Olive Press Newspaper - Issue 151

OUR theALL olive pressREADERS - December 23- January 09, 2013 www.theolivepress.esHAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO

the

The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

olive press

FREE

Vol. 6 Issue 151

www.theolivepress.es

Frances Leate

formed part of the so-called Mediterranean Corridor which is to run from Algeciras to Barcelona, via Antequera and Granada.

Under the €711 million scheme, 700m-long freight trains would have been rattling through the valley 24 hours a day, potentially causing the closure of dozens of hotels and ‘turismo rurales’.

Campaigners feared the line would devastate the natural

Freight line scrapping is perfect Christmas present for homeowners and hoteliers in famous tourist valley

FIZZ: A toast as editor becomes first guest at the El Lodge hotel. See page 28

seepage page13 37 see

I promise to help Mijas mayor backs our fire campaign

MEET: OP reporter Frances with mayor and Pat Laing BEAUTY: Ronda’s scenic Llano de la Cruz valley ‘saved’ from railway scheme

XMAS EXCLUSIVE: Olive Press christens Marbella Club’s exciting new Sierra Nevada hotel

Don’t let the Don’t thein bankslet cash banks cash in www.hifx.co.uk www.hifx.co.uk see page 13

December 23 - January 09, 2013

DERAILED RESIDENTS and hoteliers in one of Andalucia’s most popular tourist valleys have been visited by the Three Kings two weeks early.

In a perfect early Christmas present, a freight line scheme that would have ripped through the heart of Llano de la Cruz valley, in Ronda, has been derailed.

The good news comes after the Olive Press joined forces with local mayors, hotel bosses and residents to campaign against the scheme.

The new line would have

1

beauty of the valley, which brings in more than five million euros a year to the local economy.

It would have also led to the loss of hundreds of jobs.

Celebrations are now under way after the government decided to ditch the controversial plans amid concerns it would have a negative environmental impact on the area.

Ronda’s mayor Mari Paz Fernandez said she was satisfied and described the news as ‘very positive’ for the valley.

Tina Piek, boss of Fuente de la Higuera hotel, where celebrities such as Adrian Brody and UK prime minister David Cameron have

stayed, added: “We must salute our lawyers for all their help”.

Paul Whitelock, a resident of Ronda whose home would have been just metres from the new track, was also delighted with the news.

Wonderful

“The line would have been right on my land and very near to my house so of course I was very concerned about it.

“It is wonderful news they have decided to scrap the idea and I hope it has been scrapped for good.

“Ronda is a beautiful part of Spain and it would have been ruined by these plans.”

RURAL TRAIN LINE FACES AXE - See P4

THE mayor of Mijas has slammed the political process in Spain and vowed to help people made homeless after the Malaga fires.

His promise came during a meeting with the Olive Press and members of the Phoenix Campaign group.

Mayor Angel Nozal agreed to back our Rising from the Ashes campaign, which is trying to get quick decisions for the scores of people left homeless after the August blaze.

Many have been unable to repair or start rebuilding their properties because the Junta must first grant them a license.

In an administrative fudge many did not have the correct permits when they were first built, often well over a decade ago. The process could take months, or even Turn to Page 7

5

2

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

2

CRIME NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

Easy rider

IT could have been a scene out of the Sweeney or a James Bond movie, And police could not believe it when they gave chase to a car travelling at over 120km/h with a man clinging to its bonnet.

The Malaga driver is now facing reckless

driving charges after he drove the man for over five kilometres on the MA-21 towards Torremolinos at 4am.

According to police, the bizarre incident started after the two men had a scuffle outside a bar in the city. The driver was twice over the legal alcohol limit.

Bill linked to new abduction attempt POLICE are still desperately trying to find a dangerous paedophile after another young girl was nearly abducted in Velez-Malaga.

Spanish police have been searching for Robert Edward Bill, 58, since November 19 when a 12-year-old girl was dragged into a car in the town.

Now it has emerged that another girl, 10, was nearly abducted in the town last Monday, after a man in his 50s held her hand telling her he knew her grandparents.

Following alleged sightings of Bill in the area since last issue, his ex-wife has now

By Frances Leate come forward to appeal to him to give himself up.

Describing him as a ‘dangerous and evil’ man, his wife of more than 30 years has called on him to hand himself in.

She said: “He has no life now and should turn himself in. Neither me or our four sons have any contact with him anymore.”

In 2009, before the couple divorced, Mrs Bill and her son David admitted perverting the course of justice to protect Bill by destroying his laptop computer, which

Motorway muggers rounded up A GANG of modern day highway men who carried out a string of violent robberies on Spanish motorways have been arrested in Alicante.

The five Romanians used service stations along the AP-7 to target at least 17 victims in Murcia, Alicante and Castellon.

A Guardia Civil spokesman said the group, who used several rental vehicles to carry out the thefts, singled out vulnerable tourists and families.

“They did not hesitate to use physical force to get away from their victims when they had taken their property,” he added.

‘DANGEROUS’: Bill and his ex-wife contained scores of indecent images of children.

However, she claims that at that time she believed her husband to be innocent, but now accepts she was deceived.

Bill was jailed for 18 months for indecent assault and trying to kidnap a seven-yearold girl near his hometown in North Wales.

Outraged

Speaking exclusively to the Olive Press, Bill’s son, Stephen, 26, said he was outraged his father was even allowed to come to Spain in August this year.

He called for changes in the law after the convicted sex offender and ex-teacher was able to board a plane and set up home in Competa.

Just days later, he had secured a job at El Pino Properties in Torrox Park and befriended the unsuspecting expat community.

NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

It’s a boy!

‘The worst hotel in Spain’ lands UK tour operator in costly €250,000 settlement case

Very tall order

FAULTY TORRES

SEAVIEW rooms that look out over skips and bins, filthy water in the swimming pool and insects in the dinner…

It sounds more like the hotel from hell comparable to Fawlty Towers, not a four star hotel being offered to tourists by a reputable travel agent.

But these are just some of the things that scores of hapless holidaymakers experienced during their 2007 and 2008 stay at the Beach Club Hotel, in Torremolinos.

The nightmare holidays at the hotel, which has now been dubbed ‘the worst hotel in Spain’, forced tour operator and Thomson’s parent company, TUI UK Ltd, agreeing to a €252,978

TINY Tom Cruise got a much needed ego-boost when he stopped by the set of Spanish talk show El Hormiguero.

The 50-year-old actor has recently received some flak for taking on the role of Jack Reacher, a mammoth of a character who stands at 6’5 in Lee Child’s original novels.

The Mission Impossible star looked overjoyed however as he towered over the even shorter host Pablo Motos.

In his latest flick Cruise plays a no nonsense former police officer recruited to prove the innocence of an alleged assassin.

The release of Jack Reacher has been temporarily postponed due to the tragic school shooting in the US.

In with a chance IT is that time of year again, where the continent cringes at their nation’s Eurovision entry – apart from Spain, that is.

Unlike the UK – who usually opt for a has-been or failed reality TV stars – Spain has decided to pin its hopes on a successful chart band for the 2013 contest.

ESDM, a three-piece rock band who fuse folk and indie elements, will represent the country at the competition in Malmo, Sweden, in May. Word is still not out as to who will fly the flag for the UK, but Sophie Ellis Bextor is said to have turned down the offer.

Budget shopping RETURN: Sharif in Almeria HE may be an icon of the silver screen, but Omar Sharif has proven he still has time for adoring residents of the city which shot him into stardom.

The 80-year-old actor was in Almeria to pick up a lifetime achievement award at its prestigious film festival, which this year honoured his blockbuster debut Lawrence of Arabia.

Stopping outside the award ceremony, Sharif happily posed with fans and signed autographs before continuing with his hectic schedule.

3

SOCCER scouts and record producers please form an orderly queue!

But whether he becomes a footballer or a pop star, with his lineage this baby boy is bound to be a good-looking chap.

Singer Shakira, 35, is expected to give birth early next year – and the baby’s dad, Barcelona player Gerard Pique is so excited he has just tweeted a snap of the latest scan.

“His first pic! #excited #cute,” said the caption.

The couple have recently been spotted preparing their nest in Esplugas de Llobregat, near Barcelona.

The Hips Don’t Lie singer has released a statement to fans via her blog saying: “Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival our first baby!

We have decided to give priority to this unique moment in our lives.”

SHORT AND SHORTER: Cruise and Motos

Where it all began

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

ROYAL: Queen Sofia in the capital SPAIN’s Queen has been in London this week doing a spot of Christmas shopping.

La Reina Sofia spent several hours at Harrods, stopping in one of its restaurants between picking out gifts for her grandchildren.

While criticised for not spending her money in her cashstrapped home nation, the monarch chose foreign soil so she could pass unnoticed as she browsed the shops. But rather than staying at Mayfair’s five-star Claridge’s, priced at €2,000 a night – where she stayed during her last trip – this time she saved money by staying at the €380-per-night Melia White House near Regent’s Park.

By Frances Leate

payout days before a court battle involving 69 guests.

The guests say they suffered violent sickness, with some ending up in hospital and still suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome five years later.

Susan Ray, 65, from Darlington, Co Durham, still suffers bowel illness diverticulitis after being struck down with diarrhoea and

vomiting.

She said: “The hotel wasn’t very clean. The holiday was a disaster and I won’t ever go back.”

The action was brought by legal firm Irwin Mitchell on behalf of the guests, who each received up to €18,400.

Gurpinder Chana, a specialist travel lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: “This trauma has had a major effect on the lives of some of our clients, as they are still suffering with bowel conditions.

Hygiene

“The complaints we received suggested that that there were serious and unacceptable food hygiene issues at the hotel.

“We also received general complaints about the cleanliness of the hotel and the lack of support from staff.

“Our clients decided to take on the tour operators and because of their determination and commitment, justice has been done.”

The payoff follows a €3.8 million compensation deal made in 2008 to 1,000 Brits who stayed at the hotel.

4

4 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

Festive hampers HAMPERS of food, money and gifts have come pouring in from generous community members after a church launched a campaign to help struggling families at Christmas.

Members of the evangelical church, in Puente don Manuel, Alcaucin, made posters and held collection days in the local area and raised more than €650 in less than two weeks.

They then made 27 large hampers of foods, goods and goodies, each decorated in bright Christmassy paper.

On December 20 the much-needed hampers, as well as children’s clothes and toys were given to families in need.

They were also able to select clothing and bedding from the Charity shop run by the church, under the Maroma Inmobiliaria in Puente don Manuel.

Into the sidings EXCLUSIVE

by James Bryce EXPATS living in Cadiz, Malaga and Granada could be dealt a huge blow after the train line between Algeciras and Granada was threatened with closure.

The route is one of several which could be scrapped by operator Renfe, which is failing to generate enough income to cover its €478 million annual running costs.

All regional parties, including the PP party, have opposed the move, while the CC.OO trade union has not ruled out protest action.

The mayor of Algeciras Jose Landaluce said he was ‘extremely concerned’ about the closure, which would affect thousands of students attending Granada university, as well as travellers us-

Possible closure of Algeciras to Granada train line will have ‘huge impact’ on expats

AFFECTED: The closure could destroy businesses ing Algeciras port.

The closure would be bad news for the scores of expat businesses along the line who rely on income from hikers and day-trippers.

Struth! Gay marriage makes history

NEWLYWEDS: Aussies hitched in Spain A GAY marriage that made history has taken place in Spain.

South Australian social inclusion minister, Ian Hunter, tied the knot to long-term partner, Leith Semmers, at a ceremony in an art gallery in the town of Jun, in Granada, on December 20.

He is the first gay Australian MP to marry while in office.

The pair had planned to marry in the US last year but issues over paperwork forced the change.

Mr Hunter said he was disappointed his marriage would not be recognised in Australia but comforted by the fact more than 60 per cent of Australians support marriage equality.

“It will have a huge impact on us,” said Benaojan-based hotelier Andy Chapell, of Molino del Santo.

“We get up to 3,000 people a year coming to us for lunch having arrived by train and for many people travelling by train is all part of the experience.

“A lot of our guests also use it for day trips to places like Gibraltar and Tarifa and my daughter uses it to get to school.”

Fellow expat Paul Darwent, who runs Bar Allioli in Jimera de Libar agreed the possible closure would be bad for business.

“I wasn’t aware that it was being considered for closure but it will have a big impact and will inconvenience a lot of people,” he said.

“We get a lot of business from walkers using the line.

There are at least four or five people on each train and the numbers are a lot higher on weekends and holidays.”

The transport ministry is due to submit a list of the most costly lines around Spain at the end of the year, with a view to axing the least financially viable.

According to reports, a total of 328 stations in Spain receive no more than five passengers a day, 29 of which are used by no more than 10 passengers a year.

In 2011, the lines generated an income of €190 million, barely 40% of the €478 million cost and leaving Renfe with a deficit of €288 million.

www.theolivepress.es

5

NEWS

Chamber treat

THEY say people let their hair down at Christmas parties.

Well, the UK’s British Trade Ambassador to Andalucia Joe Cooper certainly didn’t let the side down when he strummed a guitar at the British Chamber of Commerce’s (BCC) Xmas cocktail party.

The Sevilla-based diplomat was in fine form knocking out Van Morrison numbers as the party at Marbella Golf and Country club came to a climax. The bash, sponsored

by HiFX, heard how well the Andalucia branch of the 100-year-old BCC has done this year.

SLOWHAND: Joe Cooper

EXCLUSIVE: Torremolinos animal home president ‘paid thousands to mayor’s brother’ and paid for town hall parties

Town hall link to ‘Pet killer’ TORREMOLINOS town hall may have ‘colluded’ with a beleaguered animal sanctuary in order to siphon off public money.

The Olive Press can reveal that the close relationship between Torremolinos Animal Parque boss Carmen Marin and the town hall may have tacitly allowed the extermination of over 2,800 pets without sufficient anaesthetic.

