The Olive Press Issue 171

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Vol. 7 Issue 171

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ess ive Pr ES l O e T th STIGA INVE

BUSINESS AS USUAL EXCLUSIVE

By Alex Iszatt

Costa del Sol, sources reveal that his former call centre in Alhaurin El Grande is up and running again. A similar ‘deck’ is said to be operational

VIDEO NASTY

INVASION OF THE ROCK: By a dozen Spanish schoolchildren. See shocking story on P13

MELANIE C JAZZES UP GIBRALTAR

see page 13

Tel. 951 203 986

October 2 - October 15 2013

Despite being caged for a multimillion fraud, the Olive Press has discovered the empire of Toni Muldoon (left) continues to thrive on the Costa del Sol, with a new lieutenant in charge

THE businesses of a leading Costa conman jailed in a three-year fraud enquiry are still going strong, the Olive Press can reveal.

While Toni Muldoon has finally been caged after two decades of crime on the

MISS GIB: THE NEW PEOPLE’S PRINCESS

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in Fuengirola.

An anonymous source claims staff who manned the desks at Muldoon’s Alhaurin office, are now carrying it on at the business centre down the road.

The unnamed business is allegedly being run by Timeshare Toni’s lieutenant Anthony Bartle.

Gloucestershire-born Bartle has been involved in the timeshare market for many years, it can be revealed.

While he has largely gone under the radar, a now defunct English company, LA Bartle, has been derided for its predatory business practice.

The company charged £600 to help people get back their membership fee, by allegedly finding buyers, revealed antifraud forum Mindtimeshare.

Although hundreds lost out, Bartle was never taken to court and is no longer based in the UK, instead relocating to Benalmadena.

The website, which helps victims of suspected fraud, claims to have found other schemes connected to Bartle.

One such scheme is J.G.Maach, a website that

Also In Gibraltar: UK TV + Free WorldWide Calls + UK & ES Landline

24,95 €/month 951 40 40 05 sales@localtelecom.com

NEW BOSS: Bartle is now in charge of Mijas home and yacht business purports to offer timeshare owners a way to leave their schemes, via an ‘arbitration service’.

But on its own website, it leaves nothing more than a PO Box in Marbella to contact and in one section does not even spell its own company name correctly.

The cost to initiate this arbitration is an eye-watering £1900 paid up front by bank transfer.

Other companies to ‘watch out for’ include ABC Mediation, Baines-Cohen and PH Legal (none of which are related to real firms with similar names).

There is also concern around Bartle’s other businesses, in particular Adult Network Limited, which was struck off

by Companies House in England.

One victim, Raja Khan, claimed he had lost more than £200 when he answered a scam advert from through the website. Khan was prom-

ised regular work, but after the company – Diamond UK – took his money, he never heard from them again.

The Olive Press source is convinced that Bartle’s network is connected to Muldoon, who was convicted in Suffolk in July for running his own dating agency.

In total, Muldoon took fees from escorts and netted him and his associates £5.7m.

The 41-year-old, yacht-loving Bartle, is also coincidentally the administrator of Muldoon’s former Mijas villa, which has been at various times a brothel and a swingers venue.

Originally from Cheltenham, the sports-car loving businessman is the administrator for Eurosur Property Services SL, which acquired the villa from Muldoon’s previous right hand man Bradley Rogers, just months before he too was jailed at Ipswich Crown Court in July.

Turn to page 2

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CRIME NEWS

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

Spain gets Drug sting tough snares expats

Courts clamp down on animal cruelty, corruption and child porn in shake up of justice system

HAUL: 800 kilos of cocaine were found in the Bucanero

from Ronda

UP to 20 people – including a number of expats - have been arrested after trying to smuggle 2,600 kilos of drugs into Spain.

A French businessman, based in Ronda, and an unspecified number of British expats were hauled in after the police seized 800 kilos of cocaine on the ‘Bucanero’ yacht in the Atlantic.

It is understood that the brother of the Frenchman – one of the masterminds of the operation - managed to flee to Venezuela before being arrested.

According to Olive Press sources, the father-of-two spends a few months of the year in South America and

EXCLUSIVE

has a yacht based out of Venezuela.

The hotel owner also has a Moroccan wife and spends much of the year living in Casablanca.

During the raids police seized a second yacht, various weapons, €34,000 and £31,000, including £23,000 Scottish pounds.

The joint operation involving Spanish, Venezuelan and Portuguese authorities targeted the gang shipping hashish into Cadiz, Malaga and the Algarve.

The arrests were the culmination of an investigation lasting several months, but which police have been tracking for three years.

Two Estonians, a Serb and a Spaniard were arrested on the yacht, which is registered in Gibraltar.

Some 16 people appeared in Ronda court last week, 10 of whom have been refused bail.

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TOUGHER sentences are to be handed out for child porn and animal cruelty offences.

Corrupt politicians are also in the firing line, while life sentences will mean life under a raft of new changes to the Spanish justice system.

Increased punishments will also be dished out for crimes ranging from internet piracy (Spain is one of the worst offenders in the world) and for inciting violence.

Justice minister Alberto Ruiz-Gallardón has called the

By Alex Iszatt

new changes ‘absolutely necessary’ and insists they will help improve people’s confidence in the legal system.

Conviction Among the changes listed in the 170-page document is that public officials will face a 12-year prison sentence - if they are convicted of embez-

Tackling the pirates WEBSITE owners could face six years in prison for linking to pirated material.

Those found guilty of profiting from the sale of illegal produced films, television programmes or music could also see their site shut down as Spain looks to tackle online piracy.

The move is the first time Spanish authorities have targeted owners of websites that provide links to illegally distributed copyrighted material.

Previously only those who reproduced or plagiarised the material could be punished.

Spain has been under pressure to tackle online piracy since being added to an international blacklist in 2008.

zling more than €250,000.

Meanwhile, they will face between two and eight years for stealing more than €50,000.

Under a raft of new sentences to tackle the problem of corruption, party officials who fail to adopt measures to control party financing could face one year.

The bill also calls for heavier sentences for people convicted of public disorder, including those who incite violence or organise demonstrations via the internet.

Longer terms will be handed out to those who illegally download from the internet.

And the term for arson has risen from one to six years.

Judges have criticised some of the reforms however, claiming parts of the Criminal Code are too general and vague.

Judges for Democracy say too many actions have been needlessly criminalised, including many types of non-violent protests and demonstrations.

In contrast, they argue some aspects are too lenient, including rules governing offences carrying a maximum prison term of two years or less.

muldoon II From Page 1

Bartle also managed the acquisition of the boat charter company Yachting Perfection Limited from Rogers in 2009.

Last night Bartle (pictured above) admitted he had connections to the pair, but claimed to no longer be involved.

He said: “I took the job after Muldoon and Rogers parted company for a while. I was paid a nominal fee for this appointment but was not required to have an active role in management of the companies.

“Both are now dormant after the boats were seized by the Spanish tax office.”

He insisted he had ‘never operated’ call centres in Spain ‘or anywhere else’, but admitted that a company by the name JG Maach had ‘did possibly use the Alharuin office.”

Bartle claims that he has not had contact with Muldoon for some time, and that the crook’s ex-wife ‘runs his affairs’.

However, an anonymous source insisted last night: “Bartle is now very much in charge.”

Intriguingly, his last farewell to his former boss may have been watching his old friend go down, when he was spotted in the public gallery as Muldoon was sentenced.

Contact Newsdesk@theolivepress.es if you have a story.

NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

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Seminaked intruder

Going the Full Monty?

A GROUP of handsome expats are baring all for an adaptation of The Full Monty.

The celebrated film, directed by Peter Mitchell, is being brought to Fuengirola’s Salon Variety threatre in all its fleshy glory.

The story of six unemployed men in Sheffield, doing anything to make ends meet, was a huge hit in the 90s.

But will the boys go the Full Monty on the coast? There is only one way to find out!

Performances from October 11 to 20. Call the box office on 952 474 542.

VISITORS to a Spanish museum have been greeted by the sight of a halfnaked man.

The exhibit by Bernardi Roig depicts a man with Down syndrome naked from the waist up, trousers unzipped and hands on his face.

The sculpture is one of several to have been strategically placed among the more historic exhibits at the National Museum of Sculpture in Valladolid.

INCLUSIVE: Roig’s art doesn’t quite blend in

Royals come waltzing in!

Pippa Middleton celebrates 30th birthday in Jerez, while Prince Harry joins new squeeze in Sotogrande... with Princess Eugenie tagging along too FLYING first class into Gibraltar, Pippa Middleton – famous for her derriere and her relationship to the throne – headed straight to the cosmopolitan city of Sevilla for a spot of shopping.

But rather than staying in

By Alex Iszatt an obvious five star hotel in the city, she opted for the rather more exclusive hideout, run by expat brothers Anthony and Patrick Reid,

near Jerez.

Cleverly side-stepping the paparazzi, she opted to put up 15 friends – and her mum Carole – at stunning Hacienda de San Rafael, in Cabezas de San Juan.

Celebrating her 30th birth-

Antonio gets animated ANTONIO Banderas is to star in the new Spongebob Squarepants film.

The Spanish actor will be the voice of a pirate in the animation, which is due for release next year.

Malaga’s favourite son is no stranger to being the voice of animated films, having previously starred as Puss in Boots in the Shrek films.

Son of Eldorado BRITISH expats are the inspiration for a brand new Spanish TV series.

The soap, being filmed by Antenna 3 on the Costa Blanca, will feature characters called ‘Margaret’ and ‘Susan’.

But it is not clear whether any British actors will be involved in the production, which will

UNDER THE SEA: Banderes

be aired only in Spanish.

The protagonist Margaret, is a Londoner who inherits a huge house in an inland part of the Alicante region.

After deciding to move to Spain a series of myster- DOOMED: Eldorado ies unravel.

day, she had invited a close coterie of chums, including Prince Harry’s latest squeeze Cressida Bonas.

The group – that also included her banker boyfriend Nico Jackson – watched a flamenco show, while dining in the hotel’s romantic central courtyard.

A long time fan of Spanish culture – her previous boyfriend George Percy lived in Madrid – Pippa also chose a few bottles of her current favourite tipple sherry.

SPANISH STYLE: Pippa in Sevilla “A dry sherry and salted almonds are quite the thing now and not quite as ‘old-generation’ as some think!” she recently wrote in her column for Waitrose magazine.

And, of course, no birthday would be complete without a shopping spree. Pippa, together with mum Carole were seen enjoying a café and stroll around the historic nearby city of Sevilla, armed with shopping bags.

Romantic A few days later Prince Harry joined his girlfriend in a separate Sotogrande hideaway, which he was renting last month.

He chose to fly into Malaga on an Easyjet plane and was later joined for the romantic getaway by Princess Eugenie and her boyfriend Jack Brooksbank.

All you need is love

A SPANISH film, based on Beatlemania in the Franco era, has wowed critics at the San Sebastian film festival.

The movie ‘Living is easy with your eyes closed’ tells the tale of a small-town school teacher who plays the Beatles songs to teach his pupils English.

Directed by David Trueba, it takes inspiration from the Beatles’ visit in 1966.

The real-life story of rebellion in socially and sexually repressed Spain brought applause and laughter during its screening at the San Sebastian Festival.

It won the ‘Special Jury Prize’, but missed out to the coveted Golden Shell award, which was won by Bad Hair, a Venezuelan movie.

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the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

NEWS

4 News IN BRIEF

Green light ESTEPONA Town Hall is investing €25,000 in a new traffic light system to improve safety at 50 zebra crossings.

High flyers Plane spotters from across Europe have spent 11 hours at Malaga airport as part of a tour of Spanish facilities.

Gas grief PLANS to drill for gas off the Andalucian coast have received widespread opposition in Malaga, Granada and Almeria.

Laid to rest A new mausoleum is to be created in Malaga to hold the bodies of 2840 republicans who were shot and buried in mass graves in the San Rafael cemetery in the city. Bones of the deceased were found during the excavation of nine mass graves.

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Expat pride

Community recognises army of volunteers on the Costa del Sol

EXPATS have been recognised for their contribution to life in Spain at an awards ceremony on the Costa del Sol. More than 165 names were put forward by members of the public for 13 gongs at the annual Pride of Marbella awards.

The glitzy awards ceremony, held at Funny Beach, recognised volunteers for their work throughout the community.

Natalie Fantuzzi, who won Volunteer of the Year for her work with animals, said: “I spend about €500 a month just on food, the vet costs come on top.

“I get no help financially which makes me very sad as I do not know how much longer I can keep on doing this.

“The crisis has hit us all, but thanks to events like this it

makes it a little easier to go on fighting for what you believe in.”

Meanwhile Jill Leonard claimed the Community Spirit award after setting up a ‘fire watch’ group in response to last years devastating blaze on the Costa del Sol. “Little did I think that near enough a year to the day, when I set up the group, that I would be tripping the light WINNERS: Natalie (top) and Jill fantastic.

“I can’t tell you how much I com appreciate it, it’s incredible.”

For any donations of time or For a full list of the winners money to Natalie email her at visit: www.prideofmarbella. catsneedhelp761@gmail.com

‘Big Switch off’ draws nearer EXCLUSIVE

British channels are one step nearer from disappearing from southern Spain after new satellite is launched A SATELLITE launch that is expected to lead to the disappearance of UK channels in southern Spain has gone ahead at last.

The Astra 2E satellite was successfully put into space late on Sunday night – two months behind schedule – after a rocket launch from Russia.

The satellite is being introduced to substitute the old Astra 2D satellite that rapid declined in performance after a few years in use.

“We will all have to wait and see what will disappear from our TV screens and when,” explained Mike Crompton of IPTV internet alternative MediaStreamz.

“The BBC has already made an announcement that it will be using the more powerful UK spot beams which means we are very likely to be losing its programmes here...but

LAUNCH: The Astra 2E satellite nothing has been heard yet from the commercial broadcasters.”

Although launched in late 2000, the performance of Astra 2D declined so quickly that a quick fix was required and all channels were transferred to Astra 1N, a satellite intended for the use of German and Spanish channels.

All of the popular British channels were moved from 2D to 1N early last year and reception throughout Spain improved, especially in Gibraltar and the Balearic Islands, with Andalucia also faring well.

However this is now about

to change when 1N will be moved back to its original slot and all British channels will be moved to the new ‘big birds’ called Astra 2E and 2F. Thousands of expats in Andalucia are converned about the moves, after Channel 5 and various ITV channels vanished from their screens in December last year.

“Are the rest soon to go? I really think so,” adds Crompton. “The signs are we will be losing all of the free to air television services we have been enjoying, which will include BBC radio, and that all of this will happen before Christmas.”

NEWS

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the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

Smoothy beware

Conman warning for businesses on Costa del Sol SHOP and restaurant owners have been warned to be aware of a conman operating on the Costa del Sol. The well-dressed man, who is thought to be Spanish, has been using a clever ruse in an effort to con businesses in Mijas.

The warning comes from Jason Godwin, the owner of the chocolate shop, the Mayan Monkey Mijas, after he narrowly avoided falling victim to the trickster.

EXCLUSIVE

By Giles Brown The dark-skinned man came into the shop and asked to speak ‘urgently’ with the boss, who was out on business.

“So next thing I have received a phone call from him and he spoke to me as if he was my best mate,” said Godwin.

He said he was the son of one of his neighbours Carmen, who worked in the town hall

FUNDS FOR TOMAS AN eight-year-old disabled boy who needs specialist care is to benefit from a charity fundraiser on the Costa del Sol. Tomas Leighton was born blind and also suffers from Cerebral Palsy and a severe form of epilepsy.

The event is being hosted by El Potro restaurant in Mijas Costa at 1.30pm on October 5. Entertainment will include live music, a BBQ and cocktails.

There will also be an auction of rare Coronation Street memorabilia, as Samia Ghadi, who plays Maria Connor, is the charity’s patron.

Entrance is €5 and includes two raffle tickets.

Rail bosses summoned TOP officials from a Spanish rail operator have been ordered to appear before the judge investigating the Santiago train crash in which 78 people died.

Board members, senior managers and the three most recent presidents of Adif are all being treated as suspects in the case.

Judge Luis Alaez must determine whether the high-speed crash, one of the worst in Spain’s history, could have been prevented by the firm.

and often visited his shop.

“I really wanted to place this guy and was feeling a little stupid that I couldn’t remember him.

“I also didn’t want to be rude to a client so I asked him how I could help,” he added.

Godwin was then told that ‘David’ had a problem with his car and that he needed to borrow €30 or his car would be towed away.

He added that his mum had suggested that Godwin might be able to help.

“The guy was good,” continued Godwin. “He was using pressure, speed and familiarity, but I realised he was a scammer and told him that I wasn’t going to give him a penny and hung up.”

But the trickster fooled staff in the shop into thinking he was still on the phone and pretended to end the call with the words: ‘Thank you Jason, I’ll tell them’.

He then informed the staff that Godwin had authorised them to hand over €30.

Fortunately Godwin was able to call one of the staff on another line and warn them not to hand over any money.

When the conman realised he had been thwarted he quickly disappeared.

Godwin added: “I think that conmen are getting much more creative as the crisis deepens, so be careful!”

News IN BRIEF

Dangerous boars A 24-year-old man has been killed and his four passengers seriously injured after swerving to avoid wild boars on the A-52.

Price slump Inditex’s Spanish sales have fallen 4.4% over the past year due to increased competition from retail rival H&M.

Jelly good A mobile application warning beachgoers about the presence of jellyfish on 107 beaches along the Costa del Sol has been downloaded 4,400 times.

Wage scam

CLOSE SHAVE: Jason at the shop with wife

The mayor of Jaen has admitted he collected extra wages from the PP for seven years. Jose Enrique Fernandez de Moya admitted he and the other PP councillors received additional cash between ‘99 and 2007.

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FEATURE

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

www.theolivepress.es

OPINION Doing our job Journalists often get a bad rap, being thought of as intrusive, annoying and heartless.

But almost inevitably it is the people, who have something to hide, who are most outspoken about our profession.

Innocent victims are often scared to report things to us, in case of retribution.

It is often a tricky and thankless task trying to help them and you to get their stories out to warn others.

So, why do we continue?

To get the truth out there – conmen and fraudsters will always try and take money from innocent victims.

And as the police and government can’t always (and don’t always want) to help them – we give them a voice.

Without our sources – and brave people coming forward - we would never have discovered that ‘Timeshare Toni’ is back to his old tricks, playing puppet master from his prison cell.

Thankfully we can warn people to watch out for his protege Anthony Bartle.

That is our main function and we vow to continue to fight for the underdog and those who have been conned – and always aim to get both sides to every story.

What's the alternative?

AROUND 1,500 people were expected to show at the anti-royal protest last weekend in Madrid, yet only a handful turned up.

Protesters are blaming the weather for the poor show, but that excuse rings hollow when the streets were packed full in April for similar protests.

Could it be that instead of being so adamantly against the royals, the Spanish are realizing that it is , in fact, their leaders – voted by the people – that are the ones causing the problems?

A luxury safari, which King Carlos was slated for, seems nothing in comparison to the Barcenas slush-fund case, the € 2 billion ERE scandal, or the Malaya money laundering trial.

In this day and age, voting for someone else as head of state in Spain would be akin to asking which criminal’s rap sheet looks the cleanest.

Happy returns This issue the Olive Press has gone inland and scoured every nook and cranny of the Serrania de Ronda for you.

In a wonderful 20-page supplement we offer you plenty of food for thought for a trip into this wonderful region this autumn or winter.

Whether it is for a cycling trip, a visit to a Medieval village or just a splendid food and wine weekend, we have plenty of ideas.

There’s so much to see and do, both en route and at your final destination – one of Spain’s most evocative towns; surely the whole point of leaving the homeland is to see the real side of your host country?

Well get out there. Ronda has it all; it’s steeped in history, surrounded by spectacular scenery, and full of authentic Spanish atmosphere.

The Olive Press set up in this magical region nearly eight years ago.

While nowadays we are firmly based on the coast, where we can better service the majority of our clients, we still have a very soft spot for the area.

Got a news story?

