has dismantled part of a criminal organisation dedicated to the distribution of cocaine in various parts of Spain arresting three more suspects in the towns of Estepona and Albacete The investigation began at the beginning of 2024 when a man was detected transporting drugs from the Pontevedra and Madrid areas to Ferrol supplying various places located in the town of Narón (La Coruña) This individual was arrested last December in the town of As Pontes (La Coruña) when he was transporting two kilos of cocaine from Madrid to Ferrol Subsequent searches yielded ten kilograms of hashish as well as small quantities of MDMA or heroin it was possible to identify the head of the organisation He was planning the meetings between distributors and clients from prison where he is serving a sentence for other crimes by using the services of another member who was at liberty Within the network of distributors was an individual based in Albacete who had met the leader of the organisation in prison who was being investigated by officers from Albacete's narcotics unit was transporting large quantities of cocaine to the capital of La Mancha and then distributing it to other local traffickers In February the National Police arrested this person and his partner who were caught transporting one kilogram of cocaine that they had acquired in Madrid two hand-guns and various tools of the narcotics trade were found A man from Ferrol was also arrested in the town of Estepona It is alleged that he acted as an intermediary for the acquisition of the drugs Comentar es una ventaja exclusiva para registrados Mission Statement: to assist the integration of foreign residents living in Spain and this is never more accurate than when you establish yourself as a foreign resident in a new country Being able to quickly familiarise yourself with the culture and customs can help ease the transition during a challenging time This is why Euro Weekly News makes it our mission to provide you with a free news resource in English that covers both regional and national Spanish news – anything that we feel you will benefit from knowing as you integrate into your new community and live your best life in Spain you can forget about translating articles from Spanish into awkward English that probably don’t make much sense Let us be your convenient and essential guide to all things that will likely affect you as a foreign resident living in Spain Hundreds gathered at Calvario Park to celebrate Estepona’s 2025 Foreign Residents’ Day on Saturday a colourful tribute to the town’s cosmopolitan mix Deputy Mayor Begoña Ortiz said of the event, ‘This annual gathering brings together and promotes harmony among all residents while showcasing each country’s unique culture.’ The event honoured three elected foreign residents of the year: Johnny Cuéllar from Bolivia and Teresa Rocío Mateos Torras from Mexico for their community contributions and long-standing participation in Foreign Residents’ Day and the Sweet Christmas Encounter noting the event’s role in recognising such work set up stalls offering examples of traditional cuisine and artisanal crafts Spain gave excellent performances by local dance schools La Milana and Marví Dominguez and Claudia Ramírez ‘La Maravilla’ The stage was non-stop all day with Chilean cumbias Informational stalls from groups like the Estepona Foreign Residents’ Association (AREME) and the Official Language School added to the community feel shows Estepona’s commitment to celebrating its global community Subscribe to our Euro Weekly News alerts to get the latest stories into your inbox Website#mb6642f2688edb98ec0ab55d{display:none} Euro Weekly News is the leading English language newspaper in Spain by delivering news with a social conscience we are proud to be the voice for the expat communities who now call Spain home With around half a million print readers a week and over 1.5 million web views per month EWN has the biggest readership of any English language newspaper in Spain The paper prints over 150 news stories a week with many hundreds more on the web – no one else even comes close Our publication has won numerous awards over the last 25 years including Best Free Newspaper of the Year (Premios AEEPP) Company of the Year (Costa del Sol Business Awards) and Collaboration with Foreigners honours (Mijas Town Hall) All of this comes at ZERO cost to our readers All our print and online content always has been and always will be FREE OF CHARGE Download our media pack in either English or Spanish Meliá Hotels International continues to strengthen its growth through its luxury brands The company has announced the signing of a hotel on the coast in the town of Estepona which will operate under The Meliá Collection brand marking the first project on the Costa del Sol within its portfolio of exceptional hotels Bahía Estepona member of Meliá Collection will join the company's luxury offerings on the Andalusian coast by mid-2026 following a renovation that will elevate its standards and facilities making it a standout icon in the brand's holiday portfolio The hotel will feature 134 rooms and suites thoughtfully designed to provide guests with an unparalleled seaside experience the outdoor areas of Bahía Estepona member of Meliá Collection The hotel will boast a stunning swimming pool and serene gardens Guests can also focus on their well-being with access to a fully equipped fitness centre and a spa offering the finest treatments The hotel will provide a diverse gastronomic experience with three restaurants Located in one of the destination's most charming towns where visitors can wander through typical whitewashed streets adorned with flower-filled pots Bahía Estepona will offer the perfect place to immerse oneself in the essence of Andalusia the hotel will feature a carefully curated cultural programme enhancing the luxury experience and connecting guests to the local culture the hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Puerto Banus half an hour from Marbella's historic centre and within easy reach of Mijas and Málaga city Meliá Hotels International now has 30 hotels open or in the process of opening in Andalusia including two other projects under The Meliá Collection brand in Cádiz and Ronda it's also worth noting the enhancement of the company's luxury portfolio with the upcoming opening of a ME by Meliá branded hotel in the city centre by the end of the year as well as the repositioning of one of its hotels in Marbella Brand OwnerMeliá Hotels International Music lovers are invited to a free concert in Estepona on Friday The Symphony Orchestra and Choirs from Weber State University will perform at the Felipe VI Auditorium at 8:30pm The Diputacion de Malaga organises the concert with the support of the Estepona Town Hall. Admission is free, but an invitation must be collected in advance at the Padre Manuel Cultural Centre The orchestra and choirs will present a varied programme conducted by Francisco de Galvez The evening will open with a Hoedown from Aaron Copland’s famous ballet Rodeo followed by a selection of choral pieces led by Dalan Guthrie The concert’s second part will feature Beethoven’s Triple Concerto for violin Estepona residents and visitors will be treated to performances by three soloists: Shi-Hwa Wang (violin) The event promises a wonderful evening of classical music, bringing together American and Spanish talents. It also offers a rare chance to enjoy a full symphony orchestra and choirs live without the need to travel far or pay for tickets visit the Padre Manuel Cultural Centre as soon as possible Don’t miss this special night of music in Estepona Website#bd872875fb1ab9cf46b81ef6{display:none} The judge in charge of an Estepona investigating court has found evidence of possible misappropriation of public funds by the mayor of Estepona The case refers to the hiring for two months of a woman with whom he maintained "a close friendship" The court report states that from the preliminary proceedings it can be deduced "in a circumstantial manner" that García Urbano "taking advantage of his position" as mayor and with the aim of providing her with "financial help" with whom he maintained "an intimate relationship of friendship" as a temporary adviser No proof of activity related to the position has been found The mayor has called for the case to be thrown out claiming that he is the victim of a political smear campaign Police have seized 24 fake artworks in a major operation across Estepona and Malaga including pieces falsely signed by Pablo Picasso and Le Corbusier The forgeries were worth millions of euros on the black market The investigation began in 2023 when authorities were tipped off about suspicious art sales in Estepona. Officers eventually traced the artworks to a network trying to pass off copies as originals by well-known 20th-century artists. The group had been offering the fakes to private collectors and galleries across Europe police recovered carefully aged paintings that even came with fake certificates of authenticity while others hung in luxury homes in Estepona and nearby towns Experts confirmed the pieces were well-made forgeries. The artworks mimicked the signatures and styles of iconic artists Investigators believe the gang had been operating for years including one man believed to have forged the signatures All have links to the international art market More arrests could follow as the case develops It isn’t the first time art forgeries have surfaced on the Costa del Sol the region has become a hotspot for high-end art sales Collectors are urged to verify provenance