According to court documents seen by the paper, Marin made a number of, as yet unexplained, payments totalling over €50,000 to Mayor Pedro Fernandez Montes’s brother Jose Fernandez.

They were made in a series of six ‘to the bearer’ cheque transactions between December 2005 and March 2006. All of them were cashed by the brother.

By Jon Clarke and Eloise Horsfield

So far, despite questioning from the Guardia Civil, neither the brother or the town hall have explained what they were for.

The documents, which form part of the court case against Marin, also clearly show a steady paper trail between the town hall and the charity boss.

Intriguingly they show the animal charity boss stumped up the cost of at least one party for the town hall.

They also look at links between her and a construction company ran by the mayor’s brother and son.

One invoice of €55,000 and another of €13,000 is also being investigated.

Marin is currently being

Getting away with it!

A DISGRACED former Labour MP who cheated taxpayers out of €65,000 has been spared jail, despite the judge admitting people will think she has ‘got away with it’.

Margaret Moran - who has an estate near Orgiva, Granada – was instead sentenced to supervision and treatment orders after being deemed ‘too ill’ to stand trial.

It comes despite the MP being pictured going to a pub with friends last week. She is also rumoured to have been in Spain on holiday. This was despite her lawyers telling Southwark Crown Court she was so ill she could not leave home without being restrained.

However the 57-year-old may still be forced to pay the money back.

Moran forged invoices for goods and services that did not exist and claimed nearly her entire annual allowance in one bogus expense entry.

“There will inevitably be feelings among some that Mrs Moran has ‘got away with it’,” said Mr Justice Saunders in his ruling.

SUSPECT: Marin (left) with husband, had close links to mayor’s brother investigated for ‘inflicting pain on thousands of animals’ by not using sufficient anaesthetic to put them down.

She is also accused of using the charity’s money for hotel stays, driving lessons and spa treatments as well as favours for friends and family.

Torremolinos Town Hall declined to comment.

Meanwhile shareholders of the charity – who for 10 years had no idea animals were being put down inhumanely – continue to fight for justice.

“We all trusted her 100%,” said Ana Fernandez, president of the action group Accion Afectados Parque Animal. “Now we want her to pay back all the money. We know she has got it.”

A spokesman for the Guardia Civil said that it had put a request in to the court over the allegations and would get back when it had an answer.

Email Ana at accionpat@ gmail.com

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

5

6

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

OPINION Humans or numbers?

THE planned freight line for one of Andalucia’s most celebrated valleys was understandably hugely unpopular with locals and hoteliers And it’s not hard to see why.

There’s not many people who would want freight trains speeding past their home 24 hours a day, especially when you live in a breathtaking area of natural beauty like Ronda’s Llano de la Cruz valley.

And if you are trying to make a living out of running a B&B, promising your guests stunning scenery and a quiet, peaceful stay the prospect of noisy trains is not one to be welcomed.

So what good news that the politicians have apparently, for once, thought about the human and environmental impact of such a destructive scheme and ditched the idea.

But the truth is, the €711 million price tag was probably just too much for the cash-strapped government.

Energy trouble Spain is one of the most dependent countries on foreign energy in the EU, with only 0.4% of its oil and gas being produced here.

It is no wonder then that the government favours the idea of creating some home produced fuel, even at the expense of the local tourism industry, it seems.

Earlier this year oil company Respol insisted a drilling platform nine kilometres from the coast would not harm the tourism industry. The PP even claimed it would benefit it!

While there is no doubt the prospecting could lead to a discovery of some very lucrative gas, it would actually put the Costa del Sol at risk, claim environmentalists.

There is, after all, no way of guaranteeing a gas or oil leak would not happen.

And that could endanger the tourism industry on the Costa del Sol, which cannot be allowed to happen.

Spain should instead be focusing its efforts on utilising its natural resources to create more effective, efficient and renewable energy.

Run in with Ryanair Budget airline Ryanair has yet again showed its true colours.

More interested in the chance to make an extra buck from hapless passengers confused about the hand luggage rules than checking the destinations clearly written on a boarding pass, it seems the company needs to review its priorities.

An elderly woman left flustered after having to put her small purse in her bag on boarding and a young passenger who was allowed to board the wrong plane are all part of the Ryanair experience it seems.

Many cash-strapped travellers have no choice but to use the no frills airline to get home for Christmas, but that doesn’t mean they should be taken for a ride.

theEE

The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

olive press

FR

Tel: 951166060 (admin) or 952895230 (editorial) A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in southern Spain - 186,000 copies distributed monthly (120,000 digitally) with an estimated readership, including the website, of more than 500,000 people a month.

Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 Urb Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon 13, Arriate 29350 Malaga Printed by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es News editor: James Bryce james@theolivepress.es Reporters: Eloise Horsfield eloise@theolivepress.es Mason Jones mason@theolivepress.es

Distribution: 951 166 060 Design and page layout: Jackie McAngus Admin/advertising sales: Pauline Olivera admin@theolivepress.es SALES TEAM: West Costa del Sol Jane Jewson 673 958 858 Axarquia Charlie Bamber 661 452 180 Cadiz Elizabeth Gould 620 532 672 Ronda/San Pedro/Marbella Jon Clarke 691 831 399

M

OVING to Spain and building your perfect home is a dream come true for most Brits.

And after half a lifetime of working and two heart attacks that is exactly what Peter Doran, a builder from Blackburn, came out to Mijas to do.

He bought a plot of land and believing he had secured a licence he built his dream three-bedroom home for his wife Sue and daughter Justine, 16.

But ten years later disaster struck, when his home in Rio de las Pasadas was one of hundreds that were burnt to the ground during the Malaga fires in August.

“We had put our hearts and souls into that home and had been living the dream for a while,” explains Peter, 56, over coffee at a cafe in Mijas.

“I had suffered two heart attacks and the doctors said the warmer climate would help with my health. And it was working.”

That was until the night of August 30 when Peter described the blind panic when his family was phoned by a neighbour to tell them that the fire was inching closer and closer to their property.

“We’d been out for the day and immediately rushed back,” he recalls. “Thank god my daughter was staying with a friend.

“We got the dogs in the back of the van, my wife rushed into the house, grabbed a suitcase full of our documents like passports and birth certificates and that was all we had time to get.

“There was thick smoke, police and fire crews everywhere and cats, dogs and horses just running down the hill away from the fire.

“When we drove away that night, with just the clothes on our back and a suitcase full of paperwork we stopped the car and turned to look and there were just flames everywhere.”

The next day they went back with their hearts in their mouths to discover their home in ruins.

But while just a roof and rub-

Got a news story?

Contact our team of journalists in our Costa del Sol office on

952 895 230 or 691831399 or email newsdesk@ theolivepress.es

FEATURE

www.theolivepress.es

Our dreams in tatters In the week before Christmas, Frances Leate meets a couple of the families who lost everything in the August fires... and are still caught in an administrative nightmare stopping them from rebuilding their homes

DESTROYED: Sharron Cromwell´s dream home before and after the fire ble lying on the ground, Peter, a builder for decades, vowed that he would get it fixed up for the family as soon as possible.

But this was when he discovered to his horror that the licence he thought he had purchased to build the home ten years ago was actually just a licence to build a wall around

the land and paint it white. position is Sharron Cromwell, And while he had been itch- 46, from Oldham in Laning to get started on the re- cashire, who moved to Spain pair work he found out that 13 years ago. he would need to get a spe- She invested all her money in cial licence from the Junta or a mobile home in the same face going to prison. area of Mijas, a home which For the last three months, she fell in love with. “It was while he has been seeking absolutely beautiful, the surpermission from the Spanish roundings were stunning and authorities to rebuild, he has it was the home I had always been sleeping at a friend’s dreamed of,” she says. apartment with his wife, while “I worked for years running their teenage a bar to get daughter Justhe money totine has had gether.”

“I lost everything, to go to live in Miss Cromthe UK with a well, who says all my mums’ cousin. she still sufHe said: “It’s jewellery that she fers sleepless been heartnights after left me when she breaking for the tragedy, the whole insists she died” family; my will never fordaughter was get the night very settled of the fire. here.

“I came home after finishing “She just wants to be back work and all I could see were with her friends and her mum flames. I managed to rescue and we just want our lives my two dogs and that was it. back to how it was before the “I lost everything, all my fire. mums’ jewellery that she left “I am ready to start the re- me when she died, a doll I building work this minute if I was given as a child and evcould, but I know I would be ery single photograph I had risking prison if I did.” ever taken.

Another person in the same “I don’t even have one photo-

www.theolivepress.es graph of my son, who lives in the UK, any more.”

Miss Cromwell, who works at La Cala Golf Course, has spent the last three months staying with a friend, but says she is uncertain about her future.

“It has just been a case of trying to survive. I couldn’t insure my property; the authorities wouldn’t let me as it VICTIMS: Doran and Cromwell was a static home.

“So despite living here for 13 years, the English community here I would paying all my taxes and social secu- be completely alone. rity I still can get no help whatsoev- “The clothes I am wearing today er. “I feel so numb and traumatised have been lent to me from a friend. I and if it wasn’t for the support from have nothing left.”

Birth of the Phoenix

The Phoenix from the Flames campaign was born out of the night after the fire when dozens of expats consoled themselves by repairing to the Phoenix Bar, in Mijas Costa.

Here they shared their stories and found mutual support in each other, as well as practical help, such as clothes and food.

From then on the community of expats has been an invaluable source of help to each other and formed the Phoenix Campaign.

With the help of the Olive Press, which has launched the ‘Phoenix from the Flames’ campaign, it is hoped that these people can finally get permission to repair and rebuild their homes and their lives.

But until then, many of them are facing a Christmas without their homes and belongings and just the haunting memory of the night a terrible fire took away everything they had ever worked for and dreamed of.

FEATURE From Page 1

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

7

Mayor supports campaign

years.

Nozal insisted he was sympathetic to their cause and pledged to help by immediately clearing rubble and make their properties secure during the winter months.

However he insisted he could not speed up the process, de-

spite wanting to.

“When the fires happened we said these were exceptional circumstances and we must allow people to rebuild while waiting for the legalisation process.

“I wrote a letter to the Junta outlining the case for starting repair work as soon as possible, but the Junta has incredibly up to six months to reply.

“This means we should not expect anything until March.”

He added: “I have sympathy, but I know how things work here in Spain and Sevilla, time doesn’t exist in the same way.

“It is crazy. Things take too long to happen and in the meantime people suffer.”

He continued: “It is very frustrating for these people; all they want is common sense to prevail.”

And he added: “You must appeal to the human side of the Junta politicians. Admit that while you know the homes were not legal like

Advice: Mayor in talks

many thousands of properties throughout Mijas you just want to live in your homes as you did before this tragedy.”

He continued: “It is crazy that people could be prosecuted and could go to prison if they so much replace a brick before they get the proper permissions.”

The mayor also urged campaigners to form an association, to get in touch with the British Consulate and write individual letters to members HOPE: OP Reporter, of parliament.

Frances, with campaigners Fire victims now hope to A FIRE victim who has seen his family split up and his dream home destroyed in take their camthe wake of the Malaga fires told the mayor he believed politics came before human paign to Ojen tragedy.

Town Hall, In an outburst at the end of the meeting, Peter Doran, whose daughter has had to where many live with relatives in the UK after their home was reduced to rubble, told Angel Noother people zal he thought it was an outrage that he and his family were at the mercy of a slow lost their and bureaucratic political system in Spain. homes.

He said: “It seems to me that politics is more important than human suffering.

They also vow “Your sympathy is not enough to get me and my family back together and living in to have a prothe way we were before this tragedy. test outside the “The fires were not our fault, yet we are being punished for it.”

Junta in Sevilla in the new year.

8

2012 ROUND UP

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

Crimefighting

www.theolivepress.es

OH WHAT A YEAR I

T has been a busy year for the Olive Press, which has doubled in both numbers and profit since the beginning of 2011.

Bucking the trend for newspapers, we have grown rapidly and are now covering all eight provinces of Andalucia, and have recently strengthened our coverage on the Costa del Sol with 100 new distribution spots in Mijas

Eloise Horsfield and James Bryce take a look at the key events at the Olive Press throughout 2012 and Fuengirola and 50 in Marbella alone.

Most of our success however has been down to reporting and the quality of our journalism and it has been a year of frequent change.

We have introduced no less than four new sections this year, including a dedicated section for the Axarquia, a

distinctly different region, where we have a large loyal following.

Hand in hand with distribution to all the international schools we launched a youth section OPX, and green page to keep you up to date on all the environmental news from around the region. As well as continuing our series of popu-

lar All About Andalucia supplements, in October we launched a new complementary health page.

For the fifth year running we brought out our annual Green Guide.

And then there was our hoard of exclusive stories, many of which have been followed up abroad or nationally around Spain.

Here are some of the best:

CONS: Driver, Muldoon and Wright PORN films, wife-swapping parties and jet-set lifestyles... there wasn’t a dull moment for the Costa del Sol’s crooks in 2012.

But the party came to an abrupt end for some – most notably timeshare fraudster Toni Muldoon – after he was extradited to the UK for his part in a €7.4 million escort and ‘debt elimination’ scam.

Elsewhere, financial advisor David Driver, from OIB, fled to the UK after a group of expats claimed to have been mis-sold financial products by him, while Alhaurin boiler room boss Terry Wright moved to France after feeling the heat from the authorities in Spain.

Meanwhile Spain’s largest ever corruption investigation, the Malaya case, finally came to an end with former Marbella Town Hall property chief Juan Antonio Roca facing 30 years in jail for his role.

Finally, the bosses of crooked building firm the Mirador group received two-year sentences for keeping €400,000 in deposits from prospective buyers.

Dig, dig, dig WE pride ourselves on investigating matters that other papers are incapable or too scared to touch.