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

the

The original and only English-language investigative newspaper in Andalucía

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Tel: 951127006 (admin/editorial/sales/advertising) or admin@theolivepress.es

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

Luke Stewart Media S.L - CIF: B91664029 Urb Casares del Sol, bloque 21, portal 70, bajo b, Casares 29690, Malaga Printed by Corporación de Medios de Andalucía S.A. Editor: Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es Reporters: Newsdesk Newsdesk@theolivepress.es Alex Iszatt Alex@theolivepress.es Claire Wilson Claire@theolivepress.es

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ENS of thousands of Britons come to retire in the sun each year. And the number could have even doubled over the last two years despite a growing number of negative stories in the UK press about Spain.

Either way, the huge number of aging Britons (and Dutch and Germans, etc) choosing Spain over a rainy UK is putting a growing strain on the Spanish health service.

And it is perhaps unsurprising that the authorities here are demanding the UK pays for its citizens care, and in some places Spanish doctors are refusing to treat anyone who cannot speak Spanish without an interpreter present.

The language barrier is understandably being seen as a serious medical risk.

While the NHS spent £26m on translators last year, and readily has material available in 120 languages, Spain has not put aside the funds for such luxuries.

In Spanish hospitals, while many doctors speak English, the majority of the hospital staff don’t and the onus on translation is put on the patient.

As one doctor, Diego Vargos, a spokesman for the Spanish Society of General Medicine, admits: “It makes diagnosis difficult even doubling consultation time - and can give rise to serious misunderstandings and errors, for which the doctor will be held responsible.”

Research by the society shows that fewer than 10% of expats can communicate with staff, with almost a third relying on hand gestures and phrase books.

Brian, 68, an ex-serviceman who came to Spain from Southampton 10 years ago, was faced with this issue when he visited the hospital for treatment on an ulcerated foot.

“I couldn’t speak the language and I couldn’t tell whether the interpreter gave all my symptoms correctly – I felt lost,” he told the Olive Press.

It was the same for Judith, an elderly Dutch woman who the Olive Press reported on two issues ago, who arrived in Spain 17 years

Care in the community

Getting older can be a confusing time, not speaking the local language and often being away from ones family.

After reporting on the case of an elderly Dutch woman last month, the Olive Press looks at elderly care in Spain, where incredibly just 1% of home care services are funded by the government

daycare centres for the elderly.

Many, like Judith, end up going back to their native country. ago, but never learnt the language.

The tradition for most nationals is to take When the 83-year-old, from Mijas, suffered care of their own elderly at home, with help a fall this year, there were no English-speak- from family and friends. ing doctors or staff. And she was swiftly Incredibly, just 1% of Spain’s elderly receive moved from a hospital bed to a care home home care services funded by the governwithout any consideration for her needs, ment. while the authorities were soon investigat- This has led to developers noticing a gap in ing her living conditions and investigating the market to take advantage of expats who her friends, who had been looking after her. decide to stay, by offering them retirement It was a harrowing ordeal which made her complexes and care homes. feel alone. The situation led to even big- According to the Junta, there are now 76 ger problems for care homes registered in Andalucia alone. her group of friends, It is estimated that dozens more exist – opdubbed a commune, erating illegally. and described as For those who have become Spanish resi‘hippies’ running an dents, by law thet are entitled to ‘health illegal care home, protection’. a charge they com- The General Health Law of 1986, which saw pletely deny. (See the creation of the National Health System, panel below) also states that access to health services is They are anything a citizen’s right. but alone. And thou- However in the Spanish Civil Code, it is also sands of others liv- stated that the spouse and children of eling in Spain have the derly dependents are responsible for their problem of what to maintenance and care. do as they get older.

This covers essentials such as food, shelter, And here lies the problem. clothing and medical assistance.

Because Spain is new to the concept of care And ultimately the main criterion of the social homes, there are very few social services or service network is to keep the elderly in their own environment for as long as possible.

It is a noble intention and works for most local Spanish families.

But for the expats, away SINCE the Olive Press investigated the sad case of the elderly Dutch from their friends and commune in Mijas, the town hall has continued to insist that the family and traditional group dismantles its home. support system it is a difDespite initially claiming the commune was an ‘illegal care home’, it ferent story.... and often a now claims it is the buildings that are not legal. costly one.

It has served a notice to either tear them down or receive a bill for The advice for anyone who over €60,000 for the council to tear them down. is seeing out their twilight While the group admits some of the buildings are new, they have years in Spain is to seek as been standing for the past five years without complaint. much information as posA huge bus, which the commune drove from Holland to Spain, now sible before making the resides at the back of the property. Weeds entangle the wheels and final decision. the once happy traveling vehicle is now home to various bits and Further information can pieces – but harming no one. be found through www.

The town hall sees this as a violation and has demanded that it gov.uk. must be removed.

Here, the Olive Press The bus cannot be driven out, as the property was built after it was takes a look at different parked – so the pensioners must take it apart, bolt by bolt or face a types of healthcare in charge of nearly €12,000.

Spain:

By Alex Iszatt

The language barrier is being seen as a serious medical risk by some doctors who won’t treat foreigners

UPDATE: What is going on at the commune?

FEATURE

www.theolivepress.es

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OUTING THE TRUTH: The Olive Press exposed the story behind the lies (left) while (above) care does not come cheap in Spain

HOME CARE

RESIDENTIAL CARE

Home care services are A number of residential free for those on a minihomes offer a range of care mum pension. services and if you go private However, pensioners who expect to pay anything from have income twice as high €1,700 to €3,500 per month. as the minimum pension Most have fully-qualified medmust pay for the servicical staff and can help with es, with a sliding scale of physiotherapy, speech theracharges for those in-bepy and social work. tween.

Those who need assisted livHome care services include ing facilities can also have primary care social servictheir own kitchen facilities, es, social work, assistance laundry and do their own with household tasks, cleaning, with staff on hand meals-on-wheels and teleto help if needed. alarm services.

Some homes provide social However, activities such these seras outings, as vices are only well as activiPrivate home fees available in to help reare out of the reach ties various placcovery such as es around the of most Spanish el- swimming and country. derly as the average gardening.

Meals-onThose who monthly pension is are prepared wheels, for example, is to wait for €700. only availa place at a able in Malstate-funded aga and Corcare home doba in Andalucia. will need to pay the equivaTele-assistance and telelent of 80% of their pension alarm services are offered to cover the costs. in at least 10 of the autonoPrivate home fees are out of mous communities, while a the reach of most Spanish elservice which helps adapt derly as the average monthly homes to the needs of a depension is around €700. pendent person is available Spanish nationals are often in Andalucia and Valencia. given priority for places at

state run establishments.

As a result many expats are forced to opt for what is called a ‘reverse mortgage’.

This allows people to release equity in their own home to pay for the cost of an assisted living place. The bank will normally lend out 80% of the

value of the property.

Alternatively, home owners are trying a ‘renta vitalica’ in which the owner effectively hands over ownership of their home to the bank in return for residential care payments until death or for as long as they need them.

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

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www.theolivepress.es

www.theolivepress.es Writer claims he downloaded images to ‘flush out’ someone trying to smear him

NEWS

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It was deliberate PARANOID Mike Souter kept indecent images of children on his computer in a bid to ‘flush out’ those attempting to smear his name, a court has heard.

In a statement read to Norwich Crown Court, the Cos-

Torture tracks THE songs of Julio Iglesias were used to torture prisoners under General Pinochet’s Chilean dictatorship, it has been revealed.

Hits including Starry Night and El Amor were included on a special ‘torture soundtrack’, which also featured songs by The Beatles’ George Harrison, according to researchers at Manchester University.

The tracks would be played at intensely high volumes for days on end, with the otherwise popular songs being used to inflict psychological and physical damage on prisoners.

UN probes disappearances UN officials have visited Spain to determine what action is being taken to investigate disappearances during the Franco regime.

The group met with government officials as well as lawyers and the relatives of those who disappeared, in

Madrid and Andalucia.

It is hoped the visit will lead to greater dialogue between the government and victims groups in an effort to fully investigate each case.

A final report on the visit will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council next year.

ta-based broadcaster said he had deliberately placed incriminating files on his computer in order to bring to a head a police investigation that had been launched against him a decade ago.

He also claimed that someone had been accessing his computer, email address and chat accounts.

The former Sur in English travel writer (pictured with actor Val Kilmer) faces 19 counts of sex abuse against seven boys, and nine counts of keeping indecent images of children on his computer.

He denies all charges.

Hypnotherapy

Earlier in the week an alleged victim told the court he had sought hypnotherapy after being so traumatized by the abuse he had endured at the hands of the broadcaster.

Souter has since taken to the witness stand for the first time, stating he was considered an ‘action man’ when he first joined BBC Radio Norfolk.

When probed by defense lawyer Andrew Hill he told the court he took advantage of all perks that came his way during his time as a presenter at the local radio station.

The trial continues.

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NEWS

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

Footage fool

SPAIN’S prime minister has failed in an effort to have footage deleted which shows him being grilled about the Barcenas corruption scandal.

Mariano Rajoy was pressed about his role in the case during an interview with Bloomberg.

The PP leader was quizzed about two hard drives that went missing from computers used by Barcenas at the party’s headquarters.

He said most of the things that have been said about him and his colleagues since the emergence of the scandal had been untrue.

In a response reminiscent of his initial reaction to the allegations, Rajoy said: “There are things that cannot be shown and so it doesn’t make any sense to say you can show this or you can’t, because there was no illegal financing.”

Spanish officials attempted to have the questions cut from the interview but producers refused on the grounds of journalistic integrity.

www.theolivepress.es

Justice at last?

IT is the biggest trial ever seen in Andalucia.

But how many of the 94 people tried in the huge Malaya corruption trial will actually be sent to jail?

This is the question as Judge Jose Godino prepares to give his final verdicts this week in

By Alex Iszatt

the case that centres around the laundering of €2.4 billion via Marbella Town Hall.

It has taken the judge – and others before him – almost a decade to get to this stage.

After five years of investigation

But how many will be imprisoned when Malaya corruption trial verdict is finally delivered this week

and 200,000 pages of charges, the trial began in 2010.

This Friday will see its culmination and the possibility of seeing two ex-mayors of the town sent to prison.

Those on trial include former mayors Julian Munoz and Marisol Yague, former chief of Marbella police Rafael del Pozo and town hall planning supremo Juan Antonio Roca.

The crackdown saw almost two-thirds of Marbella’s councillors pulled in, as well

as a series of well-known construction and real estate bosses, including Tomas Olivo and Jose Avila Rojas.

The scale of the corruption proved so pervasive that control of Marbella Town Hall had to be temporarily handed over to a caretaker administration appointed by the Junta until local elections could take place in 2007.

So big was the case that a completely new court had to be built to house the hear-

ing.

Three years and nearly 200 court sessions later, the trial is finally coming to a climax.

Judge Godino who has spent the summer deliberating over the verdict, will finally read out the sentences to those accused on October 4.

Of the 94 originally accused, only nine charges have so far been acquitted and two are already in prison – ringleader Juan Antonio Roca and former mayor Munoz.

The big players

ON TRIAL: Developer Jose Avila Rojas arrives at court

Julian Muñoz

Juan Antonio Roca Born in Murcia, Roca moved to Marbella in 1991 after his property development company Comarsa was declared bankrupt. He became the councillor for urban planning for 11 years from 1992 to 2003 and amassed a fortune, worth at least €125 million, that included a string of properties, a huge collection of exotic animals and a private art portfolio that included a Miro that he kept in the loo. Currently serving six years for a previous crime, he is facing another 30 years in prison, and the possibility of an €810m fine.

Marisol Yague A former singer, Yague was appointed mayor by Roca following a vote of no confidence against Muñoz in 2003. According to investigators she was Roca’s puppet, visiting him at his offices on Mondays to receive instructions and allegedly taking €1.8m in bribes.

A former waiter from Avila, Muñoz – nicknamed ‘Cachuli’ or ‘chancer’ – successfully rose from nothing to become the mayor of Marbella in little more than a decade. As the boyfriend of the famous singer Isabel Pantoja, his face has frequently appeared in gossip magazines throughout Spain. During his short term of office he publicly fell out with Roca who had him ousted as mayor. And he has now spent more than two years in prison and faces 10 more on charges of perverting the course of justice, embezzlement and bribery.

Isabel Garcia Marcos Rafael Gomez Sanchez Owner of developer Arenal 2000, Sandokan is one of the many builders involved in the case. He made alleged payments of up to €600,000 in exchange for ‘urban favours’. He was also Roca’s partner in the company, Marbella Airways.

The former deputy mayor, García Marcos was ironically a one-time socialist councillor and ferocious critic of corruption in Marbella.

She eventually became one of Roca’s favourite councillors however and was caught saying “I don’t sign a piece of paper, or even read one, if I don’t get money”. Police found €360,000 at her home when she was arrested in 2003.

Isabel Pantoja Famous singer and exgirlfriend of Julián Muñoz, Pantoja is being charged in a separate case and faces a €3.7m fine and three years in prison, for helping Muñoz launder the money he received in bribes. The star is also accused of obtaining large sums of money during her relationship with the former mayor.

www.theolivepress.es

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GIBRALTAR NEWS

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GIBRALTAR NEWS

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Spain denies that it is linking up with Argentina over Gibraltar and the Falklands

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United Front?

SPAIN’S foreign minister has denied Argentinean claims that an agreement has been reached between the two countries over action against

By Giles Brown

the UK. It follows a meeting between Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo

and his Argentine counterpart Héctor Timerman at the UN General Assembly in New York.

The pair are understood to

have discussed both Gibraltar and the Falklands, although Margallo described the supposed agreement as ‘a bad interpretation’ of what was

Video Nasty!

discussed.

Instead Margallo insisted that Spain will support Argentina over the Falklands, while hoping that the favour will be returned during the discussion over Gibraltar.

Margallo recently stated that ‘the similarities (between Gibraltar and the Falklands) are enormous’ and insisted both were in need of ‘decolonisation’.

Reasons

MEETING: Hammond and Picardo

In a continuing series of high level meetings between Gibraltar and the UK, British Defence Minister Philip Hammond MP has met with the Rock’s Chief Minister Fabian Picardo.

The exact reasons for the meeting were not released to the press.

People’s Princess Schoolchildren write play about a Spanish takeover of Gibraltar

OUTRAGE: Scenes from the video show a tank arriving proclaiming Gibraltar Spanish and (top) Gibraltarians being massacred

A SCHOOL play depicting the execution of Gibraltarians has caused widespread outrage.

School children wearing camouflage jackets and carrying fake guns can be seen ‘shooting’ three Gibraltarians in a video posted on YouTube.

The victims are seen lounging in deck chairs below a Union Jack flag prior to being executed with their hands above their heads.

The play, filmed at a school in Alfajarin near Zaragoza, also features a mock-up tank and a sign saying ‘Gibraltar Español’.

Many of the adults in the audience can be seen laughing following the shooting scene.

“We are appalled, saddened and dismayed by this video,” said a Gibraltar government spokesman.

“This is the product of eight weeks of unrelenting anti-Gibraltar propaganda.”

A Foreign Office spokesman also condemned the footage.

“This is in very poor taste, especially as children were involved in acting out violence,” he said.

Visit www.theolivepress.es to see the video on full.

Gib job losses

A BRITISH bank has warned there could be job losses at its branch in Gibraltar.

Barclays runs an office on the Rock focusing on its wealth management services.

But this is an area of the bank’s operations which will be cut by more than 50% worldwide by 2016.

The cuts are being made in an effort to help Barclays focus on what it has identified as 70 key markets.

GIBRALTAR’S entry in the Miss World contest has won a special award.

While she did not win the competition, the Rock’s entry Maroua Kharbouch was handed the ‘People’s Choice Award’ at a glittering ceremony in Jakarta.

Kharbouch, who qualified for the prestigious contest after being crowned Miss Gibraltar also made it to the final 10 of Miss World.

It was won by the entry from the Philippines.

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Gib IN BRIEF

UN treat

SIX students from Gibraltar will attend the United Nations in New York this month after winning an essay writing competition.

Prison puffing The Gibraltar government will give ‘careful consideration’ to implementing a smoking ban in HM Windmill Hill Prison, following similar action in the UK.

Hospital help

Improvements to St Bernard’s Hospital will take place in the next few weeks following consultations with community groups.

GIBRALTAR NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

Exotic stamp of approval

A NEW set of stamps featuring endangered animals has been issued in Gibraltar.

The series includes the Asiatic cheetah, Atlantic bluefin tuna and the leatherback sea turtle.

The illustrations were created by UK-based wildlife artist Jonathan Pointer after being commissioned by Gibraltar government.

Other animals to appear on the stamps are the African penguin, Chinese alligator and the redcrowned crane.

More border misery ON the Rock

Olive Press guide to the best of What’s On in Gibraltar over the next two weeks October 2-4 Avatar – The Dance Production, 8.30pm John Mackintosh Hall Theatre. Organised by the Show Dance Company, Tickets £12 October 4 Think Pink Day Organised by the Cancer Research Gibraltar Branch For further info please contact Giovi Viñales on email: gv@europort-gibraltar.com October 4- 5 Tribute to Pink Floyd , 8.30pm Inces Hall Theatre. Organised by J2 Productions

For f information call 54025517 or email: jaycallejon@gmail.com October 5 11am Cancer Research Walk for Life, 9.30am Casemates Square. Organised by the Cancer Research Gibraltar Branch For further info email: gv@europort-gibraltar. com October 6 Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association, 11am2pm Casemates Square

Increase in frontier checks less than 24 hours after EU factfinders leave the enclave THE Spanish authorities have stepped up their searches of vehicles on the Gibraltar border, less than 24 hours after a high-ranking visit by the European Commission (EC) to investigate the issue.

The action brought misery to thousands trying to get home on Friday evening, and many turned to social media to vent their frustrations.

‘Stuck in Gibraltar again They are making every car park at the border, opening up each boot and bonnet and searching - when there are a few thousand cars waiting,’ read one. ‘It is a total joke’.

The sudden go-slow led to

some people spending up to four hours in the queues, it was reported.

The EC visit followed complaints made by the Government of Gibraltar and MEPs at the end of July.

The Commission delegation was accompanied by the deputy chief minister and senior officials to view the vehicular, pedestrian and commercial entry and exit points of the frontier from the Gibraltar side.

At the time of the visit there was a two-hour queue of vehicles trying to enter the territory.

After the visit Gibraltar’s

Conservative MEPs called on the EC to make an ‘early and crystal clear’ public statement on the findings of the factfinding mission.

In a joint statement they vowed: ‘We will not let the issue be kicked into the long grass.’

They said it was ‘vitally important’ to the people of Gibraltar and raised ‘extremely serious’ questions about freedom of movement and trade.

www.theolivepress.es

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AXARQUIA NEWS

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News IN BRIEF

Animal award AXARQUIA Animal Rescue has won the Pride of Marbella award for its work helping abandoned and abused animals.

No sizzle This summer was Andalucia’s coldest for six years, with an average temperature almost 2C lower than last year.

Avo’ pride Avocados from the Axarquia have the best flavour and are the most suitable for export, according to a US body.

Crash dummy A man has been arrested after crashing a stolen car, injuring a child and two adults, in Rincon de la Victoria.

Get buzzy

EVER fancied yourself as a beekeeper?

Well now’s your chance with three sets of hives currently up for auction.

The plots, known as apiaries, come with a three-year lease.

Owners must allow access to the environment ministry to conduct beekeeping studies.

For more information, contact Nerja Town Hall.

Contemporary art centre opens in Velez Malaga A €3 million contemporary arts centre has opened in Velez-Malaga.

The space includes seven exhibition halls, five of which will house permanent displays.

It is the first of its kind to open in the region outside of Malaga city.

The first exhibition features the work of Hernandez Diaz, dubbed the region’s ‘adopted son’.

Diaz, who died last year, was born in the Spanish enclave of Melilla but made his name as a contemporary artist in El Trapiche.

Globetrotting trams could come home Controversial €40 million line could reopen

A CONTROVERSIAL tramline which was forced to close due to massive financial losses could be set to reopen.

The Junta is taking bids from potential operators for the route between VelezMalaga and Torre del Mar. The move comes after the scheme was scrapped last year having been in operation for just six years.

Star attraction CHANNEL 4 show A Place in the Sun is currently being filmed in Nerja.

The popular TV programme helps British couples find their dream Spanish home.