and consult experts before buying valuable artworks Website#de7a2a2e7f311cad9535a386{display:none} Two longtime British residents of Estepona have been honoured by the town hall for their more than 50 years of service to the town and the surrounding area during a ceremony that took place on Tuesday and was attended by the mayor of Estepona along with close friends and family members which branched out to meet the demands and needs of expats on the Costa del Sol from building homes to chartering flights and installing satellite television During the presentation in the Cancelada area who received a SUR in English Top International Business Award in May 2023 said that he was "honoured for both of us to receive this prestigious recognition" The entrepreneur had no idea about the honour which had been organised by his daughter Allyson until he arrived at the ceremony on Tuesday I was working behind the scenes with the town hall for a few months to get it approved Travelling between Marbella and Estepona is about to become faster and more convenient with Avanza launching their new L-70 Marbella-Estepona bus line The service offers a more direct and efficient trip for residents and visitors and is designed to speed up daily commutes The L-70 has a more practical approach with fewer stops, quicker journeys, and larger buses. Avanza has considered this line for those seeking a straightforward trip between the two coastal towns a change that frequent travellers will no doubt appreciate The company’s focus on efficiency aims to make public transport in the Costa del Sol more reliable and user-friendly Passengers can enjoy a 50 per cent discount on fares for both the L-70 and L-79 lines This brings the cost of a Marbella-Estepona trip down to just €1.90 making the service not only fast and comfortable but also budget-friendly Avanza has been working for years to improve public transportation across the Costa del Sol marks another step forward in meeting the needs of travellers This new line is set to make commuting and visiting both towns easier than ever Marinas del Mediterraneo and Turismo Marinero Costa del Sol have joined forces to bring the culture of the sea closer to Estepona’s residents and visitors The two organisations have signed a collaboration agreement to promote sustainable tourism linked to the town’s fishing traditions and Mediterranean roots Their goal is to highlight the sea’s importance in Estepona’s history while encouraging more responsible and eco-friendly tourism As part of the project, the Estepona Port will host a series of activities focusing on artisanal fishing, marine culture, and the role of women in the fishing sector. Visitors will be able to learn more about traditional fishing methods and the vital work being done to protect the marine environment “This agreement is a fantastic opportunity to show the value of our fishing heritage and connect the marina with the community,” said Manuel Raigon added: “We want to offer a more authentic and sustainable tourism experience one that respects and celebrates our roots.” The project also supports the national Red de Turismo Marinero which aims to boost sustainable tourism and protect coastal communities across Spain the new project is set to strengthen the bond between the port helping to preserve Estepona’s unique Mediterranean identity for future generations Website#cb884f7255e3a8ba6bbb8a0a{display:none} has had a street name dedicated to him by Estepona council to officially unveil the new street sign along with a plenty of family named after the couple Alan and Carol James a couple who landed in the Costa del Sol 55 years ago no one could have ever imagined what Alan was going to do for the south coast of Spain Self-taught in skills of accounting and management after 15 years of working in the concrete business he heard a rumour that northern Europeans were becoming increasingly interested in buying second homes on the Spanish coast While Spaniards tend to prefer to live close together Alan knew that Northern European tastes were more for space and airiness and so a new kind of Spanish coastal living was born Together with business partners who shared Alan’s vision, the Experience Group was formed. From construction, to electronics, from cruise ships to establishing the Costa del Sol’s first lawn bowls clubs the Costa del Sol would never have looked as it does today 87 years old and Alan still turns up at the office every morning ‘On the ground floor of the offices we have construction Upstairs there’s the electronics and telecommunications division four different companies doing everything from solar to air-con and fibre optics and everything you can think of with electronics I’ve handed the reins over to my daughters The unveiling event was kept a complete surprise from Alan as the crowd lined up to applaud the man who was one of the main figures defining what the Costa del Sol would be Website#c144b97a54dc6678485693f4{display:none} Fans of Cuban music have a reason to celebrate as the seasoned band plays in Estepona this Friday The group was born from an idea by one of its five members, Yaemil López Torres, with the aim of reviving and promoting Cuban sounds from their most original roots and many others authored by the great ‘Compay Segundo’ are tastefully treated to their original arrangements by authentic Cuban musicians They have a faithfulness to the original recordings a stamp of authenticity among die-hard fans There will be no shortage of classic favourites on this night Habana Vieja’s desire to please their public and infectiousness with their original taste of Cuba make them usual suspects in all traditional Cuban Jazz circles Cuban percussion and choir; Yohany Suarez Sotomayor double bass and choir; Erenio Ignacio Almonte Corzo guitar and choir; and Elena González Pisonero Habana Vieja plays at Huber in Estepona on Friday Recycling just got easier for residents in Estepona and Cancelada thanks to the town’s mobile collection points The service is designed to help locals dispose of tricky household items responsibly without having to travel far or wait for scheduled pickups Every Tuesday, a mobile recycling van is available in Cancelada from 9am to 10:30am and then moves to different parts of Estepona throughout the day The initiative makes it easy to dispose of common household waste These items often can’t be thrown in regular bins and aren’t always accepted at nearby recycling centres You don’t have to make a special trip with the mobile points and a great way to help keep the local environment clean and free from hazardous waste The Town Hall of Estepona hopes that this service will encourage more people to recycle safely and reduce illegal dumping It’s also a helpful option for expats who may not know where to take special waste items or what can be recycled locally For more information or to view the schedule, visit the Linea Verde Estepona website Website#g4e16a22230b061d0d9474cc{display:none} as hot dog sausages are deliberately left in the streets with pins hidden inside one neighbour in the area of Avenida Galera Costa usually intended to cruelly mutilate and kill feral cats had placed the potentially lethal sausages in an open Tupperware box in the street to lure in cats or any other animals The incident has been reported to the Guardian Civil no word on if a suspect has been identified The family who found the cat trap are calling for potential witnesses to come forward and report their sightings to the Guardia Civil it seems it is not the first time this has happened Commenters on Facebook have left messages with their experiences of seeing this previously 4 or 5 years ago they also put them between Calle Blas Infante and Calle Pablo Picasso; in fact I found three pieces with hypodermic needles in.’ Another commented and this gives me a feeling of helplessness It is horrible; we have to find the culprit.’ Whatever one’s opinion is of colonies of feral cats they are an essential natural fauna in Spain helping to keep rat and mice numbers under control and therefore should be left well alone as they are part of the natural ecosystem Estepona is getting ready to welcome residents and visitors to one of the year’s most colourful and multicultural events The 20th edition of the Foreign Residents’ Day will take place on Saturday starting at 12pm and promises a day full of flavour Held in the Parque El Calvario the event brings together people from more than 25 countries who now call Estepona home It’s a chance for everyone to share and enjoy other cultures Visitors can try a wide variety of traditional dishes prepared by the residents themselves, from Argentina’s empanadas and Mexico’s cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork dish) to Swedish meatballs and Colombian arepas (stuffed corn patties). Many stands will also offer handmade crafts there will be live music and performances throughout the day The event is open to the public and free to enter making it a great day out for families and people of all ages The goal of the event is to celebrate Estepona’s diverse community and help residents from all backgrounds feel connected and at home It’s also an excellent way for newcomers to get to know local expat groups and learn about the town’s international vibe Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to Estepona Website#d3fa4114ee4020519e0c702c{display:none} Estepona Town Hall is moving quickly to repair storm-damaged beaches in time for the summer season washing away large stretches of sand along the coast With tourism season just around the corner, local authorities