These included a wedding planner who vanished without paying for a number of weddings, as well as uncovering some fascinating links to the French Alps murders on the Costa del Sol. We probed a spate of mysterious pet deaths that heralded from Mercadona pet food, a story that would run and run both in our paper and around the country.

Then there were the recent comings and goings of the Conservative Party members and their hotel at Montejaque, as well as the uncovering that an anti-smoking drug closely linked to de-

pression and suicide was on sale over the counter in Spanish pharmacists.

One of our best stories involved a dis-

VICTIMS: Jacaranda residents

pute at Villa Jacaranda care home in Alhaurin in which owner Georgie Shapiro allegedly concealed the death of a resident in order to make a fast buck selling two of his properties.

We also, of course, dug around on the scandalous behaviour of pet transport firm Pet Taxi after the two dogs died in transit between Spain and the UK – prompting a barrage of phone calls from readers on the firm.

Finally we shone a torch on the number inaccuracies of the Trip Advisor website in Spain by using a team of specialists and rival websites to show up how wrong its listings were in four Andalucian towns.

Green and pleasant land ENVIRONMENTAL issues are close to our hearts here at the Olive Press. This year we have kept tabs on a crazy plan that would see Tarifa develop protected land near Valdevaqueros beach (above), leading to mayor Juan Andres Gil blaming ‘environmentalists’ and ‘guiris’ for finally sinking the project.

We have also kept a close eye on the continuing attempts by oil company Repsol to prospect for gas just a few kilometres off the Costa del Sol, as well as the long-running saga to stop sewage flowing into the sea in Nerja.

As in previous years we have continued to watch the comings and goings of the scandalous 400-room Algarrobico hotel, in Almeria, which has STILL not been demolished.

There was better news in Ronda though when last month it was finally announced that the controversial golf development Los Merinos was ruled legal in Andalucia’s High Court.

After years of highlighting abuses within the 200 hectare development on the edge of the Sierra de las Nieves, its licence has now been cancelled.

Doing some good - campaigning THE year started off with a bang, when the Olive Press reunited Oklahomabased Eva Weston, 36, with her long-lost cousin Maria who had seen her picture in the paper in our Christmas 2011 edition.

Then, in May, 74-year-old Ian Dennis was delighted after our story led to him getting the knee surgery he had waited a year for at Malaga’s Virgen de la Victoria Hospital.

In November, after two years of following him we finally got confirmation that corrupt lawyer Samuel Huesca Triano would be investigated by Malaga Law Society and possibly struck off for up to two years.

Under our continuing campaign ‘Lawyers in the Dock’, we revealed how Triana stole €22,000 from a client while incredibly the Law Society did not see initially it as a good reason to ban him from the bench.

And as we end the year our recently-launched Phoenix Campaign aims to help victims of the fires start to rebuild their homes. A campaign that will continue into 2013, this week (see front page) we met Mijas mayor Angel Nozal to try and speed up the process.

FLASHBACK: Revealing corrupt lawyer Triano and (right) our Phoenix campaign for fire victims

www.theolivepress.es

Not all doom and gloom

APART from the serious stuff, we like to bring you some more light hearted stories as well as a bit of humour.

Some of our best included exclusive claims that the President of Russia had bought a huge mansion in Zagaleta, as well as the continuing problems caused by tenor Stephen Lloyd Morgan’s cat Oscar.

We also spotted a Borat-lookalike in Pamplona and reported how Rafa Nadal got all worked up after a ‘funny’ French ad campaign depicted him signing a document with a syringe.

In April, a group of expats completely messed up their Grand National sweepstake after getting confused about what year it was, while a company in Madrid offered €2,000 a month for an employee to literally watch the grass grow.

In May we reported that two pensioners in Periana had been fined and ordered to dig up a line of prickly pears planted in their garden, while in Madrid one poor soul was treated for burns after being hit in the scrotum by lightening.

2012 ROUND UP FURY: Nadal hated the syringe cartoon

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

9

STRATOSPHERIC THE OLIVE PRESS HAS HAD A FANTASTIC YEAR ONLINE WITH TWO NEW WEBSITES AND ITS MAIN SITE ENTERING WORLD’S TOP 100,000 SITES

AS well as launching two new sites - www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com and www.allaboutandaluciaproperty.com -our main website has gone into the stratosphere with up to 100,000 ‘unique’ visitors using it each month.

Most importantly the website sits at around the 100,000 mark in world-rankings, according to site Alexa. com, while our rivals Sur in English and Euro Weekly News are floundering at 386,000 and beyond 500,000 respectively. Even dedicated and well established sites such as Typically Spanish have dropped well below us at 140,000.

Much of this is due to the site constantly improving its content with five or six new stories loading up each day, and we have increased our Facebook ‘likes’ from around 100 to almost 950 and our Twitter followers now number over 1,750.

10

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

10

NEWS

News IN BRIEF

Puppy love EIGHT police officers in Benalmadena have posed with their pets to create a charity calender for the Animals and Plants Protection Association.

More Mijas The Mijas population has topped 80,000 for the time according to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE).

Kenya we come Marbella based emergency service company Helicopteros Sanitarios is expanding into Kenya with staff travelling to train new workers there soon.

www.theolivepress.es

One is not amused

Baroness calls for a U-turn in the satellite changes threatening British TV in Spain A CHANGE in satellite settings that could lead to the loss of British TV channels in Spain has caused outrage by from expat member of the Royal Family.

Baroness Hilde Von Voss, a distant relative to The Queen, has written a stern letter to the BBC asking for an explanation of the change, which has already deleted Channel Five.

Gordo handout UNEMPLOYED and elderly people are receiving free Christmas lottery tickets on the Costa del Sol. The Yo Producto Andaluz association has given out 1,500 tickets for the El Gordo lottery in a number of towns, including a soup kitchen in Benalmadena and a home for the elderly in Torremolinos.

If the group’s number wins, each participant will get a €20,000 payout.

By Frances Leate In the open letter the member of the Austrian-Hungarian Royal Family, wrote: “I am amazed to find that some changes to the satellite system are going to deprive hundreds of thousands of loyal British Citizens the ability to see BBC television.

“I’m included in this unfortunate group.”

The Baroness said she believed many people would rather pay a fee through a ‘viewing card’ than lose the service altogether.

She added: “I had to move to southern Spain due to illhealth but was consoled by being able to see South Today and other BBC programmes.

“Even if this is unavoidable, whose cruel idea was it to do it before Christmas?”

After Channel Five, the BBC, ITV and Channel Four are also expected to follow suit next year.

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2013

11

12

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

Green news IN BRIEF

Water worries THE WWF has claimed that plans presented by the Environment Minister to clean up the Guadalquivir river in Donana National Park are ‘insufficient’

Dune award The Asociacion Pro Dunas Bahia de Marbella, which fights to protect Marbella’s dunes, has received the Andalucia Environment Award.

Wind away A new wind farm under construction in Campillos has received the declaration of public utility needed for its completion.

Oil protest CAMPAIGNERS were due to stage a protest outside Mijas Town Hall today (Saturday) in an effort to stop oil drilling 9km offshore.

Citizens Against Oil Exploration on the Costa del Sol are to meet at 12pm to read a manifesto against the joint plans of the government and oil giant Respol.

Local PSOE mayors have already joined Greenpeace activists in publicising the risks of oil drilling, fearing a disaster similar to that of the Prestige oil tanker spill in 2002.

Concerns

Concerns have also grown about the effect oil exploration will have on the Costa del Sol’s tourism industry, the leading source of employment in the area.

For more information on Citizens Against Oil Exploration on the Costa del Sol contact: 650 952 081

GREEN NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

I’m sorry

Regional government launches cycle scheme but retains 263-strong fleet of vehicles

YOU CYCLE, WE’LL GO

BY CAR THE Junta has come under fire after promoting a cycling scheme but failing to reduce its own fleet of official cars.

The Andalucian Bike Plan aims to make 10% of the main roads in the region’s towns and cities accessible to bikes, and to increase cycling by 10% in the next

five years.

A Junta spokesman said the scheme was intended to increase ‘sustainable travel’ and reduce the numbers of people using private cars.

But ABC newspaper slammed the Junta for ‘not practising what it preaches’ after it emerged it had done nothing to reduce the num-

Anchovy go-ahead SPANISH fishermen are free to catch anchovies again after the government negotiated a quota exchange with Portugal.

The Environment Ministry had halted anchovy fishing on August 31 this year after it was discovered the annual quota had been met by the Spanish fleet – who operate mostly in Cadiz and Galicia.

But now, after Environment Minister Miguel Arias Canate exchanged quotas with Portugal, 650 more tonnes can be fished.

Canate explained that the aim is

ber of official cars from 263 to 103, despite announcing plans to do so five months ago.

In July the Junta said only its president Jose Antonio Grinan – plus ministers and other high-up government members – would be able to use the cars.

It added the 160 surplus would be used elsewhere, a move it claimed would save €3 million.

to ensure annual quotas last the whole season, rather than running out halfway through.

In 2011 Spain was penalised for catching more anchovies than its quota allowed.

Retaliation

Sadly these extra cars still stand outside government buildings.

In retaliation, the Junta argued it has until December 31 to get rid of the excess vehicles – adding that efforts have been made in recent months to encourage Junta directors to share car trips and save costs.

FORMER Spanish PM Felipe Gonzalez (above) has stepped down from his presidency at Donana Natural Park after admitting he does not have enough time to do the job.

Gonzalez, during his three years at the top of the park’s council, Gonzalez has come under fire many times from green groups Ecologistas en Accion and WWF. Both regularly called for his resignation following his failure to turn up to meetings and conferences.

Neutral

“Being president at Donana does not mean attending one meeting every six months,” said Donana’s WWF rep Felipe Fuentelsaz.

On resigning, Gonzalez said: “I decided that if I can’t do it well, the most responsible thing is to find a replacement as soon as possible who can devote more time and efficiency to the job.”

The search is now on for a new Donana president, a post which WWF say would need to be filled by someone ‘neutral’ and perhaps with a scientific background, who would be ready to ‘fight for Donana’.

Ivory smugglers using Spain SMUGGLERS involved in illegal wildlife trafficking could be using Spain as a new route to avoid detection, according to a wildlife trade-monitoring network.

It follows the seizure of a shipment of elephant ivory, the largest ever discovered, intercepted by authorities in Malaysia having come from Spain.

The shipping containers, carrying 1,500 tusk sweighing a reported 24 tonnes, travelled via Spain en route to China from Togo.

“This latest seizure indicates a new trade route – West Africa to Spain, and then on to Asia via the Suez Canal,” said Tom Milliken, an expert on ivory at the wildlife trade-monitoring network Traffic.

GIBRALTAR NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

Never shut it again!

ANNIVERSARY: 30 years since Franco (here) shut the border

GIBRALTAR and La Linea have come together to mark the 30th anniversary of the reopening of the frontier.

The blockade, in place for 13 years during the Franco era, was lifted for pedestrians on December 15, 1982.

During the closure, de-

signed to sink Gibraltar’s economy, Spanish workers left the Rock and telephone communication was cut.

“The government salutes the resolve and spiritual strength of past generations of Gibraltarians, who suffered the blockade and

united as a people to resist the concerted efforts of the Spanish government to take the sovereignty of Gibraltar,” read a government statement.

“Many of these are alive today and can take comfort from their contribution to our political, cultural and social evolvement.”

Minister obtains injunction following discrimination claims

XMAS PARTY RACE ROW

A GIBRALTAR politician has obtained an injunction against a crossborder workers’ association over allegedly defamatory remarks made on Facebook.

Environment Minister Joe Bossano has said that accusations that Spanish and Moroccan workers were banned from a Christmas party were ‘ridiculous and unfounded’.

On the social networking site, workers association CITYPEG claimed the employees were prevented from attending the event, which was held

by government-owned construction company GJBS last week.

The allegedly defamatory material has now been removed from the social networking site.

Regret “The Government regrets that it was forced to take such action and wishes to stress that it will always staunchly defend people’s right to freedom of speech,” said a government spokesman.

“This freedom does not, however, give anyone the right to make false and seriously defamatory statements and allegations such as the ones which are the subject of the injunction.”

In an earlier statement the government had strongly denied the allegations, stating: “There is absolutely no truth to the allegation which has been made that the government or any minister may have had any hand in deciding who should be invited to any Christmas party organised by GJBS.”

Debt

La Linea mayor Gemma Araujo marked the occasion by urging the Spanish government to consider the impact of the current sovereignty row on the residents of the town.

“The opening of the border ended a Franco-era measure that, irrespective of the national or international political goal, represented a hammer blow to our city unlike that suffered by any other city,” said Araujo.

“I urge everyone to continue on the road of good neighbourly relations, and the Spanish government to realise it has a debt with this city.”

13

Gib IN BRIEF Schoolboy error A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted burglary after triggering an intruder alarm at St Bernard’s School.

No pot luck Gibraltarian Dennis Hurtado, 19, has been handed a three month sentence after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cannabis.

Kidnap car Royal Gibraltar Police are helping investigate an armed kidnap in Los Barrios after a Gibraltar-registered car was seized in the investigation.

Whooping woe Health officials have reported a sharp rise in the number of whooping cough cases in Gibraltar this year.

14

14 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

Axq IN BRIEF Damp squib ALMOST 50,000 fireworks have been seized by local police in Velez Malaga after it was discovered they were not authorised to be sold.

Food help Schools in Nerja have carried out a food collection project this week designed to help families in need.

No trade A quarter of Velez Malaga’s commercial premises lie empty according to recent data from the traders and businesses association (ACEV), with many having been left for several years.

AXARQUIA NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

FACING THE MUSIC

125-year-old band consigned to history as economic crisis makes it impossible to continue playing

THE music has finally stopped for Motril Town Hall’s band following a ruling by Andalucia’s High Court.

