Carol Woolnoth, the much-loved president of Age Concern Marbella – San Pedro, is retiring after six successful and energetic years, but will continue working hard to support the charity’s vital work.

Age Concern Marbella – San Pedro has ushered in a major new chapter on June 17 with a warm farewell and hug for retiring president Carol Woolnoth and an enthusiastic welcome for her successor, Ophelia Smith.

Carol has led the charity for the past six years, taking over from founder and first president Tom Burns. During her tenure she has strengthened the organisation’s position as a valued and integral part of the Marbella and San Pedro community, providing essential support to the older English-speaking expat population.

While stepping down from the high-profile role of president, Carol will remain actively involved with all aspects of Age Concern, focusing on training, induction and home visits.

The charity’s core mission is still unchanged: to combat the loneliness and isolation that many older people fear as an inevitable part of ageing. As the organisation continues to grow, its commitment to the English-speaking senior community on the Costa del Sol stays firmly at the heart of everything it does.

“Thank you, Carol, and our very best wishes to Ophelia,” the charity said. “We look forward to the future under your leadership.” Ophelia brings a wealth of practical knowledge with her, being totally bilingual and fully integrated into both the Spanish and English-speaking communities. She will undoubtedly be a massive benefit to the Age Concern community.

Summer schedule update

As summer gets underway, some activities will be temporarily suspended to give the charity’s hard-working volunteers a well-earned break. However, the lovely folk at Age Concern are absolutely determined to keep ever-popular coffee mornings going through all the summer months, as well as the Helpline (689 35 51 98), open every weekday from 10am to 6pm.

Holidaymakers looking for a friendly break from the sun, sea and sangria and some refuge in the air-conditioned cafes of Marbella and San Pedro are warmly invited to pop in and join a coffee morning for conversation and companionship. For details of your nearest session, simply call the helpline on 689 355 198.

Local families are preparing for an emotional gathering this weekend. Club Alhpatin has organised its annual end-of-course festival on Sunday 21 June in Alhaurin el Grande. Organisers are dedicating the entire event to Victoria Hart, the 33-year-old British woman killed in the town earlier this year.

Club Alhpatin serves young skaters in Alhaurin el Grande

This artistic roller skating club focuses on children and teenagers in the area. Participants train regularly and join regional competitions plus special events. Earlier in March 2026 the club hosted its first 8M Trophy with more than 100 skaters from nearby towns, including Torremolinos and Alhaurin de la Torre. Such activities build skills and create strong community bonds among young athletes and their families.

Victoria fell victim to domestic violence in January 2026

Victoria Hart was taken from us on January 24 inside her home in the La Paca area of Alhaurin el Grande. Her former partner carried out the attack with a knife and later confessed after surrendering at a nearby prison. Authorities recorded the case within the VioGen system for gender violence victims. A restraining order already existed against the perpetrator. Three young children witnessed the horror and now face life without their mother.

Town leaders declare mourning for Victoria Hart

Officials reacted rapidly after the killing. Mayor Anthony Bermudez announced an official day of mourning on January 26. Residents gathered to show support and condemn violence against women. Many described Victoria Hart as well-liked locally. Her British nationality added another layer to the shock felt across both the expat and Spanish communities. National counts listed this incident as one of the earliest femicides in Spain during 2026.

Festival becomes tribute to local victim

Club Alhpatin members decided to honour Victoria through their seasonal celebration. Young skaters will perform routines while families reflect on loss and resilience. This choice turns a standard end-of-season party into a deeply meaningful occasion for the community. Attendees expect performances, recognitions, and moments of remembrance at the local sports facilities.

The event starts at 11am at the municipal sports centre in Alhaurin el Grande on Sunday, June 21. Entrance costs €2 and all takings will go towards supporting Victoria’s children.