The Gibraltar Magazine November 2021 by Rock Publishing Ltd

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE November 2021 | Vol.27 #01

THE

Miss Gibraltar TO PUERTO RICO

WINTER COOKING

COMFORTING CASSOULET

WALKING INTO WINTER SHOE TRENDS FOR 2021

SCOREBOARD SPORTS WRAP FOOTBALL & NETBALL

UROLOGY GUYS HOLY MOLY IT’S MOVEMBER!

HOW HEALTHY IS GIBRALTAR? INCREASING YOUR LIFE EXPECTANCY

MAGNIFICENT MALAYSIA TRAVEL DIARIES

Corporate Gifts

from the editor

NOVEMBER ISSUE EDITOR'S NOTE Remember, remember the fifth of November, power cuts, land bids, and flies. I hate to be that person, but there are only 54 days left until Christmas when this issue comes out. That’s just 7 Saturdays to get your presents sorted. Now that’s over with – I bring you the penultimate issue of Gib Mag for 2021. The beautiful Janice Sampere adorns this month’s cover, ahead of her exciting journey to Puerto Rico for the 70th edition of Miss World. We speak about overcoming challenges, building confidence, and her unconventional crowning (p. 25). As we settle into snugglier months, it’s only natural that we should reach for more warming dishes. Try this recipe for a comforting cassoulet – the undisputed ruler of the winter stew roost (p. 78). As the world returns to some form of normal, and travel becomes more of a viable option, we can start to dream about trips further afield in the new year. In this issue we’re taking you to magnificent Malaysia, in all its multiethnic, multicultural glory (p. 69). And lastly, it’s Movember! The month where exasperated partners have to put up with their husband or boyfriend looking like an eBay version of Burt Reynolds for 30 days – all in the name of charity of course. Find out what all the fuzz is about, and how you can mo your own way (p. 74). See you in December, for an even shorter Christmas countdown!

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

Furry Friends

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Wolfie

Jack

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Mickey These stylish pups are loving their new Gib Mag leads!

Would your furry friend like one? Head down to 241 Main Street (Masbro) to pick up your very own – for free! Don’t forget to take a photo and tag #GibMagPets for a chance to be featured.

EDITOR: Sophie Clifton-Tucker editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com DESIGN:

Justin Bautista design@thegibraltarmagazine.com SALES: Advertising Team sales@thegibraltarmagazine.com DISTRIBUTION: DHL martin@matrix.gi ACCOUNTS: Fiduciary Group www.fid.gi

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Andrew Licudi Anne Marie Morello Chris Hedley Elena Scialtiel Eran and Ayelet Mamo Shay James Allan and Paul Hughes Joel Francis Jon Lewes Jorge v.Rein Parlade Julia Coelho Liam Anthony Pete Wolstencroft Richard Cartwright Sophie Clifton-Tucker Thomas Maxwell

Views and opinions within articles are contributor's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the magazine. The Gibraltar Magazine is published monthly by Rock Publishing Ltd Portland House, Glacis Road, Gibraltar, PO Box 1114 T: (+350) 20077748 E: editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com © 2019 Rock Publishing Limited. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written consent of The Gibraltar Magazine. www.TheGibraltarMagazine.com Magazine & website archived by the British Library 6

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

content

69 25

08 Hello There: What stigma would you like to break?

55 Art Club: Painting Trees in 4 Easy Steps

10 News

58 Bookish: Our November Book Club

BUSINESS

61 Socks and Eggshells: Janine Sanchez

19 Six Years of Gibrael: GibraltarIsrael Chamber of Commerce 20 Homage to a Businessman: Eric André

LIFE 25 Preparing for Puerto Rico: Miss Gibraltar 2021, Janice Sampere 30 From the Ocean Waves to the Airwaves: Chloe Loddo 35 Ooh Baby It’s a Wild World: Rewilding Project 39 Immovable: Henry Pinna’s Story 43 From Italy with Love: Moranzani

85 43

LEISURE 65 Ageing Like a Fine Wine: Older Vintages 69 Magnificent Malaysia: Travel Diaries 74 The Urology Guys: Holy Moly, It’s Movember Again! 76 The Scoreboard 78 Winter Cooking: Achieving Bonhomie In Your Kitchen 80 How Healthy is Gibraltar? 82 Walking Into Winter: Shoe Trends

REGULARS 86 Recipes: Sheesey Pasta & Chocolate Lava Cake

SCENE

88 Information

46 Whispers From the Universe: Georgina Morello

93 #GibsGems

49 Painting with Purpose: Aimee Diaz

95 Coffee Time

52 Are We All Romantic Readers?

94 Kids Korner Don't forget to find the Hungry Monkey!

COVER Creative Director/Makeup/Styling: Deepak Ramchandani Photographer: Alastair Sanchez Assistant: Mark Clancy & Shyanne Azzopardi Hair: Blush Hair & Beauty Model: Janice Sampere

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

hello there

WHAT STIGMA WOULD YOU LIKE TO BREAK?

Mark Montovio, 53 Artist, Therapist, and Educator Gender stigma is one of the most harmful, causing much distress to young and old alike, and often leading to severe mental ill health, including depression and suicidal ideation. Gender related expectations and restrictions either way, the pink/blue divide, have no place in today's society.

Nicole Byrne, 51 Supported Employment Practitioner, Advocate There is a need to change the culture of workplaces and the attitudes towards social inclusion of diverse groups, to improve employment opportunities and outcomes. People with disabilities bring to the workplace their own unique set of skills and qualities; Employers need to realise that they are excluding a big source of untapped talent!

Want to see yourself or your team featured here? Get in touch at editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com and we'll send you our monthly question! 8

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

hello there

Monique Grambow, 37 Music Teacher & MBS Wellbeing (Gibraltar) - Mind Body Soul The first one that comes to mind for me is the stigma of mental health, which is the reason why I passionately supported the Mental Health Awareness Event on Friday 8th October. The purpose of this event was to normalise the need to nurture our mental wellbeing in general as a lifestyle, and promote holistic tools that will help maximise our state of mind and body; fitnes, creative expression, breathwork and yoga as an example. Whether a person is born with a condition, develops it through a traumatic experience or simply lack the awareness of mental management and stability on a day-to-day basis, we are all faced with mental challenges at some point in our lives and need to feel safe and comfortable seeking the help we need without been labelled or identified with our situation later in the future.

Jeanette Ochello, 41 Legal Secretary In my opinion one of the main stigmas that society needs to get over is towards people affected by learning disabilities. Such will often face negative attitudes and behaviour from others and I think society should educate themselves to be supportive, inclusive and particularly careful with their words and actions. Everyone has feelings and being accepted by society is not always the case.

It can easily become a vicious cycle as stigmatising creates an even bigger barrier by diminishing our progress as it discourages the individual to seek help due to the repercussions it may have on their reputation. More so, we are constantly evolving and transforming through our experiences trying to become better each day, and it is through these challenges that we are given the opportunity to grow and develop a deeper awareness and improved mindset. At the end of the day, we all strive to maximise the quality of our lives and I believe it is by giving our mental health the care it deserves that we can achieve this.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

news ADVICE TO BLUE CARD HOLDERS The position is that once Gibraltar left the European Union, ordinarily ALL third country passports would be liable to be stamped on entry and exit from Schengen. While a new treaty is negotiated, bridging measures unilaterally extended by Spain meant that passports of those holding a red Gibraltar identity card or a blue Gibraltar civilian registration card were not being stamped. However, on 1 October the United

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Gibraltar Cat Welfare Society is looking for volunteers to help

Kingdom introduced new rules under which EU nationals can no longer enter the UK with their identity card alone and required a passport instead. This change was followed by the systematic stamping of blue card holding UK nationals seeking to enter the EU through Gibraltar.

will count as one of the 90 days allowed in Spain 180 visa-free. The Government has raised the matter with UK and Spain and understands that different options are being looked at.

The advice to EU blue card holders is to take their passport when crossing the border. The advice to UK blue card holders is to ensure that when stamped on the way out, also be stamped on the way back into Gibraltar. This

feed and care for their cats. If you’re genuinely interested and are able to spare around 2-3 hours a week, please contact them on Facebook: Gibraltar Cat Welfare Society. Thank you.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

news NEW BICYCLE RACKS AT ROSIA ROAD

INAUGURATION OF NEW GBC PREMISES

A further 12 new cycle racks at Rosia Road have been implemented, adjacent to the new GBC premises. This addition of cycle racks provides a total of 24 new spaces for bicycles in an area currently lacking these facilities.

Last month, Chief Minister Fabian Picardo attended the official opening of GBC’s new premises on Rosia Road. Speaking at the event, the CM said: “The fact is that we are here not to celebrate a new building. The reality is that we are here to celebrate the men and women who make broadcasting in Gibraltar a reality every day. It’s a tall order to deliver a service, any service, every day of the year. And GBC has been doing that every single day of the year, without exception, since the 16th February 1958 when Radio Gibraltar first started transmission.

This adds to the growing stock of bicycle parking in Gibraltar and further encourages alternative and sustainable modes of transport locally. The uptake of these new racks will be monitored and reviewed, and redistributed to other areas if supply is notably lower than demand. The Minister with responsibility for Transport, the Hon. Paul Balban said: “I am extremely pleased to continue the roll out of bicycle infrastructure throughout Gibraltar. This area is close enough to New Harbours Industrial Park and the newly opened GBC Headquarters putting bicycle parking facility nearby. Bicycle parking improves the take up of cycling in use which will potentially mean less cars or motorbikes on our roads.”

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

“Television has now been with us for sixty years next year and as the public service corporation we now know since 1963. Now you embark on a new journey in this place as the demands of what you do required the seminal change we have invested in. In this new facility, broadcasting has come of age for this time and with a new generation of professionals.”

news PUBLIC EVENTS MOVE ONLINE Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, can confirm that the Christmas Festival of Lights and the New Year’s Eve Celebrations this year will once again be moved to a broadcast and an online event. Due to Public Health COVID-19 guidelines and keeping to social responsibility, the format for the annual events will be different from previous years. The production of both events will be pre- recorded prior to airing on Friday 26th November and Friday 31st December 2021, respectively. More information on these events will be released shortly. For further information please contact GCS Events Department on email: info@culture.gi.

AGREEMENT REACHED FOR DEVELOPMENT OF EASTSIDE PROJECT • £90M CASH PAYMENT • £18M VALUE OF REVETMENT WORKS FOR HASSANS CENTENARY TERRACES • £100M VALUE OF REVETMENT WORKS FOR THE WHOLE OF THE EASTSIDE • £30M VALUE OF 100 AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR SALE AT NO MORE THAN £3Kper sqm • £20M VALUE OF 400 SMALL BOAT BERTHS PROVIDED FOR PORT WAITING LIST • £12M VALUE OF FREE PARKING IN SUMMER RETAINED

• £60M VALUE OF REMOVAL OF RUBBLE FROM EASTSIDE • £2.5 BILLION APPROX ECONOMIC IMPACT OVER 10 YEARS HMGoG last month announced the signing of Heads of Terms for an agreement for the development of the Eastside Reclamation. The development rights over the plot have been awarded to the highest bidder, The TNG Global Foundation. The premium payable by the TNG Global Foundation will be the payment in cash of £90,000,000.00 (ninety million pounds sterling), upon (i) the grant of the Environmental Impact Assessment certificates for the construction of the proposed coastal protection project, and of the Eastside Project, and (ii) receipt of outline planning permission for the Eastside Project.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

50 wines by the glass 40 small dishes of Mediterranean cuisine 30 John Mackintosh Square GX11 1AA Gibraltar. Tel: 200 70201 info@vinopolisgastrobar.gi www.vinopolisgastrobar.gi

news GIBRALTAR LITERATURE WEEK 8TH-13TH NOVEMBER

to the Charles Hunt Room and will be streamed online. Limited tickets will be available for those wishing to attend in person. There will also be:

Literature Week includes live events and online content, with school visits and other initiatives part of the offering.

• Daily book reviews in the Gibraltar Chronicle

GCS is also coordinating and producing two days of international talks, inviting internationally renowned authors Lord Jeffrey Archer, Alan Titchmarsh, and Christopher Lloyd on the 12th and 13th November. These talks will focus on their publications, as well as a variety of literary material, with content both for children and adults. ‘An Audience With...’ returns

• Daily book reviews on GCS / John Mackintosh Hall Library Facebook pages • A festival bookshop at Gibraltar’s Cultural Hub, the John Mackintosh Hall. For more information contact GCS Development Unit on 20049161 or email development@culture.gov.gi.

• GBC Radio Gibraltar interviews with local authors • Storytelling at the John Mackintosh Hall Library • School lectures featuring various local writers & focusing on several topics • Bookmark and Poetry competitions

SENIORS TEA FOR TWO A Little English/B2 Projects initiative to help combat seniors' loneliness

Tuesday 9th November, at 2pm (Email to confirm venue.) seniorsteafortwo@gmail.com +350 54008999

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

YOUR ADVERT GOES HERE Want your business to be seen all over Gibraltar and beyond? Gib Mag is the only local publication to have branded stands in exclusive locations, including: ICC World Trade Centre Morrisons Atlantic Suites Frontier Building Airport Ocean Village

As well as businesses and waiting rooms across the Rock. Get in touch: editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com

news CULTURAL AWARDS 2021 – GBC AND ONLINE The Cultural Awards will be aired on GBC and broadcast via Livestream on gbc.gi from the Sunborn Hotel at 7.30pm on Wednesday 3rd November 2021. The Awards aim to celebrate the best of Gibraltar’s arts and culture, recognising potential, ability, talent, and achievement, whilst supporting the community’s cultural development. For further information please contact GCS Cultural Development Unit on 20079750 or email: info@culture.gi.

PUNNY CORNER Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana. Sent in by Maria Dolores. Do you have one to share? Email editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com!

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

news Sovereign Wealth Sovereign Pensions Services - 5,000 pension members - The largest pensions provider in Gibraltar

- Over 350 clients & £390m in assets under advice

SOVEREIGN GIBRALTAR Global Service with Local Delivery Sovereign Trust - Established in Gibraltar - Manages over 20,000 structures, with assets under administration in excess of us$20 billion worldwide

Sovereign Tax Services - UK Chartered Tax advice, specialising in non-UK resident UK taxation & Gibraltar taxation

Sovereign Insurance Services - Insurance offered in 28 countries - Choice of 30+ insurance providers - Offices in Gibraltar and Malta

Established 1987 in Gibraltar 18

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

business

SIX YEARS OF GIBRAEL

Gibrael Chamber celebrates its sixth anniversary.

he Gibraltar-Israel Chamber of Commerce (Gibrael) has recently celebrated its 6-year anniversary. Founded in 2015 by Eran Shay and Ayelet Mamo Shay, Gibrael Chamber has brought the relationship between the Rock and Israel to new heights. “We have put Gibraltar on the map big time, both in Israel and throughout the Jewish world,” says Gibrael Chairwoman Ayelet. “We brought Israeli innovation to the Rock and exposed many Gibraltarians to the StartUp Nation through our numerous Business Delegations to Israel and our events, both in Gibraltar, London and Tel Aviv,” adds Eran. The idea to launch Gibrael came from the realisation that there are many potential synergies between Gibraltar and Israel. Over the last few years, both the

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

Government of Gibraltar and local businesses have been thirsty for innovative technologies and we thought Israel, who is renowned worldwide for being a place from where many leading technologies have emerged, could best answer these needs. For Israeli companies, Gibraltar can serve as an ideal testing ground for new technologies as well as the ultimate gateway into the bigger European markets. There are benefits for both countries, and Gibrael acts as a bridge connecting people and facilitating business from both sides.

strengthen and encourage the bilateral trade relations between Gibraltar and Israel. The Chamber’s activities focus on four main channels of assistance. First, Gibrael acts as the first port of call for Gibraltar businesses or individuals requiring information about doing business in Israel, and viceversa for Israeli businesses enquiring about doing business in Gibraltar. Second, Gibrael acts as an ‘introducer’, connecting relevant business people from both countries. Thirdly, Gibrael advertises and promotes relevant business opportunities, projects, seminars and exhibitions. Fourth, the Gibrael organises professional meetings, delegations, trade-

Gibraltar can serve as an ideal testing ground for new technologies.

