday

ESPITE suffering a fractured skull, broken bones and shattered teeth, Jake Evans knows he is one of the lucky ones.

The 20-year-old fell from a seventh floor balcony in Spain following a boozy night out with his mates.

The youngster had been drinking heavily and lost his balance, while playing around on the balcony.

“I hit every balcony on the way down, as they jutted out like steps,” said Evans.

“I landed on a sun lounger which broke my fall and probably saved my life. I then remember coming to in complete agony.

“I fractured my skull, broke a front tooth, which pierced through my upper lip, snapped my right wrist and broke all the fingers on my CAMPAIGN: Diver Tom Daley (left) right hand.

“I hurt my back which was ex- don and Craig Knapp, 31, luf after the father-of-three cruciating and cut a consider- from Dundee both fell to their jumped from a 10th floor baldeaths from balconies in Mal- cony. able hole in my leg.”

An amateur rugby player Mr Yet he added: “Looking at the lorca. height I fell I know I am lucky Alan Clare, 34, from War- Clare was killed after falling rington, suffered the same from a fifth floor balcony in to be alive.”

The Liverpudlian is one of a fate in Benidorm, while Benidorm shortly after arrivgrowing number of Britons to 24-year-old Grant Weston, ing in the resort on a stag do. have been either killed or in- from Pembroke, died after He is thought to have been jured after falling from hotel plunging 50ft from a hotel in trying to climb onto the balcoIbiza. ny from an open window after balconies in Weston, a locking himself out.

Spain. p r o m i s i n g In total, eight Britons have Many of the Each tragedy follows a footballer, is died from balcony falls in accidents familiar pattern - one thought to Spain in the last four years. result from of excessive drinking, have fallen Kevin Louis, from Blackburn, attempts to followed by Facebook while trying was killed after falling more climb betributes to reach his than 30ft from a balcony in tween balcoroom from an Mallorca in 2010. nies, or after adjoining bal- The 27-year-old lost his grip jumping from cony after forgetting his keys. after challenging his mates them into hotel pools.

The trend, known as ‘balcon- Ousby died after falling from to count how long he could ing’, is popular among young- a fire escape in the party re- hang from the ledge following a drunken night out. sters and is often fuelled by sort of Magaluf.

Tragically, just hours earlier Charlotte Faris, 23, Benjamin drink and drugs.

This year alone 14 British he had tweeted: ‘Magas all Harper, 28, and 20-year-old people have suffered falls in good. Coming home some- Adam Atkinson, all suffered this way, four of which have time this week though, me similar deaths in Magaluf last thinks.” year. been fatal.

Thomas Ousby, 19, from Lon- Knapp also died in Maga- A further 43 British nation-

als have suffered injuries including fractured skulls, punctured lungs and broken bones in the same period.

The list is seemingly endless.

Each tragedy follows a depressingly familiar pattern - one of excessive drinking, followed by Facebook tributes from friends and family.

The British Embassy has become so concerned with the problem that it has launched various campaigns warning Britons about the risks.

One such initiative, fronted by 19-year-old Olympic diver Tom Daley, urged youngsters to ‘leave the jumping to the professionals’.

Daley said: “Diving has to be carried out in a controlled environment.

“You can’t do it jumping off rocks and balconies…you are going to get injured.

“If you are diving off balconies into pools, you don’t know how deep the pool is.

“You don’t know how far the

FEATURE

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Alan Clare

Grant Weston

THE SAD DEADLY TRUTH BEHIND THESE SMILING FACES Adam Atkinson

Charlotte Faris

Tom Ousby

Craig Knapp

gap is as it can be deceiving.”

But the high-profile efforts to reduce the number of casualties seems to have fallen on • Never sit or lean over the balcony railing deaf ears following the latest • Do not try to pass items to someone on another spate of accidents. balcony All of which adds up to a ma• Do not attempt to climb from one balcony to jor headache for consular another staff who spend countless • Never stand on balcony furniture hours offering practical support to grieving families.

• Never jump into the pool from your balcony “Consular staff in Spain have this year assisted in a number of cases of very serious backed by travel association tel balcony. injuries – including some ABTA, which is keen to limit “We want people to enjoy fatal – caused by falls from the damage caused to busi- their holidays but would adbalconies,” said a British Em- nesses operating in balcon- vise them to think about the bassy spokesman. ing hotspots in Spain. ramifications of their behav“Such inciThe trade body, iour abroad. dents are which counts “Incidents such as these “Incidents such as often the reoperators such have devastating consesult of people these have devastating as Thomas quences for holidaymakers being under Cook and Easy- and for their families.” consequences for the influence jet among its As for Jake Evans, the youngholidaymakers and of drink or members, also ster has been left with perfor their families.” drugs. offers advice to manent reminders of the “We strongly holidaymakers dangers of fooling around on urge people about travel in- balconies. to be aware of the risks and surance.

“Drinking most definitely afthat balcony accidents do Nikki White, ABTA’s Head of fects your judgement,” he happen – with awful conse- Destinations and Sustain- said. “Had I been sober I’m quences. ability, said: “We are urging sure I wouldn’t have made “Your travel insurance may young holidaymakers to think the same decision. not cover the potentially about the potential risks of “The accident has changed very large costs that can re- balconies. my life - I have recurring probsult from a balcony fall while “We see too many people lems with my back and right you’re under the influence of permanently injured or worse wrist and the doctors have drink or drugs.” because they’ve tried to told me I probably always The campaigns have been climb over or dive off their ho- will.”

STAYING SAFE:

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He was not a suitcase

by Alex Iszatt

A SPANIARD is suing an airline after claiming his dog died while in its care.

Fernando Javier Ramos was left distraught after his British bulldog, Nano, succumbed to dehydration during an Air Berlin flight.

Ramos claims the airline refused to put a bowl of water in the cage and left the dog outside for an hour.

Nano and his master were due to fly from the German capital to Sevilla in July.

But Ramos was taken to one side by airline staff prior to takeoff and was told his dog needed veterinary assistance.

After demanding to see Nano, Ramos was shown the body before being offered a discount voucher by way of an

LAST FAREWELL: Picture taken before going onboard apology.

“They treated Nano like an object, a suitcase, instead of

a living being,” said an inconsolable Ramos.

A spokesman for Air Berlin said: “We aren’t allowed, by law, to give water to animals before and during flights.”

Ramos is claiming €2,635 in damages.

The pink pound

Costa chameleons

CHAMELEONS are to be reintroduced to an area near Manilva as part of a biodiversity programme.

Some 15 native creatures are being released into the local area, where it is hoped they will breed.

The distinctive lizards, famous for their ability to change colour, will be fitted with microchips to allow scientists to monitor them.

The chameleons can also be seen, if you can spot them that is, in Manilva’s ‘ecological reserve’.

Embargo no go

Lawyer denies Princess house has been embargoed

lion of public funds as part of the Noos case.

His wife, Infanta Cristina, is also facing charges of fraud and money laundering after evidence revealed she had access to the money.

But Mario Pascual Vives, representing the prince, said he had received no notice that the Pedralbes residence in Barcelona had been seized.

He added that two other properties in Palma and Terrassa had not been embargoed OFFERS: For sale or not for sale either.

A LAWYER representing the King’s son-in-law has denied reports that Princess Cristina’s house has been embargoed.

Her husband Inaki Urdangarin is embroiled in a corruption scandal over allegations he embezzled nearly €1 mil-

HOMOSEXUALS are being targeted by a marketing campaign aimed at boosting spending in Madrid.

Gay people make up 10% of world tourism and last year spent €700 million in Spain.

According to tourism minister Ana Isabel Marino, homosexuals spend 40% more than the average Spaniard.

Madrid is expecting huge profits when it hosts the 31st World Gay Tourism Convention 2014.

Expats should help themselves BRITAIN’S outgoing ambassador to Spain has told expats they must learn to help themselves.

Giles Paxman, who will step down from his post later this month, said that Brits living in Spain could avoid ‘dramas’ by being better prepared.

The 61-year-old stressed that the consular service in Spain - the world’s busiest - has a duty to focus on the most serious cases.

“If you’re living here you can prepare for the sort of difficulties you might face so that if those difficulties do occur, they remain simply difficulties and don’t become dramas,” said Paxman.

“A lot of British people who live here don’t speak Spanish and I understand that, but more and more local authorities do have people who speak English.

“We have to focus on the most serious and demanding cases.”

Last year, Britain’s consulates in Spain handled more than 6,000 cases.

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News IN BRIEF

Catalans’ Tricoloured toro call for unity MORE than 160,000 people have staged a demonstration in Barcelona calling for a unified Spain.

The march, backed by the PP, called for Cataluna to remain under the control of Spain’s central government.

The rally enjoyed a significant increase in the turnout compared to last year, when 100,000 people took to the streets.

But the movement remains in the minority, with political parties supporting the cause representing just 20% of the seats in the Catalan parliament.

It also comes a month after 1.5 million people staged a similar protest calling for Catalan independence.

Booking up THE public library in Las Lagunas, Mijas has received a donation of 230 English-language books. Contributors included St Anthony´s School, Julian´s Bookshop and members of the library.

Appy days

ONE of the Costa del Sol’s most iconic landmarks has caused a stir during Spain’s national day celebrations.

The silhouetted Osborne bull in Fuengirola had been decorated with the distinctive red and yellow of the Spanish flag to mark the occasion.

But residents woke to find the structure had undergone a

makeover during the night turning it into the old tricoloured flag of the Republicans during the civil war – an anti nationalist symbol.

Order was soon restored and the landmark, which is protected as an item of cultural interest, was returned to the colours of the national flag.

Take him back

Olive Press investigation finally leads to government action

UK Pensions minister Iain Duncan Smith has personally intervened in the case of a benefit cheat exposed by the Olive Press two years ago.

Smith has demanded to know why Norman Brennan was allowed to continue living in Spain despite fleeing the UK in 2008.

Brennan, from Liverpool, had admitted to a £120,000

9

benefit fraud but had spent the last five years living in Mijas.

He admitted to Liverpool Crown Court that he used his brother’s name to claim housing and council tax benefit, Jobseekers’ Allowance and pension credits.

The government has now intervened after Sky News confronted Brennan this week

EXCLUSIVE having picked up our exclusive story.

The Olive Press became aware of Brennan in 2011 after the police, government and Junta all failed to act on tip offs from Brennan’s neighbours.

When quizzed at the time

by the Olive Press, the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) said: “It would be great to track down Brennan who is awaiting sentencing for fraud.”

But no further action was taken against the retired joiner, despite him remaining at the same address and even receiving post from the pensions department.

Cartama Town Hall has launched a phone app allowing residents to report incidents including traffic accidents, environmental abuse, blocked drains and floods.

Transsexuals The Andalucian courts are investigating the treatment of transsexual children in schools following reports three centres have stopped children changing their names.

Tasty crop The first batch of black garlic will go on sale this year. Huelva farmers have been growing the bulb, which tastes sweeter than white garlic, to sell to the Asian FRAUD: Brennan and (left) market. website on Sky News

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

Footage fool

10 News IN BRIEF

Search continues POLICE are yet to find the body of murdered Marta del Castillo as the youth found guilty of the killing continues to change his story about where she is buried.

Errors The Andalucian Health Council has admitted there may have been errors in the treatment of a young Polish vagabond and has opened an investigation into the death.

Shooting A Moroccan man has shot a British tourist on Tenerife.

Police in the San Miguel region of the island are appealing for witnesses.

NEWS

New Maddie appeal

www.theolivepress.es

Reconstruction filmed in Spain sheds fresh light on disappearance A RECONSTRUCTION of the abduction of missing Maddie McCann, filmed in Spain, has led to possibly hundreds of new leads.

An incredible 500 people contacted police after the film went out on BBC’s Crimewatch programme on Monday.

It had been made last month at an unspecified location in southern Spain, using actors

CHANGING YEARLY: Maddie at three and what she could look like today and with the complete knowledge of Maddie’s parents.

Police are now said to be looking at suspects in particular in Germany and Holland, where the appeal also went out in both languages.

A sensational new pair of e-

Golden visa Spanish property sales are forecast to return to pre-recession levels in the final three months of the year after the government approved plans to grant foreign investors Spanish residency.

THE SAME MAN: Efits released by police

Torturous process A MAN accused of torturing victims during the Francoera has been found living a quiet life in Madrid.

Antonio Gonzalez Pacheco was known as ‘Billy the Kid’ for his habit of using a gun to beat victims.

Witnesses told stories of how Pacheco (right) would tell his victims how much he enjoyed hurting them.

His depraved actions continued after the war when he joined an anti-terrorism unit, helping to fight the Basque separatist group, Eta. Settling down in Madrid he now works for a private security firm, where he is said to remain employed to this day.

Burglars

Last month Argentine judge Maria Romilda Servinie de Cubria called for his extradition, along with three other alleged Franco henchmen.

While two of his co-accused are now dead, Pacheco and another former police officer, Jesus Munecas Aguilar, could now be summoned by Spanish authorities.

Masters in Mijas PICASSO and Salvador Dali are to pay a visit to the Costa del Sol as part of a new exhibition.

The showcase, entitled Picasso, amigos and contemporaneous, is to be the first show at Mijas’ Centre for Contemporary Art, which opens next month.

Among the exhibits will be the largest collection of Picasso’s ceramics in Spain.

Besides the two household names, the exhibition will also feature a number of Japanese artists including Foujita, who was a friend of Picasso.

The work of George Braques and others who

fits were also released of the possible kidnapper/s – as it emerged that mother Kate probably missed the abduction, in Praia de Luz, on the Algarve in 2007 by a matter of minutes.

The two e-fits were originally produced by private detectives working for the McCanns back in 2008 but were never issued.

In particular, detectives want to trace two unidentified men – with blonde or fair hair and possibly German or Scandinavian – who were seen in the vicinity of the Ocean Club, where the McCanns were staying.

Based on several sightings, they issued two e-fits which ‘may or may not be the same person’.

One is of a thin white man, aged 30-35, with spots on his face possibly caused by shaving.

On both occasions he had on black sunglasses with a thick frame and was wearing a black leather jacket.

The second e-fit, based on a description by a different witness, was again near the McCanns’ holiday apartment.

helped shape Picasso’s artistic and family life will also be on display.

The centre has been funded through an agreement between Mijas Town Hall and the Rejmedios Medina Foundation, which owns a collection of art.

Police described the response to the Crimewatch appeal as ‘truly unprecedented’ with officers now sifting through more than 300 calls and 170 emails.

One suspect in particular – believed to be German – was seen carrying a child 500 yards from the McCanns’ holiday apartment by an Irish couple.

The appeal comes after a two year review of the case by the Metropolitan Police involving 37 officers and a total of 16 visits to Portugal.

Police are now offering a £20,000 reward to anybody who provides information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those involved in Madeleine’s disappearance.

While the Portuguese investigation is officially closed, authorities there are backing the Scotland Yard inquiry, with a team of six Portuguese detectives based in Faro.

