Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
One local family is still reeling from the effects of Storm Francis which caused flooding on the Costa del Sol in January. This included overflowing rivers near Manilva.
Adam, his wife, and their 18-month old baby lost almost everything, including furniture, appliances and household necessities. Their home was rendered uninhabitable by the devastating floods, and this is one of their darkest times.
The local community and the tight-knit expats quickly responded, led initially by the Rose & Thistle Bar in Puerto de la Duquesa. The popular British pub held an emergency fundraiser quiz night. Organisers described it as a “last-minute, but vital effort” to help the family return to normal.
Customers and supporters came out in droves to support the event despite the short notice. They participated in the quiz and made monetary donations as well as contributing household essentials. The night proved a resounding success, raising €890 on the evening itself, with additional donations pushing the total delivered to the family to 1,050. €.
The pub also collected clothing, bedding and basic items such as a heater. Organisers continue to welcome further donations of monetary support or goods—such as fridge freezers, TVs, beds, or everyday appliances—as the family’s needs remain extensive, with no furniture beyond beds and major losses in clothing and footwear.
Pub representatives, after meeting the family personally, described the situation as being “worse” than they could have imagined. This revealed the extent of the damage.
Adam and his family expressed profound gratitude in a heartfelt message to the Rose & Thistle:
“From the bottom of our hearts, we want to say thank you to everyone at The Rose & Thistle Bar & Restaurant for the incredible kindness, generosity, and support you have shown us. […] Your kindness has meant so much more than you can ever imagine. It’s not just about the funds—it’s about knowing we are not alone, that our community cares, and that there are people willing to stand beside us when everything feels lost. “[…] Rose & Thistle, you are more than a bar—you are a community with a heart.“
The Rose & Thistle continues to serve as a drop-off point for donations, with staff committed to delivering everything as quickly as possible. This show of community support shows how the Puerto de la Duquesa/Manilva area has a strong sense of unity and compassion.
You can contact us to learn more. the Rose & Thistle Donations can be made directly through the charity.