Indeed, the objective of Gibrael Chamber is to promote,

business missions and thematic seminars in areas related to the Gibraltar -Israel commercial relationship. Gibrael liaises with the Government of Gibraltar, the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce, Israeli Ministry of Economy, Israeli Embassy in London and with related institutions in Israel such as with the Israel Export Institute, the Manufacturers Association, and the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce. “For me there is also a personal reason why I wanted to establish Gibrael,” says Ayelet. “For many years I felt that I cheated on my home country by falling in love with the country that welcomed us so well - Gibraltar. I realised that by establishing Gibrael Chamber I can act as a good ambassador for both countries and contribute to both of them in this way.” Gibraltar’s unique advantages as a small jurisdiction, significantly reduce time to market and provide cost efficiencies for Israeli companies who wish to access the UK and other European markets. Innovative Israeli companies in the fields of FinTech, CleanTech,

Eran Shay

Managing Director &

Ayelet Mamo Shay

Business Development Director of Benefit Business Solutions Ltd. (+350) 200 73669 general@benefitgibraltar.com

Telecom, smart city solutions, homeland security and more are already here and reaping the benefits of testing their innovative technologies first in Gibraltar, before moving on to the bigger markets in Europe. “Our Chamber has been instrumental in facilitating numerous Israeli companies in establishing operations in Gibraltar including companies such as Playtech,

Minister Samantha Sacramento; we organised and hosted the first ever Capital Markets event in Gibraltar together with the London Stock Exchange; we published the Gibrael Annual Publication for 6 consecutive years (currently working on the 7th annual edition) which has been distributed in over 40 leading international finance

The objective of Gibrael Chamber is to promote, strengthen and encourage bilateral trade relations. eToro, EcoWavePower, Colu, and other leading innovative companies. We also estimate that about 25% of all DLT Licence applicants since 2018, have come from Israeli owned blockchain/ crypto companies. Altogether, the contribution of Israeli companies to Gibraltar’s economy has been significant and since Gibrael Chamber was established, the number of Israelis living in Gibraltar has grown from around 60 in 2015 to over 220 in 2021,” says Eran. Over the past 6 years, Gibrael Chamber has done some groundbreaking work in promoting Gibraltar, says Ayelet: “We took the first ever business delegation from Gibraltar to Israel which was even greeted live on Israeli national TV by the Speaker of the Israeli Parliament (the Knesset); we organised the first historic Gibraltar Day event in Tel Aviv in which we hosted Minister Albert Isola along with over 100 delegates from Gibraltar; we took the first ever female-only business delegation to Israel along with

centres around the world and last but not least, even during the pandemic we remained active and hosted online zoom events with top Israeli companies and people including with the Israeli Ambassador to the UK.” “We are very thankful to the Government of Gibraltar, local businesses and the people of Gibraltar for their continued support of our efforts,” says Ayelet. Indeed, last May Ayelet received the Mayor Award for her work with Gibrael, and became the first Israeli in the history of Gibraltar to receive such award. Gibrael Chamber is constantly working on more events, networking opportunities and future delegations to Israel now that travel restrictions to Israel are being relaxed. To become a member of Gibrael or take part in any of its events, contact info@gibrael.org or visit www. gibrael.org. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

Celebrating 6 Years of Gibrael

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

HOMAGE TO A BUSINESSMAN Eric André.

ric André was a genuine entrepreneur. Born en Neully sur Seine Paris and educated in a famous school of Nantes, he decided from an early age to go into the hospitality business. He came out of school with top marks in cooking and hospitality and joined a pastry shop as an apprentice aged fourteen. “I was paid next to nothing but I learned a lot about baking and making the best cakes of Neully. When I walked away it was to join a top of the range hotel in Paris and I was an expert baker, so it was worth it”. Eric then joined Pizza Hut in the UK and never looked back. He moved on to several large companies which had an international presence in the fast food and casual dinning sectors. His last position as a high ranking executive was with The Capricorn Group which owned, amongst other companies, The Pizza Express Group. Eric was asked to expand the brand into Europe and 22

so he did. He opened in France under the ‘Pizza Marzano’ brand, which he created one day whilst shaving in the early morning before going to the office.

"It was a rocketing success." “I could not use the Pizza Express name in Spain or France because someone had registered that name before us and we had to work our way around that. Out of the blue I came up with the idea of San Marzano, which is the name of the famous very tasty Italian tomatoes used for pizza and pasta sauces. I shortened it to Pizza Marzano and registered the name immediately to avoid further issues. It was a rocketing success.” Eric later became chairman of Pizza Marzano Europe. At that stage, he started and expanded the market in France with two

Pizza Express outlets in Paris; one in Avenue Montparnasse and another in Place de L’Opera. They made profits from day one. In addition, he opened a third outlet in la Place du Capitol in Toulousse. This outlet was arguably the most profitable in Europe. He also arranged for the opening of the Pizza Express franchise outlet in Ocean Village Gibraltar which is happily very much up and running. There is no doubt Eric Andre had a razor sharp brain for the business. As far as the hospitality sector is concerned, Eric was an expert’s expert. There was little this man did not know in the business and yet he was a learner until his last days. Years later he purchased Pasta Nostra in Spain; a small chain of eight outlets in Zaragoza and Madrid. He bought them at the right price and expanded them quickly to over a dozen restaurants in Spain. He had plans to expand the brand into the UK where the market is a lot more active as casual dining GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

business His reply was simple: “Study your product." is part of the English culture. “We shall move into the UK market once we get the rest of Europe sorted.” Eric left the company in 2010 to set up business on his own. I introduced him to Georges Carpentier and they created four different brands of restaurants to be launched in Spain and Portugal. “George and I have put together a great new project of four different brands of restaurants. There is an American/Mexican concept. Then there is An Italian/Argentinian idea. And in addition there is a Peruvian restaurant project. And George came up with the fourth, which was a top-of-the-range Gourmet Burger concept.” The tremendous recession or possibly depression which hit Spain and Portugal from 2008 onwards made the development of this magnificent project unfeasible. “It was the wrong timing, so we decided to pull the plug to move out and went to Africa instead. Firstly to Nigeria where business was good but life was difficult because of continuous security issues.” Eric left Nigeria not before placing a very reliable young executive form France to run things for him. “We needed younger staff and a clever lad to run the show in Nigeria. And Pierre is just the perfect match.” Eric moved to Kenya and really never looked back. He was highly successful and opened Domino’s Pizza and Cold Stone Creamery GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

throughout Kenya. When asked in an interview from a Kenya newspaper which was the secret of his success he simply replied: “I think I am quite good with people. I can be firm, certainly, but let people grow. I normally don’t tell them what to do. Rather I ask them what they think they should do. I worked and lived in many parts of the world which made me more tolerant and open minded.”

You basically need to adapt. In the same interview he was asked to give some advice to young aspiring entrepreneurs. His reply was simple: “Study your product. Travelling to London, Paris or New York and picking up a good idea can look appealing and even sexy. But it really does not work like that. What sells in the UK may not sell in Portugal. And something highly desirable in India may not work in Kenya. And the other way around. Study your market. Just to give you a hint when the great Brand of lollipops Chupa Chups was launched in Mexico they had to put hot chilli inside them because in Mexico much as in India, they are hot spice lovers. You basically need to adapt.” Georges Carpentier was due to join Eric Andre in Kenya in 2016 with a view to starting together some form of new project in Africa. Sadly Eric Andre died prematurely and young due to a devastating disease. His projects and achievements are there for all to learn from and enjoy.

Jorge v.Rein Parlade MBA Business Consultant +350 54045282 jorgeparlade@aol.com

life Creative Director/Makeup/Styling: Deepak Ramchandani Photographer: Alastair Sanchez Assistant: Mark Clancy Hair: Blush Hair & Beauty Jewellery: Cohen & Massias Model: Janice Sampere 24

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life

PREPARING FOR PUERTO RICO

Miss Gibraltar, Janice Sampere, speaks to The Gibraltar Magazine ahead of her journey to Miss World 2021, Puerto Rico. SOPHIE CLIFTON-TUCKER

he wasn’t crowned in the most usual of circumstances, to say the least. At the risk of tempting fate, I doubt we’ll ever see a passing of the crown quite like this one again in our lifetime.

push of encouragement that I needed.”

In 2019, aged just 22 and with a belly full of butterflies, Janice Sampere took to the stage at the then-newly-constructed Europa Sports Complex as a Miss Gibraltar contestant. After a sterling performance, she was crowned 1st Princess, alongside 2nd Princess Jyza Balban and runner up to Miss Gibraltar, Celine Bolaños. Little did Janice know the implications that being awarded such a title would later bring…

Directed by Yalta Pons, a wellknown name in the local dance arena, the 2019 show shook up the traditional format we’re all used to, doing away with the swimwear round in lieu of some captivating dance routines, and with more of a focus on the individual interviews. Speaking to The Gibraltar Magazine at the time, Yalta said: “The interview round plays a significant part in the final score, so beauty becomes secondary. At the end of the day, the Miss Gibraltar show is an event to select an ambassador to represent Gibraltar at the Miss World pageant internationally.”

Speaking about her initial foray into the world of beauty pageants back in 2019, Janice divulges that it was always something she had wanted to do, but had previously lacked the confidence for. “My granny always used to tell me: ‘You should enter this year!’. The year I did eventually enter, my dance teacher was directing the show, which gave me the final

And so began what was to be a highly unusual, but very exciting journey for Janice. She admits that stepping out onto the stage for the first time was incredibly nerve-wracking, but not completely out of her comfort zone: “I’m used to being on stage, having danced for so many years, but I was still nervous! It was different to what I’m used to,

but I enjoyed every minute of it. It changed me; it grew me as a person.” Speaking of becoming 1st Princess, Janice reflects with a smile: “It was a great achievement. I wasn’t expecting anything at all; just to have the experience was enough for me. It’s something I’d wanted to do since I was a little girl, and to rise to that challenge and achieve that title made me really proud.” It was unknown to the audience then, and indeed to Janice herself, that this would be the last time Gibraltar’s most prestigious and widely-viewed show would be seen for at least another two years. Fast forward to March 2020, and the world was plunged into fresh chaos and our daily lexicon consisted solely of ‘Covid’, ‘lockdown’, and ‘banana bread’. Later came the announcement that there would be no Miss Gibraltar 2020 pageant, nor events of any kind for that matter, for some unknown while. As 2021 rolled around, the world 25

life Little did Janice know the implications that title would later bring… had become au fait with the pandemic and all its protocols, so it was of slightly less surprise when – once again – the show that punctuated Gibraltar’s annual socio-calendar was to be cancelled. However, this year also marks an important milestone in the sphere of pageantry: the 70th edition of Miss World. As the longestrunning international beauty pageant, it was agreed that it was important for Gibraltar to continue to be represented - and so, the show must go on! As 1st Princess of Miss Gibraltar 2019, it was decided that Janice should assume the role of Miss Gibraltar 2021, in a pageant-less crowning that was the first, and likely last, of its kind. Janice will represent Gibraltar at the Miss World Final, which will be held on the 16th December in San Juan, Puerto Rico – a dream for someone who had hoped for an opportunity like this all those years ago. For Janice, it was a second shot at being able to represent the hometown she loves. “I received a phone call from Culture, and they asked me to come in for a meeting. I was wondering what it was all about, because it had been two whole years since the show. I was clueless! I attended the meeting and they told me their plans. I was shocked, excited, over the moon!” 26

Creative Director, Makeup/Styling: Deepak Ramchandani Photographer: Alastair Sanchez | Assistant: Mark Clancy Hair: Blush Hair & Beauty | Model: Janice Sampere

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life Janice reveals. “After the meeting I called my parents right away to tell them. They were so happy for me. It was a great day.” Despite her untraditional route in getting there, Janice’s role as Miss Gibraltar consists of much the same duties as in previous years. “The only difference is that with the pandemic, events have been reduced. I’ve attended a few, but not as many as I would without Covid restrictions.” Janice admits. “But this has given me more time to prepare for Miss World.” Janice has been involved with a number of local charity events, such as the Memory Walk in aid of dementia, helping to raise awareness for their respective causes. In addition, His Worship the Mayor, Christian Santos has invited Janice to a number of functions at City Hall, which she has gladly attended.

Many people relocate to Gibraltar and have to leave their families behind due to finances or other complicated reasons; the founder, Nicole Jones, will try to help them in any way she can.” Family is something that’s very important to Janice, who believes: “To have a loving and supportive family is to be really blessed. Seeing other families experience hardships and the work that Nicole has done for those families has resonated with me, which is why this charity stood out for me.” As well as having a big heart, Janice has quashed the ridiculous

myth that you must choose beauty or brains, as she is currently studying to become a Chartered Accountant alongside her current role in internal accounts at PwC. “It’s a career I’ve always been interested in, and one that’s in-demand in Gibraltar,” Janice shares. On the 20th of November, Janice will embark on her journey to Puerto Rico in preparation for Miss World. This will be the very first time she has travelled solo, which is understandably stirring up a mix of emotions for her. “On different days I have different feelings… some days I’m really Miss Gibraltar 2021 Janice Sampere & His Worship the Mayor, Christian Santos.

As part of the Miss World pageant, contestants are encouraged to choose a charity that means something to them for their ‘Beauty With a Purpose’ project. With the help of their national organisations, contestants have set up these charitable projects in over 140 different countries. The project gives these young women the opportunity to use their platform through Miss World to make a real and lasting contribution to their communities, and charities of their choosing. This year, Janice has chosen one that is close to her heart: the EV Foundation. “The EV Foundation was registered this year, but the work they do has been ongoing for quite a few years. They help families in need, either locally or in Spain, or even further afield. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life And so, the show must go on! excited, others I’m a bit scared. In a way I can’t wait for the experience, and the challenge of it, but at the same time I’m like – ‘What’s going to happen?!’ The fear of the unknown! But I’m sure all of us will be in the same boat. “I feel like all the opportunities I’ve had, from events to charity work, has helped me to grow in ways I would have never thought I could. It’s bringing me out of my shell. One of my coaches, Charlene Figueras [the other being Miss Gibraltar 2014, Shyanne Azzopardi] told me of the many years she’s known me, this has been the most significant growth in such a short amount of time – and I feel that. I’m also excited to grow further during my reign, and enjoy everything the experience has to offer, as it will go by fast.” Janice is feeling as prepared as she ever will, although she’s awaiting one more important piece of the puzzle – her dress! “I've bought this beautiful material; I'm just trying to find the perfect designer to entrust with this huge task, and who will be able to bring my vision to life." As she prepares for this next portion of her rollercoaster journey, I’m sure I speak for all of us when I say; good luck, Janice! I’m sure you will do Gibraltar very proud. Creative Director, Makeup Styling: Deepak Ramchandani Photographer: Alastair Sanchez Assistant: Mark Clancy Hair: Blush Hair & Beauty Jewellery: Cohen & Massias Model: Janice Sampere 28

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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life

FROM THE OCEAN WAVES TO THE AIRWAVES

The Carnival Cruise Line clearly holds her in high esteem; back on the Rock for many, many months and still the famous American company tries to draw her back to sea! With pain in her heart, she turns them down and settles in, to hopefully move onto a not unrelated exciting career…

BY RICHARD CARTWRIGHT

t caught me slightly off guard,” admits Chloe Loddo. “I was offered to go back as Cruise Director, which would of course have been lovely, but I’m happily back home now, settled in and enjoying my work in both my fulltime day job and involvement on radio and TV with GBC.” It’s no secret that performance adrenaline has run through Chloe’s veins from an early age, dancing with the Gibraltar Academy of Dance and on stage also in am-dram plays with the late Leslie Zammit. Off to university she went and four years later came away with two degrees in English Literature and, yes, Drama, following her studies at the University of Manchester. Meanwhile, it’s true that childhood sweethearts sometimes live on, and this one has. Local boy Chris Shoesmith was also also into dancing and performing, 30

so they already had very much in common. “Why don’t we try this?” Chris asked. And so it came to pass, Carnival Cruises was evidently the future for them both. Chris joined the team of dancers on board first and Chloe, rather than travelling for a year or so – not to mention missing him so much – joined the ship soon after and became a member of the Entertainment Staff (those are the individuals who play bingo and all sorts of games with you in the lounges during the day and sometimes dress up for other events). “Apart from it being a job I thought I would enjoy, it would look good on my CV,” Chloe tells me.

Clever Chloe obviously made an impression on senior staff onboard and Head Office in Miami also, no doubt, and was shortly after promoted to Assistant Cruise Director - a post she held for four years only interrupted two years in, by flying over to Gib to get married. Now a Mrs, promotion came her way yet again: she became Cruise Director on board her ship Carnival Dream, but also moved around others in the fleet – Carnival Splendour, Conquest and Spirit to mention just three, but busily hopped on and off about half of the 22 or so ships in the fleet during her 10 years at sea, directing the entertainment for the thousands of cruise passengers on each one. She was in charge of all entertainment on

On another very sad occasion we had a ‘man overboard’ situation.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life Chloe Loddo presenting on Radio Gibraltar.

