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dining guide • business & finance • sport & leisure • property • history • community
gibraltar the
magazine
features
January 2009 Vol. 14 No. 03 FREE
2009
Opportunity Knocks Interesting Times The Youth of Today!
Spying for Russia and much more...
2008november copy.indd 1
Sunset at Tradewinds
7/12/08 12:43:55
Volume 14, Number 03 January 2009 The Gibraltar Magazine is published monthly by Guide Line Promotions Limited, PO Box 561, PMB 6377 Gibraltar Tel or fax (+350) 200 77748 E-mail: gibmag@gibraltar.gi www.TheGibraltarMagazine.com Editor: Andrea Morton Copyright © 2009 by Guide Line Promotions Limited. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written consent of The Gibraltar Magazine. Subscriptions £35.00 per year. Cheques, money orders or banker’s drafts should be made payable to: Guide Line Promotions Ltd and must be payable in Pounds Sterling.
18 28 34
Momy Levy: I’m Lovin’ It €
1st Aussie Poet
36 40 48 64 68
20 Years of Home Design Gibraltar’s Chief Justice was The Road to Atlantropa Spying for Russia on the Rock A Lifetime Protecting Children A Man of Many Parts Saved by his Old School Tie €
leisure & activites 38 Monkeying Around in Watercolours 42 Into 2009 - Resolutions € 44 A Youthful Service 46 Art: The Youth of Today 53 Olympic Inspiration 62 Shopping & Beauty 63 Chess Festival 76 Enhancing the Scenery 77 Travel: Neon Cities € 80 Panto Time! 94 Clubs & Activities Guide information 54-55 City Centre Map 98 Gibraltar Information
business & finance 8 Business & Finance Guide 9 Financial Resolutions 12 Employee Benefits:
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16 22 24 28
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Who does benefit? € Gibraltar Government Publishes LLP Bill Interesting Times Opportunity Knocks A New Year: A New Dawn Property 2008: Rollercoaster without the Fun of the Fair! € Investment Masterclass: Preference Shares
regulars 56-61 Health & Medical Directory 70 Gibraltar’s Wild Flowers 74 Prize Puzzle food & drink 82-91 Wining & Dining on the Rock 82 Back into Balance 86 Wine Column 87 Restaurant & Bar Guide 88-90 Where to Eat and Drink
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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
6/12/08 13:20:13
business & finance profile finance
by Marcus Killick
Financial Resolutions A prosperous 2009? Ian Le Breton certainly hopes so...
By the time these words are read, the New Year will be upon us. Welcome 2009 and in my opinion, good riddance to a horrible 2008 from a business perspective. If a week is a long time in politics, the year 2008 in financial terms has seemed never ending. In my almost 30 years of professional life, I have never seen markets behave as they have done over the last year. Indeed many commentators will tell you these are the most turbulent times the world has ever seen. Confucius wished that “one should live in interesting times” and we certainly have done so recently. A year ago, who would (or could without being considered slightly mad) have predicted the changes we have seen. Oil up to record highs then halving in price, banks being rescued, or allowed to collapse, currency markets all over the place and let’s not even start on property prices, especially in the UK and Spain. So is it all doom and gloom? Are we over the worst? And what should we be doing about it in relation especially to our personal financial affairs? Easy questions to ask but can anyone be sure of the right answers any more? Never has opinion differed so widely — depending on whether as a person your glass is always half full, or of course equally half empty. What follows then is my personal take on where we
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are and some thoughts as to the way forward from here. So let’s look at the present position. Interest rates are coming down — in some places such as the UK to levels not seen for 50 years. Billions have been poured into the financial markets in
So is it all doom and gloom? Are we over the worst? And what should we be doing about it in relation especially to our personal financial affairs?
a concerted effort by governments all over the world to stabilise the system. In some cases banks have merged, been fully nationalised or at least become partly government owned. “Too big to fail” is now not a phrase to be banded about as in the past. Inflation is likely to fall in some markets; in the UK the real prospect of a period of deflation is possible — the effects are as damaging, and in some cases could be worse, than rampant inflation, so let’s hope that if deflation comes it will be a short-lived phenomenon. It is too early to judge what sort of Christmas trading period the retailing sector has enjoyed (suffered?) but well before the festive season, heavy discounts of over 50% were not difficult to find for certain goods. Of particular concern to us in Gibraltar of course is the present level of the pound against the euro. Those of us who earn pounds but spend euro over the border in Spain will most likely have to get used to a horrible exchange rate, at least in the short term. So this is all very interesting and of course
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finance important to governments and the major international banks and companies. What about you and me? The people who have to carry on earning, saving and spending. What should we be considering this New Year? Put another way, what should be considered as our New Year Financial Resolution? Of course everyone’s circumstances will be individual to them. Keeping hold of your job may be your main priority. Cutting back on those credit card debts perhaps, or if you are lucky enough to be “cash rich” with no real debt, how should you be looking at the markets? In all cases I suggest you take the time now to have a full review of your position. If, like me, you are employed in the financial services industry, you may well have all the information you need to assess the way forward for yourself. If not, take the time (and where necessary, pay the fees) to co-opt some professional help. Talking to an independent financial adviser (make sure they are qualified and regulated) can be surprisingly rewarding. Very much in the same way that a car needs a regular inspection, an independent eye cast over your finances could result in some new ideas you may not have considered in the past. When reviewing where your money is held, check if any depositor protection system is available — or other form of guarantee. It is no longer enough to rely on a good name and reputation — although that is always a good place to start. Safe havens and diversification are important in these troubled markets. Wealth Management is an often over-used phrase and we tend to mean by it the organisation of one’s affairs in terms of investments, tax planning and so on. In these days, I suggest
that the same approach should be used by all — even if in your case, the management should be simply that of your debts and day to day living costs. Reduce credit card expenditure, and certainly avoid using cards for cash advances where possible. Speak to your bank about better ways to organise your affairs — personal “deleveraging” if you will. And keep an eye on those mortgage deals should you be thinking of renewing your fixed or variable rate deal soon. The retail industry is likely to be tempting us for some time with seemingly never to be repeated offers on all sorts of goods. But do we really need these new things? If the answer to that question is yes, then 2009 is likely to be a year for picking up incredible bargains. As for when we are likely to see a real improvement in the markets generally, it is a braver man than me who would commit their predictions to paper. For the time being, my view is that 2008 should have taught us we should never take anything
for granted again. Diversify your options across the financial spectrum; make sure all is well structured to take account of any regulatory initiatives to come — and let’s all hope for a better year ahead. So from me, a very Happy New Year. Gibraltar remains a wonderful place to live, full of opportunity and think of this as you shiver into January. The warm weather is just around the corner. That should make us all feel a little better. n
2008 should
have taught us we should never take anything for granted again
l Ian Le Breton is Managing Director of Sovereign Trust (Gibraltar) Limited Tel: +350 200 76173 ilebreton@SovereignGroup.com
GII Membership now over 100 Members of the Gibraltar Insurance Institute met in December at the O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel for the second in a series of business briefings organised by the GII. The keynote speaker was Mike Oliver, new Head of Insurance Supervision at the FSC who was appointed to his post at the end of August 2008. “The enthusiasm that the Gibraltar insurance industry has shown to the establishment of the Gibraltar Insurance Institute is remarkable. It is also pleasing that the large membership covers all aspects of our industry; insurers, intermediaries, managers and regulators. “In many respects the interests of all four parties to our industry are firmly aligned. We all expect the market to operate in a sound and prudent manner with customers being treated fairly. By supporting its members in developing their technical and
Mike Oliver
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managerial skills the Gibraltar insurance industry can only go from strength to strength,” commented Mike Oliver. Andy Baker President of the GII went on to say: “These lunches are a key opportunity for our members to meet their colleagues from across the industry, and at the same time receive updates and information on industry issues and trends. To attract nearly half the membership for a lunch at such a busy time of the insurance year, shows how important these events are becoming” n For more information on becoming a member of the GII, or details of it’s training programmes or social events, please contact Andy Baker 200 44295 or email; abaker@argus.gi
“The enthusiasm that the Gibraltar insurance industry has shown to the establishment of the Gibraltar Insurance Institute is remarkable” GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
6/12/08 13:20:21
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Prosperous
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6/12/08 13:20:45
finance
by David Erhardt, Director, STM Fidecs Life, Health & Pensions Ltd
Employee benefits: who does benefit? When asked how much they earn, most people only consider their salary and discount any extra benefits they may receive. In reality, employers often pay significantly more than the advertised salary, and employees have a higher worth than they give themselves credit for. The recent use of the term ‘package’ to replace ‘salary’ in recruitment circles reflects an increased awareness of the wider benefits that employees receive. It is now common to include employee benefits as well as salary in job adverts, as they can add significantly to the attractiveness of the package. Employee benefits can offer major advantages to employers, too. So it is crucial that both employers and employees know what they are and how they can be measured. What is on offer? Employee benefits come in a number of forms, depending on the role and the company’s attitude to providing an attractive package for their current and future employees. They often include: • Pension scheme: provides savings for retirement and can include employee contributions. Gibraltar schemes allow the total fund to be taken out at retirement and can be tax efficient for both employers and employees
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• Private Medical Insurance: provides immediate medical treatment in the event of illness. Can be for employees only, or include spouses and/or families. It usually results in employees being able to return to work sooner after illness • Death in Service: provides life assurance to safeguard an employee’s family in the event of their death. Can be for two, three or four times
Many employees remain sceptical about their value. For example, some staff still turn down the offer of a pension scheme, even if they are not asked to contribute
salary, or a specific amount • Income protection: provides an income in the event of long-term illness or accident recovery. Can be tailored to suit specific company/employee requirements. It reduces the stress of sickness and the need for the employer to recompense valued employees • Gym membership: corporate memberships provide significant savings. A healthier lifestyle can result in reduced sickness levels and therefore greater productivity. What are the benefits to employees? The benefits should be obvious — it is effectively additional pay. Yet many employees remain sceptical about their value. For example, some staff still turn down the offer of a pension scheme, even if they are not asked to contribute. Few people would turn down a salary increase, so why turn down what is effectively a pay rise? In part, it’s because many employees would prefer cash that they can spend as they choose,
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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finance rather than get something from their employer that they may not normally buy. In addition, these benefits are very difficult to quantify. However, it is more tax efficient for employees to be reimbursed this way and, although they might not usually spend their money on them e.g. private medical insurance, they can be vital when needed. What are the benefits to employers? Offering employee benefits has several advantages. Recruiting and retaining skilled employees are the main ones, but a happy and healthy workforce cannot be underestimated. Private medical insurance, for example, can help keep staff fit and healthy with preventative care, reducing the cost of covering sickness leave. In a marketplace where there can be a shortage of skilled labour in certain industries such as Gibraltar, it is important for employers to stand out from the crowd. Offering benefits is a major attribute in helping achieve this and, as with employees, it can also be a tax efficient way to reward staff. How can benefits be measured? The easiest way to measure benefits for the purposes of advertising a package is to identify the cost of providing them. Yet this doesn’t always show the full picture, as employees of large companies may get a discount that would be unavailable to them as individuals, providing a better overall package. For example, occupational pension schemes can be much more cost effective due to economies of scale than personal pension plans.
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The true benefit is the wellbeing of the workforce, particularly in the event of actually using any of these schemes — in the case of private medical insurance or death in service, the cost of not having these can be huge. Maximising the benefits for all It’s really important for employers to spend time explaining the benefits they offer, so that the employees can make the most of what they have. Under many private medical insurances there is a significant amount of money available each year for preventative care but, due to the lack of knowledge, this is often lost. Employees need to be open about benefits other than cash and find out exactly what they involve. As job specifications increasingly detail a range of benefits, employers need to understand the power of this in recruiting, while for employees it’s about looking at the complete package. In any company, employee benefits can offer big advantages to all. n
As job specifications increasingly detail a range of benefits, employers need to understand the power of this in recruiting
DHL leads way in EcoLogistics with first carbon neutral warehouse DHL, the world’s leading express and logistics company, completed its first carbon neutral warehouse at the end of 2008 — the first of its kind in the UK; the 6,500 square foot site in West Yorkshire is the location for the main distribution centre of UK communication company O2. The project was implemented by DHL through its in-house carbon consultancy, DHL Neutral Services, as part of the company’s industry leading GoGreen Programme, which includes a commitment to reduce its carbon by 30% by 2020, and improve the cost efficiency of its supply chains. The transformation of this warehouse to carbon neutral status was achieved by installing a ground source heat pump for heating and cooling which transfers the heat from the ground into the building. In addition, changes were made to energy consumption by installing motion sensors to electric lighting systems, and the warehouse switched to a green energy tariff which provides energy from carbon-reduced sources. DHL’s local agent is AI International Couriers Ltd, 11 Engineer’s Lane, PO Box 532, Gibraltar. Tel: 200 73775.