are working with Spain’s Coastal Department to speed up emergency works. The aim is to restore popular beaches like Playa del Cristo and El Padron before the first summer visitors arrive Trucks are bringing in fresh sand while machinery levels and reinforces the shore The council confirmed these repairs are temporary but essential to ensure the beaches are safe and enjoyable this summer Longer-term solutions are still in the planning stage These include new breakwaters and other protective measures to prevent further erosion Estepona’s mayor stressed the importance of acting fast: “Our beaches are one of our biggest attractions We need them in top condition for residents Local expats and business owners have welcomed the repairs especially those running beachside bars and restaurants If you live in Estepona or plan to visit expect to see some activity along the coastline over the coming weeks The goal is clear: restore the beaches quickly and keep Estepona looking its best for the busy months ahead Website#de8555b91a65555044eef784{display:none} Living on the Costa del Sol doesn’t have to be expensive Estepona offers a variety of free activities that allow you to enjoy the town’s charm without spending a euro Estepona’s streets are decorated with over 60 vibrant murals Take a self-guided tour to discover these artworks that reflect local culture and creativity ADANA is a local dog shelter that welcomes volunteers to walk their dogs It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors Your time is appreciated if you’re a regular or have a free afternoon This non-profit photography group often hosts exhibitions showcasing works by local photographers It’s an excellent opportunity to engage with the community and appreciate local talent The Senda Litoral is a scenic coastal path that stretches along Estepona’s shoreline Enjoy a leisurely walk with lovely sea views linking various beaches and offering a peaceful escape It’s a spicy adventure that’s both educational and fun These activities provide enjoyment and help you connect with Estepona’s community and culture Embrace the local lifestyle without stretching your budget Malmö FF has announced the launch of its first school academy outside Sweden in collaboration with the Swedish International School in Estepona Starting in fall 2025, secondary school students in Estepona can combine high-quality education with professional football training This will be Malmö FF’s 20th school academy and its first international expansion expressed excitement over the project: “It’s fantastic to expand beyond Sweden while staying true to our values.” The initiative originated from the Swedish International School which sought to adopt Malmö FF’s highly regarded academy model Estepona’s strong football culture and favorable climate make it an ideal location for the academy “We saw great potential in combining Swedish education with football in collaboration with Malmö FF,” said Ida Beckman from the school The academy will follow the same structure as Malmö FF’s Swedish academies with three weekly training sessions alongside academics The club will also support the school’s coaching staff with training and resources For Malmö FF this is an opportunity to strengthen its brand and offer more young people the chance to develop both academically and athletically “Offering a structure where studies and sports go hand in hand is a major advantage,” Beckman added Malmö FF is Sweden’s most successful football club having won the league 27 times and the national Cup 16 times The club also reached the final of the 1978-1979 European Cup the predecessor to the UEFA Champions League and Joan Miró will be among the legendary figures who will have drawings displayed at the Cultural Centre Mirador del Carmen with drawings from the invaluable collection of Fundación MAPFRE is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire masterpieces that transformed the art landscape as we know it It’s one of those opportunities that you regret not taking advantage of When else will readers be able to browse drawings from some of art’s greatest of all time The Town Hall of Estepona (Costa del Sol) is rolling out the red carpet for an exhibition like no other at the Cultural Centre Mirador del Carmen showcasing a treasure trove of artwork by some of the biggest names in art history the exhibition ‘Drawing Modernity: Collections of Fundación MAPFRE’ will feature a whopping one hundred works on paper offering a glimpse into art history from the late 19th to the early 20th century Hop on this fascinating journey with original drawings that have never before graced the walls of Mirador del Carmen Art enthusiasts and anyone curious about exploring something truly special can expect to see the likes of Pablo Picasso The showcase is organised in three creative phases kicking off with artists like Mariano Fortuny These maestros might have clung to tradition but they’re also bursting with hints of the avant-garde era just around the corner plying their trade beyond Spanish borders and mingling with the likes of Degas Picasso’s Parisian Passion takes centre stage as the Spanish genius spent much of his career in the City of Light His works will serve as a bridge between the most innovative trends flourishing in Paris and the artistic production happening back in Spain Explore pieces from this vibrant period of his life and Francis Picabia will come together to tell the story of a changing era showcasing an art scene influenced by the avant-garde movements Spanish artists soaked up the surrealist movement brewing in France and gave it new life The exhibition will include key figures like Salvador Dalí and Óscar Domínguez – all members of the surrealist group The aftermath of the Spanish Civil War changed art forever in Spain The horrors of the war and the changes it carried reminiscent of the German realism of the 1920s brilliantly captured in the watercolours of Arturo Souto You will see these remarkable pieces firsthand the echoes of fresh European realism are evident in Genaro Lahuerta and Joaquín Peinado while the influence of surrealism breathes life into Julio González’s work from the 1940s The quest for primitive forms and pure shapes found in the art of Ángel Ferrant connects seamlessly with the more gestural and material pieces that complete the exhibition exemplified by the stunning works of Tàpies and Chillida Head over to the Mirador del Carmen in Estepona (Costa del Sol) where the past meets the present in a spectacular celebration of creativity and innovation Estepona council has just opened the registration period for bars and restaurants to participate in the annual tapas route which is taking place between March 28 and 30 With the slogan ‘Saborea Estepona’ (Savour Estepona) promote the high-level culinary excellence in the town cafes and restaurants in Estepona can register In this year’s event, a jury made up of gastronomy and hospitality professionals joins the contest to choose one of the winners has explained that this year the participating establishments will be entered in the ‘La Mejor Tapa 2025’ contest including one of €1,000 and a plaque for the winner of the best tapa chosen by customers in a popular vote and another prize of €1,000 and a plaque for the winner of the best tapa chosen by the jury of professionals from the industry In addition, one of the sponsors of Estepona’s Ruta de la Tapa will be Frutas & Verduras Acosta who will give each registered establishment €100 worth of purchases in this establishment for the preparation of their competing tapa entry People entering the participating bars and restaurants will be given a booklet that they can stamp in each place they try the tapa Once they have tried 5 from 5 different establishments or restaurant owners who wish to enter the tapa route promotion There has been a new shooting incident on the Costa del Sol It happened in the Cancelada area of Estepona It happened during the eviction of several squatters yesterday evening Police officers attended the scene after calls alerted them to shots fired The officers inspected the area and found several spent bullet casings The incident unfolded at around 7pm near Calle Carmen Conde when a company specialising in evicting squatters arrived to perform an operation involving several individuals some of the squatters allegedly returned to the area and fired several shots Police patrols were mobilised to the scene where they recovered at least two bullet casings The suspects are said to have fled in a vehicle The police have launched an investigation to identify and locate them The incident happened less than 24 hours after a British man was killed in a shooting in Mijas According to the main hypothesis of that case the two alleged suspects waited for the victim to finish a football match before shooting him dead a confrontation between families in the Portada Alta neighbourhood in Malaga city also resulted in a man getting shot in the leg The police arrested five people in connection to the case four of whom were released and one was imprisoned Just a few hours after the shooting on Thursday, another man was shot in the shoulder near a Marbella nightclub on Calle Príncipe Salimam where a party with an international DJ was being held Witnesses reported seeing the perpetrator fleeing in a car Several shootings have been reported in the last month, confirming the increase of firearms on the streets of the Costa del Sol. At the beginning of April, a man fired several shots in Calle Gaucín in Malaga city injuring four people - his target and three other people