Filming runs until October 4 and it is hoped the episode will help promote the Axarquia.

Street art heroes

GRAFFITI artists will have the chance to show off their skills at a contest in Nerja this month.

The event is part of the Nerja Crea + programme, organised by the youth department.

First prize is €150, with the winners having their work displayed in public.

Competitors can submit up to three sketches on the theme of television and video game heroes by October 22.

Entries must be on A3 paper and should not feature anything obscene or racist.

Doggy decision

Shell shock

DOG owners are set to benefit from the use of a purpose built park, under new proposals being put forward by Torre del Mar town hall.

The plan, involving a 3,000 sq metre plot in the town, is seen as necessary due to a recent rise in dog numbers.

A final decision is set to be made following a consultation period which ends later this year.

For more information visit www.nerja.es.

A LETHAL mortar shell has been discovered on a popular family beach in Torrox.

The weapon was later diffused by bomb disposal experts.

The deadly shells were used

by Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War. Anyone who makes a similar discovery should call the Guardia Civil immediately on 062.

The regional government invested €40 million in the project but failed to recoup the money.

Efforts to reduce ticket prices and subsidise the route failed and the trams were subsequently packed off to Australia.

The cars have since been rented to authorities in Sydney at a cost of €200,000 a year.

The line, which was little used, was praised for being a green alternative to transport needs in the Axarquia.

Axarquia anarchy?

DRUGS, sex and violence were conspicuous by their absence this summer in Nerja.

The most serious incidents involved fractured bones and burnt skin.

In total, 183 injuries were reported, according to Nerja town hall.

The biggest hazards were heat stroke and jellyfish stings, while 10 people had to be rescued from the water.

GREEN NEWS

www.theolivepress.es

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Wireless wanderers

XXXXXXXXXx NO CHARGE: Bus can go for miles

PIONEERING: The PS10 Solar power plant in Sevilla

Triple-A for sustainability SPAIN is one of just five countries in the world to have achieved a top rating for its energy sustainability.

The World Energy Council (WEC) praised the country’s transition to more sustainable energy systems, awarding it a tripleA score in its new sustainable energy scorecard system - unveiled this week.

The only other countries to have been awarded a triple-A rating are the UK, Switzerland, Denmark, and Sweden.

The scorecard system

Spain is one of only five countries given a top rating for its energy use

By Claire Wilson rates a country according to how it handles the three conflicting objectives of what the WEC has called the ‘Energy Trilemma’ – energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability.

Spain and the other tripleA rated countries were deemed to have the best bal-

ance between the three issues.

The WEC said these countries were the only ones to have historically demonstrated their ability to manage the trade-offs between the three competing dimensions equally.

The scorecard system was developed as part of the WEC´s World Energy Trilemma Report, which looked at each country´s investment in sustainable energy, and the global at-

A BOOST FOR RESOURCES

A SERIES of hiking trails and new green spaces are being introduced in a bid to make Benalmadena more attractive to tourists all year round.

It is hoped the project will reduce the municipality’s dependence on seasonal tourism.

“We are working on enhancing Benalmadena’s attractive environment, in order to make it a unique alternative leisure and outdoor space on the Costa del Sol, which breaks with the seasonality of sun and beach,” said councillor Adolfo Fernández.

Clean up day for Benal beaches

CLEAN UP: Benalmadena’s beaches are sparkling

V O L U N TEERS have helped to clear 150 kilos of rubbish from one of Benalmadena’s beaches (left).

Over 50 people took part in Beach Cleaning Day, organised by the Junta.

titude towards the transition to a more tenable system of energy production.

A GREEN wireless charging scheme is being trialled on electric buses in Malaga.

The technology will allow the vehicles to travel a 5km route, twice as far as previously.

The €3.7million project is the first of its kind in Spain and will enable the buses to be charged on the move.

It is hoped the system will be used more widely from next year.

RESEARCHERS at Alicante University have designed an environmentallyfriendly heating and cooling system.

The device uses ceramic panels that can be fixed to the walls or ceilings of homes or offices. Capillary tubes are fixed to the back of these panels, through which hot or cold water can be passed to heat or cool the room.

Green control

The new system, described as ‘simple, sustainable and energy efficient’, is the first to use ceramic tiles.

The fabrics used in the system - ceramic and polypropylene makes it suitable for use in sustainable constructions.

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POTTED POINTERS ANDALUCIA RESERVOIR LEVELS This week: 80.65% full Same week last year: 55.35% Same week in 2003: 49.37% 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 1.33 American Dollars 0.84 British Pounds 1.38 Canadian Dollars 7.46 Danish Kroner 10.35 H Kong Dollars 8.04 Norwegian Kroner 1.69 Singapore Dollars

LETTERS

www.theolivepress.es

Probe ‘political’ crooks...

HELP FOR POACHERS

Dear Olive Press THE Spanish taxman should be investigating the large number of crooks who shelter behind the name ‘politician’ throughout Spain. But then the taxman probably needs investigating himself! The Rajoy gang is making a very good job of destroying any remaining international confidence in Spain as a democratic country worthy of investment.

Any new bailout by the EU should be after an EU Commission has been set up to investigate corruption, with the power to sack and replace these crooks found in office.

William Spencer, Sevilla

Jellyfish alert I am Australian and lived for many years in North Queensland, home of the box jellyfish.

It is without doubt one of the most dangerous species in the world, and you can’t swim off beaches without special netting for protection - if you are stung on

THE bird-like drone which I read about in your last issue has in my view great potential in anti-poaching work in East

and South Africa.

I am going to approach the company to see if I can pass its name on to the relevant people in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa who might be interested in looking at the product.

Both national and private game parks are regularly targeted by poachers of rhino and elephants, and having something like this, depending of course on its range and other capabilities, would be a boon to the park owners.

Nils Lundgren, Axarquia

your torso you die within minutes.

I have seen people who have touched a tentacle with their fingers and have been raced to hospital. As far as I have read 60 people have died in 100 years.

Worringly, an article last issue infers it is here in the Med and even as I read it I went into a panic. After all, if it was here all beaches would be closed and nobody would be able to swim Jan Platter, Torre del Mar ED: Yes, correct it has only killed 60 people in 100 years not this year so far... and, of course, it is not actually off our coast’s, as far as we know, that is.

Think logically The Spanish YouTube video of a class of students in north Spain emulating the invastion if Gibraltar is irking me. Everyone needs to

The air is wonderful for my health, but, it is freezing cold in the winter as I live near the Sierra Nevada ski slopes.

I need to keep my apartment warm, otherwise it negates the clear air essential for my chest.

Heat is really necessary for my health, but my UK pension only goes so far. It’s not much, and I cannot afford the heat I need.

Without the winter fuel allowance that will soon be cancelled I will be in big trouble.

I hope the current petition to the UK government is successful, as I know many other OAPS are in the same situation.

take a step back and stop having knee-jerk reactions.

This was a play. What was the context of it? For all we know, the teacher (or pupils) decided to push the boundaries of what is considered decent and that is what art does all the time, either in the mainsteam or not. The students are giggling – they know that they are pushing boundaries and loving every moment of it.

They are pushing your buttons and finding a voice at the same time. Perhaps some of these young adults are the Taranatino’s of the future? So stop being morally outraged and see it for what it is. After all, Tarrantino isn’t likely to pick up a gun and start shooting people despite what his movies portray.

of one on Spanish TV a few years ago and, despite enjoying the initial pomp and colour, I found the actual bullfight barbaric and cruel.

I would love to see bullfighting banned in Spain but I wouldn’t boycott a country that I’ve grown to love over the years.

There are good and bad things about almost every country in the world. Spain is not the only place that has child and animal cruelty still happening.

Spain is a country of contrasts and it’s a shame that lots of expat Brits don’t integrate more into the culture and history and don’t take part in the life of their adopted country.

CJ, Torremolinos

Charity help

No boycott

In your last paper you noted a price of €150 for cat spaying. Unless the prices have rocketed in the last six months this is not true of all vets.

I live in Alhaurin and was quoted, by three local vets around €110 to castrate a largish dog. My cat only cost me €35.

I actually used the charity Chain, based in La Trocha shopping centre in Coin and only paid €55 for my dog to be castrated and again for my little bitch to be spayed.

It does not have to be that expensive and that many charities will help those in financial difficulties.

Please do get your animals neutered to avoid all these unwanted kittens and puppies with which we are swamped.

Dear OP, I read with interest your article concerning Brian’s Rentacar and the adverse comments regarding Mr Ballard’s service and operational activities.

Both I and my son have hired vehicles on many occasions from David Ballard and have only ever been shown kindness and courtesy. Particularly to me because my wife is handicapped.

My experience and subsequent advice with car hire throughout the world is always the same... ‘read the contract’.

Unfortunately, the majority of people neglect to do this and when a problem occurs do not accept their responsibilities and complain.

This is not Avis or Hertz we are talking about but a small business with 30 to 40 cars offering very economical terms.

You have said that your newspaper gave Mr Ballard every opportunity to respond to the allegations published. He claims ‘the first contact I had from the Olive Press was the day before publication”.

Mr Ballard strenuously denies the allegations printed, which have been detrimental to both his personal and business life. I hope that you will print this to show an entirely different point of view.

Helena McGinty, Alhaurin

Alan Webb, UK

Allowance vital

ED: Thanks for your letter. For your information, we did contact David a week before the article went to print.

But we are always interested in hearing all sides of the story.

I have never been to a bullfight but I did watch part

CROSSMOT 16

Across 1 Links (7) * 5 Puff (5) * 8 Suppressing (2, 9, 2) * 9 Without (3) * 10 Highway (9) * 12 Pasa (6) * 13 Esfera (6) * 15 Immediate (9) * 16 Goma (3) * 18 Starve (5, 2, 6) * 20 Remainder (5) * 21 Duchas (7).

Down 1 They (5) * 2 Nurses (3, 10) * 3 Ability (9) * 4 Saw (6) * 5 Esquí (3) * 6 Gingerbread (3, 2, 8) * 7 Funcionar (7) * 11 Explored (9) * 12 Nadador (7) * 14 Camellos (6) * 17 Se encuentra (5) * 19 River (3).

Chris Jopp, Marbella

I live in the Spanish Mountains because I suffer greatly from asthma, bronchitis, arthritis and have had pneumonia.

Julie Brend, Granada

Unfair claims

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

la cultura

www.theolivepress.es

Movie Bonanza

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013 19 19

what’s on

The Marbella International Film Festival kicks off from this week

S

an Pedro, October 5,

Marbella netball club will be holding a Macmillan coffee morning from 11am at Laude International School.

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orrox, October 8.

El Morche - Yo Jive

Dance Class from 8:15pm – 11:15pm held at Restaurante Parquesol in El Morche, Torrox.

By Alex Iszatt NEARLY two dozen countries will be represented at the Marbella International Film Festival starting this week.

Now in its eighth year the festival will see filmmakers from as far asUnited Arab Emirates, America and Colombia.

Representing England in the festival, which begins on October 2 are a number of films, including Hard Shoulder, No Smoke and The Gospel of Us. The best known British face however, will be baking favourite Jane Asher,

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evilla, October 9.

FAVOURITE: Britain’s own Jane Asher

and her mind-melding friend Uri Geller, who stars in the world premier of ‘The All Dayer’ on October 6.

Described as an ‘outrageous cocktail of the Inbetweeners, Human Traffic and Clerks´, it is based in Hastings and is bound to

be a popular showing.

Organised in conjunction with Marbella Town Hall, and the Andalucian Film Commission, all films are free and will be shown at the H10 Andalucia Plaza and the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos.

Ambitious filmmakers

Cinema on the slide Internet piracy and recession blamed SPANISH cinema attendances have fallen by 6.5% in the past two years.

The recession and the need to increase tax revenue, while decreasing debt, has seen leisure events taxed by up to 21%.

With one in four Spanish unemployed, entertainment is taking a hit and audiences are more likely to spend money on a blockbuster as a treat once every three months.

The film industry has also been hit in the pocket. Public grants have been cut by 35%.

The National Film Fund, which is by far the largest funder of Spanish film production, only received €49million instead of the usual €76million.

While the recent San Sebastian film festival gets a lot of press, smaller film festivals like

Valencia’s Mostra and Punto de Vista in Pamplona have had to cancel or go biannual.

Residents are turning away from the big screen and are finding their movies online. Dubbed the ‘Download King of Europe’ – a government study found that 30% of the population uses file-sharing websites, compared with the rest of the Europe’s 15%.

Spain is not the only country to feel the decline. On average, cinema attendances across Europe fell by 0.9%, with Portugal experiencing a drop of 12.3%.

In contrast the US, saw a 6% increase. The UK has seen a decline in annual cinema attendances from 200million in 1970 to 150 million last year, according to the European Audiovisual Observatory.

can get involved with the 24 Hour Film Challenge, where a three to four minute short film on a given subject matter, must be written, directed, shot, edited and delivered all within 24 hours.

For the first time since its inception, the festival is allowing filmmakers to submit their films online.

All films submitted in time will be screened and judged as part of Marbella International Film Festival, on Sunday 6.

The Gala Awards dinner will provide a perfect end to the festival. Held at the H10 Andalucia Plaza, the black tie event includes a cocktail reception, music and a meal, culminating in the acclaimed 2013 Awards Ceremony.

Registration forms for the 24 hour Film Challenge is available from: info@ marbellafilmfestival.com More information on the festival can be found at www.marbellafilmfestival.com

Flamenco star Jose Galvan, one of the leading masters of the Sevillian school showcases her art at the Central Theatre, Sevilla.

Tickets from €18 call 955 03 72 00

M

ijas Costa, October 10. Michelle Chaplow,

an industry photographer will be delivering a speech at Club La Naranja on the importance of photography for luxury hotels and travel destinations.

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erja, October 12,

Nerja, Magic Music Party, Playa Calahonda. From 10pm free.

F

uengirola, October 12. Masked Ball in aid of

the CHAIN animal charity is to take place at the Tamisa Golf Hotel. The event starts at 7pm. More info from Jo on 696 430 160.

M

arbella, October 24 – 25. Hosted by

the International Federation of Business women the Empowered Women event takes place at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos www.bpwconnectingplus.org

V

era, October 24. Vera

MIND MELDER: Uri Geller

and District Lions club has brought together 12 of the best karaoke singers in the area in aid of a local charity. The show begins at 8pm at the club house and costs €10. To reserve tickets contact John at Miraflores on 608 260 157.

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A second excerpt from Matthew Pritchard’s new book, Scarecrow

Nail-biting to the very end

Hero Danny Sanchez returns to the UK to uncover the demons he thought he had left behind. Remembering the good and the bad from his days at the Bugle, side-kick to senior reporter Ray Taylor, Danny is desperate for the truth behind the gruesome discovery of a body in Spain, during a demolition of an expat’s home. Pritchard’s book, roughly based on the story of the Prior’s - whose house was illegally demolished – is a thrilling crime novel from start to end.

‘

THE ambulance crew pumped Ray’s stomach there in the office, managed to get him conscious enough to feed a tube up through his left nostril.

Danny watched the tiny fragments of white tablet as they sucked them out, hoping it would be enough to save him.

Ray was in a coma by the time he reached hospital.

He died that night...

‘

Danny’s life crumbled after that; everything he’d thought solid proved to be made of spit and sand. Continuing at The Bugle was impossible. He handed his notice in next day, then phoned in sick. The bastards had killed Ray, snatched from him the foundations of his life for the sake of scrimping a few miserable pennies.

But the cushion of anger deflated quickly, punctured by guilt and grief.

It wasn’t The Bugle’s fault. It was Danny’s...

‘

For a moment their eyes met and they exchanged brief smiles.

Kimberley had played her hand masterfully; Danny had no option now but to reveal what the source of his interest was. Contrition only went so far;

once a reporter, always a reporter.

‘I’m looking for details on UK murders work -’‘Nice small subject then.’ ‘- Working backwards from 1995.’

‘And not in a digitised format.

Even better.’ The man’s tone was so sour that Danny expected the receiver to pucker.

Kimberly butted in. ‘Come on, Writer: Matthew Pritchard Nathan, don’t tell me there isn’t a monthly package of down. I’ll see what I can do.’ the latest juicy murders gets ‘So,’ Kimberley said, replacsent off to some true crime ing the receiver. ‘You’re here magazine.’ because of the There came Scarecrow ena sound of quiry? Is this smoke exsomething to I stuck my neck haled. ‘Maybe.’ do with Ray?... out for you and ‘Well then, half got an ear-bashyour work’s Danny igdone, isn’t it?’ nored the curiing. Goodbye ‘What am I osity sparkling looking for, exin Kimberactly?’ ley’s eyes as ‘Anything behe shook her fore 1995 involving unusual hand once more. ‘It’s good to c i r c u m - stances with the see you again, Kim. I’ll speak body being tam- to you tomorrow. ‘... pered with,’ Danny said.

Danny went back to the ‘How unusual?’ pub. His phone rang: O’Byrne.

‘Genital muti- ‘I spoke with Edward Shelley.’ lation. Or the ‘What did he say?’ Danny body being in- knew from O’Byrne’s tone it terfered with was bad news. in some way ‘Absolutely out of the quesafter death. tion. He said, and I quote, Particularly “Deepmere is the patients’ with make- home, not some Victorian up being bedlam for random strangers applied to to come in and gawk”.’ the face.’

‘Thanks for try -’ T h e ‘I stuck my neck out for you sound of and got an ear-bashing. Our splutter- business together is concluding. ‘You’re right, ed. Goodbye.’ that does help narrow things The phone went dead.

‘

‘

’

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Fanfare of fun

Leading Jazz acts – including Jools Holland and Melanie C – to perform on the Rock

By Claire Wilson SOME of the biggest stars of the UK jazz scene are to perform at the Gibraltar Jazz Festival next weekend.

Jools Holland, Melanie Chisolm and the Dan Moretti Band are headlining the festival, which is now in its second year.

The former Spice Girl will be performing with Holland, who will be joined on stage by his 20-strong Rhythm and Blues Orchestra on the final night of the three day festival.

Melanie C has carved BIG BAND: Jools Holland and (right) Mel C out a successful solo career spanning the past shops on all three days and will be decade, setting up her own record la- performing on the Friday. bel and taking to the West End stage This year’s festival, which runs in productions of Blood Brothers and from October 17 to 19 at the Queen’s Jesus Christ Superstar.

Cinema, follows the success of the Last year’s star attraction - Dan inaugural event last June.

Moretti - will be running jazz work- Tickets are selling fast, and organ-

isers say VIP tickets for the final night have already sold out.

Tickets are available from Music Corner on Main Street, and a limited number are on sale through online agents Ticketmaster and Eventbright.

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Viva the vendimia!

Photos by Karl Smallman

AUTUMN marks the arrival of the grape harvest – or vendimia - in Spain.

Serrania de Ronda, around three dozen bodegas are hard at work collecting their crops ready to blend it into wine.

One such winery, now busy picking its grapes, is the Mures bodega of Julio Sánchez Moreno in the tiny village of Atajate, the smallest in Malaga province.

The finca grows four varieties of grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo and Chardonnay and produces between six and 7,000 bottles of wine every year.

The artisan wines can be enjoyed in many fine restaurants and bars across the area including the Molino del Santo in Benaojan, La Casa Grande in Alpandeire and Restaurante Audalazar in Atajate.

They can also be purchased from the bodega - which is also Julio’s home - in calle Nueva in Atajate. More info on 627633649 or email: pagodemures@gmail.com

Google zoo view

WILDLIFE lovers in Spain no longer have to leave the comfort of home to visit the zoo.

Google Maps has unveiled images from within Spanish animal parks as part of its street view technology.

Zoo Aquarium de Madrid and Parc Zoologic de Barcelona are both featured, as is Whipsnade Zoo in the UK. Venues in France, Germany and Belgium are also among those included in the project.

It’s fiesta time in Fuengirola THE annual Feria del Rosario will take place in Fuengirola between October 6 and 12.

Launching with a fireworks display, there will be the usual rides and childrens entertainment every day,

as well as bullfights, flamenco shows, a disco and art exhibitions.

The annual event is a celebration of the town’s patron saint, Rosario, and one of the region’s largest and best-attended town fairs.