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business
by Jonathan Garcia, ISOLAS
Gibraltar Government publishes LLP Bill The Gibraltar Government has published the proposed legislative framework for the incorporation of limited liability partnerships. The Limited Liability Partnerships Bill 2008 (the “Act”) is little more than a framework piece of legislation, only containing details of incorporation, membership and taxation. The Act empowers the Minister for Finance to adopt regulations, likely to be known as the Limited Liability Partnerships Regulations 2008, to regulate the management and winding-up of limited liability partnerships (LLP(s)). Confusingly, an LLP is not legally a partnership. It is, however — like a company — a corporate body with a continuing legal existence independent of its members, formed where two or more persons come together for the purposes of carrying on a lawful business with a view to profit. It will therefore not be appropriate as a vehicle for non-profit making activities. Generally, partnership law does not apply to LLPs. An LLP has the legal capacity to do anything that a natural person can do and exists wholly independently of its members and changes to its membership structure. It has an open ended and indefinite existence, and will continue until it is wound up. Members of an LLP are free to agree between themselves the terms of the relationship between them. This makes the LLP a very flexible vehicle. The internal affairs of an LLP (the rights and duties between the LLP and its members)
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are ordinarily set out in an LLP agreement. Even though the Act envisages that an LLP agreement will be the norm, there is no requirement for this to be in place. The agreement remains confidential between the members and the LLP and no disclosure or registration requirements apply. In lieu of having an agreement, it is envisaged that a number of “default” provisions (dealing, for example, with management, profit sharing and contribution on winding-up) will apply through the publishing of regulations. The “default” provisions are likely to produce unsatisfactory results except in the most basic and straightforward arrangements. LLPs have been primarily designed with professionals such as accountants, surveyors, lawyers and architects in mind, whose partners
as a member of an LLP, an individual’s liabilities are “limited” rather than becoming non-existent
may potentially be at risk from the careless or accidental negligence of a colleague. Under the terms of the Act, members are given limited liability without having to issue share capital, whilst having no restriction on the number of members who may form part of an LLP. An LLP may also be appropriate for a partnership where some partners are not actively involved. The basic principle, and frequently the driving factor of a conversion to limited liability, is that the liability of a member is limited to the assets that he puts into the LLP, his capital contribution and undrawn profits in particular. However, it is worth remembering that, as a member of an LLP, an individual’s liabilities are “limited” rather than becoming non-existent. LLPs may also have a place in the financial services sector, particularly in the investment funds industry. However, it is uncertain at this stage whether the scope of the Financial Services legislation will be extended so that LLPs are capable of being established as, for example, an experienced investor fund. In the event that it could, an LLP could potentially provide a popular form of collective investment vehicle, primarily because it is regarded as fiscally tax transparent with no local tax exposure. The Bill for the Act has yet to be debated and approved by Parliament. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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isolas-gibmag-nov
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finance
by Frankie Hatton
Edward Macquisten
interesting times Frankie Hatton puts some questions to Edward Macquisten, Chief Executive of Gibraltar’s Chamber of Commerce, about the financial year ahead. How do you see the Chamber of Commerce’s role in 2009? I think that the Chamber will continue to have a role in 2009 and far beyond for our members. We have just celebrated our 125th anniversary and I think it is fair to say that our members look to us at an individual level to give them advice and guidance on issues affecting their particular businesses. At a collective level they look to the Chamber to resolve issues that may affect their sector or the wider business community. How is the current downturn likely to affect Gibraltar? The initial indications we are getting from members are that next year is likely to be tough for all, but particularly tough for the retail and property sectors. I think these two sectors and the sectors that rely on them will see a reduction in turnover compared to 2008. For businesses it means that investment in expansion will be held back as demand can be met from existing capacity. For those companies who rely on borrowing to fund their day-to-day operations, the cost of borrowing has risen even though base rates have fallen. In the worst case some companies will be
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unable to pay bills and will declare themselves mean not going out for a meal three times a week insolvent. We have already seen this happen in but maybe just once or twice a month. Everyone the last couple of months. is likely to be affected in some way. What effect will it have on people generally in Gibraltar? At a practical level it means people will have less money to spend as pay rises will not be as affordable for employers as in previous years. It will mean not getting a new car every two years but maybe every five years. It will mean no foreign holidays for the family next year and going to the beach each weekend instead. It will
I think it is fair to say our members look to us at an individual level to give them advice on issues affecting their particular businesses
What about the exchange rate at the moment and the general stirrings by Spanish workers that working in Gibraltar is no longer viable? That is a choice that individuals have to make for themselves. But if people choose to work in Gibraltar then they have to accept the terms and conditions of local employers. Otherwise, go and work in Spain. It’s been hard for local employers too. Many local companies buy stock and materials in Spain priced in euros and they have seen their costs rise significantly in the last two years. Their sales though have not kept up, so they have less money for pay rises or to invest in their businesses. What help or advice can you give cross border workers? There is not really any practical advice we can give people on how to live their lives except to use a bit of common sense: don’t borrow to fund lifestyle expenditure, keep your debts low, pay
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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finance off credit cards each month and soforth. If you borrow, you are going to have to pay it back and the cost of borrowing today is much more than it was twelve months ago and the availability of credit has also been sharply reduced. That applies to people wherever they live, not just across the border.
good to be true, then it probably is.
and probably for Gibraltar. How many retailers have been affected in Gibraltar to date? I think that it is fair to say that all retailers have been affected but each to a different degree.
Where are you on the statistics that this is a cyclical event and is just a matter of getting through until the next boom? We sometimes suffer from collective amnesia and when the next boom arrives all the experts will pronounce how this time it is different and offer a host of seemingly credible reasons why: technology, globalisation, the internet etc… Many observers have said that this downturn is the worst in a generation and others have said it is as bad as the 1930s. I don’t know about that but there are elements of the current downturn which have similar parallels to Japan where I worked for four years in the early 1990s.
Is there any chance Gibraltar as an economy could be ring fenced? No. And we would bankrupt our economy if it was ring fenced. Gibraltar has no natural resources, manufactures nothing and is a small market. So we are very dependent on trade and business from outside. We are part of the joined-up global market place. But that has been a huge advantage for Gibraltar. If we had not been part of the global economy or part of the EU, then Gibraltar’s economy would not have developed to the extent that it has over the last 35 years or so and particularly in the last 10 years. The port and shipping sector would not have grown to the level it has. The finance centre would not have developed to the level it has. The tourism sector would not have attracted as many visitors. But we cannot, nor should we try to, avoid being part of the global economy. It would be the death knell for Gibraltar’s business
What would you advise people to do with their savings? The Chamber is not qualified to give investment advice but a bit of common sense should prevail. If you are lucky to have savings, be prudent and ensure they are lodged with secure institutions. Accept lower growth in return for greater security. Any investment offering a higher return than others on the market is likely to be higher risk and as we saw with shareholders in Northern Rock, the risks of losing everything are very real, despite how far-fetched the unthinkable may seem. If something looks too
We are part of the joined-up global market place. But that has been a huge advantage for Gibraltar
Why have some been affected more than others? I think that ones who have suffered less than others are ones whose offering in terms of product and prices are in greater demand. You can see this directly by looking at the stores which are busy and others which are not. Another main difference is the level of customer service. The retailers who have suffered less offer a better level of customer service in terms of attentiveness, trying to be welcoming and helpful to customers. These retailers have worked hard to train their staff about the importance of customer service. It is one of the very few ways of competing effectively, especially in a downturn. Customers are often willing to pay a little more if the treatment they receive in a shop is perceived as being good. They will often come back to that shop again and again. Conversely, if a shopper feels that they have been treated badly or worse, ripped off, then they will never go back to that shop again and they will tell their colleagues. So good customer service is worth getting right. Not enough shops in Gibraltar care enough about customer service to do anything about it. The ones that do though are likely to suffer less in the next year or so. n
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interview
Momy Levy:
by Frankie Hatton
“I’m Lovin’ It!”
As we cross from one year into the next Gibraltar Magazine caught up with our Mayor Solomon Levy and asked him a few questions about his new role, what he has coming up in 2009 and his hopes for the New Year. Momy you are first non political Mayor why do you think you were chosen? Modesty apart I think it was because I have worked tirelessly for more than 48 years for Gibraltar. Apart from my 22 years as Chairman of the Royal British Legion, 18 years as a reservist for the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, 15 years as part of the Charity Commission and 25 years as a member of the Trades Licensing Committee. All these and more show my commitment to our City. Have you enjoyed your tenure so far? To paraphrase the youth of today, “I’m lovin’ it”. Meeting people in our community and around the world and making new connections for Gibraltar. As a proud Gibraltarian I get the chance to put Gibraltar on the map. Are you looking forward to 2009 if so what are you looking forward to most? This is one of the best things for me about being Mayor. On the 28th February I am taking the salute when the Royal Marines take their Freedom of the City march through Main Street. Secondly I will have the honour of doing it again as the Royal Gibraltar Regiment also exercise their right to march through the City
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in April next year.
are noticed around the world.
Will you be making a New Year resolution or are you at the age that resolutions are all done? No I don’t believe in New Year resolutions, I feel that if something should be done then do it all year round a special day to prick your conscience isn’t necessary.
What will Gibraltar’s biggest challenge be in 2009? Well it is obvious the biggest challenge will be getting through this credit crunch and economic problems that are affecting the rest of the world. I am praying that we escape a lot of it but as they say “If someone get’s ill and sneezes in UK, Gibraltar will cough.” I hope that is all we How do you think the office of the Mayor will do and our businesses and economy fairs better than others. change now it is out of political control? Control is probably the wrong word but I hope the change from the old role into a more When you hand over to Olga Zammitt what Civic Mayoral role is the biggest change we would you like people to remember your will see. I and my successors can concentrate tenure for? on putting Gibraltar out there making sure we Hopefully they will remember I did my best for Gibraltar making people aware and voicing support for us. I have already presented silver models of Gibraltar to Jerusalem’s Mayor and to the Lord Mayor of London. In 2009 I will also present the Mayor of New York with a silver model. That and the fact that the role of Civic Mayor was established during my term.
I and my successors can concentrate on putting Gibraltar out there making sure we are noticed around the world
What is your wish for Gibraltar in 2009? Not one wish but 3, Peace, Happiness and Prosperity. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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We have a new website!
We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website, which has been developed to satisfy the needs of our current and future clients. The new website contains a wealth of information including services that we offer, a reading room, and up-to-date information regarding career opportunities with us. 28 Irish Town, Gibraltar, Tel + 350 200 72020 Fax + 350 200 72270 Email lawyers@triay.com
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business news
CTS Retail opens its doors CTS, IT and Telecoms company, opened its new retail outlet on the ground floor of Royal Ocean Plaza, Ocean Village during December. Pop in to see their new range of mobile phones and a cornucopia of innovations never seen before in Gibraltar with prices which will raise more than one eyebrow. n
Mulled Wine & Pan Dulce for Charity Staff members of Ellul & Co, one of Gibraltar’s leading law firms, were spotted out at the Piazza selling delicious homemade mulled wine and pan dulce in aid of Breast Cancer Support Gibraltar in mid-December. Locals and visitors to Gibraltar were greeted with some Christmas cheer to warm them up after several very chilly December mornings. n
Christmas cheer from the staff of Ellul & Co
Charlie Serruya appointed new chairman at the GFSB After nearly ten years of involvement with the Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses and other international organisations, Ken Robinson handed the reins to Charlie Serruya at the AGM at the end of last November.
New chairman of the GFSB, Charlie Serruya
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Charlie Serruya took over from Ken Robinson as Chairman of the GFSB at the Annual General Meeting held at the end of last November. In Ken’s final speech as Chairman he was blunt about the Government’s attitude towards small and medium sized businesses, commenting on politicians and their perceived lack of interest in promoting the business sector of Gibraltar — a section of the community which he holds very strongly in his heart and a sector which he believes should be assisted, nurtured
and massaged to ensure continuity and profitability in the future. Ken has been involved with the GFSB for the last ten year and feels he has gained great pleasure and personal satisfaction from this association, although he feels it is time for new blood to take over. The new Chairman, Charlie Serruya, was seconded in during the meeting which was followed by canapes and wine for the generous turnout of members. n GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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business & finance
opportunity knocks by Brian McCann
Marjorie Thomas of the Fiduciary Group explains that because of Gibraltar’s EU status, meaning we are already adjusted to European laws, the Rock is well placed to be the jurisdiction of choice and could therefore obtain more business as a result of the intended international clamp-down.
photo: John J Wood
“
The international tightening-up on finance centres could well have a positive effect on Gibraltar
”
~ Marjorie Thomas, the Fiduciary Group 22
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Recession too can bring business to a reputable trust company such as the Fiduciary group. “Recession causes retraction, so we are seeing a growth in financial planning as people aren’t sure what to do with their money. That’s where we come in;” said Marjorie, who has been Managing Director of the Fiduciary Group since February. Originally from St Helier, Jersey, in the Channel Islands, she has over 20 years of international experience in trust and corporate services, experience gained in Florida, Geneva, Grand Cayman and Jersey. A member of STEP (the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), she is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, having been awarded the fellowship in recognition of her services to the chartered institute in Jersey. So how did she come to be in charge of the Fiduciary Group, probably Gibraltar’s largest firm of its kind, which was founded in 1982 by Isolas, the legal partnership which itself dates back to 1892 (Fiduciary works closely with Isolas although they are separate entities). “I came here with my husband Craig,” she explains. “He had a short-term contract in the shipping industry here, so I came along for what I thought would be just a few months.
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business & finance But he was asked to stay on a permanent basis and, as luck had it, Peter Isola is also a director of Craig’s company. After seeing my CV he offered me the position here, which was to replace him as Managing Director to enable him to remove himself from the day-to-day running of the business and focus at a higher strategic level as Chairman.” Bright and with an air of friendly efficiency, Marjorie has been in charge of the group’s professional services and its 60 staff since February, and she and her husband have no intentions of leaving Gibraltar. “We enjoy living here — the small town atmosphere and the friendliness of the people were the major factors in this decision,” she said. “As far as we are concerned, Gibraltar is now our home in the short and long term.” She added that the people at Fiduciary make it a great place to work, and that the excellent communication the group has with the experienced regulators at the FSC is a big help in developing the business in accordance with best practice — both internationally and locally. The growth has led to a new entity, Fiduciary Fund Administration Ltd, which has been established to provide a focus on their local product base. This is in addition to the other parts of Fiduciary, which cover company management, wealth management, trust companies, fund administration and marine services. Financial advice and solutions are provided in the areas of trust structures, family office administration, real estate investment, tax planning, succession
and inheritance planning, and the registration of yachts and aircraft. The clients come from all sorts of walks of life and are based all around the world, from local Gibraltarians to multimillionaires and internationally mobile clients. Some of the clients’ relationships with Fiduciary and Isolas go back over many generations. The main aim of the group is to help the clients protect the assets they already have while
Clients come from all sorts of walks of life and are based all around the world, from local Gibraltarians to multimillionaires and internationally mobile clients. Some of the client relationships go back over many generations
at the same advising them on how to manage their assets for long-term growth. To service them effectively, the Fiduciary Group also has offices in London and Zurich as well as the Gibraltar head office, and all of them have multilingual practitioners to reflect the international nature of the clientele. The highly professional standards are visible throughout Fiduciary, from the moment you step through the revolving door at Portland House into the reception area of palatial proportions and through to your meeting with Marjorie or one of her staff of professionals — and of course, the group’s longevity is the best testament to its reliability and combination of skills. Thoroughly independent, Fiduciary’s in-house advisers are backed up by the policy of outsourcing to banks, property managers and other professionals according to each client’s needs and location. As Marjorie summed it up, “We carefully control the range of services we provide by acting as independent overseers on behalf of each client, and everything we do is tailored to suit their needs and interests. Everyone is treated on an individual basis — there is no one-package-suits-all policy.” n The Fiduciary Group operates from Portland House in Glacis Road, sharing its ground floor entrance and reception with Isolas. The Gibraltar telephone number is + 350 200 76651 (fax + 350 200 42599) or you can email Marjorie at marjorie. thomas@fiduciarygroup.com, or simply info@ fiduciarygroup.com
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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE – January 2009
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2008
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December 2008
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finance
by Paul de Beresford
A New Year: A New Dawn
As the World, from Japan eastwards to Europe, is being told to look forward to a future with less job certainty, less pension security and lower expectations of rising equity values in our homes, Gibraltar looks on wondering if we can continue to have it all. The last decade has seen unprecedented rises for Gibraltarians in incomes, larger and better homes, improved state pensions, fashionable and cheaper clothing and household items, bigger and more cars, greater provision and take-up of higher education, home ownership as the norm and becoming the major investment, more and longer holidays to further flung places and more and better entertainment. But although most pundits do not expect Gibraltar to be as affected by the global recession as others – even if it turns out to be permanent – nevertheless, we might not hear the expression “never had it so good” for ever and ever. It is just possible that even if there is less money (in real terms) ahead of us, life in Gibraltar will continue to be still thoroughly fruitful and satisfying. As Gibraltar has no manufacturing industry anyway, the expected competitive growth of Brazil and India, and perhaps less than previously anticipated in eastern Europe, will not result in any down-turn here. With a very high proportion of its work-force engaged in the public sector, financial services and the professions, and more of the trades and also
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the less skilled occupations being performed by outsiders, any pain from a global slow-down, will impact less upon Gibraltarians and more on those outsiders. With a massive programme of infra-structural development and improvement being undertaken right now and so much planned for the future, including a new airport terminal building, several new car parks, re-configured road networks, schools, mental health facilities, a re-located prison and power station, a new social housing estate, new hotel and additional
Above all, the absolute certainty of bumping into several people you know every time you walk down Main Street with whom to enjoy a coffee in any one of a number of cafes
marina, to name a few, all funded from a low public debt base, Gibraltar is certainly going to look entirely different in 10 years’ time. However, let us just think for a moment how good life is here and how stress-free and enjoyable it is without the need for ever-rising unsustainable incomes. Even if we finish-up having to spend more of our money on the basics (as well as the luxuries of life) because of higher consumption of food, cotton, steel, chemicals and oil in the new tiger economies, we still will benefit from one of the best qualities of life on the planet as exemplified by the following sample list: l A free universal comprehensive and generous health service for all those working or retired (and their dependents) and paying social insurance l A better than adequate education system, without failing or “sink” schools, including tuition fee-free higher education with maintenance grants which are non-means tested l No road tax
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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finance l No television or radio licence fees and l Good weather, resulting in less need to spend cheaper multi-channel viewing on heating and heavier clothes l No double taxation of unspent income (sav- l Personal service in banks, public offices, ings) of bank and building society interest insurance companies and utilities without the frustration of having to use call centres located elsewhere l Cheap or free public transport on clean, new buses l Above all, the absolute certainty of bumping into several people you know every time you l No indirect taxes (duty and/or value added walk down Main Street with whom to enjoy tax) on services (eg. lawyers’, property a coffee in any one of a number of cafes. maintenance agents’, electricians’, plumbers’, hairdressers’ fees and charges or on restaurant or bars tabs or insurance premiums So if property prices do not rise as much in the future and greater efficiency is required from l Apparent fairly high headline personal tax the working population and large gas-guzzling rates for local workers, but extremely high cars are phased out, there is no reason to be deductible allowances and exemptions (es- gloomy about 2009 and beyond for anyone in Gibraltar. n pecially for pensioners) l No taxes on capital gains from investments, or on inheritance l Relatively low taxes on occupation of property (rates) l No parking meters (yet!) l Quite cheap petrol, cigarettes and alcohol l No real need for cars anyway in such a small self-contained place, whereas in many countries, even the low-paid need cars to get to work from where they can afford to live
Let us just think for a moment how good life is here and how stress-free and enjoyable it is without the need for ever-rising unsustainable incomes
photo: JJ Wood
Paul de Beresford is a semi-retired UKqualified tax practitioner specialising in residence, domicile and relocation. He can be seen by appointment at his Main Street office (by appointment) or contacted by email at beresford@gibtelecom.net or on +350 200 400 93 or +350 54004414
Happy New Year from the Quad Team
If your resolution this year was to find a New Career then visit our website, it offers you a full range of services and information, including jobs and career advice.