In wranglings that have lasted over three years, it was finally decided spending €400,000 a year on the 34-strong ensemble could no longer be justified.

In 2009 the entire band, made up of wind and brass instruments, lost their jobs – but their sackings were later declared null and void by a labour court.

Deputy mayor Jose Garcia argued at the time the band was ‘not essential’ and that it was a ‘dispensable service’.

Now, following an appeal to Andalucia’s TSJA court, it has been ruled that the closure was in fact justified given Motril’s budgetary needs.

THE contract for Nerja’s long-awaited sewage plant Despite everything, education has finally been signed by central government and councillor Elena Vallejo said the group which si set to build it. she was proud of the band and In October a budget of €23.2 million was awarded its 125-year history and has to temporary consortium Corsan-Corviam-Isolux, suggested its members form which now has until March 2013 to present the govan association ‘with a tighter ernment with a concrete plan. budget’.

Nerja mayor Jose Alberto Armijo called the develop“We hope to come to an agreement ‘one more step’ in the process of building the ment so they can continue to sewage works, which he described as ‘very important perform concerts,” she said. for the area’.

Band members have been given 10 days to appeal.

Progress for sewage plant

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

15

16

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 70.60% full Same week last year: 76.84% Same week in 2002: 51.24% 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 1.3258 American Dollars 0.8151 British Pounds 1.3114 Canadian Dollars 7.4605 Danish Kroner 10.275 H Kong Dollars 7.3611 Norwegian Kroner 1.6153 Singapore Dollars

Dear Olive Press I EMIGRATED to Spain with my wife six years ago and by and large, we enjoy our life here.

Like many, we have experienced poor administration and questionable decisions in some areas of local government.

It was, therefore, not surprising to read that Ryanair intend to reduce flights to Spanish airports because of increased tax charges.

When will the Spanish ‘authorities’ become aware of the economic realities of such decisions?

Ryanair’s reaction was entirely predictable, as are the probable consequences of the airport authority’s actions, such as job loses, reductions in tourism and subsequent loss of revenue.

I have flown with Ryanair many times and it is consistently the cheapest operator in its class and always delivers on time, resulting in the airline attaining outstanding growth in recent years.

The company is a role model that Spain could benefit from studying.

If Spain were to appoint Ryanair’s chief executive as it’s financial consultant,

LETTERS

www.theolivepress.es

SPAIN’S CRASH LANDING the country would be ‘flying’ again within three years.

Michael Stevenson, via email

Up in smoke My husband and I have noticed several bars where customers and even the owners are blatantly smoking, even though there are notices everywhere prohibiting it.

Has the law on smoking gone soft in Andalucia?

Margaret Riordan, Torrox

Sky’s not the limit Regarding ‘No more CSI’ (issue 150), all this fuss

about not being able to receive British TV. What’s the point in living abroad if people are going to try and cling on to all the dross which is churned out over there in the UK? In any case most of the decent programmes are available in English right here on Spanish TV. All you have to do is access the menu and change the language if Spanish is too much of a challenge.

Amparo, via website

Spanish TV trauma Regarding ‘No more CSI’ (issue 150), I can’t abide

most Spanish TV. Much of it is like a competition to see how many people can speak at once, and that’s only when you aren’t forced to sit through six minutes of adverts.

I will miss things like Masterchef and Strictly Come Dancing and children’s TV for my son, as most of the stuff on the Spanish kids’ channels is frankly appalling.

I love Spain, its people, its language, but I love British TV more!

I would happily pay a licence fee to be able to still get the BBC. I wonder if anyone there hase considered that option?

Sarita Clark, via website

A dog’s life Regarding ‘Our Christmas heartache’ (issue 150), please adopt a dog from a rescue centre.

It will come with a microchip, passport and most importantly a full set of vaccinations including the one to protect it from the highly contagious Canine Parvovirus Infection (CPV).

The rescue shelter will ask for a donation to cover the cost of this.

Ann Murie, via website

Phone plea

I write hoping that your readers may be able to advise my wife and I with our problem getting a landline installed.

We live in Puente de don Manuel in the Axarquia and have been trying to get a telephone line installed for the last six years.

We have been told that no more capacity is available in our area but the digital system is so weak that most days we get no signal Regarding ‘We Three Kings… of Andalucia’ (issue 150). at all.

It should be remembered that there is no contemporary historiWe are in our cal evidence that Jesus existed. late 70’s and The Gospels are allegorical accounts of an ancient truth, that all my wife suflife is accredited to the sun. fers from deAfter the solstice, on December 25, the sun moves by one degree mentia, so we towards the spring equinox, thus the three stars in Orion’s belt really do need (three Kings), align with Sirius (star in the east); that aligns with a reliable telethe new born sun (Jesus). phone in case It should be noted that the constellation of Virgo (known as the of an emerVirgin) is prominent at this solar event every year, thus Jesus gency. the sun is born of a virgin.

What to do?

Horus of Egypt was born on the 25th of a virgin, as was Krishna, Buddha, and many more sun gods before the Jesus story.

R.S & J That is the real meaning for celebrations at this time of year.

Fletcher, Axarquia Robert McCulloch, Riviera del Sol

Sunny Christmas

ED: Whatever you say Robert!

PLE WR ASE ITE

Letters should be posted to Urb. Cayetano Arroyo, Buzon 13, Arriate 29350, Malaga or emailed to letters@theolivepress.es The writer’s name and address should be provided. Published opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor.

A

S

www.theolivepress.es

ll about the

Issue 151 December 23 2012

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

ierra Nevada

17 17

The Sierra Nevada is going back to its 1960s heyday and fast becoming one of Europe’s hippest skiing resorts, writes Jon Clarke

L L I H P U K C A B I’

M sitting in the Marbella Club watching the most spectacular of sunsets. It is a bracing evening, but a chilled bottle of 1925 Alhambra beer slips down nicely to an ambient soundtrack straight out of Ibiza.

The main difference... I’m not overlooking the sea, but sitting ABOVE the cloudline, watching the sun go down over the ski slopes of the Sierra Nevada.

In what must easily be Andalucia’s most exciting new boutique hotel of the year, the Costa del Sol’s famous Marbella Club group has opened a chic retreat on the Granada slopes.

The 20-room style palace – designed by Briton Andrew Martin – is the epitome of ‘cool’ and Turn to Page 19

SUNSET VIEW: Marbella Club terrace and (left) skiers trudge uphill in the 1960s

18

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

Sierra Nevada special

www.theolivepress.es

From Page 17

the perfect addition to what is fast becoming one of Europe’s hippest ski resorts.

Already seeing the return of the Spanish royals, who traditionally frequent the Pyrenees to ski, there is a real sense that the Sierra Nevada is moving back towards its 1960s heyday when the likes of Sean Connery and Prince Alfonso Hohenlohe regularly came up for holidays.

An off piste paradise

SKIING: the act of sliding down the side of a mountain on a pair of low friction planks “The Prince brought friends such as Sean up to the slopes,” explains Marbella Club area general manager Franck Sibille. “This was the place to come for the rich and famous who spent much of the year on the Costa del Sol.” Local businessman and boss of EIE Skiing School Antonio Serrano agrees.

“In the 1960s everyone knew of the Sierra Nevada, but somewhere in the mists of time – perhaps with the property boom of the 1980s and 1990s - it got forgotten.”

“But now it is finally making its way back again.”

There is no doubt that this is the case. Having visited the resort for the last six years I have seen a distinct move upmarket, in particular with the arrival of better quality restaurants.

These include stylish Italian Ci Vediamo and this year Argentinian-run Antares, which serves up an incredible

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

INTENSE: Top tricks and a visit from Santa (top) cerviche straight out of Peru.

There is a new wine bar in town and even a Veuve Cliquot champagne bar half way up the slopes.

One restaurant Campo Base recently catered for Prince Felipe and his wife Leticia, who turned up by helicopter for a couple of days skiing.

None of this however, should come as a surprise with the resort now counting no less than 105 kilometres of runs, the second highest ski area in Spain after Barqueiro (115kms) in the Pyrenees.

But then you have to factor in the weather and

CHIC AND CHEERFUL: A group of British snowboarders from Marbella drink beer while Spanish senoritas sip champagne at the new Veuve Cliquot bar

length of season in the Sierra Nevada, which is longer than almost any other resort in Europe.

While it’s foggy in the Pyrenees and they’re shivering in the Alps, this month I was able to ski down the slopes in just a long sleeve shirt.

Even better, a coffee and bottle of Lanjaron water came to just over three euros... and that was half way up the slopes!

“Here we sell the weather, not the number of kilometres,” explains David Navarro, of el Remonte ski hire shop. “And mostly prices have not gone up for three years.

“On top of that you are just over an hour from the beaches of Almunecar and half an hour to the Alhambra. That is hard to beat.”

At the same latitude as Cyprus and just 30 miles from the beaches of the Costa del Sol, it is nothing short of amazing that you can ski here from December through to May. This is all to do with the altitude of the Sierra Nevada, which has its highest peak in Mulhacen, a staggering 3,482m above sea level.

From the top of the highest ski lift, at 3,300 metres, the views make the Mediterraneanan below look like a small pond, with half the coastline of Morocco clearly in view.

19

to poor snow).

“Since then the infrastructure changes were huge and it is now a big resort,” explains Jose Maria Rada Calvo, or ‘Chechu’. The 57-year-old has been running his ski school and rental business Snowpeople in the resort for over 30 years.

Giles Birch, who runs the British Ski Centre, says the resort has one of the longest seasons in the world, opening at the start of December and often going through to mid May. “There have even been snowfalls in June and when the snow and weather are favourable, the openness of the terrain provides some of the most exhilarating off piste skiing to be found anywhere.”

And then there is the famous adage that it is easy to have a morning’s snowploughing in Sierra Nevada followed by SKIING: Who would have thought it could have the an afternoon on the beach.

Two years ago, local Granada become so popular since Norwegian Sondre newspaper Ideal decided to Norheim invented the modern binding in the try it out the theory, picking a day in May and a cou19th century and called the resulting downhill sunny ple of foreign students based in Granada. traverse slå lom (meaning tricky route)?

Picked up in Granada at 8am they were skiing on the slopes It is an amazing place, al- spot of lunch, and there is a from 9am to 1pm, before takthough it can be a little nippy fair amount for children to do, ing the 75 minute drive down up there with the wind whis- with entertainers and Disney to the Costa Tropical resort of tling past, so make sure to figures wandering around at Salobrena. bring a coat and jumper.

“It worked perfectly and by holiday time.

Competent skiers are spoilt It has also, rightfully, got 3pm they were settled in eatwith the amazing runs of the a ing a paelgood Laguna de las Yeguas area, reputation la on the including the celebrated Olym- as being beach,” “I DO not participate pic run, which is full of twists a resort explains and turns. in any sport with Santiago for fun, You can sometimes find your- with the Sevilla, self skiing alone midweek for f a m o u s ambulances at the bottom from Ceup to ten minutes and the a p r e s of the hill” Erna Bombeck, tursa, the sheer nature and landscape ski being company (1927-1996) are spectacular. that runs some of It certainly pays to pick your the best in the resort. days to visit with Christmas Europe.

“Then by and Semana Santa see- The resort really started to 9pm, not ing the resort rammed, with evolve quickly from 1995 content to call it a day, they sometimes big queues for the when the World Skiing Cham- were having a tapas crawl ski lifts. pionship was scheduled to around the Albaicin of GranaThen there is Semana Blanca be held there (it actually took da just to add the icing on the (literally ‘white week’) – or place the following year due cake,” he adds. half term at the end of February – when school children can learn how to ski, IT is incredibly easy to have a day or two skiing in Europe’s most while bank holisoutherly skiing resort. days can also be Just two hours from the Costa del Sol, you head up to the resort of very busy and Pradollano, 20 minutes above Granada, where you can park easily in getting up to the the underground car park right below the main square for around 20 resort can be euros for the day. slow.

Staying longer - or on a budget - take the turning left, marked ‘alberThat said, probgues’ just before you arrive and head uphill through a pine forest, lems can be before taking a right towards the resort. missed by arrivDrive down a long windy road through the resort, keeping your eyes ing by 8.30am peeled for a free space, but beware tow trucks are out in force and or by waiting till you will be towed away if you park badly. midday.

From here, you are a five or ten minute walk down to the centre of the While a modern resort, where you will find dozens of places to rent skis and buy your resort, Pradol‘forfait’ (or ski pass) from a machine using your credit card. lano itself is a It is not cheap at between €41 and €45 for a day’s skiing, but you can pleasant place get a half day for just over 35 euros kicking off at 1pm and children to simply take get decent discounts, with Under 6s going free. in the air or a

Planning your trip

20

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

Sierra Nevada special

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

Everybody’s going Surfin Surf your way to winter wonderland

RADICAL: There are plenty of exciting obstacles and a half pipe in the Sulayr Superpark

T

HIS winter everybody’s going surfing and there’s only one place to do it -The Surfin snowboard centre in the Sierra Nevada, Spain.

A snowy haven for snowboarding fanatics and newbies alike the centre offers classes for men, women and children of all ages and abilities.

The sport has taken the world -especially southern Spain- by storm over the last few years and the trendy discipline, which is a perfect mix between skateboarding and surfing, can be enjoyed at its best at the centre.

Melanie Benarfa, who runs the centre with her husband, Gaston Marinoni, estimates that the numbers of snowboarders in the Sierra Nevada has doubled in just five years. And she is expecting to go up even more.

The Surfin centre is also one of only two places in Spain (after Xanadu in Madrid) to be chosen as an official Burton ‘Learn to Ride’ centre.

“It is a great place for kids to learn how to snowboard and for adults the Sierra Nevada is easily one of the best places for nightlife in Europe,” says Melanie.

Europe’s most southerly resort now has a superb snowpark perfect for snowboarders and freestyle skiiers.