One line of inquiry is that the youngster could have been snatched after disturbing burglars.

In the three months leading up to her disappearance, there was a four-fold increase in ‘low level’ burglaries in the complex.

Police however, still believe her disappearance has ‘all the hallmarks of a pre-planned abduction’.

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

GIBRALTAR NEWS

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Footie First

GIBRALTAR’S under-19 national football squad became the first team to represent the Rock in a European Championship Qualifier since Gibraltar was accepted as the 54th nation by UEFA. The team began with with a friendly against the Bulgarian national team. Against tough opposition, Gibraltar lost 6-0 but put up a credible performance.

The team are now in the Czech Republic to compete at the European Championships.

The squad of 26 including players and coaching staff are in Group 1 among host team Czech Republic, Croatia and Cyprus.

Gibraltar’s team captain John ‘Jack’ Sergeant said: “It’s going to be really tough but my message to the team is to go there taking everything we’ve learnt over the last five months and to give it our best shot.”

Comedy Rocks Comedy Rocks will bring together three acts from the UK over two nights at the John Mackintosh Hall Theatre, in November.

GIBRALTAR NEWS

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

A lack of respect THE storm of protest over Chief Minister Fabian Picardo’s speech to the UN last week continues to rumble on.

Spain’s deputy prime minister Soraya Sáenz de Santamaría insisted Picardo had displayed ‘a lack of respect’ toward Spain’s law enforcement agencies and to Spain in general.

“I think that the statements speak for themselves,” she told reporters.

Spain reacted furiously when Picardo used the phrases ‘police and military incursions’ and ‘shots fired’ to illustrate Spanish aggression toward Gibraltar during his address to the UN’s Fourth Committee.

The Spanish Government has now said it is making a formal diplomatic protest to the British Government and would write formally to the chairman of the Fourth Committee

Lawyers stole millions from their clients THREE brothers who ran Gib law firm Marrache & Co allegedly stole millions of pounds from their clients over many years, the Supreme Court has been told.

The claim was made as the prosecution delivered its opening submission in a multi-million pound fraud trial stemming from the collapse of the firm.

Prosecutor John McGuinness, QC, said Marrache & Co went bust in February, 2010, in ‘a rather dramatic fashion’ owing ‘millions and millions of pounds’ to banks, clients, employees and companies with which it did business.

The total amount owed by Marrache & Co when it was placed into liquidation was around £40m, of which nearly £27m was owed to the firm’s clients, the court heard.

Spain slams chief minister’s claims about ‘police and military incursions’ at the UN

urging him to take ‘appropriate steps’.

Arsenio Fernández de Mesa, the director general of the Guardia Civil, described the comments as ‘indecent’ and said Spain was exercising “impeccable restraint in the face of provocation from the Rock.”

Yesterday two Spanish police unions said they would take

Spies are us From page 1

bullying.

The so-called ‘super judge’ was forced to step down in disgrace over his handling of an investigation into government corruption last year.

The Gibraltar Government insisted the claims might explain some ‘peculiar coincidences’ recently and roundly condemned the comments, describing them as ‘a threat’ against the leader.

It added it would be taking legal advice on the matter, as well as making a report to the Royal Gibraltar Police.

legal steps against the Chief Minister following his UN statement.

The Gibraltarian government has complained that Spanish politicians had focused solely on two or three phrases of a much longer speech that spoke about the need for constructive dialogue for the benefit of communities on both side of the border.

13

Gib IN BRIEF Brothers at Sea BROTHERS Cecil Ladislaus and Paul Ladislaus have served at sea with each other for the first time since Cecil, 36, left home 18 years ago. The brothers are serving on HMS Mersey.

Mini Olympics Over 500 children took part in this year’s MiniOlympiad at the Bayside Complex organised by the Royal Gibraltar Police.

ON the Rock

Olive Press guide to the best of What’s On in Gibraltar over the next two weeks

October 16

Art Lecture – L S Lowry Organised by the Gibraltar Decorative and Fine Arts Society O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel 7.30pm For Further information contact Claus Olesen on 20002024

October 17 - 19

2nd Gibraltar International Jazz Festival Featuring Jools Hollands, Gilson Lavis, Melanie C, Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall

and more For further information visit www.gibraltarjazz.gi

October 22

The History of Gibraltar in Five Parts: Part 4 – History of a People Museum Lecture by Tom Finlayson John Mackintosh Hall Theatre 8pm

October 25 - 27

The Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival For further information visit www.gibraltarliteeraryfestival.com

14

NEWS EXTRA

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

Match fixing mafia Football president believes Spain is becoming ‘like the Wild West’ with at least eight matches fixed per year

THE president of Spain’s top football division has made explosive match fixing claims.

Javier Tebas believes at least eight matches in Spain’s top two divisions are fixed each season.

In an interview with the BBC’s World Football Show he said he believed the problem was caused by international mafia.

“It sounds easier for players

with financial problems to be corrupted but we cannot generalise it,” said Tebas.

“It happens also with those who earn a lot of money who are comfortable, but I am trying to eradicate the black sheep in La Liga.

“If we do not eradicate it now, it will become like the Wild West with no laws no control.”

He added there needs to be

severe punishments for those found guilty, and spoke of lifetime bans for players and coaches involved in corruption.

His remarks follow those

Schooling is key to social equity, says Junta boss

Education pledge

PRESIDENT: Diaz

JUNTA president Susana Diaz claims that education is ‘the most powerful tool to ensure social equity’.

She added that it is ‘the best investment we can make’ and promised to continue providing financial support to disadvantaged students.

The regional government provides funding to the public university, with more than 5,000 students passing courses each year.

“Today more than ever, college is a vital institution in the development of the social and economic model we want for our country,” Diaz said.

made by the head of the international police organisation, who said law enforcement agencies around the world are behind the battle against match-fixing.

Criminalising tarot and cyclists MADRID is cracking down on the poor in its city centre – by fining them.

The council will be handing out fines of up to €750 for activities including begging, reading tarot cards and performing acrobatics with a bike.

The clampdown will also apply to protestors setting up long-term camps in Puerta del Sol, making it much more difficult to repeat the 15-M protests which took place there in 2011.

Last year the council added a levy to choosing plastic at the till and gambling, as well as fining anyone who rode a skateboard, let off fireworks, drank or offered massages in the city centre.

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Police eviction was over the top ANDALUCIA’S housing chief has criticised the police over the forceful eviction of 13 families from a squat in Malaga.

Amanda Meyer questioned the need for police intervention in what she described as a social issue rather than one of public order.

The group, including 12 children, had been squatting in the otherwise disused building for eight months.

Witnesses accused the police of using excessive force against them.

One report said the police broke down doors and smashed windows, while another claimed they arrived in 15 vans.

The families were forced to move into the squat in February after becoming unemployed and losing their homes after failing to keep up with mortgage payments.

Following the evictions, Malaga Social Services announced that 11 of the families would receive economic help.

Nazi group in ‘persecution’ complaint

Fascist flea market

NEO-NAZI groups have gathered in Malaga to protest against the arrest of far-right leaders in Greece.

Members of Golden Dawn were detained on charges of belonging to a criminal organisation.

The protest, attended by 20 people outside the Greek embassy, was against what they described as the persecution of nationalists.

“We are being persecuted because we are Nazis,” said one of the speakers. “Fascism is not an illness.”

FASCIST memorabilia sold at a flea market has caused outrage.

Posters of former dictator Francisco Franco and Nazi swastikas were available to buy among the usual brica-brac in Quijorna market, Madrid.

Permission for the event, which was held at a statefunded school, was given by PP mayor Mercedes García.

The local leader had even visited the event personally, but had apparently not noticed the offensive items on offer.

GREEN NEWS

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

GREEN AWARD

Flocking in A HUGE influx of pink flamingos helped break all records for the Fuente de Piedra lake this year.

More than 26,000 birds, from 24 species, flew into the clear waters of the lake, near Antequera.

Flamingos represented 39% of the birds, with herons and storks the second most popular.

Green agreement SPAIN has agreed to help Kazakhstan develop its green economy.

The central Asian country has set out plans to modernise using renewable energy sources.

Prime minister Mariano Rajoy struck the deal following a request for assistance.

Rajoy said: “Kazakhstan strives for sustainable development and I am sure environment issues are set to play a greater role in cooperation of the two nations.

“Spanish companies possess advanced green technology.

“They have actively applied the technology in Spain and are widely exported worldwide, including to Kazakhstan.”

He added: “Cooperation with Kazakhstan has been more than satisfying, notably in urban waste recycling.”

Spanish exports to Kazakhstan have substantially grown in the last three years, doubling in 2011 and growing by 68% in 2012.

Super clean 20% of energy used in Andalucia comes from renewable sources

LEADER: Solar farm

15

RENEWABLE energy accounts for nearly 20% of energy consumption in Andalucia, according to the government.

The Minister of Economy praised the Andalucian government’s commitment to a sustainable energy model.

It said that it had helped to generate jobs and reduce Spain’s dependence on foreign energy.

The government claims that since 2000, the use of renewables has also helped to reduce CO2 emissions by 42% per unit of electricity produced.

It is estimated that in 2012 there were 44,980 jobs associ-

by Claire Wilson ated with the renewable sector.

Andalucia is a national leader in a number of renewable technologies.

These include solar thermal, biomass power generation and the use of biomass for heat.

It is also among the top regions for the use of photovoltaic, wind, biogas power generation and hydropower plants.

On certain days of the year, the region produces nearly all its energy needs from wind power.

A TECHNOLOGY firm has been awarded a top sustainability certificate for its offices.

Interxion, which specialises in IT, operates from a building designed to maximise energy efficiency.

The Madrid-based company was handed the LEED Gold certificate for its use of redundant cooling and power systems. Minimising the building’s carbon footprint was also a key part of the architect’s brief.

“Data centres consume large amounts of energy and so it is very important to rationalise waste disposal and use energy from renewable sources,” said Interxion spokesman Robert Assink.

Shaky ground AN offshore gas plant has been ordered to stop operations after causing more than 100 earthquakes in two weeks.

The operation, based off the Castellon coast, has created tremors including two measuring more than 4.0 on the Richter scale.

Spain’s industry minister Jose Manuel Soria said there was a direct link between the tremors and the injection of gas into rocks on the seabed.

The ministry has launched an investigation into the tremors, which occurred in an area not known for seismic activity.

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

AXARQUIA NEWS

16 News IN BRIEF

Poet appointed POET Francisco Ruiz Noguera has been appointed the new director of the Maria Zambrano foundation.

Cave workers Workers in the Nerja Cave Foundation have completed an ‘introduction to caving’ course.

Velez visitors Velez-Malaga will open its first tourist information office at the end of the month.

www.theolivepress.es

Feria Queen

THERE was no shortage of kings and queens at this year’s Nerja feria.

Participants of both sexes battled it out for the top prizes at the annual beauty contest.

Naila García was crowned Nerja Feria Queen 2013 and also scooped the Miss Photogenic title.

Laura Garcia was elected First Lady and Miss Elegance.

María Narváez was elected Second Lady and María Muñoz collected the title of Miss Congeniality.

With only four male contestants, everyone came away

LOOKING GOOD: The winners with an award of some kind.

Antonio Lopez was the clear favourite, being elected Caballero de Nerja 2013, Mr Photogenic and Mr Elegance.

Enrique Gonzalez was Primer Caballero, with Matthew Bishton as Segundo Caballero and Ricardo López as Tercero Caballero and Mr Congeniality.

Ex-mayor facing long stretch

Road works Road works will begin this week in calle Chaparil, Nerja, between calle Antonio Millón and calle Jaén.

Pool row The Socialist Party has denounced a plan to privatise Torre del Mar’s indoor pool.

Going to ground A 55-year-old gardener has been hospitalised after falling while trimming trees in Frigiliana.

CORRUPT: Alba faces 22 years in jail

A FORMER mayor is facing the prospect of life behind bars for corruption.

Jose Manuel Martin Alba, the ex-leader of Alcaucin Town Hall, is facing several charges in relation to the Arcos case.

These include fraud, embezzlement, forgery, bribery, money laundering, forgery of official documents and influence peddling.

The prosecutor has called for Alba to be sentenced to 226 years in jail, with 49 other defendants also in the dock.

Among them are lawyers, architects and relatives of Alba.

The case revolves around 90 crimes that were committed between 1999 and 2010.

The group stand accused of falsely selling land and taking back-handers during Spain’s construction boom.

Drugs clampdown Two drug gangs closed down in Velez Malaga A POLICE investigation has led to six men getting a total of 21 years in prison for the

importation of marijuana into the Axarquia.

The men were arrested while

using a series of boats based out of a marina near Velez Malaga.

In total police found 440 ki-

Sky’s the limit

A SKYDIVER has raised over €5,000 for a charity in Andalucia.

Kim Edwards took the leap in aid of Carlos Haya Hospital in Velez Malaga, where she underwent treatment for Leukemia.

Edwards, who has worked at Arkwrights shop, in Puente

de don Manuel, for a decade, was diagnosed in 2007 but was given the all-clear in February 2008 following several rounds of chemotherapy.

“Throughout my stay in hospital I was treated with so much kindness and I re-

ally wanted to give something back to the staff and the hospital,” said Edwards.

“At present there are three local people on the ward, they really do save lives.”

By Alex Iszatt los of hashis when they raided their homes.

They had managed to infiltrate a series of messages between them and their contacts in Morocco.

In the messages they found out times of delivery, cost and the amounts to be delivered.

Meanwhile, cocaine and marijuana have been seized in a drugs bust in Velez-Malaga.

Four men were arrested at two properties as part of the three-month operation, which had focused on drug dealing in the area.

Police discovered 3.4 grams of cocaine and 10.9 grams of marijuana along with equipment used to prepare the drugs.

End of the road

THREE streets in Velez-Malaga will be redeveloped to improve the town’s image.

The roads have been eroding for more than 50 years, and contain various ‘lumps and bumps’, according to a town hall spokesman.

Materials will be used that replicate the current roads to ensure they fit in with the surrounding area.

Funding has been divided between the municipality and the Junta, with a budget of €147,661.

The mayor has said that Portichuelo Street and Vahey Frederick Street are near completion.

Gigantes will be the last street to be finished.

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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18

LETTERS

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

Hells Angel Hilary

POTTED POINTERS

THANK you for your very interesting piece on the ‘Dark Ages’ referring to speeding fines......

I received a fine through the mail in September, for ‘speeding’ in Malaga in JUNE! I was supposed to have been doing 54 in a 50 area.

I have been driving since I was 17 and never had a fine, reading your article does make me wonder if it was legal or not. I was wondering also why it had taken them so long to send it to me in the first place, but only gave me two weeks to pay it.

It is really difficult to tell if I was speeding or not, as the small digit which shows your speed is so inaccurate, I wonder how many more careful drivers have been ‘taken-in’ by this, when other drivers seem to pass you like bats from hell, do they get fines?