Trendsetting in Torre A FASHION show will mark the changing seasons in Alhaurin de la Torre.

More than 30 fashion designers will have pop up stalls at the Fashion and Beauty 2013 event in Plaza de Espana between October 4 and 6.

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ll about the

Jon Clarke follows in the footsteps of Michelle Obama... the Moors and the Romans before her

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errania de Ronda

WHERE TIME STANDS STILL

PRESIDENTS MEN: Obama and entourage descend into La Mina

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Turn to Page 24

Photos by Jon Clarke

HERE are over 300 steps down to the bottom of the old siege tunnel of the Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King) in the historic historic core of Ronda.

But this didn’t deter America’s first lady Michelle Obama from witnessing first-hand how the Arabic defenders used to collect water during the regular sieges in the dark days of the 14 and 15th centuries.

On a cultural break to explore the history of the Nasrid dynasty in Andalucia two years ago, she and her daughter spent a day in Ronda.

Having wandered around the old town, visited the bull ring and the charming Palacio Mondragon, she decided to take a spot of proper exercise.

By taking the steep staircase – ‘la Mina’ - down to the bottom of the gorge (which incredibly the vast majority of tourists do not do) she was really getting to appreciate the rich history of the mountain town.

Restored in 1911, it had been POMP: Torero Fran Rivera Ordonez, who owns the Ronda bullring, en route to Ronda’s famous Goyesca bullfight

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Serrania de Ronda special

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BATH TIME

From Page 23

dug by Christian slaves to get water from the River Guadelevin during the reign of Ronda’s Moorish king, Abomelik.

While it had been intended as a secret, it clearly didn’t stay that way, as Christians living in the region used the refrain that “in Ronda you die carrying water skins”.

By the time of the collapse of the Arabic rule in 1485, Ronda had been receiving foreign visitors for some 1500 years.

Established in 9BC, it is one of Spain’s oldest towns and in Roman times was completely independent with a thriving wine industry and even with

Roman Acinipo, a 20 min drive away is an incredibly haunting place to visit its own coinage, fittingly with a tendril of grapes on its flipside.

A bustling military bastion known as Arunda - which means ‘surrounded by mountains’ - renovate any old building in the area and you are bound to find something of interest.

Take the recent discovery at the 12 hectare finca of Morosanto, near Arriate, just outside Ronda.

Here, on a lovely wide open slope, archaeologists have found a ‘lagar’ or grape-treading floor and pipes through which wine was transported

HISTORY: Classical town hall and (top right) Roman Acinipo to vats.

The discovery – among a series of columns, statues and a 21-metre Roman swimming pool and sauna - now means that historians can link the production of wine in Ronda to 3AD. But you can certainly feel the weight of the Romans just wandering around the old parts of the town, which is full of stunning corners, arches and doorways.

One of its three main bridges across the Tajo (or Ronda’s famous gorge) is often called the ‘Roman bridge’, although it is actually Moorish in origin.

Look west from any vantage point along the top of the Tajo and try and spot the flattened out hilltop where the Romans built their formidable fortified

town of Acinipo.

A 20-minute drive from the town, it is an incredibly haunting place, particularly during stormy weather, when you really feel you are on top of the world.

Take a wonder around the site, where they keep finding new buildings every year, aside from the amazing amphitheatre.

But before you take the drive up to Acinipo you should start any walking tour of the town at the oldest, most interesting part of Ronda down at its ancient Arabic baths.

Said to be the best preserved example in Spain, the baths have little changed since Arabic Ronda – then on the extreme Western flank of the beleaguered Kingdom of Granada - fell to Christian monarchs Isabel and

Isolation and bandits!

DESPITE being only 20 miles from Marbella and with much improved road access, these days it is still a slow 45-minute climb to get to the Ciudad Sonada (or City of Dreams), as it was christened by celebrated Dutch poet Rilke.

Add to that a distinctly harsher climate (it is a good five degrees lower than the coast in winter, and five degrees more in summer) and a lot of people are put off.

Much of this is to do with its formidable mountain boundaries, which for decades have served as the perfect barrier against the type of development – and thankfully people!

- that have ravaged the nearby Costa del Sol. Everywhere you look are mountains and the city is flanked by the national parks of the Sierra de las Nieves and Grazalema as well as the formidable Serrania de Ronda to the south.

So cut off was the town that it became famous for its bandits in the 18th and 19th centuries, when these outlaws frequently ruled the roost. Today their names are much revered, being used for restaurants such as Tragabuches or for wines such as Pasos Largos.

Need to know

RONDA sits 113km from Malaga city, situated in the Serrania de Ronda at an altitude of 739 metres above sea level. The town is home to a population of around 40,000 Rondeños.

Useful Numbers: Tourist Offices: Paseo de Blas Infante. Tel.: 952 18 71 19 / Plaza de España. Tel.: 952 87 12 72 / C/ Espíritu Santo nº 37.

Tel.: 952 87 07 39 Taxi: 952 87 40 80 Railway Station: 952 87 16 73 Bus Station: 952 87 22 60 Emergency services: 112 General Hospital: 951 06 50 00 Fire Brigade: 952 87 19 58 Ambulance: 952 18 75 41 Local Police: 092 / 952 87 13 69 National Police: 091 / 952 16 12 20

Fernando after a long struggle.

An atmospheric place built mostly in the 13th century, a virtual reality film takes visitors back to the days of Arabic Ronda, when the Moors knew it as Runda.

In both English and Spanish ten minutes apart it is about as good an introduction as you are going to get to any town in Andalucia.

From here it is an easy walk up into the Casco Historico, which is a wonderful place to while away a morning or afternoon, and now until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, with the town trying to encourage more tourists to spend the night here.

You firstly head up through an evocative arch to the splendid Renaissance mansion known as the Palacio del Marques de Salvatierra, which has a portal

The Casa del Rey Moro was once rented by Withnail and I actor Paul McGann full of colonial images of Peruvian images.

A few paces up the hill and you arrive at the aforementioned Casa del Rey Moro, the house of which is actually an 18th century mansion, which was once rented by Withnail and I actor Paul McGann.

Keep on going and you will finally get to the famous Tajo bridge and its breathtaking views, as well as the bull ring.

It is one of Andalucia’s top visitor attractions and particularly worthwhile for its Goya etchings and the perfect proportions of its soft sandstone arches.

One of the oldest in the world it was here that Michelle Obama ended her tour, before fittingly taking a bite of lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Best of all, as she left for the winding 45-drive back to her hotel on the coast, the world’s most powerful woman is said to have told local dignatories that she would “definitely be back.”... and next time with her husband!

Now that would be another fabulous step in the history of one of Spain’s most evocative towns.

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Taking a circular stroll through the old town is a great way to understand Ronda’s important history, writes Claire Wilson

S

ITTING on a plateau of large, rugged cliffs Ronda was unsurprisingly one of the last Moorish cities to fall during the Reconquest of Spain by the Catholic monarchs.

It is easy to see why it was so hard to seize during a two hour walking tour around its old town.

Start your walk at the top of the Tajo gorge, which is topped with ancient houses teetering on the cliff top.

Cross the famous Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), and head right, through the winding alleys, keeping close to the gorge. Be warned, though, looking over the walls at that 100 meter drop is not for the faint hearted!

At Plaza Duquesa de Parcent you’ll come across the Santa Maria la Mayor church. Construction began in 1485 but was not completed until the 17th Century, which explains its combination of different artistic styles.

The three naves include Gothic columns, which survived an earthquake in 1580 that destroyed part of the church. The image of the Virgin, one of the building’s most important elements, is attributed to the work of Montañes or La Roldana, depending on which researcher you choose to favour.

DETAILS: Salvatierra palace, the Arabic baths and (right) Plaza Duquesa de Parcent

INTERNATIONAL

PRESS Papers Magazines Internet Telephones Fax C/Mariano Soubiron 5, Ronda (in front of Hotel Polo)

952 879 280

Hideout for centuries Across the road you will find the stunning neoclassical town hall, with its stunning Ronda stone arches.

Head down to Plaza San Francisco and the charming Almocobar gate, a former Arabic gate and well-fortified entrance to the town.

From here, double back before heading into the eastern part of the old town looking out for the fabulous Mina, where the town’s Arabic defenders could find water in a time of siege.

Further down the hill lie the Arabic baths, which are considered one of the best preserved in Europe and were still in use in the 17th Century.

According to the Muslim custom of the time, those coming into the city needed to be purified, explaining their location next to the ancient Puente Arabe.

From here, head uphill along-

side the north of the gorge until you arrive in the new town of Ronda.

You will finally make it back to the famous bridge, where just 200 metres away is the town’s must-see Plaza de Toros, the oldest bullring in Spain and where the rules of bullfighting were also codified over 300 years ago.

Two famous bullfighting families have emerged from the ring; the Romeros being the first. Pedro Romero was the most notable of the Romeros, he killed more than 5000 bulls, without suffering injury to himself, during the course of his career.

A second dynasty of bullfighters emerged in the 20th century, the Ordonez family. Father

and son Cayetano and Antonio Ordonez have been credited with luring both Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles into the crowds of spectators, thanks to their seductive bullfighting technique.

Antonio went on to found the famous Goyesca bullfight, now one of the most expensive, and well-attended, fights in the country. It takes place every September, and both spectators and fighters dress in traditional clothing and the town is decked out in decor reminiscent of the period.

The bullfighting museum within the ring has sections dedicated to these two families, among other memorabilia which gives a good insight into one of Spain’s bloodiest traditions.

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Serrania de Ronda special

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Balcony of the Serrania Gaucin is the true starting point of the Ronda mountains and has a vibrant and buzzing art and cultural scene, writes Paul Whitelock

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T’S called the balcony of the Serrania de Ronda and it’s not hard to see why.

Perched high on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, the

views from Gaucin stretch across not one, but two continents.

In fact, on a clear morning, Gibraltar lies brooding off the coast in the distance while across the short straits you can practically see the Moroccans getting ready for the day. It’s hard to believe that Africa is so close.

Gaucin has also long been one of the hippest places to live in Andalucia.

A select holiday spot for the likes of the Sainsbury family, Fatboy Slim – and allegedly once Princess Diana - it has also become a popular town for many cultured expatriates – up to 300 - who have chosen to settle here.

It is this interesting and varied group of northern Europeans – many of them artists, photographers and writers – that gives the town a distinctly creative and prosperous air.

So organised are the dozens of artists, that they organise annual open days of their studios every year to show off their work.

Gaucin ise only 30 minutes from the Costa del Sol, but it feels a million miles away.

It may not have the attractions of the coast below, or the key

There are no supermarkets but you can get the UK Sunday newspapers tourist sites you find in nearby Ronda, but what it does have is a raw beauty and unspoilt countryside that sucks you in.

Small enough to remain untroubled by supermarket chains (one of its best food shops Pura Vida is strictly organic, local produce) you can’t even get an English newspaper.

Oh! apart from the Sundays at the petrol station when a friend of the owner personally goes down to the coast to buy them.

There are however, plenty of fantastic bars and restaurants and the narrow streets and shady squares are a great place to hang out in summer.

Wander around and enjoy the jumble of whitewashed houses – many of them quite grand – lorded over by the historic arabic castle the Castillo del

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ARTIST CENTRAL Photographer Jane Jewson on the creativity that has made Gaucin one of Andalucia’s true destinations for artists

I OLD WAYS: Typical street scene, the Eagle castle above the town and a child and mother at a fountain Aguila.

Then take a ride out into the nearby countryside, where there are a host of excellent hotels or restaurants for a meal or somewhere to lay down your head.

Even better, get up early and take one of the superb walks that go in circular routes around the town. The countryside here is some of the best in the region and views are not in short supply.

The history of Gaucin is fascinating and pretty turbulent by anyone’s standards.

Archeological remains indicates a settlement here that dates right back to pre-historic times.

Subsequent ‘visits’ by, among others, Iberians, Phoenicians, Romans, Visigoths, Moors and the French have all contributed to a troubled history for the village.

The town’s position at the head of the stunning Genal valley always made it subject to frequent attack.

Yet these invaders, together with the ’invasion’ of northern Europeans in the last few decades, have all helped to weave the rich tapestry that is modern-day Gaucin.

But these newcomers are no trailblazers. Gaucin has been watching foreign tourists – and particuarly the British - come and go for centuries.

Gibraltar was the key to Gaucin’s early popularity with the British. From the late 18th century, many of those whom the Empire had dispatched to the Rock chose to spend their summer breaks in the cool of the mountains and away from the claustrophobia of Gibraltar.

Ronda was a favourite destination, which led to British engineers to be commissioned to build a railway from Algeciras all the way to Ronda in the late 19th century, stopping conveniently in Gaucin.

But, even before then a famous hotel, the Hotel Nacional, was putting up tourists inside its historical four walls.

Run by a popular local figure Dona Clemen, it became an institution and only finally shut half a decade ago.

Previously known as the Hotel Ingles it is appropriate that the visitors book was dominated by British comments, such as one by a Royal Artillery captain, who

wrote that he was “satisfied” with his stay in 1882.

These days the tourists tend to be a little bit more gushing and, while discreet, many of them come back time and time again. It is not hard to see why.

T is hard to avoid the influence of art in Gaucin.

All around the town are scattered a series of brightlycoloured geckos, 250 in total - part of an art project inspired by the town’s artistic leanings.

There are literally dozens of Josaba’s wife Maria, a forartists living in and around mer television producer, is the town. They are inspired also adding to the mix, by by its intensity of light and launching a wedding and panoramic views over roof- events planning company tops to craggy rock forma- Un Plan Sencillo. tions caressed by oak-clad The couple have come to foothills sweeping down to Gaucin partly because of the valley floor and in the it’s reputation as a haven distance Gibraltar and Af- for artists and for the corica. lourful and lighter palette The group now own associa- offered by a landscape far tion, Art Gaucin and open less muted by the inclemstudio weekends are pro- ent weather conditions that moted once or twice a year, often dull the terrain of with the artists are con- their home ground in northtactable via a new website ern Spain. www.artgaucin.com.

One artist Lesley Riddi- To make an arrangement to hough’s paintings are on view his work, go to www. display at Molino del Santo sanchezzabaleta.com or hotel in Benaojan, while her website www.unplanStephanie Thompson’s de- sencillo.es. lightful greetings cards can be bought at Bonissim, Karen O’conner’s truly delectable delicatessan in Calle Luis Arminan.

Paddy Robinson offers painting classes, while Victoria Orr Ewing has lately joined forces with Ali Mudge and Lucy Verney to form Painting And Pilates in Spain.

Highly accomplished and prize winning artist Victoria heads the team which offers a choice of residential or non residential holidays.

One exciting new arrival is Josaba Zabaleta Sanchez, whose stylish home in Calle Larga, near the 15th century church of San Sebastian is a charming spot.

His ground floor windows offer a tantalizing view into the artist’s working studio space and it was impossible not to be moved by the moody industrial scenes of his large canvases.

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Serrania de Ronda special

An island of independence The scenic mountain village of Arriate has a very distinct feel to its ‘snobby’ near neighbour Ronda... and now it has Andalucia’s top restaurant, according to Trip Advisor

I

T is hard to imagine that the best restaurant on the Costa del Sol is at least one hour from the coast.

But, according to Trip Advisor this month, El Muelle de Arriate is not only the top eaterie on the costa, but also in the whole of Andalucia.

Either way, there can certainly be few visitors to Frank Rottgering’s place that would feel cheated.

His charming restaurant – a former railway shack – in Arriate, 10 minutes from Ronda, is about as authentically Andalucian as you could ask for.

And that could easily be said about the village itself.

A buzzing place of nearly 5000 people, Arriate offers a great quality of life, well away from the usual tourist drag.

While just a short drive to Ronda it is a million miles away in character.

It wrestled control from its near neighbour over four centuries ago and its locals are fiercely independent of their pico, or ‘snobbish’, neighbours, who many Arrietenans say, lord it over the whole Serrania.

The eight-and-a-half kilometre square district – which is the smallest in Malaga province has been staunchly left wing since the death of dictator Franco in 1975.

“It is certainly far more open and friendly than Ronda,” explains local businesswoman Carmeli Gamarro, whose family firm Melgar have been cur-

ROMERIA: Arriate style

NEW AND OLD: El Muelle with Easter procession ing and salting meat for many centuries.

“The Arriatenos are wordly people, who have travelled the globe in order to work,” she continues.

This was certainly the case as many of them had to emigrate to Switzerland, France and Germany to work in the tough em-

poverished years of the 1960s and 1970s.

These days, many of them are back and you can’t help but notice the number of happy-looking pensioners hanging around watching the day go by.

One place Bar La Albarra is so famous for these old boys that one Dutch photographer put together an exhibition based entirely around its clientelle.

The queue at Pedro Montesino’s greengrocer usually snakes around the shop and is as good a snapshot of life in this Andalucian village as I can possibly conjure up.

It is here that his faithful customers patiently wait their turn, catching up on gossip and baracking Pedro, who is never short of a bit of banter himself.

A hard-working man, he is up with the lark to locate his wonderful selection of produce and spends much of his afternoon delivering it around the nearby area.

“And as long as the locals keep supporting our local shops and demanding good quality goods then I will continue finding them,” he says.

Pedro is typical of the Arriate stock. A staunch supporter of old fashioned village life, he spends most weekends enjoying the local countryside, when not looking after his ageing parents.

A keen hiker, he is forever in training for this or that, the highlight of his year being the annual 101km walk organised by nearby Ronda’s famous Foreign Legion.

“It is the best thing about living in a country village like this,” he explains.

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TRADITION: Easter parade and (right) an island of nature

It is little surprise that Arriate – after Ronda – is one of the only inland Malaga towns to continue to grow dramatically over the last decade.

Much of this must be down to the town’s reputation for being a party town.

Despite being ruled by the IU (or Communist party) for well over a decade (the socialist PSOE party finally took over in May), there is more interest in having fun than the teachings of Chairman Mao. This might perhaps explain, why – despite its apparent hard left leanings - the town has some of the best known Easter parades in Andalucia.

Highly competitive and reaching fever pitch around Good Friday, practically every family has a member in one parade or another.

Indeed, such is the clamour to be involved, the brotherhoods even hold lotteries for the right

to carry the floats (or tronos) of Jesus and Mary.

“It has always seemed a real contradiction to me,” says Jose Antonio Coca, a local fitness instructor and masseur, who grew up in the town. “The processions are taken very seriously and they are very moving, but it is a simple fact that most of those involved hardly ever go to church and so it is really just down to the tradition.”

Aside from the 400 years of tradition that brings thousands of visitors to see the Hermandad del Santisimo Cristo de la Sangre y del Santo Entierro de Cristo at Easter, there are other festivals such as the Romeria, the Dia de la Vieja, and the Fiesta en el Aire, which happens in a fortnight.

“It is this sort of thing that really makes the Arriate people stand out,” explains mayor Melchor Conde. “They are above all very generous; and always have an

open door and are happy to give you what they have.”

Another curious trait about Arriate is its wealth of musical talent. There are two town bands, a drumming group and ‘everyone plays one instrument or another,’ it is claimed.

It is a tradition that can be traced back even before the origins of the town, when a mythical group of country musicians roamed the area playing music in the dead of night.

Known as La Aurora de Arriate, the group of musicians still keep up the tradition playing in the dead of night on Sunday morning between the hours of 4am and 6am.

With origins from Arabic times in the 13th century, the coplas, or local songs, have been passed down from generation to generation and became famous when in 1973 the British National Geographic Society recorded them for an album on

Spanish cultural music.

A capacity for music is all too obvious with a visit to the incredible Los Caireles bar on the high street.

There are few surprises in the Serrania de Ronda as pleasant as walking through the anonymous colourful frosted glass doors on a concert night in winter, when it will be full of hundreds of music fans of all ages, colours and styles.

Much to do with the brothers Roberto and Monolo Rivera, who have a popular drumming troop Arriadh Cumcum da, the surprise is more the better, if you can persuade them to take you out back.

If so, you will soon realise that the bar you are standing in is just one small corner of what was once – since the 1940s Arriate’s Cine Ideal. And what a gem it is.

Still standing today, with its main screen and stage - not to mention 350 original wood and leather seats bought from ‘Cine Paris’ in Malaga in the 1950s - best of all are the stunning brightly-coloured hydraulic tiles that line the entrance.