The Sulayr Superpark is bigger than the previous Borreguiles Park and is definitely a lot more adventurous (see right).

It is designed to allow snowboarders and skiers to practice jumps and acrobatics on three different natural and artificial modules without running into each other.

The revamped area in Loma de Dilar and previously used by cross-country skiers, is very much geared towards a younger clientele.

It boasts new features including wifi for internet users, a massive sound system and a completely fresh look which stands out from the rest of the resort.

21 21

22

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

22

Sierra Nevada

www.theolivepress.es

Looking for something more than just traversing the slopes. Why not take a journey into the Andalucian outback?

Off the scale!

T

HERE is off-piste... and then there is off the scale!

With Telemark you can have a wilderness trip that literally ends up in another world... the charming cobbled villages of the Genil valley or the Alpujarras.

Specialists on the slopes for over two decades, the company offers one and two-day cross-country adventures into the mountains.

Both trips end up taking you through deep off-piste snow onto narrow mountain tracks.

“We try to put an emphasis on ecology and nature and it is impressive to see the typically old farmhouses in the area and how little they have changed,” explains boss Luis Casanova.

“It is a real, fun adventure, something you will not forget.

“Best of all, a team of mules ends up helping to bring your stuff

ADVENTURE: Off piste hikes take you into the Alpujarras back to Pradollano,” adds Luis.

The day trip costs just €100 per person and includes transport and lunch.

The company can also help organise hardcore uphill climbing for mountaineers to a half day soft snow walking trip with snow rackets.

Another company, Snowpeople, also organises

off piste mountain adventures.

One of the best sees participants heading off up the Barranco de San Juan and ending up in Lanjaron, in the Alpujarras, on the other side, from where you will be brought back by car.

“You are likely to see mountain goats, foxes and plenty of rare birds on the journey,” explains Jose Maria ‘Chechu’ Rada Calvo.

“It is a real adventure and something you will not forget for a long time.”

HELPING HAND: Mules carry your equipment home

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

23

24 24

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

HARDY: At weekends a number of cars would make it up to the slopes and many would stay at the alberge (below)

Bar owner Jose Carlos Villanueva lived for five years in the Sierra Nevada from the age of six, after his father landed the plum job of running the only hotel on the slopes.

He ended up returning as a skiing instructor and now runs Casablanca bar. Here he is below today and (right) as an eight-yearold with his older sister in the 1960s.g

Ear we g

The only sensible way to the top of the slopes was by donk arrived in Pradollano via a two hour bus ride from Granada

T

HE only way to get to the top of the slope was to walk... or take a friendly donkey!

Indeed, until the first two ski lifts (Borreguiles and Parador) were built in 1969, this was the preferred route.

The resort actually dates back to 1912 when Spain’s oldest ski club, the Sierra Nevada Society was founded.

However, it was not until the 1920s – with the modernisation of Granada’s roads that the Sierra Nevada started to become known.

By the end of the 1950s a bus used to chug its way up to the slopes, while cars would

turn up in their dozens at weekends.

Visitor numbers slowly grew from then and, in 1964, Cetursa, a business dedicated to reserving ski tickets, was founded.

It was around then that the resort was at its most glamourous with the likes of Principe Alfonso Hohenlohe, the owner the Marbella Club hotel, regularly bringing up friends, including Sean Connery to ski.

He is pictured below with friends at the resort and also skiing in a short-sleeve shirt.

One of the longest-established workers in the resort Jose Carlos Villanueva (pictured left as an eight year old) and today remembers the 1960s well.

He was one of the men that helped to make the Costa del Sol Europe’s number one playground for the rich and famous. And Prince Alfonso Hohenlohe (right skiing and left, ‘number 2’, with friends) was a regular visitor to the slopes, often bringing celebrities up such as Sean Connery

“I actu slopes the onl at a ph He had ther go just thr Living prise t return a teache Now, a ing an – Jose Bodega

www.theolivepress.es

go!

key and you da

ually had my first communion on the wearing ski boots and a jersey. I was ly one in Spain,” he explains pointing hoto of him as a child, with his sister. d arrived there in 1961 when his faot a job running the ‘alberge’ one of ree buildings in the resort back then. there for five years, it was no surthat he always had a strong urge to and at the age of 15 he became a ski er. appropriately – after 38 years teachnd an incredible 50,000 students Carlos is running the charming bar a Casablanca.

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

25 25

Kids’ stuff One Sierra Nevada company claims to run the only dedicated course for under fives in Europe, discovers Jon Clarke

T

HE Sierra Nevada is the perfect place for kids to learn how to ski.

With its expansive nursery slopes, dedicated family area and numerous skiing teachers specialising in youngsters it is well set up for children.

And then there is the weather, which is normally many degrees higher than its counterparts in the Pyrenees or Alps.

Best of all, a number of companies specialise in courses for youngsters, with one EIE claiming to run the ONLY dedicated course for three to five-year-olds in Europe.

Until the course was launched last year, most under fives had to spend their day at the Dreamland creche, an undoubtedly fun time, but with little time on the actual snow.

“We decided we wanted to ski with them,” explains boss Antonio Serrano. “Get them out onto the slopes to learn and have some fun.”

Sponsored by Madrid’s prestigious Runnymede College (where David Beckham’s kids went to school), the groups head out for three hours a day, normally in the morning.

“We have five instructors dedicated to this age group and there are never more than six in a class,” continues the father-of-two from Antequera, who has taught in the resort for nearly two decades.

“We adapt all the lessons to the age and have plenty of games and singing and ski in the special reserved area.

“By the second day they are going up to ski from the top.”

Serrano, who bought the school four years ago, has also introduced a system by which the kids are taught in English, where possible. “The parents love that,” he adds.

The courses cost €80 euros per child for the weekend and all equipment is free.

For more information visit www.sierranevadaeie.com

FUN: The youngsters on the slopes and (above) EIE boss Antonio

26

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es

Sierra Nevada

27 27 the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013 27

The mayor of the slopes ‘Chechu’ Rada Calvo has been the ‘glue of the Sierra Nevada’ for 40 years...and now he finally has a family helper

F FAMILY VALUES: Chechu with his daughter Maria

OR nearly four decades he has been running the show in the Sierra Nevada.

And the boss of Snowpeople ‘Chechu’ Rada Calvo certainly leads by example, whether it be working in the checkout in his supermarket, sorting out ski rentals or flipping burgers in his fast food joint.

“Everyone has got to put in that extra effort these days,” explains Chechu, who moved to Granada from La Rioja in the 1970s.

His latest venture is a tie up with drinks company Red Bull and his Snowpeople cartoon characters can be found all over the resort.

And finally he has found someone in the family, who might one day take over the reigns of the busi-

ness.

Daughter Maria, a marketing graduate, has just joined the team straight from university and is also brimming with ideas and enthusiasm.

“I love working with my father and I hope I can bring some new skills to the table,” she says.

Her father adds: “The children are the future and we have always taken particular care of children and families and that is where we concentrate our abilities.”

The company is also taking particular care of Olive Press readers by offering a 10 euro coupon off ski hire via the advert in this supplement.

For more information on prices visit www.snowpeople.es

A very British pastime Ski teacher Giles Birch still loves the Sierra Nevada two decades on

H

AVING taught around the world, Giles Birch knows a few things about skiing.

So when he insists that the Sierra Nevada is becoming one of Europe’s top resorts you have to take him seriously.

“It is easily as good as most other international resort and the range of skiing and schools is hard to beat,” explains

the co-owner of the British Ski Center.

“What makes me really sad though is that so few people around the world have heard of the resort.

“It is quite unfair as there is great snow for long periods of time and there is almost always amazing weather.”

Birch, who has been teaching in the resort for two decades, particularly likes the length of the season.

“We start in late November and stay open until early May while other resorts don’t open until mid December and end their season in March.”

This is partly due to the resort’s altitude and the quality of the snow which is constantly worked on during the night.

“That’s why you’ll never see slush even in the latter part of the season.” he adds.

Visit www.britishskicenter.co.uk for more info

Sierra Nevada special

28 28

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

WHERE TO STAY

I

T is hard to describe Pradollano as an authentic mountain village.

But, with a metre of snow on the ground and the sun finally out, it certainly has its charms.

In terms of places to stay there are plenty of modern hotels, such as the stylish Sol Melia in the heart of the town or the five star Vincci at the top of the hill.

But by far the hippest – and one of the coolest in Andalucia – is the recently opened El Lodge, owned by the Marbella Club group (see belw).

Bought by the group earlier

www.theolivepress.es

WHITE OUT! this year, the stunning conversion was undertaken by London interior designer Andrew Martin and it counts nu-

merous stylish touches.

O n c e built for the King of Spain, the 20 r o o m boutique hotel counts the only skiing resort outdoor pool, heated to 38 degrees, in Spain.

Another true stalwart is Hotel

Kenia Nevada, which is well located near the centre of town and open all year. Run by the friendly Don Pedro, it is clean and serves up one of the best breakfasts in Spain.

It also has gym and plenty of communal areas.

For those looking for a budget option why not stay outside the resort at Hostal Los Puentes, which also has an excellent restaurant with superb home-cooked food.

WELL RUN: Kenia Nevada and (left) Los Puentes

Open now for nearly 40 years, the owners are friendly and make a big effort to make you feel at home. You can park for free and get up early to drive into the resort.

Another good option is to rent

an apartment in the resort, which can cost from 50 euros a night.

The best specialist for this is Nievemar (www.nievemar. com), which has an incredible 50-plus places to rent.

A stylemeister’s dream Olive Press editor Jon Clarke is the very first guest to spend the night in the Sierra Nevada’s most exclusive new hotel El Lodge owned by the Marbella Club group

POOL TO POOL: The lounge with pool table and 38 degree pool outside. Below the bar

Y

OU arrive to a pair of bronze lions at the front door and a Hummer in the drive!

And as you check in a brand new iPad is thrust into your hands ‘for any of your needs and, of course, to check your mails,’ explains amiable manager Francisco.

There is literally nothing normal about the latest addition to the hotel scene in the Sierra Nevada.

With Spain’s only outdoor skiing resort swimming pool – heated to 38 degrees – and a Turkish bath, sauna, gym and jacuzzi in the basement, El Lodge was designed very much with an emphasis on luxury.

Expect to be wowed by the dozens of special touches from the 14-speaker sound system on the terrace to the Space Invader video game in the lounge. There are even electric toilets with heated

seats that do everything but sing to you.

A total refurb of a classic wooden chalet, once built for the King of Spain, there is no doubt that the latest addition to the Marbella Club group, owned by the Shamoon family, is going to be a huge hit.

Faux skin throws, cow hide armchairs and stylish antlerchandeliers I was lucky enough to be the very first guest to stay in the hotel, as part of this supplement on the Sierra Nevada.

The place is a true stylemeister’s dream. Using the skills of London designer Andrew Martin, it has the feel of a hunting lodge, but with natural materials that echo its lo-

CHARM: Rooms have an alpine feel with worldly touches cation.

Its alpine charm has been complemented with faux skin throws, cow hide armchairs and stylish antler-chandeliers. It also has playful touches such as Martin’s signature patterned wallpaper, wooden animal heads and Smeg fridges in the corridors and little silver bears guarding the entrance to the spa. The African drums in the bedrooms are great fun.

There is a cool bar area with Campari lights and a true patrician-style lounge, with a blazing fire and pool table.

Both have armies of comfortable leather sofas and stylish decorations.

There is even a children’s play area equipped with ev-

erything your kids might need to have some fun when not on the slopes.

Best of all though is its restaurant, which has a similar menu to the Marbella Club grill and a similar team of top class chefs and waiting staff. The tartare of tuna with avocado was elegant and tasty, as was the wild sea bass with guacamole.

With just 20 rooms, the lodge retains the feel of a private chalet and can be booked by room per night or in its entirety for private parties.

More information and bookings www.ellodge. com

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

29

30

30 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

Sierra Nevada

WHERE TO EAT

E

VERY year the quality of food improves in the Sierra Nevada.

While you might expect canteens and raclette aplenty, the truth is you are rather well served in the gourmet stakes and variety is surprisingly good.

Without a doubt, the most consistent is the brilliant Italian restaurant Ci Vediamo, where chef/owner Stevie Silva produces a great Michelinstar quality range of food.

Silva, a professional snowboarder, has plenty of light bites, a splendid pizza oven and some chestnuts such as a superb duck roll with ginger, guacamole, tuna and soy sauce.

There are fabulous mini ‘gambas pil pil’ hamburgers and a lot of the classics such as provolone with tomato and a pesto pizza which takes some beating. The wine list has a superb and good value range.

For great value, down-toearth food head to Pourquoi Pas? Around for nearly 50 years, and still in the same Sanchez family, this lovely place is a little hard to find but is well worth seeking out.

A warm atmosphere, it has charming old beams and a really authentic, if simple menu, with a true sense of belonging.

Chef Miki has trained all around the world, particularly in London, and does a great potato tart with blue Cabrales cheese, as well as a fabulous niscalo mushroom dish in a Roma sauce.

Another interesting place is Campo Base, set up by a talented energetic couple Maite and Luis, who have a well known restaurant in Cabo de Gata in Almeria. Linked to a same name outdoor magazine, it is a pleasant spot, where the Prince of Spain has even eaten.

Next door, though is a fabulous new addition to the local restaurant scene, Antares, which is a restaurant and cocktail bar.

Set up by Argentinians Hector and Rosario, the vibe here is cool and the music always a key element of the mix.

Here, you must try the incredible Black Angus beef –

www.theolivepress.es

Mountain of choices Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke is surprised by the incredible range on offer in the Sierra Nevada

TALENTED: It’s certainly Michelin star quality at Stevie’s Ci Vediamo known as ‘the caviar of beef’ - which is imported from the US and is one of the most succulent steaks I have ever tried.