How could someone actually contest the fine, how could you prove that you were NOT driving at what I would class a dangerous speed or in such a manner as to endanger others, would such a person actually admit to driving badly? It would make an excellent discussion.

Ultimately though, I still smile at the fact I got this fine reaching now my ripe ‘old age’ of 62, a pensioner, (with a very wicked sense of humour!!) with better things to do with €50, I said to my husband - move over Vettel here I come!!

ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 78.33% full Same week last year: 54.84% Same week in 2003: 48.23% 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 1.35 American Dollars 0.84 British Pounds 1.40 Canadian Dollars 7.45 Danish Kroner 10.51 H Kong Dollars 8.13 Norwegian Kroner 1.68 Singapore Dollars

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Hilary Grainger, Arroyo de la Miel.

Mountain Marks

any member of the staff of the town hall or the Junta.

The concept of ‘random inspections under duress’ of private houses appears to be now an acceptable procedure for town hall and Junta staff to employ.

Dig a moat, build a draw bridge but they will still get in and you, Mr or Mrs Private Citizen have absolutely no defence against them.

WE really enjoyed your Ronda supplement last issue, but you really should have written more about the wonderful deli Bonnisim in Gaucin, run

by Karen O’Connor Karen (right) calls it ‘Marks and Spencers up the mountain’ and it is absolutely true, this is a top class place to stock up on all sorts of goodies, including wine.

Now offering more generous portions cooked by scottish born chef Anne Grey, there are flavorsome curries and tajines and lasagnas to die for. Salads, as well as superb cakes and tarts.

There are speciality organic goods, locally made jams and marmalades. Yes lots.

Not so cheap

Arthur Webster, Coin

No bull

Jane Jewson, Manilva

Thank you I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Olive Press for having the decency to investigate instead of promulgating the lies that have been created by either the town hall Mijas or the Junta staff regarding a totally nonexistent care home in Valtocado.

Not only was the claim false, it was reported to all the news media in the area resulting in reporters laying siege to the property and all of the other English language newspapers failing in their duty of care for the population they report for.

It also resulted in several forced and illegal invasions of the property.

Because of these undeniably evil actions, a legally constituted community of like-minded people has been torn asunder. Three members have been driven from the home built with their own hands into an uncertain future in the land of their birth, Holland.

The town hall, rather than investigate to discover the truth, took the illegal steps to invade the private property, make illegal enquiries about the financial affairs of an absent member and to create an architects’ report showing that, like so many similar properties in Valtocado, there were infringements of the building laws introduced in 1999.

What happened (and continues to happen) to these people should be an object lesson to us all. We are no longer safe in our own homes if we give offence to

I want to say that Bull Fighting is Sociopathic and Criminal, NOT CULTURAL. Any act that mutilates, tortures and kills a sentient being is not ‘cultural’ or ‘artistic,’ but rather highly sociopathic and criminal. Bull fighting must be illegal and permanently stopped. I believe humans who protect bull-fighting need to seek psychiatric treatment immediately.

Deborah Van Damme, California

NICE PROPERTY: The ‘Bomb Factory’ I was delighted with the article on Jimena de la Frontera in your last edition and we have had great response from the words on our new estate agency.

Just one thing, in your article about the ‘Bomb Factory’ property there was an error.

The fantastic property should have read ‘offers invited in the region of €500,000 and NOT €400,000 .

Karen Banham, Jimena de la Frontera

No shoot-out I am writing in response to a story published by you that is incorrect.

It was alleged that students at Alfajarin school donned military disguise and executed Gibraltarians. In contrast to the information that was given to the world, the videographer denied the play was set in Alfajarin School.

The video was in fact filmed at a party in a village in Huesca.

I hope that is clear.

CROSSMOT 17

Laura Smith, Huesca

Stop mistakes With the unfortunate case of the baby dying on an Alicante baggage conveyor belt, fresh in my mind. I was shocked that only a couple of weeks ago at Malaga airport I told a toddler off who seemed unsupervised and who was jumping on and off the conveyor as we waited for it to start.

Mother appeared and said.

“Oh come on you mustn’t play, some people don’t like kids having fun” Seconds later the belt started moving.

I was flabbergasted!

John Jones, Kent

Across 1 Limpió (7) * 5 Nivel (5) * 8 Oscilado (5) * 9 Aduana (7) * 10 Specialised (13) * 11 Consternación (6) * 12 Palos (6) * 15 Terribly (13) * 18 Legend (7) * 19 Seven (5) * 20 They (5) * 21 Operated (7).

Down 1 Swan (5) * 2 Crews (7) * 3 Talks (13) * 4 Showers (6) * 5 Systems (3, 8, 2) * 6 Violates (5) * 7 Lecciones (7) * 11 Detail (7) * 13 Sentence (7) * 14 Ally (6) * 16 Real (5) * 17 January (5).

L = 199

Letters should be emailed to letters@theolivepress.es. The writer’s name and address should be provided.

Published opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

la cultura

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Prado pins recovery hopes on artist’s homecoming

what’s on

M

ijas, October 17. The foundation for abandoned and

mistreated animals will be holding a ladies lunch at the El Jinete restaurant La Cala de Mijas at 12pm. Tickets cost €24 per person contact 620 354 885.

Viva Velazquez A SENSATIONAL collection of paintings by Diego Velazquez has gone on display at the Prado Museum in Madrid.

Entitled ‘Velazquez and the Family of Philip IV’, the exhibition brings together some of the Sevilla-born artist’s most important works for the first time.

Visitors will be able to see his portraits of the Infant Margarita, Pope Innocent X and Philip IV, along with work

C N N E E F

oin, October 18-19. The Andalucia Performing Arts Society will perform ‘We’ll Meet Again’ at Los Arcos. Tickets cost €10 or €7 for members. erja, October 19. Ensemble Elegance Orchestra plays at the Centro Cultural Villa at 9pm. Tickets cost €10. erja, October 26. The CAS Scruffs-dog show will take place at

the market site in Nerja. Registration cost €5 and begins at 12pm.

stepona, October 27. The International Club is hosting an open day from 12.15 -14.30 for all interested in becoming members.

stepona, until October 30. Work by artist Monica de Carlo is on display at the El Campanario Golf and Country House.

uengirola, until November 28. Alejandro Hermann presents his Autumn Sonata exhibition at THB Class Hotel.

By Claire Wilson from the final decade of his life.

The exhibition, which opened this month, has been made possible by loans from a string of institutions including the Museum of History of Art in Vienna.

The Prado, considered one of the world’s most treasured cultural institutions, was expanded in 2007 to accom-

CAPTIVATING: Infant Margarita (above) and distinguishe Philip IV (left) modate the surge in visitor numbers.

Since the onset of the recession however, it has struggled to fill its new rooms as it faced slashed government subsidies, and has been forced to

Bitter sweet bull fighting IT has been a bitter sweet month for Spain’s national pastime.

While the government officially endorsed the art as a ‘cultural necessity’ for Spain –many condemned the move, including UK travel company Thomas Cook.

The PP pushed through the law to make the Spanish pastime a ‘Bien de Interes Cultural’ by using its majority in parliament.

It went through despite animal welfare groups asking for amendments to the act – including banning fights on TV, which was ignored.

Taking matters into their own hands, protest group PETA pressurized Thomas Cook to remove all information regarding bull fighting and Pamplona’s running of the bulls.

Thomas Cook confirmed that it would remove all references to bullfighting events.

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seek alternative sources of funding to remain open.

The cuts have been so severe the museum predicted a 25% drop in visitor numbers for 2013 as a result of the reduced number of exhibitions.

It is now hoping the vast appeal of the Velazquez exhibition will help turn its fortunes around.

IN COURT: Famous Las Meninas and (right) Pope Innocent X

Ideal for armchair travellers A NEW website allows armchair travellers to visit the sites of Madrid.

Website 101 Masterpieces has explored the most popular attractions in the city and gives visitors the chance to pop online and see them

in all their glory.

Developed by the government, the website aims to encourage visitors to later arrive in person by giving them a taste of what is there. www.101obrasmaestras.com

la cultura

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Just one big cover up In the final excerpt of Matthew Pritchard’s nail-biting crime thriller, Scarecrow, hero Danny Sanchez has been dealing with the death of his friends, and a serial killer on the loose.

His friend Jeanine has been found murdered in her home - is it the work of the serial killer? The press are trying to brush it under the carpet and only Danny and photographer Paco Pinto are trying to uncover the truth

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MURDER SCENE: Huercal Overa

anny stood before the news kiosk, shaking his head as he examined the morning’s Spanish papers. Jeanine’s murder hadn’t been reported on the front page anywhere.

He could understand that it might have not made it to the nationals – El Pais, El Mundo, ABC – but the locals? There were maybe ten murders a year in the whole province and most of those were either the result of domestic violence or stupid squabbles that had got out of hand; Jeanine’s murder was one of the biggest news events of recent years and yet it was buried among the middle

BETTER PUBLICITY: Murder covered up so not to ruin power boat race

pages, the traditional dumping ground for low-priority news.

Danny bought all three local newspapers and sat in a bar to read them. All three followed the same line: that Jeanine’s death was the result of a burglary gone wrong.

What really bothered Danny, though, was how the hell they had got hold of the story at all. Danny and Paco had been the only journalists there. Plus Paco hadn’t even found out about the incident until midnight. That was long after the Spanish papers got put to bed.

Spanish television and radio were following the same slant on the story. A television above the bar caught Danny’s attention; Tomás Gutierrez’s beaming face, smiling in the way that politicians do when they are about to candy-coat a turd.

The situation is completely under control and there is no reason for panic. All I can tell you is that police are investigating a British woman’s death in Huercal Overa and that they have already identified a man they wish to question in relation with the matter.’

‘

Word came down on high from the Junta to bury the story There it was again, that neutral language: a British woman’s death; the matter. Danny knew a Spanish journalist who’d written one of the articles. He phoned him.

Julio? What the hell’s going on?’ ‘The murder story? I know about it.’

So you admit it was a murder? You’d never be able to tell from the headline: British woman dies in burglary. Dies?

Not killed? Or slaughtered?

Dies? You make it sound like she keeled over from a heart attack.’

Hey, I didn’t write the headline, OK? And for your information I do think it was a murder and I wrote it as such. But word came down from on high late last night to change the headline.’

How did you find out?’

About 22:45 last night, the editor got a phone call: big

‘ ‘ ‘ ‘‘

story breaking; everyone stop ‘Christ, you mean to say this what they’re doing.’ secrecy is all because of the powerboat race?’

Who phoned?’

I don’t know. But the press No, I’m talking about Almerelease we got was from the ria’s bid to host the powerboat Junta.’ race. I’m talking about a fourWhy from the Junta? It day international event with should have been from the po- the world’s jet set guaranteed lice.’ to descend en masse. I’m Julio’s voice talking a lifedropped to a line for thouWith whisper. ‘Don’t sands of local be naïve, Danunemployment b u s i n e s s e s , ny. hotels, free There are in- at 30% and rising publicity for terests at work province’s serial killers are the behind the exports and, bad for business scenes here. most imporNo one wants tantly, a little the province to look bad. At ray of sunshine for the socialleast not this week.’ ists in a period of unrelieved Interests? Three dead bod- gloom.’ ies turn up in a week and you So they don’t want murders talk about interests?’ investigated because of bad Things are bad here and publicity?’ they’re going to get worse.

No. The murders are being Unemployment is currently at investigated – but as separa30% and rising. No one knows teentities.’ where this thing is going to botWhy?’ tom out.

Because murders happen Seriously. People are blaming all the time. Like rainy days and governments. The regional gov- traffic accidents, murders are ernment here has existed since an unfortunate, unavoidable 1978 and it’s always been run fact of life. But a serial killer? by the socialist party. They’ve That’s a different story altowon every election. Andalucia gether. is their great bastion. Within Serial killers get reported ineighteen months there will be ternationally. And serial killers, elections and for the first time by their very nature, imply init looks like the socialists could competence on the part of the lose. Not only that, the conser- authorities, simply because to vatives could get an absolute have become one they have majority. The socialists are to have killed more than once. working flat out to avoid that. The question is always “Why That’s why certain prestige weren’t they caught earlier?”’ events have become so vitally Can politicians put that important.’ much pressure on the police?’

The penny finally dropped.

For your information, yes they can. But do you seriously think this is just politicians?

This is everyone. It’s national government, regional government, councils, chamber of commerce, business magnates. No one wants to hear about a possible serial killer running rampant in the province the week before the judging committee is due to assess Almeria’s bid.’

Danny hung up. The Junta had fed the burglary story to the Spanish press.

Well, Danny Sanchez knew different. He knew Jeanine’s death was part of something else and he was going to prove it. But to do that, he needed to know exactly what had happened inside Fouldes’s house.

There was only one person who BOOK: Available now via could tell him…

Amazon

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Boy snaps top prize

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WINNER: The picture by Gus Ralph, aged 11

N 11-year-old boy has claimed the top prize in a photography contest in Andalucia.

Gus Ralph saw off competition from a large number of adults to claim the €200 first prize in Vejer Focus 2013.

Judges agreed the photo, of two youngsters walking past the front of an empty shop, showed a maturity that many professional photographers would aspire to.

More than 350 anonymous entries were received, all taken using mobile phone cameras over a weekend in September.

A display of all the photos went on show at the town’s popular La Casa del Califa hotel.

The second prize of €100 was awarded to Joao Paulo da Costa, while Sebastian Peña won the third prize of dinner and a night in a suite at the hotel.

VARIETY: Four impressive pictures also entered in the Vejer Focus 2013

Drawing in a big crowd

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MURAL painted by an expat has proved a hit at a pub on the Costa del Sol. The Frog and Toad in Alhaurin el Grande had been in need of a lick of paint since being taken over by Steve Daley four months ago.

The former builder set about re-plastering the walls before drafting in expat Michelle Duffy to add the finishing touches.

Artist Duffy, from Coin, spent a week painting the new design onto the 4 x 3m back wall.

And locals have been so impressed with the final result that some have even commis-

sioned Duffy for their own work.

Daley and his wife Tracy moved to Spain 12 years ago and be-

came landlords after the construction industry was hit hard by the financial crisis.

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Miro drops in A FABULOUS display of exhibition posters by Catalan artist Joan Miro are on display on the Costa del Sol. The 32 original colour lithographs were created to promote the artist’s paintings and have been influential on modern graphic design.

The exhibition can be seen at the Casa de la Juventud in Plaza de las Flores, Estepona until November 15.

The works can be viewed from 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 2pm on Saturday.

Entrance is free.

Cultural mix THE Poligono gallery in Marbella is hosting an exploration of Chinese ink painting.

Five Chinese artists will be exhibiting their abstract works until November 15.

Qin Feng, Liang Quan, Zheng Chongbin, Wei Ligang and Lan Zhenghui have mixed western and traditional Chinese techniques.

The experience of trav-

elling and living outside of China, engaging with other cultural artistic practices creates a freedom of artistic expression resulting in wide-ranging explorations of collage, calligraphy, mixed media, and installation.