who were working or walking nearby Estepona has just launched a lovely new idea for book lovers The town hall has created a network of “Libros Libres” or “Free Books” spots across town Everyone in the community, locals and expats alike, is welcome to pick up a book for free and then return it or swap it with another and bring people together through the love of books These little libraries are dotted around key locations in Estepona, including La Cala, Parque del Calvario Each book house is easy to spot and open to all The town hall hopes this project will encourage people of all ages to read more and share stories with others It’s also a great way for English-speaking expats to find books in different languages or even introduce locals to English titles you might find your next great read waiting inside a wooden book house And if you’ve got a book you’ve already read at home why not give it a new life by leaving it for someone else Website#ee391097afaa4582b0ea1ed4{display:none} As well as the processions throughout Malaga province during Holy Week three towns celebrate the religious festival by performing the Passion Play In Riogordo around 600 locals take part in El Paso including foreign residents who live in the town It has both Spanish and international recognition and its own outdoor theatre This year El Paso de Riogordo is taking place on Good Friday (18 April) and Saturday 19 is made up of 17 scenes and lasts for approximately three hours Tickets are available at El Calvario box office on the days of the performance They can also be purchased through www.mientrada.net Cerería Zalo and Tienda Nazareno (both in Malaga city) and at Pasatiempos bookshop in Torre del Mar El Paso de Benalmádena is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and is performed by local residents The performance will take place on Maundy Thursday (17 April) and Good Friday (18) at El Retamar park El Paso will be performed through the streets on Saturday 19 April from 6pm The performance will start on Plaza San Francisco and will end in the Botanical Orchid Park El Paso has been performed in Estepona since 2014 and involves around 100 people The itinerary is: Plaza San Francisco (Last Supper) Plaza Manuel Alcántara (prayer in the olive garden) C/ Castillo (Palaces of Pontious Pilate and Herod) C/ Terraza and Parque Botánico Orquidario (Crucifixion) The IV Senda Litoral Half Marathon ‘Ikos Andalusia Trophy’ will take place on Sunday bringing exciting new additions to the popular race Organised by Estepona Town Hall and the Club de Atletismo de Estepona the event is once again sponsored by Ikos Andalusia ensuring its continued growth as a key sporting event on the Costa del Sol Since its first edition, the race has attracted runners from across Spain and beyond establishing itself as a must-attend event This year’s edition introduces live streaming allowing fans to follow the action in real time cash prizes have been increased for top finishers in both absolute and local categories and runners can enjoy an improved race pack The day will end with a post-race event at the Caseta Municipal One of the highlights of the race is its scenic and varied route combining urban areas with coastal landscapes The 21,1 km course starts in Cancelada and finishes at the Estepona Athletics Stadium making it a diverse and demanding challenge A free shuttle service will transport participants from the stadium to the start line The event is part of the official calendar of the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) and the Andalusian Athletics Federation (FAA) with race timing supervised by official judges Runners can register now via the Andalusian Federation website with a special €18 fee for the first 200 sign-ups With each edition, the Senda Litoral Half Marathon continues to grow, offering not just a top-level race but a full experience that blends competition Felipe VI Auditorium in Estepona next Saturday will host the ‘UNIT Dance Championships of Spain’ in which over five hundred dancers of all ages from academies throughout the country will participate This is the first time that Estepona is to host a dance competition of this calibre an event in which the Martina Tessaro Dance School of the town will act as host whose students are also performing in the competition The objective of the championship is to promote dance to children and teenagers and show them the possibilities this activity offers them to develop a professional career or get in shape The championship including competitions in different disciplines such as Ballet in both amateur and professional categories Those dancers who qualify in this national semifinal will represent Spain in the European finals which will be held in Germany from April 30 to May 3 The event will be open to the public and includes two master classes during breaks. Tickets can be purchased at the box office from one hour before the event: €20 for adults and €15 for children under 11 years old Felipe VI Auditorium is in Calle Diputado Ignacio The High Court of Justice of Andalucía has ratified the jail sentence of the British man who stabbed 19-year-old Ulrich Perez to death following a road traffic dispute in Estepona on 18 November 2020 The Supreme Court of the Junta de Andalucía (TSJA) has rejected the appeal of the defence team for Lewis Briggs and has confirmed the sentence of 20 years in prison as handed down by a provincial court in Malaga in October 2024 Ulrich had gone to the supermarket in Estepona to buy detergent and ran after the vehicle when it drove off again Lewis returned in pursuit of the young man grabbed a knife from the glove compartment kicked him in the chest and stabbed him in the torso Ulrich's family waited four years for the man accused of killing him to sit on the bench and hear his sentence but maintained that it was a mistake and that he had no intention of ending the teenager's life He also stated that he had not slept the night before the crime and that he had consumed alcohol and drugs The "surprising" and "unexpected" attack resulted in a puncturing of the heart that caused a haemorrhage the culprit left the scene and swapped the two number plates on the car He then fled to England by plane via Portugal until he was captured on 22 December 2020 - one month and five days after the crime he admitted the crime and was transferred back to Spain It was established that Briggs was a heavy user of cocaine alcohol and anxiolytics at the time of the incident he suffered from a dissocial personality disorder linked to adult attention deficit disorder (ADD) the court found that during the assault "his faculties of understanding and volition were not affected by these circumstances" The judge sentenced the accused to 18 years in prison for committing murder with the mitigating circumstance of repairing the damage as the defendant deposited 50,000 euros into the court account to cover the compensation that could be owed to the victims he was sentenced to two more years for a minor offence of theft in conjunction with the use of false documentation which the Supreme Court of the Junta de Andalucía has now dismissed finding no facts that prove the existence of an incomplete exoneration or mitigating circumstance of mental disorder or drug addiction when Ulrich's older sister Abril was only eight months old His father named him Ulrich after the drummer of Metallica The couple separated a few years later and Tatiana - a domestic worker by occupation - started a relationship with a Spanish cook He helped her raise her children and together they had little Dylan Tatiana's family is very integrated and appreciated in Estepona Estepona will soon put out to tender the construction of two new sections of the coastal path which will allow the extension of the coastal corridor in the areas of Bahía Dorada to the west of the municipality and in Atalaya to the east Work continues on the new pedestrian route after 17 large bridges were completed a few months ago as part of a project to construct a boardwalk that reaches all along the Costa del Sol The coastal path project faces its final stretch with almost 21 kilometres already built all aimed at improving access between localities The tenders to be put out will be for the construction of further bridges to link the boardwalks to the Estepona promenade work is being completed in Benamara between El Saladillo and the surroundings of the Dos Hermanas urbanisation the full project in Estepona is 90 percent complete The tenth 'Popi' Sabor a Málaga cheese fair will bring together around thirty companies this coming weekend (Friday 28 to Sunday 30 March) on Calle Real in Estepona on the Costa del Sol It is an initiative promoted by the town hall and the professional ham cutter José María Téllez 'Popi' through its promotional brand Sabor a Málaga The foodie market is once again being held with the aim of promoting and highlighting the great quality and variety of the cheeses and dairy products produced by the participating companies 80 per cent of which are from Malaga province Cheese continues to be the star product of this fair but there will also be many other products on sale The cheese fair will be open from 12pm to 10pm The cheese fair coincides with the Saborea Estepona (Taste Estepona) tapas route with more than 30 bars and restaurants offering a tapa and drink (beer soft drink or water) for three euros or tapa and wine for four euros The opening hours of the tapas route will be Friday from 8pm to 11pm Estepona Vive Sus Calles returns for its 2025 edition this annual extravaganza aims to bring