The Peruvian Cerviche, made from mashed sole sweet potato and lime was superb

Even better perhaps was the incredible slightly warm Cerviche, a Peruvian dish which mixes mashed sole with sweetcorn, sweet potato, tomatoes, pomegranate and salad. A twist of lime makes up the mix.

You might also want to check out another classic stalwart of the resort Little Morgan

run by charming Julio Antonio Plaza for over a decade.

A well established spot, it is great for kids (and the odd celebrity too) and is usually busy.

That said, it is Julio’s new joint, appropriately called il nuovo that is really exciting.

This hip spot, minimalist in design is serving up an inter-

Thanks to skillful welltravelled chef Juan Arenas Blanco, from Calpe, it came perfectly seared and was served with a baked potato with goats cheese and chives.

WORLDLY CUISINE: Julio at Il Nuovo Little Morgan (left) and talented team at Antares (right)

www.theolivepress.es

31

MIX: From outdoor dining at Tia Maria to authentic Porqoui Pas? and team at Casablanca

esting range of dishes from tapas to meals, all with a stress on good ingredients.

For a great place to eat overlooking the slopes make your way to Tia Maria, which has a good mix of dishes and is a great place for breakfast.

Last, but not least, you should not miss Bodega Casablanca, run by Jose Carlos Villanueva, who grew up on the slopes, with his father opening one of the first hostals in the 1960s.

He, of course, knows a fair bit about catering, and the bar has a great range of photos and memorabilia and is a good place for tapas or simply to hang out.

His chef Mari Fe, from Pais Vasco, knows a bit about food too and you will love the prawns wrapped in potato with a soya mayonnaise, as well as lovely lamb chips with whisker thin wild asparagus.

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

31

32

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

la cultura

33 the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013 33

www.theolivepress.es

July 26, 2012

Bullring gets €4 million roof for Christmas A CHRISTMAS circus is to be held at Madrid’s bullring thanks to a brand new roof protecting the venue from the cold.

The cover is designed to enable the 18,000-capacity Ventas arena to be used for concerts and sporting events during the winter months in Madrid, when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.

Entertainment group Warner Music has already invested €4 million leasing the 81-year-old building between October and March over the next three years.

Made of aluminum and PVC, the 160-ton cover – complete with its own temperature-controlling system – will be dismantled in time for 2013’s first bullfight at Easter.

Christmas bonanza Festive surprise as church fresco ‘restorer’ flogs own art for €1,000

SOME might say it has been a bad year for a certain Spanish pensioner who became a laughing stock after botching the restoration of a 19th century painting.

But Christmas has come early for Cecilia Gimenez, 80, after she managed to sell a painting of her own for over €1,000 on eBay. Gimenez, from Borja in

Aragon, made headlines all over the world in August when she attempted to ‘touch up’ the Ecce Homo portrait, by Elias Garcia Martinez – with disastrous results.

But this week, it was good news for the pensioner after a landscape of her village (right) fetched €1,080 on bidding site eBay. Gimenez had donated painting the ‘Bodegas of

Santa’s night off AN expat author is giving away three eBook titles in the lead-up to Christmas.

The books by Simon Hugh Wheeler, 46, from Ronda, will be available from December 19 to 23 on Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.es.

They include Santa’s Night Off, a family comedy about what would happen if Santa was ill on Christmas Eve, and Happy Juice, based on the search for true happiness.

The final book in the giveaway by the Australian-born writer is The Wise One, a story for 10 to 12-year-olds about caring for the environment.

what’s on

B

eas, Huelva, now until January 1 most days. Belen Viviente (Live Nativity) featuring live animals and performances, plus gift shop with local handicrafts as featured in the belen.

C

ordoba, now until January 6. Galleros Artesanos, Rute. Spain’s largest nativity scene made entirely from chocolate! The nativity measures 52m2 and weighs 1400kg. Tel 957 539 022

A

lmeria, December 26. Fiesta del Pendon. A march through the streets celebrating the recapture of the city from the Moors in 1489, plus a fireworks display later in the evening.

Borja’ to church-owned radio station Cope in nearby Zaragoza, which decided to sell it online.

Within four hours nine bids had been made on the oil on canvas, pushing up its price to over €400.

The price eventually reached over €1,080 with a total of 52 bids made.

Charity

All proceeds will go to the Catholic charity Caritas.

While shunning media attention when the news of the botched painting broke, Gimenez has since embraced her popularity and will be appearing on Spanish TV channel Neox in the new year.

34

la cultura

34 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

Christmas in Spain THE Christmas tree, a staple feature in almost all British homes at Christmas, is often much smaller in Spain or nonexistent. Families will instead have a belen, a small nativity scene which includes Mary, Joseph and Jesus as well as the Three Kings. Other figures also include animals and community characters such as a farmer or the local blacksmith.

The first significant day of the festive calendar is December 8, a public holiday known as La Immaculada (Feast of the Immaculate Conception).

The draw of the lottery, El Gordo (‘The Fat One’) takes place on December 22 and will see whole families gathering round the TV to see if they have won.

Christmas Eve is known as Nochebuena in Spanish, which is a family gathering with a big meal where people eat turron

By Frances Leate

S

LAPPING on suncream and reaching for your sunglasses is not the usual ritual associated with celebrating Christmas – but for tens of thousands of expats settled in Spain, Christmas can mean just that.

While there may not be the need to wrap up warm next to a log fire while watching the Queen’s Speech, there is instead many things for expats to do.

Christmas in Spain is a much more subtle affair, with a lack of gaudy Christmas decorations in towns and cities, a welcome absence of pukeinducing Christmas songs (usually featuring a warbling Mariah Carey) and the complete non-existence of the crazed Christmas shopper in a frenzied panic over what to buy.

Lisa Sadleir, 41, has spent the last 20 years living in Spain with her husband Ed, 44, and two children, Joshua, eight, and Francesca, five.

They spend every other Christmas in Spain, with the other year in the UK, to ensure their children get the best of both worlds.

She said: “The children experience both the Spanish and the British Christmas traditions and we make sure they don’t feel like they are missing out on anything living here.

“Christmas in Spain is a lot more commercial than it was a few years ago, with more money being spent on Christ-

(nougat made of toasted sweet almonds).

Children receive just one gift from Santa on Christmas Eve, with the main presents given out by Los Tres Reyes (Three Kings) in January.

Christmas Day is another leisurely lunch; many Spaniards are still doing their Christmas shopping on Boxing Day right up until the evening of January 5.

January 6 is the day all Spanish children are waiting for – the equivalent to Christmas Day in Britain – when Los Tres Reyes visit to give them presents. Many homes are decorated with ladders and effigies of the Three Kings climbing through windows.

A Spanish Christmas

Frances Leate chats to British expat Lisa Sadleir about getting the best of both worlds during the festive season

delicious Spanish sweets in keeping with the Spanish tradition and then we have a traditional turkey roast dinner on Christmas Day with all the trimmings, there’s not much you can’t get from Iceland!

“I’m a fan of Jamie Oliver and whenever I am EXPATS: The Sadleir family at Christmas in Spain I make homemade mas lights which go up at the a walk on the beach with our Christmas cake and mince start of November and more dogs, and if we miss the snow pies. fiestas, but it doesn’t get quite we can go sledging in the Si- “Then, of course, on January 5 we go to see the King’s Paerra Nevada. as crazy as it does in Britain. rade in Mijas “Of course with it being beau- “In Britain it’s with all the tiful and sunny you are not a bit of a trawonderful balsnuggled up next to a fire in dition to take children the same way but the good the Some things you loons and confetti and the weather means we can go for to see a pancan’t replace like children get tomime so out one last preshere we take settling down to ent on Januthem to see a good episode of ary 6.. the children’s Lisa does adtheatre in Downton Abbey mit that apart Malaga, which from famcosts as little ily and friends as €30 for all the one thing she does miss four of us.

“There are also so many during the festive season is Christmas fairs where we British TV. can get unique presents “There are some things you for friends and family back can’t replace, and settling down to a good episode of home.

“The children are doubly Downton Abbey or a classic spoilt as they get to open one Christmas film with the family present on Christmas Eve with the snow falling outside CHRISTMAS SCENES: High Street stars and a and we have cold meats and is one of them!” she said.

climbing Santa

Top Dollar

www.theolivepress.es

British debt to top Spain’s

BRITAIN’S debt will be worse than Spain’s within three years, according to statistics.

By 2014, the UK’s gross debt will be 95.7% of GDP, compared with 93.8% in Spain, while the eurozone average will be 94.3%.

It means by 2015, Britain will owe nearly as much as it earns. A factor which could lead to Britain’s AAA credit rating being downgraded.

51

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

35 35

EGYPT EMBARGO Seven homes among €28 million of assets blocked as part of international investigation into Mubarak SPANISH police have seized seven properties in Marbella as part of an international investigation against former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak.

The homes are part of €28 million of assets to be blocked in Spain, which also includes

€18million in investments in Spanish banks, two properties in Madrid and five luxury cars.

The seizure was carried out following a petition by the Egyptian government to block the assets of 130 people linked to

the despot (pictured right).

The 84-year-old, who ruled Egypt for three decades, is serving a life sentence for failing to prevent the death of hundreds of protesters during the Arab Spring uprising last year.

Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander

A

S we all know, one of the major side effects of the economic downturn is the unemployment figures and these are significant in Spain at present.

They have been bad in the UK as well but one of my major complaints is that we forget to count the positives because the total employment in the UK has actually been climbing.

I was pleasantly surprised the other day when I read an article in the UK national press which had some interesting statistics,

2013: Is your glass half full or half empty? not only showing that unemployment in Britain has fallen but also quoting that employment is at an all time high since the recession hit.

There have also been concerns about the loss of jobs in the public sector as the austerity measures are implemented.

And yet for every public sector job that has been lost in the last four years, five jobs have been created

in the private sector.

Now that to my mind is a glass half full whereas unemployment statistics in Spain I would view as a glass half empty!

While the unemployment figures are a lot higher than in the UK, unemployment has always been high in Spain and even at the peak of employment; dole figures were almost in double figures.

I am not trying to make a political

statement here or indeed to make light of the problems that unemployment brings, but my observation is that if we focus only on the half empty situation, it has a negative effect that not only tends to compound the negativity but also means that we will miss opportunities.

For some, the downward trend in property prices for example has had a very negative effect but for others, it has created opportuni-

ties and in fact, it would seem that property investors from the UK in particular, are on the increase again in Spain.

The time to capitalise on any market position before the herd instinct takes over and everyone starts buying.

This is true in many market situations and is certainly so when looking at investments in equity markets or equity linked invest-

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

ments.

It all comes down to confidence and human nature.

Confidence comes from seeing others do well and taking the decision to join them.

The earlier you join, the better the result is likely to be.

And so as 2012 draws to a close and thoughts are about Christmas and the New Year, why not resolve to take the glass half full approach and make 2013 a positive year to look forward to.

36

36 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

Top Dollar

www.theolivepress.es

AGONY ANT

E

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

VERYBODY knows there are consequences for not paying tax.

This applies equally to the annual tax return any nonresident Spanish property owner is obliged to submit prior to the end of the calendar year.

It is also well known that in times of financial constraints, many firms competing for business will put their marketing machines to work full steam to try to get as many customers as possible, even if that means employing tactics that verge on scaremongering and other questionable practices.

Below are some examples we have come across: • The Spanish Tax Authority is now taking unpaid taxes direct from bank accounts (as read on an expat forum); They are certainly doing this but not just now. The tax office works in a relatively modern fashion and it applies throughout Spain and to residents, non-residents, Spaniards and foreigner alike.

• Consequences: If you ignore your tax obligations or these letters, your bank account will be frozen until your tax debt is cleared (as read in a Spanish tax advice site); This is not true,

Scaremongering tactics and the facts Antonio Flores uncovers the truth behind some of the rumours surrounding non-resident tax issues bank accounts are not frozen unless a court orders this, as a result of a criminal investigation. What really happens is

that the tax office blocks the sums you owe, you are then notified of this and within 20 days, the sum is transferred to

Ask Ant

Q. What is the “empadronamiento”, and can I qualify?

A. This funny sounding word is basically the act of registering with your local authority, and although it is not obligatory per se, it will be required to access medical facilities, obtain certain type of grants, register with local schools and apply for some types of residency.

Also, it will give the EU- citizen applicant the right to vote in municipal elections.

Town Halls encourage people to register as this is also used to receive higher budgetary allocations from the Central Government.

Q. What can be done about a noisy bar below my apartment?

A. Businesses that are noisy have to comply with very strict national and municipal regulations.

If a business, for example a bar or a restaurant, has levels of noise that are not bearable then the first thing one needs to do is report it to the local police, who will check that all licenses and permits are in order, that the doors are not left open and that noisy customers don’t gather outside late at night.

It may be the case that the noise is unbearable even when the conditions are met, in which case you will have to hire an expert to measure the decibels inside your apartment and consider suing the Town Hall.

the tax office. You can still use your account during this time.

• In general non-payers can expect to have to pay the tax they owe plus interest and a “sanción” which can add between 50% and 150% to the bill.”

This is true, and the percentage of fine will depend on the size of the due tax, whether there has been any deliberate concealment or the use of fraud. Generally, most if not all taxpayers will fall in the 50% fine category which will also accrue arrears interest.

• Where more than four years have passed, the tax office cannot chase the debt.” This is true, provided they haven’t formally started a procedure to recognise, regularise, check, inspect, guarantee or calculate one or more of the tax bill elements.

Whatever you choose to do with your taxes, it is wise to keep in mind that the hacienda is gradually increasing its pressure: as the American Will Rodgers once said, “…The only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets.”

The blame game UK must get its own house in order before pointing the finger at its neighbours, writes Keith Spitalnick

R

ATHER like the weather, the outlook for the UK economy and sterling looks remarkably bleak as markets digest the failure of Chancellor George Osborne to meet his debt targets.