Throughout their careers, each artist cultivates a unique artistic language that reflects their practice and a modern sense of individualism.

Sonnens

Harlequins Carnival

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A decade of success

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A significant number of quality businesses are going stronger than ever, despite the recession. But what has kept them afloat over the last decade?

The Olive Press asks how they did it and what’s on the horizon?

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RECESSION is a traumatic time for everyone, from big brands to small businesses, all trying to scrape through until it is all over.

Now is certainly not the time to get complacent and sit back believing that it can’t happen to you. Even the strongest, most respected brands can take a tumble in tough times.

The idea for this supplement came as I leafed through a 2003 issue of Essentials magazine while on a beach this summer.

Very much an age of prosperity, restaurants, hotels and bars were popping up everywhere and foreigners were queuing to snap up thousands of bargain properties being build up and down the coast.

It was a time for optimism, but also ‘at times’ for greed

Phew! We made it

A

DECADE on and a considerable number of tried and trusted businesses are still thriving in Southern Spain.

Despite the nation experienc-

ing the worst recession in its history, these companies have continued to offer the market quality products and unrivalled service.

Whether they are hotels and

WHY ALWAYS ISN’T FOREVER? Olive Press publisher Jon Clarke has the utmost respect for the survivors of the recession, and a chuckle at one that didn’t make it and foolishness as businesses jostled for position.

But it was comforting to note that among hundreds of businesses that had fallen by the wayside – including one restaurant tragically called ‘Siempre’, meaning ‘always’ - dozens had survived, including a handful, now clients of the Olive Press which was launched three years later!

These companies are the true

heroes of the recession, having crafted a place for themselves through skills – as well as clever marketing to a consumer base with tighter purse strings. We hope that they continue for another 10 years.

From an Olive Press perspective all we have known are tough years since we launched nearly eight years ago.

Just after we got over the first three years of getting the busi-

restaurants, schools, lawyers or traders, they have all had to work twice as hard to stay afloat in recent years as the recession began to bite.

And now - despite a raft of LOOKING BACK: Idea came from coastal magazine in 2003

new regulations and continual red tape making Spain one of the hardest countries in the world in which to be an entrepreneur - they are again beginning to grow again.

For the first time in years, consumers and businesses are starting to feel confident about the future.

Analysts at Credit Suisse predict that it won’t be long until there is true economic recovery in Spain.

Long-running

ness up and running in a competitive sector, we then entered the true doldrums of recession.

From getting three phone calls a day from potential advertisers we slipped to about the same number per week.

While our Eastern edition folded – with my two business partners being forced to go back to the UK – I realised the only way to survive was by Turn to Page 24

Indeed, the country is expected to grow by up to 1% next year, while a recent survey of business owners shows they are at their most optimistic since 2010.

In a special supplement to herald – hopefully – the start of the end of the recession, the Olive Press looks at some of these long-running businesses and finds out how their bosses have plotted survival.

As most admit, it has mostly been a combination of hard work and battening down the hatches.

But ultimately it also takes energy to survive!

Adverts a key to success

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USINESSES that advertise during a recession are more likely to survive it than competitors who don’t.

Analysts Ogilvy and Mather compared a number of brands that had increased sales during the last recession and discovered that those companies that spent more in advertising generally made more profit.

Another study by research analysts McGraw-Hill, in the 80s recession, discovered that firms that maintained or increased their advertising expenditures had significantly higher sales growth, both during the recession and for the following three years.

Ten years later, research group Coopers & Lybrand also discovered that 72% of businesses that continued to advertise in a recession not only remained open, but grew when the economy stabilised.

The company added that advertising through downturns, provides a stable image to customers –who look for normality in a chaotic environment.

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Surviving the recession GATES: Key advice

Tips for small businesses

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ecession is a word that can instil fear into any business, however, if a firm can survive a recession they will emerge even stronger than before, as they will have developed some valuable survival skills which they can continue to implement, even when times are good.

Some of the key factors to survival include: A positive attitude When your company is facing hard times it is important not to panic. A negative attitude will quickly spread to the employees, and even customers. Be realistic and acknowledge the issues your business is facing, but be positive on how you are going to tackle those challenges.

Marketing Bill Gates once said: “If I only had $2 to spend, I’d spend $1 on Marketing and PR”. Marketing and advertising is critical, it is important to make people aware that your business is still there.

Consider new methods of marketing, including networking.

Review costs A review of all costs is an important part of the strategic plan. Re-negotiating contracts could be beneficial.

Customer Satisfaction It is far more cost effective to retain existing customers than it is to obtain new ones. How a product or service is delivered will determine the repeat business you can achieve, especially if the service you provide exceeds that of your competitors.

Staff Good staff are a vital asset to any business.

Treating your staff well will ensure they treat your customer’s well. If you are facing difficult times it is helpful to keep your staff informed and to

M

ARBELLA Pools and Spas has specialised in providing swimming pool maintenance and technical support for over 20 years on the Costa del Sol. Run by colleagues Colin O’Neill and Bill Pearman the company has built up a reputation as a business that provides its customers with a ‘complete professional pool service’ that is specifically geared to satisfying their personalised needs.

“Our extensive knowledge of

SKILLED STAFF: A vital asset get them on board with the measures you are taking to ensure the company’s survival. Talking to employees can sometimes uncover cost cutting measures that you may not have identified yourself.

It is also important to hold onto the talent within your organisation. However, during a recession many larger companies will make skilled staff redundant and this may be an opportunity for smaller businesses to gain staff members with skills and abilities that they would not normally be able to attract.

New opportunities Small companies should always be on the lookout for new opportunities. New opportunities can present themselves in many different ways. For smaller businesses one significant opportunity arises when a large competitor exits the market.

The small business owner should be ready to fill this gap and capitalise on it. The recession may also offer companies the chance to re-invent themselves. You can repackage your current offerings, offer upgrades to your service or product or expand your customer base.

Pooling two decades of knowledge the pool and spa industry, together with our commitment in giving the best service has earned us the reputation of one of the leading pool companies here,” explains Colin.

As well as being members of the British Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers, they

It is NEVER forever From page 23

rolling our sleeves up and going out on the road.

We started by creating special All About supplements on local towns, as well as specific sections for niche advertisers.

Then, we went out and talked to local businesses, asking how they were doing and what we could do to help them.

Thankfully we quickly struck a chord with many, including La Sala in Marbella and Molino del Santo in Ronda who remain, along with others, as clients to this present day.

What we have always done is NOT rest on our laurels and continued – despite temptation – to maintain the quality of our brand.

We have a set policy not to cover our front page with

adverts and maintain a strict advertising / editorial ratio that is in the interests of BOTH advertisers and readers.

The Olive Press also continues to invest in journalists... ultimately the lifeblood along with a professional sales team, of any good newspaper.

So here we are today, not only having grown 30% each year for the last five, but now in a position to enjoy further success and continue to best service southern Spain’s vital and thriving local businesses.

As I look around on my frequent travels up and down the coast I am incredibly heartened to see so many strong and well known businesses still out there.

Most are there for one key reason only. Hard graft. And ultimately I salute them.

have a multi-lingual team of professionals, a modern fleet of fully equipped service vehicles and the latest in swimming pool and spa technology.

The company, based out of San Pedro, also can provide pool heaters, automatic and manual pool covers, filtration equipment, salt chlorinators, spas, pool cleaning accessories, chemicals and much more.

“Years of retail experience has helped us source the best quality products available on the market,” continues Colin. “We have a highly trained pool maintenance team that is dedicated to caring for both private and community pools.

Support

“They take all the headaches out of keeping your pool clean and chemically balanced all year long. Our maintenance team operates between Cabopino and Estepona.

“We also have a technical department that provides our customers with the technical support they require in order to find solutions for a wide range of problems. Our expert pool reform team can help create a new fresh look for you pool, optimising your enjoyment of your home’s most important focal point.”

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Flip flopping our way through crisis W HEN we arrived on the coast in 2003 it soon became apparent that our clients knew a lot more about the real estate market than we did.

“Do you think we can flip this property before completion?” one client asked me.

“I’m told we can double our investment in just three months,” said another.

Aside from visions of flipping dolphins and pancakes, I had no idea what they were talking about and it was the start of a very steep learning curve into what was clearly a market gone mad.

It was a complete culture shock when estate agent Adam Neale from Terra Meridiana started working in real estate back in 2003 What we did learn subsequently was that our business timing was impeccable, the flips became flops.

Yes, we had arrived at the frothy end of the longest property bubble in European

history and what followed was going to be the deepest depression since WWII. However, we are still here despite what seemed a sustained assault from the European and particularly UK

press (the same papers who talked up the market a year or so earlier). The knocking down of the Priors home, the volcanic ash cloud grounding flights and genuine fear the Euro would collapse.

There were times when my wife Theodora and I wondered if we would all be going back to trading potatoes.

Frankly I am amazed we sold any properties at all given the amount of fear in the

SAFELY ESTABLISHED AND STILL OFFERING QUALITY

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T appropriately got its name from its owners Matthew and Emma Murray Harper when it opened on the Costa del Sol 22 years ago.

Based in Estepona the Murray Harper Transport company was a very different prospect back then, ‘full of excitement and promise’.

“Of course there was not as many people about but the area was economically strong,” explains Emma.

“And everyone seemed to have money to spend. We started with one van, then two, then a truck with me and Matthew doing all the driving.

“Although I was away six months of

the year, often taking my daughters with me, they were happy times.”

The couple bought a warehouse in the industrial estate of Estepona, with help from their parents, before buying another two as business grew. More trucks and staff followed.

“We are still there, but of course in this new era of hard times we have had to cut back and tailor the business to the economy.

“Thankfully we bought at the right time so we are safely established and still offering the quality service and personal touch that we have become known for,” she continues.

SURV TheodIVORS: Ad am an ora d market. Every client I spoke to seemed to have digested The Economist and rallied me with depressing statistics and end-of-world stories.

It was a tough period, but the weather and the lifestyle helped and was worth fighting for. We continued to work long, hard hours, often starting at 6am and coming to bed at 10pm.

We offered the best service possible to our clients and we marketed shrewdly and wherever we could find a good deal.

And then suddenly about two and a half years ago after a particularly dismal year in sales the beginning of confidence returned slowly to the market and we completed the best year we had ever traded.

Since the trend has continued and now seems to be gathering pace.

Whether people became bored with waiting for the end of the world or were simply waiting for prices to bottom out I don’t know.

But the market is definitely moving faster than it has in a very long time.

Expectations

What has evolved thankfully is a more mature market, one populated by people who actually want to live or spend a large amount of time in Spain.

Investors are also returning to the market but this time with realistic expectations: They are buying to hold and not to flip.

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Are we really coming out?

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HE government is predicting brighter days for Spanish businesses over the next few years, but is it telling the truth?

While analysts at Credit Suisse agree that the end of the recession is nigh they also found some inaccuracies that could be making the statistics ‘less bleak’.

The report ‘Spain – The sun also rises’ agrees that Spain has a strong financial future, but insists there are still a number of problems.

In particular the recent report, highlights export levels of the four key European countries since 2008.

It found that of the four, Spain’s exports have shown a healthier bounce since the depths of the crisis than the other three (see graph right), including Germany, widely considered Europe’s export powerhouse.

Thanks to the rise of exports and manufacturing money is once again returning to Spain. The main problem is that the average person is not feeling the benefit and with one in four adults unemployed here it often feels worse and most people haven’t got much disposable income.

Because of this, imports are down. And the average Spaniard – and expats alike – are not likely to start spending until the economy is more stable.

The good news, Credit Suisse reports, is that the trickle down affect will not take long.

Still Gaston golfing!

W

HEN the recession started to hit Bob Gaston’s golf business four years ago he worked hard to come up with new ways to stay afloat.

With client numbers – particularly from the UK and Ireland – beginning to dwindle, he remembered the old adage: ‘It’s hard to collect loyal customers but very easy to lose them!’

The business that had been based in Duquesa for 14 years had a loyal client base and re-focussed on it. It also refused to cut advertising.

“Of course the Spanish Government didn’t help by raising the IVA on golf courses from 8% to 21% overnight. So much for Tourism!” he says.

GREEN SHOOTS

KEEPING CUSTOM: Team at GAston Golf

“However, we ploughed on regardless and looked very hard at ways to cut operating costs but, most importantly, resisted cuts to our advertising costs.

“Moreover, we invested in a brand new website and expanded our operating areas.

“Now thankfully we seem to have weathered the storm and the green shoots of improved business are starting to sprout.”

All part of the family

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T has been nearly four decades since Jack Honess started moving goods around Europe. And his company Union Jack has seen many changes.

During the boom, the company employed over 20 people and had articulated lorries heading back and forth from Spain almost daily some weeks.

But during the recession business slowed down dramatically with on average three articulated lorries heading for the UK a month and one coming back to Spain. The workforce had to be reduced by more than half.

“However in the past few months the situation has started to change,” he explains. “We are getting more and more enquiries.

“Most importantly we seem to be seeing more people moving from the UK, mostly due to the low prices of property and next year I think there will be quite a lot more people settling here.”

OLD TIMES: Union Jack crew in 80s and (inset) Jack today The key to the company’s success has been personal service. “It has always been at the forefront and we make a point of getting to know our customers. It is how we have weathered the recession. Personal service at a stressful time is very important.”

The company has also recently introduced a pet transportation service.

“It is a big decision to trust someone you don’t know with your pet. We all love animals and make them part of our family until they arrive.”

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Not s our l

A doctor for your TV needs

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FTER running a Sky and ‘On digital’ aerial business in Cheshire in the 90s, Mark Wood decided to open a new business on the Costa del Sol. “We have now been here for 14 years, installing and servicing satellite/aerial systems for all nationalities,” he explains.

“The key to our success is the complete professionalism brought on by my own UK exspecial forces background,” he continues.

Now in the new era of IPTV Internet via television (as opposed to satellite TV) we will always strive to give you the quality of installation and service that we applied to tens of thousands of our clients over the years.”

ENGAGING: Wardell

By investing big and putt has just had its best five

TRANSFORMATION: Pool area before and after

NOW

H

T

With work ton), to ex “We hom Chap one s Howe and bran “Our servi in a was “Som begin for in expa The

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sitting on laurels

ting service culture first, Sunset Beach Club hotel years out of 27 on the coast, says manager Mark Wardell

W AND THEN: Upgraded rooms

HEN Irish Insurance firm FBD purchased the building (they also own La Cala golf ) as a shell in 1984, who would have guessed that nearly 30 years on it would have become one of the coast’s largest and most popular hotels.

With over 1.2million guests passing through its doors since opening for business in June 1987, it is fair to say the Sunset Beach Club in Benalmadena has been a success.

And, while other rival hotels have seen a downturn over the last five years, Sunset Beach has actually seen an increase in trade, with tourists arriving from all over the world.

Indeed the last five years have been the best in the hotel’s history, according to General Manager Mark Wardell.