If you are looking, thinking of looking, or just want to be notified of the latest vacancies then register online and create a Quad Career Seeker Account, allowing you access to: l l l l l
All of Quad’s latest vacancies Edit your availability Register for Career Seeker mail alerts Track the status of your applications View and edit your CV online
Our jobs are updated on a daily basis, the jobs you see on our website are all current. Our consultants are always available for an informal chat, so if you do have any questions please e-mail us for a call back.
Contact us: ICom House 1/5 Irish Town Gibraltar Tel: 200 73158 or 200 76216 Fax: 200 48697 email: steven@icom.gi stef@icom.gi
www.quadconsultancy.com 00 350 200 44517 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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property
by Justin G Bray, Bray Properties
Some of Gibraltar’s leading banks are again offering very attractive variable and fixed rate mortgages, giving new house buyers and those on tracker mortgages the peace of mind in knowing their monthly payments will not rise for the foreseeable future
2008:
A Rollercoaster ride without the fun of the fair
!
To describe 2008 as turbulent could be the understatement of the century. For many, 2008 has been all about mitigating one’s exposure rather than capitalising on opportunities. At the beginning of the year property in most parts of the world was seen as a good investment, then the crisis that began in the US housing sector cast this in to doubt and an increasing number of people moved their investments to the banks. With the high interest rates being offered to savers, especially
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by Icelandic banks it seemed a sound move, but within months, and with the benefit of hindsight this seemed a less than inspired decision. Then, almost as if playing a game of catchup, the Bank of England’s monetary policy committee reduced the base rate during Oc-
tober and November to its lowest level since the early 1950s, and intimated that further reductions could be on the way. It is understandable then why some investors found themselves making more moves than a grand master chess player and dizzier than a child on a merry-go round! As 2008 draws to a close, the world’s leading economies are continuing to do their utmost to avoid a global financial recession, and the impact of this is having a positive effect on the local housing market. Some of Gibraltar’s leading banks are again offering very attractive variable and fixed rate mortgages, giving new house buyers and those on tracker mortgages the peace of mind in knowing their monthly payments will not rise for the foreseeable future. In times when even the prices of basic necessities such as food, electricity and water are shooting through the roof it is re-assuring for home-owners to know their greatest single monthly outgoing will not increase, and whereas only a short time ago, £1000 in the bank would achieve £37 in interest, that £1000 will now only received £20 per annum. With such a low return on their money, many people are returning to bricks and mortar as a long-term savings plan. Although it may sound bizarre, the continuing weakness of the Pound against the Euro does have positive side-effects. The downward spiral of the Pound has significantly spurred outward investment interest in Gibraltar and made the Rock even more appealing. In a Europe dominated by the Euro, there are few places where Europeans can directly benefit within their borders from the strength of their currency and with the possibility of parity between the Euro and Sterling more of a likelihood, there is now an appreciable increase in the number of individuals and corporations attracted to the Rock by our currency’s low value. With 2009 now just around the corner, the past twelve months have shown it is impossible to predict the future, but even without the aid of a crystal ball, the future outlook for Gibraltar is bright. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
6/12/08 14:14:26
You don’t have to be that exceptional …
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The Keyplan Mortgage product is offered by Jyske Bank (Gibraltar) Ltd., licensed by the Financial Services Commission. License No. FSC 001 00B. Jyske Bank Private Banking is a business unit of Jyske Bank A/S, Vestergade 8-16, 8600 Silkeborg, Denmark, CVR-No: 17616617, regulated by the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority, and the Financial Services Authority. Please remember that your property or home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or other loan secured on it. The Keyplan Mortgage may not be offered to everyone, e.g. residents of the USA. 0808_210x297_The_Gibraltar_Magazine_Tessie.indd 1
24-06-2008 09:35:57
“
20 years
of home design Whether you’re looking for classical style or a modern finish, Denville Designs has the flair and 20 years of satisfied clients who can testify to their dedication and passion. When Jane Hart first set out as the sole agent for Ducal furniture and Old Charm Oak in Gibraltar selling door-to-door she could hardly have envisioned the ways her business would move forward over the next 20 years. In those first couple of years she built a reputation in interior design and in 1990 opened her first shop in the ICC. “We decided we needed show space to help encourage business from the new properties which were being built on the first reclamation areas such as Harbour Views.” Although the business has not grown conspicuously in physical size, her clientele has. Denville Designs’ dedication to bringing top quality products direct from the UK at extremely reasonable prices and with quick delivery time has been the key to customer satisfaction. 20 years ago, their Ducal furniture took up to 16 weeks to deliver, but now the shop holds a varied stock of occasional pieces of furniture, lighting, drapes and curtains, whilst the larger items are shipped in on order in just two to three weeks. When you take into account that from within the UK it will take this time to have your dining room delivered, Denville’s
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We can design and fit an empty home down to the last knife and fork for round about £10,000
“
property
in their home and listening to their needs and ideas. From there they make suggestions which may work and between them and the client tweak the details to find an overall effect which will work perfectly for the client. “Many people don’t realise just how inexpensive our services can be,” Meme told us. “We can design and fit an empty home down to the last knife and fork for round about £10,000.” Both are more than comfortable working in a modern or traditional style. “The buy-to-let business in Gibraltar has really been able to take advantage of our services,” added Jane. “It makes a huge difference when a prospective tenant views a property to find a well thought out interior rather than just the bare minimum to move in. It adds value to the rental and if you budget correctly, you’ll find it much easier to let your property on your own terms.” Apart from home design, Denville Designs has also branched out into the office and business environment. Having recently re-designed the interiors for the GBC offices and some other well known finance companies, this is an area they are really expanding into for the coming years. “It is the way forward and the way we see our business growing over the next few years,” Meme explained. “It’s an exciting challenge to develop larger and more open areas and to coordinate a feel throughout by careful selection of furniture, materials and adornments.” n You can contact Jane or Meme at Denville Designs at 62 Engineer Lane, by phone on 20044012 or email: jane@denvilledesigns.com
delivery times are extremely good. “Clients also enjoy having a couple of weeks to prepare for the arrival of their order — to organise the space and discard old furniture too, the majority of people need this lead-in having ordered their new furniture,” Jane added. But Denville Designs is not just for furniture order and delivery. Between Jane and her daughter, Meme, they offer a complete design service and often have taken on projects where they are given the keys and told to “Get on with it”. Meme enjoys working with clients, especially those who “have a combination of taste, confidence and the willingness to trust you to get it right.” She also pointed out Denville’s commitment to keeping up-to-date on the London design scene, attending shows in the UK up to three times a year to keep their connection to the trends. Hence the shop itself, now situated at the top of Engineer Lane, has the air of a boutique from Knightsbridge. The personal attention the mother and daughter team offer clients is another key to their success. Jane believes firmly in sitting down with a client
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profile
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new appointments
n Hawkins joins Fiduciary / Isolas With the majority of his career life based in Human Resources and CIPD qualified, Peter Hawkins took up employment with Fiduciary and Isolas at the beginning of October last year as HR Manager. Previously employed in the UK with British Rail Engineering Limited, Peter moved to Gibraltar four years ago for a new start and a fresh challenge. On moving to Gibraltar, due to family ties, he was first employed as a consultant HR manager at AN AMRO until they were taken over by SG Hambros. Peter Hawkins is enjoying settling into his new position and is looking forward to the challenges ahead. n
Isabel Duque-Castilla — originally from Algeciras (Cadiz) Spain — has recently relocated to Gibraltar after eight years in Dublin (Ireland), where she worked in several investment companies. Now in the position of Administrator for Gibraltar Asset Management at 1 Irish Place she looks forward to the challenges provided by her role in this dynamic growing company. Managing Director of GAM, Mark Maloney, commented: “Gibraltar Asset Management is pleased to welcome Isabel Duque-Castilla to our expanding team of investment professionals. Isabel brings several years experience of working in the hedge fund and stockbroking industry in Dublin, Ireland. The experience gained with NCB Group and Quantum Investment Capital Limited broadens our skill set and enables us to further enhance our client service.” n
n Duque-Castilla joins GAM
CHARLES GOMEZ& COMPANY
n Vacancy:
Marine Surveyor The Government of Gibraltar invites applications for appointment as Marine Surveyors with the Gibraltar Maritime Administration. This is an opportunity to join a Maritime Administration which is growing quickly and the duties are varied and interesting and include: conducting ship surveys, flag and ILO inspections and ISM/ISPS audits of Gibraltar ships; PSC inspection, survey of harbour craft, examination of seafarers and approval of service providers for the maritime industry. The appointment is on contract terms, initially for three-years. Further particulars from the Maritime Administrator 200 46862. Application forms from the Human Resources Department, 83-86 Harbour’s Walk, New Harbours, Rosia Road, Gibraltar, (Tel 200 51685, email: humanresources@gibraltar. gov.gi), should be returned with brief career resume by Thursday 8th January 2009. n
Barristers & Acting Solicitors C o m m i ss i o n e r s f o r o a t h s c o n ta c t u s : P o b o x 6 5 9 , 5 S e c r e t a r y ’s L a n e , G i b r a l t a r Te l : + 3 5 0 2 0 0 7 4 9 9 8 F a x : + 3 5 0 2 0 0 7 3 0 7 4 email: charles@gomezco.gi w e b s i t e : w w w. g o m e z c o . g i
C l e a r Simple Legal Advice 30
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finance
by Mark Maloney, Managing Director, Gibraltar Asset Management
Mark Maloney
Investment Master Class
Preference Shares With the world’s major countries slipping into recession, many investors are taking their money off the table and placing their assets in cash. Unfortunately interest rates are falling as central governments scramble to protect their precariously balanced economies. Their bond yields have been driven down to unseen levels as the flight to safety has begun in earnest. This was recently witnessed by US Treasury bills which saw yields fall to –0.02% i.e. investors were actually paying the US government to hold their money for them. Not only that, cash held in the bank has proven to be not as safe as previously assumed with accounts being frozen at well known institutions such as Icesave amongst others. Even capital guaranteed structured products have been exposed with their “guarantee” only being as good as the guarantors’ ability to remain in business. This is leading investors to seek more adventurous ways of preserving the purchasing power of their capital and providing sufficient income. One interesting part of the stock market, which tends to attract little attraction but provides high levels of income is the market in preference shares, which typically yield more than 7%. Preference shares are a special class of share, issued mostly by banks and insurance com-
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panies, which pay a fixed dividend net of tax. They are generally regarded as slightly lower risk than ordinary shares because they rank ahead of ordinary shareholders in the event of liquidation but they rank below corporate
Most preference shares are irredeemable, which means there is no set maturity date. Thus, like undated gilts, the prices of preference shares tend to be more sensitive to movements in interest rates than shares with a fixed redemption date
bonds. Preference shareholders are compensated for not receiving the growth element and rising dividends of ordinary shares nor the additional security of a corporate bond by the higher rates of interest on offer. It may be rare for a big company to collapse, but it is possible that a troubled firm may not be able to pay a dividend to all shareholders (though only three out of the 100 existing issues are currently in arrears). Again, preference shareholders benefit because companies have to pay preference dividends in full before they can pay an ordinary dividend. Many preference shares are also cumulative, meaning if the company misses a payment, the dividend rolls up and has to be paid in full, including any arrears, before the company can resume paying dividends on its ordinary shares. Most preference shares are irredeemable, which means there is no set maturity date. Thus, like undated gilts, the prices of preference shares tend to be more sensitive to movements in interest rates than shares with a fixed redemption date although some can be redeemed either at the market price at any time or at a pre-set price (usually par value) on a specific date (known as callable prefs). It is interesting to note that yields are mainly affected by the perceived standing of the company in terms of financial robustness rather than the fact whether they are cumulative or callable. For example, cumulative preference shares tend not to have noticeably lower yields than non-cumulative ones, despite the greater likelihood — although no absolute uncertainty — of the dividend payment being made in full. Likewise callable stocks can be less volatile than irredeemable prefs close to the date at which redemption may happen, yet do not tend to have lower yields. There are pitfalls to be aware of when investing in preference shares. A takeover might result in unreasonable terms being offered for the preference capital, or in them being left alone, but this is something of a grey area. They could be repaid at par, but this is unlikely. Liquidity can be an issue with most market makers only making prices in sizes of £25,000 at the quoted price. The spreads can also be wide with bid offer spreads of 5% or more being the norm. However we believe that the fixed interest paid by preference shares can make them ideal for income seekers. With further cuts in interest rates expected, good yields can be locked away now and they can always be sold at a later date and the cash invested elsewhere should a better rate of interest be found. Likewise the low market sizes sit well with the mindset of having a well-diversified portfolio. One preference share that warrants particular attention is the General Accident 8 7/8%. This is a cumulative pref which pays a dividend twice a year on 1st January and 1st July. The shares are pricing at 107.5p, which puts them on a yield of 8.2%. Having traded above 150p in the last three years, the shares are trading at a multi-year low, which could see investors pick up a nice capital gain as well as the above average yield in the years to come. n
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finance
Finsbury Trust: Sylvia Balloqui Retires After 20 years at Finsbury Trust, it is sadly time for Sylvia Balloqui to leave the team. Sylvia is pictured above with all her colleagues and family at a retirement party held in the Casino Calpe. Good luck to Sylvia in her retirement.