"It's hard work, you are at it seven days a week." board... “Yes, although there are standard ideas to follow you need to be creative and come up with new ones. It’s always important to be aware of your audiences. American cruise passengers like events and game shows etc which are different to what you need to offer when on an Australian cruise.” Having been on a number of cruises myself I can appreciate the Cruise Director is the ‘face’ on board that passengers can relate to and want to talk to about any number of things, even making you something of a welfare officer at times! So entertainment comes under the Cruise Director’s charge although the singers, dancers, musicians and soloists have their own routines to follow but the running of the nightly shows are the responsibility of, and presented by – in this case – Chloe Loddo, Cruise Director Extraordinaire! “That’s true, you have to be up for it every night spending some time on stage presenting the show and interacting with the audience, but it was great fun. The audiences were always very warm.” However, all is not fun. There were some tough times too as Chloe recalls. “On one particular cruise we had some engine trouble which meant we were ‘dead in the water’ for five days! Food had to be hauled on board box by box from one of the other Carnival ships. We formed a chain which included the Captain and all the officers as we brought it all on board from GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life the thought of going back was tempting to say the least. the tenders. I remember even looking up online to see if there was some way of making our own toothpaste of all things, as we were becoming so scarce, but it all turned out fine in the end. On another very sad occasion we had a ‘man overboard’ situation where a young man in his 20s was lost, despite the search going on for many miles, whilst at the same time not forgetting other passengers who needed to be entertained.” Then there was the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and Chloe was the face to depend on again for much of the time, having to deal with a salvo of questions from anxious passengers requiring answers. “We were on an Australian cruise and all of our passengers had to be let off there to get back home, then we needed to head onto Indonesia and the Philippines to disembark most of the crew who were from those countries. There we joined twenty odd other cruise and cargo ships for 58 days just floating and waiting to move on at some stage.” Life on the ocean waves is clearly not all as hunky dory as it seems, not to mention riding Hurricane Irene out at sea on the east coast of the States, as coming alongside could cause more damage to the ship. There’s no doubt it’s been an interesting 10-year career for Chloe. “But it’s not really a forever career in my opinion; it’s hard work, you are at it seven days a 32

week, but it’s been wonderful. At just 26 years old I was one of only three, female Cruise Directors in the company. I’ve travelled all along the west and east coasts of the United States including Hawaii and Canada, been to all of the Caribbean Islands and Mexico, Australia and New Zealand and most of the Pacific Islands and now I’m back home where I want to be. Do I miss it? Of course I do. I’m still young and the thought of going back to cruising and my old job which I loved – after having had a break – was tempting to say the least, but I refused. Sad in a way, but I want to move on, raise a family and try something else.” And it doesn’t look as if it takes her long to get started again! After a bit of a chill out when she returned to the Rock, she did a bit of writing for the Panorama newspaper. Now, she’s happy in her job and has her sights on perhaps pursuing a broadcasting career. “I would love that. I enjoy doing my evening and early morning Sunday shows on Radio Gibraltar – I’ve even had contacts from former cruise passengers from Australia and California who now tune into the station – and presenting the lottery results on GBC Television. I really love that work and would like to do more!” Well, with all that presenting onstage experience on board

cruise ships facing thousands of people week in week out, I would think it a natural progression for her to become one of our regular, local presenters on GBC – on radio, TV or both. She’s certainly made a fresh start and is, at least for now, here to stay. So welcome back Chloe, to Terra Firma! GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

environment

OOH BABY IT’S A WILD WORLD

Whole Wild World is a charity set up in Gibraltar by local environmentalists under the ethos ‘to help make the ‘world whole and wild’ again’. The charity’s foundation and pilot rewilding site is in the Algarve where they are working with the landowner to rewild a 210-hectare plot.

ewilding means allowing nature to restore and recover and, where needed, giving a helping hand. This can be through reintroducing species of flora or fauna that may have disappeared from that ecosystem and restoring balance once more. It can occur on a broad spectrum from fairly simple agroforestry, where local trees and shrubs are added to farmland both to slow or halt soil erosion or provide shade for livestock and also to serve as habitat for local wildlife such as squirrels and birds, to complete cessation of human land use in favour of either active introduction or more passive facilitation of the return of local flora and fauna. Rewilding can even encompass ‘wild’ spaces in urban areas in acknowledgement of some species’ great adaptability to human presence. Rewilding is about small- and GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

large-scale green spaces that will ultimately benefit both humans and wildlife and even help with carbon sequestration, air purification, temperature control etc. both in urban and rural settings and from minute to colossal scale. Nature based solutions, such as restorative agriculture, can also offer communities that have been lost, due to rural depopulation and farmland degradation, the chance to recover and benefit from the revival whether through generating tourism income or simply making an area more liveable for both humans, livestock and wildlife. These are key solutions to our future on this planet which requires us to learn to live alongside and in harmony with nature. Whole Wild World has recently been shortlisted for a funding application by the European Outdoor Conservation

Association (EOCA) in the Wild Places category which went to a public vote on the 15th of October which is set to end on the 29th of October. The winning project in each the three categories will be awarded up to 30 000 euros of funding. This amount would help to set up the local species conservation projects to protect and preserve native Iberian species, including the iconic Iberian lynx. The project will also facilitate the reintroduction of an endangered native breed of horse, the Sorraia. There are already resident groups of Eurasian otter, beech martens and evidence of wild boar roaming the banks of the stunning Foupana River that runs through the land, a tributary of the Guadiana River. The revival of the native Montado cork oak habitat and ecosystem will provide a haven for native 35

environment wildlife, alongside a restorative agricultural approach that the team hope will inspire local farming communities to adopt. The area has undergone an extensive planting programme supported by local government for mediterranean pine agroforestry. These fast-growing trees have been used to help prevent or mitigate soil erosion and alongside other native tree species they can also provide habitat, and foraging and hunting grounds for native wildlife. A European rabbit breed and release program will also benefit

These are key solutions to our future on this planet. the site by providing essential food for the Iberian lynx that have been released near to the land as part of the Portuguese breeding programme. Just 400 km away from Gibraltar, and a popular destination for many local residents, the site is the same size as Gibraltar’s Nature Reserve. There are long-term plans to expand the site and to encourage local landowners to follow suit and rewild their lands too as well as to set up similar projects elsewhere in Portugal, Spain and beyond by drawing on lessons, relationships and experiences from our foundation project. These 210 hectares feature traditional Portuguese village accommodation and nature safari trails into the rewilding site, offering a fully holistic 36

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

environment nature retreat and a chance to experience off-grid living in comfort. This accommodation is expected to be available for bookings from February 2022. As a side dish there is also an old mining complex on the site where copper was mined for many generations which gives insight into our growing dependence on technological facilitators for land use and how the ground beneath us and the world around us shaped our history and social and evolutionary path. The whole site bears testament to our dependence on our surroundings as well as our - at times disastrous - disregard for all but the resources that are of most obvious benefit. By restoring both the cultural heritage and the ecosystem we hope to showcase

our past, good and bad, as well as demonstrating how even today our high-tech inclinations can, with a little effort and rethinking, be compatible with healthy and thriving wild spaces rather than allowing apathy to demand an ever-expanding occupancy and destruction of wilderness. The project is currently seeking public and corporate support for the nature and conservation projects, information on the projects can be found at www. wholewildworld.org. The charity has also initiated contact with universities in the Algarve that already work with some of the mentioned species and hope to forge a working relationship with them to provide opportunities for local students.

Last month Gibraltar schools and Individuals took park in a ‘Walk for the Wild’ where participants could log their daily step count on a Strava leader board. St Paul’s First School took the opportunity for a whole school sponsored walk around town, holding placards with environmental messages they had made, raising funds for the wild. This month on Sunday the 7th of November they are hosting a ‘Climb for the Wild’ 24-hour bouldering marathon taking part in the new King’s Bastion bouldering gym and later at the Northern Defences. To get involved or to sponsor this event, contact the WWW Team at info@wholewildworld.org. © Clifford Issler

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life

IMMOVABLE Henry Pinna's story.

he front door is open, and a voice from somewhere within welcomes me in. Henry appears as I step through the doorway, shirtless and smiling, with the same affable air that has met the countless individuals he has dedicated his life to. A familiar face to most, the many roles Mr Pinna has undertaken over the past five decades share a common thread which has come to define his reputation. He fights for those who cannot fight themselves, and he strives unwaveringly for what he knows is right. While nobody would have begrudged him his retirement, the work that Henry started a lifetime ago continues to this day. As he puts it, he's too old to change his habits now. The group he is perhaps most closely associated with, Action for Housing, recently celebrated its 40th anniversary, with Henry an ever-present feature of the pressure group's efforts to ensure that everyone in Gibraltar live with the dignity to which they are entitled. Born into a working class family in 1945, Henry spent his early years sharing a room with both parents and two siblings in Carreras Passage, with no running water and an outdoor toilet. At the time this wasn't unusual; many lived this way and over subsequent GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

decades the housing situation on the Rock improved in leaps and bounds for most citizens – but the very fact of this progress motivates Henry to help those it has forgotten.

He fights for those who cannot fight themselves, and he strives unwaveringly for what he knows is right. Post-war Gibraltar may not have faced the same challenges posed by the overwhelming loss and economic catastrophe suffered by much of Europe at the time, but neither was it the place we know today. Life was often tough and families struggled to make ends meet. Henry recalls one of his grandfathers, a saddler, playing his mandolin with the Rondalla Calpense - a troupe which went door to door collecting funds to pay funeral or hospital costs for families in the community. I ask if he was inspired by this to help others, assuming he would have been an obvious candidate for early role model in this respect, but Henry doesn't think so, “Not

consciously anyway, but I suppose the genes were there!”. Neither was this the only way that Henry's grandfather served as unwitting inspiration. Dying when Henry was just 14 years old, it was not until later in life that he wished he could learn more about his grandfather's life, but there was nobody left to ask. It's for this reason that Henry took it upon himself to document his own experiences, highlighting the salient facts and deeds that define his life, that his own grandchildren may have these words to read, once they reach that age at which we develop a curiosity for our forebears. He gives me a copy of what he has written – a few sheets of A4, containing a quite matter-offact account of his life thus far, further expanded by 90 minutes of conversation which make my task all the more difficult – I can apply only the broadest of strokes in depicting Henry's life on these pages. As a young man he was involved in the launch of the left wing periodical, Social Action. At 21, the hallmarks that would come to characterise Henry were already evident: his desire to help and inform, as well as a stubborn resistance to being reined in. First the Gibraltar Post and then the 39

life Chronicle refused to print the periodical for being 'too radical', but Henry and his colleagues persevered – painstakingly printing copies by hand for distribution.

The Chronicle refused to print the periodical for being 'too radical'. Henry's view of socialism is defined by the value of contributing to society rather than only taking from it. He tells me the communist states we have seen in practice result from distortions that detract from this basic principle. As he puts it, he would have no issue with millionaires or billionaires, if there weren't so many people living in poverty, unnecessarily. Not

entirely controversial, perhaps, but the young radical's appetite was whetted by his experience with Social Action and, in the years that followed, he joined the Transport and General Workers union, and helped found the Action Group for the Abolition of Conscription, Action for Housing, the local branch of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, the Alameda Estate Tenants Association and the Self Determination for Gibraltar Group. By this point, in the mid 90s, Henry Pinna was widely regarded as an essential cog in the wheel of Gibraltar's society, empowering the public and applying checks and balances where he might. At the turn of the millennium, he was approached by Chief Minister, (not yet Sir) Peter Caruana, and offered the opportunity to be Gibraltar's first ombudsman in what was a ringing endorsement of the work he had so far done. Henry's first

response? “I told him to find a lawyer for the job,” he laughs, “but he was insistent. I then told him to ask opposition leader, Joe Bossano (also yet to receive his knighthood) if he would approve." This was imperative – the seat of the ombudsman could not be partisan or subject to political influence; Henry would work with cross-party approval or not at all. Approval came a few weeks later, although he admits a wave of self doubt made him feel like running away from the situation. “My wife believed in me far more than I did. She asked me: If not you, then who? And pointed out I was doing this for free already.” Henry tells me of his gratitude to his late wife, Elizabeth, who 'not only tolerated and put up with' him, but, was always full of encouragement and support. Together they would have two daughters, Lizanne and Kathleen, a source of joy that fate would turn in part to bitter despair. In 1989, a drunk driver killed Lizanne, who was just 14 years old. The perpetrator was given bail and absconded, with Spanish authorities not only indifferent but resistant to action, and Henry left to pursue justice himself. Years of work involving international lobbying, protesting and coordination with politicians, lawyers and pressure groups were undone in a matter of minutes when, eight years after the fact, a judge threw out the case within minutes, closing the door to appeal.

Henry Pinna

It is in an unhappy context that this father, dealt such a cruel blow by life and such huge disservice by society, took on the role of ombudsman. When so many others would have been forgiven for giving up entirely, Henry took 40

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

it upon himself to establish the office of the ombudsman, both literally and figuratively, and work for change from within the system. For, as he knew all too well, there is at times very little morality in law, and he would strive for others not to suffer as he had. His hectic stint as ombudsman saw Henry study tirelessly in Malta as he prepared for the nascent role, then work through the 'avalanche' of complaints that came his way, barely taking a day off in over three years, during which he says he was so busy he couldn't think. After handing over to his successor in 2003, Henry joined the Environmental Safety Group and was appointed a trustee of Bruce's Farm. Three years later he would be be appointed chairman of the Police Complaints Board. It is astounding that one man can have played pivotal roles in so many crucial organisations and groups that today we take as a given. That he did so in the face of such deeply felt tragedy serves only to bolster the admiration

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

She asked me: If not you, then who? that many feel for him. But even admiration would not cause him to compromise his values. Henry turned down an MBE in 2010 – honoured that his work was valued, but steadfast in his antiimperialist convictions. All of this comes with a cheerful smile, as he reels off quotes from his favourite authors, shows me the figurines he lovingly crafts in his free time (I'm surprised to hear he has any), and delves

easily into matters of philosophy, religion and morality as I struggle to keep pace. Although 'culturally Christian', Henry unsurprisingly rejects the structures and trappings of organised religion and remains confident and resolute in his own ethics and what he considers to give his life meaning. At any rate, he is less preoccupied with the matter of life after death than he is with life before death. And, for all the world's injustice, for all its seeming indifference in our times of need, it is reassuring to know there remain those among us committed to confronting imbalance and injustice in the life we know we have.

life

FROM ITALY WITH LOVE

Husband and wife duo spent their lockdown very wisely, working together on a project which has finally come to fruition.

BY SOPHIE CLIFTON-TUCKER

t started with a seedling of idea, which grew into a sturdy goal, and has now finally come to fruition. Hayley and Nigel Xerri are proud to introduce their high-end leather goods company, Moranzani. We speak to Hayley about the birth of Moranzani, and what we can expect from this luxury brand going forward. What was the catalyst for Moranzani’s conception? It was initially all Nigel’s idea! I used to own Miss Muck, the bikini company, and that was really good in terms of learning how to run a business on a much smaller scale. We then both decided we wanted to work on something a lot bigger together. Nigel is a civil engineer, so he has an eye for detail and knows about different materials. I used to buy a lot of handbags, but the quality was just not there and it used to annoy him. But the real trigger was when we bought his mother a Louis Vuitton purse for Christmas, and within about three months the popper had come off. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

It really shocked us! When you’re paying that amount of money for a product, you don’t expect it to fall apart so soon. We were then charged €50 by the brand just for it to be fixed, which didn’t feel right.

"We wanted to go all out." We then started to look into a number of different brands, and quickly realised that a lot of the products weren’t made where you would think. For example, you would expect an Italian brand to produce their goods in Italy, but that’s not necessarily the case. How did you both settle on the name Moranzani? The name came to us during lockdown. We knew that we wanted the brand to have an Italian name, as all our products were going to be made there, so we hopped on Google Maps and went through all the small towns in Italy. We said each name aloud to see whether it worked as the

name of our brand. Eventually we found Moranzani – we both liked it immediately. What is your connection to Italy? We have both always loved Italy (Nigel’s ancestors hail from Genoa), so that’s where we decided to produce Moranzani. We knew a taxi driver from Naples who we met on a cruise once, and who we had kept in contact with. It was the same taxi driver Nigel WhatsApped when he was planning to propose to me, so we felt quite close to him. We asked him for a list of tanneries and manufacturers in Italy that make leather goods, and we spent weeks sending out emails. Most of them didn’t reply… and this was pre-Covid! I think perhaps because we were a start-up, and a lot of these factories deal with established brands with lots of products. But there was one who did respond… unfortunately due to Covid they had closed temporarily, but they promised to get back to us. And they did! They said as a result of the pandemic, the owner of the factory wanted to give 43

life A lot of the joy comes from the unboxing of the product. back to the community and take on three start-ups – something they ordinarily wouldn’t have considered. After an interview process, we were chosen alongside a Russian company and an American one. It seems like fate! Yes, definitely. What’s more, the programme they used in the factory is the same one that Nigel is trained in as a civil engineer, so all the designs he produced were thankfully in the correct format! They then use these to-scale designs to measure and cut the leathers and so on. Tell us more about the factory you’re working with. Well, I say factory, but everything is handmade - not mass-produced nor machine-made. They sent us photos of all these older Italian artisans at work with hammers, making our bags and products. It was amazing to see. Part of the reason it’s taken us so long to get where we are is we didn’t want to cut any corners, and wanted to make sure we use only the best materials, which this factory does. What products can we expect to see from Moranzani? We have designed three products so far, the first of which is our 44

signature handbag; the Grandiosa. It features a unique v-cut design, metal ‘feet’, and monogrammed with a metal ‘M’. The second product is our Moretti Card Wallet - named after one of my friends! It currently comes in a limited edition colour, ‘Portofino Blue’. There are only 100 in existence, and once those are sold, we won’t produce it in that colour again. And lastly our Julius Pochette, stamped with the signature Moranzani M-motif. We have a fourth one which is being finalised, the Lucciola Shoulder Bag, which should be ready just in time for Christmas. What makes Moranzani so special? Our business model from day one was to come up with the most top-quality product we could. We didn’t want to opt for the cheaper leather or the cheaper hardware; we wanted to go all out.