“We never sit on our laurels and are constantly looking for new ways to please our guests,” he explains. “For example, in 2010 we were one of the first hotels in Spain to employ a full time Social Media Manager.”

The company has also invested heavily in its product, with a €16m upgrade in 2002 and a further €6m spent between 2005 and 2007 on other improvements, including a seafront promenade.

“Empathy with our guests is also very important,” continues Wardell, a softly spoken Dubliner. “It is vital to engage guests and listen to their needs and wishes. Every one of the team here is constantly mindful of this.

“Best of all the importance put on service means that we have plenty of repeat custom and many of today’s guests actually came here as toddlers!”

How we became No1

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HEY had only been in Spain a couple of months, when Bryan McCavitt and Claire Cockrill bought a small flagging TV satellite business that needed some urgent investment. h their skills in TV installation and marketing (Claire ked for leading London PR company Hill & Knowl, they had soon stablised the business and started xpand along the coast. initially worked out of a bashed up old van and our me in Calahonda, before opening a small shop in Las pas,” recalls Claire. “There was enough space for small desk and a couple of dishes.” ever over the next two years TVONE expanded fast by 2008 it counted on five full time staff and a nd new high profile office in Puerto Banus. r consistent attention to detail and great customer ice led to our clients wanting much more from us – good way – and so our TV /Audio Video showroom born. me saw the move as risky just as the recession was nning to bite, but we were getting so many requests nstallations, TV and audio and we knew we had to and.” move has paid off and today the company counts

on up to 3000 clients and a solid reputation for the greater Marbella area and further.

“Our doors are now open to anyone worried about the imminent changes to UK TV. We have solutions catered to the individual’s needs and we welcome anyone to drop in to see what’s available,” adds Claire.

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The Jewel of Mijas took a fair bit of shining

S

ITTING beside Mijas Golf, the Tamisa Hotel always had a ready supply of happy travellers visiting since opening in 2000.

But when the recession hit in 2008, it had a disastrous ef-

Our brief: Accessibility and quality at a fair price

HELM: Tamisa owner John Peach with Vinnie Jones (left) and Lorraine Kelly fect on Spain, and the Costa “Our only means of survival Peach. del Sol in particular. was to batten down the hatch- And just when he hoped things Within two years the hotel’s es, drastically reduce costs couldn’t get much worse, drop was ruined and The Jewel neighbours, the 5-star Hotel and look to attract new busi- they did, when the neighbour- of Mijas had a building site Byblos, and the 4-star SAS ness from different markets ing golf course closed for a view throughout 2012 – another disastrous year,” he adds.

Radisson, had both closed and countries, at cheaper 12-month renovation.

But Peach is a fighter and to their doors. rates,” explains owner John “Our fabulous Tamisa back- survive he has forced the hotel to reinvent itself.

He brought in new ventures such as its Spa & Medical facility with Lynda and Margaret, the Passion Studio Fitness Centre, A BYLAW that prevented Michael Dyde, going in. “We even managed to save 63 Tamisa Golf Properties, and the 77, from keeping his holiday park in the fruit trees,” he continues.

Costa del Sol Golf News, now all UK open for more than eight months a A costly process, he put in a local sewage based in the hotel. works, even though the local village did year led him to Spain.

My journey to set up Lazy Days

HAPPY CLIENTS: At local feria and (inset) Dyde

“I thought, after all, why not have the other four months in the sun in Spain?”

And that led to a tour around Spain looking for the appropriate spot for a holiday park.

“Of course there was no such thing as ‘planning’ in Spain back then, but we eventually found the right location in inland Malaga, in Mollina and found an orchard just on the border of the village.”

He had soon bought more land and within weeks had 27 of 30 plots sold with substantial deposits. Construction started immediately with roads, drainage, water, television, and electric pipes

not have one. In 2000 it opened. “It was all worthwhile and clients appreciated the adult-orientated atmosphere, settling in to enjoy their retirement. We encouraged community events but did not pressure participation. Success came in the local feria when the clients entered the float competition,” he continues.

“Now, of course times are changing as we are now, the emphasis is in providing accommodation for an older clientèle not quite as agile, and including the management!

“Oh and we are happy to see the grandchildren (because they go home).”

Mel C

They also pushed the hotel as a wedding venue with considerable success and worked to get golf societies in. Through his contacts he also got celebrities, including Mel C, Vinnie Jones and Lorraine Kelly to come and stay.

“Luckily the course has reopened again to an extremely high standard and Tamisa is again open for business and surviving,” adds Peach.

O

VER the last decade Marbella Solicitors has expanded along the coast, despite the crisis.

From the first office in Marbella, the legal group has opened no less than five new offices of their own. They are now able to offer their clients, local access in; Nerja; Malaga; Mijas-Costa: Marbella; Manilva; and even Madrid.

The group offers free internet and phone consultations, and the first meeting with an English-speaking lawyer for advice and a quote is always free of charge with no obligation.

“So there is nothing to lose by contacting your nearest office for an appointment for any legal problems that you may have,” explains senior partner Jose M Lopez Avalos.

“We aim to encourage people to use the services of a lawyer, whatever their problem, and to prove that this doesn’t have to be expensive. Our simple secrets for such a rapid growth, even in times of crisis, are to be accessible; to charge competitive fees; and to always maintain a quality personal service for all of our clients”.

To arrange an appointment call 952 901 225, or e-mail mail@ marbellasolicitors.com or visit www.marbellasolicitors.com

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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A decade of success

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Navigating OLD TIMES, NEW TIMES; at Mumtaz

A change of appetite in ongoing recession

W

HEN money is tight the first thing to go for most families are luxuries such as eating out.

According to research by US analysts NPD Group, restaurants and bars are worse hit than any other business when the economy is unstable.

People simply choose to eat takeaway or pop on an apron and get into their own kitchen to cook.

The Consumer Price Index found that between 2010 and 2012, most restaurants that closed across Europe were independently owned.

Chain restaurants were better able to weather the recession.

It seems that young people are also staying away from restaurants, with the majority of 18-35 years-olds eating take away.

NPD data has shown that 35-to-64, and 65-plus demographics, are still enjoying a meal out – but half of them are choosing meal deals or using vouchers.

The average adult in the UK who was either eating out or ordering takeout 226 times a year in 2008 is now only doing so 210 times.

Euromonitor International found that there was a 16% decline in new restaurant openings in Spain since 2008.

It also discovered that since the credit crunch struck, up to 50,000 bars have closed down.

Studies suggest that restaurants that survive the recession offer more than just a good deal, but provide quality meals and a good atmosphere. They also ensure to put aside a reasonable chunk of money on advertising.

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

choppy waters

Owner of the Metro Group Ram Nandkishore, explains how the company has adapted to help most of his key restaurants, including Mumtaz and Jacks, to survive the recession

T

HE economic crisis has given us the opportunity to take a hard look at ourselves and be the best we can be.

Survival is about evolution and moving forward, and rather than look at the crisis as a time to cut back and think negatively, we have endeavoured to use this period to strengthen our business and look at how we can be the best at what we do.

In other words, be positive and improve.

We benefit from some of the strongest and most established restaurant brands in Marbella, whether it’s Old Joys, Jack’s or Mumtaz - several

of our brands are ‘institutions’ having been in business for decades.

With our American style restaurant - Jacks - we have focused on getting the basics right - a fun environment, with good food, great value and a casual relaxed feel - perfect for parties and group bookings.

Understanding the strengths of our individual brands is critical. We have survived through an unshakable focus on our customers. Every single customer that dines in our restaurants is very, very important to us. We strive to give them the best experience we can through good times

INSTITUTION: Jacks is a ‘fun environment’

and bad, and our strategy is to give our customers the experience they want - and this is vital in an economic downturn.

Rather than pricing we focus on value. Our pricing model is not the cheapest nor is it the most expensive, however, it is about adding value.

The experience a customer has from the moment they book the table, to when they leave is about adding value. We do all we can to make our restaurants great value - this is key in an economic downturn.

We cherish and reward customer loyalty - our customers are our guests. We don’t always get it 100% right but when we don’t, we find out why and do what we can to put it right.

In any downturn it is vital to understand yourself, to look at your core business and to ensure you deliver. We never take any of our customers for granted, and once they have chosen to dine or drink with us, then it is our job to make that experience the very best it can be.

In an economic crisis never lose focus on what you are and what you about?

Finally, we believe in intelligent marketing. Research shows that in an economic crisis those businesses that continue to invest in marketing do much better than those that don’t. We believe in understanding our brands, our customers and the best media to engage with our customers.

It’s not easy - but the rewards are that we can navigate through these choppy waters and when the upturn is upon us - we will be in the very best position possible.

TALENT: Christian and Noriko

Up and away for Arroyo

T

HINGS really started to get exciting around the Casares area when Christian RobsonBurrell and his Japanese wife Noriko opened their restaurant Arroyo Honda in 2002.

A true Dining Secret, Christian had honed his culinary skills in London and the Far East and his cooking was always creative, but with good quality local ingredients.

“Changing the menu by the week also means using mostly seasonal produce and the emphasis is always on quality dishes with a twist,” he explains.

“By offering quality but keeping the prices down means we are full for most of the week.”

Expect to try treats such as chestnuts, braised oxtail with Parmesan gnocci with white truffle oil and king prawn tempura with a Wakame salad and Ponzu dressing.

The restaurant also tries to have plenty of game through the winter, including dishes like loin of venison wellington with jamon serrano and mushroom duxelle.

metro group 2

A decade of success

34 34 the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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Brightening up your home!

Joanna Park from Damptech explains how she and partner Fred have survived the recession

W

hen we arrived in Spain, more than 10 years ago, we noticed that buildings were being quickly erected, with no thought for longevity.

Unlike in the UK, damp proofing was not widely considered – and properties were facing a life of FAMILY FIRM: Joanna, Ellie and Fred mildew. We saw a gap in the market.

UK, and all our staff are trained in damp Being Master Builders, we understood proofing, basement conversion and are how damp affects a building. And, com- master builders. ing from the UK, we appreciate the dam- Since 2003, we have proven our methage rain can do. ods time and time again, and hope to We still export our products from the continue for the next 10 years.

Swans: From chalet to celebration TO THE TOP OF THE CLASS: Picture of chalet from the ‘old’ days and today

F

ROM small beginnings in a chalet to two ‘purpose built’ sites, one for primary and one for secondary, Swans school now counts on more than 650 students from over 30 nationalities.

The longest-established school in the Marbella area, set up in 1971, SWANS follows the British International curriculum until the age of 14 and then the IGCSE system from 14 to 16.

In the sixth form (Years 12 and 13)

the school focuses solely on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma course. Although the last few years have seen a difficult economic climate the school continues to grow and looks forward to a long and successful future.

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41 the olive press - October 16 - October 30 201335 35 The Olive Press fortnightly business section taking a look at the Spanish economy and offering tips on how to save AND make money

Business is bright Entrepreneurs in Spain are at their most optimistic for three years OPTIMISM among Spanish business owners is at its highest level for three years,

Blingo !

MARBELLA trumps Ibiza and Mallorca in the luxury brand market.The Costa del Sol resort represents 18% of the high end shopping market around Spain, compared to just 8% in Ibiza

and 5% in Mallorca. Only Barcelona (32%) and Madrid (27%) beat Marbella when it comes to the purchase of expensive brands, according to the Luxury Goods Worldwide Market survey.

THE NEW LAKESIDE THE UK’s largest shopping centre owner is set to acquire one of Spain’s biggest retail spaces in a deal worth a cool €165 million.

Intu Properties – the owners of Essex’s legendary shopping centre Lakeside - has agreed to purchase the Parque Principado in Oviedo, Asturias.

The 75,000 square foot shopping centre, which opened in Asturias in 2001, boasts 156 retail units, a 12 screen cinema and 20 restaurants. In 2012 it attracted 9million visitors.

Intu’s chief executive, David Fischel, said: “The opportunity

SPENDING SPREE: The Asturias centre to acquire Parque Prinicpado, Intu might launch a real estate a top 10 centre in Spain firmly investment trust for its Spanestablishes our presence on the ish holdings, suggesting it is ground in a country where we confident the country offers atsee considerable growth op- tractive investment prospects portunities.” over the longer term.

according to a survey.

Industry leaders expect the economy to gradu-

ally improve in the coming months, after employment figures rose slightly.

The monthly poll, known as the Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI), revealed a boost in staffing levels within the telecommunications sector.

The news comes despite a marginal decline in service activity in September, and a further decrease in output prices due to tougher competition from abroad.

“The Spanish service sector failed to show much sign of recovery during September,” said PMI spokesman Andrew Harker.

“But compaCUTTING BACK: Catalunya nies are at their Caixa most optimistic about the future second-biggest of the four banks for nearly three that have been nationalised by the and a half years, Spanish government to save them suggesting serfrom collapse. vice providers Last month another bailed out are seeing some bank, Bankia, announced it was to light at the end axe 800 external directors as part of the tunnel.” of its own cost reduction efforts.

New jobs gloom for bankers A SPANISH bank is to slash its workforce by a third as it looks to improve its balance sheet and restructure its operations.

Catalunya Caixa has reached an agreement with unions which will see 2,153 of its 7,200 employees made redundant, and the salaries of the remaining staff cut.

The nationalised lender bank said it would also offer voluntary redundancy to its seasonal employees, and reduce the working hours of those on flexible contracts in a bid to further cut its outgoings.

Those being laid off will receive a redundancy package equal to one months pay for each year they have worked.

The decision is expected to be approved by the management committee in the next week.

The move comes as the troubled bank seeks to improve its appeal to buyers, and is part of a deal it made with the EU following a €12 billion bail out last year.

Catalunya Caixa was formed in 2010 from the fusion of three savings banks in the northeastern Catalonia region, and is the

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the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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Santander bet on El Corte Ingles SANTANDER is to buy a majority stake in the personal finance arm of department store El Corte Ingles.

The country’s biggest bank will buy 51% of the consumer finance division of the world’s third-largest department by sales.

The deal will see El Corte Ingles finance department integrated into Santander Consumer Finance, easing

the retailer’s debt burden and consolidating the bank’s position as Spain’s largest consumer lender.

The purchase will be the bank’s first significant investment in Spain since the onset of the financial crisis.

It will also go some way towards easing the €5 billion debt pile run up by El Corte Ingles as a result of a sharp fall in profits over the past

five years.

The family-owned department store, founded in 1935, has faced stiff competition from cheaper rivals such as Mer-

Millionaire milestone THE number of millionaires in Spain has increased 13% over the past 12 months, despite the country being mired in its worst recession in history.

A total of 47,000 Spaniards became millionaires in 2012 and the country is now home to 402,000 high net worth individuals.

This is compared to 355,000 in 2011, according to Swiss bank Credit Suisse.

The research also revealed Spain was one of only ten countries to register a total

wealth increase of over $200 billion in the year to June 2013.

This increase relates to financial and non-financial assets and is being attributed to both a favourable dollar-euro exchange rate and a stock market recovery.