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history
by Reg Reynolds
and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Born in London in 1786 Field was a direct descendent of Oliver Cromwell. He was called to the bar in 1814 and by then had already written his first published work, An Analysis of Blackstone’s Commentaries * (see author’s note). In 1816 he travelled with his wife Jane (nee Cairncross) aboard the women’s convict ship Lord Melville to Sydney, Australia where he took up the post of Supreme Court Justice for New South Wales. In 1819 he published First Fruits of Australian Poetry. The book was only twelve pages but it is noted for being the first book of poetry ever published in Australia. The quality of his work was hotly debated but he was credited with being one of the first to write about Australia, seeing its harsh country and curious animals, through the eyes of an immigrant. A prime example of Field’s work is Kangaroo:
Kangaroo, Kangaroo! Thou Spirit of Australia, That redeems utter failure, From perfect desolation, And warrants the creation Of this fifth part of the earth, Which would seem an after-birth, Not conceiv’d in the Beginning (For God bless’d His work at first, And saw that it was good), But emerg’d at the first sinning, When the ground was therefore curst; And hence this barren wood!
Gibraltar’s Chief Justice was 1st ‘Aussie’ poet Iambic parameters aren’t something generally associated with the legal profession but the very first Chief Justice of Gibraltar fancied himself a poet.
Barron Field (sounds like a good title for a poem) was appointed judge for the Gibraltar Court of Civil Pleas in 1829 and when Gibraltar was granted a Charter of Justice in 1830 he
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became the Rock’s first Chief Justice. He was also a close friend and regular correspondent of some of the top literary minds of his day, including William Wordsworth, Charles Lamb
Lamb claimed Wordsworth and Coleridge were ‘hugely taken’ with Kangaroo but they were close friends and certainly weren’t unbiased. Other readers were not impressed with Field’s efforts. One detractor wrote: Thy poems, Barron Field, I’ve read And thus adjudge their meed – So poor a crop proclaims thy head A barren field indeed!
In 1824 Field was recalled to England and on his return Lamb wrote, “Barron Field is come home from Sydney. He is plump and friendly; his wife really is a very superior woman.” A devoted Christian Field worked with William Wilberforce and Samuel Marsden in the fight against slavery. He wrote reviews and
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ect ed dy sis ’s ne ict re ce
usve ok he ut to ry an rk
ge ey bith
on me y;
ilhe nd
history pamphlets including the awkwardly worded A Vindication of the Practice of Not Allowing Counsel for Prisoners Accused of Felony to Make Speeches for Them. In December 1828 Field accepted the position of ‘advocate-fiscal’ in Ceylon but surrendered it almost immediately when he was offered the judgeship in Gibraltar. On learning of the Gibraltar posting Wordsworth wrote: My dear Sir, It gives me great pleasure that your destiny is changed: Gibraltar is rather a confined situation, but I hope it may agree with your health and Mrs Field’s--It cannot but be greatly preferable to India--and is so much nearer home. There is not the slightest hope for my ever seeing you there-little indeed of my getting to Italy at all--Still it seems a good deal more probable that we may meet again than if your station had been the East— I write this Note as an affectionate farewell — take with you our best wishes — and God bless you I remain yours. Faithfully yours Wm Wordsworth Field would remain on the Rock until 1841 but things did not always go smoothly. In 1833 he fell out with Governor William Houston over the fate of the crew of the Spanish ship Guerrera. The Spanish coast guard vessel had been on a smuggling run when it was captured by a Royal Navy vessel. At the time the British Government was in delicate negotiations with Spain and the Governor wanted the smugglers
released. Field insisted on their imprisonment. Governor Houston complained that Field had acted ‘precipitately’ and had been ‘disrespectful’. He requested that the Chief Justice be replaced. That didn’t happen but Field was excluded from Government House until Houston’s replacement by Sir Alexander Woodford in 1835. Woodford and Field got along much better and Woodford told the Secretary of State that he had invariably received from the Chief Justice “…the fullest support and co-operation and it was his duty to bear testimony to the assiduity and talent with which he had discharged the duties of his high office.”
In December 1828 Field accepted the position of ‘advocatefiscal’ in Ceylon but surrendered it almost immediately when he was offered the judgeship in Gibraltar
During his time on the Rock Field continued to write both prose and poetry, including an excellent memoir of Charles Lamb and a short book of verse entitled Spanish Sketches published by the Garrison Library Press. In 1840 he completed his Memoirs of the Life and Poetry of William Wordsworth, with “Extracts from his Letters to the Author,” but Wordsworth persuaded him not to publish it. Shortly before his retirement, Field was involved in another controversy at Gibraltar. In January, 1841 Dr Henry Hughes, vicar-apostolic of St Mary of the Crowned was involved in a dispute with the Assembly of Elders. The Assembly of Elders had complained to Field about what they believed was a misuse of Church funds. Field agreed and ordered an injunction against Dr. Hughes. The Doctor found he could not comply in good conscience and was duly arrested for contempt. Dr. Hughes with the support of the Congregation appealed to the Privy Council and a compromise was reached. Soon after, Field retired due to ill health on a pension of 500 Pounds a year. Field spent his retirement on literary pursuits, writing poetry and reviews and editing plays from Elizabethan drama. He died at Torquay on 11th April, 1846 aged 60. His wife died in 1878 aged 86. They had no children. n * Author’s note: This was an analysis of a book on the history of the laws of England written by the respected jurist Sir William Blackstone (1723-1780).
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Jewellery
6/12/08 14:07:23
history
Engineer, Herman Sörgel, at work on his plan
the road to Atlantropa
by Dave Wood
You have to hand it to Herman Sörgel. Whether he was a genius or someone who really shouldn’t be out of the house on the night of a full moon, he thought big. When he fancied a change of scenery he didn’t just look out of another window, or take a drive into the country. His preferred option was to alter the face of the planet.
Sörgel was born in Regensburg, Bavaria, on 2nd April 1885, at a spot where the rivers Danube and Regen meet. Perhaps it was as he stood gazing at the rushing waters that the young Herman’s thoughts first turned to great feats of hydroelectric construction. The kindest thing that could be said of Herman Sörgel’s world view was that it was Eurocentric. More bluntly, he was a wild-eyed racist who considered everything and everyone non-European to be not merely inferior, but of absolutely no consequence. He feared the potential of Asia, but thought Africa and Africans so unimportant that the land and its people could be used and/or abused by Europe as it chose. When he proposed his increasingly bizarre theories and plans that involved the absorption and manipulation of Africa on a massive scale, the existence of people in that continent was hardly acknowledged. He believed that Europe needed the land for its own purposes, and saw no reason why it should not have it. Anything or anyone that stood in the way could be swept aside as carelessly as a flower arranger might brush dust
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from a table before setting a magnificent floral display at its centre. Sörgel envisioned a future world divided into three enormous superstates — American, Asian and European. He was determined that the European zone would be the dominant one, and laid plans to make it so by creating a “Greater Europe” that he first dubbed “Panropa”, and later “Atlantropa”. His master plan involved the building of two
The kindest thing that could be said of Herman Sörgel’s world view was that it was Eurocentric. More bluntly, he was a wild-eyed racist
enormous dams. One would be span the Congo river, creating a gigantic lake almost as large as the Caspian Sea that would submerge a vast chunk of the continent. It would also drown several million people and animals, but so long as all Europeans were given the chance to leave first, that was all right. In any case, the resulting fertilisation of the Sahara would bring huge benefits to Atlantropa, and therefore required no further justification. His second dam would span the Mediterranean from Gibraltar to Morocco. This would result in the partial evaporation of the Mediterranean, lowering its depth by more than 300 feet and giving Atlantropa approximately 90,000 square miles of new land to colonise. Here, Herman the idealist was at work. He believed that Europeans were constantly fighting each other because they didn’t have enough space to feel comfortable in. They were like caged animals pacing up and down, just waiting for the zookeeper to leave the cage unlocked so that they could burst out and eat somebody. The Gibraltar dam, besides giving Europe/Atlantropa the extra breathing space it needed, would also provide it with unlimited hydroelectric power via a vast power-grid stretching from Portugal to Libya. The nations of Europe would become so inter-dependent that the necessity, and even the desire to go to war again would disappear. Paradise regained. A bridge connecting Tunisia and Sicily would neatly dissect the Mediterranean into two roughly equal parts and would provide opportunities for a useful road and rail link. The new Congo Basin inland sea would, in his view, turn a previously pointless continent, so far as Europe was concerned, into something that was of real practical use. Environmental, humanitarian and ethical objections he tossed aside with bemused disdain, declaring baldly that “the fight for survival is a fight for territory”. That’s all right, then. He foresaw another bonus. The damming of the Med would force warmer water into the English Channel, and thereby heat up Western Europe beautifully. Champagne and swimming costumes all round! The Mediterranean would no longer be a sea, it would be a massive power plant. There would be huge constructions built close to Gibraltar, and Galipoli, and the Suez Canal, and the immense power they generated would provide limitless energy for Atlantropa, the Arabian peninsula, and whatever was left of Africa, which would also become an extension of Atlantropa. It was in 1927 or thereabouts that Herman Sörgel came up with his master plan. He was in luck. Had he been an obscure bespectacled anorak scribbling his thoughts in a twopenny notebook and submitting them to some obscure scientific journal with a circulation of fifteen, it is likely that his crackpot schemes would have remained unknown beyond a small circle of equally eccentric friends and fellow fantasists. But he had had the sense to marry well. His wife, Irene, was a successful art dealer with a considerable fortune. Either because she considered Herman a genius whose views should be heard, or out of a Teutonic dedication to wifely duty, or just to stop the idiot babbling on and on and on, she financed the dissemination of his extraordinary visions. He founded the Atlantropa Institute, published books and pamphlets by the dozen, and with the benefit of his wife’s money,
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history
The damming of the Med would force warmer water into the English Channel, and thereby heat up Western Europe beautifully travelled the world endlessly promoting them. Herman was on a roll. His imagination had broken loose from the madhouse and was running naked through the streets shouting Eureka! If there had been a Nobel prize for Inspired Lunacy, Sörgel would have won it hands down. Here, surely, was a Bond villain to rival them all. Dammit, the man actually wore a monocle. A dead giveaway that few people picked up on at the time. Naturally enough, Sörgel was anxious to sell his scheme to the Nazis. Surely in Adolf Hitler, the megalomaniac’s megalomaniac, he would find a sympathetic ear? But here, for once, his luck deserted him. For one thing, Hitler’s view of the future demanded the world under the German jackboot. Other European nations meant as little to him as Africa did to Herman Sörgel. But there was another problem. Irene Sörgel may have been rich, but she was also Jewish, as were many of Herman’s more prominent supporters. Consequently, far from being warmly adopted by the Nazis, he found his writings banned in Germany in 1942. One distinguished Jewish Atlantropean enthusiast, the architect Erich Mendelsohn, was engaged to redraw the coastline of the radically altered post-dam land of Palestine. His papers were lost when he fled Nazi Germany in 1933, but a few months before his flight he gave an enthusiastic speech in support of Sörgel’s plans in Zurich. He thought that society was in crisis, and that the answer lay in “world restructuring”. Why mess around with regime change when you could redesign the planet? Warming to his theme, he declared: “The upcoming world will allow the nations their characteristics, but unites them into a comprehensive community. Because the problems of the new world affect all peoples as one, we cannot retreat! The speed of traffic has crowded the nations close together, forces them into larger units in order to avoid getting crushed. We must achieve a state of methodical exchange: of food and capabilities, of production and ingenuity. For this great supra-national tasks are needed that create new space, new territory, new workspace.” Or, if you’re an African living in the Congo, death by drowning. Incredibly, or perhaps not, his barmy ideas gained some measure of support from a wide circle of intellectuals. An intellectual, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, is “a person possessing a highly developed intellect”. “Intellect”, is defined as “the faculty of reasoning, knowing and thinking”. In other words an intellectual is someone who doesn’t get out much, and spends much of his time staring at the wall sucking a pencil. Small wonder, in retrospect, that a significant number thought that building a dam across the Straits of Gibraltar and drowning a few million people to keep the lights burning
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Artist’s impression of the dam
in Atlantropa was an absolutely spiffing idea. After the war, with Hitler safely out of the way, Sörgel’s plans flowered anew. In 1950, they inspired a film, Atlantropa: Der neue Erdteil — Das Land der Zukunft (Atlantropa: The New Continent, Land of the Future). By now, Herman was undeniably a cult figure, beloved of the same new age travellers and proto-hippies who lionised the likes of Immanuel Velikovsky (Worlds in Collision, 1950) and the psychic prophet Edgar Cayce. That being so, his curious death on 25th December 1952 was bound to inspire conspiracy theories. It might have been Christmas Day, but students were content to forego their beer and excessively large dinners to gather at Munich’s university to hear the man lecture. Sörgel set out to cycle there, and on the way he was knocked off his bike and killed by a hit and run driver who was never caught. “Silenced by the Establishment!”