Another thing that sets our brand apart is our packaging. We have special tags made which sit beneath a luxury bow, wrapped around our quality branded boxes. If you’re spending your hard-earned money on a bag and it arrives in a bit of bubble wrap, it doesn’t have quite the same effect! A lot of the joy comes from the unboxing of the product. We’ve also partnered with a company called Certilogo, who partner with many of the designer brands such as Armani, Versace, and Moschino. They send labels with unique QR codes on them to our factory in Italy, which are sewn into every product that we sell. You scan the code with your phone and it will tell you it’s an authentic Moranzani product. We have poured all our time into Moranzani – because we love it! And we think you will too. Keep up to date with Moranzani at www.moranzani.com, and by following @moranzani on Instagram. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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scene

WHISPERS FROM THE UNIVERSE

Georgina Morello debuts new book about her rollercoaster journey through life. BY ANNE MARIE MORELLO

hispers from the Universe explores one woman’s developmental trajectory throughout the course of her life; from the high highs to the gutter lows, it details her own journey of turning excrement, if you will, into fertiliser. In her debut biography, Morello tackles some delicate subject matters with great honesty and with heart. She speaks of her own experience of sexual assault at the tender age of 16 and goes on to outline the emotional and physical ramifications of that event, resulting in chronic illness. I would like to applaud her for shining a light on this issue. While we saw the #MeToo movement 46

gain massive traction in the US and other parts of the world, in Gibraltar we tend to think that these things just don’t happen here. However, as a therapist, I can tell you that the number of women who have been sexually assaulted is astounding. And here’s the thing - in every case I’ve personally worked with, the women knew and trusted their abusers. This is, undoubtedly, a complex issue but it certainly highlights that a lot more work needs to be done on multiple levels with both men and women. While this may be a socio-cultural issue it is individuals who create the current cultural climate. And in this regard, we are in desperate need of

change. Morello then goes on to tackle the subject of death. Having lost one of her best friends to suicide, she shares her grief and how she adapted to this staggering loss. Despite the suffering, she describes how death has ultimately brought her closer to life. She outlines how her whole outlook has changed and how this tragedy has caused her to re-evaluate how she chooses to live. Faced with the fragility of life, she has fully embraced her sense of agency and chooses to find meaning and beauty in every moment. She chooses to live in eternal gratitude and she shows us that we always have a choice in the way that we assign meaning GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

literature Georgina Morello

Your thoughts are powerful. Your thoughts matter. to our experiences - which is a beautiful thing and one of the biggest takeaways of this book. As the author asserts throughout her piece, it’s the way you look at things that most counts. Your thoughts are powerful. Your thoughts matter. This is backed up by neuroscience. The brain, which could be regarded as a prediction engine, rather than perceiving what is in its external environment, perceives the world through the filter of the individual’s beliefs. Rather than passively perceiving the world, we actively generate it. Given that this is the case, Morello’s insistence that for healing to take place you have to do the inner work and become the master of your own mind resounds with truth. Happiness is an inside job. Of course, the author isn’t suggesting that we ‘confetti-bomb’ our way through life. But we can allow ourselves to feel all the feels, we can honour whatever comes up for us and we can take agency over the meaning that we assign to the events that unfold in our lives. Overall, the words that come up for me upon reflection of the various points of discussion that arise in this book are kindness and authenticity. Morello prompts us to ask ourselves: How can I apply radical kindness to myself? GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

to my thoughts? to my reactions? and to others? How can I accept everything as it and how can I be true to myself in the process? But also, significantly, she gets us to question our limiting beliefs and challenges us to push beyond our boundaries. The author, in boldly asserting:

I have goals and I’m not afraid to achieve them; I have strengths and I’m not afraid to claim them; I have dreams and I’m not afraid to live them; gives us permission to do the same too. 47

art

PAINTING WITH PURPOSE Aimee Diaz, a new artist with a lot of pizzazz and razzmatazz. BY ELENA SCIALTIEL

xpressionist portraiture in black and white is what makes 21-year-old Aimee Diaz tick. An artist who describes herself as ‘having gone through a lot’, she is now settled in a busy job that gets her daily - and nightly - in touch with the human condition: tragedy, drama, and hopefully the serene horizon of happy endings. Art is her escape, and has always been since childhood, she says. She is proud of being self-taught, after a creative and technique-consolidating stint in comprehensive school under the inspirational guidance of Christian Hook, whom she has painted a few portraits of - and entered one in this year’s International Art Exhibition. “After school, I felt that university was not for me, as I wanted to become independent. I had the opportunity to apply for a government position and I was successful,” shares Aimee. Demanding working hours don’t stifle her creativity, they boost it, actually, and while she might be GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

sketching during a quiet nightshift, Aimee will always carve out some free time to paint or draw. She experiments with acrylics, permanent markers, charcoal, crayons… any medium really, as long as she can ‘make a mess’ of it, on canvas, on paper, or even digitally. “My work and my art aren’t separate, and they inspire each other: for example, I painted or sketched self-portraits showing the sadness I see and feel at work, and how it reflects on me,” she says.

I am a black and white person, blocky and bold. Working in a clinical environment is directing her towards painting anatomy, especially bones, in Andy Warhol style, or turning anatomy into abstract to express how someone can be present physically but not emotionally.

Her favourite production is the body of a man featuring vividly coloured scribbles all over his face, its features hidden by them, because, ‘he is here but she cannot see him because he’s no longer there after all, but he was important to her.’ Colour is so far outside her comfort zone, she admits. Of course, she wants to push her limits with it, sometimes ‘overdoing’ it. Other times she keeps it a sort of monochrome, adding a single bright colour to her B&W work, such as the case of one of her Hook’s portraits where the red paint expresses her national pride in paying tribute to her former art teacher as worldwide ambassador of Gibraltarian fine arts genius. She acknowledges Hook for having taught her to distance herself from subject matter and technique alone, towards which students are usually directed in school. Instead, she got the message to focus her creativity on emotion primarily, and adjust the subject matter to inner feelings, 49

art reflecting and balancing the two ingredients of a meaningful painting. Another inspirational artist and art teacher is Karl Ullger, who is monitoring Aimee to drop tips on how to improve and define her style. She painted a colourful portrait of him, slightly cartoonish, and with a sharp Andy Warhol vibe about it. Aimee likes to use a single brush for each painting, so that her brushstroke is quite assertive, whether a palette knife or her iPad pen. Her hand dances on the support, canvas or screen, following the flurry of emotions unleashed by personal experiences: “I am not good at expressing myself in words, but I feel I can do that effectively by drawing. I am a black and white person, blocky and bold, and when I make a mess with my lines, I cherish my mistakes as further validation of my individuality. “Mistakes are meant to happen and usually enhance my work, personalise it and make it unique,” Aimee concludes, to assert a blossoming style and the artistic trademark that she is still seeking to make her own. “Permanent markers, being so definitive, make you search and find ways to turn eventual mistakes into a feature, or learn how to disguise them with further layering.” Aimee has entered several art exhibitions so far, prominently the frontline workers one sparked by the covid-19 lockdown in 2020, with a collection of portraits and sketches of Emergency Room clinicians, later presented to thenMinister for Health Paul Balban. Portraits are indeed her forte, 50

but she won’t make you look prettier just because you have commissioned her with one: “I am not a cosmetic surgeon,” she quips, “so I shall paint you as I see you. I will strive to capture your expression, your feelings, or at least how I feel your feelings.”

Aimee Diaz with Minister Paul Balban

So, if beauty really is in the eye of the beholder, the sitter may turn out portrayed in unexpected ways, and bestow upon Aimee unexpected fortunes, like the time she posted on Instagram her sketch of an actress from The Vampire Diaries, and that celeb liked it, shared and reposted it in her own page, earning Aimee a bunch of followers. Like a true millennial, Aimee is partial to digital art, and she sketches on her iPad, a respectable medium with a lot of potential and a few bumps on the road: “Sometimes it is more difficult than brushes and canvas or paper, and sometimes it is too polished or too perfect for my liking, but I am progressing in exploring it and finding my voice there. In digital, like in traditional painting, layering is the key to authenticity.” Visit Aimeediazart.com to browse Aimee’s portfolio. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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literature

ARE WE ALL ROMANTIC READERS?

More of us are buying physical books. What is it about them that makes them so appealing?

BY LIAM ANTHONY

he new Sally Rooney novel finally arrives at my home. As soon as the book was released, I ordered it from Amazon and within twenty-four hours, it was in my hands. I could have easily downloaded the book on my Kindle, but I had been longing to read Beautiful World, Where Are You, so I wanted the physical copy. Something tangible. The feeling of having company; something that can only be afforded with a real book as opposed to its digital equivalent. Nevertheless, I am a fan of eBooks. However, the ubiquity of screens in our day-to-day lives can often distract us from the reading experience. A book for me ought to be an escape. A real pleasure. Even when I was an English undergraduate, being forced to work my way through an extensive reading list, I loved nothing more than having a copy of a book with me. To take away

the tedium of a long bus journey and the unequivocal satisfaction of annotating my favourite parts in the margins. Nowadays, the physical book means that my reading experience feels more intimate as if the book has my complete attention. It is me, the reader, and the author, an ephemeral relationship, but one that will keep me entertained and challenged regardless of where I am.

I wanted the physical copy. Something tangible. Throughout the pandemic, our screen time increased as many of us were working or learning from home. Dealing with endless PDF documents, emails and Zoom calls,

it is no wonder that the attraction of a physical book has made us all realise its alchemy, very few activities beat reading a book which you can't put down. In 2020, sales of fiction books grew by 16% in the UK. In collaboration with Statista and the World Economic Forum website, 45% of people bought a physical book last year, compared to 23% who bought an eBook. This increase isn't limited to the UK. Similar consumer patterns are apparent in many European countries. In fact, during the first six months of 2021, Spain has seen a 44% increase in book sales, compared to figures before Covid. There have been myriad studies that look at the psychological benefits of reading a physical book, from increasing our vocabulary to decreasing our stress and anxiety levels. These studies often come with quantitative results which affirm GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

literature A book for me ought to be an escape. such claims that reading for thirty minutes can have the same effect on our body as a one-hour yoga session. I am not a neuroscientist; however, I know how my posture changes when I read a physical book as opposed to something on a screen. I tend to lean back; my mind feels as though it is receiving a treat and that the reading process is synonymous with some much-needed downtime. Furthermore, I believe the relaxing of Covid rules has afforded people to venture to their local bookshops again. Amazon has plenty of practical advantages when one is looking for a specific book, however, nothing can

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compare to browsing through bookshelves. This can lead to the most incredible discovery. Independent bookstores come with a sense of community. Not only are books displayed in a way that respects their power and charm, customers can converse with booksellers and listen to their recommendations. Reading can be a solitary act, nevertheless, it has the opportunity to encourage social interaction, something everyone has craved since the pandemic. In addition, it allows us to support local businesses and consume literature more sustainably. As my own 'to read pile' gets bigger, I fantasise about when I will read these books. What occasion will I save them for? Will I tackle The Wolf Hall Trilogy for when I am off work? Will I want to read Michel Barnier's: My Secret Brexit Diary for a flight back to Gatwick to distract me from my

fear of taking off? The preference for a physical book remains unsurpassed. We can see this in the figures presented in this article. Ruminating on my own love for physical books, I have many reasons for why I prefer them to eBooks. One factor is that we live in a society that can often feel disposable, books through their smell and our physical contact with them can create memories. We can return to them, like places or remember where we were when we were reading them. Nothing can dilute the importance technology plays in our lives, especially when it comes to our reading habits. We have digitalised everything from literature to journalism. Yet, I strongly believe that physical books are still indicative of what we currently need. An activity that slows us all down and requires our undivided attention.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

WHAT YOU NEED:

RT CLUB

One medium size brush One small size brush One fan brush Sansodor paint thinner Oil paper/canvas Paints: Sap Green Ivory Black Burnt Umber Cadmium Yellow Titanium White

BY THOMAS MAXWELL

s we come into winter, the temperature starts to cool, and this area opens back up for casual hikers like myself. I have always enjoyed nature and have recently started to develop my landscape painting skills. This month, I will show you how to paint a series of trees.

STEP 1 Now the sketching of the trees is quite simple; it’s mainly just a dome with legs. But the key thing to notice before you get stuck in, is the change of colour. You’ll notice the green is not the same colour throughout; towards the right it is darker and the left gets gradually lighter and lighter. It is important to look at the picture you are painting and understand where the light is coming from. As we went over in previous issues, blocking in is a simple process of putting in the core mid-tone colours first without any detail. Understanding light will help you with the blocking in stage and therefore make it easier later. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

art were painting a Christmas tree template in year 3. This will add some realism to the blocking in and not make it look like a static zone of green. Be careful to clean your brush after each minisection of green to avoid any cross contamination. If you want to lighten the green, try using yellow instead of white, as in return of lighting white usually makes the green duller.

STEP 3

STEP 2 Don’t forget for all these paints below, mix with a small amount of the thinner! This will speed up your painting and it’s always good to go from thin to thick paint. Now that you have noticed the change in the colours, you can officially start blocking in. To help, make sure your brush strokes angle down on either end like you would if you

At this stage you have waited for the paint to dry before starting stage 3. Take your smaller brush and mix green with a bit of the ivory black and the burnt umber. Dab your brush so that you only have a small amount on the brush. Then, very lightly start dabbing the paper/canvas with this brush. Very gently, almost like you aren’t moving it at all. This will make small dots around the trees which act as the leaves underneath, the ones without much detail. This is the next step, for the lighter areas try mixing some green in so it’s not the same colour throughout. If you do this, make sure to clean your brush before continuing.

to have a slightly lighter green than the section you will do first. With the fan brush, use the edge of the brush to create singular leaf-like patterns. Almost as gently as step 3, apply this fan brush movement downwards across the tree. This will create slightly more detailed leaves. Make sure that the green you use is lighter than the section you are doing, remember you can lighten the green by adding yellow to the mix. Add some leaves to the bottom trunks as well so that it flows from top to bottom. Continue adding and looking back at your reference image for directions on light and brightness. Remember, the key is not to be too precise with your leaves, you don’t want it to be too detailed as usually these trees are in the background, so do not require hours upon hours of work. Keep adding the green in spacious areas to allow the dark from step 3 to still be seen. Brushwork can be tricky, as I am finding myself! If you need any help, feel free to contact me on Instagram.

STEP 4 Once the paint added on step 3 is finished and dry, mix some green and yellow 56

Keep up to date with Thomas on Instagram @thomasomaxwell or visit www.thomasomaxwell.com. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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BOOKISH... Join us for our monthly book club!

BY JOEL FRANCIS

elcome to the November edition of Bookish! We are now rapidly approaching winter, and it's chilly outside. What better way to spend the cold weekend mornings than by curling up with a great book and getting lost in a different world?

ME Elton John Genre: Autobiography For Fans Of: Patti Smith - Just Kids What’s in the pages? Born in Pinner, it looked like Reginald Dwight was set to lead an unremarkable life. However, by his early twenties, he was on his first tour of America. He had transformed into the one and only Elton John. Elton's life has been full of enough drama; it might as well be a Shakespearean play. From his tumultuous childhood to being an out-of-control superstar to even trying to take his life in a swimming pool. This is the story of all of that and his friendship with Queen & John Lennon, setting up his AIDS charity and secret drug addictions. Follow this incredibly unique rockstar through his life and all the twist and turns that he encounters on the way - I can say that I personally found it very entertaining and humorous. Why should you read it? If you've watched Rocketman, you probably think that you know everything there is to know about Elton John (or at least the most interesting facts). However, I can guarantee that is not the case. While Rocketman is an excellent biographical movie, it is a highly sanitised version of Elton's life. In Me, all gloves are off when it comes to the darker side of the singer's childhood, love life and temper - he ends up being so bluntly honest it almost comes off as self-deprecating at times. This autobiography is written with humour, wit, and the feeling of a man facing his past in the mirror (both the darkness and its light), making it a highly relatable read that will pull you in from the first chapter. If you're interested in diving deeper into Elton's life past the selected story of Rocketman, then I can highly recommend that you read Me.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

HOLES Louis Sacher Genre: Young Adult For Fans Of: R.J. Palacio What’s in the pages? Another day, another hole that Stanley Yelnats has to dig. Apparently, he is not searching for anything in particular - but building his character. He is stuck at ‘Camp Green Lake’, a boys detention centre where boys build character by digging holes exactly five feet wide and five feet deep. But he shouldn't be there - it's all because of a curse that began with his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-greatgrandfather and has followed generations of Yelnats, including himself. It doesn't take long for Stanley to find out that there is more reason to dig holes than character improvement. The boys are digging holes to find something for the warden - but what could be hidden in the dried-up lake? Why should you read it? I'd be very surprised if you haven't at least heard of Holes before. Over the past 22 years, it has cemented itself as a staple of the Young Adult genre; and it is now a concrete addition to the National Curriculum. But when it was released in the year 2000, it was unlike any other book I had ever read. Sacher managed to captivate my young mind with a mystery of an ancient curse and hidden treasure while also making me confront issues of identity, personal responsibility and the American correctional Bootcamp system. Rereading it last month, I was able to approach it with a new set of eyes and more life experience - but it still gripped me. The way Sacher writes his characters and their interconnecting narratives are beyond impressive and one of the best I have read in any young adult novel. This book allows its characters to become three dimensional by getting them to deal with real problems and consequences, all the while taking you on an amusing and entertaining story. I recommend this book to anybody who hasn't read it; I can guarantee you will enjoy it and get something worthwhile out of reading it.

SUNSETS, SCRIPTS AND MURDER A.M. Ialacci Genre: Crime/Thriller

For Fans Of: Melinda Leigh

What’s in the pages? When Allie Fox is out house hunting one day, she stumbles across another body and another case she has to solve. Up and coming actor Aisha Carter was staying in Emerald Isle, but she had kept it a secret, trying to get away from her fans and the press; however, as Allie starts to investigate, it becomes clear that she might have been hiding more than just her location. Can Allie figure out the case before everyone she loves is crossed off the killer's hit list - or will they meet untimely and horrible fates? Why should you read it? The fourth instalment in the Crystal Coast Cases sees A. M. Ialacci grow as an author and storyteller. Previous editions of the Crystal Coast Cases books have felt like there was a formula to the stories and novels (which isn't a bad thing - just an observation). However, Sunsets, Scripts and Murder literally flip the script on that formula to allow for a fresh writing style and mystery (see what I did there?). While it still feels like a story from Ialacci, it is more multi-faceted and allows the reader to really fall into the world that Allie Fox and her cohorts inhabit. The novel is fast-paced and highly intriguing. The characters are enjoyable, believable, and you really care about them (especially if you've read the previous entries in the collection). Overall, this is a great crime and thriller novel, and I recommend it for anybody who likes a whodunnit style of book!

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

art

SOCKS AND EGGSHELLS Sock dolls are the newest addition to Jan’s Bespoke Art selection of handicrafts and artefacts on sale at Janine Sanchez’s stall at the artisans’ market in Casemates – and they rock! BY ELENA SCIALTIEL

anine is always scouring for novel ideas to add to her catalogue and to challenge her talent and artistry, so, when she came across a YouTube tutorial to make plush dolls, she decided to give it a go. She gave it her own twist, and came up with a collection of cheeky characters in stripy outfits, pom-pom hats and pigtails, with the happy-go-lucky hands-in-pockets attitude that will charm boys and girls of all ages. Janine makes them with cotton socks - the brighter the better - in fashionable colours, with a nod to current trends like the rainbow couple, and the Christmas-themed dolls she is working on at the moment. Another style of doll is made of T-shirt cuttings: these are chubby, friendly types with a mop of curly hair, sitting babies inviting you to pick them up, just as her google-eyed lucky owl does. The permutations on these are virtually endless, and can indeed be customised for commissions, contacting the artist at her stall or GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

art The effect of these works is mesmerising. via her Facebook page. Janine has been creative all her life and proudly self-taught: “I used to keep cuttings from craft magazines, and I still have them in scrapbooks, gleaning for ideas I could experiment with, as I enjoy working with wood and fabric, as well as drawing.” She has been crafting, and researching styles of crafting, as a passion and pastime, which she’s turned into a business some five years ago when she joined the Gibraltar Artisan Market. Making decorative objects with discarded everyday materials such as ice-lollies sticks for jewellery boxes and eggshells for mosaic is one of her ways to keep busy and focused, pursuing the artistic side of her life, while keeping grounded with her other practical chores when she cared for her ailing mother, and now for her sister, who also helps her with the market stall.

refuse and I kept all the cracked shells, painted them in different colours, crushed them in square-like pieces that I saved in small containers where I plucked them from with tweezers to make the mosaic.” Collage and decoupage work well with foil, Janine Janine at work.