The report said: “It may seem strange that the eurozone acquired so many new millionaires last year, most notably in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Belgium, but this simply compensates in part

for the big drop in millionaire numbers experienced a year ago.”

The US saw the biggest surge in new millionaires (13 million), followed by Japan.

Spain’s increase put it in eighth place.

At the lower end of the scale there were 1,066 billion people with an annual income of between $10,000 and $100,000, while 69% of the world’s population, 3.2 billion, had income of under $10,000 a year.

cadona, Dia and Zara since the downturn, resulting in a profit fall from €716million in 2007 to €210 million last year.

Foreign fever

MORE than half the shares in a Spanish government bond scheme have been snapped up by foreigner investors.

The 31-year scheme was unveiled by Spain’s central bank as a show of confidence in the markets.

The bond scheme is the longest of its kind to be announced since 2009.

Around 28% of the €4billion bonds were snapped up by Britons, while US, French and German investors each accounted for 10%.

The bond was issued with a yield of 5.1%, a far cry from the all-time high 7.6% long-term Spanish debt was yielding in July 2010.

The scheme matures on October 31 2044.

The popularity of the scheme is being hailed as a huge vote of confidence for southern Europe.

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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The Olive Press NOW has 35,000 of Andalucia 33 provinces www.theolivepress.es 32 papers delivered across EIGHT and Gibraltar every fortnight by our hard-working team of distributors

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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

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TOTAL COVER

Covering the costas and ALL 8 provinces of Andalucia Less than 1% returns and a much bigger footprint than our 3 main rivals:

• 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• 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 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 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 GOING EVERYWHERE ON THE COSTA DEL SOL WITH THOUSANDS OF EXTRA PAPERS IN TORREMOLINOS, BENALMADENA, FUENGIROLA AND MARBELLA... CONTACT US AT OUR NEW COSTA DEL SOL OFFICE IN ESTEPONA TO GET EXACT DISTRIBUTION SPOTS AND NUMBERS ON 951127006

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AFTER 30 years of car hire Helle Hollis is going into public parking.

With video surveillance and in a locked area, the indoor airport car park near Malaga airport will be ‘100% safe and secure’.

Moreover, customers who park for more than seven days will get a free car wash before the vehicle is returned.

And to celebrate its opening the new car park has an October special ‘Price Match’ - where it guarantees to match any other indoor parking price on Avenida Garcia Morato.

Managing Director Hans Hugo said: ‘Helle Hollis Parking will stand for safety, quality and service - just as we are known for with our car hire.’

Parking can be reserved via www.hellehollisparking.com where customers will receive a 15% online discount on the parking tariff. Email parking@ hellehollis.com or call 951 01 40 58.

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After 30 years in Malaga, Helle Hollis is now opening an airport car park

Safe and secure

Celebrating a happy move

CELEBRATION: Moneycorp team at party

IT was a bold switch from Puerto Banus to La Cala de Mijas a year ago.

And the successful office move was celebrated at a party by the Moneycorp team last week.

Manager Stephen Tiley explained that the move had seen a ‘big increase’ in business and thanked his staff for relocating with him.

The party came as the foreign exchange provider announced a first half year revenue growth of 31% and news that the firm has added over 250 new staff to its workforce this year.

CEO Mark Horgan told the party that growth had been ‘excellent’ this year and that company reserves were very healthy.

“Our growth has been considerable in 2013 and our read of the market has proven accurate,” he said.

Spanish plant breaks solar record A SPANISH company is behind the world’s biggest solar plant that has just opened in the USA. Abengoa has successfully completed installation of the 280 megawatts commercial solar farm in Solana, Arizona.

America currently generates less than one per cent of its energy from the sun, but with the new farm more than 70,000 households will be supplied with electricity during the day.

The solar field covers an area of approximately 800 hectares and cost approximately €1.5 billion to develop.

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Top Dollar

Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander Richard Alexander explains the options of pension funds

O

NCE upon a time, taking retirement benefits from a pension fund was relatively easy because the only choices were; how much lump sum to withdraw and which type of annuity to buy. However, buying an annuity is today the least favoured option for many people as it is possible to leave the pension fund invested and to simply draw income from it. This has the distinct advantage of leaving the pension fund intact, which is then still available for beneficiaries in due course. Conversely, an annuity will guarantee income but the pension fund has been spent when the annuity is purchased.

There are however differ-

Retiring gracefully ent methods of drawdown available; Capped Drawdown, Flexible Drawdown and Programmed Withdrawals.

Capped Drawdown is the most common type and is available for the largest number of people. Under this arrangement, the pension commencement lump sum is taken and the balance of the fund can then provide income. This can commence immediately or can be deferred. The level of income is calculated either by reference to Government Actuarial Tables (GAD rates)

issued by HMRC or by utilising an alternative actuarial based calculation used in the relevant country where the pension fund is held. This calculation then determines the maximum (or Capped) level of income that can be drawn each year. It is not necessary to draw the maximum but in any event, future reviews, typically after 3 years, will make new calculations to set a new Capped income limit. This will take into account investment performance, current financial climate and the age of the member. The income level can go up or down de-

pending on these factors.

subject to tax.

Flexible Drawdown is similar to capped drawdown but is only available to people who have a demonstrable and sustainable pension income of at least £20,000 per year. This might mean assessing all sources and using some of the pension fund to secure income by annuity purchase but once the £20,000 per year has been secured, the rest of the pension fund can be taken as a lump sum. HMRC will allow up to 25% without tax deduction and the balance will be

Programmed Withdrawals are another option which are possible from QROPS based in Malta. Under this arrangement, when retirement benefits are commenced, a pension commencement lump sum is available – up to 30% and then the remaining fund has to provide income. The income can be drawn directly from the fund and the limit will be in line with GAD rates.

Income can be deferred.

However, 3 years after commencing benefits, the fund is reviewed to determine

what amount would be required to produce an income of £20,000 per annum and then 50% of any surplus fund can be withdrawn as a lump sum. This review process can be repeated every year thereafter. No tax will be deducted in Malta from the lump sum payments.

Clearly with so many options, professional advice is needed and where reference has been made to tax treatment, it is your country of tax residence which will determine what tax you have to pay.

Richard Alexander Financial Planning Limited is an appointed representative of L J Financial Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the UK. Contact him at Richard@ra-fp.com

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YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

Antonio Flores explains residency issues

A

SPEEDING fine was apparently a good enough reason for the UK Border Agency to reject a citizenship application – despite the individual serving four years in the British army.

Spain’s authorities also use their discretion when it comes to giving a foreigner a Spanish passport.

To become a national, individuals have to show that they command the language, have a stable income, no criminal record and are generally good citizens.

These basic principles can stop individuals from entering the country – such as these poor souls: A Moroccan living in Spain, with

Ask Ant

You’re not welcome a son and a daughter is turned down because the authorities did not believe he would fit in.

They cited that ‘he barely comprehends the political structure of the society he lives in, among other things, and has shown minimal understanding of essential aspects of the society he wishes to become part of.’

An Argentinian tried to gain citizenship but was rejected when the court found he had a record

Q: What are the latest requirements for an EU citizen to apply for “residencia”?

A: Non-working applicants will have to prove adequate medical insurance (EHIC card or insurance policy) and a bank account deposit with at least €5058 (plus an additional €3540 per each dependent).

For a working applicant, original and copy of the employment contract as well as proof of being registered with the Social Security or, alternatively, signed consent form authorizing the Police to confirm registration details.

For a self-employed worker, proof of registration with the Tax Office and the Social Security or, alternatively, signed consent form authorizing the Police to confirm registration details.

for illegally connecting a telephone device and making several free phone calls, within Spain and also abroad. Court deemed that such an action was hardly consistent with ‘good moral character’.

Conversely, a Dominican lady went to the Supreme Court to appeal against the Civil Registry’s decision to reject her application on the basis that she was working in a brothel, since it was not demonstrated that she offered sexual services but that even if she were, the profession was neither illegal nor morally reproachable, both in Spain and in the EU. Finally, a rejected illiterate applicant (of unknown origin) successfully appealed on grounds that belonging to a demographical group where the percentage of literacy is minimal, did not necessarily imply that the person could not fully integrate in society as in fact, she could speak Spanish with fluency and express herself clearly and effectively.

STERLING STUFF

T

America’s depression could affect us all

HE storm clouds have gathered over the US economy and as the game of brinkmanship within Congress came to a close, all that was left was acrimonious posturing and some 800,000 federal employees with unpaid leave.

Of greater significance for the world at large was the concern that the US government could run out of cash. Politicians must find some common ground (and some common sense) and agree to allow the government to increase its already whopping $16.7 trillion debt ceiling. If they fail, the US will default on its debt.

Obama who is keen to hold talks with the Republicans, said a US default could: “Disrupt capital markets, undermine international confidence in America, permanently increase the nation’s borrowing costs, add to its deficits and debt, and pose the “significant

risk of a very deep recession”.

The consequences of this are almost unfathomable as throughout every example of global economic crisis, investors, speculators and central banks alike have always turned to the dollar as the ultimate safe haven during times of uncertainty. Without such a bastion of security, turmoil in financial markets would ensue.

However it seems the currency markets have thus far chosen to ignore the potential doom.

Since early July, the US dollar has gradually inched its way lower across the board. The fact is that between June and late September, the odds-on bet was that the US Federal Reserve would start reducing (or tapering) the amount of new money it was pumping into the US economy to stimulate growth.

President Obama has now nominated Janet Yellen as the next head of the US central

bank. The first woman to head the Federal Reserve, she will replace Ben Bernanke who has served for eight years. She will have the uphill struggle of trying to wean the global economy off cheap money, as just the hint the US would start tapering its asset purchase program threw markets into turmoil.

Politicians are playing a game of chicken here with the stakes building and the pressure increasing as time goes on. This is high stakes poker and it does not just concern the US, but the global economy as well. It is due to the stakes being so high that the market is relatively calm, as the politicians have no choice but to reach a compromise. Usually in times of uncertainty, the dollar gets stronger, given its status as a safe haven. This time it’s different.

Keith Spitalnick is head of European Sales at HiFX. To contact HiFX and find out how the team can help you with your international transactions, call in at Centro Plaza, call 951 203 986 or email olivepress@hifx.co.uk

Top Dollar www.theolivepress.es

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advertorial

Spanish Inheritance Tax (IHT) some common myths corrected

S

INCE 1994 Wincham has been successfully helping people of various nationalities, who own Spanish property, with the burden of Spanish Inheritance Tax (IHT). Over the years we have experienced many misconceptions surrounding the ownership of Spanish property in a UK Limited company as a solution to legally removing Inheritance Tax and some of these are explained below.

Spanish Property ownership within a UK Limited Company: There is often confusion between a UK Limited Company and an offshore Company. A UK company, in line with EU treaties cannot be charged the 3% annual tax that offshore companies have to pay in Spain. Following the 2008 UK Finance Act and Budget the Directors of a UK Limited Company are David Rogers Tel. 0034 622 345 558

no longer subject to “Benefit in Kind” Tax on the ownership of foreign property. A further advantage of the UK company structure is the ability to offset certain expenses such as council tax bills car hire and flight costs for the Directors when travelling to and from Spain.

Selling the Spanish Property: The property can still be sold from the UK company should the purchaser prefer not to retain the ownership in the UK company. The advantage of purchasing the property in a UK Company is that there are no Spanish Inheritance Tax implications for the Beneficiaries and no 7-10% property purchase tax payable of the purchase of the company. In addition the seller does not pay the 3% Withholding Tax following

the UK Company sale.

Costs & Time: The UK Corporate structure is a simple solution costing less than most probate and legal fees which also saves the additional Spanish reporting and taxation burdens for the Beneficiaries. Our unique service is available to all Nationalities including both Residents and Non Residents of Spain and can be completed within 2 to 4 weeks if required.

Purchasing / Transferring the property into your children’s names: Using either of these methods would mean that you would need to pay Spanish Inheritance tax to keep your own property should your children predecease you.

There are also gift tax implications to consider both in Spain and the UK when moving the ownership of the property in this transaction.

Mark Bailey Tel. 0077 02 192 797

The Wincham Solution.

Our solution to the IHT problem in Spain is for the owner/s to invest the property into a UK Private Limited company which they would own as Shareholder/s remaining in complete control of their asset.

To receive your ‘complimentary’ Spanish Inheritance Tax illustration please visit www.winchamiht.com or scan the QR code below. Alternatively contact one of our advisers on +44 (0)1260 299 700 (UK) or

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ardin path

Totally diverse Andalucia is Europe’s most varied region for flora and fauna

A

NDALUCIA is home to the largest botanical diversity in Europe.

The region has some of the most unique species of flora and fauna in the world,

By Alex Iszatt according to a recent study by the Network of Botanical Gardens.

Almost a quarter of Andalu-

cia’s species of flora – some 929 plants – are exclusive to the area.

The region also has one of the highest number of nature parks and protected zones

Urgent mission to protect five endangered plants

F

IVE species of plant will be extinct in the next decade, according to research.

The five Granada plants are in urgent need of protection if they are to survive, claim scientists from Spain’s Royal Botanic Gardens.

The ‘Endangered Species Project Zero’ aims to protect the five plants: Avellara

fistulosa (chicory hollow), Castrilanthemum debeauxii (Castril Daisy), Gyrocaryum oppositifolium (nomevés), Naufraga Balearica (Castaway) and rivas-martinezii Pseudomisopates (false dragoncillo).

A team of scientists from Granada University are now analyzing the plants genetic diversity and reproductive biology evolutionary origin.

Lead researcher Pablo Vargas explained: “This project is a pioneer in plant conservation in Europe.”

so it is no surprise that there are dozens of facilities that protect natural areas, and are home to these endangered species.

The network, which was founded in 1954, was created to ensure the survival of plants around the world.

The local group, set up in Cordoba, aims to raise public awareness about the importance of the biodiversity of the region compared to the rest of Europe.

Much of the diversity came about as half of Andalucia was once separated and joined to Africa, while other parts came from the Eurasian plate.

It is divided by a string of mountain ranges principally the Cordillera Betica, Cordillera Subbetica and Penibetica. (see map top) Within this division key mountain ranges are the Sierra de las Nieves, Grazalema and the Sierra Nevada, all with their own unique species of plants.

HE KNOWS HIS ONIONS!

by Peter Langdale

A spooky end to October

A

S the end of October approaches here at Garden La Palma we are readying ourselves for Halloween and ‘El dia de los muertos’.

Sue Rodgers asks Do you feel like a Dinosaur?

For most readers Halloween and its traditions are well known and so, as usual, we cientists have found evi- ticularly if caused by gout. Either eat will have Haldence that dinosaurs suf- plenty of celery or make a tea from loween pumpthe seeds. Place a spoonful of seed fered from arthritis! kins.