residents and visitors together to enjoy the town’s recently revitalised historic streets through a packed programme of free activities showcasing the very best cured Spanish ham and the best professional cutters Families can enjoy a children’s party on Saturday from noon to 8pm at Plaza Augusto Suárez featuring an ‘It’s a Knockout-style’ circuit with a mechanical bull and climbing wall Estepona Vive Sus Calles offers something for everyone in this lively community celebration the streets of Estepona will be full of a spring party atmosphere making its way to Morocco on a charity-driven adventure to deliver medical and school supplies For the eighth year, Estepona will host the ‘Oasis Raid’ Rally a motor event open to the general public that combines adventure and adrenaline with solidarity The event is organised by Motor Adventure S.L. participating vehicles will undergo technical checks at the starting point of the race located directly in front of the Muñoz Pérez Stadium at 1pm drivers will start their engines and start their expedition with the African continent as their destination Participants will be divided into two categories: ‘Raid’ consisting of vehicles registered in the 1980s and 1990s The convoy will then cross neighbouring Morocco in a week-long journey open for anyone to sign up for a special – and charitable – adventure through the desert One of the race’s fundamental mission statements, now entering its thirteenth edition The rally will deliver supplies to families in need in some of the most disadvantaged regions of Morocco Aspiring rally drivers should race to register though as the last 10 spots in the rally are being advertised on the Oasis Raid website Estepona continues seeing improvements and extensions of the Senda Litoral coastal path The last section to be inaugurated was the Benamara section which links the El Saladillo area with Dos Hermanas The ultimate objective is to unify the province's 180-kilometre coastline and make it possible to walk or cycle from Manilva to Nerja This was stated by mayor of Estepona José María García Urbano at the inauguration of the last completed section The head of the municipality has made the project a personal goal since he took office in 2011 "It was one of the projects that I promised we would take forward (...) and today we are very satisfied This is a significant achievement considering the complexities of such a project that requires "a lot of legal and administrative management" The section inaugurated had a funding of one million euros as part of the total budget for the coastal path - 25 million euros "I would like to express my personal gratitude without the involvement of other administrations it would have been impossible for this project to go ahead," said García Urbano He named the provincial authority and the Mancomunidad association of the western Costa del Sol municipalities as two of the entities most connected to the initiative The mayor also extended his gratitude to the technicians who designed the project and to the municipal technicians who directed it in addition to the environmental delegation of the regional government and the provincial demarcation he thanked Estepona residents for their patience and understanding that "what belongs to everyone should be for everyone" García Urbano stated that two sections remain to be completed The first of these will see the beginning of work after Easter and the last which is awaiting authorisation from the environmental delegation is expected to start and be completed before the end of 2025 The mayor added that there would be one last project which "will connect the coastal corridor with the mountains and the rural area" through paths parallel to streams the Arroyo de las Cañas river path is practically finished and Estepona town hall is now working on the Guadalmina river which will connect with Benahavís and with the long path that runs through the north of the province," said García Urbano The president of the Malaga provincial authority congratulated the mayor of Estepona for his personal involvement in the project and said that its culmination means the collaboration of all the mayors of the municipalities through which the Senda Litoral runs "Estepona has already completed 11 sections some of them with its own municipal funding so it is impossible to have more involvement," said Salado Salado described the coastal path as "essential for the province of Malaga" as it connects municipalities from a sustainability point of view energising the route and the businesses along it which in turn increases tourism and revenue "Tourists are looking for something exclusive and different and the Senda Litoral is exactly that," said Salado Mancomunidad president Manuel Cardeña also expressed his opinion that the Senda Litoral project "is an example of efficiency" that should extend to the rest of the Costa del Sol municipalities Once the remaining phases have been completed the challenge will be to connect the coastal path with the inland path which will create a full experience of the province's sea and mountains Estepona is preparing to host a pioneering event in Spain with the arrival of the ‘Breiki Festival’ the first electronic music festival exclusively aimed at families with children The event promises to unite children and adults in a safe and adapted environment where they can enjoy together a music event normally prohibited to children Breiki was born from the idea of creating an unforgettable experience for families passionate about electronic dance music live acts and different entertainment zones the event seeks to promote a healthy way to attend and enjoy music festivals One of the main focuses of musical style will be Breakbeat a sound that has been huge in Andalusia since the 90s there will be Drum & Bass and Garage without the decibels strong enough to damage any little one’s eardrums The festival will also have its own chillout zone with face painting To ensure the safety and comfort of families the event will not allow entry to adults without children and establishes a maximum of four adults per minor Babies and toddlers up to two years old will be able to get in for free The event is taking place on Friday, February 28 between 4pm and 9pm at the Recinto Ferial in Salas Soho, Templo and Ajetreo, and the first 50 children to arrive will receive a little gift. Tickets are €14 per person above 2 years and are available from monsterticket.com Estepona’s going the distance – again The IV Half Marathon Senda Litoral ‘Trofeo Ikos Andalusia’ has officially sold out with more than a month to go before race day cementing its place as one of Andalucia’s top running events the coastal half marathon hit its 700-runner limit weeks ahead of schedule – prompting organisers to unlock 50 extra slots due to “unprecedented demand.” These bonus bibs went live on tusinscripciones.es at 10 PM on 2 April and are expected to sprint off the site in no time It’s the fourth year on the trot for this seaside showdown The official race shirt was revealed in style beside the Torre del Velerín a freshly restored coastal landmark on the route blends bold colours and geometric shapes meant to echo the waves – and the runners’ momentum The race begins in Cancelada and finishes at Estepona’s Athletics Stadium The route serves up a mix of surfaces – concrete and coastal boardwalks – winding through Estepona’s most scenic spots: the Senda Litoral It’s a “technical yet scenic” run and that’s helped fuel its growing reputation with each edition the entire event will be broadcast live on digital platforms so fans can cheer from anywhere – and sponsors can bask in the spotlight too Finishers will walk away with a bespoke medal inspired by the town’s branding and designed as a keepsake of personal achievement The Caseta Municipal will host a post-race bash open to all runners with live DJ music and a hearty paella on the menu Whether you’re chasing personal bests or just a plate of carbs Officially listed on the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) calendar the race follows the rulebook of the Andalusian Athletics Federation Timekeeping and rankings will be handled by Malaga’s official athletics judges ensuring the results are race-ready and recognised free buses will run from the stadium to the starting point and a security team including Local Police and volunteers will be on the ground throughout the course Route: Cancelada to Estepona Athletics Stadium Info & Registration: tusinscripciones.es Get more freshly brewed news from the Costa del Sol Stay tuned to the Euro Weekly News for the latest Spanish news in English Estepona Council has launched a series of urgent measures to address the critical demand for affordable housing (VPO) with key approvals set for this month’s plenary session Backed by a new Junta de Andalucía law aimed at speeding up the process across the region excluding areas zoned for health or education The plan involves pinpointing suitable plots that will support VPO rentals or temporary accommodations for those struggling to access housing. VPOs are social housing that are protected from property speculators in order to keep prices down The proposal also includes a 10 per cent increase in building density on council-owned VPO plots and up to 20 per cent on select residential sites maximising the amount of affordable homes for rapid development This is part of Estepona’s housing commitment following the delivery of 100 VPO units in Juan Benítez and ongoing projects in Camino de Cortes ‘We’re acting quickly to meet our citizens’ needs,’ a council