One of her most curious endeavours has been eggshell mosaic to make pictures. This is time-consuming and painstakingly slow to pan out, as well as a strain for tired eyes, so it does command a considerable price-tag, but the effects are surprising, since eggshell features unique textures and shine, once varnished. Time-consuming because one has to gather enough shells first – and eat loads of tortilla in the process: “When we were a bigger family, of course we produced more egg 62

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

art says, although she’s suspended the production of this style of pictures because she’s having trouble sourcing her foil: “I used to recycle the wrappings from a popular chocolate-box brand which sells their pralines in vivid colours like green, blue, red, pink, purple, gold…” she says, “and I cut them for my collage, but nowadays their foils feature tiny print so they cannot be reused.”

medallions depicting detailed portraits of birds, in the style of the illustrations you would find in a naturalistic manual or an Edwardian diary, apt to match any interior décor. And last but not least, let’s chase our reveries with a twist on the First Nations’ dream-catcher concept: rounded canvases

featuring two wolves or a unicorn complete with flowing mane, where from leather strings with, respectively, tan or bright pink, orange and yellow feathers and beads, proudly dangle from its frame. A collectible fit for a wedding or anniversary gift, perhaps, or to remind the little princess in your life to always dream big and run wild.

Hopefully she will soon find alternative foil, because the effect of these works is mesmerising. First of all, she draws her subject matter - usually inspired by nature, like flamingos or monarch butterflies - on the back of a black cardboard support, and then she cuts out the parts she will later ‘colour in’ with foil cut in matching shapes, as if making a stainedglass window. Next, she glues the foil cuttings in place, one by one, after having ironed out the creases and minding that they don’t crumple, and aren’t under or overstretched, to avoid caving or ripping. Finally, she varnishes and secures the composition into a rigid frame. Wood is another passion of hers cutting and painting it - and Janine has made a name for herself to begin with, selling her popular cut-outs of Disney characters to decorate children’s rooms, and her hand-cut, hand-painted fridge magnets portraying flowers, birds, robots, and inspirational mottos. When not sewing or knitting, Janine is painting with acrylics. She specialises in dream-like landscapes that could well be illustrations for a fantasy novel, with their world of rosy sunsets and tranquil seascapes. Most striking are her small GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

leisure 64

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

wine

AGEING LIKE A FINE WINE

We worry about getting older. Yet, in the case of wine it might just be what the doctor ordered! BY ANDREW LICUDI DIPWSET

he French say the British drink their wines too old. The British that the French drink them too young. It all comes down to personal preferences. Or does it? It seems that the wine world is generally split between those that like their wines young and those that prefer older vintages. Only yesterday I became unreasonably snotty-nosed, when someone at the next table opened a bottle of Ch Margaux 2010. Did this fellow, undoubtedly well off, not realise it was infanticide opening such a young Ch Margaux? If that outrageously-priced bottle had been mine, I would have assuredly nurtured such a treasure for another few years! In hindsight, having never tasted Margaux 2010, it seems. unreasonable to be critical. The fellow, judging from his expression, was clearly

in vinous heaven. Perhaps he was French. Drinking older vintages requires not just forward planning, but a devilish amount of patience. The drinker needs to spend money now, knowing the pleasure of

The fellow, judging from his expression, was clearly in vinous heaven. opening the bottle maybe years away. Sometimes decades. And that’s assuming they have somewhere suitable to store their wines, for if there’s an unassailable truth, it’s that heat kills wine.

Like us, wine ages. Some romantics consider it to almost living, almost sentient. As years go by it loses youthful exuberance. Tannins become softer and rounder. Fruity flavours are gradually replaced by complex tertiary aromas and tastes. At some time in its life, the wine reaches its optimum drinking window where the wine will improve no more and will start a gradual decline into extreme old age. (Eventually turning to vinegar). Some wines will take decades to reach their optimum drinking window. Others just a few years. Yet others are not worth keeping at all. The consensus is that cheaper wines should be drunk early and that more expensive wine will benefit from at least some bottle age. Personally, I would take this piece of advice with a pinch 65

wine

of salt. I have found that even modest wines can be transformed into something better given a few years of bottle age. I recall when I was studying for my WEST diploma and not being familiar with Australian wines, as most of my fellow students seemed to be, I was left with no option but order several mixed cases from down under as passing the tasting exams without knowledge of New World Wines was improbable. One of the bottles, a modest £5 Barossa Valley shiraz, lay forgotten in my cellar for perhaps five or six years. It should have been undrinkable according to the experts, but unexpectedly had developed into a truly fine wine. A veritable bargain at the price! This is not a one-off example for I have found this to be true of many modest wines. Before global warming many wines, particularly French, were unapproachable young. (Many, like Ch Margaux still are.) Excessive tannins required years in bottle before the wines became drinkable. Now, increasing temperatures and modern wine 66

making techniques they can be drunk earlier. If they’ll ever

Drinking older vintages requires devilish amount of patience. achieve that Nirvana of complex tertiary aromas remains to be seen. (More and more drinkers claim certain wines are not what they used to be and can pinpoint the exact year where the wine went ‘modern’.)

Bordeaux Reds Generally bought to be cellared. As a very general rule start drinking after their tenth birthday if expensive. Drink less expensive bottles (sub £10) sooner particularly if you like fruitier wines. A recent a bottle of Domain de Chevalier 1970 proved to be exceptionally good, and nothing felt old about it!

(An email from a wine merchant just arrived as I am writing this is, offering 1983 Ch Margaux straight from the producer at £1500 a bottle promising it has now achieved its perfect drinking window - billionaires take note!)

Bordeaux Whites Can age well; particularly Sauternes, which like most dessert wines can be long-lived. Dry wines can also be age worthy and I’ve been lucky enough to taste 40 years old Bordeaux whites still amazingly drinkable.

Sancerre (Whites) Drink them young. I could be wrong here as I have never tasted a Sancerre more than 3 or 4 years old. It’s a lovely part of France to visit but if its great wine you are after Sancerre may not be your first choice.

Burgundy (Reds) Can last decades. Producer GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

wine dependant for sure. Probably best after 5 years. I still have Burgundy from the 90s. Probably should open them sooner rather than later.

Burgundy (Whites) A white Burgundy from Francois Jobard 2000 last week proved to me recently how well white Burgundy can age. Wonderful!

Rioja (Reds) Rioja are truly aged worthy. Extremely long-lived wines. The cork will give up long before the wine. The 2010 is drinking well now. From a good producer it should last another twenty years easily.

Rioja (Whites) Wines like Tondonia last for decades. Not sure about the rest of the bunch. Worth experimenting.

Port Their tannins and high alcohol content make these wine extremely long-lived. Keep as long as you can!

How to Store Wine. Temperature about 16°C though anything below 20°C will do. Will age slower the lower the temperature. Humidity about 75% to avoids the cork drying out. Store in total darkness away from vibrations. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

68 Lumpur, Malaysia Kuala

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travel

MAGNIFICENT MALAYSIA Hidden local beaches, a unique dialect, and a nation proud of its multiethnic, multicultural society; this sun swept peninsula with ties to colonial Britain attracts many tourists from around the world for its diversity and beauty. You may be forgiven for thinking I’m talking about Gibraltar, but this far-flung land is slightly larger than the area surrounding the rock.

BY CHRIS HEDLEY

alaysia gained independence from the motherland back in 1957 and has fast grown into an economic powerhouse of Southeast Asia. A country in the process of levelling up from its status as a developing nation to join the modern world, the country’s diverse culture, history, and landscape attracts more and more tourists from around the world each year (apart from last year, obvs). Most travellers with time restrictions will be forced to pick a coast and stick to it. Although those with more time on their hands, like the Japanese during WWII, will want to flank both east and west extensively, with the aim of pushing on to Singapore. For the sake of keeping the article into a two- or three-week trip itinerary, we’ll focus on the

west. Either way, in a lot of cases, you’re going to be starting from the country’s main international airport, located in none other than the capital city - Kuala Lumpur (KL).

It’ll drain three precious hours from your finite existence. Like many Asian megacities, KL is known mainly for its shopping and eating; two activities which are conveniently combined into sections among the many malls you’ll undoubtedly end up wandering around. These malls serve a pleasant tertiary function besides consumerism and keeping your body topped up:

The powerful air conditioning will provide welcome relief from the humidity should you somehow manage to find yourself out in the open air of the city for more than ninety seconds. Those who do not wish to leave with a heavy midriff and light wallet might want to explore the architectural delights, with a host of skyscrapers ranging from the mundane to the magnificent. The Petronas Towers are undoubtedly the most famous structures in the country and (if you’re quick Merdeka 118 incoming) also the tallest. When in a new city, it is standard procedure to get to the top of a tall building and look out at the world below, and here is no different, although you can stop about halfway and walk along the skybridge connecting the twin towers. Terrifyingly (though perfectly safely, I’m assured), the 69

travel skybridge isn’t actually connected to the main structures, instead being designed with the ability to slide about as the towers sway back and forth in high winds. Doesn’t sound like fun? There’s a nice square with a decent view of the towers nearby where you can buy yourself an overpriced meal and look up from the safety of ground-level concrete. There’s even a fountain with a pretty impressive light show. Top tip: KL Tower, from the outside looks like many other towers around the world, but at the top you’ll be greeted by a nicer view than that of the Petronas towers. It’s cheaper too. Depending on the time of year (and your hotel budget) your romantic dreams of gazing across the cityscape at night from your rooftop pool may be somewhat hampered by a controversial seasonal event. The burning of lands to prepare them for agriculture on Sumatra, the Indonesian island to the west, can often leave the KL in a haze of problematic pollution. Unfortunately, not much is being done to address the issue, so this hazardous haze is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. A few hours north of the capital you’ll find the Cameron Highlands, a vast mountainous area dotted with small towns to gain some breathing space from the speed of the city. There are a number of vantage points, gardens, and waterfalls for you to enjoy at your leisure and plenty of misty morning hikes to indulge in amongst eclectic vegetation. This area is home to the largest flower in the world, the Rafflesia Flower 70

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Ever wanted to see a boxing match between a man and a crocodile? and the Mossy Forest, which is exactly as it sounds. You don’t have to worry about trudging through the moss at ground level though, as a wooden boardwalk allows you to view the tropic lands from above. There are also a couple of tea plantations which make for a scenic day out, complete with an afternoon tea tasting session. Our guide confidently boasted that the tea in his plantation was, well, not as good as some other teas, but it wasn’t terrible, he assured us. He was right. Top Tip: Visit during the week, as weekends attract crowds of local tourists. Another 3 hours north and a short boat ride will get you to your first island: Penang. The capital,

Georgetown is the usual eclectic fusion of cultures that you’ll have come to expect from Malaysia, but this buzzing city has the bragging right of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. The place is awash with markets and vendors spilling out into the streets from the colonial houses and shopfronts. A plethora of religious buildings, a number of museums, and a smattering of mansions make for an enviable walking tour itinerary by any city’s standards - and in 2012 the city commissioned a street artist to jazz the place up even further. It’s just as well the place is so nice to walk around, because with Georgetown’s national reputation as a food paradise, particularly for its Chinese and Indian influence, you’ll need those morning/ afternoon walks to burn off those snacks in between elevenses and brunch. After a few days of soaking up art and history, as well as inhaling dim sum, it’s time to take your portly body to the beach. Although Penang isn’t renowned for having GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

travel cut the mustard, you can hire a speedboat, strap yourself to it, and enlist someone else to drive it really fast while you sit back and enjoy the view from above with a parachute strapped to your back.

Georgetown

Parasailing leaves you parched, so as the sun sets you can enjoy a tipple at one of the many bars before heading out to explore the famed night market. Over a hundred stalls selling everything from food to tat stretches along the main road to fill all your souvenir-based desires. After a couple of nights, you’ll likely have had enough, so it’ll be time to head south to Langkawi.

Penang the nicest beaches in the country, there are a few gems to be found on the northwestern coast of the island. As you enter the national park Teluk Bahang, you’ll either have to charter a boat (for about ten pounds) or walk along the coastline until you reach Teluk Duyung, otherwise known as Monkey Island. This is a quieter, whitesand beach with water that you can actually see your feet in. It’s worth a visit before or after heading to some of the more touristy places on the map. I must mention Batu Ferringhi because of how famous the place is. This used to be the goto area for tourists in Malaysia, although years of development GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

have attenuated the scenery somewhat. In place of an isolated paradise, you’re gifted with the plethora of activities that come as a result of heavy tourism, and the hotels remain relatively cheap through fierce competition. While renting a jet ski, you’ll be warned of the heavy penalties incurred for driving too fast and tipping it over, but when you hand it back, the vendors will eagerly ask you your top speed. If speeding along the water doesn’t

You’ve got a couple of options here. The boat is slightly cheaper and comparatively more friendly to the environment, but it’ll drain three precious hours from your finite existence. For £20 or £30, you can take a short flight. As soon as the seatbelt signs flick off and you settle in for the long journey, they’ll ping back on and the captain will inform you that the descent has begun. You’ll have basically time travelled to your new island with otherwise wasted hours to kill sitting around in your hotel room trying to find a Wi-Fi signal. Priceless. As an archipelago of 99 islands, you’ll probably want to partake in 71

Langkawi, Kedah

travel one of Asia’s many island-hopping tours. These are almost always a pleasant day out, and Langkawi is no different. Spend the day exploring more remote beaches and islands, with ample time to sunbathe on each, in between diving from the boat into the sea for a spot of snorkelling (although the waters around here are not the clearest). The main island has seen a boom in tourism over the last thirty or so years, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Rent a motorbike each day and explore waterfalls ranging from a powerful stream of cascading glory to a pitiful trickle of moisture making its way down a rock face, swim in the pools and listen to the locals tell tales of fairies and horror stories of crocodiles… On the subject, Crocodile Adventureland is an attraction to be avoided by those with a morsel of empathy, but a must-see for those who care more about their own entertainment. Ever wanted to see a boxing match between a man and a crocodile? Me neither. The Oriental Village is a must stop shop for all of your batikbased clothing needs. A dotted sartorial design that’s origins are hotly disputed between Indonesians and Malaysian. This is also your chance to ditch the motorbike and substitute it for a Segway, speeding past the crowds in search of a shop that offers a better discount than the last. If you sit down for a moment, you’ll notice some charming local displays. Snake charming, to be exact, as well as Silat performances (a regional martial art), and kite flying demonstrations. All in all, a fun day out. 72

For a reminder of being at home, take the cable car up to the SkyBridge and enjoy the views of this beautiful island from above. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Thailand as well as Langkawi’s outlying islets. Langkawi’s charm is the perfect way to end your stay in this enchanting country. As you travel home, you’ll reflect on how easy it has all been. There’s little in the way of a language barrier, bartering is not as fierce as in other South East Asian countries, and along with the quirks and cultural anomalies of each place you visit that add up to a unique experience, the breathtaking and eclectic scenery will leave you with a holiday you’ll never forget. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

Victory Suite, spacious and elegant. From light lunches to ine dining with breaks tuned to your needs. *We cater for every possible dietary need.

Bookings events@rockhotel.gi | +350 200 73000 | www.rockhotelgibraltar.com

health

BY JAMES ALLAN AND PAUL HUGHES (Consultant Urologists)

Holy moly, it’s Movember again! Put those razors away and get your man down to the doctor, the gym, his old team or simply chatting to friends. But what is Movember, and what's all the fuzz about?

ovember is a global charity that highlights challenging the status quo of men’s attitudes to their health and research about men’s health issues, specifically mental health and suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Why a month when women’s health gets a day or at best a week? Well, we all know the men in our life and nothing gets done in a day, or even a week, so giving them a month allows the message to get home and a whole month of raising funds to make a real difference! Show me a man who can grow a moustache resembling Burt Reynolds in a week and I’ll want to dope test him!

How will you Mo this Movember? So hit the Movember website and join in the fun! 2021 has been another challenging year for all of us, and we need your help more than ever to stop men dying too young. Whether you grow a moustache, take on the Move challenge, get your friends together for a virtual event or create your own challenge (we call it Mo Your Own Way), there are more ways than ever to have fun and stay connected while raising muchneeded funds for men’s health. How will you Mo this Movember?

GROW Try the Trucker. Rock a Regent. Cultivate a Connoisseur. More than just follicles on your face, your moustache is a ribbon. With it, you have the ability to remind people of the importance of men’s health, and urge them to take action with a donation.

MOVE How you run or walk is up to you. Take it fast, take it slow. Push your limits outside (or push ‘go’ on the treadmill). 60km over the month for the 60 men we lose to suicide each hour, every hour. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

health HOST Host in-person or online. Think big. Think small. Think delicious, competitive or creative. It’s all about bringing people together to have fun while doin’ good.

MO YOUR OWN WAY A choose-your-own-adventure challenge, epic in scope and scale. You need imagination, determination and fire in your belly. It’s an open-ended invitation to test your limits in the name of men’s health. And have a ton of fun while you’re getting it done. Whether it’s a test of physical endurance or a not-so-sweaty pledge to kick a bad habit – it’s whatever Mo Your Own Way means to you

that every suicide directly affects 135 people – that’s friends, family, colleagues, and the communities in which we live. On top of that, when somebody is bereaved by suicide, they are themselves at greater risk of taking their own life. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Suicide is potentially preventable – with the right support and an open and

Every suicide directly affects 135 people.

of exercise and endorphins to cleanse the mind and avoiding the old enemies who disguise themselves as companions on this lonely road, alcohol and drugs While progress has been made in recent years to change the discourse and help people open up about how they feel, there’s still a long way to go in tackling the stigma surrounding suicide. The high rate of suicide amongst middle aged men over the past decade serves as a poignant reminder of why CALM will continue to lead a movement against suicide.

supportive society, everyone can feel there are reasons to go on. To stay.