“Our father was a real film fanatasist,” says Monolo. “This was one of the most popular cinemas in the Serrania.

“People came for miles around despite the movies being heavily censored by the local priest and mayor, who would watch the film first demanding cuts all over the place.”

Running until 1988, when due to dwindling audiences part of it had to be converted into a flamenco venue, the brothers have kept it intact despite numerous offers from developers to turn it into flats.

“This is our legacy and part of

our town’s key history,” says Roberto. “I grew up watching Cinema Paradiso and always dreamt of one day opening the cinema up again. One day we hope to be able to find the funding to do that.”

For the time being, they are busy organising a new edition of the Fiesta en el Aire, for October which was modelled on an idea that came from their father in the 1950s.

Taking place each October, the festival is an ‘open air’ celebration of the town’s artists, musicians ‘and creativity in general,’ explains Roberto, who is himself a photographer.

Weather permitting, the three day bash will see the whole town coming out onto the streets for a range of concerts, food and general fun.

It is, after all, what Arriate is about.

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Serrania de Ronda special

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Ronda is now one of the key outward bounds hubs in Andalucia... but certain dark forces have been holdng it back

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OMPLETELY encircled by mountains Ronda is fast becoming a top destination for hiking, cycling and mountain excursions.

It is good news for the town as there is a huge boom in the number of people coming to Spain for activity and green tourism.

Tourism experts estimate that around 15% of the 60-plus million people who visited Spain in 2008 spent € 4.26billion on eco-tourism. And the numbers are rising.

Rarely a weekend goes past when Ronda does not have some sort of cycle, walking or running event taking place and there are numerous clubs and associations.

In May, traditionally, the local army regiment ‘La Legion’ (or Foreign Legion) puts on its infa-

GREAT OUTDOORS HIKING: A walk towards Ronda from Grazalema mous 101-km race that snakes plete the race. around the nearby hills.

If this all sounds a bit too A true feat of grit and deter- stressful you might try some mination, some 7000-odd of the gentler guided cycling cyclists, walkers and runners routes offered by local compahave up to 24 hours to com- ny Cycle Ronda.

According to its boss Dutchman Ferry Staleman: “Ronda is a lovely city, but the real beauty of Ronda is outside town. I am sometimes overwhelmed by

Pilates and painting

the choices.”

With Staleman’s help, excursions head out to the neighboring towns like Arriate, Setenil, Ronda de la Vieja, El Gastor and Grazalema.

You can hire bikes at his shop, or nearby at the shop of former Tour de France pro Jesus Rosado.

If walking, is more your thing,

CLASS: At Victoria’s house

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ainting and Pilates in Spain was born when three friends from Gaucin came up with the idea of pooling their talents to create an active and creative holiday experience.

Victoria, Ali and Lucy have devised several all inclusive holiday packages designed to free your mind and invigorate your body.

You can learn to paint with oils, develop your fitness routine, or detox with raw food, with some time to relax by the infinity pool and eat fantastic meals.

They launched this April to great reviews and all of their guests have already booked for next year.

There is also the option to get a group of friends and family together and organise a tailor -made holiday, with activities on offer to keep everyone happy, like horse riding, tennis, hiking or dirt bike riding.

Victoria is a painter whose bohemian side is expressed not just by her landscapes but by her beautiful house on the hill, with views that stretch all the way to Africa via Gibraltar.

The painting course takes place at her studio, where there is plenty of inspiration for even the most inexperienced painter. She trained at The City and Guilds of London Art School and has shown her work both here in Spain and London.

Lucy’s delicious cooking fuels the holidays. She has been a professional cook for 20 years and formerly ran La Fuente res-

taurant in Gaucin.

Drawing on Spanish and Moroccan influences she creates seasonal menus that reflect her passion for food and local produce. Her raw food is delicious and healthy.

Alison Mudge started teaching yoga 12 years ago and trained as a pilates instructor three years ago. Her classes are tough but full of fun and accessible to all.

For more info call 952151465 or 699822454 and visit www. paintingpilatesspain.com

EVOCATIVE: The Molino Canto walk near Arriate

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FACTFILE: THE PICKS OF THE NEARBY SERRANIA

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ONDA is surrounded by two national parks, the Sierra de las Nieves to the East and the Sierra de Grazalema to the West. Both are full of wonderful walks and pretty towns. Here are a few suggestions for excursions out of Ronda.

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then there are a series of excellent sign-marked walks heading off from the town in all directions.

A number head through the famous Tajo gorge, while others head off to ‘secret’ spots, such as the incredible fan-shaped cave, Cueva de Abanico, in a stunning nearby valley.

The famous GR-7, or ‘gran recorido’, which heads from Tarifa to Athens, also goes through the town, but it has been somewhat controversially cut off by developers a few miles north of Ronda to build a golf course.

It was this very development, known as Los Merinos, that led to an almighty battle with local ecologists and nature lovers early this decade.

Interestingly, its opponents included one Alastair Boyd – aka Lord Kilmarnock – who was sometimes credited with planting the seed for Ronda’s outdoor renaissance.

Moving to the area in the 50s to indulge his passion of horse riding and to write, Boyd wrote two books about his travels through the nearby sierras.

“Every man should have his own sierra,” Boyd wrote in his first book, The Road from Ronda, in 1967.

Conservation Curiously, it was his horseback travels that would later became a catalyst for Spanish conservationists in the late 90s.

When real estate developers threatened to over-run the mountain area around Ronda in the late 90s and early 00s, Boyd, a retired member of the English House of Lords, argued for development restraint and environment protection.

While the golf course scheme is still in the balance – officially illegal due to a lack of water the dispute weakened Boyd’s health and he died at 81 in March 2009.

For information on walks head to the tourist offices in town, or try and get hold of a number of good local books, such as that of Guy Hunter Watts, that give detailed walking info.

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RONDA LA VIEJA (ACINIPO) A 15-minute drive from Ronda at the top of one of the highest hills in the area the Roman’s built their ancient city. It still has much evidence of their skills with a large part of its amphitheatre intact and a lot more to look at, not to mention the views.

The visitor centre is only open for the morning, but one can always climb up to the amphitheatre out of hours.

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GRAZALEMA AND ZAHARA Grazalema and Zahara are two of the most evocative towns around Ronda. Both set in spectacular scenery and with some lovely sites, Zahara has a towering castle above it and a great restaurant Al Lago, while Grazalema (a beautifully conserved gem) was once the centre of the wool industry and you can still buy delightful rugs and bedspreads.

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SETENIL DE LAS BODEGAS Only 20 minutes drive away, the historic Roman town of Setenil is a real eye opener and amazing for photography. Nestled in the rolling landscape north of Ronda, it was built on a series of caves, which served to keep the wines of the Romans cool in summer, hence its name. It is best to leave your car outside the town, wander up to the old fortress before heading down to the famous overhanging cave for a fine tapas lunch. Next door are a couple of shops selling local olive oil-based shampoos and soaps.

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BENAOJAN AND MONTAJAQUE If it is wonderful mountain scenery you are after and villages famous for their bandits then this pair are worth a visit. Montajaque has a cave with the oldest cave paintings in Spain, while Benaojan is the centre of the ham and sausage industry. There is a fabulous walk from Benaojan Estacion down the river to Jimera de Liber, from where you can get the train back. At each end is a great lunch spot, with Quercus and Molino del Santo.

Get into the saddle WHILE I have over 20 years experience with horses, I have learnt a lot from the local riders.

Coming from a traditional horsemanship background I like to use my knowledge and mix it with natural horsemanship.

Here, in the Genal Valley, I have seen foals conceived, born, ‘baby-sat’, and weened... all without any human help and it is great to learn so much.

The horses at Time and Space live freely, and naturally in a herd of over 30. There are young and old, all personalities, suited to all riding abilities and age of rider, and all barefoot.

We are surrounded by amazing views and wildlife whether you choose to have a session in the school, or take a trail ride into the mountains or along the river, near our base in Benadalid.

Apart from trail riding, from one hour to one week we hold a pony club every Saturday for children to learn all aspects of horsemanship and horse care.

We also hold special events such as picnic rides for both children and parents (or parents can join us in the car!); gymkanah (obstacle course on horse back); and native American fun days, where we decorate the horses with feathers and paint, and ride bare back!

Visit www.time-and-space-horse-riding.com for more info

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Serrania de Ronda special

Journey to the top of the

Once of the most stunning ways to get to Ronda is via the celebrated scenic route via Casares and Gaucin, writes Claire Wilson

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HERE are a few ways to get to Ronda, one inland from Malaga, via the Guadalhorce Valley, and the main one via the infamous San Pedro road, some 45 minutes of curves from the coast.

One fantastic alternative is to take your time and make an adventure out of the journey, taking a slower, far less busy scenic route via Casares and Gaucin, which allows for dozens of photo opportunities and many stops for lunch or coffee.

Your turn off is Estepona, where you head nine kilometres inland to Casares.

Famous for the la Hediona spa, pure waters from which supposedly cured Julius Caesar of a liver complaint, the village is built around a 12th century castle which was founded by the occupying Moors.

ROMAN: The Hediona baths in Casares Breathtaking on approach: it’s a layered expanse of traditionally Moorish whitewashed buildings hug the cliff, some of which look precariously high.

I challenge you not to pull up and take a photograph as it comes into sight!

Casares is hilly, and it is easy to lose yourself in its back alleys and footpaths as you look in awe at the Moorish architecture.

Your next stop is wonderful Gaucin. Sitting 600 meters above sea level, this pretty town is the start of the Serrania de Ronda proper.

Dominated by the Castillo del Aguila (Eagles Castle), it was

originally a Roman stronghold which was subsequently expanded by the Arabs.

From here, visitors will be treated to spectacular views of Gibraltar and, on a clear day, Morocco.

Flamenco festivals, art exhibitions and other cultural events are a staple of Gaucin life, while bird watchers will be thrilled to hear the village is circled by flocks of eagles and kestrels, and various migrating birds depending on the season.

Climbing further into the mountains you traverse the Genal Valley to your south and the Guadiaro Valley to your north.

This charming route is littered with pretty villages that date back to Arabic times and most ARABIC: have just a few hundred souls Fortress inhabiting them. at Great lunch stops include MoBenadalid lienda in Benalauria, or a short detour into Montejaque and Benaojan, two former bandit villages, where you will find the excellent Molino del Santo hotel and restaurant.

It would also be a great place to stay and nearby you have various caves to visit and some of the best walks in Andalucia.

All in all, the journey can take anything from two hours to two days. But it really is a delight, and no surprises a few years ago was dubbed officially a ‘route of specific scenery’. Happy travels!

What a chestnut!

JON CLARKE takes a stroll – and quite a few lunches - around one of Andalucia’s best kept secrets

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N weekends Jesus and Rosa’s charming res- r e s t a u taurant Casa Grande in Alpandeire fills up with rants, or a healthy mix of foodies and walkers eager to s o m e try its celebrated local, organic dishes. times The rest of the time you can hear a pin drop in the packing village, which boasts just 300 hardy souls, a couple a picnic. of donkeys and a doctor (well, once a week at least).

A par- STUNNING: The Antigua Real Fabr But this is not your average whitewashed Andalucian ticularly nice time to visit is the late autumn when the village. For starters, it is almost square in shape, it leaves of the valley’s predominantly chestnut (or cas has almost no expatriates and it counts on a church tano) trees start turning a bright, burning red. that is almost the size of a ‘cathedral’. And, that is Earlier in September it is fun to take a walk and pick what the locals call it. the numerous chestnuts that line the paths, before This is all down to one rather important Andalucian heading home to toast them on an open fire. character. For it was here in the 1866 that a monk “Chestnuts are the only stable business here,” contin Fray Leopoldo was born in the town. ues Beach. “Everybody is out in September and ever A pious man, he is credited with a number of mira- family has their trees.” cles and in 1961 the Vatican started the process of In total, there are four different varieties of chestnu beautifying him, he now he has been honoured with trees, some of them up to 500 years old. saint status, his disciples – mostly of the Capucin or- Each local village picks them and sells them to a lo der – are often found visiting the village. cal cooperative that markets them around Spain and Either way, is a charming spot, surrounded by breath- abroad. taking countryside with some of the best walks in The only other industry in the valley involves the pro Andalucia. duction of artisan products, such as baskets, cork Indeed there are few region’s as stools and blinds. evocative and unspoiled as the The latter – along with baskets and mats – Genal Valley, where Alpandeire are usually woven out of a plant, known as perches, surrounded by oak and esparto, which is found on the high peaks The area is said chestnut trees. known as the ‘riscos’ above the valley. to have one of Yet, as the crow flies, it is only Making beautiful blinds, which can be seen ten miles from the concrete ribEurope’s cleanon many traditional houses in Ronda, and bon of the Costa del Sol... and further afield in Sevilla, they are usuall est rivers the 99.9 per cent of the holiday made to order and are not cheap.

Genal makers will not have heard of Without a doubt, the Genal Valley’s main fu the little-visited area. ture will be tourism, with plans to open up And more’s the shame, bethe area with better roads and infrastructure cause the expansive valley that Said to have one of Europe’s cleanest rivers spreads over 42,000 hectares between the coast – the Genal – the area also boasts one of the last few and Ronda, is a paradise for walkers, wildlife lovers remaining Mediterranean Oak forests. and foodies.

There are plenty of places to swim in the river, one o Part of the Serrania de Ronda, this lovely collection the best down below Juzcar, where just across the rive of villages – 16 in total – are a joy to visit, each boast- you will find one of those remarkable little chestnuts ing their own local ventas and with a number of com- that makes your whole journey worthwhile. fortable and decent hotels.

For near this tiny village – now most famous for its “The fact that it is completely undiscovered makes Smurfs (see panel top right)- lies a former tin factory it the perfect paradise for me,” says Diana Beach, once with a royal seal, that now makes wonderful olive owner of Hotel Los Castanos, in nearby Cartijima. oil and is soon to produce its own wine.

“Surrounded by a vast landscape of chestnut forests In the process of being reformed by charming Catalan and craggy peaks, it is a great place to escape the Enrique it nestles in a secret valley and is peace per rat race.” sonified.

For many years I have enjoyed heading out to the val- Best of all, it is only 45 minutes to Marbella, which is ley for strolls, normally taking in one of the many good all the more remarkable.

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FEELING BLUE? JUZCAR WILL CHEER YOU UP

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What to buy – esparto bags ONE thing to look out for in the Genal Valley are baskets woven out of esparto grass that grows in the area. Once the main source of income for many families in the Sierra de las Nieves, sadly esparto products are now a dying trade.

In Igualeja however you can visit a womens’ cooperative that aims to keep the tradition alive as well as forming jobs for locals.

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OOKING for something completely different? Well Juzcar certainly offers an alternative look to the ubiquitous pueblo blanco.

For this tiny village is painted entirely blue... and in, what is bound to be a hit with anyone under the age of 10, the village was chosen

by Sony Pictures to promote the two Smurfs film, in 2011 and 2013.

Juzcar beat competition from 200 other villages because it looked most like the fictional village where the Smurfs live.

Two years on and it has received over 200,000 visitors – that is more than 350 a day. Not bad for a village of just 250 residents – and no surprise then that locals voted to keep it blue.

Guided tours (Smurf-themed, naturally) are available all year round.

VISTA: View of the Genal Valley, Frey Leopoldo (top) and a Stone Age circle (right)

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Serrania de Ronda special

At Algaba you can find out what Andalucia was like 5000 years ago, discovers Eloise Horsfield

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ANT to get an idea what life was like in Andalucia 5,000 years ago?

Well, at the Algaba education centre just outside Ronda, you have the perfect opportunity.

Through its hauntingly realistic prehistoric village you learn

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about how our forefathers created fire, ground their bread, as well as decorated their homes.

You can even find out what they did with their dead.

“We teach people about ancient Mediterranean ecosystems because this land has been occupied from prehistoric times VISIONARY: Juan Terroba

Keeping prehistory alive

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LIFETIME living in Jimena de la Frontera would do wonders for your health.

For most, jaunts across the historic town are likely to involve a challenging ascent.

All roads lead to Rome but, in the case of Jimena, these sloping streets wind up to the 13th Century Moorish castle that continues to watch over the cobbled lanes and lovingly maintained whitewashed homes.

The castle – a constant reminder of Jimena’s intriguing past – rises up above the town, keeping a wary eye on the looming mountain peaks of the surrounding Serrania de Ronda.

And the short, but challenging,

to the present day,” explains owner Juan Terroba.

Algaba’s work also includes research and teachings on the geology and ornithology of the area, as well as acting as a rare breeds centre for endangered cows.

These include the Spanish Pajuna – of which there are just 500 left (pictured far left)– as well as the Andalucian Cardena, which in the early 90s had been reduced to just seven individuals.

Thanks to the work of organisations like Algaba, there are now around 200 Cardenas.

Guests and groups can now come and stay at the centre’s restored 250-year-old finca.

“It is certainly a place where people can come and get away from it all”. www.algabaderonda.com

The good life

You’ll need stamina to live in Jimena de la Frontera...a town with a big heart, writes Andy Pearce walk to the all-seeing medieval stronghold is well worth the effort as panoramic vistas greet the eye once the steep hillside is conquered.

Once an important vantage point for the Moorish armies, the castle witnessed many battles as Christian armies laid siege in numerous blood-thirsty attempts to claim the towering site as their own.

Even before such struggles the

town has been home sporadically to the Iberians, Phoenicians and Carthaginians, as well as the Romans.

These days, however, such combat and instability is fortunately consigned to the history books as Spaniards and expatriates of varied nationalities contribute in equal measure to the vibrant social scene of what, at first glance, appears to be a sleepy Andalucian out-

post.

And it is this healthy relationship that immediately becomes apparent from just a few hours strolling the streets of Jimena.

A visit to just one of the many inviting bars and authentic restaurants – which serve as the perfect refuelling stations once a winding road has been negotiated – will reveal the special bond that the townsfolk have successfully nurtured over recent years.

This mix of old and new, working together in perfect tandem, is one of Jimena’s great hallmarks, the vast majority of its buildings – in many cases dating back centuries – still ooze their original charm after carefully-managed restoration projects.

Despite having changed in size and amenities considerably, Jimena remains worlds apart from the built-up coastal resorts that lie just 25 minutes away by car.

The development of the town has been witnessed by resident of 20 years Alberto Bullrich, who first visited Jimena a mere 40 years ago.

“Jimena used to be an extremely quiet but amazingly beautiful mountain town,” explains Bullrich.

JIMENA FACTFILE

The town was officially declared of Historical and Artistic importance in 1983. With a present population of just over 10,000 (some 1,000 of whom are foreign residents, many of them British), its narrow, cobbled streets and white-washed, tile-roofed Andalucian houses retain a village ambience.

HEALTHY LIVING: Jimona de la Fontera “I came back 20 years later and I suddenly saw the first signs of change. For instance, a medical centre had appeared.

“What is so special is that it is still a small town with a rural feel to it, but it has significantly opened up over the years and welcomed its ever-growing expatriate population without losing its original identity.”

Glowing praise is no stranger to Jimena.

In fact, it was so highly regarded by Spanish King Alfonso XII that he declared in 1879 that it should be officially recognised as a town, rather than a village.

Would-be walkers and intrepid explorers are blessed with the Parque Natural de los Alcornocales, which stretches away

from both the north and southern ends of town.

Bristling with cork oaks, called alcornocales, this natural park is home to an incredible array of birds and insects.

The potential treks include the ‘Walk of the Old Mill’ and the ‘Walk of the Wolf and the Pigs’, both begin in Jimena but soon take their followers on challenging circuits that are brimming with incredible views.

Not only is Jimena town home to some challenging daily treks as people negotiate the picturesque cobbled streets as part of their daily routine, but the surrounding countryside offers even more testing excursions.

The town really does work wonders for your health!

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Serrania de Ronda special

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Buy a bomb factory

EXPLOSIVE OFFER : Jimena’s bomb factory

There are some incredible deals to be had in the Serrania de Ronda

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T is little surprise that the Ronda area has become one of Andalucia’s most popular places to visit by those-inthe-know.

And equally no surprise that a large number of foreigners end up buying in the area, many working in tourism, while others have simply retired to enjoy the good mix of countryside and attractive local towns and villages.