After his death, the Atlantropa project settled sedately into the sphere where it truly belonged: science fiction and that strange shadowland that borders the physical world
his supporters cried, pointing out that the road on which the alleged “accident” occurred was as straight as an arrow. They were ignoring the possibility that, unlike the students, the anonymous driver may not have foregone his Christmas beer and cheer and that to him (or her), the road may not have resembled a straight line at all. And Sörgel, let us remember, was 67 years old and wore a monocle. After his death, the Atlantropa project settled sedately into the sphere where it truly belonged: science fiction and that strange shadowland that borders the physical world and is inhabited entirely by shamans, mystics, dragons and unicorns. When Gene Roddenberry wrote Star Trek: The Motion Picture in 1979, he included a scene where Starfleet captain James T. Kirk stands gazing out from Sörgel’s completed Gibraltar dam. He may have read Sörgel’s works, but it is more likely he learned of his ideas second-hand through the writings of Willey Ley, in particular his 1954 book, Engineers’ Dreams, in which they were summarised. Perhaps we should not be quite so harsh. In spite of its many obvious faults and impracticalities, and its overt racism, Sörgel’s grand scheme did have its roots in a kind of naïve, if twisted idealism. He had seen Europe torn apart by war, and wanted to ensure that it never happened again. By giving the countries of Europe more breathing space, albeit at the cost of Africa, he thought war, which in his view was synonymous with the quest for territory, would become unnecessary, even impossible. But if the road to Atlantropa was paved with good intentions, we should remember that the same is true of Hell. n
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portrait of an artist
monkeying around in watercolours
Deborah Lawson:
Like an interesting Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde of watercolours, here’s a new artist in town who feels at home with both figurative portraits and bright flowery abstracts. 38
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by Elena Scialtiel Yorkshire-born Deborah Lawson has been in Gibraltar for just two years, enough to fall in love with the artistic potential of some of its most singular assets: the monkeys and Camp Bay waterfall. After her successful Gibraltar debut at the Spring Art Exhibition, where one of her entries was sold, a collection of Deborah’s watercolours portraying the Barbary macaques was exhibited last November at Sacarello’s, together with other ‘safer’ subject matters, like flowers galore, children and stunning views of the Rock. She loves to paint the monkeys that she appreciates as one of Gibraltar’s most iconic tourist attractions, worth being reproduced in their full near-human expressiveness, particularly when carrying their babies. However, because getting them to sit for their portrait is quite a… erm... monkey business... Deborah, paints them from photographs taken on her Upper Rock excursions. For people portraits on the other hand, she’d rather have the person posing for her live in a number of sittings that sometimes can have an unexpected outcome, like the curious story of the mystery girl Laura, whom Deborah portrayed both in watercolours and oils — the first exhibited at Sacarello’s and the second recently entered in the 35th International Art Exhibition. The sitter and artist met at her UK local pub and Deborah was struck by Laura’s stunning yet modest grace — a massive mane of wavy blonde hair, big expressive eyes, perfect oval… so over a couple of drinks, Deborah asked her to model for a challenge to her portrayal skills. The girl agreed but, once the artwork was finished, Deborah wasn’t able to contact Laura to present her with it, despite enquiring at the pub and even through the newspapers, so she brought it over to Gibraltar with the rest of her sketches and tools, and extrapolated the more ‘idealised’ oil version, where Laura becomes an ethereal nymph incarnating the canons of Renaissance beauty. Since then, she always makes sure to jot down your details when commissioned to paint children’s or pets’ portraits, in which she best expresses her representational style, delivering soft-toned, romantic and elegant impressions to be forever treasured. If Deborah likes to keep her people realistic, she loves to let her hair down like Laura’s with landscapes and garden flowers, which she captures equally well with either photographic precision or abstract splendour, transforming them into splodges of pure colour flowing like fireworks seen through a frosted glass window. A series of three matching pictures featuring poppies from her garden illustrates the process that takes Deborah from true rendition to freeform conceptual impression, and although the viewers can be puzzled by this extreme evolution, they understand they’re witnessing the eclectic genius of one Janus of art — gazing with even confidence at tradition and innovation. Deborah likes to let the paint dance freely on paper, exploiting its ‘intrinsic properties of translucency and granulation’ which mirror textures found in nature, without controlling it in a fashion that could leave behind visible brush marks. This method allows room for unpredictability and for the artwork to somehow paint itself, but the downside is having
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portrait offestivites an artist
COMMERCIAL INTERIORS SPECIALISTS
to bin many mistakenly soaked sheets before getting to the wanted effect! For her, fine arts beckoned from a young age, but as a teenager faced with the dilemma of pursuing the vocation more likely to butter her bread, she picked social work as her academic career and livelihood. It wasn’t until her children were both in school that she decided to rekindle her first love and, taking advice from a friend who had enjoyed the experience, she overcame her fears of being an adult student and off she went to study Art & Design at Bradford College, gaining a BA Hons in painting and textiles. Soon she got commissions from several firms connected with the construction of Gateshead Millennium Bridge and her works were incorporated in video format into the 2001 exhibition held by the architects at London’s Science Museum. She also painted the works in progress on canal restoration projects and the refurbished Coast Guard Station at Robin Hood’s Bay, one of her quaintest seascapes. From the rolling hills of Yorkshire to the angular vertical skyline of Gibraltar, has Deborah adjusted to seeking inspiration in the way land and seascapes here blend with urban sceneries? Experimenting with the Rock’s shapes and colours is another of Deborah’s goals — besides playing with shades like crimson, ultramarine and raw sienna that
transform the Rock’s triangular outline into a surreal island beyond time and space befitting the set for a fantasy movie, she takes the plunge in our own waterfall, whose artistic value is often forsaken, and shoots it to stardom in a sublime abstract triptych. Watching the three paintings, similar in structure but different in coloration, onlookers feel as if they’re standing behind the waterfall, watching the vegetation around it through the spraying and bubbling stream of water, with the added sense of vertigo that might make them wonder whether they’re actually upside down… Missing her big garden, where she cultivated her subject flora which allowed her scope to explore both figurative and abstract, Deborah is now planning to expand her horizons to the exotic cacti, trees and plants at the Alameda Gardens. Her interest in cityscapes is tantalised by the eclectic architecture Gibraltar can offer, from narrow alleys to sun-kissed façades seemingly built for the sole purpose of being immortalised in watercolours, as well as busy open spaces like Main Street, Casemates or the beaches, a source of inspiration for pretty animated scenes. n Enough material to start putting together her next exhibition, isn’t it? In the meantime you can contact Deborah Lawson on mobile 54007258 or e-mail debneal204@ gibtelecom.net for private viewings or watercolour lessons.
Eclectic architecture Gibraltar can offer, from narrow alleys to sun-kissed façades seemingly built for the sole purpose of being immortalised in watercolours GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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wish all their clients & friends a very prosperous 2009
2 Crutchett’s Ramp, Gibraltar Tel: 00 350 200 73992 Fax: 00 350 200 41724 Mobile: 00 350 5400 6335 email: loraine@spaceinteriors.gi www.spaceinteriors.gi 39
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history
Spying for Russia on the Rock by Reg Reynolds
He was German by birth, grew up in South Africa, spied for Russia for 20 years and was quite probably responsible for British deaths during the Falklands War. Dieter Gerhardt twice visited Gibraltar in the months before the Argentine army invaded the Falkland Islands, indicating that the Russians were aware that General Galtieri was planning the invasion. It is known that Gerhardt observed submarine operations at Gibraltar and passed on secrets of the Royal Navy’s Polaris programme to the Soviets. Gerhardt was allowed to tour sensitive areas because at the time he held the rank of Commodore and was the commanding officer of South Africa’s strategic dockyard at Simon’s Town. The position gave him good reason to visit the Rock and pretend to have an interest in the dockyard while actually spying on naval operations. The fact that he was an acquaintance of South African President P.W. Botha would also have opened doors for him. Because of his high rank Dieter was able to use intelligence reports from South Africa’s top secret maritime station called Silvermines. Through this system he was able to track the movements of the Falkland Fleet and pass the information to the Soviets. It is believed that some of this information was passed to the Argentines and probably resulted in the deaths of Royal Navy sailors. Dieter Felix Gerhardt was born in Germany (1936) the son of an architect who moved to South Africa early in 1939. When World War II broke out Gerhardt’s father was considered a security risk and the family was interned in a detention camp for the duration. It is this action that Gerhardt claimed caused him to turn against his adopted country and the West. When he was 19 Gerhardt joined the South African navy. He graduated near the top of his class and was awarded the sword of honour from the Simon’s Town Naval Academy.
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In the 1950s Gerhardt trained at the Royal Navy Mine School at Portsmouth and completed the Parachute Training Course at RAF Abingdon. It was during this time he met his first wife, British-born Janet Coggin. They married in 1958. It was in 1962 that Gerhardt turned to spying. He had been sent to England to train on new weapons at the Manadon Royal Naval Engineering College at Plymouth. One day he took leave and went to the Russian Embassy in London where he offered the Soviets his services as a spy. On the same day he met a KGB agent named Ruth Johr who would later become his second wife. Gerhardt grew wealthy from his spying. It is believed he earned as much as $250,000 for the valuable information on missile technology that he passed to the Russians. His large home in Cape Town was the envy of neighbours and contained expensive works of art and Persian rugs. When asked how he could afford to live like an Admiral on a Commodore’s salary Gerhardt claimed to have been given an inheritance by his
Gerhardt grew wealthy from his spying. It is believed he earned as much as $250,000 for the valuable information on missile technology that he passed to the Russians
mother and to have had remarkable luck gambling on the horses and playing the lottery. First wife Janet later told authorities that she became aware of her husband’s Cold War spying activities in 1966 but didn’t turn him in because she was afraid he would be executed. When he insisted she also become a spy she divorced him and moved with their children to Ireland where she lived in constant fear of retribution from the Soviets. In 1999 she wrote a book about her experiences titled The Spy’s Wife (Constable). Gerhardt was finally exposed by Soviet defector Vladimir Vetrov, who reported him to the American CIA. In 1983 Gerhardt was taking a degree in mathematics at New York University. The Federal Bureau of Intelligence set up a sting operation and caught him red handed. Gerhardt was deported and tried in camera at Cape Town. More stunning details of Gerhardt’s perfidy came to light during his interrogation. He admitted that during 1960-70 he interviewed Royal Navy recruits and claimed he persuaded many of them to work as Russian agents. At that time nuclear powered submarines were being built in South Africa for the Royal Navy. At his trial Gerhardt pleaded guilty and was given a life sentence for high treason while his wife Ruth was given a 10-year sentence for aiding and abetting. In the 1990s with changes in government in both the Soviet Union and South Africa in hard lines softened. In 1992 Presidents Boris Yeltsin of Russia and F.W. de Clerk of South Africa agreed to Gerhardt’s release. Ruth had been released before him. The treacherous couple retired to Switzerland where undoubtedly their earnings had gained considerable interest while resting in a secret Swiss Bank Account. n
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events
EV E NT:
ry F idu c ia ks & as dri n m t s i r on Ch re c epti c a n ap e V enu : Ba r e ty Wi n C e le b r i
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resolutions
by Richard Cartwright
into 2009
So here we go again, it’s the start of a ‘new one.’ Resolutions come to mind! Are you going to try the stop smoking thing again? Or is it the losing weight trauma you’re going to half heartedly tackle? Why not go for something different... There’s lots on offer.
Another Christmas has ended and you’ve overdone it in any number of areas and now it’s time to think about putting one or more of those dreadful habits, dependencies, addictions or simple inclinations right! I’ve always thought that if you are really serious about putting a stop to something or getting something going, you surely don’t have to wait for a specific date to start? Why don’t you stop smoking or seriously try, on 7th March, or diet and power walk, visit the gym or get yourself a personal trainer (if you can afford it) on 27th November? Why the beginning of a new year? But staying with the premise that the beginning of the year may be a good place to start, what about the scores of other activities you could get involved in? There’s a ridiculous amount of leisure interests and pastimes out there waiting for you to take the plunge and join. Why not try this for starters. If you feel there’s a great little performer in there somewhere, how about joining drama groups, choirs, pop groups, dance academies or the less demanding, line dancing fraternity or,
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learn to play an instrument? All of these pursuits are very much alive and kicking in Gibraltar and standards are constantly rising. If you feel pretty (or very) green about guarding the environment, protecting nature or just doing what you can do to ‘save the planet,’ go for it. The groups are out there and new members are always welcome. Helping out with the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides or St John’s Ambulance could be a worthwhile
There’s so much more. Just listen to the What’s on Diary on Radio Gibraltar and you can see how much is going on
endeavour. There’s so much more. Just listen to the What’s on Diary on Radio Gibraltar and you can see how much is going on. Those who take the initiative to get so many of these activities going deserve a medal. Youngsters have a tendency to say, “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do and nowhere to go.” Well, apart from the above you have youth clubs and the recently inaugurated Leisure Centre — get a bowling league up and running or learn how to ice skate. You can get involved in fashion and modelling or on a more strenuous tack, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme will keep your mind and body in check. Some of us, who are retired, may still feel relatively young and agile. Having perhaps had an active job, or just the simple fact that you don’t have to go to work any more, means you now have a lot of time on your hands and spare brain cells lounging around in your head that have become ‘greyer matter’. Well, what you can’t do is stay at home watching TV so here too, there’s plenty to get involved in. Start the New Year by attending an evening
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resolutions class in computer skills, languages, going to classical concerts, visiting the Fine Arts Centre and the numerous exhibitions that are held throughout the year — that will certainly keep you busy for practically the entire 52 weeks — join the John Mackintosh Hall Library, pop along to the Senior Citizens’ clubs, perhaps with a view to becoming a committee member and in that way feel you’re contributing more and keeping busy at the same time. Visit the elderly or infirm at home or become an active member of the Friends of Mount Alvernia or some other charity, write, read or redecorate, but always go for what suits your inclination (and ability of course). Count me out for redecorating, that wouldn’t be for me — most definitely not! Isn’t it true that you often hear people say that so and so is looking much older since he retired and in some cases it’s because that person is inactive physically and mentally? He or she does nothing all day long except, maybe, look after grandchildren, so you need to get thinking about what you can do and do it. In terms of new resolutions, you may feel you want to spruce yourself up a little bit, or change something about yourself you’ve been thinking needs changing — you may feel you’re a bit of an introvert or you may be shy, so try coming out of your shell a little more, perhaps wear a smile more often (all within reason and never going against the grain to try and achieve an unnatural persona). Now there’s an idea for a worthwhile New Year resolution! It’s called ‘the new me’. If you’re single, divorced or your partner
has passed away, maybe now is the time to join the With Dignity (singles) group or go along to the Speed Dating reunions recently started. Whatever takes your fancy and you feel suits your age group. Is lack of consideration one of your minuses; impatience or bad temper? Whatever it takes address it, but always within limits — delicate changes that compliment your character or personality without going over the top. Consider it a little fine-tuning here and a minor alteration there. Maybe you’ve been secretly considering some of these things yet ignoring them, pushing them to the back of your mind? Well, the New Year is here so how about turning a new leaf? The bottom line is there’s plenty to do.