It’s quite reassuring to know in a cup, pour boiling water over, Coming from that we humans aren’t the only spe- and leave to infuse for 10 minutes the north of cies to suffer from its often excruci- before drinking three or four times England I refer a day. ating pain. to the night of If you are brave enough and can find Another great herbal remedy to October 31 as some here in Andalucia, beating the ease the inflammation of joints is ‘mischief night’ joints with stinging nettles offers liquorice – no I don’t mean a packet and this usualeffective relief from arthritic pain – of Bassets Liquorice Allsorts! ly involved goapparently the Romans were great The key component in liquorice is ing around the glycyrrhizin, (no easier to say than it fans. village causing Self-flagellation isn’t compulsory, is to spell) that relieves inflammamayhem. though, you can take nettles in teas, tion. Liquorice can be taken as a tea Unfortunately, or tincture, but should be avoided if soups and even pill form. a fine line was A gentler solution is to peel and slice you suffer from high blood pressure. sometimes a 100cm piece of ginger root into a Last but not least, is to keep moving, crossed and pan of water, bring to the boil and particularly taking part in some form the mischief alsimmer until the water is dark yel- of non or low impact exercise such most bordered low. Strain and add to a warm bath as swimming. Moving the joints reon the point of and soak in it. To increase the ef- duces both stiffness and pain. vandalism!!! fect, also add some Epsom salts to Arthritis is a complex condition and Either mischief medical advice should always be the water. or near vandalGinger boosts circulation and eases sought first. ism; if you got joint inflammation. Celery is also nicked by the good for easing aching joints, par- sue@selfsufficiency4u.com local bobby you were sure to

DINOSAUR PROBLEM

S

get a good kick up the backside or worse.

Our Halloween pumpkin was usually a hollowed out swede pinched from a sheepfold.

On arriving in Spain nearly 30 years ago I was intrigued to witness the scene of the cemeteries being packed out on the afternoon of October 31and morning of November 1. In short it is the time of the year when the catholic world honours its dead. More often than not, this usually involves cleaning, sometimes whitewashing and generally renovating tombs, graves and niches. An important part of all this is the placement of fresh flowers, plants and wreaths. Here at Garden La Palma el dia de los muertos is one of the few times in the year that we have a good selection of fresh flowers available. Obviously chrysanthemums are a must as now is their natural flowering period.

As the weather remains very warm it is a great time in the garden for everything.

On our commercial farms we are in full swing; sowing, growing and harvesting.

Should any reader wish to visit our commercial growing operation just drop me a line on peterlhortopalma@gmail. com.

That’s all for now folks.

Top Salud

51 www.theolivepress.es

CLEAN BILL Vote of confidence for Andalucian healthcare

PATIENTS in Andalucia have praised the level of

care offered in the region.

A study of 21,000 people

Spain’s health hope ANDALUCIA is one of the only places in Spain to conduct clinical research into cell therapy.

There are currently 22 trials taking place to discover treatments for conditions including heart disease, multiple sclerosis, strokes, corneal injury and vascular disease.

A number of these trials are in what’s known as Phase III, the final stage before being made available.

These include: Lower limb critical ischemia in diabetic patients (diabetic foot), a

disease that affects 100,000 people in Andalucia. Dilated cardiomyopathy (heart swelling), affecting 3,000.

Chronic ischemic heart disease (problems that occur after heart attacks), which affects one in five heart attack patients.

The Minister for Equality, Health and Social Policies, Maria Jose Sanchez Rubio, said the success of the trials was due in part to ‘the talent, skills, professionalism and dedication of our health professionals’.

Cancer calendar BREAST cancer fundraising is set for a boost following the launch of a 2014 calendar on the Costa del Sol. Costing €6, all proceeds will go to Malaga Association for Women Operated for Breast Cancer (Asamma).

More than 2,000 copies of the calendar have been printed courtesy of Malaga’s provincial

found widespread satisfaction with the service provided by doctors, nurses and social workers.

The poll, conducted by the Institute for Advanced Social Studies of Andalusia, found that 95.4% of respondents would recommend their doctor.

Health centres were recommended by 93.9%, while 93.3% were satisfied with the overall service they received.

What’s more, 94.1% were satisfied with the nurses, 94.2% with family physicians, 90.7% with social workers and 89.5% with paediatricians.

Omega headache OMEGA-3 found in fish oil could help protect against alcohol-related dementia, according to a new study.

Researchers in the US assessed rat brain cells that had been exposed to alcohol-levels equivalent to a human being four times over the drinkdrive limit. The cells were then compared with those that had been exposed to the same amount of alcohol but also fish oil. The brain cells exposed to the combination of fish oil and alcohol were found to have suffered up to 95% less neuro-inflammation and neuronal death than those exposed to just alcohol.

government.

Asamma provides a number of services to those with breast cancer, including counseling for the women and their families.

For more information visit: www.tuescaparatesolidario.com.

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Disability victory A NINE-year-old girl left with severe disabilities after contracting an infection at birth has been awarded compensation.

Andalucia Health Service was ordered to pay €600,000 in damages after the regional supreme court upheld an earlier ruling by a court in Sevilla.

Medical records from the time of birth show there was no doubt that there was a ‘causal relationship between the action of the health service and the damage caused’.

The court heard how the child’s disabilities could have been prevented if Virgen del Rocio Hospital in Sevilla had followed protocol by testing for streptococcus.

A swift course of antibiotics ahead of birth could have prevented the child suffering from epilepsy, developmental disabilities, weakness to her right side and impaired vision.

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Top Salud

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Getting your SEVEN-a-day

Extra veggies can reduce heart disease risk, study shows.

FORGET five-a-day - eating seven daily portions of fruit and vegetables can increase life expectancy and reduce the risk of heart disease, according to Spanish research.

Many people struggle to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, but new research suggests that even those who do manage it should be doing more.

Raw vegetables are particularly good at protecting against early death and are especially beneficial for people who drink alcohol, smoke or are obese.

Researchers believe this is because of the antioxidant con-

tent of fruit and vegetables, which reduces the oxidative stress caused by drinking alcohol, smoking, and being overweight.

The Spanish study revealed that people who eat seven-aday live, on average, for more than a year longer than those who do not.

The research found that eating a lot of fruit and vegetables is particularly protective against heart disease.

Scientists at the Andalucian School of Public Health’s Granada Cancer Registry analysed 25,682 deaths among 451,151 people over a 13 year period.

They found that people who ate more than 569 grams of fruit and vegetables – seven portions – a day were 10% less likely to die young and lived, on average, 1.12 years longer than those who ate less than 249 grams a day.

Researchers concluded that almost 3% of deaths could be prevented if everyone ate six or seven portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

Previous research has also shown that if everyone ate their recommended daily allowance of fruit and vegetables, the number of people with chronic diseases would fall and the risk of early death would fall by 10 to 25%.

“There is now sufficient evidence of the beneficial effect of fruit and vegetable con-

sumption in the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases,” said researcher Maria Jose Sanchez Perez.

“For this reason, one of the most effective preventative

measures is promoting their consumption in the population.”

The study also established that people who eat a lot of fruit and vegetables are 15%

less likely to develop heart disease.

More than 4% of heart disease-related deaths could also be prevented if everyone ate enough fruit and vegetables.

Final flourish AFTER six weeks doing yoga on the beach at Laguna Village I have finally packed away my towel, says Alex Iszatt

I

do feel more confident in both mind and body.

The classes weren’t just about breathing and unflattering poses, they were about bringing a new balance to my life – including making new friends.

My actual balance is still poor.

I tried to use my newly found skills on the netball court and ended up looking like a felled tree rather than an image of the graceful one-legged pose.

It seems that I can only balance in certain positions. On a beach, looking out to the sunset.

I haven’t lost any weight, but that is probably my own fault, as I keep reiterating I can’t control my intake of yummy treats and gallons of vino.

And no, I am not anywhere near as toned as trainer Lisa Marie, but I think if I had followed her nutritional advice, I might well have been.

Ah, c’est la vie.

When the summer rolls around again I will get back on the beach trying to fulfil those picture perfect poses.

Until then, it’s a few hardcore winter sports for me.

Lisa Marie will still be holding her classes on Monday and Wednesday.

For more information about times get in touch with her via www.lisamariemethod.com.

Specialist Spain HEALTH officials in Guernsey are addressing a shortage of specialists by targeting Spanish nurses.

Orthopaedic and critical care nurses are needed to work in the Princess Elizabeth Hospital, with interviews being held in Madrid next month.

The recruitment drive comes after the closure of a surgical ward in the hospital last December due to a shortage of qualified nurses.

Applicants must hold an NMC registration, have six months experience in orthopaedic, surgical or critical care nursing, and speak fluent English.

Those who are successful will receive a €3,500 bonus after two years, and a further

retention payment of €1,200 thereafter.

They will also have the opportunity to study for a degree in Guernsey.

It is hoped the recruitment drive will help boost the morale of health workers in the hospital, which has been subject to big spending cuts over the past 12 months.

As a result, many nurses have been forced to work on unfamiliar wards.

OP Columnists

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013 47 Belinda Beckett, aka Mistress 47 of Sizzle, visits Zahara’s Retinto Festival

Pub crawl with (cow) bells on!

“

PLEASE don’t take her photo,” I pleaded, as we passed a fetching russetbrown cow, grazing in a

field along the coast road to Zahara. “I can’t look her in the eye in case we might be eating her daughter later.”

COLOURFUL TREAT: A different sort of burger

I’m one of those hypocrites who doesn’t like bullfighting but loves beef and Dave and I were on our way to the IV Ruta del Retinto to eat it 30 different ways!

If it can be turned into a fiesta, the Spanish know how and the trades folk of Zahara really milk it with their culinary homage to a humble brown cow: el retinto, a hardy little bovine indigenous to the Sierra de Retín in Cádiz Province that thrives on hay and acorns during summer droughts, giving the soft, lean meat its distinctive nutty flavour.

The four-day fiesta, a ‘carnival’ in its truest sense (carne = meat) is beefing up local tourism by stretching the season out to the end of September. Some 20,000 visitors come

to taste the culinary creations dreamed up by 30 different restaurants in artfully-presented tapitas: retinto ravioli, retinto mille feulle, retinto fried, fricasséed, flambéed and flaunted atop a scoop of savoury sorbet! If you eat 12 and get a form stamped at each restaurant you could win

20,000 visitors come to taste the culinary creations a colour TV or a tablet. It’s the same recipe for success as the Zahara Tuna Festival which netted €800,000 last May. Zaharaboomdeay!

It’s a great day out if you like socialising while you scoff!

“Have you tried the one that looks like a Walls Feast lollipop?” I asked a couple from To-

TRADITION: Keeping the meat eating days alive ledo as we munched on a miniature beef burger, served in a scarlet bun with a ‘false egg’ of mustard and mayonnaise on

Brown’s Anatomy

Giles Brown forgets to chant ‘White Rabbit’ and still regrets it two weeks later

I

’VE never been one for superstitions, but the events of the morning of October 1 gave me pause to consider if I should take

them more seriously.

Apparently on that morning – and on every first day of the month - one is supposed to chant ‘White Rabbits’ to

ward off any bad luck.

I, of course, forgot, so was duly woken at 6.30am by the cats (Genghis, Vader and 50 Shades) demanding

Sweet Dreams

I

’ve been having trouble sleeping recently.

Something to do with the whooshing sound of deadlines as they whistle past me, not just my throbbing toe.

So I decided to pop down to my local chemist to get something to help me sleep.

Great places, your average chemist. One in Marbella in the 80s was maintained by a chemist so good at diagnosis that she was nicknamed The Witch Doctor.

But I digress. I walked up to the chap behind the counter and boldly asked for some ‘pasteles para dormir’.

He looked at me blankly and burst out laughing, “You mean ‘pastillas’ – tablets, not ‘pasteles’ – cakes?” Before adding: “I do however know a guy who can make you a cake to help you sleep!”

their breakfast.

When I got to the cupboard, I realised that I was out of cat food and faced with three increasingly frantic and famished felines I had to placate them with a rather nice bit of salmon I was planning to have that evening.

Grumbling to myself, I shuffled into the shower, only for the boiler to go ‘phutt’ just as I had soaped myself up and leaving me with no option except for a cold shower.

Muttering darkly I headed back into the bedroom at pace, only to catch my little toe on the end of the double bed, snapping it back.

My house

Forget, ‘In space, no one can hear you scream’. In the campo, around my house on the lake, my shriek of pain must have startled the wildlife in a ten-mile radius.

Two weeks later and I’m still sporting an interesting flip flop and trainer combination, as my toe is still throbbing. What’s worse, the cats have now developed a taste for smoked salmon...

Suited and Booted I was Master of Ceremonies at the Marbella International Film Festival last weekend. The coast has recently attracted some genuine Hollywood glamour with the visits of Brad and Angelina, Eva Longoria and supposedly George Clooney.

Unfortunately none of these Alisters were at the ceremony (noone from Towie even turned up), but at least it gave me the opportunity to get my Black Tie out.

The last time I was asked to help out at an A-list function was when an international jewellery firm launched a range in Puerto Banus. There was a huge show with lights, live music and great lighting, plus the beautiful people of Marbella and Madrid.

I was very excited when the event company got in touch and asked me to help out. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I turned up on the night and they asked me to organise the parking.

the side. “We can recommend the Sorpresa Esferica”, interjected a group of tourists from Frankfurt. Happily, this ‘spherical surprise’ was not what it sounds like (the meat comes only from yearling cows, not bulls). It turned out to be a little Scotch Egg. For €3 including a beer, wine or soft drink, you can’t go wrong.

As a sideshow to this pub crawl with (cow) bells on there’s beach horseracing and polo, played out on a miniature arena where you can get close enough to the riders to see the whites of their ponies eyes as they flash past the flimsy fence, waiving their mallets like machetes.

From the colour-coded map that guides you around to the helpful waiters, resplendent in polo shirts to match, the Ruta de Retinto is one slick operation, masterminded by a chap who’s a one-man tourist board

Cute retinto calves with long lashes and soft ruset fur stumbling on stilt legs... in Zahara: Gaspar Castro, President of trade association, ACOZA. And wow has he put this pretty seaside pueblo on the map. The Tuna Festival will be six next May and, for his next trick, he’s talking pork to the neighbouring province of Huelva in a bid to launch a Ruta de Cerdo Iberico.

Alas, later the same day my worst fears were realised when I locked eyes with the living versions of what I’d so recently eaten…There was a corral of them – cute retinto calves with long lashes and soft russet fur, stumbling about on stilt legs, suckling from their mums – and I felt a very sharp pang that wasn’t caused by indigestion. But then, I’m just a soppy old animal-loving guiri!

OP Columnists

48 48 the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

I

N THE past two years I’ve lost three good friends to various ailments. Two died of sudden heart attacks and the third from a long battle with cancer. One of the friends was only 58 years old. I wasn’t prepared to say goodbye. And, when I attended my 50th high school reunion a few months back I learned that 29 of my former classmates had passed away.

Somehow, although we all know death is a real part of life, we are still shocked when it happens. Every day seniors face the loss of their beloved friends and spouses. They enter into a state of shock which eventually turns to other emotions such as fear, numbness, anger and sometimes guilt.