There is certainly a wonderful range of properties from country fincas to flats and from village homes to grand townhouses.

“Whatever, if you enjoy a quieter life away from the rat-race, you like spectacular scenery and unspoilt mountain towns then the Serrania is for you,” says agent Irene Ortiz, from Serrania Services.

“It is cheaper than on the coast and there is a huge variety of activities available, including bird-watching, ballooning and horse-riding.”

The capital Ronda is a big town

T is being described as a ‘unique opportunity’ to buy a slice of Andalucian history.

And it is hard to argue that the amazing 1778 building in Jimena de la Frontera does not fit into this category.

Called appropriately the ‘bomb factory’, it was built by the Duke of Medina Sidonia to manufacture cannonballs.

Essentially a blast furnace, it produced 200 tons of iron annually and it made 84,000 cannonballs during the Great Siege of Gibraltar between 1779 to 1783.

It was later used to make machinery and even a bridge at El Puerto de Santa Maria.

Chosen for its location next to the River Hozgarganta and protected by Jimena castle it was the perfect site for a bomb factory.

Today though it has been con-

High Life! of 40,000 plus people and contains most of the modern amenities.

“It is a real bonus having a proper hospital, with a new one actually being built on the edge of town,” adds Ortiz.

There are certainly many attractive properties both in the town and in nearby Gaucin, the Genal Valley or Jimena.

Closer by, one of the best bargains, is the stunning threebedroom Poet’s Cottage in the heart of the buzzing village Arriate, just 10 minutes from Ronda. (See advert) This stunningly converted home has dropped in price by 40% to just €130,000 for an immediate sale.

Renovated to the highest standards with sustainability in mind, the stone built property counts its own leafy garden with a splash pool, as well as a massive vine-covered roof terrace with views for miles around.

In Casares you will be well catered for by Oscar and Anita at Villas & Fincas, who have been covering the Serrania – and further afield – for well over a decade.

Meanwhile in Gaucin, where there are some fabulous homes and properties, make sure to check out Gaucin Properties, run by Dianne Shotton, or CB Properties, also in the town.

In Jimena, a stunning hilltop town, topped with a castle, around 1,000 expats have set up their home.

Local agent Andalucia Country Houses offers an interesting selection of village houses, from period properties to reformed houses with pools and gardens.

“We also have some true gems waiting for the right owner to come along and bring them back to life!” says owner Karen Banham.

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verted into a private home with two self-contained holiday flats, with two swimming pools.

Sitting on the edge of the Alcornocales Park, and close to the Serrania de Ronda this really is a superb deal a €525,000, but due to a need to sell fast the owners would listen to offers of just under €400,000 Being sold through Andalucia Country Houses, it is certainly one to visit.

Said boss Karen Banham: “When clients come to us looking for property in Andalucia, we often heare they are looking for something with an income.

“Couples in their mid 50’s are rarely ready to retire and this is the perfect new challenge.”

And for this price it is a real ‘bomba’ (or bargain) as they say in Spanish.

Contact Karen at sales@andalucia-country-houses.com for more information.

BARGAIN: Two Gaucin bargains, left, 4-bed house, €575,000 (CB Properties) above, 2-bed house €230,000 (Gaucin properties)

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Learning the lingua

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OOKING for an inspirational place to brush up on your Spanish? Or really crack the language?

Rondalingua is a new language centre, whose objective is to help students learn languages in a fun, practical and effective way.

Whatever level you have, the teachers will take you through the labyrinth that is Spanish grammar to come out the other side with the skills needed to truly enjoy your experience of visiting or living in Spain.

The owners, Charlotte Wilmot and Jaime Lopez, endeavour to make their students’ experiences enjoyable. And their team offers a wealth of experience in teaching.

With small groups, the classes are practical and personalised and Rondalingua now offers classes for native English/bilingual children, with a qualified and experienced teacher.

The classes are designed to encourage the children to develop their literacy skills; from Jolly Phonics for the little ones to creative writing and project work for the older ones.

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Serrania de Ronda special

Mountain of repose

You are spoilt for choice with a raft of romantic and hip places to stay around the Serrania

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PPROPRIATELY dubbed the ‘City of Embrujo, run by friendly Esther from Valladolid.

Dreams’ by Dutch poet Rilke there are It has a basement spa and is a minute walk from plenty of excellent places to stay in the around a dozen tapas bars.

Ronda area.

Meanwhile Poet’s Cottage is a charming village In the heart of the city you are spoilt for choice, house, with three bedrooms that can be rented with La Colegiata hard to beat on value and loca- from just 200 euros for the weekend. tion. Sited in the most atmospheric square in the Finally, if you are looking for real luxury, then plan old town, you can really feel the weight of history to stay a long weekend in the amazing Alcantaand the charming Belgium-run hotel has been rilla estate, which sits in two hectares of amazing nicely renovated and its rooms are comfortable. gardens with stunning views.

In the countryside nearby are some of Andalu- An authentic farmhouse in Ronda’s Llano de la cia’s most hip hotels.

Cruz valley, it dates back to Moorish (and even These include stylish Fuente de la Higuera, possibly Roman) times, and has seven bedrooms where British Prime Minister David Cameron but can be split into two parts. has stayed, and Molino del Arco, which is a joy For campers, by far your best option is Camping to visit, even if just for its amazing landscaped Sur, a short walk into Ronda, with its own shop gardens. and restaurant, while a new complex Cedro Alto, The family home of local landowner and Anglo- near Montejaque, offers comfortable ‘casitas’ phile Juan Clavero, who has a splendid eye for and apartments at great prices. detail, it sits in a privileged position in the nearby If you fancy staying in a complete rural idyll, then Sierra de Salinas. a weekend at Los Castanos in Cartojima will blow You might also want to consider Molino del Pu- you away. This authentic hostel comes top of Trip ente, run by friendly English couple Ian and Advisor and it is not hard to see why.

Elaine Love, who also have one of the area’s best A little further away in Jimena you will find two restaurants. splendid places to stay.

A bit further away in Benaojan you must certainly If complete comfort is what you’re really after, consider incredible Molino del Santo, a classic look no further than the sumptuous Hostel Anon rural retreat, which has been serving the area for – a romantic getaway that always comes highly nearly three decades. recommended.

Run by English couple Pauline and Andy, the ho- Last, but certainly not least, if you are looking tel – number two in Andalucia, according to Trip for something even more rural then head to La Advisor - has the knack of keeping guests happy Vina de Linan, a luxury B&B sitting in wonderful with just the right mix of comfort, good food and surroundings in the countryside perfectly located character. near the Hozgarganta river.

Best of all, it counts on one of the best restaurants in Andalucia, run by its fantastic resident chef Gordon Brown.

Closer to Ronda, in the charming village of Arriate, you will find a number of great places to stay.

The first, Hotel Arriadh, has been providing weary travellers with lodgings with the most amazing views imaginable.

Run by friendly Peruvian Eduardo, you will feel like you are staying in someone’s home.

Also in the village is the excellent Hotel AUTHENTIC: Molino del Arco

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CHARACTER : Eduardo from Arriadh Hotel (left), Alcantarilla (above) and Diana at Los Castanos and Molino del Puente

PARADISE: The grounds at Molino del Santo

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Serrania de Ronda special

ONDA is, without a doubt, my favourite place to eat in Andalucia.

The town and nearby region offers an incredible range in both creativity and value and it is no surprise that nearly a dozen of the restaurants listed on the Olive Press’ fast-growing website Dining Secrets of Andalucia are in the Serrania de Ronda.

From the creativity of Tragatapas and Casa Santa Pola, to rural idylls Molino del Santo and Al Lago, there is so much on offer.

Add in the soulful, unpretentious Almocobar, historic Pedro Romero and the know-how of Pablo Piek at La Fuente and you have a potent mix.

And now, of course, you have supposedly Andalucia’s best

www.theolivepress.es

Best in Andalucia Dining Secrets of Andalucia editor Jon Clarke on why the Serrania de Ronda area has a dozen of the best restaurants in Andalucia

restaurant, according to Trip Advisor, in El Muelle, in Arriate.

This charming converted railway storeroom is well worth a journey alone, as many people have been doing over recent months all the way from Estepona and Marbella.

Run by talented Dutchman Frank Rottgering, it has truly come of age after just one year, offering a superb mix of local and international dishes.

All home cooked by a team led by the impressive Isa from nearby Alcala del Valle, there are not many places in Andalucia where you eat blinis with foie gras and a gazpacho made out of cherries. Well now you can have both.

Up in the heart of Ronda CHARM: Pedro Romero and (top) Frank at EL Muelle

there is a particularly good range of places to eat.

In particular in Calle Nueva you will find a series of excellent places, cheek by jowl and vying for your custom.

The best include the charming Casa Quino, a family-run joint,

Ronda has an incredible range of creativity and good value restaurants where its big boss Joaquin does a great job in the kitchen, producing a range of classic local dishes. A keen photographer, he also has the best col-

lection of old photos of Ronda.

Next door, the pair also have a new place Nueva 13 more geared towards tapas and wines and with a very different style.

On a more imaginative front you must try evocative Tragatapas, run by former Michelinstarred chef Benito Gomez, who trained at El Bulli among other notable spots.

Here, you can eat plenty of creative dishes made from seasonal produce, including mushrooms and game. He also purveys a fantastic sushi of tuna, with soya and wasabi.

Most exciting of all, is that one

A wealth of ingredients

The Serrania de Ronda has one of the richest diversities of food in Spain, writes El Bulli-trained chef Maria Terol (right)

T

HE traditional gastronomy of the Serrania de Ronda is very much entwined with its local ecosystems, cultures and weather.

It is also heavily influenced by the fact that its local population was for centuries very isolated from the rest of the country by nature of its roads and communications.

As a result its many towns and villages developed a subsistence model of agriculture, which involved growing the vast majority of its food in the area.

And because of its climate (it is one of the wettest places in Spain due to its location by the Sierra de Grazalema) and geography it has been blessed with an extraordinary range of high quality products, not found elsewhere.

As a result, there are more than 180 different species of mushrooms, which, when in season in autumn, in particular, are used in a variety of dishes.

Níscalos, yemas, chantarella, setas de cardo, colmenillas, boletos, they all have their own names, and they are mainly collected and offered to the many bars and restaurants.

Another fantastic local ingredient is goats cheese that come from its indigenous race of cabra payoya goats.

Then there is the fantastic arbequina olive oil, extraordinary ham products, much of it centering on Benaojan, as well as honey, wild vegetables, such as asparagus, and wine.

And don’t forget the walnuts (some being used for liquor, glace and conserves) and the famous chestnuts that come from the Genal Valley.

Through the winter you will be frequently offered all sorts of game from wild boar to venison and from mountain goat to partridge.

Even better, the local farmers and villagers grow numerous and varied types of vegetables and fruits. In particular the tomatoes are fantastic, as are the peppers, aubergines and potatoes.

There are various edible wild plants, such as ‘tagarninas’, and herbs that have a high nutritional and medical power. There are even edible flowers that I use in some of my dishes.

Finally, there is the now famous apple, the Pero de Ronda (or Dog of Ronda), which was rediscovered at Madrid’s famous Fusion food fair a few years ago.

This stunning, sweet, crispy fruit is only found in a few farms between Ronda and Arriate, but is making a comeback. Try and find one if you can.

My company Inspira Art Culinary is a catering service that offers typical dishes of the Serrania as well as paellas from my local region of Valencia.

In particular my menu ‘Por Soleares de Ronda’ represents a fusion between the old tradition and the new concepts of the culinary art.

Maria Terol, moved to Gaucin from Valencia, having trained at El Bulli and under Sergi Arola in Madrid. Her company Inspira organises events, tastings and teaching courses. Contact her on 676748201 or email terolmaria7@gmail.com

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MIX: Team at El Porton, Casa Quino and Nueva 13 owners, Benito at Tragatapas and Omar from Buenos Aires of his former proteges Pablo Ignacio at Casa Santa Pola, Piek, 23, has recently set up who certainly knows what he is next door with a restaurant La doing and is close to many of Fuente.

Spain’s best chefs.

In pole position opposite the The Catalan has worked around Parador, Pablo is honing some the country and is always up of the exciting skills he learnt for a bit of experimenting, and with Gomez, as well as recently he and his wife Felisa’s gorgevoted World Number One res- side restaurant is probably the taurant Celler most beautiful de Can Roca in in Ronda.

Catalunya.

For atmosphere Steeped in bullI tried one of it is hard to beat the best ajo Pedro Romero, fighting history, blanco soups opposite the here you will imaginable with bullring, where pineapple, coFelisa’s brothfind my favourite conut milk and ers have carved Ronda tapa miel de cana, a solid formula as well as a producing a great tapa of string of tradiduck breast on toast with red tional, but delicious dishes, in fruits and mint. particular the Rabo de Toro.

Even better was his confit of Then, let’s not forget the cod served with red chard charming El Porton – an instituleaves and a cherry tomato, red tion - run by friends Javier and pepper and onion ratatouille. Pepe for the past 40 years.

Super refreshing.

Steeped in bullfighting history, If anyone can match the quality here you will find my favourite of these guys it would be chef Ronda tapa, the wonderful

quails egg with ham on toast.

In terms of charm and consistent quality, you will rarely find anywhere better than Almocobar.

Sitting opposite the old Arabic gate near the old town it is an emblematic and extremely popular local restaurant, with certainly the town’s best wine list.

Run by a tight-knit team, it is the place to dine outdoors in summer and its owner Monolo is the most knowledgeable man around town when it comes to food.

Another excellent place to eat, just outside the town, is at Molino del Puente, where Ian Love has been winning plaudits for his tasty creations for many years now.

Set up with wife Elaine after a number of years on the coast, this is a great place to stay as well.

And yet there is more. In particular with the opening of a new vegetarian restaurant The

Best rural options ON a journey out of Ronda (or en route), you are spoilt for choice with a trio of emblematic places to eat.

Award-winning Molino del Santo, in Benaojan, is not just highly-rated on Trip Advisor, but in canny Scot Gordon Brown, (right) it has one of the best chefs in Andalucia.

The food is impeccable and the location on a shady riverside terrace is beyond charming.

Equally good – and creative to boot – is American Stefan Crites of Al Lago, (left) overlooking the lake in Zahara.

A massive supporter of local, seasonal ingredients, his restaurant has gone from strength to strength with help from the highly talented Mona. Conveniently you can now also stay the night with some lovely rooms upstairs.

Last, but not least, if it is authenticity you are after, you must head for the converted olive mill that is Molienda in Benalauria. One of Malaga’s pretty small villages, this is a true dining secret!

Spice Route.

The brainchild of urbane Mexican musician Cesar Hernandez, this is not only the Serrania’s only such joint, but one of the best in Andalucia.

Using fresh ingredients and a wealth of herbs, he is proving that you can eat good quality food without meat. A sweet gazpacho of red peppers was fantastic, as was his great value chili beans with rice for just € 6. Indeed, there is nothing here for more than €9, except a few bottles of well-sourced wines.

For international food, Ronda also has a friendly Argentinian Buenos Aires, run by characteristic Omar. It is an excellent spot for tapas, breakfast or just a pint to watch the UK football.

For more information and an excellent guide to Andalucia’s best restaurants visit www.diningsecretsofandalucia.com

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the olive press - October 2section - October 15 2013 45 45 The Olive Press fortnightly business taking a look at the Spanish economy and offering tips on how to save AND make money

Town halls on brink Over 500 towns are asking the government for a bailout as they face bankruptcy

MORE than 500 municipalities throughout Spain have all gone to the central government for hand indebted town in the country in Benalmadena, which has reported debts of €94million against outs. are on the brink of bankruptcy.

The towns, scattered throughout the country, Andalucia fares particularly badly with the most an annual income of just €64million euros.

Malaga meanwhile has debts of €719 million against an income of €556 million.

Madrid has a debt of €6,776million against €4,295million coming in.

Some towns around the country have come up with clever ways to continue paying their debts.

THE Andalucian town In Catalunya, Aguilar de of Cordoba has come Segarra (population: 250) up with a rival to Richhas a debt of over €2 milard Branson’s current TRIP IN lion, but due to a solar panel space programme. plant, it is able to service its If you want to go into SPACE: debt with earnings of over space for a fraction Bloon €500,000 a year. of the cost of the pro- needs posed commercial Efficiency spaceships being of- passenfered by Virgin then gers Town Halls that have implezero2infinity may be just mented energy efficient polwhat you are looking icies have already seen an for.

80% drop in electricity bills.

The Bloon is a pod- two crew can enjoy the The Catalan company flight in 2015, at a cost Measures have included retype space ship, which four-hour-flight that in charge of the mission of €110,000 per person. placing low-energy lamps, will be pulled through will take passengers to has so far carried out The cheapest seat on as well as saving more than the atmosphere to an the edge of the atmo- a series of successful the first Virgin space €1200 a year on rubbish altitude of 36 km by a sphere from its base in tests and hopes to hold flight is available at just collection by encouraging balloon. its first commercial over €200,000.

Cordoba. locals to use home compost Four passengers and heaps.

Mission Control Cordoba

Banking on a recovery SPAIN has bullishly ruled out tax increases as a way of beating the recession.

Instead, the government is pinning its hopes on a return to growth. The budget announcement revealed that the economy is expected to expand by 0.7% in 2014, with unemployment predicted to fall to 25.9%. It is also predicted that exports will continue to increase following a 5.7% rise last year. The announcement will have been watched closely as Spain is under pressure from Europe to bring it in line with EU deficit targets. Education and health were spared spending cuts, while research and development budgets are set to increase.

Business boost SMALL businesses in Spain are benefitting from the cheapest loans for two years.

Interest charges on loans of up to €1million averaged 5.4% in July compared to 6.5% a year ago.

The European Central Bank data is seen by many as being good news for the economy.

This is because lending to small and medium businesses is viewed as having a positive impact on local communities.

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Green shoots at last

But job boom won’t return until 2016, says Moody

SPAIN’S economy is coming out of recession ‘but remains in crisis’, according to prime minister Mariano Rajoy.

His announcement came as the country’s central bank revealed preliminary figures for the third quarter showed an increase in output of between 0.1% and 0.2%.

Rajoy said the budget – which was announced last week - would prudently raise the growth forecast for 2014 from 0.5% to 0.7% even though the consensus of analysis is of growth of around 1%.

He went on to say that the next big task is to achieve a vigorous recovery that creates jobs.

However, the unemployment rate is set to remain at 27.1% for 2014.

It dipped to 26.2% in the second quarter of

this year thanks to summer hiring. But now Autumn is back it will go up again.

Credit ratings agency Moody’s meanwhile agreed Spain is emerging from the recession, stating exports would drive the growth, but recovery was flimsy.

Zach Witton, research analyst at Moody’s, said: “The recovery will be weak as the boost to the economy from the pick up in exports will only be modest and fragile domestic demand will drag heavily on growth.”

The group forecast Spain’s economy would contract by more than 1% this year before expanding by 0.3% in 2014, and 0.8% the following year. It warned that the rate of growth would be insufficient to generate net job creation until 2016.

Beware cash scams!

FRAUD led to UK cardholders losing €355 million last year, according to banking industry estimates.

A third of that figure was due to cloning.

Criminals use fake card swipe machines, or modify cash machines to steal card information.

Identity theft - involving existing credit or debit card accounts - accounted for 66% of cases, accord-

ing to financial consultants Javelin Strategy and Research.

“We ask consumers if they’ve been the victim of fraud and sometimes they don’t know how they’ve become victimised,” said Nancy Ozawa, marketing manager for Javelin.

“They just know that they have.”

Vimi Gisby, a pensioner from Granada, had her card cloned while at the

By Alex Iszatt

Cajamar bank in Archidona.

“I had been to Archidona on Sept 2 and withdrew some cash from the machine,” she said.

“The following day when I checked my bank statement I noticed a £10 payment was made to UK O2 top up.

“As I do not use O2 I knew someone had got my debit card number and used it.

“I immediately called the appropriate number to cancel my card.

“I was then told an attempt was made in Archidona to withdraw €3,500.”

Authorities say gangs use highly sophisticated scanners that are usually undetectable to customers.

Moulded plastic or metal card reader simulators (see left) are placed over the bank’s equipment.