Think about what you want to achieve realistically and whichever road you go down, firmness, determination and the desire to persevere are what you need
SiSSi
Nowadays I think it fair to say most people can afford spending a little on travel. Do you never go out of Gib? This year change that by going on one of the coach tours which are always on offer to Portugal, many places in Spain and beyond. We’ve mentioned cruises before but perhaps you’ve never tried one. Organise your savings and book one, you’ll love it. The fact is we’re experiencing the sunrise of a brand new batch of months called 2009. The fireworks that lit the first night of the year have gone cold and the Cavalcade has just paraded along Main Street winding down the Yuletide Celebration. It’s over, until the next time! We have to now get stuck into another pleasant year, of work and play in employment or rest and relaxation in retirement. But don’t forget this is the time to get those resolutions up and running, to achieve success. A couple or three more contrasting options come to mind before I end. How about, yoga, ballroom dancing or knitting classes at the Arts and Crafts Centre in Casemates? Take your pick, the choice is yours. Think about what you want to achieve realistically and whichever road you go down, firmness, determination and the desire to persevere are what you need. However, I have a feeling it’s going to be smoking and dieting in the main again. If that’s the case, I wish you luck and have a good, smokeless and therefore healthier 12 months and beyond, and a fat free, slimmer year and forever. Whichever or whatever you choose, hold firm and do not waver! n
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F9, 1st Floor, ICC Tel: 200 70146
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youth
by Jon Bull
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
a youthful service The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award tends to bring on images of trekking up the mountains, camping under moonlit skies, or finding your way through the mist and fog half way up Ben Nevis, compass in hand and drenched through head to foot trying to find your way back to base camp, but it’s not all like that as we found out when we talked to Michael Pizzarello — the Director of the Award in Gibraltar. The Award is actually split into four different sections which young people involve themselves at different levels depending on which Award they are working towards. The Adventurous Journey activities is just one of the four, and actually takes up less time on the schedule than the other three; Service to others, Skills development and Physical activities each of which can take up anywhere between three and 12 months to complete. “The scheme is all about commitment, broadening young people’s horizons and personal improvement in a noncompetitive environment,” explains Michael. The Award programme’s main aim is to help young people between the ages of 14 and 25 to
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develop themselves and discover new horizons and to teach them commitment to set goals. Through the Service activities, they gain experience of helping in the community — whether it be first aid with the St John Ambulance team,
Each participant is different and enjoys being a part of a process where they can make their own decisions right from the start
through the police or fire brigade or any number of community activities right through from the simplicity of helping an elderly person to take their shopping home on a regular basis. The Skills section is as broad as the imagination too, where the mentors at the Open Award Centre where the D of E Award is based, along with other volunteers help to guide young people to areas which interest them and offer them options to broaden their experience into areas which they may not be aware of. Improving reading and writing skills, learning a musical instrument or following and developing a hobby are just a few suggestions offered. This is where the Award really sets itself apart from other schemes. With no set agenda as to what each participant can or can’t do, options are explored to help the individual develop along a line which is not only of their own interest, but which will help to build their confidence in approaching new challenges as well as developing their existing skills. Each participant is different and they enjoy being part of a process where they can make their own decisions right from the start. The third aspect of the Award is physical activity, which usually takes the form of involvement in a sport, from football to wind surfing and other activities. You’ll find many of those who have gone through the course carry on in some of their activities, for example, the student who after finishing his Gold Award continued playing squash and is now near the top of the Gibraltar Squash league. A true example of how the Award helps young people to focus and achieve their goals, even after completing the scheme. You’ll also find this present in many of the mentors, Michael included, who have been through the Award Programme and have continued their involvement in helping young people achieve their aims. The benefits of the Award are across the board, it’s not just the participants who find they’ve achieved something at the end of the course. The volunteer mentors find satisfaction in helping students improve their skills and from the diversity of the activities, the local community finds benefits from many different aspects. The Award programme is an extremely positive initiative which has been running in Gibraltar since 1971 with very little difference to the way it has worked over the years. “The only real change since the start is that activities used to be segregated between male and female, with different emphasis put on activities depending on sex. This has petered out though over the years and both boys and girls can expect the same options and demands from the programme these days” added Michael. Where the Award has changed is on the global scale. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award started off as incentive with Prince Phillip as Patron and was based throughout the Commonwealth. Because of the success, the initiative is now present in over 123 countries world wide. Since its foundation in 1956 over six million young people have taken part, and since the International Award Association was set up in 1988 to further the Award internationally, the name of the scheme now changes from country to country to fit into the local culture. Prince Phillip’s title has since been changed to that of “Founder” and the Duke of Edinburgh’s name is only applied to the award in a handful of countries, Gibraltar included, due to its close ties to the UK. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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youth
FACT FILE
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was founded in 1956 by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh who remains the Patron. HRH The Earl of Wessex is a Trustee. Last year, over 275,000 young people were taking part in DofE programmes in the UK. Over 30,000 of these young people were from disadvantaged backgrounds. In total, over 4,235,000 people have participated in DofE programmes and gained over 1.76m Awards in the UK since 1956. In 1988 The International Award Association was established to coordinate and develop the DofE worldwide and, since 1956, over 6 million young people in over 123 countries have taken part. Across the world, in total over 635,000 participants are doing DofE programmes at any one time.
Expect to be exhilarated by the challenges of the Award
So how is the organisation funded? There are various levels of funding, Michael explained, and thankfully the Award is well supported locally. At present there are ten local companies who make a yearly donation to the Award and companies who wish to do so sign on for a five year period. The Award also has access to a portion of the Government budget, depending on the project at hand, in the form of the Youth Grants. But Michael was quick to point out that the real need is for more people to become involved. “The Award is growing in Gibraltar, and recently we’ve been having to cap the number of participants so as not to stretch the volunteers to their limits.” At present the Open Award Centre can handle approximately 30 young people per Award level at a time and all the places are full at present.” Other fund raising activities are project specific for example to help fund volunteer travel with an expedition, or a participant may want to raise funds to help themselves further their goals in a project which may need some financial input, (although most activities do not cost, there are some, for example horse riding, which do need the participant to cover their costs). The Award does have many facilities in place, such as tents, transport and a comprehensive insurance to cover all eventualities, so participants can come on board knowing neither they nor their parents will necessarily need to dip too deep into their pockets to achieve the Awards. For a young person heading for university or looking for their first job, it’s an interesting subject to include in a curriculum. Many companies will appreciate the commitment and development skills which have been learned from the experience and it gives a good indicator to the potential of a candidate. The United Learning Trust in the UK recently published figures from a survey on the methods major employers used to select new employees. Interestingly, the Duke GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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It’s not just the participants who find they’ve achieved something at the end of the course, the volunteer mentors find satisfaction in helping students improve their skills and the local community benefits from many of the projects too
of Edinburgh’s Award comes top of the list of important activities undertaken at school, ahead of work experience, community activities, Young Enterprise and nearly 30 other options available in the UK. In Gibraltar, the Award is not just available through schools. The team are ready to welcome any young person between the ages of 14 and 25 who would like to be involved, as well as anyone who would like to participate on a voluntary level, from teaching a particular skill through to administration help. n For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Gibraltar you can contact Michael on 20059818 or email mjpizza@gibtelecom.net
Participants in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award take part in a range of activities
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young artist
At only 17, she is one of — quite possibly the — youngest recipients of the Rudecindo Mannia Prize and, if she keeps up with her promising debut, we are bound to hear more from this artistic schoolgirl, a naturalborn painter and would-be actress and singer.
art: the youth of today... by Elena Scialtiel
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Gemma Leppard won the prestigious prize, designed to recognise the work of a young artist, at the Gibraltar International Exhibition held last November, rather out of the blue — at least for her! — having submitted her Nightmare in Wonderland at the very last minute, convinced by her mother who had the picture framed just on time for it to proudly hang ‘in a real art gallery’. It was Gemma’s mum who suggested the title too, enthused by its ominous, nightmarish and almost Freudian undertones: the more you gaze at it, the more you feel your instinctive fears of the unknown and a gasping sense of solitude surface from your subconscious — and you’re hurled into a surreal scenario infused with some kind of primordial broth. And it was wise advice indeed, since the adjudicator picked it as top of the (high standard) crop for its originality in the way the composition is personalised with Gemma’s introspection
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young artist into her previous starring in the street theatre version of Alice in Wonderland the Trafalgar Group staged at the Piazza on Spring Bank Holiday weekend a couple of years ago. Drama being her passion and career aspiration, Gemma attended the auditions hoping for a part, but not expecting to be selected for the lead, perhaps, she admits, for her physical resemblance to her dramatis persona: long blonde hair, blue eyes, naïve and sweet disposition. Alice set her imagination on fire and soon became the theme for her ‘O’ levels’ art class work, with a series of pictures inspired by both the animated movie and the book, and mixed with her own ability of stepping in Alice’s shoes and sharing her anxieties towards the wide, dark, mystifying and sometimes eerie world out there, populated by odd and outright creepy characters whose real intentions she cannot decipher as obviously as black and white. The monochrome theme is another field where Gemma excels with very ‘adult’ and modern sketches in graffiti style: black ink and white tippex flow on the page in bold lines, blots and doodles to outline the image of a guitar, or the handsome yet disturbing silhouette of the Phantom of the Opera, the subject matter Gemma has selected for her next exams, after seeing the musical in the West End and being struck by the character’s tragic grandeur, which she effectively portrays in the masterpiece abstract portrait. For someone who is a self-confessed schoolwork painter only, Gemma knows well how to attain intense, innovative heights even with the most classic of exercises: still nature — which she takes beyond academic vases and fruit baskets, and transforms into a porthole peeping on her everyday life. Her favourite is a detail from the banister at her grandmother’s: the realistic wooden knob and post at the bottom of the stairs split the frame vertically on the background of a soft dusty pink wall and window sill, accented by a water bottle and few leaves from an off-frame plant. It’s a warm evocative view of happy childhood days spent in a welcoming house, and the observer is transmitted the cosy vibe by every understated stroke. The banister appears in another still nature which tackles the hidden poetic facets of clutter, converting a pile of books and lawyer’s tools of the trade into the superstars of a miscellaneous and articulate balance of geometric shapes and contrasting colours, technical drawing and artistic expression, thus elevating ‘law and disorder’
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It’s a warm evocative view of happy childhood days spent in a welcoming house, and the observer is transmitted the cosy vibe by every understated stroke
to sheer sublime. Gemma likes doing collages of her work and merging few of her drawings into a larger, more complex one. To this purpose, she photocopies the originals, arranges them to her liking, adds ‘pulling together’ extra features and then patiently re-paints everything over in acrylics, making it a totally new picture. This is the method she followed for her winning Nightmare, a combo platter of her best coursework, with a pinch of erudite references to Belgian artist James Ensor, thanks to the skulls discreetly sprinkled between the various tableaux the picture is made up with. Alice in Wonderland plays the lead role in Gemma’s life: she presented a modern version of the tale at her Drama ‘O’ levels finals, this time taking up the challenge of impersonating the Queen of Hearts, to live her heroine’s adventures from the perspective diametrically opposite to her own temperament, like a true actress should be able to do, when cast against type. Singing is another forte of Gemma’s, one of the voices of the King’s Chapel choir — an activity which she describes ‘liberating’ and ‘relaxing’ after a stressful day at school. n
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youth work
by Mark Montovio
John certainly manages to fit much into a very busy and fulfilling life and his family remains its most important focus
John Morris:
A Lifetime of Protecting Children John Morris moved to Gibraltar in June 1998 with the intention of retiring, but a man who has been constantly active and has helped many people, for many years, could hardly do that. He is one of the recipients of the 2008 JM Memorial Foundation Awards presented to individuals who make a marked contribution to the community they are part of.
John spent 12 years in the Services, the first two years in Gibraltar in the mid-1950s doing his National Service. From 1970 until 1991 he was a Child Protection Officer with the NSPCC, initially in an industrial city in the north of England and then in southern England. He then worked part-time as an Education Social Worker and part-time as a self-employed trainer, providing child protection training
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to care staff in private schools and children’s homes. John has a Diploma in Social Work and the Certificate of Qualification in Social Work. He also has the Further and Adult Education Teaching Certificate. In Gibraltar his expertise was soon recognised and one of his major roles has been acting as an independent Guardian-ad-Litem for both the Supreme Court and the Magistrate’s
Court. This entails providing the court with independent assessments in respect of children who are the subjects of care proceedings. In January 2005 he became a founder member of a group of concerned individuals who felt children and young people of Gibraltar would benefit from having access to a free telephone helpline where they could get advice and help with any problems or worries they might have. “I am Vice Chairman of Trustees of Childline Gibraltar and, because of my background, I have responsibility for overseeing the training of the helpline volunteers and supporting the managers. The launch of Childline Gibraltar in June 2006 was the culmination of a vast amount of preparatory work by a large number of dedicated people, and I was proud to be a part of it. My main activity is helping Childline Gibraltar grow and develop. To date we have delivered six training programmes for helpline volunteers. I am also exploring the possibility of expanding the work of Childline Gibraltar into other associated areas, but the telephone helpline service will always remain as the core function. For example, Childline Gibraltar provides an Appropriate Adult service for the Royal Gibraltar Police, and managers give talks in local schools and undertake activities in youth clubs.” John certainly manages to fit much into a very busy and fulfilling life and his family remains its most important focus. “With eleven grandchildren, ranging in age from two months to 15 years, I have enormous pride in following their development and achievements, and spending as much time as I possibly can with them is very important to me. “My long term ambition is to live to a ‘ripe old age’! On a serious note though, my immediate ambition is to secure permanent office accommodation for Childline Gibraltar. We have been fortunate that Saccone & Speed have provided us with accommodation since our launch, but we have to have moved into new premises by April 2009 if Childline Gibraltar is to continue to offer its services to the children and young people of Gibraltar.” John Morris was nominated for consideration for the JM Memorial Award by Barbara Sellors. Presenting the award to John on the night, Barbara highlighted many of John’s achievements and explained why she felt John’s work deserved recognition. “As a stalwart of Childline Gibraltar, John has guided the charity and kept it on a truly professional path. This has enabled us to help very many of Gibraltar’s children. John, despite the painful effects of arthritis always puts his own ills to one side and even though he is officially retired continues to work selflessly for children in a variety of ways. I have come over time to realise just how fortunate we are to have him in our midst.” n GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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R U Ready
?
Q: When talking about sex people say “wait until you are ready”, but what does that really mean? A: Some questions you can ask yourself to help you decide include Does this feel right? Am I respected, valued, cared for by my partner? Do I respect, value, care for my partner? Will I get hurt, feel used, let down or ashamed? Am I using the other person? What do I want from this relationship? Can we talk about contraception and safer sex before we do it? Feeling under pressure? For some people it is really easy to be pressurised into doing things they don’t really want to do. This is even more so when we are young and perhaps have not had much practice at saying no. Some of the ways people may try to pressure you into having sex include: “All our mates do it” “If you don’t say yes I will have to go out with someone else” “I really love you, is there something wrong with you?” “If you really loved me you would do it” “I can’t cope with getting so frustrated” “You don’t have to worry, I’ll be careful” Feeling good about yourself can make you more confident to say no, or be happy that you are making the right decision.
Some things you need to think about before you have sex: Why are you going to have sex? Are you doing it because you feel pressured? Are you doing it because your friends have?
Are you doing it because you are bored in your relationship?