So remember remember CALM and Movember, and let’s help to change Gibraltar!

The colossal value of friends, real conversations and social structure, the natural beauty

For more information or to get involved, visit thecalmzone.net and movember.com.

Another great charity to hook up with is CALM; Campaign Against Living Miserably. Recently, the Office for National Statistics released the figures for suicides in the UK for 2020. It showed that suicide rates have declined from 2019. We must be acutely aware that we must treat these figures with caution and remain vigilant to the evolving mental health crisis that have arisen over the last 2 years. Most importantly, we must remember that despite this decline, the sad reality is 115 people still die by suicide in the UK every week – with 75% of those deaths being male. That’s far from ok. There’s a life behind every single one of those deaths, young or old – a person with friends, family and a community that will forever feel that loss. The effects of suicide are shattering. Research has found GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

sports

THE SCOREBOARD

The sports news is coming thick and fast on the Rock, with things finally feeling like they are back to normal after the delays, postponements and uncertainty that have coloured the past 18 months or so. We may not yet be entirely in the clear with regards Covid-19 and the crippling effects it has on every aspect of our lives, but Gibraltar's athletes finally having had the freedom to get up to full fitness and hit the ground running as the regular season gets underway across a multitude of sports and leagues.

NETBALL Nothing for it but to make hay while the sun shines, and Netball Gibraltar had an action packed few days, sandwiching four Europe Netball Open fixtures between a further two invitational games against the Northen Ireland squad. With the Northern Irish side ranked 11th in the world, this double header was always going to be real challenge for the Gibraltar Campions – although the Rock's women are no slouches, coming in at 32nd in the world ranking themselves. A 16-70 loss in their first invitational was a fair enough reflection of the action, with the visitors ruthless in attack and the home side perhaps caught a little off guard. However, the more important games from our perspective were always going to be the Open fixtures and an absolutely dominant display against Switzerland in their first of those four games lifted spirits in the 76

Tercentenary Hall where the action was taking place. The Campions kept up the pressure throughout as they switched roles from their outing against Northern Ireland, eventually beating the Swiss side 74-18. Next up, the United Arab Emirates took to the court and a nailbiting first half saw Gibraltar go into the break just six behind, at 19-25. The UAE did manage to open the gap in the scoring in the seonc half however, 34-49 at the final whistle, but a solid enough performance for Gibraltar to build on. A match against Malta followed and Gibraltar were in control throughout, looking comfortable as they pulled away early on to a 23-9 lead at the break. More of the same in the second half saw them put up a 50-15 win on the board. Isle of Man were the final challengers – a side with whom Gibraltar share a great rivalry, that has seen many games go right down to the wire. This time

it would be no different and the first half ended as close as could be, with the English side only just ahead at 23-24 and all signs suggesting it was anybody's game in the second half. Gibraltar inched ahead at 41-40 with minutes to go, but alas, a string of misses just when it mattered most saw the Isle of Man come away winners with the final score 41-47 in what was a thrilling but ultimately disappointing game for the home fans. The final standings saw the UAE Falcons deservedly top the table with their first ever gold at an international open, finishing unbeaten with a string of impressive performances. Gibraltar had to settle for third and will feel that second place was in their reach, as the Isle of Man just about pipped them to silver. It still wasn't time to rest though, a final game against Northern Ireland saw an improved performance in all areas, and although the visitors won again, it ended with a more respectable 20-51 scoreline. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

sports FOOTBALL Over to football, and World Cup qualifiers rolled around again, with Gibraltar fielding a young side against Montenegro – a number of key players being unavailable meant manager Julio Ribas had a depleted squad to choose from and it wasn't the strongest performance we've seen from the national side, although these games do provide the opportunity to bed in a few of the youngsters. Gibraltar fell to a 3-0 defeat to Montenegro before having to steel themselves for an away match against three time World

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Cup finalists, the Netherlands. Manager Frank De Boer's unkind words about Gibraltar's 'anti-football' in his post-match interview following the two sides' last encounter was seen as bizarre by many – especially considering the Dutch came away 7-0 winners – but they suggested the Oranje wouldn't be taking it easy this time round. Indeed, it was a game where Gibraltar would be looking for silver linings, and we certainly got one. Sure, the Netherlands scored six (one better than last time, Frank!) and this was due to debutant, Bradley Banda giving

the rock something to cheer about with a fantastic penalty save against none other than Barcelona's Memphis Depay on his first appearance for the senior side. It wasn't Banda's only save of the game and the youngster has added his name to an increasing pool of talented, local keepers that will challenge for selection. 6-0 to Holland, but a result that Ribas' side will take in their stride as they regroup for this month's games against Turkey on November 13th and then Latvia on the 16th.

WINTER COOKING Achieving bonhomie in your kitchen.

BY PETE WOLSTENCROFT

have never believed in the concept of comfort food. If you are hungry and you eat something, surely that must be a source of comfort. I do, however, believe that the warmer months are more suited to simple salads and grilled fish, while the colder, darker months are more naturally home to sustaining, slow-cooked stews. It really doesn’t matter if you prefer to think of them as daubes, hotpots or stews, they are all pretty much the same. They feature cheaper, fattier cuts of meat braised in liquid - by which I mean beer or wine - for a long time, so that connective tissues and fats break down to form a luscious, shiny sauce. Complete wintry alchemy is achieved by the 78

addition of the starch that leaches out from beans and pulses, so that the sauce occupies a new state of matter, somewhere between a liquid and a solid. This is my kind of food. To eat these dishes in August would entail spending the rest of the day sweating uncomfortably and feeling lethargic. But on a cold Sunday afternoon in December, a lunch like this promotes a feeling of bonhomie and a tendency to indulge in post-prandial snoozing. The modern mania for avoiding fat means that the cuts of meat most suitable for slow braising are often the cheapest. These include: pigs’ cheeks, lamb neck chops and beef short rib.

These dishes will bubble away happily in: red wine, white wine, stout or pale ale. In an emergency, water will probably also do the job, but good household management prevents such disasters. As a rule, the longer you cook this kind of dish, the better the result. But there are limits. With pigs’ cheeks, about two and half hours is the sensible maximum: the dish will not improve with further time in the oven. With the fattier cuts of lamb, I recommend between four, and four and a half hours, and with beef short ribs, five hours is the sensible cut off point. I sincerely believe that the vessel in which these stews are cooked makes a difference to the taste. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

leisure I always use a heavy, cast iron, lidded casserole dish with an enamel finish. But these dishes do not have to be expensive. (You all know to which brand I am referring.) Iron is one of the most common elements on earth and, as enamel is simply powdered glass that has been baked on, there is no reason why your casserole should eat up too much of your cash. I use a cheap German brand, which was reduced in a January sale to less than the price of a couple of cocktails. This is one of those very rare occasions when a cheap copy is unlikely to be any different – in terms of quality – from an expensive brand. At the end of the day, cast iron is cast iron and enamel is enamel.

This is my kind of food. Despite my Lancashire roots, I champion the cause of cassoulet as the undisputed ruler of the winter stew roost. A quick online search will show many different versions, with a host of potentially expensive ingredients. But stews are nothing if not adaptable. If you can’t get your hands on confit duck legs, then omit them. This adaptability is why I never get involved with the scientific precision of baking: my preferred style is to throw a bit of some unspecified extra ingredient into the mix and to see if it affects the outcome.

Ingredients • Enough sausages to feed your chosen quartet. (The only point I would make here is that half of them should be something traditional like Cumberland and the other half something spicier such as Merguez, with all their North African spiciness.) • 2 medium sized onions – finely sliced • 4 large cloves of garlic – also finely sliced • One tube of tomato puree • 2 tins of cannellini beans • I glass of dry white wine • Any other seasonings you fancy: I always use anchovies but am aware that not everybody likes these polemic piscine additions. • Olive oil for the frying

Method 1. Brown the sausages in batches and then remove from the pan. (This will make no difference whatsoever to the taste of the finished dish, but pallid sausages do little to stimulate the appetite.) 2. Gently brown the onions and garlic (as well as the anchovies if you are using them) for at least 15 minutes. 3. Add the wine, tomato puree (or a tin of chopped tomatoes) and the two cans of beans along with all the starchy liquid from the cans. 4. Cook with the lid on at 180°C for two hours and then drop the heat to 140°C and cook for a further two hours. Serve with good wine and great company.

So, without further ado, here is my recipe for a simple cassoulet to serve four people. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

HOW HEALTHY IS GIBRALTAR?

Is Gibraltar is becoming more aware of how to stay healthy? Jon Lewes investigates whether we’re living the right lifestyle with regular health maintenance checks to help to increase healthy-life expectancy on the Rock. BY JOHN LEWES

ccess to a Mediterranean diet and regular exercise from the walking available should be enough to keep Gibraltar healthy, and that does seem to be a winning combination for most citizens in Gibraltar. In addition, regular medical checkups, including screenings, can make sure that all is actually as it should be, in the same way that a car well-maintained with a regular road-worthiness test will run smoothly for many kilometres without a problem, if driven well, delivering the long life expected of it. The four factors encouraged and promoted by Public Health Gibraltar to ensure a healthy lifestyle are leisure-time physical activity, a balanced diet, limited or no alcohol consumption not smoking. They posit that “being aware of your lifestyle and knowing when, and how, to make positive changes can help you live 80

longer and healthier”. One of the strongest recommendations by all health organisations is that people should be eating a diet that mostly consists of plant foods. Gibraltar has available all the ingredients that make up the Mediterranean diet, for which the area is famed, and a growing number of people understand the health benefits of keeping to a vegan diet.

Life expectancy for Gibraltar was 78.5 years for a male, and 83.3 years for a female. The Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) explains in its Health Matters report that the good life expectancy that Gibraltar enjoys

is in keeping with the standards for western societies. Global health monitoring organisations, together with the GHA, report that, pre-covid, total life expectancy at birth for Gibraltar was 78.5 years for a male, and 83.3 years for a female. However, just as important as a long life expectancy, is a healthy-life expectancy; an estimate of the number of years lived without a self-reported long-lasting physical or mental health condition that limits daily activities. Minister for Public Health Dr John Cortes explains in the GHA Nation’s Health and Lifestyle Survey 2021 that: “The importance of Public Health as a discipline has often not been appreciated, and it has sadly taken a global pandemic to drive home its importance, and the importance of achieving a healthy GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

life lifestyle.” The 2021 survey shows that “generally, people in Gibraltar view themselves and others in the community as healthy.” Key findings were that although 80% of those surveyed describe their health as ‘good’ or ‘very good’, 65.5% report as being overweight or obese and 82% eat less than five portions of fruit and veg each day and only 27% exercise more than five times per week for at least 20 minutes. In 2015, hypertension (high blood pressure) was the most common illness, with 12.5% of those surveyed reporting having the condition, with an increase to 19% in the 2021 survey. Untreated hypertension is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. The GHA ‘s objectives are to increase the detection and treatment of undiagnosed hypertension through routine screening and antihypertensive drugs to control optimal blood pressure levels. The maintenance of the quality of the Gibraltar public’s health is underpinned in Gibraltar by GHA Health Promotion Officers, who provide a range of services including distribution of health information resources and engaging with the general public through campaigns. The GHA also provides screening programmes in Gibraltar, depending on age and health requirements, with two main programmes, for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening and bowel screening. Several clinics in Gibraltar include a range of types of screenings GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

and tests and provide health care assessments. Dr Joanna Shelley, a clinician at Gibraltar’s College Clinic, explains: “One of the biggest changes that I have seen in my 34-year medical career is the ability for many conditions to be successfully treated and cured, most notably cancers and cardiovascular conditions, when these conditions are detected early.

It is essential to tailor each health screening to the individual. “The College Clinic has been offering well-person screening for many years not only primarily to detect significant health problems but also to offer our clients peace of mind and reassurance that, within the parameters of the screening offered, they are functioning in a normal and healthy way. “It is very important to note that these medicals are called ‘WELLperson’ medicals because they are designed to detect conditions in people who do not have any symptoms or acute medical conditions. “It is also essential to tailor each health screening to the individual, so we offer different products that are directed at women and men and which may vary according to the age of the client. “The medical involves two or three visits to the Clinic the first visits being for the client to provide a full medical history

and also to identify any specific concerns that they might have. They will then see the nurse who will carry out blood tests, usually requiring the patient to have been fasting for 6-8 hours prior to the test. “Once the blood tests and other special investigations are carried out and results are back from the laboratory – we use a laboratory with ISO 9001 and ISO 15189 accreditation to guarantee quality and reliable information – an appointment is made with the doctor to discuss the client’s concerns and assess all the tests, providing advice and reassurance, backed up by a written report sent after the appointment. This written report allows the client to absorb the information provided at a later date and so that the screening can be compared to future screening results. “It is difficult to say how often clients should have a well-person screening as this can vary due to age, family history or pre-existing conditions. This can be discussed with the doctor during the first well-person screening. It is quite easy for us to forget when we last had a screening so we can set up a reminder once the client and doctor have agreed on a future schedule of screening using our Practice Manager system. “For a screening on an annual basis, I have found a few clients who use their birthdays as a reminder to get this year’s medical done, which I think is quite a simple and clever way to remember their annual appointment with our well-person screening team.” 81

fashion

WALKING INTO WINTER I’m relieved to report that many of 2020's most practical trends have cemented themselves as firm favourites, all the way from the catwalk, right down to the high-street. It seems as though the events of the last year has pushed utility to the forefront of our minds, and this notion shows no sign of shifting any time soon. BY JULIA COELHO

1: TALL FLAT BOOTS, ZARA, £59.99 2: CHELSEA ANKLE BOOTS WITH TRACK SOLES, ZARA, £59.99 3: CHUNKY-SOLE LEATHER BOOTS, ARKET, £190.00 4: TRACK OUTSOLE BOOTS, MANGO, £59.99 5: LACE UP LEATHER BOOTS, ARKET, £225.00 6: LACE-UP LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS, ZARA, £79.99

1. 82

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fashion

oots are a crucial contender in the fashionmeets-function lineup, and this season in particular, brands have been expanding their offerings with eclectic styles that add a new edge to this long-loved autumn/ winter staple. Though boots can be considered a year-round go-to for many, for us Mediterraneans they no doubt make their real resurgence on the cusp of the shift into autumn. We’re well into the chilly months by now, and new-in sections are filled to the brim with boots galore, catering for all preferences and sartorial requirements.

we’re just not in the mood to get as creative with our wardrobes as we’d like to be. Jeans and boots are simply one of those pairings that were just made to be together.

TRACK SOLES Track soles, (particularly colourcontrasting rubber soles) are absolutely dominating the overall footwear offering at the moment. I personally love designs that blend function and fashion, which is probably why I’m drawn 3

Of all the autumn items in my wardrobe, nothing quite sets the tone of my outfits as my boots can, and so I always have and will give my boot purchases serious consideration. Not only do I want them to look stylish and also be versatile so that they are able to work seamlessly with the majority of my wardrobe, but they also need to be tough and durable. This sartorial trifecta isn't something you simply happen upon, so it certainly pays to consider boots a true investment purchase. Most boots styles work well for transitional dressing; even though we’re in the thick of autumn now, we still get gorgeous warmer days now and again, so I love nothing more than pairing one of my summer dresses or midi skirts with some chunky boots and a ribbed cardigan when the warmer weather strikes. Best of all, pretty much any boot will go with any pair of jeans, so whether you're a flares fanatic or straight leg lover, it doesn’t really matter. This pairing is an easy fallback on those thick levanter days when GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

fashion to these so much. This wellieinspired boot has gained a great deal of traction and cropped up at all of our high-street favourites this season. Comfortable, versatile and easy to clean, this trend seems to resonate with the masses, and not to mention that they have an innate ability to give any outfit that extra edge.

LACE-UP From chunky to streamlined, laces are all over the place at the moment, but the sock styles that were in a few years ago are definitely reigning supreme in this category. These styles elevate any outfit and make for a perfect desk to drinks option if you already tend to wear heels to work. On the other end of the spectrum, combat boots are my personal go-to option. They’re comfy and versatile and give any outfit an injection of effortless cool, making them one of my top autumn shoe options. Platforms are also absolutely everywhere 7: RADIANT PREMIUM LEATHER SQUARE TOE HEELED BOOTS IN BLACK, ASOS DESIGN, £85.00

8: VIX KNEE-HIGH CHOCOLATE SUEDE BOOTS, URBAN OUTFITTERS, £110.00

9: COURTNEY CHUNKY LACE UP KNEE HIGH BOOT IN SAND, ASOS DESIGN, £45.00 10: APPRECIATE LEATHER CHELSEA BOOTS IN BROWN, ASOS DESIGN, £45.00 11: CUBAN HEEL WESTERN CHELSEA BOOTS IN STONE FAUX SUEDE WITH ZIPS, ASOS DESIGN, £28.00 12: HEEL LEATHER ANKLE BOOT, MANGO, £59.99 13: REBECCA PREMIUM LEATHER SQUARE TOE BOOTS IN KHAKI, ASOS DESIGN, £78.00

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fashion too; another great way of adding some polished funk to coldweather separates.

KNEE-HIGH While track soles and combat boots have exploded onto the fashion scene as of late, it seems as though they’re going to have to make some room for knee-highs. Styling-wise, you can essentially treat this trend the same way you would any boot, although I’d argue they probably don’t look their best with wide-leg jeans. I think they look coolest when paired with midi knit dresses or with leggings and a cool oversized blazer, creating a cool aesthetical contrast but also playing around with dimensions and proportions.