In many cases criminals use the same paint banks use, in order to blend their devices into the cash maBEWARE: Conmen use moulded metal on card readers chine.

How you can detect and avoid skimming 1. Inspect the card reader and the area near the PIN pad. Most skimming devices are fixed by Sellotape – pull at the card reader and keypad, if it moves, move on.

2. Be wary of who is around – someone could be reading your PIN, so always cover your numbers.

3. If your money hasn’t come out, it may have been taken by a simple distraction technique – a rolled up piece of card-

board designed to intercept between the cash point giving the funds and you taking them. Check when the door opens to see if there is something stuck in the machine.

4.

Keep an eye on your account if you suspect that you might have had your card skimmed. Check your account balance and report any suspicious activity immediately.

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Top Dollar

Road to Riches, by Richard Alexander

A

n active investment typically has a fund manager or team who are dedicated to achieving a number of stated objectives. They will be anticipating market trends and making their decisions based on research and knowledge, with a view to providing the best possible return within the risk profile and constraints of the fund.

Some actively managed funds failed to outperform their benchmark once all charges have been taken into account, and some argue index tracker funds offer better

DO

How to invest

Both active and passive investments have their merits value as a consequence. In some cases this may have been true but not always, particularly in volatile market conditions.

Passive funds are those which are designed simply to track an index. They are run by a programme that will follow the index, and will

Consider your objectives and time frames carefully

Understand your risk tolerance and make sure that your investments are in line with it Engage with an experienced and properly regulated financial adviser you can work with Get all advice in writing before making any decisions Understand what you are committing to Know what it will cost you by way of fees, charges and commissions Plan to review regularly – once as year is probably best Feel comfortable and confident with your decisions – if in doubt, don’t commit!

be just as efficient at tracking markets down as they are tracking them up.

Charges are typically m u c h lower as a conse-

DON’T Buy investment products piecemeal or “off the page”

quence and depending on what period of time you compare, they could appear to offer better value. At another time, however, and the reverse may be true!

Investors can also enlist the help of a discretionary fund manager (DFM) who will actively manage a personal portfolio of funds for you.

The DFM will structure a portfolio of funds, to support the aims and objectives of the individual, within an agreed risk tolerance.

That portfolio will include a range of active and passive funds, and managed properly, this type of active management should outperform the benchmark.

Historically, this type of management has only been possible and cost effective for larger amounts but there are now some very reasonable options for those investing a minimum €50,000.

Here are a few things to remember when considering investments – The Dos and Dont’s, if you like.

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

Assume all that you read in the paper or on the internet is relevant to you Rely on what your friends say they did as a solution for you Be persuaded by product salesmen that their product is just what you want–remember, square pegs do not fit into round holes!

Engage with unauthorised / unregulated advisers Be attracted by offers of high returns– if it looks too good to be true, it probably is!

Assume that a well known name means that they are right for you

Do anything you are not totally comfortable with

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AGONY ANT

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS ADDRESSED

Spanish visas and residency for investors T

HE Spanish government recently approved measures to allow foreign nationals who invest a minimum of €500,000 in a property to become permanent residents in Spain.

This new legislation, introduced under the Investors’ Support and Internationalisation Act, is also significant in other ways.

In particular, it makes life easier for foreign nationals who intend to carry out what is known as a ‘relevant investment’ in Spain.

The following are classified as such investments: • An investment of at least €2,000,000 in Spanish Government bonds.

• An investment of at least €1,000,000 in shares of Spanish companies.

• An investment of at least €1,000,000 with a Spanishbased bank or financial entity (basically, depositing that money in a savings or fixed deposit account).

• An investment of at least €500,000 in a Spanish property, per applicant, provided the first €500,000 of the property value is unencumbered (mortgage free).

• A business investment that is to be carried out in Spain and is deemed of public interest for which purpose, at least

one of the following conditions will be considered relevant: • a) jobs it will create b) socioeconomic impact in the geographical area where the activity is to be carried out and c) relevant contribution to technological or scientific innovation.

Investment by foreign companies will also qualify to- NEW RESIDENTS: Chinese wards residency provided it does not originate from an eficiary to reside permanently offshore tax haven, and that in Spain. the investor owns, directly or In addition to meeting the conindirectly, the majority of its ditions to qualify for the Invesvoting rights. tors’ Residency Visa, an appliThey must also have the right cant for an Investors’ Residento designate or remove the cy Permit will have to comply majority of the members of the with the following: board of directors.

The Act has also created differ- • Hold an Investors’ Residenent types of documents to en- cy Visa that is not overdue by ter and reside in Spain. more than 90 days over the exThese are the Residency Visa piration date. and the Residency Permit.

• Have travelled to Spain at The Residency Visa is valid least once during the validity of for up to one year, and the the Visa.

Residency Permit for up to • Prove that the investment two years, with the option of that enabled the applicant to extending it for a further two receive the Visa is still in place. years.

This would give a total of The act also allows them to befive years, four of which are come a Spanish citizen through deemed proper residency while this method, and has not modithe first is just the right to stay fied the two other main types of and live in Spain. residency permit applications, This is an important distinction which are: because five years of continued residency entitles the ben- • Non-Lucrative Residency Permit (Autorización de Residencia No-Lucrativa)

STERLING STUFF

• Self-EmployedWork and Residency Permit (Autorizacion de Residencia y Trabajo Por Cuenta Propia)

Germany is a powerhouse

T

he pound continues to put pressure on the euro, but the big news is that Angela Merkel, German chancellor has won her seat for a third term.

Merkel’s CDU party were just short of a full majority and their previous coalition partners were completely thumped to the point they didn’t even get a single seat in the Reichstag and so now there is quite a degree of uncertainty as the CDU seek a potential new coalition with someone else, the most likely candidate is the SPD though there are concerns they are hesitant to do this. Although seen as reinforcement of Merkel’s spending cuts policy being popular in Germany, peripheral EU countries like Greece groaned in unison as this was seen as a win for austerity.

This week GBP/EUR managed to hit the dizzy heights of 1.1980, helped partly by political issues in Italy and partly by UK house prices enjoying their most significant advance for six years in September.

Over the weekend five ministers from Silvio Berlusconi’s PDL party announced their resignations meaning the Italian coalition government could well be on the brink of collapse, potentially throwing the Eurozone’s third largest economy back into chaos. Although we are accustomed by now to the soap opera that is Italian politics, in the wake of Italian prime minister Enrico Letta’s recent comments that their growth estimates are “reasonable and achievable as long as there is political stability”, this latest twist in the plot could be the straw that breaks the camel´s back.

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

Can I apply if I already have an (unencumbered) property in Spain worth €500,000?

The Act does not include investors who already own a property in Spain although nothing stops them from selling it, re-buying and then applying for the Investors Residency Visa and further, the Investors Residency Permit.

People that comply with the other financial criteria (having cash deposits, shares etc. can apply).

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advertorial

Meet Wincham in Nerja and find out more about your personal Spanish Inheritance Tax (IHT) liabilities

S

PANISH Inheritance Tax (IHT) can be a confusing subject given the range of advice and “solutions” that are bandied about across Spain. Wincham has been assisting clients since 1994 to successfully and legally protect their loved ones from the huge burden that is IHT. Many Spanish property owners are sitting on a ticking IHT time bomb, unaware that when they purchase their “dream” property they could be creating a financial burden for their beneficiaries.

The surviving partner, or beneficiary, may be left with a tax bill exceeding the value of the entire Spanish asset being inherited, in addition to the cost of obtaining probate in more than one country.

The Wincham solution can cost less than most probate cases and is a simple, legal and effective way to safeguard your Spanish property and the inheritance of your beneficiaries. Whether you currently own a property in Spain, are about to purchase one, or own a property in an offshore or Spanish limited company (SL company), we can help you transfer your property into your own UK limited company to avoid inheritance tax in Spain.

During October we will be hosting a three-day event in Nerja, Malaga, during which you can have complimentary one-to-one appointments with our consultants, discuss your individual circumstances and take away your free personalised IHT illustration.

David Rogers Tel. 0034 622 345 558

Mark Bailey Tel. 0077 02 192 797

Appointments available between 10.00am to 5.00pm The Parador Hotel, Nerja, Malaga Wednesday 16th October to Friday 18th October To find out more about the implications of Spanish IHT, the likely liabilities of your beneficiaries, and the legal steps you can take to avoid them please contact Wincham on 0034 965 830 991 / +44 (0)1260 299 700 or alternatively visit www.winchamiht.com to make your appointment to meet Mark or David.

Wincham International is also able to assist you with legal, accountancy, will writing and probate issues in both the UK and Spain.

30 years on the coast TOP interior design firm Roche Bobois marked the 30th anniversary of its Marbella store with a well attended cocktail party.

Gilles Bonan, Roche Bobois director, flew in from Paris especially for the event, during which the company took the opportunity to showcase its new autumn/winter collection.

Gilles also outlined the future plans for the company, which included expanding into the emerging markets of South America and the Middle East.

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Property

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Getting the most for your money

The Junta issues advice on how to avoid buying an illegal home A RECENT study concluded that there are more than 300,000 illegal properties in Andalucia.

Properties that do not pass inspection, or don’t have the correct licenses will be torn down over the next few years.

The Association of Property and Mercantile Registrars of Spain, together with the Junta, has provided the following advice to ensure expats property isn’t next on the demolition list. Do not

sign any agreements or hand over any money until you have checked all these things: 1. Be sure the promoter you are signing the agreement with exists and the person who is going to sign on the promoter’s behalf has the legal power to do so. For this information, check the Mercantile Registry, where the company ought to be registered. www.registradores.org 2. Be sure the planned building has been authorised by the city govern-

ment through the correct licensing procedure.

You can check this at the Property Registry or City Hall.

3. Demand proof that the money has been deposited in a special account that can only be drawn on for the construction project.

4. Do your research and avoid the pitfalls.

For a full guide visit www.gov.uk/how-tobuy-property-in-spain

The Border Effect Property insider Bob Callan looks at how the Gibraltar dispute has affected the property market

T

The Property Insider

HE ongoing tension between Gibraltar and Spain continues to create headlines around the

world.

And it seems that Madrid is intent on portraying the Rock as a murky tax haven where companies can launder money at their leisure.

The plans by the Spanish tax office to investigate the financial affairs of Gibraltarians, including Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, has understandably caused a lot of consternation.

Forced to split ... the house A JUDGE in Sevilla has or-

dered a divorcing couple to split their 2,700-squarefoot apartment into two separate living spaces.

The judge said that the living arrangement was the lesser of two evils given the pair’s current financial situation and that the set-up would be good for the couple’s two daughters, ages six and seven.

HUGE REDUCTION: Luxury villa But that sense of unease has also affected the property market, with prices suffering as a result.

We have a luxury four-bedroom villa on our books, owned by a Gibraltar company, which has been hugely reduced recently in an effort to force a quick sale.

It has dropped from €2 million to €750,000 – a reduction of

well over 50%.

It has fantastic mountain and sea views, a four-car garage, swimming pool, jacuzzi, home cinema and is close to all the amenities of Estepona.

In the next issue I’ll explain exactly why the property has been so drastically reduced, but for further information email: info@theolivepress.es

Property

www.theolivepress.es

British the best buyers BRITS have been the dominant players in the property market so far this year, it has emerged.

Figures show that British buyers account for 22.5 percent of foreign investors in Spain this year.

Meanwhile, Scandinavians made up 17 per cent and Russians accounted for 13 per cent of sales.

Spain is looking at introducing new laws which will offer residency — with strings attached — to non-European Union foreigners who spend over €500,000 on a property in the country. See Antonio Flores on page 50.

Andalucia tops ANDALUCIA is the most popular holiday destination in Spain, according a recent survey.

The study carried out by Spain-holiday.com, found that Andalucia was the most requested region, with a 42.1% demand for rentals, followed by Valencia with 24% and Catalonia with 23%.

European holidaymakers, and especially British and French tourists - accounted for 30% of all Spanish requests.

Apartments and villas were most in-demand.

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You must help!

Coastal Law victims could be set for a payout after EU helps with compensation battle

By Claire Wilson THE EU is appealing to Spain to offer compensation to any victims of the Spanish Coastal Law. The European Parliament’s Petitions Committee has called for a fair compensation system to be put into place to benefit those whose houses were demolished or expropriated under the old law.

Housing hot spot SPAIN tops the list of favourite places Brits want to invest in.

According to overseas mortgage specialists Conti, 42% of prospective buyers in 2013 have an interest in Spain, followed by France at 36%.

That gap has started to widen, with France dropping 2% on this time last year and Spain rising 3%. Spain accounted for more enquiries than France in May, June and July.

Sales turn

Protected zone The move is a reaction to the numerous complaints it has received from those affected over the past decade.

In a report it also stated protected coastal zones should not be used to build new property.

It called for inland data and property registers to be updated so all owners

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UNDER DEMOLITION: A coastal home built in a protected zone are properly informed of their rights and possibilities of justice.

The move was approved

by 16 votes to three.

The news comes a couple of months after a revised Coastal Act was approved

and passed into law, protecting both existing maritime boundaries and properties built before 1988.

HOUSE prices are starting to stabilize this year.

With a fall of only 0.8 per cent in the second quarter of 2013, it may be a sign that the fiveyear property bust is turning a corner.

Government statistics show that it is the smallest drop since the fourth quarter of 2010.

Since mid-2007, the cost of property across Spain, including new and second-hand housing, has dropped by 36.7 per cent, INE figures showed.

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

51 54 the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013 38 54

n Buen

www.theolivepress.es 35

amino

A new sales fall

ON THE LOT: Cars for sale

CAR sales dropped by 18.3 per cent year-onyear in August after rising by almost 15 per cent in July.

Car manufacturers’ association Anfac found that just 38,872 cars were sold in August.

However, the hope is that a government subsidy scheme for the purchase of new vehicles would mean a probable rise in September.

ANGRY: Impatient boys

Beware of angry young drivers

FINES ON THE GO: Police are setting up speed drives

Dark ages Police are using an old law to fine motorists for going just 3% over the speed limit

POLICE are using a 20-year-old law to illegally fine thousands of drivers.

Since 2010 motorists have been allowed to go 10% over the speed limit and not get fined.

However, it has emerged that police are fining thousands of motorists each month, under an older law from 1992, which only permits a 3% margin of error.

The Spanish Automobile Association (AEA) has now slammed the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) for using the obsolete law and called for action to be taken.

By Alex Iszatt the officer’s word is considered sound evidence.

The onus is on the driver to prove he or she did not

commit the offence.

Officers are not even obliged to stop the driver to inform that he/she has been caught.

The fine can now simply be sent in the post.

DRIVERS under the age of 30 are more likely to get impatient on the roads.

A study by Valencia Polytechnic has revealed that the behaviour is more common in men than woman.

The research observed hundreds of drivers on the roads and found that the younger group becomes angry quicker than older drivers and becomes more likely to overtake slow-moving drivers.

When overtaking, they spend a whole second less in the ‘fast lane’ than drivers of 31 years or more – 6.2 seconds as opposed to 7.2 seconds.

When the driver has had to wait more than 25 seconds to be able to overtake, on singlecarriageway roads, overtaking manoeuvre time reduces by a further second.

Caught

The law, known as the UNE

26444, ceased to be effective when automobile manufacturers proved that most modern cars are only able to register a car’s speed within a 3% margin.

Currently police are not obliged to provide proof and

Recession taking toll TRAFFIC on Spain’s toll roads has fallen by 35% since the onset of the recession.

The drop has outstripped that of GDP over the same period according to Abertis, the infrastructure company which operates more than half of the country’s toll roads.

In 2013 alone, there has been a 9% fall in vehicles using the country’s toll roads. Abertis, whose portfolio includes the AP-7 between Sevilla and Cadiz, attributes the decline to ongoing economic woe, adverse weather conditions at the start of the year, and the removal of the

Car fixing probe SPAIN’S National Competition commissioner, CNC, is investigating possible price-fixing by some of the world’s largest car firms.

Volkswagen, Renault, Peugeot, Toyota, General Motors and Ford are in the firing line after sharing market-sensitive information to set prices and service contracts.

“These are considered very serious infringements that could lead to fines of up to 10 per cent of total annual turnover” the CNC said in a statement.

7% toll subsidy which applied until September 2012.

The group said it was difficult to predict whether or not there would be an uptick in the final months of the year. It remained optimistic, particularly as there has been an increase in the number of lorries and haulage vehicles using the roads over the past month.

OP Columnists A rock chick ‘til B my wings drop off!

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013 55 Belinda Beckett, aka 55 Mistress of Sizzle, faces a difficult task.

www.theolivepress.es

Belinda Beckett (ala Mistress of Sizzle) gets her 10ccs-worth at Gibraltar Music Festival

efore you ask me, yes I did!

I ambushed 10cc backstage at the Gibraltar Music Festival.

Real rock stars smooching up to the Mistress of Sizzle.

Wowser!

Just for a photograph, of course.

It was on my ‘Beckett List’ and all above board - I had a press pass.

But before you ask me, no I didn’t!

Get a scoop, that is.

The boys were flying with Mandy (or whatever the chief stewardess was called on their trip back to London).

And before you say it, yes, I know!

I’m no spring rock chick. So? Graham Gouldman - the only ‘original’ band member in 10cc’s current line-up - is nine years older than me.

From the first twangs of Wall Street Shuffle (about all some of us can manage, these days) it was pure nostalgia – the day Glastonbury came

ROCKERS: One off the Beckett ‘list’ to Gibraltar, without the mud and loose morals: 18 acts, two stages and 12 hours of non-stop entertainment.

For €50 (or zero if you were under 12) it was a no-brainer.

If you didn’t go you need your

head examined.

I saw one or two groups of ‘teeny-boppers’ with looks on their faces that said: “What is this music?”

But just because the lyrics rhyme and mention rubber

bullets and love rather than rubbers and sex, it doesn’t mean we’re ingénues.

Go ask your grandad how 10cc really got its name (I’d better not tell you here, this is a family newspaper.)

The season of mists and free parking spaces

A

utumn is upon us and it is, as the poet Keats so memorably described it ‘The season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’... as well as being the season of once again being able to find somewhere to park the car.

It’s the time of year that those of us who live here all year round get to breathe a huge sigh of relief as we pack the last of the summer guests off and can finally unwind.

You can visit your favourite restaurant without having to make a reservation and get a drink in your favourite bar without having to queue for 30 minutes.

And the other sure sign that autumn is here is that at the first sign of rain, everyone starts complaining about the weather and in another few weeks ‘que calor’ will have been replaced with ‘que frio!’

No little mites for me!

Up at the Casita I had a friend visit for a couple of days last week. He’s a bit of an Action Man, having trained Mel Gibson for Braveheart, so we decided to do a bit of hairychested macho activities.

The fiend designed a workout session for my legs that still has me walking like John Wayne (ED: I can confirm that) as I write this, but worse was to come when we went kayaking.

At the lake there are rocks that you can dive off, with a drop of about 15 feet to the water. My first dive was fine, but fatally on my second dive

BRAVEHEART: Giles took damage to his scotch eggs I showed off and didn’t get my legs closed in time. Thankfully my howl of pain was muffled by the water.

I’ve never had any particular

paternal urges, but as I applied a bag of ice to the affected area I realised that the possibility of fatherhood was now even further away.

Even Blurrier Lines...

TWERK OUT: Robin Thicke and Miley at VMAS

As some of you may know I present a radio show, and often fill in when the proper presenters take holidays.

Which is how I ended up with the Breakfast Show a few weeks ago. All was going well until I played Blurred Lines, one of the hits of the summer.

Now, I haven’t really listened to the lyrics and this was the song that Miley

Cyrus infamously ‘twerked’ to.

The next morning I had emails asking if the song was suitable for that time in the morning, and claiming that I was corrupting the nation’s youth over their cornflakes.

‘Job done’ I thought, as I pulled out a Zappa album.

And just for the record, this newspaper encourages responsible twerking...

morning, no sweat.

These days I break out just putting on a pair of tights, requiring adoption of the foetal position.

Who was it that said ‘the ageing process is not great past 50, unless you are a cheese’?