Are you under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
Do you think that your relationship will end if you say no? Are you over 16 considering having sex without someone younger than you? That is illegal. Have you thought about contraception? Do you know how to use a condom?
Have you talked with your partner about using condoms?
Are you aware of sexually transmitted infections?
Have you thought about what would happen if you got pregnant?
Could you say no confidently if you changed your mind mid-way through? If you can tick “yes” for any of the statements in red or tick “no” for any in black, it’s probably best to say ‘No’
REMEMBER, you have the right to say NO.
Want to say “NO”? What is stopping you?
What do you have to gain?
Fear of losing their love
Not feeling responsible for others or the situation
Fear of rejection Exhaustion
Hurting someone else’s feelings Embarrassment
Avoiding an argument
Fear of being viewed as incompetent Lack of confidence/ assertiveness Lack of self worth
Remember:
More time for yourself
Others become aware of your boundaries Others will respect you
Build your own self respect Feel less ‘used’
Personal satisfaction
Won’t feel angry with yourself Won’t beat yourself up Greater self respect
Boost your confidence
Increase your assertiveness
Finding out if they really care
DON’T have sex until you’re about you absolutely sure it’s what you want. Ditch partners who try to pressurize you or insult you. Don’t believe every one who says they have ‘done it’.
If you have any doubts, or think you’ll regret it, then wait. Try to make sure your first experience is as good as possible. Good or bad, you will remember it for the rest of your lives.
Confide in Dear Childline,
My boyfriend keeps asking me to have sex with him. I do not feel ready and feel pressurised to do it. I am only 15 and all my friends have already had sex and tell me it’s the right thing to do. What should I do? I do not want him to stop liking me. High School Musical Fan Dear High School Musical Fan, If he really likes you, for who you are, he would wait until you are ready. Sex is an emotional experience and should not be exploited. Your friends should understand that you are not ready and should talk to you about it, not pressurise. If you need an honest person to talk to call Childline on 8008 between 6pm-10pm. You can also speak to a Nurse Practitioner or a School Nurse at the Primary Care Centre, Monday to Friday between 8am-5pm. You can make an appointment by phoning 20072945. If you do decide to become sexually involved with this boy, remember to always use contraception, preferably a condom, as it protects you from most STIs, and consult a doctor or a trusted adult. If your religious beliefs teach against the use of contraception or you are not sure if they do, you may want to speak to a relevant adult or call Childline on 8008.
Childline
Erections Explained
Also known as “hard-ons” and “stiffies”, boys will begin to experience erections as soon as they start to mature sexually. It can occur at quite a young age and even happens in some infants, although for different reasons. This functional, yet sometimes embarrassing experience, heralds the start of a boy’s life as a fertile adult. Erections are caused when blood flows to the penis. It builds up inside it causing pressure. Inside the penis are cavernous spaces that fill up with blood and cause swelling. The swelling, caused by this extra blood, blocks off the veins that normally take blood away from the penis. When this happens, the blood pressure inside the penis rises dramatically and it enlarges and stiffens, pointing upwards. As an erection disappears, the arteries in the penis narrow again. Then the veins open, removing the blood again and the flow returns to normal.
Dear Childline,
I like my girlfriend and I want to have sex with her, but she doesn’t want to. How can I make her see that she can trust me? Hockey Fan Dear Hockey Fan, Putting pressure on someone to have sex could ruin what might have been a beautiful relationship. And you don’t have to have sex with everyone you go out with. Enjoy the relationship you have now and keep building it. You must respect her feelings now. Then when she is ready you can both enjoy it more. Childline
I’m Changing
Males an Females 1. Growth of pubic hair 2. Increased body odour and greasy skin 3. Spotty faces and visible blackheads 4. Growing pains as joints may become sore 5. Easily aroused; sexual orientation 6. Hormonal changes
Males 1. Voice deepens 2. Increase of sperm production (fertile) 3. Testicular growth 4. Body shape changes: greater skeletal muscle 5. Growth of body and facial hair
Females 1. Menstrual cycle (fertile) 2. High emotional and mood changes 3. Breast development; sore nipples 4. Body shape changes; hips widen 5. Greater vaginal secretion
Periods Explained Periods are a normal part of a woman’s life from around the age of 10-14 until about 50. This regular monthly bleeding is the most noticeable sign of a woman’s menstrual cycle, but it is not the only sign. Getting to know the other physical signs of your cycle can help you become more familiar with your own changing levels of fertility. A cycle begins on the first day of bleeding and continues up to, but not including, the first day of the next period. Women’s cycles range from 21 to 40 days or more, with and average of around 28 days. The length of a woman’s cycle may change a little or a lot from month to month. Bleeding (menstruation) can last from 1 to 8 days, with the average being 4 to 5 days. The amount of blood a woman loses during her period tends to remain the same from once cycle to the next, but some women notice a change over time.
& A Q
Interesting Facts . . .
Puberty occurs later in children raised at higher altitudes. Obesity can cause earlier breast development and menstruation before the age of 12 years old. Each sperm takes 60 to 72 days to develop. Calcium deficiency can cause irregular and painful cramping during your periods. Most men have erections every hour to hour and a half during sleep. During the 1840s the onset of puberty was at the age of 17 years, but nowadays the average age is 9-13 for girls and 11-15 for boys.
ABOUT CHILDLINE
Q A
WHAT IS CHILDLINE?
Childline is a Free Helpline Service for you to phone. Need to talk to someone? Childline is here to listen.
Q A
Puberty Puzzle
WHAT CAN I TALK TO CHILDLINE ABOUT?
At the top we have the question bubbles which you need to match up with the answers below. Let’s see how many bubbles you can match up!
You can talk to us about ANY worries or problems you have, big or small. We will listen to you and help you find ways of dealing with it.
Q A
What exactly happen s during an ejaculation ?
WHEN CAN I PHONE CHILDLINE? You can phone Childline every single day of the year on your mobile, landline or a payphone between 6pm and 10pm (before and after this time an answer message will play, reminding you of our opening times). Remember that it is free to phone us.
Childline Crossword Answers:
Here are the answers to last edition’s crossword competition F P P
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Name chang three phys ical es in boy puber s during ty.
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The bridge between being a kid and becoming an adult. As you cross this bridge, your body and your feelings change a lot. You may also feel differently about your family, friends and classmates — and view the things that they do in a whole new way.
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ier; Become curv reast spotty skin; b t. developmen
What is puberty?
physical Name three irls changes in g rty. during pube
of body Growth ulders hair; sho oice ;v broaden s deepen
The first sign that they are going thro ugh puberty, ejacul ation is the release of sem en and may occur be cause of self-stimulatio n or been involuntarily w hile a boy is sleeping. This is called a “wet dream” an d it is very normal for this to happen .
youth
Bayside Students: would you like to go to the London 2012 Olympics?
Gibraltar Olympics Inspiration
2012
Bassadone Automotive Group will be working in partnership with the Bayside Comprehensive School Sports Department to give two young people and one teacher the opportunity to win the prize of attending the 2012 Olympics for a full week, experiencing the games, watching the competitions and being part of the atmosphere. A once in a lifetime opportunity. The aim of Gibraltar Olympics Inspiration is to encourage young people not only to compete in sport inside and outside of school, but also to support the organisation, leadership, refereeing and officiating of junior sport in Gibraltar. The teacher’s competition has similar aims and will reward commitment to developing sport in school and the community. How can you enter the competition? Young people (boys) from year 8 of Bayside School and all teachers at Bayside School will be invited to register for the ‘Gibraltar Olympic Inspiration 2012’ at a series of introductory sessions to take place in January 2009. The competition, will run for 3 ½ years from January 2009 to Easter 2012. Section 1 Entrants to record sporting participation in the school environment. This section will involve entrants recording all of their extra curricular sporting participation including representing their house in competitions and attending extra curricular sporting activities on an ongoing basis. Section 2 Entrants to record their participation in out of school sport – recording community sports, where youngsters train at least 2 hours per week and participate in competition at least once a month. Section 3 Officiating, refereeing and leading sporting activities. Bayside School – Supporting inter house, interclass or extra curricular competitions as a referee, scorer, timekeeper or recognised
terclass leagues and competitions held in official. lunchtimes and after school. Link schools – Supporting Playground games, International Fun & Team Athletics and H Supporting the organisation, officiating and or refereeing of middle school competitions or Middle/First school sports days. after school. When entrants reach years 10 and 11 they will continue to record the above but will also H Supporting community sports development. have the opportunity to take part in the following initiatives that will be credited towards the H Coaching, refereeing and or recognised officiating. overall competition. H Taking part in coach education initiatives in own time. Section 4 Supporting and recording link school sportIntroductions to the scheme are planned to ing initiatives, either during lunchtimes or after school. These could include the following: take place in January and all those interested will be given the opportunity to register on the (Leading, refereeing, and officiating). ‘Gibraltar Olympic Inspiration 2012’ and will be H Playground Games initiatives. given a log book where they will have to start H International Fun & Team Athletics the process of recording and proving that they H Bayside School after school sports clubs have been undertaking Sports Development H Middle school after school sports clubs activities as shown above both in school and H Bayside, Middle and or first school the community. sports days A Gibraltar Olympic Inspiration panel 2012 H GibSports Athletics sports day. will be formed in the very near future and this H Summer Sports & Leisure Programme. board will meet to agree the final credit system based on the criteria shown above and will Section 5 meet at least twice a year to check progress and Leadership & officiating education. Taking to award end of year credits to all registered in part and completing all elements of the British the initiative. Sport Trusts, Junior Sports Leadership Award. Taking part and completing certificated umpirIf you would like further information on ‘Gibraltar ing and officiating awards. Olympic Inspiration 2012’ or would like to be placed on the interest list please contact Graham Hawkins, Section 6 Head of PE at Bayside School on ghawkeye@gibtCommunity based voluntary work support- elecom.net ing junior activities and the organisation of events. The criteria for teachers will be based on the following: H ‘Gibraltar Olympic Inspiration 2012’ is availH Supporting extra curricular sporting activi- able due to the sponsorship and support reties. ceived from Bassadone Automotive Group and H Refereeing/officiating at inter house, in- the Bayside School Sports Department.
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GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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Jewellery
6/12/08 13:45:08
That Nail Place k6
Nail Extensions DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA DIGITAL CAMERA - MOBILE PHONES - GPS - PDA ACCESSORIES
No. 4 Watergardens - Block 1, PO Box 882 Tel/Fax: +350 200 78600
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Gel - Acrylic - Fibreglass
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Airbrushing Nail Art Body Jewellery
Unit F22A 1st Floor, ICC. Tel: 200 73211
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now also in Casemates
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~ Visit The Two Best Pubs In Town ~
Fresh Homemade Food from Breakfasts and Jackets to Entrecote Steak and Battered Cod
p7 193 Main Street 7
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Tel: 200 77444
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Gibraltar Taxi Association
Hearty Tunnellers’ Charcoal Grill Pasta, Breakfast (until midday), Sizzling Dishes, Light Bites, Salads, Baguettes, kid’s menu etc 8 Casemates Sq Tel: 200 74946
k6
open12 noon till late Unit 2 B The Tower Marina BayTel: 46668
Sacha’s
DUTY FREE WINES, SPIRITS & TOBACCO open 7 days 79 Main Street
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Artists’ Corner
Oil & Watercolours, hand-painted silks, decoupage, jewellery, prints & framing
Tel: 200 59700 Tel: 200 50020
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Kiosk No. 2 5 Waterport Wharf Tel: 200 47587www.gibraltararts.com
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GUIDED ROCK TOURS 19 Waterport Wharf Main Office Tel: 20070052 Fax: 20076986 Radio service: 20070027
THE TASTY BITE 59A Irish Town Tel: 200 78220 Fax: 200 74321
Quality Kitchen Ware Gibraltar’s Best Stocked Cook Shop k8
The Takeway with a difference. Homecooking . our speciality .