spokesperson said The council has been waiting since 2011 to get approval for the redevelopment of this type of housing The plenary session this week will greenlight technical studies to expedite construction guaranteeing compliance with new regional law Estepona hopes to promise to ease the housing shortage and better support its most vulnerable residents new exhibition 'Drawing modernity - from Fortuny to Tàpies' has opened at the Mirador del Carmen cultural centre in Estepona a collection of 100 works by the most outstanding universal geniuses of art that can be viewed until 23 February which is organised by the town hall and the Mapfre foundation brings together drawings framed in the period between 1864 and 1968 by artists of the stature of Picasso Created by these undisputed figures in the history of art the exhibition is presented as a semblance of the history of art structured in three creative stages It starts with drawings by Spanish artists such as Mariano Fortuny Joaquín Sorolla and Francisco Pradilla y Ortiz Many of them worked outside of Spain and were familiar with the works of masters such as Edgar Degas whose work is also present in the exhibition The presence of Pablo Picasso's creations during his time in Paris are quite significant to the collection as his creations served as a link between the most innovative trends that were developing in the French capital and the art that was being produced in Spain Joaquín Torres García and Francis Picabia dialogue with each other throughout the exhibition to explain about a change of era and a heterogeneous art that includes aspects of the avant-garde movements Many Spanish artists who were active in Paris during the 1920s witnessed first-hand the birth of surrealism a trend to which this exhibition devotes special attention Some of the artists featured in the exhibition were essential figures of the movement Relations between France and Spain resulted in a strong surrealist imprint in Spain which would extend over time and would rank along with other trends until the 1950s the avant-garde movement in Spain began to wane due to preference for melancholic art related to the German realism which is represented in the watercolours of Arturo Souto The echo of the new European realisms in Genaro Lahuerta and Joaquín Peinado the surrealist influence on Julio González in the 1940s the search for the primitive and the pure forms of Ángel Ferrant connect with those other informalist works; some more gestural of which the two drawings that close the exhibition which are part of Mapfre's valuable collection of drawings offer a unique opportunity to admire works of art on paper by the most outstanding artists through a story that aims to show the paths that led to modernity at the turn of the 19th to the 20th century The exhibition can be viewed Tuesday to Sunday from 10am until 2pm and from 5pm to 9pm Estepona town hall has announced that the 10th ExpoTattoo exhibition will take place on 7 8 and 9 March at the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos from 12 pm each day More than 120 national and international tattoo artists from countries such as Colombia Czech Republic and Romania will join together for a charitable event that seeks to break the stigma around the art of tattooing Special guest artist this year will be Miguel Morales from Jerez Profits from the event will go to the children's oncology volunteers association of the Hospital Materno (AVOI) Some of the tattoo art performed at the exhibition will be so complex that the process will span the three days of the event All the tattoos done during the day will enter a competition with more than 12 different categories The tattoo sessions on Friday and Saturday will be followed by musical performances the winning tattoo of the day will be announced The 'Best Tattoo' will be announced at the end of the Sunday session Chaos has hit a housing complex between Cancelada and San Pedro de Alcántara with houses literally beginning to fall down a hillside Once perfectly situated individual family homes have been witnessing their gardens break away while fractures appear inside their abodes since construction began on new houses a tier below The quake-like destruction in Paraíso Hills has caused the earth to open up so much that the underside of some dwellings are actually visible through the cracks The terrifying collapse began in May 2024 when a construction company working on another property development on a lower level began building work by demolishing part of a stone support wall holding up the previously built houses Their claim is that the rock structure supporting the hillside properties technically overlapped the plot they are developing without prior warning and without an independent topographical study builders set about removing the support rocks from just below Severe fissures began materialising in the gardens above and cracks in the structure of some of the houses leading to panic among residents Estepona council has since ordered the halting of the new building works until a solution is found to install 80 concrete beams and a concrete slope to bolster support for the preexisting homes above the residents have been told to pay €3,000 each to go towards costs they still wait impatiently as their homes crumble around them A topographer contracted by the construction company claims that the subsidance has stopped and that the houses are now safe residents complain that their houses continue to slowly slide down the hill and that it is clearly visible for anyone to see No repair work has been carried out while the construction company continues adding support beams and tension cables to stop the homes above from collapsing onto the construction site below With the rainy season rapidly approaching, residents are desperate to have a definitive solution as immediately as possible but considering the director of the construction company refuses to visit the site so to witness the severity of the situation himself More than 200 people signed up for the IV Senda Litoral Media Maratón de Estepona (coastal path half marathon) within the first 48 hours of the registration platform opening Organisers said that this rapid pace of registration confirms the growing interest in one of the most outstanding races on the Andalusian calendar which continues to consolidate itself as an essential event for serious runners This half marathon is distinguished by the fact that it combines different types of terrain and landscapes from where the runners will travel along the coastal path and on to the fishing port and the old town of Estepona until they reach the finish line at the town’s sports complex Along with cash prizes for the winners of the different categories all participants who finish the race will receive a special souvenir medal The runners will be able to enjoy a post-race event with a free paella and live music Registration costs 22 euros and those wishing to participate must sign up by 13 April https://tusinscripciones.es/index.php/ruta/iv-media-maraton-litoral-de-estepona-trofeo-ikos-andalusia Representatives of some of Estepona’s 130 different nationalities participated in the town’s foreign residents’ day event on Saturday a gathering that highlighted each of the nations’ rich cultural diversity where hundreds of residents and visitors enjoyed an afternoon of live music and entertainment which included performances by three local dance academies The council said that the objective of this annual event is “to strengthen ties and promote coexistence” between citizens of the different nationalities who reside in Estepona in addition to learning about the culture and traditions of each of the participating countries The day offered an opportunity to taste the typical cuisine and acquire the artisanal products of the countries present the town hall presented plaques to the winners of the 'foreign resident of the year' recognition The awards were given to Johnny Cuellar (Bolivia) Carlos Stieffel (Argentina) and Teresa Rocío Mateos Torras (Mexico) for the work they undertake in the foreign community and their two decades of assistance in the organisation of the foreign residents’ day activities San Luis castle in Estepona has uncovered treasures making for a fascinating visit for anyone in the area and revealing the history of the historic Mediterranean town This coastal fortress was built in the last quarter of the 16th century in the historical context of the reorganisation of the defence of the West coast of Malaga after the Moorish rebellion of 1568. Its original purpose was to reinforce the southern front of the walls of Islamic origin, dominating the natural anchorage of La Rada beach Its most prominent elements were three artillery bastions and a large arcaded parade with several barracks the site has already received over 4,000 visitors since it opened barely a month ago The excavation and recovery works on this 16th-century fortress have received an average of 150 daily visitors a day of which almost 50 percent have been foreign residents and tourists The enclosure has a new glass walkway that makes it easier for visitors to pass through to the interior of the castle and contemplate the remains of the different historical phases of the building that were discovered during the archaeological excavation and an old refuge from the Spanish Civil War The Castle of San Luis can be visited from 10am to 2pm and from 5pm to 8pm from Monday to Friday Hidden on the rooftop terrace of one of the most splendid five-star hotels in the centre of Estepona is a gastronomic gem with