Perhaps it’s a Woodstock The worst of it all is that, on Generation thing (a bit before the inside, we baby boomers my time, she smirked) but we old rockers were rolling, still feel like spring chickens, shaking the booties we used even if the younger generato have and casting caution tion would classify us as old fowl. and bingo wings to the wind.

Sadly, it doesn’t Rock on man! necessarily folLife is Minestro‘The ageing low that we sudne and age is a denly start fanprocess is not state of mind! …It’s also a cying wrinkly, great past 50, state of body balding old men, and mine unless you are a even if it’s all wasn’t in great we attract these cheese’ shape, the foldays. lowing morning.

I used to think The things we Mark King of Level 42 was redo for love of a good ‘twerk’, ally hot until I saw him in the as they call it these days.

I used to be able to groove all flesh… sadly, he’s more of a night (as we used to call it) Level 42+ these days. and perform a full lotus while But to hell with it, he still standing on my head next slaps a mean bass guitar.

Some people give in to the arrival of old age gracefully and take up knitting, bingo and Coronation Street.

Not this rock chick. She’s gonna be sashayin’ to Sex Machine until her body parts go rusty and doin’ the funky chicken ‘til her wings drop off!

OP Columnists

56 56 the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

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Swallowing the pill

I

n this day of modern medicine, we find pills and potions to remedy nearly any condition.

And many pensioners, unhappy with their health or appearance, venture into the realm of ‘natural’ herbal supplements to solve their problems.

Many old-time natural remedies are valuable and safe to use, but increasingly there are reports of supplements causing health risks rather than curing a condition.

Juliet Hambro asks are herbal supplements safe?

What are the Risks?

The main problem with using over the counter natural health supplements is that they are not required to be inspected for quality, strength and content.

You may take one batch and have no adverse affects, while another may harm you.

In addition, some supplements make exaggerated claims that are either inaccurate or outright fraudulent.

And finally, the supplement

There are 72 men for every 100 women in the age group ‘above 65 years’ and there are 45 men per 100 women in the age group ‘above 85 years.’

Granny Fact

may actually do you harm— cause heart attack or stroke, damage liver or kidneys, cause any number of side effects from hair loss to jaundice, to loss of finger or toenails, to di-

arrhoea, joint pain and breathing problems.

Some of these conditions may be permanent, continuing even after the patient stops taking the supplement.

While supplements are produced all over the world, China has the worst reputation for making and marketing contaminated products.

In general, it is wise to look for Food Standards Agency, the medicine and healthcare products regulatory agency, or other formal approval of safety such as the seal of approval given by the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, which tracks complaints, side effects, and deaths from product use.

The products most often causing health risks and promising much more than they can achieve are those offered in the areas of weight loss, sexual enhancement and body building.

In these products you are much more likely to find huge claims that are not met, dangerous ingredients that are not on the labels and experience unwanted side effects.

Case Examples In recent years the product Ephedra for weight loss has been taken off the market.

There were reports of thousands of adverse reactions to the drug.

Also the weight loss product Hydroxycut was proven to cause hepatitis and jaundice in users.

One of the problems with ridding the market of such products is that the companies can reformulate the product, changing the ingredients slight-

Granny Quote An older couple has invited another older couple over for dinner.

While the women are in the kitchen the men are talking. One man says he and his wife are always looking for good restaurants. The other man replies that he and his wife just ate in a good restaurant last week.

“What was the name of it?” asks the man. “Oh, gosh, let’s see...um... what’s the name of that flower that’s red...and has thorns?”

“A rose?”

“Yes that’s it!

- Rose!

What’s the name of that restaurant we ate at last week?”

ly and then reintroduce them on the market with no oversight or testing.

Some of the supplements that seem to be safe to use include calcium, Vitamin D, cranberry, fish oil, glucosamine and St. John’s Wort. A list known as the ‘dirty dozen’, which should be avoided includes aconite, bitter orange, chaparral, colloidal silver, coltsfoot, comfrey, country mallow, germanium, greater celandine, kava, lobelia and yohimbe. If you do decide to take a supplement, be sure to speak with your doctor first.

Do a little research and check

with governing agencies in your area to be sure the product is safe.

Then monitor your health closely.

Side effects may appear slowly over time or come on suddenly.

What are the raw ingredients in the product?

Are there agencies that have tested the product?

Are there any reports of adverse reactions and what are they?

Products untested before sale have been shown to have as much as 200 times the listed strength and have proved to

Safety tips Be especially careful in choosing products for weight loss, sexual performance or body building.

Don’t assume ‘more is better’. Always follow correct dosage of a given product.

Report any adverse reactions to your doctor immediately.

Recognise exaggerated claims.

Research a product online if possible, looking for any adverse reports or scams.

Choose USP or other agencies verification of quality screening.

We all want to feel well and live active senior lives.

But great care must be given to safety when it comes to putting drugs or herbal supplements into our bodies. Just as we monitor the interaction of our prescription drugs, we must also monitor even more carefully the supplements we use to achieve optimal health.

www.askgranny.com is a unique website and resource for grandparents and senior citizens worldwide created by Granny Juliet and provides useful information on a number of topics.

www.theolivepress.es

GOLF In the swing of it

Richard grabs record victory

A BRITISH expat has secured a record-breaking victory at a golf tournament in Almeria.

Richard Swaine claimed a narrow one point victory at the Forum Golf Society Championship at Aguilon.

Fellow expat Fran Elam was second after the pair could only be split using the countback rule.

The nail-biting finale following a tight opening day at the Valle del Este course.

Final scores: 1. Richard Swaine 75 points 2. Fran Elam 75 points 3. Peter Tinsley 68 points 4. Terry Moore 66 points For details of upcoming fixtures contact Phil Elam on 666 847 840 or visit www. forumgolfsociety.webs.com

Under fire A GOLF club on the Costa del Sol could face a hefty fine after almost causing a forest fire.

Firefighters spent several hours putting out the blaze at Santana Golf Club, after groundsmen ignited a pile of grass cuttings.

Witnesses had reported seeing a huge column of smoke in the area.

the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013

57 57

Golf brings friends together FORMER President George W Bush claims that bonds formed on the fairways blossom into friendships. The George W. Bush Institute sponsors the annual tournament at Las Colinas Country Club, Texas, and its only purpose is to give golfers a

chance to get together.

Bush believes that every person should take the time to get on the golf course and where better to enjoy teeing off then Andalucia.

There are 120 golf courses, and Andalucia is Eu-

rope’s leading golf tourist destination due to the quality of its courses located in privileged areas, with beautiful landscapes and near idyllic beaches.

Beginners, amateurs and professionals alike can enjoy these courses.

By hook or by crook

Shepherd wins right to protect land from becoming a golf resort

AN illiterate Spanish shepherd has won a 10-year legal battle against the developers of a luxury golf resort.

Pascual Carrión, 60, from Murcia, turned down nearly €3 million in compensation in order to protect his land.

The project included plans for two golf courses and 15,000 homes.

But Murcia Crown Court backed the farmer, who insisted his herd of 300 sheep and goats were more important.

The developer has since gone into pre-bankruptcy proceedings, while investors have lost thousands of euros.

VICTORIOUS: Pascual

Success on the Green WINNING TEAM: ‘The Fore Tees THE fifth annual Morrison’s Charity Golf Day in aid of Save the Children took place on Sunday September 29 at La Canada golf club, Sotogrande.

Sponsored by Techtrolec, the event raised over £12,000 for charity.

Winners of the day, with a magnificent 48 points was the ‘’Fore Tees’’, (a reference to the age they will all be hitting this year) They were each presented with a beautiful crystal tro-

Defying the recession

GOOD OPTION: Golf course homes

GOLF property sales in Spain have increased by almost threequarters over the past 12 months.

The latest figures from Taylor Wimpey España showed a sales surge of 74% in Mallorca, which boasts 24 of the most luxurious golf courses in Europe.

The Spanish property builder also reported an 8% increase in golf property sales in mainland Spain between mid-2012 and mid-2013, and said demand for these assets had remained resil-

ient despite the turmoil in the wider real estate market.

Marc Pritchard, sales and marketing director for the group, said: “Spain is one of the biggest golf locations in the world; it’s certainly the most popular European golf destination and anyone thinking of buying a golf property in Spain would definitely be making a wise move.

“Golf properties are a good investment as they can generate income throughout the year.”

phy, green fees for La Canada and golf caps.

A spokesperson for Morrison’s said, “We would like to thank the 30 companies and many individuals who supported the event. Their sponsorship, donations and

expertise make this occasion the success it is.”

Morrison’s bucket collectors in Gibraltar also raised more than £14,000 over the same weekend. Further pictures of the day are available on Techtrolec’s Facebook page.

58 the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013 58

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FOOD & DRINK 61 the olive press - October 2 - October 15 2013 61 of ANDALUCIA.com with DINING SECRETS

A new generation of drinkers throughout the UK and America is embracing Andalucia’s finest liquid export, discovers Alex Iszatt

C

OULD the impossible finally be happening?

Could sherry once again be coming into fashion?

Well, according to recent research, your granny’s favourite tipple is finally seeing a renaissance.

After decades in decline, a new generation of aficionados is emerging in both northern Europe and across the pond in the US. An increase in popularity among drinkers in their 20s and 30s in particular has led some to predict a bright future for the wine, that is produced in Jerez, one of Andalucia’s poorest cities.

According to trade analysts Nielsen, more than a fifth of sherry sales worldwide (21 per cent) is accounted for by the 25-44 age group and all but 29 per cent is bought by the under 65s.

The trend has been noted particularly in America, where sherry exporter De Maisons, claims sales of the fortified wine have risen by 80% in just one year.

“There’s been renewed interest in sherry, that’s for sure,”

XXXXX XXXXX

Great sherry renaissance

says Gil Avital, wine director at Tertulia, a Spanish restaurant in New York.

“We’re seeing an openness to try different sherries, especially among customers in their 20s and 30s, and that’s refreshing.

“Still, the majority of our guests need guidance when selecting a sherry to go with what they’re eating.”

In London a string of new sherry bars have opened up over the last year, including Bar Pepito – a tiny slice of Andalucia in King’s Cross, backed

by González Byass – which opened in 2010.

Pioneering Pepito was the litmus test and its success

TRENDY: Bar Pepito

The Olive Press takes a look at five of the most popular sherries on offer: Fino

The driest, most saline style of sherry, it’s generally made from high-acid palomino grapes grown in chalky white soils called albariza.

Finos are tank-fermented white wines that spend their entire fortified existence under a blanket of yeast called flor, which protects the product from oxidation. Finos usually contain 15–16% alcohol, are best served well chilled. Recommendation: González Byass NV Tio Pepe en Rama

Manzanilla

This is produced in the coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Manzanillas, like finos, incorporate the same winemaking and aging-under-flor techniques, which preserve freshness and promote salinity.

Recommendation: Equipo Navazos NV La Bota de Manzanilla 42

Amontillado

Amontillados take on a brown hue, due to extended contact with air inside the solera barrels.

Recommendation: Bodegas Dios Baco S.L. NV 20 Yr. Baco Imperial Amontillado

Oloroso

Whereas amontillado is a sherry in which the flor breaks up naturally, an oloroso sees the cellar master intentionally destroy the flor to promote oxidation. Olorosos can be sweet or dry in style, depending on whether the wine includes moscatel grapes (sweet), or is made strictly from palomino grapes (dry).

Recommendation: Gutiérrez-Colosía NV Sangre y Trabajadero

Cream

Sweet sherries come in a multitude of forms and quality levels, from your basic cream sherry, more or less an oloroso with sweet grapes like Pedro Ximénez or moscatel blended in, to complex varietal PX and moscatel-based sherries, in which freshly picked grapes are sun-dried to concentrate sugars and flavours. These can be dark, unctuous wines with viscosity akin to car oil.

Recommendation: Valdespino NV El Candado Pedro Ximénez

Sherry cocktails get in the mix Butchertown Cocktail 2 ounces rye whiskey ¾ ounce amontillado sherry ¼ ounce orange liqueur, such as Cointreau 2 dashes orange bitters Fat strip of orange peel, for garnish Combine ingredients (except garnish) over a large chunk of ice in a rocks glass and stir.

Twist orange peel over the top of the drink to release oils from the skin, then use the peel to garnish.

Fino Swizzle ¾ ounce grenadine ½ ounce ruby Port ½ ounce Cognac ¼ ounce fresh lemon juice 2 ounces fino sherry 5 dashes Fee Brothers Whiskey Barrel bitters Mint sprig, for garnish Fill a highball glass one-third with pellet or crushed ice.

Add the grenadine, port, cognac and lemon juice, and mix the ingredients with a swizzle stick (or long spoon).

Pack the remainder of the glass with ice, then add the sherry.

Swizzle again.

Pack the glass with ice until full, then top with the bitters.

Garnish with mint sprig and serve with a straw.

Parker’s Top Trio THREE sherries have been given 100/100 by Robert Parker, the most influential wine critic in the world: Barbadillo Reliquia Palo Cortado, a dry sherry from 1850.

From €250/bottle Toro Albalá Don PX Convento Selección 1946, a Pedro Ximénez wine that is actually from the Montilla-Moriles region, in Cordoba. From €120/bottle Valdespino Moscatel Toneles, 80 to 100 year old Moscatel, costing over €100 for a small 37,5 cl bottle. seems to have spurred others to follow. The recent sherry boom has profited from London’s exploding tapas scene, fuelled by an insatiable appetite for sharing plates.

Given that sherry hasn’t been truly fashionable since the late 1700s, this is an amazing turnaround.

It’s about time. Sherry is definitely one of the world’s great wines. It’s also, without a doubt, the most underrated.

People tend to think of it as creamy and sweet, but in fact, most good sherries are dry even extremely dry - and their savoury flavors make them extraordinary partners for all kinds of food.

Sherry starts life like any other wine, as fermented grape juice.

But after that, the winemaker

increases its alcoholic strength by adding a small amount of grape brandy and setting it down one of two paths. Sherries that are ‘biologically aged’, which include the light-bodied, pale yellow manzanillas and finos, are fortified to about 15% alcohol.

As they age in barrels, in a system called the ‘solera system’ a layer of yeast called flor begins to grow on the surface of the wine.

Over time, the flor protects the wine from oxidation and imparts a distinctive, salineherbal aroma and flavor.

Some are aged for 20 years or more and can produce wines, that in the view of world recognised wine critic Robert Parker even deserve full marks, 100 out of 100. (See above).

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

Back from the grave

Expat begins to transcribe secret civil war recipes found after excavation on finca A SECRET stash of recipes dating back to the Spanish Civil War has been uncovered.

The books containing 2,668 handwritten recipes were discovered during the renovation of Finca Torrecillas in Corvera, Asturias.

Each notebook was full of meticulous handwriting, with different colour pencils used for headings and titles.

By Alex Iszatt The books had been squirreled away by Maria Luisa, the current owner’s grandmother, and were thought to be written by her mother Isabel Estremera, who cooked in the finca from 1930-1945.

The 17th century Finca once fed some of the weary soldiers of the civil war through-

Mc image change Fed, watered... and pampered GUESTS were fed, watered and pampered at La Sala restaurant as part of the Macmillan World’s Largest Coffee Morning.

Punters had a series of mini beauty treatments, care of new salon Golden Tarts, which included threading, manicures and makeovers, while they had a cup of coffee.

The Meringue Shop also touted their brightly-coloured wares, donating their profits to the Macmillan and Cudeca charities.

Ian Radford, Sala Group chairman, said: “We wanted to take part in the event, and being in Spain decided to give something back to the local cancer charity Cudeca, as they have supported and cared for so many people on the coast.”

McDONALD’S is to stop promoting fizzy drinks in Spain as it looks to shake off a reputation for unhealthy meals. The fast food chain will only list water, milk and juice as drink options on its children’s menu, but will continue to offer carbonated options. Food packaging will also be changed to encourage children to eat more fruit and vegetables.

The move comes following pressure from a health group funded by Bill Clinton’s Clinton Foundation.

o u t the Franco-era and was occasionally used as a boarding house.

The hidden recipes hark back to a simpler time, when ingredients were rare.

Many of the ingredients in the book would have been hard to find at the time due to rationing, suggesting they may have been obtained on the black market.

The recipes are now being transcribed by local author, Birmingham born Debbie Jenkins, with a view to publishing them as a recipe book.

Second home of tapas BRITONS are being asked to vote for their favourite tapas restaurant.

The competition, being organised by Alhambra beer, has given UK Hispanophiles until October 12 to make their selection.

A trio of Bristol restaurants, including The Olive Shed, La Tomatina, and El Puerto, are among the competition’s front runners so far.

All voters are being entered into a monthly draw to win a £100 restaurant voucher.

Visit www.facebook.com/CervezasAlhambraUK for more information.

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FINAL WORDS

Squatter’s rights ANDALUCIA has approved a law which allows empty houses to be used as temporary homes. The new ruling substitutes the anti-eviction decree which was challenged in Madrid.

Tax break Princess Cristina is reported to have claimed the cost of her Barcelona mansion and a lavish birthday party for one of her children against tax.

Her husband is currently under investigation for embezzlement.

the FREE

Covering Andalucia in 2013 with over 200,000 papers (130,000 digital) and around 220,000 visits to the website each month… The Olive Press just keeps growing!

olive press Not so Speedy Gonzales

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October 2

Africa comes to Marbs THE Ivory Coast national U-17 team has set up a training camp in Marbella, to prepare for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next month.

Les Elephanteaux, the African champions, are spending 10 days in the town prior to the championships which run from October 17 to November 8.

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Spanish hamster undertakes a careful kilometre hill-climb in a 15 tonne truck A SPANISH hamster has proved himself as a genuine Stirling Moss.

The 175 gramme rodent Charlie ably guided a 15

By Alex Iszatt tonne truck around a quarry in Galicia.

In the stunt, undertaken

near the city of Ourense, Spain, the hamster is filmed driving the lorry up a hill around a series of bends in a specially-adapted cage

Delight through distress

Rent robbery President of Valencia Alberto Fabra claimed €788 a month for rent on a Valencia property despite living in Castellon.

Sources say he used the money to pay for occasional hotel stays while working late hours.

October 16, 2013

IT has been a traumatic decade for the Priors, who had their house knocked down by developers in Almeria five years ago.

But incredibly Len and Helen Prior, who have been living in their garage ever since, have just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by friends and neighbours.

That’s a very (big) fine Messi DESPITE earning millions he has made little difference to the tax authorities.

But that could now be about to change for Barcelona star Lionel Messi.

The four time World Player of the Year and his father Jorge have appeared in court accused of defrauding the authorities of more than 4m euros.

The pair are suspected of using companies abroad to sell the rights to use Messi’s image. The footballer has contracts with companies including Banco Sabadell, Danone, Adidas, Pepsi-Cola, Proctor and Gamble, and the Kuwait Food Company.

Both Messi and his father both deny the allegations, which date back to 2007-09.

UNAWARE: Messi’s new son

attached to the steering wheel.

An experienced stunt driver handled the accelerator and brakes while getting the hamster to steer in the right direction by tempting him with a carrot.

The film shows how the truck gently and safely makes its way up a twisting, narrow hilly track in the quarry.

Viral

“I can assure you that this is for real – the hamster really can steer the truck,” says Sten Ragnhult, who together with his colleague, Jan-Inge Svensson, was on site in Spain during the test.

The ‘The Hamster Stunt’ video has now unsurprisingly gone viral.

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Go easy on the throttle!

TWO driving students were left stunned when their instructor began strangling the examiner.

The incident, in Granada, happened after the instructor refused to install the ‘sound and light radar’ - used by the instructor to hit the dual controls to prevent an accident.

As the examiner got out of the vehicle, to abandon the test, the instructor grabbed his neck and witnesses heard him utter death threats.

One of the pupils pulled the instructor off the examiner. But, as the examiner tried to run away the instructor shrugged off the young boy and ran after his target. He was later arested.

Lost two million?

AN American tourist left his wallet, with a cheque for two million US dollars, on a train destined for Madrid.

A maintenance worker found the brown leather wallet when he went to discover why the doors of the Line 5 train wouldn’t close.

The wallet got trapped in the shaft where the sliding door was fitted.

He checked the contents of the wallet to try to find out whom it belonged to and discovered a driving licence, several credit cards and a cheque for two million dollars, all in the name of a man from California.

The police are currently trying to find the owner.