When it comes to Chelsea boots, of course, you really can’t get much more classic than that! They’re arguably one of the most fuss-free to style and look good with pretty much anything, no matter the occasion!

Boots are a crucial contender. 11.

CHELSEA & KITTEN There are some shoe trends that rise to the forefront of the trend list, and then disappear quickly, never to be seen again. Others only fade away for a few seasons before making their updated comeback. And then there are those that have such staying power that they firmly cement themselves as forever wardrobe staples. A solid pair of Chelsea or kitten-heeled boots are my work go-tos when it comes to autumn and winter, and best of all, they make for super appropriate desk to drinks options too, as they strike that perfect balance between casual and smart. Anchored in the explosive 1990s renaissance, kitten heels made their comeback a few seasons ago, with summer offering us cute pastel slingbacks and mules, and for the cooler months, a gorgeous variety of ultra-chic kitten booties in many colours and textures. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

10.

13. 85

SHEESEY PASTA Recipe by The Gibraltar Vegan, follow instagram.com/thegibraltarvegan for updates

It’s November, and the clocks going back means its getting darker earlier in the evenings, and there is asense of wanting more comfort food in the air. This recipe is an easy - AKA lazy - dinner that can be adapted to your needs. I use Morrison's Nourish pasta for the protein but sometimes I use black bean pasta for a low carb alternative. You can also use a different flavour Sheese spread if sweet chilli isn’t your thing; try out the delicious Sheese garlic and herb spread! If you are not a fan 86

of fake meat then roast off some hazelnuts or chickpeas to add on top. INGREDIENTS •

250g pasta (the photo shows the Nourish pasta)

•

1tsp crushed garlic

•

1bunch roughly chopped chives

•

255g Sheese sweet chilli spread

•

120g 'This Isn’t Bacon' lardons

METHOD 1. Boil your pasta, drain when cooked and place it back in the pan. 2. Cook the This Isn’t Bacon lardons in the oven or under the grill for five minutes. 3. Add in the crushed garlic, chives and the Sheese spread into the pan and stir it in on a low heat so the spread melts but doesn’t burn. 4. Scoop it out into a bowl and top with the warm This Isn’t Bacon lardons. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE This cake is something out of a chocoholic fantasy. Decadent and rich and intensely chocolatey the orange zest adds a refreshing zing to the dessert. Make sure you make this just before serving as it’s best enjoyed hot from the oven. INGREDIENTS: •

175G Butter

•

180G Dark Chocolate

•

3 Eggs

•

125G Caster Sugar

•

30G Plain Flour

•

1 Orange

METHOD: 1. Using the baine-marie method, melt the butter in a large bowl. Remove the bowl from the heat and melt almost all the chocolate in the butter, saving 5 cubes or so to use later. When melted, place GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

the bowl to one side to cool in the meantime.

Recipe featured in the Mama Lotties Website - www.mamalotties.com

2. In a second large bowl, cream together the sugar and the eggs. You want to whisk this together until you have a light and fluffy mixture, resembling a mousse. 3. Continue by adding the melted chocolate mixture in with the eggs and the grated zest of one orange and folding evenly. We fold this to keep the air that we whisked inside. 4. Sift in the flour and fold until smooth. Grease an oven dish or alternatively several small ramekins with butter and pour in your mixture. 5. Heat up an oven to 180°C and pour the mixture into the dish, add the remaining cubes of chocolate you set aside earlier throughout the mixture and transfer the dish inside for 20 minutes.

Mama Lotties Jam Biscuits sent in by @stitchknitgibraltar on Instagram One of our readers has had a go at a past Gib Mag recipe - what do you think? Send in your snaps to editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com for a chance to be featured! 87

information EMERGENCY SERVICES EMERGENCY CALLS ONLY: ALL EMERGENCIES................................. 112 FIRE...............................................................190 AMBULANCE.............................................190 POLICE.................................................................199

NON-URGENT CALLS: Ambulance Station 200 75728 Business Information Financial Serv. Commission Tel: 200 40283/4 Chamber of Commerce Tel: 200 78376 Federation Small Business Tel: 200 47722 Company Registry.Tel: 200 78193 Useful Numbers Airport (general info.) . Tel: 200 12345 Hospital, St Bernards. . Tel: 200 79700 Weather information. . Tel: 5-3416 Frontier Queue Update Tel: 200 42777

The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Rock Publishing Ltd, Gibraltar. Tel: (+350) 200 77748

Gibraltar Museum Tel: 200 74289 18/20 Bomb House Lane 10am-6pm (Sat 10am-2pm). Admission: Adults £2/Children under 12 - £1. Exhibitions also at Casemates gallery.

Police 200 72500

Gibraltar Garrison Library Tel: 200 77418 2 Library Ramp Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm. Free Library tour offered every Friday at 11am. chris.tavares@gibraltargarrisonlibrary.gi Registry Office Tel: 200 72289 It’s possible to get married within 48 hours. A fact taken advantage of by stars such as Sean Connery & John Lennon. Rock Tours by Taxi Tel: 200 70052 As well as offering normal fares, taxis provide Rock Tours taking in the Upper Rock, Europa Point etc. John Mackintosh Hall Tel: 200 75669 Includes cafeteria, theatre, exhibition rooms and library. 308 Main Street 9.30am - 11pm Mon-Fri.

Gibraltar Services Police Emergency Nos: (5) 5026 / (5) 3598 Gibraltar Public Holidays 2020 New Year’s Day Commonwealth Day Good Friday Easter Monday

Monday 1st Jan Monday 09th Mar Friday 10th Apr Monday 13nd Apr

Workers Memorial Day Tuesday 28th Apr May Day

Friday 1st May

75th anniversary of VE Day Friday 8th May Spring Bank Holiday

Monday 25th May

Queen’s Birthday

Monday 15th June

Late Summer Bank Holiday

Monday 31st Aug

Gibraltar National Day Tuesday 10th Sept Christmas Day Boxing Day

Friday 25th Dec Thursday 28th Dec

SUPPORT GROUPS ADHD Gibraltar adhdgibraltar@gmail.com facebook.com/ADHDGibraltar/ Alcoholics Anonymous meet 7pm Tues & Thurs at Nazareth House Tel: 200 73774. A Step Forward support for single, separated, divorced/widowed people, meet 8pm Mon at St Andrew’s Church. Mummy & Me Breastfeeding Support Group those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have breastfed to get together for coffee / support. Partners and older children welcome. Meets 1st Wed / month at Chilton Court Community Hall at 1.30pm. Enquiries and support 54014517. Childline Gibraltar confidential phone line for children in need. Freephone 8008 - 7 days a week 5pm - 9pm Citizens’ Advice Bureau Open Mon-Thur 9:30am-4:00pm, Fri 9:30am- 3:30pm. Tel: 200 40006 Email: info@cab.gi or visit at 10 Governor’s Lane. Free & confidential, impartial & independent advice and info. COPE Support group for people with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Meetings at Catholic Community Centre Book

Shop at 7.30pm first Thur of each month. Tel: 200 51469 Email: copeadsupport@hotmail.com Dignity At Work Now Confidential support and advice for those who are being bullied at work. Tel: 57799000. Families Anonymous Support group for relatives and friends concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioural problems. Meet weekly on Thurs at 9pm at Family and Community Centre, Mid Harbours Estate, Bishop Caruana Road. 54007676 or 54014484. Gamblers Anonymous Telephone: 54001520 Gibraltar Cardiac Rehabilitation and Support Group meets on the first Tues of every month at 8.30pm at John Mac Hall, except for Jul & Aug. Gibraltar Dyslexia Support Group 72 Prince Edwards Rd Tel: 200 78509 Mobile: 54007924 website: dyslexia.gi Gibraltar Hearing Issues & Tinnitus Association Voicemail: (+350) 200 66755, Text Message (SMS): (+350) 54066055, Correspondence Charity P.O. Box 90220, Gibraltar. Email: info@ ghita.gi, Facebook: Gibraltar Hearing Issues & Tinnitus Association (GHITA & BSL Club), Our support group meets the first Monday of every month at Suite 3, Kings Bastion Leisure Centre as from 5pm.

Gibraltar Marriage Care Free relationship counselling, including pre-marriage education (under auspices of Catholic Church, but open to all). Tel: 200 71717. Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired Tel: 200 50111 (24hr answering service). Hope miscarriage support Tel: 200 41817. Mummy & Me Breastfeeding Support: Meets every Thursday 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 200 70720 Parental Support Group helping parents and grandparents with restrictive access to their children and grandchildren. Tel: 200 46536, 200 76618, or 54019602. Psychological Support Group, PO Box 161, Nazareth House. Meet Tuesdays at 7pm, Fridays 8pm. Tel: Yolanda 54015553 With Dignity Gibraltar support for separated, divorced/widowed or single people. Meet Weds 9pm, Catholic Community Centre, Line Wall Rd. Outings/activities. Women in Need Voluntary organisation for all victims of domestic violence. Refuge available. Tel: 200 42581 (24 hrs).

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

clubs & activities Arts & Crafts Cross Stitch Club: John Mackintosh Hall, 1st Floor, Mon 6-8pm, fee £1. Gibraltar Arts & Crafts Association: Children: Mon&Fri 12.30-2pm, Mon-Fri 3.45-5.15pm Adults: Wed 5.45-7.15, Sat 10.30 to 12.30, Tel: 20073865 email: gibartsandcrafts@hotmail.com Knit and Natter Group: Tues 11am-3pm, Thurs 5.30-7.30pm, at Arts & Crafts Shop, Casemates balcony. Free to join and refreshments provided. Tel: 20073865. The Arts Centre: Prince Edward’s Road, Art classes for children and adults. For more info call Tel: 200 79788. The Fine Arts Association Gallery: At Casemates. Open 10am-2pm, 3-6pm Mon-Fri, Sat 11am-1pm. The Arts Society Gibraltar: Monthly illustrated talks open to the public. Registration from 6:30pm every 3rd Wednesday of the month. Guest fee £12. We meet at The Garrison Library. Contact gibraltar@theartssociety.org or Claus Olesen on 54036666. Website with all informaiton is gibraltar.theartssociety.org Board Games Calpe Chess Club & Junior Club: meets in Studio 1, John Mackintosh Hall Thursday, Juniors: 5p.m. - 7 p.m. / Tuesday & Thursday 7p.m. - 10:30 The Gibraltar Scrabble Club: Meets on Tuesdays at 3pm. Tel: Vin 20073660 or Roy 20075995. All welcome. The Subbuteo Club: Meets in Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall. Dance Adult Dance Classes: Wed evenings at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre from 7-8.30pm. Contact Dilip on 200 78714. Art in Movement Centre: Hip-hop/Break Dance, Contemporary Dance, Pilates, Capoeira, Acrobatics, Street Kids & Tods, Modern Dance. Performance and Film opportunities. Judo & Jujitsu Classes: Tue/ Thur with Sensei Conroy. All ages. Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. www. artinmovement.net FB: Art In Movement A.I.M, tel 54025041 or 54007457 Ballet, Modern Theatre, Contemporary & Hip-hop: weekly at Danza Academy. Training from 3 years to Adult Advanced. 68/2 Prince Edward’s Rd Tel: 54027111. Bellydance Classes, all levels, Tue 8-9pm at the Ocean Village Gym (non–members welcome). Contact 54005593. DSA Old & Modern Sequence Dancing: Sessions at Central Hall Fri 8.30pm, beginners 8pm. Tel: 200 78901 or tony@ gibraltar.gi Everybody welcome. Modern & Latin American Sequence Dancing: Mon at Catholic Community Centre 8pm. Tel. Andrew 200 78901. Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Flexibility, Hip Hop & Dance Theatre: Classes weekly at Urban Dance Studio, 2 Jumpers Bastion. Tel: Yalta 54012212 or Jolene 54015125. Rockkickers Linedance Club: Governor’s Meadow 1st School. www.rockkickers.com Salsa Gibraltar Salsa: Tues at Laguna Social Club, Laguna Estate. Beginners 7-8.30pm. Intermediates 8.30-10pm. Tel: Mike 54472000 or info@salsagibraltar.com Zumba Classes at Urban Dance: Jumpers Bastion, with certified instructor Tyron Walker. Tel: 20063959 or 54012212 or Twitter: @UrbanDanceGib History & Heritage The Gibraltar Heritage Trust: Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Sq. Tel: 200 42844. The Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association: Dedicated to the preservation of Rock’s transport/motoring heritage. Assists members in restoration / maintenance of classic vehicles. New members welcome. Tel: 200 44643. Garrison Library Tours: at 11am on Fri, duration 1h 50mins. Tel: 20077418. History Alive: Historical re-enactment parade. Main Street up to Casemates Square every Sat at 12 noon. Music Gibraltar National Choir and Gibraltar Junior National Choir: Rehearses at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Tel: 54831000. The Calpe Band: Mon & Wed. For musicians of brass/woodwind instruments of all standards/ages/abilities 7-9pm. Tel: 54017070 or thecalpeband@gmail.com

Jazz Nights: Thurs at 9pm at O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel. Tel: 200 70500. Outdoor Activities The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Gibraltar: Exciting self-development programme for young people worldwide equipping them with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. Contact: Award House, North Mole Road, PO Box: 1260. mjpizza@ gibtelecom.net, www.thedukes.gi. Social Clubs The Rotary Club of Gibraltar meets the Rock Hotel, 7pm Tuesday evenings. Guests welcome. For contact or info www.rotaryclubgibraltar.com Royal Antediluvian Order of Buﬀaloes: (Gibraltar Province) meets RAOB Club, 72/9 Prince Edward’s Road - Provincial Grand Lodge, Thu/month, 7.30pm. William Tilley 2371, Thurs 8.30pm. Buena Vista 9975, monthly, Social Lodge. www.akearn1.wix. com/raob-gibraltar, william.tilley.lodge@ hotmail.co.uk, Clive, tel: 58008074 Special Interest Clubs & Societies Creative Writers Group: meets up on Tuesday mornings at 10.30 in O’Reilley’s Irish Bar and it is free to attend. Tel: Carla 54006696. Gibraltar Book Club: For info Tel: Parissa 54022808. Gibraltar Horticultural Society: meets 1st Thurs of month 6pm, J.M. Hall. Spring Flower Show, slide shows, flower arrangement demos, outings to garden centres, annual Alameda Gardens tour. All welcome. Gibraltar Photographic Society: Meets on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. Wellington Front. Induction courses, talks, discussions, competitions etc. For details contact the secretary on, leslinares@gibtelecom.net Harley Davidson Owners’ Club: Harley Riders Gibraltar on Facebook Lions Club of Gibraltar: Meets 2nd and 4th Wed of the month at 50 Line Wall Road. www.lionsclubofgibraltar.com St John’s Ambulance: Adult Volunteers Training Sessions from 8-10pm on Tues. Tel: 200 77390 or training@stjohn.gi The Royal British Legion: For info or membership contact the Branch Secretary 20074604 or write to PO Box 332. UN Association of Gibraltar: PO Box 599, 22a Main Street. Tel: 200 52108. Sports Supporters Clubs Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club: Meets at Star Bar, Parliament Lane, when Spurs games are televised - call prior to matches to check game is televised. Great food for a lunch if KO is early or an early supper if the game is later. Gibraltar Arsenal Supporters Club: Meets match days upstairs at Time Out Café, Eurotowers. Gooners of all ages welcome. For info/news visit www.GibGooners.com Tel: 54010681 (Bill) or 54164000 (John). Gibraltar Hammers: Meets on match days at the Victoria Stadium Bar, Bayside Road. All league games are shown live. All West Ham supporters and their families are welcome. For details visit www.gibraltarhammers.com or gibraltarhammers@hotmail.com Leeds United Gibraltar Supporters Club. Meet at The Trafalgar Sports Bar 1 Rosia Road when live matches are on. All Leeds United supporters and their families are welcome. Join Leeds United Gibraltar Supporters club at: facebook.com/luscgib Sports & Fitness Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gymnastics Association. Tel: Angela 200 70611 or Sally 200 74661. Athletics: Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association holds competitions through year for juniors, adults and veterans. Two main clubs (Calpeans 200 71807, Lourdians 200 75180) training sessions at Victoria Stadium. Badminton: Recreational badminton weekdays at Victoria Stadium (Tel: 200 78409 for allocations). Gibraltar Badminton Association (affiliated to BWF& BE) junior club/tournaments, senior leagues/ recreational. www.badmintongibraltar.com Ballet Barre Fitness: Adults on Wed 10am & Fri 6pm at The Arts Centre. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com Basketball: Gibraltar Amateur Basketball Association (affiliated FIBA) leagues/ training