As the rating agency, Fitch, threatens to cut the coveted AAA rating for the UK, many pundits are now suggesting that Britain can no longer blame external factors for the lack of growth in the domestic economy.

Clearly the mess that is the eurozone is having a negative impact but in real terms only 16% of UK exports go to Europe.

Further afield, the ‘fiscal cliff’ in the US and the slowdown in China are worrying developments.

However, it is high time that all the stone throwing stopped and the UK government realised that a preoccupation with austerity and cuts will not help the economy return to growth.

Fiscal stimulus is the only way to rebalance what is a balance sheet recession.

With the road to recovery now looking like it will stretch out to 2018, the only thing that is keeping the chancellor to his current tactics, is the fear of being seen to change his mind.

The distressing outcome of this belligerence is that the UK will have to endure a prolonged cut in living standards.

If, and it is still an if, Fitch and others do cut the UK’s credit rating, the cost of borrowing will go up, rebalancing will disappear over the horizon and UK companies will be devalued by global equity markets.

This scenario, with all the extra money floating about in the wake of excessive quantitative easing, has the distinct smell of persistent high inflation about it.

This will leave Britain trapped in a stagnant economy coupled with the sceptre of rampant inflation.

Mr Osborne, stop blaming the neighbours and get your own house in order before it’s too late.

Keith 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 the office in Centro Plaza, call 951 203 986 or email olivepress@hifx.co.uk

www.theolivepress.es

ANTONIO

E

VERYBODY knows there are consequences for not paying tax.

This applies equally to the annual tax return any non-resident owner of a Spanish property is obliged to submit prior to the end of the calendar year.

It is also well known that in times of financial constraints, many firms competing for business will put their marketing machines to work full steam to try to get as many customers as possible, even if that means employing tactics that verge on scaremongering and other questionable practices.

Below are some examples we have come across:

• “…The Spanish Tax Authority is now taking unpaid taxes direct from bank accounts (as read on an expat forum); They are certainly doing this but not just now. The tax office works in a relatively modern fashion and it applies throughout Spain and to residents, nonresidents, Spaniards and foreigner alike.

• “…Consequences: If you ignore your

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

tax obligations or these letters, your bank account will be frozen until your tax debt is cleared (as read in a Spanish tax advice site); This is not true, bank accounts are not frozen unless a court orders this, as a result of a criminal investigation. What really happens is that the tax office blocks the sums you owe, you are then notified of this and within 20 days, the sum is transferred to the tax office. You can still use your account during this time.

• “ … I n general non-payers can expect to have to pay the tax they owe plus interest and a “sanción” which can add between 50% and 150% to the bill.” This is true, and the percentage of fine will depend on the size of the due tax, whether there has been any deliberate concealment or the use of fraud. Generally, most if not all taxpayers will fall in the 50% fine category which will also accrue arrears interest.

• “ …

Where more than four years have passed, the tax office cannot chase the debt.” This is true, provided they haven’t formally started a procedure to recognise, regularise, check, inspect, guarantee or calculate one or more of the tax bill elements.

Whichever one chooses to do with their taxes, it is wise to keep in mind that the Spanish hacienda is gradually increasing its pressure: as the American Will Rodgers once said, “…The only difference between death and taxes is

that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets.

Q. What is the “empadronamiento”, and can I qualify?

A. This funny sounding word is basically the act of registering with your local authority, and although it is not obligatory per se, it will be required to access medical facilities, obtain certain type of grants, register with local schools and apply for some types of residency.

Also, it will give the EU- citizen applicant the right to vote in municipal elections.

Town Halls encourage people to register as this is also used to receive higher budgetary allocations from the Central Government.

Q. What can be done about a noisy bar below my apartment?

A. Businesses that are noisy have to comply with very strict national and municipal regulations.

If a business, for example a bar or a restaurant, has levels of noise that are not bearable then the first thing one needs to do is report to the local police, who will check that all licenses and permits are in order, that the doors are not left open and that noisy customers don’t gather

37

38

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

38

Top Property

www.theolivepress.es

BIGGEST BARGAINS YET Ratings agency reports 65% fall in price of properties seized by banks this year

UNSOLD: More than a million homes are on the market PRICES of repossessed homes sold by banks in Spain have fallen 65% this year, according to a report by ratings agency Fitch.

The drop represents the

sharpest decline in prices since the financial crisis began and suggests prices have fallen more than twice as much as government figures show.

Tax axe for foreign company purchases SPAIN is to scrap tax on property purchased by foreign companies, the government has announced.

The move, which comes into force next year, is seen as the latest attempt to encourage foreigners to invest in Spain’s struggling property sector.

Property tax can be a large expense for home owners in Spain, with the government raking in €30,000 a year on houses worth €1 million.

The reforms also include a plan to end taxation on the Spanish equivalent of real estate investment trusts, which is expected to go down well with foreign investors.

British home boom PROPERTY sales in Malaga have shown the first sign of improvement in four years.

Sales have increased by 3.5% in the nine months to September compared to the same time last year.

Foreign buyers were responsible for nearly a quarter of the properties pur-

chased, snapping up 3,099 of the 12,692 houses sold in that period, according to the Ministry of Public Works.

Of those homes, 30% were bought by Britons, placing them at the top of the list of foreign investors in Spain’s property market.

The decline is relative to the property’s value when the initial loan was granted, with the average price of repossessed homes having fallen 50% since 2007.

“Fitch believes that the factors weighing on the Spanish residential property market will continue to deteriorate,” the report states.

Seized

“The gap between original valuation and the sale price is a reflection of a distressed mortgage market, characterised by high borrower indebtedness, constrained affordability and falling property prices.”

More than a million new homes remain unsold in Spain, while Spanish banks have seized more than 200,000 residential properties, leaving the market saturated.

On top of this is the increased difficulty buyers are facing when trying to obtain a mortgage.

According to the Ministry of Public Works, Spanish house prices have fallen 25.5% since the 2008 peak.

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

31 39

40

40 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

In the swing of it

www.theolivepress.es

THE OLIVE PRESS’ MONTHLY GOLF SECTION

Going down a storm SPANIARD Sergio Garcia has claimed an impressive 11-underpar 61 to win the rain-hit Iskandar Johor Open in Malaysia.

Garcia’s final play was not affected by the adverse weather conditions, which caused delays throughout the tournament, as he secured victory over American Jonathan Moore.

“The most important thing about playing under these kinds of conditions is to keep the momentum going, especially with so much disruption,” said the 32-year-old Ryder Cup winner.

“It’s hard to keep up mentally and I sort of did that yesterday morning where I finished poorly but today I came back stronger.

“It has been a great experience as this is my first time in Malaysia and to be able to win is a treat,” he added.

The result makes Garcia the eighth member of Europe’s Ryder Cup team to win since their remarkable comeback at Medinah in September.

Teen dream

A TEENAGER from Yorkshire has become the first amateur to win Spain’s Gecko Professional Tour.

18-year-old Nick Marsh, over from Britain for the tournament, came up trumps with a one-stroke victory at Almenara Golf Club in Sotogrande.

Following his win, the tour moved on to La Reserva Golf Club where Marsh and Spaniard Raul Quiros shared the lead during a weatheraffected first day.

Marsh went on to score birdies on five consecutive holes in the less windy second round, setting him up to cruise comfortably into the final holes, ending with a score of 68.

Comp winner

Garcia wins Iskandar Johor Open despite extreme weather conditions OFFERING: Coach Glen Billington,

EXPERIENCED: Sergio Garcia

THE Olive Press is delighted to announce the lucky winner of our recent golf competition.

Tony Bartle, 72, who lives with his wife in Caleta de Velez will be picking up putting tips from golf professional Glenn Billington in the new year.

A very pleased Bartle, originally from Leeds, who has never played the game before said: “My wife entered me and I had no idea so it’s quite the surprise!”

Glenn Billington, 53, owns academies not only in Spain, but throughout the UK and in Switzerland.

C E ..................... ......................

Sponsored by: www.theolivepress.es

Checks to curb dangerous revelry A PRE-CHRISTMAS campaign has stepped up anti-drink-driving efforts in an attempt to keep the roads safe throughout the festive period.

Crackdown

During a two-week crackdown which ends on Sunday, around 20,000 tests which have been carried out each day across the country by Spain’s traffic department with drivers tested randomly for booze and drugs.

Motorists testing positive face fines of €500 and the loss of four to six points on their licences – with the worst offenders charged with a criminal offence.

n Buen

amino

41 4723- January 09, 2013 41 the olive press - December

GREEN CARS GET GREEN LIGHT

SPANISH energy giant Endesa is to test two prototype electric cars provided by vehicle manufacturer SEAT. In the year-long trial, Endesa employees will drive a minimum number of kilometres each day in order to collect performance data to be analysed before the cars go into full production.

The pilot scheme, in Cataluna, will use an all-electric Altea XL Electric Ecomotive and a plug-in hybrid Leon TwinDrive.

GREEN: The electric SEAT The TwinDrive has a range of 52km and can travel at 120km/h when in electric mode, while the Altea has a Smartphone app allowing the driver to recharge the battery.

New driving tests NEW-STYLE practical driving tests will come into force across Spain on January 21.

The new assessment will include an ‘autonomous

driving’ section of 10 minutes or so, where the examiner will give minimal instructions such as: ‘Go to the bullring via the town hall’ – and the pupil will be

required to simply drive there.

Drivers will also be given the option of using a GPS system to help them during their practical test.

C lassifieds

24 42 the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013 42

the olive press

40

www.theolivepress.es

To place your classified, please call 951 16 60 60 or email admin@theolivepress.es 83 cents per word. Minimum charge based on 10 words per issue and a minimum of 2 issues. IVA not included All ads include the first 2 words in bold. For all text in bold add 25%

Display boxes Single column display box 35 euros per issue Double column display box 49 euros per issue Three column display box 72 euros per issue

SERVICES Bargain Car Hire!

Try group

B.basic Check out

www.hellehollis.com and you will be pleasantly surprised! *special conditions apply

HOLIDAY

Malaga Airport

www.hellehollis.com Tel.: +34 95 224 55 44

Full name and passport or NIE number must be provided when advertisements are placed. All ads must be paid prior to publication

SUNSHINE TOLDOS

All types of awning and blinds

Installed or fixed Manual/electric Will travel inland No deposit/cash on delivery Call John on 952467783 680323969

PET & HOUSE SITTING

Professional and experienced couple available to look after your pets and property whilst you are away.

Excellent references Tel: 683 337 342 Email: mariposacasa@gmail.com SOTOGRANDE & GIBRALTAR AREAS

the olive press

C lassifieds Advertise here for as little as 40 â‚Ź per issue

AIN AG E D PE SAL OP DR UICK ,000 E 5 Q IC PR FOR â‚Ź 13

COLUMNS

www.theolivepress.es

I

NEVER would have had Spanish Prime Minister down as a fan of rapper Shaggy, but at a PP meeting in Toledo, “It wasn’t me” would have been an appropriate theme tune.

Rajoy recognised that his first year in office had been one of ‘pain and suffering’ but defended his government’s austerity programme by explaining that all the cuts implemented were for the good of the people.

“All of those Spaniards who don’t have jobs and who are going through rough times are always on my mind” (Cue Elvis song) But everything that this government does – everything – is being done

so that they can recover their lives and welfare. No one can say that this government has stood around with its hands in its pockets” Rajoy said that 2013 would be ‘complicated’ (i.e. pretty much of the same and then some) but that he had the economy in hand.

“Each reform is an irreversible step toward the goal of

The Blame Game recovery, our efforts are not falling into a black hole and sooner rather than later they will start to bear fruit” Rajoy also took a seasonal swipe at the Socialist government, laying the blame for the current crisis squarely with former POSE PM Jose Luis

W

E had a power cut one morning this week. I stepped through from the bookshop to the Internet cafe to see how Deirdre was managing. Half a dozen customers looked up from the terminals with the sort of expressions you might expect from people who had been abruptly wrenched from deepest cyberspace.

All except one. She was 30ish, with brown hair and a round face that looked as though it wasn’t entirely unaccustomed to discontent. Her expression was indignant rather than simply surprised.

“I’ve been cut off!” she shouted.

“The power’s stopped,” Deirdre observed calmly (if redundantly).

“Can’t you switch it on again!” the round-faced lady demanded.

“I’m sure it will come on again soon,” I said.

“Who are you?” The woman looked at me as though I were an exotic insect that might have to be swotted away.

“My husband,” Deirdre explained in a cheerful tone and then she added quickly, “As soon as the power comes back the system will restart. I won’t charge you” – she looked around in a genial and inclusive way – “or anyone else for this session.”

The other customers seemed content. Not the round-faced lady, however.

“I was about to send an email and now it’s gone!” she complained. “I’ll have to write it all over again!”

“I’m sorry,” Deirdre soothed. “We don’t often get power-cuts. Was it important?”

“Yes it was important! I just wrote to my husband to tell him we’re splitting up.”

The room became still. To say you could have heard a pin drop would be wholly to under-represent the degree of attention the round-faced lady commanded. If she noticed, she gave no sign.

She was a woman for whom the adjective ‘obtuse’ might have been invented.

“Oh,” Deirdre said. “And you hadn’t pressed ‘send’?”

“I was about to! It took me 20 minutes to write that letter!”

I couldn’t help feeling that 20 minutes wasn’t much in the great marital scheme of things.

“Were you married long?” I asked, instantly aware that my curiosity was rather brash (though I’m quite sure I spoke for everyone).

“What’s it to you!” the woman demanded. And then to herself: “What’s it to him either. He doesn’t care.”

Just then, amid clicks and whirrs and flickerings,

Rodriguez Zapatero, “This has been the main cause of our problems. They left the social services on the verge of collapse. The Socialists will be blamed for the rest of history” One can only presume that Zapatero has now crossed Rajoy off his Christmas card list…

Tales from a bookshop

the electricity returned.