alternative yet delicate flavours the town has been waiting for Makako is a temple of fusion cuisine with a mixture of ingredients and influences in a definitive Southeast Asian style and aromas neatly blends the familiar with pleasant surprises we didn’t get off to a good start: someone in the chain of communication between the hotel reception and the top floor No matter; they managed to find us a table at this busy spot The restaurant managed to pull me back from my usual cynical side once the food came out We had gone for a more flexible sharing selection starting with a cold edamame hummus with finely sliced and making me eager to try the same out in my own kitchen Next up was the General Tso chicken in is a delightful satay sauce I’m often put off by satay as it is almost always over salted making this dish the most moreish of the evening a bang-bang chicken salad with Chinese noodles a beautifully presented Yuzu sorbet on a slice of watermelon but that was big enough for the both of us I was expecting the bill to be more than one would have normally paid at any of the seafront restaurants on that part of the coast. But no. This was the most pleasant surprise of the evening. Despite the exclusive look of an elegant rooftop terrace restaurant in Plaza de las Flores the meal was considerably more reasonable than many lesser quality restaurants I know in Estepona as we had quite a few cocktails afterwards and Parisian-style cabaret as El Greek del Puerto transforms into a Moulin Rouge-inspired spectacle by the sea guests will be transported to the golden age of cabaret with a sensational show featuring dazzling performances and the electrifying energy of the legendary Moulin Rouge El Greek del Puerto is where you’ll want to be Read more news in English from the Costa del Sol. Read more news in English from around Spain. Subscribe to our Euro Weekly News alerts to get the latest stories into your inbox! Known as the PEOPLE’S PAPER, Euro Weekly News is the leading English language newspaper in Spain. And it’s FREE! Covering the Almeria, Axarquia, Costa Blanca North, Costa Blanca South, Costa del Sol , Costa Calida, Mallorca and beyond, EWN supports and inspires the individuals, neighbourhoods, and communities we serve, by delivering news with a social conscience. Whether it’s local news in Spain, UK news or international stories, we are proud to be the voice for the expat communities who now call Spain home. With around half a million print readers a week and over 1.5 million web views per month, EWN has the biggest readership of any English language newspaper in Spain. The paper prints over 150 news stories a week with many hundreds more on the web – no one else even comes close. Our publication has won numerous awards over the last 25 years including Best Free Newspaper of the Year (Premios AEEPP), Company of the Year (Costa del Sol Business Awards) and Collaboration with Foreigners honours (Mijas Town Hall). All of this comes at ZERO cost to our readers. All our print and online content always has been and always will be FREE OF CHARGE. Download our media pack in either English or Spanish. After a decade of life, the Orchidarium park of Estepona, inaugurated in March 2015, has consolidated itself as one of the town's main tourist attractions. During the past decade, the park has welcomed half a million visitors. With more than 3,000 species of plants, the Orchidarium contains one of the largest collections of orchids in Spain (1,500) and one of the most important ones in Europe. According to the town hall, it has become "one of the most important stops" for Estepona visitors and "one of the attractions most valued by local residents". Records show that the majority of visitors are from Spain. Among them are also Estepona residents themselves, as they are granted two invitations from the town hall per year. Nonetheless, the park has also welcomed tourists from various European and international destinations: Germany, France, England, Finland, Italy, Sweden, the US, Argentina, China and Morocco. The Orchidarium hit a record number of visitors in 2024, exceeding 54,000. Not surprisingly, spring is the most popular season for walking around the botanic garden, as it coincides with the blooming season of many of the species. The spring months are followed by August, September and October in the number of visitors. The building has three glass-covered domes that have completely changed the appearance of the town. The main dome houses dozens of species of orchids and a large waterfall. Outside, it offers a large green lung of more than 15,000 square metres. The aim of the Estepona Orchidarium is to preserve its botanical collection and to promote the town's cultural heritage. Registered office Málaga, Avda. Dr. Marañón, 48. The Costa del Sol's population has grown by more than 50,000 people in the past five years, according to the latest official figures. Malaga city is the most populated locality in the province with 591,637 inhabitants according to the Spain's national statistics institute (INE), based on the official padrón (or census) on 1 January this year. Malaga city's population is then followed by Marbella, with 159,000 residents; Mijas (93,302); Vélez-Málaga (85,990); Fuengirola (85,598); and Estepona (78,413). But if instead of ranking the municipalities of the province by number of inhabitants, SUR ranks them by population growth over the past five years, and since 2019, the ranking is somewhat different. Malaga city continues to appear in first place, with a population increase of around 17,000 people. Next comes Marbella, which has gained 15,614 residents in the past five years, while Mijas' population has grown by 10,560 people. It is from this point that changes in the ranking appear, with Estepona emerging, adding 10,127 more residents. The population of Benalmádena grew by more than 9,500 people, according to the statistics, while Fuengirola and Rincón de la Victoria each gained more than 5,000 people. The municipality that lags behind is Vélez-Málaga, which added just 4,347 more inhabitants since 2019. Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the spectrum is Ronda, with its population decreasing by 426 inhabitants in the past five years to 33,451. Archidona has 200 fewer residents than in 2019, as does Cómpeta, the data shows. In percentage terms, Casares is the Malaga municipality where the population has grown the most: in the past five years it has seen its population increase by 30%, to 8,486 inhabitants, after gaining 1,971 residents. Casares is followed by Ojén and Torrox, with a 25% increase, to 4,682 and 21,583 residents, respectively. Among the municipalities with more than 25,000 inhabitants, the one where population has grown the most in percentage terms is Coín (16%, which is an increase of more than 3,600 inhabitants). Meanwhile, of the larger municipalities, the ones that have recorded the largest population increases in percentage terms are Estepona and Benalmádena, with increases of around 14%, while in Mijas the rise is 12.75%. Marbella and Rincón de la Victoria registered a population growth around 10%. These are all municipalities in which population growth has exceeded the average for Malaga province: the population increase of 111,351 inhabitants in the past five years results in a percentage increase of 6.7%. The Anglican Church of San Pedro Alcántara and Sotogrande is celebrating five decades of serving the English-speaking Christian community of the western Costa del Sol, which covers an area from Marbella to Algeciras, and includes Estepona, Manilva, Duquesa and Sotogrande. In order to mark the golden jubilee year, the community has organised a series of spiritual activities under the guidance of Reverend Tony Carroll, who took over as chaplain in May 2023. SUR in English caught up with the priest, who lives in Estepona, shortly before the Holy Week activities began to take over the streets, one of his "favourite periods on the coast". "The church was founded by a group of people who met in their houses to pray and study the bible together. They decided to set up the chaplaincy, which became possible when Franco's regime was coming to an end. At this time, it was possible for other Christian groups to set themselves up," Father Tony explains to SUR in English. Born in Liverpool in 1965, Tony set out on his religious quest at the age of 22, when he joined a Roman Catholic religious order called the Jesuits, with whom he stayed for 25 years. During this time, he lived in Spain, Mexico, Colombia and Guatemala. Between 1993 and 1995, Father Tony lived in Bilbao and he learned to speak Spanish while working with a drug rehabilitation group called Proyecto Hombre. "The Basque Country is very different to the Costa del Sol. It rains a lot, and it's very green. It was rather difficult for the first six months, but I soon experienced the beauty of speaking Spanish. The people are different also. They are less exuberant, more serious, I suppose," the reverend says. Father Tony also worked in the UK for 15 years, where he taught philosophy and theology at the University of London. In 2013, he made the decision to leave the Roman Catholic church to join the Anglican church in order "to get married", which he did in 2015. "I was a celibate Roman Catholic priest until 2013. I married my wife Gisela in 2015," he says. Prior to coming to the Costa del Sol, Tony worked in Folkestone, after which, he taught at an Anglican priest training college in Mirfield, Yorkshire, for five years. "I applied for the job here while in England and I was very much