All of these emotions are a normal part of the grief cycle,

www.theolivepress.es

Saying goodbye Grieving is part of the natural cycle of loss explains Juliet Hambro but they are difficult nonetheless. How can we help those going through this time of

change? How can we prepare ourselves for future losses?

Here are some tips from those who have experienced the painful loss of friends and partners.

•Let others help: There are hundreds of tasks to be done when someone dies. There is paperwork, decision-making and taking care of the basics of everyday life while you may be numb from grief. Let friends and relatives take care of as many of these tasks as possible.

There will be time ahead to be strong and independent.

•Keep busy: After the busy hubbub of a funeral or memorial and the initial taking care of business, there will come a quiet time when the rest of the world returns to normal. Your life is different now. Choose to stay Granny Fact

Marriage is like a pack of cards.

In the beginning all you need is two hearts and a diamond.

By the end you wish you had a club and a spade.

busy, take care of the chores of life and begin to select your new activities.

•Give: When you’re ready, begin to volunteer or otherwise help others. Nothing is as satisfying as knowing you can still be productive. Local schools, hospitals, social services and church outreaches can always use willing hands. Sharing your time is a great gift to the community.

•Seek grief counseling or a support group: It is very healing to share your grief with others and see that there are many others going through the same loss and pain. You’ll learn coping strategies and enjoy the release of talking about your feelings and experiences.

www.askgranny.com is a unique website and resource for grandparents and senior citizens worldwide created by Granny Juliet and provides useful information on a number of topics

•Take care of yourself: Be sure to eat well, sleep enough and get exercise. Refrain from covering up your pain with alcohol. Be proactive in getting adequate nutrition, seeing your doctor when necessary and otherwise protecting your well-being. Be aware of the signs of depression which may isolate you from others and contribute to your pain.

•Actively seek a social life: Join a new club or class. Go to the local senior centre, or find a new church group. Get out of your home and be with people—social isolation is one of the biggest contributors to depression after a death in the family.

•Stay joyful and thankful: There is much to enjoy in life. Take a positive attitude and when the difficult times come, you’ll have resources

Granny Fact

The number of people over 50 years who access the web is growing every day.

It is estimated that 19% of the web users are over 50.

This maybe as high as 40% in United States. to fight them.

Nothing can take away the pain of losing a loved one.

While time does lessen the hurt, you’ll always mourn your loss. But life can be full and enjoyable and you have gifts to share with others.

Stay positive and productive, avoid isolating yourself and find ways to interact with others to laugh, celebrate and get the most out of each and every day.

The Olive Press’ www.theolivepress.es

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OP

New nurseries

SEVEN new nursery schools are to be built across Andalucia.

The scheme, funded by the Junta, will provide places for more than 500 children.

Mijas and Guadiaro are among the towns which will benefit from the new centres, with the others in Granada, Huelva and Sevilla.

Bottom of the class

SPANIARDS are among the worst in Europe at maths, according to a study.

People aged from 16 to 65 were tested on basic skills which also included reading.

Of 23 EU countries to be assessed, Spain was the poorest performer.

The country did not fair much better with reading, scoring 21 points below average.

The poll was carried out by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

monthly youth and education section

treme

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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Data dilemma Judge rules teacher was right to check phone of pupil accused of showing explicit video to girl

A JUDGE has ruled in favour of a teacher accused of breaking data protection laws by checking a 12-year-old’s mo-

By Claire Wilson bile phone.

The headmaster of the school

in Madrid intervened after a female pupil complained that the boy had shown her sexually explicit videos.

Art class BSM head Sian Kirkham has a lot going on...

F

ORGET the Louvre - if it is exceptional, original art that you want then look no further than The British School of Marbella.

Swapping pencils for paintbrushes, the children embraced the techniques of the Impressionists during Art Week in style. Using paintings

by Monet, Pissarro and Signac as inspiration, the children created amazing art to rival the masters.

The children’s work was sold at our annual exhibition during a silent auction raising money for this year’s chosen charity, Banka Sol Food Bank - there are going to be some very colourful mantelpieces around Marbella very soon.

The new addition to the Primary Sports Programme

‘teed off’ to a great start when the primary children headed off to the golf course for a few holes. The children had a fantastic time learning how to putt, swing and treat fellow golfers with respect. Watch your back, Tiger Woods!

In other news, the afterschool clubs have added Lego Robotix to the list. I always imagined that there would be robots in our not too distant future, but maybe not this soon! Children from year one to year five took absolute delight building remote control Lego robots with not even one threat of extermination. With the football coaching back on too, we really are not ‘leafing’ anything out this autumn term.

The father of the boy challenged the action, which occurred in November 2011, arguing that data protection laws had been violated.

But the judge at the National Court of Madrid ruled that it was more important to protect the rights of the girl in a case such as this.

“I recognise that the teacher accessed data of a personal nature, and because of the boy’s age, he should have first asked for permission from the parents,” said the judge.

“However in this case, the phone was accessed as part of a disciplinary procedure, which was undertaken following a complaint from a girl who felt violated by the audio visual archive which was repeatedly shown to her by the boy.

“To that end, I will act in the protection of the rights of the girl, and of other minors in the centre.”

Cruising for learning STUDENTS at a US university have explored Spain by ship.

The ‘Semester at Sea’ initiative is designed to give students a more hands-on learning experience.

The MV Explorer floating campus, operated by the University of Virginia, included a visit to Cadiz.

From there those enrolled on the global business ethics course headed to Jerez to learn about the wine industry while marine biologists visited Tarifa to learn more about whale observation in the Strait of Gibraltar.

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Feria Fever FERIA FUN: San Pedro and (left) El Rincon

F

ERIA fever has well and truly taken hold on the Costa del Sol. This week it’s the turn of San Pedro to get in on the act, with a vast array of entertainment on offer.

Whether live music, good food and drink or a combination of

El Rincon de la Sala is an important watering hole for visitors to the San Pedro feria this week both are your thing, there is something for everyone.

One familiar face that will be on hand, hosting its very own caseta, is El Rincon de la Sala.

The restaurant is an increasingly popular fixture in the town, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and provid-

Wine centre to boost tourism A NEW wine centre has been inaugurated in Manilva The facility aims to boost tourism for the town geared around its grape industry.

The museum has been built alongside a new square, Plaza de la Vendimia, which highlights the region’s history in winemaking and grapes.

While there are few wine producers left, the town is known for its grape and FINE: New wine centre raison production

ing fantastic entertainment.

Located in the heart of San Pedro, El Rincon de La Sala has quickly gained a reputation for the same great food and style of La Sala in Puerto Banus, but with the added twist of Spanish tradition and flavour.

Open from 9am everyday until

Andalucia’s Top Chef A CHEF from Andalucia has been chosen as one of the judges on the Spanish equivalent of Masterchef. Ángel León, who owns the Michelin-starred restaurant Aponiente in El Puerto de Santa Maria, will feature on the panel of Antena 3 series Top Chef.

The cook, best known for his seafood dishes, will be joined

by Alberto Chicote and Susi Díaz (below).

the early hours, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a snack menu and light bites. The extensive menu offers an array of dishes that include Chateaubriand; the El Rincon burger; and curried tempura chicken salad.

There is also a fantastic value kids menu for just €5,50.

This is the first time that La Sala will have a caseta at the feria. It will feature DJs and dancers as well as plenty of great food, while Sunday afternoon is dedicated to families, with children’s entertainers on hand.

San Pedro feria runs from October 15-20.

the olive press - October 16 - October 30 2013

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Keeping food on the table and fish in the sea

A sustainable fish farm in Donana is being used by Spain’s top chefs, discovers Alex Iszatt SUSTAINABLE living is a buzzword for many chefs, and an integral part of how to keep our society fed – as well as respecting the environment from which food came.

So it is encouraging to discover that Andalucia is home to one of Europe’s first ‘sustainable’ fish farms.

A genuine pioneer Veta la Palma, in the Donana National Park, rears fish in a semi-wild state, with the minimum impact on the environment.

And its success speaks for itself with Spain’s leading chefs Martín Be- rasategui, Ferran Adria, Dani García, Pedro Subijana, and Fernando Cordoba all using its q u a l i t y, high end p ro d ucts.

Best of all, its fishes are much healthier than those from the normal intensive fish farm methods.

Their animals grow more slowly than under intensive methods, taking 30 months to reach what usually takes just 18

FRESH: From the marshes of Donana

months.

The fishes also have more space to swim in, making for firmer and tastier flesh.

The company extracts a maximum of 1,500 tonnes of fish each year – a fraction of what

might be possible under a more profit-driven regime.

However, as the business is state owned, it has meant that the company can look more at other factors.

In the 20-odd years since the project kicked in, biodiversity on the finca has soared.

Water returned to the Guadalquivir river, that passes through the area, is much cleaner than when it was first pumped into the channels, thanks to the oxygenating capacities of the 250-plus bird

PIRATES AHOY: Seashepherd on duty

‘Radical’ group takes on illegal fishing

A RADICAL environmental group is taking on illegal Spanish fishing practices off the coast of Africa. Supported by a number of celebrities, including ballet dancer Sylvie Guillem, Sea Shepherd takes to the seas to end the slaughter of wildlife.

Founded in 1977 by a Greenpeace member Paul Watson who thought the global group was not aggressive enough, the group patrols the oceans in their trawler.

As well as aiming to stop illegal whaling, the group patrols the seas off Africa, where Spanish fishing trawlers regularly illegally fish.

Recently the group spotted a Spanish fishing vessel trying to poach fish from the overexploited seas near Senegal.

And in a battle to stop the boat, based in Barbate, near Cadiz, they ran it ashore, removed its fuel, destroyed its nets and any workable engine parts, and left the boat to rust.

The group, made up of volunteers, also successfully took the Spanish fisherman to court where they were fined €5000.

African fish production is failing to keep up with rising populations and the government in Senegal is funding research trying to improve its aquaculture.

species found on the estate.

It is certainly not to be sniffed at in terms of size. The farm spreads out over some 11,000 hectares of classic wetlands, some of Spain’s most valuable and highly protected land.

During the Franco years it was owned by an Argentinian company that raised beef cattle here.

However, in 1982 the rice company Hisparroz leased the land and planted rice, only to find that it was prohibited by environmental legislation.

Eventually fishermen came to the flooded fields of this marshland and in 1990 the ‘aquaculture’ farm was nationalised and brought under the ownership of the Donana National Park foundation – to be used as a fish farm.

So successful has Veta la Palma become over the last decade, that today it is selling its fish, including sea bass, sea bream, mullet, shrimp, sole and eel, in Italy, France, Portugal, USA and the UK. Currently, about a fifth of total production goes abroad, but this figure is set to rise considerably over the coming years.

Incredibly, a sea bass fished on the estate can be at an American fishmongers in as little as 24 hours.

With this sort of delivery, it is bound to gain more custom and prove that sustainability is not a dirty word when it comes to food.

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the FREE

Photo credit: @JoseantonioJun

A SPANISH doctor has been ordered to pay €43,682 in compensation to the family of the late Wolf Man actor Paul Naschy.

A Madrid court found the medic guilty of not carrying out ‘essential check-ups’, after he failed to diagnose Spaniard Naschy with cancer.

The cult horror actor died in 2009 after suffering three years of excruciating pain.

He had originally visited the urologist in 2006 after complaining about prostate troubles.

MEDIA SAVVY: Rodriguez

Transparent tweets

A TOWN in Andalucia is hoping to increase government transparency through greater use of social media.

Authorities including the town hall and police have been ordered to start a Twitter account by the mayor of Jun in Granada.

City council agenda items will be gathered using the site and a live feed will be available during public meetings.

Residents are being encouraged to contact the town hall via social media, with Twitter handles being displayed on everything from police uniforms to dustbin lorries.

Mayor Antonio Rodríguez is also encouraging people to contact him directly, promising to answer questions about issues affecting the town.

Rodriguez hopes the move will make the local authorities more accountable and accessible to residents.

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Mayor accused of being ‘out of touch’ after Olive Press story slams ban on most genres of music at Fuengirola fair

October 16

October 30, 2013

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Tapa time

Out of tune THE WRONG NOTE: Mayor Ona at the Fuengirola Feria

A ROW has broken out over a music ban at Fuengirola Feria.

It comes after the Olive Press website revealed stallholders at the popular fair had been issued with an extraordinary order outlawing an exhaustive list of genres of music.

Aside from funk, rap, hip hop, electronica, metal and country, music tents (or ‘casetas’) were not even al-

EXCLUSIVE By Claire Wilson

lowed to play ‘latin rhythms’.

The decree also demanded that any lyrics must be in Spanish.

The town’s mayor, Esperanza Ona has now been forced to defend the decision, insisting the ban was in accordance with a by-law passed

in 2008, which aimed to keep with Andalucian traditions.

But she was accused of being ‘out of touch with modern Spain’ for enforcing the ban, with critics claiming it is a form of censorship.

“The law she refers to does not actually contain any prohibition on music,” said a spokesperson for the town’s PSOE party.

Must ban siestas!

Hilarious holiday complaints in Spain revealed by travel company TRAVEL agency Thomas Cook has released a list of the most eyebrow-raising complaints received by holidaymakers in Spain.

Among the biggest inconveniences suffered by moaning Brits were shops closing during siesta time and Spanishspeaking taxi drivers.

One punter even complained that the local convenience store ‘does not sell proper biscuits like custard creams or ginger nuts’.

Another complained that there were no towels or swimsuits provided during an ex-

cursion to a water park, while another said he was bitten by a mosquito, when the brochure ‘didn’t mention mosquitoes’.

Other complaints came in about the ‘bumpy roads’ which stopped you reading during the bus ride to the resort, while one said simply: “There are too many Spanish people here. No one told us there would be so many foreigners.”

And finally: “It’s lazy of the local shopkeepers to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during ‘siesta’ time — this should be banned.”

Bollywood glamour BOLLYWOOD glamour has come to the Costa del Sol for the filming of Heart Attack.

The love story, starring Hero Nitin and heroine Adah Sharma, is being shot in Fuengirola, directed by Puri Jagannadh. The cast and crew are spending 40 days filming in the region ahead of the movie’s release in January.

“The only limitation on types of music come in the public notice approved each year by the mayor.”

“The by-law only aims to provide a traditional image during the fair when it comes to music.

“It does not mention genres or languages that should be banned at the event.”

MORE than 30 establishments will be taking part in the first Ruta de Tapa in Coin held over three days from October 18 to 20.

More delays Flights in and out of Malaga could be delayed today (Wednesday) due to strike action planned by baggage handlers in the UK.

McFashion

A fashion show and lunch will take place at the MC Cafe, Marbella this Friday.

The show will exhibit the autumn collection from leading brand Gunnel’s.

FINAL WORDS

A REAL HORROR

Covering Andalucia in 2013 with over 200,000 papers (130,000 digital) and around 220,000 visits to the website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!