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

for minis, passarelle, cadets, seniors and adults at a variety of levels. Tel: John 200 77253, Randy 200 40727. Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Association (member IABA) gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory. Tel: 56382000 or 20042788. Cheerleading: Gibraltar Cheerleading Association, girls and boys of all ages. Cheerleading and street cheer/hip-hop at Victoria Stadium. Recreational / competitive levels. Tel: 58008338. Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association. Tel: Nigel 200 52917 or Arturo 54025033. Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket, National Governing Body & Associate Member of ICC. Governs International & Domestic Men’s, Women’s, Boys’ & Girls’ cricket- league & cup competitions and in-school coaching. www.gibraltarcricket.com, info@gibcricket. com, Twitter: @Gibraltar_Crick Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association various cycling tours. Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association (full member of WDF & affiliate of BDO). We cater for men, ladies & youth who take part in leagues, competitions and a youth academy for the correct development of the sport. Tel: Darren 54027171 Secretary, Alex 54021672 Youth Rep, Justin 54022622 President. Email: info@ gibraltardarts.com Football: Gibraltar Football Association leagues/competitions for all ages OctoberMay. Futsal in summer, Victoria Stadium. Tel: 20042941 www.gibraltarfa.com Gaelic Football Club (Irish sport): Males any age welcome. Get fit, play sport, meet new friends, travel around Spain/Europe and play an exciting and competitive sport. Training every Wed on the MOD pitch on Devil’s Tower Road at 7pm. Andalucia League with Seville and Marbella to play matches home and away monthly. Visit www.gibraltargaels. com or secretary.gibraltar.europe@gaa.ie Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association (members FIH & EHF) high standard competitions/training for adults/juniors. Tel: Eric 200 74156 or Peter 200 72730 for info. Iaido: teaches the Japanese sword (Katana), classes every week. www.iaidogibraltar.com Ice Skating: Gibraltar Rock Stars Figure Skating Club lessons every Tuesday evening & Saturday morning, all levels including adults. Contact grsfsc@gmail.com or 58700000 Iwa Dojo, Kendo & Jujitsu: Classes every week, for kids/adults. Tel: 54529000 www. iwadojo.com or dbocarisa@iwadojo.com Judo and Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Budokai Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and levels at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. Tel: Charlie 20043319. Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during the evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion. Tel: 54011007. Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association - Karate training for junior & seniors at Clubhouse, Shotokai karate centre, 41H Town Range. Monday: 9:30 p.m. & Wednesday 9:45 p.m. Karate: Shotokan karate midday Mon beginners, other students 8.30pm. Thurs 8.30pm. In town at temporary dojo or privately by arrangement. Contact Frankie 54038127 or info@fhmedia.co.uk. Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 200 75211. Muay Thai and Muay Boran Club: Tues & Thur at Boyd’s Kings Bastion Leisure Centre at 6:30pm, Tel: John – 54024707 FB: Gibraltar Muay Thai Netball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affiliated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year, senior/junior leagues. Tel: 20041874. Petanque: Gibraltar Petanque Association. New members welcome. Tel: 54002652. Pilates: Intermediate Pilates: Tues & Fri 9.30am, beginners Pilates: Fri 10.50am at the Shotokai Centre, 41H Town Range. Tel: 54033465 or pilatesgibraltar@hotmail.com Gibraltar Pool Association: (Member of the EBA) home and away league played on Thurs throughout the season, various tournaments played on a yearly basis both nationally and internationally, Tel: 56925000 gibpool@ gibtelecom.net, www.gib8ball.com

Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association runs sessions from 4 years of age, weekday evenings. Tel: 56000772 or Sally 200 74661. Rugby: Gibraltar Rugby caters for all ages from 4 years old to veterans (over 35’s). It organises competitions and sessions for Juniors; 4 x Senior Clubs; Veterans team; Touch Rugby and a Referees Society. Email admin@gibraltarrfu. com or visit www.gibraltarrfu.com Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association junior/ senior competitive programme (April - Oct) Tel: Royal Gibraltar Yacht Club at 200 78897. Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation. Rifle, Europa Point Range (Stephanie 54020760); Clay pigeon, East Side (Harry 200 74354); Pistol, near Royal Naval Hospital (Louis 54095000). Snooker: Members of European Billiards & Snooker Association - facilities at Jumpers Bastion with 3 tables. Professional coaching for juniors/seniors. Organised leagues/ tournaments and participation in international competitions. Tel: 56262000 / 54000068, or info@gibraltarsnooker.com Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road (members WSF & ESF). Adult and junior tournaments and coaching. Tel: 200 44922. Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Noah’s Dive Club and 888s Dive Club. Tel: 54991000. Commercial sports diving schools available. Time - Thursday 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.. Telephone, Jenssen Ellul - 54027122 Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association (member FINA & LEN) opens its pool for leisure swimming. Junior lessons, squad for committed swimmers, water polo. Pool open Mon&Thurs: 7-10am, 12.30-4pm. Tue, Wed, Fri: 7-10am, 12:30-5pm. Sat: 3-5pm. Sun: closed. Mon to Fri from 5-6pm groups training. 6-7.30 squad training. Mon, Wed, Fri 7.30-8.30 swimming joggers, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30 junior Water polo. Mon, Tues & Thurs 8:30-10pm Adult water polo. Tel: 200 72869. Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Association training and playing sessions, Victoria Stadium, Tues 6-10pm and Thurs 8-11pm with coaching and league competition. Tel: 56070000 or 20060720. Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Association classes/gradings Tel: Mari 20044142 or www. gibraltartaekwondo.org Tai Chi: Tai Chi for children and adults. MonThur 6.30-8pm at Kings Bastion Leisure Centre and Sat 9am-1pm at the Yoga Centre, 33 Town Range. Tel: Dilip 200 78714. Tennis and Paddle Tennis: Sandpits Club. Junior and adult training available. info : www. sandpits.club. Tel (Louis) 20077035 Ten-Pin Bowling: At King’s Bowl in the King’s Bastion Leisure Centre every day. Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling (members FIQ & WTBA) leagues, training for juniors and squad. Tel: 200 52442. Triathlon: Hercules Triathlon Club organises swimming, running and cycling training sessions and competes regularly in Andalucia and Internationally. Contact chris.walker@york.gi or Facebook “Hercules Triathlon Club” Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association training, indoor leagues, beach volleyball competition, 3 v 3 competition, juniors and seniors. Tel: 54001973 or 54885000. Yoga: Integral Yoga Centre runs a full programme of classes from Mon-Fri at 33 Town Range. Tel: 200 41389. All welcome. Theatrical Groups Gibraltar Amateur Drama Association: Meet at Ince’s Hall Theatre Complex, 310 Main Street. Tel: 20042237. Trafalgar Theatre Group: Meets 2nd Wed of month, Garrison Library 8pm. All welcome.

R U N W A Y

Victoria Stadium

REFERENDUM HOUSE ←→ SOUTH BARRACKS

Market Place loop (Eastbound)

http://www.gibraltarbuscompany.gi

Routes operated by

BOTH WORLDS ←→ ROSIA

Rosia loop (Northbound)

MARKET PLACE ←→ EUROPA POINT

Midtown loop (Southbound) Midtown loop (Northbound)

Ocean Village

Glacis Kiosk

WILLIS’s ROAD

MOUNT ALVERNIA ←→ ORANGE BASTION

AIRPORT/FRONTIER ←→ TRAFALGAR

EUROTOWERS ←→ ROSIA

http://citibus.gi

Bishop Canilla House

PLACES OF INTEREST

Coach Park

Cable Car

Airport

Lighthouse

Cathedral

Museum

Taxis

Seaport

Castle

Beach

Stadium

Trafalgar Cemetery

QUEENSWAY

King’s Wharf

Queensway Quay

Referendum Gates

MAIN STREET

Commonwealth Park

Mid-Harbour Estate

Europort Building 8

A AN RU CA D OP A SH RO

Edinburgh House

PRINCE EDWARDS ROAD

Eliott’s Way

48 BOTH WORLDS

ROSIA ROAD

Alameda Governor’s House Meadow House Victoria House

H KS RO AD

BA RR AC

Mount Pleasant

New Harbours

Cumberland Jumpers Road Building

South Gates

New Mole House

Garrison Gym

ce ur So

Gibraltar Bus Network

rg p.o ma et tre ns pe O :

Rosia Plaza

North Gorge

Eliott’s Battery

March 2019 version : correct at time of going to print

Map of Gibraltar

University of Gibraltar

EUROPA POINT

Schematic Diagram of Bus Network (not to scale)

Buena Vista

Mosque

BUS NETWORK

GIBRALTAR

9 ROSIA ROSIA 4

Brympton

EUROPA ROAD

SOUTH BARRACKS

SOUTH PAVILION ROAD

St. Joseph’s School

MOUNT ALVERNIA

Schomberg

SO UT

Shorthorn Farm

R e s e r v e

Rock Old Hotel Casino

RED SANDS ROAD

Lower Flat Bastion Rd Wilson’s Gardiner’s Ramp Road

Morello’s Ramp

TRAFALGAR Convent Place

Blackstrap Cove

N a t u r e

FLAT BASTION ROAD

Sacred Heart Church

Flat Bastion Rd

R o c k

Caleta Hotel

RECLAMATION Cathedral ROAD Square

King’s Bastion

Arengo’s Palace

PORT St. Bernard’s EURO Hospital GASA Swimming Pool

ROAD

Varyl Begg Estate

MONTAGU GARDENS

British War Memorial

LINE WALL ROAD

BOTH WORLDS ←→ RECLAMATION ROAD

Artillery Arms

WILLIS’s ROAD

MAIN STREET MAIN STREET

Moorish Castle Estate

AIRPORT/FRONTIER ←→ RECLAMATION ROAD

Albert Risso House

Sir William Jackson Grove

Waterport Road

QUEENSWAY

Orange Bastion

Fishmarket Steps

William’s Way

U p p e r

SIR HERBERT MILES ROAD

1 2 MARKET PLACE

CASEMATES

Routes operated by

Notre Dame School

Faulknor House

Constitution House

REFERENDUM HOUSE

WINSTON CHURCHILL AVENUE

Park & Ride

MARKET PLACE ←→ WILLIS’S ROAD

R U N W A Y

BUS ROUTES

5 10

AIRPORT/ FRONTIER

DEVIL’S TOWER RO AD

St. Theresa’s Church

GLACIS ROAD

Eastern Beach

CORRAL ROAD

WATERPORT ROAD

C A R C A B L E

Catalan Bay

restaurants, bars & pubs THE LOUNGE Stylish Lounge Gastro Bar on Queensway Quay Marina serving best quality food prepared by passionate, qualified chefs. Popular quiz on Sundays from 7pm and a relaxed friendly atmosphere. A separate Lounge Bar Area serving a wide range of hot drinks, wines, beers, spirits and cocktails at reasonable prices, with large TV’s for sports and events coverage. Open: 10am-late Mon - Sun Be sure to arrive early to ensure a seat! The Lounge, 17 Ragged Staff Wharf, Queensway Quay Marina Tel: 200 61118 info@thelounge.gi

02 Nov 21 to 08 Nov '21

DUTY PHARMACY OPENING HOURS

09 Nov 21 to 15 Nov 21

Monday to Friday (7pm to 9pm) Weekends & public holidays (11am to 1pm & 6pm to 8pm)

16 Nov 21 to 22 Nov 21

For updates, check facebook.com/PharmaGuide

23 Nov 21 to 29 Nov '21

30 Nov 21 to 06 Dec '21

New Chemist

19 Main Street 200 45039

Calpe ICC

Unit G9, ICC 200 77977

Waterport Pharmacy

Unit 14 Crown Daisy House 200 68323

Ocean Pharmacy

Unit 2 Ocean Village Avenue 200 76822

Calpe 93

93 Main Street 200 77230

CHESS PUZZLE ANSWER: 48. …Nf3 + is the best try since after 49. gxf3 exf3 (as played) 50. Bh4 g5 51. Bf2 Ke2, Black's pawns triumph. White had to cling on with 49. Kf6.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

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Kid's Korner

Find your inner piece Mindful colouring puzzle Instructions: Colour in the picture, then cut around the pieces. Ask a friend or family member if they can put your puzzle back together.

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

coffee time CROSSWORD 1

10 9 2 1

1. Lover and then downfall of Samson (7)

4. Ogen or water- for example (5)

9. Piece of land; scenario (5)

1. Harm (6)

8. Edible shellfish such as Norway lobster (6)

DOWN

7. Old British coin worth 2 shillings (6)

ACROSS

7 17

10. Arrange; put in order (8) 12. Scene of « Hi-Di-Hi; Butlins maybe ( 7,4) 17. Balearic island (Spanish spelling) (8) 19. Original; sauce with lamb (4)

20. Co-author with Karl Marx of The Communist Manifesto (6)

2. Pre-nup is a type of this agreement (7) 3. 9ac Familiar name of 11’s intended treason (9,4) 4. A fine coffee (5) 5. Religion of Tibet influenced by Buddhism (7) 6. Secured (6) 11. Conspirator said to be responsible for UK treason (3,6) 13. Bound morally (7) 14. Annual publication; Whittaker’s perhaps (7) 15. Small boat with oars and sails (7)

21. Town in Cumbria famous for pencils and 19 cake (6) 22. Printing typeface (5)

16. To be about to happen (6) 18. Nocturnal raptor young (5)

23. Soul (7)

& YOU COULD WIN

SUDOKU

lunch for two at Write your name and either SNAP and SEND your completed crossword to editor@thegibraltarmagazine.com or RETURN TO THE CLIPPER by 20th November Winners must collect their voucher from The Clipper, and use it within the same month of this publication. 1

W H A M B H R

A C

T J 12

Y O 1

October 2021 Answers

A R

N A

N E

N D

M O A O 2

W T

M A

A O A 21

K M A 13

O P

C O I

Z 8

S O N

A M P

A D

E L

R B H

O C

N I

L O

N H S

E R

A N

A U N

H O

P O

Y M A

4 8

8 8

Derek Austin

S E

9 6

THE WINNER IS:

C D D

U R

U M 22

R M B

E N

P O

R M E H

C H A

L A

A M E

8 3

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

coffee time CHESS FEVER

BY GRANDMASTER RAY KEENE OBE The combined effect of the Netflix TV series, The Queens Gambit, allied with the pivot towards online chess during the Coronavirus pandemic, has led to a gigantic increase in chess interest and activity. For example, the online chess site LiChess.com has just recorded its four billionth online game, an extraordinary total. Meanwhile, pre-teenage Grandmasters continue to proliferate, the latest world record breaker being 12-year-old Abhimanyu Mishra. Netflix has attracted further attention by winning eleven Emmys during the September awards this year, while in a lawsuit made in heaven, former Women’s World Champion Nona Gaprindashvili is apparently suing Netflix for five million dollars. The casus belli? An (incorrect) mention that Nona never faced male opposition. The extra publicity will be worth it for Netflix, even if they lose the case. This month’s game, a win of mine from Australia, in the days when one actually had to travel to the Antipodes to compete in an Australian event. Nowadays, one can easily compete online against Australian opponents 24/7 from the safety of one's own study. White: Terrey Ian Shaw Black: Raymond Keene Brisbane Tournament, Brisbane, Australia, 1979 Sicilian Defence

1. e4 c5 2. Nc3 Nc6 3. g3 g6 4. Bg2 Bg7 5. d3 d6 6. f4 Nf6 In the Manila leg of the Asian Circuit I won against Shaw with 6...Rb8 7 Nf3 b5 8 a3 a5 9 O-O b4 10 axb4 axb4 11 Nd5 e6 12 Ne3 Nge7. White now sacrificed a pawn with 13 f5, but it turned out to be insufficient. I decided, for this game, that it would be a mistake to try to win the same way twice, especially since White has a significant improvement in 13 g4. 7. Nf3 O-O 8. O-O Rb8 9. h3 9 Nh4 is a reasonable alternative. 9. … b5 10. g4 ?! This looks too sharp; stronger would be 10 Be3 or 10 a3.

10. … b4 11. Ne2 Ba6 Even more to the point is 11...c4 followed by ...Ba6, when White cannot avoid pawn weaknesses in the centre. My choice forces White onto the defensive to hold up the ...c5-c4 thrust, but it gives Black fewer prospects of active

play. 12. Nd2 Nd7 13. Kh1 Bb5 I did not like 13...Nb6 14 a3, which throws a spanner into the works of Black's plan of achieving ...c5-c4. 14. Rg1 ? A highly artificial means of removing the rook from the line of fire of Black's queen's bishop. Much better would be 14 a4!, when after 14...Ba6 15 Rb1 followed by b2-b3, White could seal up the queenside and avert much of the impending danger. And 14 a4! bxa3 15 Rxa3 gives White a target, in the shape of Black's a-pawn, to compensate for the vulnerability of his own b-pawn. 14. … a5 15. Rb1 a4 16. b3 axb3 17. axb3 Ra8 Now Black controls the a-file, which is a distinct advantage in comparison with the previous note. 18. Bb2 Nd4 19. Nf3 If 19 Bxd4 cxd4 20 e5 Black can offer a promising exchange sacrifice with 20...dxe5 21 Bxa8 Qxa8+. 19. … Nxf3 20. Bxf3 Bxb2 21. Rxb2 e5 ! Introducing the theme of dominating the dark squares. White's only chance now is 22 f5, although after 24...Qh4 he must avoid 23 Qf1 Ra1! 22. Rb1 ? Qh4

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

coffee time 23. Qf1 exf4

operate together on the far-flung a- and h-files. It is only a matter of time now before White's position collapses in the pincer movement.

39. Qf2 Qxd5+ 40. Bf3 Qd4 41. Be4 Ra2 42. Qd2 Qc3 White resigned at adjournment. 0-1

PUZZLE:

GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2021

33. Rg1 Rxg1 34. Qxg1 Ra2 35. Qb1 Ra3 36. Qd1 Qf6 37. Kg2 Qf4 38. Qf1 Qd4

White: Leon Luke Mendonca Black: Abhimanyu Mishra Vezerkepzo GM Mix, Budapest, Hungary, Round 9, 2021

Answer on page 91

The omission of 22 f5 allows Black to occupy the powerful e5 square with a knight, and this piece will exert a decisive influence on events. 24. Nxf4 Ra2 25. Rc1 Ne5 Threatening 26...Bxd3! 27 Nxd3 (or 27 cxd3 Rf2-+) 27...Nxd3 28 cxd3 (28 Qxd3 Qxh3 is mate) 28...Rf2-+. 26. Kh2 Rfa8 27. Rg2 Bc6 28. Nd5 White is running out of constructive moves. The text is an unpleasant choice, which leaves White with a virtually helpless minor piece to combat the monster on e5. 28. … Bxd5 29. exd5 h5 ! 30. Rg3 If 30 gxh5 Qf4+ 31 Rg3 Nxf3+ 32 Qxf3 Qxc1-+. 30. … hxg4 31. Bxg4 Kg7 32. Qg2 Ra1 White has been totally surrounded. I particularly liked the way in which Black’s pieces

The position for this puzzle is before Black’s 48th move. Black (to move) looks as if he is fighting for a draw but he has a surprise way to try to win. Can you see it?

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