looking forward to it. I had never lived in this part of the world, so I was excited and full of expectation," he explains. Father Tony says that he is "still relatively new to the area" and that he is still "exploring and experimenting" to understand how best to serve his community. He is also "very interested to learn the stories of the incredible people who have settled here". "We get to hear these stories in our community by chatting and listening to people. We have an amazing foreign community here and they have incredible stories to tell," he says. He points out that the Church's core mission on the coast has two sides. It has an "insider group" for worship on a Sunday, and a broader side where it endeavours to include people who are "not religious", but who enjoy cultural activities. One of these initiatives is the Walk and Talk series, which offers people the chance to enjoy local history and the Andalusian countryside. The most recent walk took place last month, when a group of 25 people visited the Termas de las Bóvedas Roman baths and the Basílica Paleocristiana de Vega del Mar, one of the oldest Christian churches on the Iberian Peninsula, dating from the third to the eighth century. "These walks are for English speakers. They don't have to be churchgoers; we invite everyone to join our community and make friends while enjoying the countryside and learning about the history of the area. My sense is that people are interested in history and culture. I think everybody is searching in life to discover what it is about and how they can live it well," he declares. Another way the priest tries to spread his message is with philosophy, a subject on which he has recently published a book. "Philosophy is a kind of secret scripture for the non-religious. It is often a way that people try to understand the world and themselves. Philosophy gives you a kind of language to talk about these things. It puts you in touch with people who, for thousands of years, have, just like us, been searching to find out what life is all about and how to live it to the best," he explains. The Anglican priest feels that, even though it is often criticised, the Church is constantly changing. He says that it has become more accepting and tolerant, and "this is one of the greatest experiences we have seen in our lifetime". Once Easter has finished, Father Tony will be busy preparing for the "great celebration" on 14 June at the International Club of Estepona (ICE) to mark the church's 50th anniversary. Two riders die in British Supersport Championship crash after 11-bike pile-up The town is located within Spain's Andalusian region Choosing to move abroad is the decision of a lifetime warranting a substantial amount of preparation and open-mindedness where the coastal town of Estepona is quietly emerging as a magnet for expatriates according to seasoned travellers Dianne and Guillermo A remarkable 25 per cent of the town’s population now consists of foreigners drawn in by its authentic character and modern amenities Dianna and Guillermo highlighted the town’s appeal through its connectivity The seasoned travellers sung the town's praises They noted that the climate in Andalusian region stands out as one of the most compelling attractions as it boasts more than nine months of sunshine annually with 325 days of sunshine per year,” shared Dianne “That's nearly nine months of pure sunshine." visitors will find an impressive 20-kilometre stretch coastline featuring beaches to accommodate all preferences Another appealing feature of Estepona is its pedestrian-friendly layout with its flower-filled streets and charming plaza is perfect for relaxing stroll,” shared Guillermo The walkability of the village has made it particularly attractive to travellers seeking a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle Residents can enjoy a high quality of life without the premium price tags associated with other Costa del Sol destinations “Estepona stands out for its affordability compared to its glitzier neighbour Marbella You get to enjoy a high quality of life without spending a fortune,” noted Dianne Estepona is a magnet for international expats Drawing attention to Estepona’s expat-friendly community Guillermo continued: “There is a strong sense of local pride in Estepona and the expats we heard from talked about how welcome they felt It quietly has been attracting expats for a while It has a thriving international community that makes settling in a breeze.” It’s easy to see why town’s welcoming atmosphere is compelling to expats Additional perks mentioned in the video included the Estepona's great food scene and exemplary healthcare located in the westernmost part of the Costa del Sol is set to undergo a significant transformation The current owners, Marina del Mediterráneo Estepona, have proposed an economic feasibility study to reduce the marina‘s capacity from 447 moorings to 288 This project is part of the extension process requested by the Junta de Andalucía The study focuses on reducing the number of moorings by 34 percent adapting lengths of boats to current demand trends and improving energy and environmental efficiency It will also mean much bigger luxury yachts coming in Economic forecasts suggest that €113.4 million in income is expected during the new period with most of this coming from the lease of the moorings (over 18,000 square metres) Other revenue sources include the operation of commercial premises Developers aim to expand the harbour area to provide a full connection to the city including a new entry point from the promenade there is a feel that there are two towns of Estepona – the centre The project also involves resolving road access issues which are intertwined with pedestrian access generating mobility and functionality problems there will be a service station for marine vehicles So, plenty more works are on the cards for Estepona although it should look spectacular once finished ESTEPONA’S Calle Terraza will be converted into a gastronomic market from December 11 to 14 as it hosts the 10th Feria del Queso (Cheese Festival) ‘Popi’ Sabor a Málaga More than thirty companies will participate in the fair which can be visited between 11 am and 9 pm The initiative is a collaboration between Estepona City Council and José María Téllez ‘Popi’, a professional ham cutter who is associated with the Sabor a Malaga brand Sabor a Malaga is a benchmark of quality which can be added to gourmet products of national and international origin The fair aims to raise the profile of the quality and wide variety of cheeses available in the area If you are looking to add local flavour to your Christmas the fair will be the perfect opportunity to shop with 80% of the products on offer originating from the province of Malaga visitors will also be able to pick up local wines to accompany them In addition to browsing the enticing products on the stalls visitors have the chance to take part in tastings and culinary demonstrations and to learn more about how these delicious products are created is taking place at the La Lobilla covered sports centre in Estepona From Friday and is also meant as a showcase of the ancient Japanese sport Estepona is the only location for such an event in all of Spain Kendo in Spain is gathering more followers each year. The Japanese martial art brings together fencing in a far more brutal and visually stunning way with thick sabres made from bamboo that acoustically shock as much as visually This event will also be attended by international and Spanish Kendo masters who have participated in previous years, such as Markus Frey, Mikko Salonen, Kai Markus Lyyrtö, Emilio Gómez, Antonio Gutiérrez and Santiago Peydró. Last year, over 100 Kenshis participated in the event The partner of a Local Police officer in Estepona who filed a complaint against the town's mayor for alleged sexual harassment has testified in court The witness made the testimony on Monday 2 December following the allegation that accused García Urbano of paying 2,000 euros a month to a police officer in exchange for a sexual relationship and threatening that person that their "career would be over forever" According to the lawyer for the private prosecution "the witness told in detail the ordeal that both the victim and herself have gone through at various times" "The judge has considered it appropriate to call her after listening to both parties and has valued that it is a piece of evidence that sheds light on what happened," he said "The court already has in its hands all kinds of testimonial documentary and graphic evidence," Granados added Regarding the complainant's medical condition the lawyer pointed out that he is on leave and on very strong medication with his psychiatrist recommending they don't return to the municipality of Estepona alleges the Estepona mayor paid the Local Police officer 2,000 euros a month in exchange for sexual favours The mayor allegedly threatened the police officer to keep quiet about the arrangement or else their "career would be over forever" The mayor decided to put the matter in the hands of a team of lawyers and voluntarily appeared in court to give his version of events He wrote on his social media that his statement demonstrated the "absolute lack of foundation of the complaint" The councillor alluded to an "inadmissible and unfair campaign" to damage his "personal dignity and his career" as mayor said they have "all the evidence that proves these events took place" "My client only asks for justice and that no one should ever have to live through a similar situation," he added