Deirdre hurried round from the counter and switched on each terminal, reaching the roundfaced lady last (by design, I guessed).

“Let’s see if it hasn’t been saved,” she said.

“If it hasn’t, you’re to blame,” the woman remarked sourly.

“Is he in the UK now?” Deirdre asked gently as they waited for hotmail to come back onscreen.

“No, he’s up the road,” the woman said. “We live here.”

“But you’re sending him an…”

“Well I couldn’t tell him to his face. We’d had a tiff.”

Her demeanour softened a little when she said this.

“You walked out?” Deirdre asked.

“Half an hour ago.”

A crack in the voice. She looked more vulnerable and a smidgen less obtuse.

I had placed myself where I could see the roundfaced lady’s screen. I recognised the familiar contours of the Hotmail page.

“Your message might be in ‘drafts’,” Deirdre said.

“Oh!” The woman looked past Deirdre towards the door.

A man entered and walked straight over to the terminal where the fugitive email was being sought.

“Thought you might be here,” he told the roundfaced lady in a low voice. “I’m sorry,” he added with what struck me (and, I believe, everyone else) as heartfelt penitence.

The woman stood up. “Silly sod!” she said, but tenderly.

This exchange was witnessed with general and profound satisfaction.

Deirdre glanced down at the screen and said in an undertone, “I don’t see your message, shall I end the session?”

The woman nodded and the look she gave Deirdre was not obdurate but meaningful, I thought. She scooped up her tissues and purse and allowed her husband to take her arm.

“You’re still not going to charge me, right?” she asked Deirdre, her tone suddenly combative again.

“Right,” Deirdre said.

“Was the message really deleted?” I whispered to Deirdre as the two sparring lovers stepped outside.

“Well it is now,” she said and I returned to the bookshop.

To read more by Michael O’Reilly visit www.myspanishinterlude.com

With Christmas coming up, many of you will be rather partial to a glass of dry JerManzanilla, or perhaps a cream sherry to go with the first mince pies of the festive season.

Over in the US, however, they like to do things a little differently.

A Texas woman escaped being charged with negligent homicide after she killed her husband with a sherry enema.

Tammy Jean Warner had been scheduled to go on trial over the death of her husband, Michael Warner, but the judge ruled there was a lack of evidence.

43

the legal driving limit.

At the time his wife was indicted, police discovered Michael Warner was a long-time alcoholic who sometimes used enemas to get drunk because a medical condition made it painful for him to drink.

Warner claimed her husband had been addicted to enemas since he was a child.

She said he often used alcohol in that manner to get drunk.

A sad case of making a total drunken arse of yourself then…

Fair weather schmoozes

Death by sherry

Michael O’Reilly gets a snap shot of human life when working in his bookshop

EMAIL AGONY

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

YOU DRUNKEN ARSE: Sherry enemas Apparently the dead man had had a “severe alcohol issue” and it was not clear his wife had committed the crime.

“Let’s say I have lung cancer and I continue to smoke. If you provide cigarettes to me, is that negligent homicide?” said the judge.

According to a post mortem report, Mr. Warner had been given an enema containing enough sherry to produce a blood alcohol level six times

In the light of the recent questioning of Max Clifford and the reaction of Marbella’s ‘gliterrati’ on various social media sites (who seem to have had their doubts about the PR Guru, despite being happy to schmooze with him at his events in the town) a fellow media professional came up with the following: The Marbella ‘Celeb’ sexual pest pattern: Step 1 “You’re so cool, you’re brilliant” 2 “I always knew he was dodgy!”

3 “Oh, but he does soooo much for the coast and charity plus 14-year-old girls, well…you know what they can be like” 4 : repeat 1.

44

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es

FOOD & DRINK 45 the olive press - December 23- January 09, 201345 with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

Foie gras fall out

Olive oil scam dropped CRIMINAL charges against a gang alleged to have produced counterfeit olive oil have been dropped by prosecutors.

The year-long investigation by Spanish police, codenamed Operation Lucerna, involved 30 companies and led to the arrest of 19 people in February on charges including tax evasion.

Based in Jaen and Cordoba, the elaborate scam was alleged to have involved the use of cheap oils such as palm and avocado with a view to selling them as olive oil.

But prosecutors have abandoned the case after admitting there is insufficient evidence of a criminal offence having been committed.

While bottles were found with contents that didn’t correspond with the labels, there was no suggestion that they had been offered or advertised for sale.

Top Spanish restaurant fined for using unlicensed producer

DEFENSIVE: Chef Aduriz is not happy

A SPANISH restaurant voted among the world’s best has been fined for using foie gras from an unlicensed producer.

Mugaritz, based near Rent-

Spanish veg shortage ADVERSE weather along Spain’s east coast has led to a shortage of vegetables, producers have warned.

Severe flooding throughout Murcia and Almeria in September and October hampered the planting effort.

Then torrential rain and freezing temperatures in November badly affected the growing process.

The shortage has led to an increase in prices, with broccoli and cauliflower soaring to over €2 per kilo.

Artichoke and iceberg lettuce prices have also risen, according to exporter Verafruta.

eria in the Basque country, received the penalty after being targeted by animal rights protesters.

The restaurant was found to have served foie gras sourced from a smallholder who did not have the correct paperwork.

But chef Andoni Luis Aduriz defended the decision, insisting he was proud to support local producers.

“I am against any unjustified suffering inflicted on any living being, but I am just as much opposed to any obsessive humanisation of animals which tries to wipe out cultures that form part of our social and cultural diversity,” Aduriz said.

“A small administrative sanction is a sacrifice I am prepared to accept in order to defend smallholders, artisans and those people who try to maintain our fragile culinary patrimony.”

FIERCE: Chef Alberto Chicote has turned around Japanese joint Osaka

TV revamp for Ronda restaurant A JAPANESE restaurant in Ronda has featured in the first in the series of Spain’s version of the UK’s Kitchen Nightmares.

Pesadilla en la Cocina features Madrid chef Alberto Chicote entering failing eateries and making radical changes to the way they are run in an attempt to save them from bankruptcy.

Osaka, in Ronda, was struggling due to family problems, with owner Angel unsure how to recreate the success his father had achieved with a Chinese restaurant he ran for years.

Amazingly, the programme shown on LaSexta discovered, Angel learnt how to

make sushi on YouTube and often did not have enough cash to pay his staff.

Chicote soon injected some professionalism into the joint, then changed the restaurant’s name to To-Toro and revamped the menu which now offers JapaneseSpanish fusion cuisine.

Comparison

Chicote has however refused to compare himself to his British counterpart Gordon Ramsay, who hosts the UK version.

“I’m not trying to copy Gordon Ramsay. The programme is the same, but Gordon is Gordon and I am Chicote,” he said.

46

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013

46

FOOD & DRINK www.theolivepress.es with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS!

C

HRISTMAS pudding and turkey with all the trimmings.

When it comes to the festive season, most expats would agree it wouldn’t be the same without these British classics.

Luckily, you don’t have to be in the UK to get your hands

Total of 6,500 Christmas puddings and 1,500 turkeys sold in Morrisons last year on a hearty Christmas dinner, with a number of stores along the Costa del Sol offering a wide range of essentials.

But some of the best deals can be snapped up in Gi-

Christmas deals at Morrisons: T Confectionary tins - Roses, Quality Street, Heroes and Celebrations only £5 T Coca Cola, Fanta, Sprite 2l only 89p T Haywards Pickles 460g only £1 T Oceanspray cranberry sauce 250g only £1 T Walkers 22 pack crisps only £3 T Bisto Gravy granules 170g only £1 T Walkers sensations 150g £1.24 - half price T Hovis Farmers White loaf 800g £1 T Cathedral City Cheddar 350g £2.24 - half price T Champagne Hubert Marie £10

Other Christmas treats to get stuck into: T Christmas Tree Tear & Share Bread £2.29 T Candy Cane Bread £2.00 T M Signature Christmas Tree Smoked Bacon £2.84 - 2 for £5 T Christmas Tree Smoked Salmon £2.84 - 2 for £5 T Panettone Cheesecake £6.60 T Claire Clark’s White Christmas Pudding £4.35 T 3D Robbie Robin Cake £8.00

braltar, home to the busiest branch in the Morrison’s chain.

Between November 6 and Christmas Day last year, the store sold nearly 6,500 Christmas puddings, 1,500 turkeys and a staggering 24,000 packs of mince pies.

“We recognise that families are tightening their belts this year and many have spent the last few months planning the family celebrations,” a Morrisons spokesman told the Olive Press.

“We’re committed to helping our shoppers and one of the things we are doing in Gibraltar is honouring all of our UK prepriced lines.

“This includes lots of our fruit and vegetables, ready meals, fish, pre-packed meat and our home and leisure range as well as many others.”

Here we take a look at some of the deals you can snap up this Christmas.

Sweet success

TURRON looks set to stay strong as a Christmas favourite in Spain, with sales equalling those of last year.

Over 32 tonnes of the famous nougat, first introduced to Spain by the Moors, was produced in 2011 alone.

“From what we are seeing, people are spending in much the same way as last year,” said a spokesman from turron makers association Produlce.

Spain exports the sweet snack mainly to France, Portugal and Andorra with a small demand in the US.

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - December 23- January 09, 2013

47

the FREE

the olive press - December 23 - January 09, 2013 48 Jaw

breaker

A SCHOOL in Alhaurin el Grande has been ordered to pay €47,000 in compensation along with the family of a student who broke another boy’s jaw.

FINAL WORDS

Free art Fuengirola Town Hall has launched a scheme for artists to display their work for free at the Parque de Espana.

olive press

Telephone: 951 16 60 60

We’ve won the Big Night Out!

Green park A new business park which will give priority to businesses in the agricultural, technology and renewable energy sectors will be built in Casarabonela.

British body The body of a British man who had gone missing from his home in Campillos has been found in an irrigation ditch in the town.

Onwards and upwards in 2012 with 186,000 papers www.theolivepress.es (120,000 digital) and around 150,000 visits to the website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!

December 23

- January 09, 2013

49,99 euros

Anyone else want to get off?

www AllAbout Andalucia Propertycom

(brought to you by the OlivePress)

EXCLUSIVE by Frances Leate THE Olive Press is delighted to announce the lucky winners of our New Year’s Eve get-away prize in Mijas.

Nerja residents Trevor and Barbara Mountford (above) will be heading to the TRH hotel to enjoy the special night with gala dinner, cocktails and dancing.

They will also get a lovely room for the night and a slap up breakfast the next day.

When told of the prize, Trevor Mountford, 72, from Cheshire said: “We’re extremely pleased, and so surprised!”

www.theolivepress.es

Sell your property THIS WEEK with an online ad reaching thousands for just

AN expat has described a Ryanair flight as the ‘trip from hell’ after a series of delays which ended in the pilot shouting at passengers to get off the plane.

Andy Coates, 50, who uses the budget airline around 20 times a year, was stunned when the captain came out

Ryanair pilot loses it with passengers after delays over baggage sizes and boarding passes with the ‘rude’ outburst.

It came after the plane was delayed by an hour, in particular, after a passenger boarded the wrong flight.

The problems started when the December 18 flight from Manchester to Malaga was held up after check in staff stopped numerous people

to measure their luggage at the boarding gate.

They included a pensioner, who was forced to put her handbag in her suitcase.

Then to make things worse a passenger who was due to fly to Barcelona accidentally boarded the flight to Malaga.

€250 million get out clause to land Messi!

FOOTBALL clubs around the world have had to wave goodbye to any chance of signing Lionel Messi.

It comes after the Barcelona striker agreed to sign a contract keeping him at the club until 2018, with a staggering get-out-clause of €250 million.

It is the most expensive football contract in history, trumping the €94 million signing of Cristiano Ronaldo for Real Madrid.

Even clubs with the deepest pockets would struggle to find that kind of cash for the 25-year-old star who has scored 90 goals this year.

Messi’s current contract runs until 2016, with the new deal keeping him at the club he has played for since age 13 until he is at least 31 years old.

The agreement is expected to rake in an eye-watering €15 million a year before bonuses for the striker.

“By the time the crew realised the doors were already shut,” said Coates, who lives in Mijas Costa. “In fact we were about to take off when the youngster realised he was on the wrong flight.”

After returning to the terminal to take the passenger off, the captain then said: “If anybody else is not happy then they can get off with him now!”

Outburst

Mr Coates was furious about the outburst and insisted: “This was an innocent mistake by the youngster, but what happened to the gate personnel who are meant to scan boarding cards?

“It didn’t help that they spent so long getting everyone boarded and the way they treated this elderly lady was wrong and she got very nervous.

“It was over the top and pedantic and caused a further delay for everyone.”

He continued: “Maybe if the Ryanair staff were a little less obsessed with the exact size of hand luggage they would notice a far more important fact like a passenger boarding the wrong flight.”

Ryanair were unavailable for comment.

It’s a bug’s life A CADIZ photographer is on a one man mission to give creepy-crawlies a ‘friendlier’ reputation.

Alejandro Ferrer, 33, from San Roque has taken a series of stunning close-ups to illustrate the beauty of our garden crit-

ters.

“Many people hate spiders, but I think they are beautiful creatures,” said Alejandro.

“So I decided to portray them in my pictures in a very friendly way so people would change their minds about how they feel.

“I hope people seeing these images will agree we have to take care of nature.

“Especially smaller helpless animals, as together we form this world,” he added.

No part of this publication may be used or reproduced without the explicit permission of the publisher. While efforts are made to ensure the authenticity of advertisements and articles appearing in The Olive Press, the publisher does not accept any responsibility for claims made, nor do contributors’ opinions necessarily represent his own. Copyright Luke Stewart Media S.L 2012