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46 Irish Town Tel: 200 75188 Fax: 200 72653
Open Monday to Saturday
the silver shop
for beautiful silver jewellery & gifts 3 locations in gibraltar casemates arcade • 275 main st horse barrack lane
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t7 7/12/08 10:54:34
Seabreeze Launderette
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Irish Town Antiques
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Marina Bay Washing, Drying, Ironing Free Collection and Delivery in Gibraltar Boat Valeting, House/Apartment Cleaning by Professional Trained Staff Tel: 200 47559 / 54023397
Accountants Durante Carboni Jardim..............w6 ESV Hassan & Co........................h7 GA Olivera Accountants.............m7 Business/Financial Services AI Couriers (DHL).......................k6 Barclays Bank.............................m7 GibraltarAssetManagement..........l8 Jyske Bank...................................k7 Masbro Insurance........................m7 Norwich & Peterborough.............q8 Phoenix Solutions.........................i7 Sovereign Trust...........................m7 STM Fidecs................................g10 Business Services Call Centre...................................v6 CTS..............................................c6 Global Business Centre................ r6 PointOne....................................d10 Waste Management......................z8 Business Supplies Beacon Press................................n9 Glasshouse..................................m8 Image Graphics...........................m7 Stitch Design................................p6
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Car Sales A. M. Capurro & Sons Ltd ......... n9 Computers & Cableing Image Graphics...........................m7 Newton Systems.........................m5 PC Clinic...................................... u6 Food & Drink 14 on the Quay............................. y9 Al Baraka..................................... x9 Barbary Ape................................ A5 All Sports Bar ............................. n5 Birdie Cafe Restaurant............... d10 The Boatyard................................ y9 Buddies Pasta Casa...................... p7 Cafe Rojo......................................l8 Café Solo...................................... g6 Casa Pepe..................................... z9 Fresh ........................................... g7 Garcia’s Take-Away..................... c3 Gauchos Restaurant......................f8 Get Joost.................................h6, r7 Get Stuffed................................... a5 House of Sacarello........................l8 Just-a-Nibble.................................i7 Just Desserts..................................i7 Khans......................................... c10
184 Main Street Tel: 200 72133 open: from 8am (10am on Sun) Lord Nelson.................................. h5 Mumtaz......................................... n5 El Patio.......................................... g8 Picadilly Gardens.......................... b6 Pickwicks Bar............................... q6 Pig and Whistle Bar.................... d10 Pusser’s Landing . .........................c8 Roy’s Cod Plaice........................... g6 Royal Calpe................................... p8 Saccone & Speed...........................?? Smiths Fish and Chips.................. v6 Solo Express................................. h7 Star Bar.......................................... j7 The Three Roses........................... q5 Time Out...................................... j12 Waterfront..................................... y9 Funeral Services Codali Funeral Services................ u6 Hair & Beauty Salons Classic Cuts.................................. m6 Extend-it Plus................................ n7 Joya’s Gents Hairdressers............. n7 Renaissance Beauty....................... j7 Roots..............................................s7 Short Cut........................................ i9 Sissi Salon..................................... h7
j7 • Sandwiches • Soups • Baguettes/ Ciabatta • Desserts/ • Take-away • Deliveries Homemade Italian Ice-cream • Eat in (outside!) • Business Lunches Mon - Fri 10-6, Sat 10 - 4, Closed Sundays • Parties/ 24 Main St Tel: 20043840 Fax: 42390 Kids Parties
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Jewellery Sales/Repair Antonio Jewellers...........................j7 Beau Jangels.................................. k7 Jewellery Repairs.......................... k6 Mathew’s Jewellery.......................i6 Leisure Complete Fitness............................r6 Dolphin Safari............................... a6 Rock Turf Accountants ���������������� h5 Legal Services Budhrani Lawyers......................... k7 Charles Gomez...............................t8 Hassans......................................... q9 Isolas............................................. e7 Triay & Triay................................ k8 Medical / Health Bell Pharmacy..............................m6 Claudia’s Clinic............................. 26 Dr. Crump, Steven, Chiropractor h7 Gib-Lab...................................... ....h7 Health Food Store......................... o7 Louis Pharmacy............................ h7 M. Clark Dentist.............................t5 McTimoney chiropractor.............. k7 John Miles - Chiropodist............... k9
Irish Town Tel: 200 70411
Smart Puls Centre......................... i9 Specialist Medical Clinic............. h7 Sport-On - Sports Therapy........... q7 Steiner Chiropractor..................... k9 Pet Services / Supplies Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic...........h7 Property Sales / Estate Agents Bray Property............................... b6 Norwich & Peterborough............. p7 Property World............................. h7 Solomon Levy . ........................... u6 Property Services Balban (electrician)...................... h5 Balloqui . ..................................... o6 LP Borge......................................w6 CIAP............................................ m8 Denville Designs........................... l6 Fashion House Interiors............... q5 Gibstainless.................................c10 Greenarc.......................................w7 Larbi upholstery........................... q6 Queensway Quay Laundrette....... x9 Seabreeze Laundry........................a5
GACHE & CO. LTD
Space Interiors.............................i6 Shopping — General Anuska........................................ 87 Arcade Keys.................................j7 Carol’s Books.............................. h7 Don House Arcade.......................j7 Flair............................................m6 Gallery Mosaic...........................m8 Ritual Tattoo................................ p8 Sheppard’s Chandlery................. d7 Terry’s........................................m8 The Studio....................................r8 Woodstock & Wembley............. j7 Shopping — Fashion/Clothing Esprit........................................... d7 Recruitment Atlas.............................................l6 RecruitGibraltar.......................... n9 Quad Consultancy........................t5 Transport / Marine Services Autoelectrical............................ c10 Shell Bunkering.......................... h8 Tarik Oil.................................... c10
GIBRALTAR BOOKSHOP
t7
ESTD. 1830 — 150 years experience
266 Main Street, Gibraltar. Tel: 200 75757
178 Main Street · Gibraltar · Telephone 200 48480
★★★ Opticians Giftware Jewellery
CANNON
H O T E Li
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9 Cannon Lane Tel: 20051711 Fax: 20051789
300 MAIN STREET GIBRALTAR TEL: 200 71894 FAX: 200 75554
For fiction and non-fiction yachting books, bargain books
Sports Trophies, Awards & Engravers
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k8
BAR NOW OPEN 8.30 - midnight Breakfast from 8.30-10am
THE PENGUIN BOOKSHOP
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p7 Licencees of Gibcon Ltd
7/12/08 10:54:50
health & medical directory
health& fitness Bell Pharmacy
CHEMISTS Bell Pharmacy 27 Bell Lane Tel: 200 77289 Fax: 200 42989 Louis’ Pharmacy Unit F12, International Commercial Centre, Casemates. Tel: 200 44797
McTimoney Chiropractor
Your Family Chemists
Gentle holistic treatment for all back or muscular problems and sports injuries Gillian Schirmer MA, DC, MMCA Clinic (Claudia’s), 1st Floor, 58 Main Street Tel: 200 41733 or after hours: 200 40026
Here to help you by answering all your pharmaceutical questions Consult us at 27 Bell Lane Tel: 200 77289 Fax: 200 42989
Chiropodists John W Miles BSc (Podiatry), MChS College Clinic, Regal House Tel: 200 77777
ChiropraCtors
STEINER CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS
Chiropractic Health Clinic
Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc DC
Dr Steven J. Crump B.Sc, DC, MCC Open: Mon - Fri 9.30am - 6.30pm
Member of the British Chiropractic Association
Back to better health with Chiropractic for headaches, dizziness, neck and lower back pain, sciatica, osteoathritis and sports injuries. College Clinic, Regal Hse. Tel: 200 77777
PASSANO OPTICIANS LTD British Registered Optometrists
Treatment of Back Pain, Neck Pain, Headaches, Limb Pain & Sports Injuries Tel: 200 44226
Dr Steven J. Crump BSc, DC, MCC ICC F5C 1st Flr, Casemates. Tel: 200 44226 Gillian Schirmer MA, DC, MMCA McTimoney Chiropractor, Clinic (Claudia’s), 1st Flr, 58 Main St Tel: 200 41733 After hours: 200 40026
ICC Suite F5C 1st Floor, Casemates, Gibraltar Member of British Chiropractic Association
38 Main St Tel: 200 76544 Fax: 200 76541 Email: passano@saphhirenet.gi
The Health Store
2nd Flr International Commercial Centre
Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc, DC Steiner Chiropractic Clinics, College Clinic, Regal Hse Tel: 200 77777
Weekend and Public Holiday Opening Hours (use Irish Town entrance)
DentAL SURGEONS
5 City Mill Lane, Gibraltar. Tel: 20073765 Suppliers of Glucosamine, Ginkgo Biloba and all vitamins. Body Building Products (Creatine etc) Open: 9am - 1pm & 3pm - 6pm
For all your Pharmaceutical needs
Louis’ Pharmacy Open: 9 - 7 Monday - Friday, Saturday 10 -1.30pm, Closed Sundays Unit F12, International Commercial Centre, Casemates. Tel: 200 44797
Primary Care Centre
Saturday: 9am - 11am, 5pm - 6pm Sunday & Public Holidays : 10am - 11am, 5pm - 6pm GP Clinics: 8am - 5.20pm
Daniel N. Borge BDS MSc MFDS RCS(Eng) Borge Dental/Medical Centre 7-9 Cornwall’s Lane Tel: 200 75790 Mike Clark BDS The Dental Practice, Baudelaire House, 15D-1 Town Range Tel/Fax: 200 52882
completefitness Sports Massage Therapy & Personal Training
Keith J Vinnicombe BDS (Wales) LDS RCS (Eng) MFGDP (UK)
Unit F5B ICC, 2a Main Street Tel/Fax: 200 40747 Emergency: 200 78756
Unit G3, Eliott Hotel Gibraltar Tel: 200 51113
ORTHODONTISTS
JOHN W. MILES BSc (Podiatry), M.Ch.S
Clinical Analysis Laboratory
STATE REGISTERED CHIROPODIST Treatment of all Foot Problems • Ingrown Toe-nails including Surgical Removal • Biomechanical Analysis for Insoles / Orthotics including Children • Wart (Verruca) Clinic • Diabetics
• Microbiology • Hematology • Biochemistry • Immunology confidential service
Full Report Printout • General Health Checks: • Glucose levels • Cholesterol levels • Anaemia screens • Blood groups F19 ICC Tel: 42330 Fax: 45521 gibraltar@gib-lab.com
GUARANTEED
You pre-pay at today’s prices, we provide your chosen service whenever it is eventually required and whatever it eventually costs Brochures on Pre-Paid Funeral Planning Available from:
Tel: 200 77777
College Clinic, Regal House, Queensway ALSO AVAILABLE FOR HOME VISITS
11 Convent Place Tel: 200 75747
Codali Funeral Services
Dr Hasse Lundgaard DDS Borge Dental & Medical Centre 7-9 Cornwall’s Lane Tel/Fax: 200 75790
Physicians Dr Norbert V Borge FRCP (London) 7-9 Cornwall’s Lane Tel/Fax: 200 75790
Health Stores The Health Store 5 City Mill Lane. Tel: 200 73765
Opticians / Optometrists Gache & Co Limited 266 Main Street. Tel: 200 75757 L. M. Passano Optometrist 38 Main Street. Tel: 200 76544
PERSONAL TRAINERS
Need somebody to talk to? days a week 6-10pm
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Simon Coldwell Complete Fitness Unit G3, Eliott Hotel Tel: 200 51113 Isabella Jimenez BSc (hons) 3/8 Turnbull’s Lane Tel: 54002226 email: jimenez.isabella@gmail.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • DECEMBER GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2008 2009
6/12/08 16:39:58
health&welfare
Does your smile give away your age?
learning to listen Counselling & Training Services Western Europe is offering courses in interpersonal relationships, counselling skills and counselling theory. A level two course in Counselling Skills is scheduled to start in January followed by a level three course in Counselling Skills after Easter. The organisation has been active in Gibraltar since 1995 and offers a wide range of courses locally to many professionals in the caring fields and also to those wishing to train as professional counsellors. An organisation, based in the United Kingdom it has facilitated specialist training to include bringing over professionals working in the fields of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Abuse, Relationships and Bereavement. Both courses which are validated in UK by the NCFE will be held over a series of Saturdays. The level two Certificate in Counselling
is the entry level course covering the basic skills required and the level three Certificate in Counselling Theory course focuses on the application of counselling skills backed up by theoretical concepts and this is the direct precursor to the full diploma course which leads on to the professionally recognised qualification of counsellor. A full prospectus detailing the range of training courses available for the year 2009 can be obtained from Mark Montovio, who is the Senior Tutor for Gibraltar and Spain. Contact by telephone on 200 40338 or email mount@gibraltar.gi n
First Aid Courses St John’s Ambulance will be holding the following courses in the New Year: 13-16th Jan First Aid at Work 21-22nd Jan First Aid at Work Requalification 27-30th Jan First Aid at Work 3-6th Feb First Aid at Work in Spanish 10-13th Feb First Aid at Work
Discoloured and crooked teeth show their age. We can help solve the problem using the latest in porcelain technology, with whiter shades to achieve that “Hollywood” smile.
Porcelain Veneers · Smile enhancement Whitening · Botox / fillers · Dental Implants
Porcelain Veneers pre-op
Porcelain Veneers post-op
We have a special interest in the management of nervous patients. Non-surgical correction of wrinkles and lip enhancement now available.
www.mikeclarkdental.com Baudelaire House 15D-1 Town Range, Gibraltar Tel/Fax: +350 200 52882
Appointed Persons course dates on request. Also, coming soon, First Aid for New Babies, a course for all new parents and parents to be.
Course Bookings call Kerrie 200 77390 or email training@stjohn.gi GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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health issues
Specialist Care
Now there is an easy way to see a private medical and surgical Specialists without having to get on a plane, or try to decipher a foreign language, or even so much as start up the car... The Specialist Medical Clinic in the International Commercial Centre (ICC) opened its doors at the end of 2008 and offers the very best of private care right here in Gibraltar. Through working at St Bernard’s Hospital Mr David Deardon MD, FRCS, Consultant General Surgeon, Dr Maria Bernathova MD, Consultant Radiologist specialising in Breast Imaging, Dr Waqar Haider MRCPI, Consultant General Physician with a special interest in chest medicine and Professor Gerd Bodner, Consultant Radiologist and specialist in musculoskeletal ultrasound, became aware that many patients were seeking specialist medical and surgical advice privately, but due to the relative lack of private specialist expertise in Gibraltar they have been forced to seek treatment in Spain, the UK and elsewhere. The consultants took the decision to address this shortfall by setting up the Specialist Medical Clinic. David Deardon, already well known locally for setting up the breast cancer and surgical oncology clinic at St Bernard’s whilst employed there, now works exclusively privately. The other three consultants work for the GHA at St Bernard’s as well as in their private practice which they do within the private practice rules set by the Gibraltar Health Authority. The core business of the Specialist Medical Clinic is the provision of consultant level specialist expertise care not primary (General Practice) care. “Our clinic offers something a bit different to the other established private practices in Gibraltar,” David explains, adding that “as well as
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providing consultant level advice and treatment within the clinic and at our associated hospitals in Spain, we are also able to access a huge network of top specialists in the UK and Europe. For example, we can arrange for patients to be seen elsewhere if they request or need this service, often simply by picking up the phone or sending an e-mail.” The clinic’s patients are now as as diverse as the services offered. There are many people in Gibraltar who are either not entitled to public health care or don’t want to use the public service for various reasons. Also many people who live on the Costa often want the reassurance of access to UK specialists, who speak English. Then there are those who have individual or corporate health insurance, who can benefit by
There is a small theatre at the clinic for procedures like vasectomies, pigmented skin lesion removal, carpal tunnel release, varicose vein sclerotherapy and other minor surgical procedures
the fact that the clinic has a direct billing system set up with many of the insurance companies. There is a small theatre at the clinic for procedures like vasectomies, pigmented skin lesion removal, carpal tunnel release, varicose vein sclerotherapy and other minor surgical procedures, so in many cases there is no need for the patient to enter a hospital like environment at all. However, though the environment is comfortable and unintimidating, safety is very important to the consultants who operate at the clinic. The Clinic is equipped with a resuscitation unit which means patients can feel as safe undergoing any procedure in the clinic , as they would in a full sized hospital theatre. The surgeons working at the clinic also have access to full operating and hospital facilities in a number of the top private hospitals in the Costa del Sol if they are required for more major operations requiring general anaesthesia. The clinic provides a number of medical services including diabetes management and lung function testing for the diagnosis of asthma, smoking related and other chronic lung diseases. We also offer testing for sleep disordered breathing (Sleep Apnoea) as well as Electro Cardiograms, 24 hours ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, 24 hour ambulatory ECG monitoring (cardiac holter) for cardiac rhythm abnormalities. It also provides a travel vac-
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
6/12/08 16:35:51
health issues cination service, a discreet testing service with counseling, a male sterilization service as well as well man and well woman packages. In fact, one of the things they offer is echocardiograms or heart ultrasounds through Dr Bernt Reisbeck (a US boards accredited cardiologist and one of the visiting clinicians who has regular sessions at the clinic). This service is not provided locally by any other facility in Gibraltar. Neither is the fantastic 3 and 4D (the fourth dimension is video) Philips IU22 ultrasound operated by Professor Bodner. This ultrasound is the most advanced machine in Gibraltar or the Costa del Sol and gives a crystal clear image of an unborn baby, its heart beating, sucking its thumb, flexing, wiggling and kicking — which is a great way to enhance the bonding process between parents and child — and the video can even be supplied on CD as a keepsake. Dr Bernathova and Mr Deardon (the clinical co- founders of the GHA’s breast service) have also been able to set up a private rapid access breast screening and breast disease clinic (where patients can normally be seen within 48 hours of finding a breast lump). In addition they offer cancer (bowel, breast, prostate and testicle) and cardiovascular screening services which can save lives in many cases. For example the survival rate for a ruptured abdominal aneurysm (swelling on the main abdominal artery) is less than 10% but abdominal screening can detect the aneurysm before it is too large, giving the doctors time to monitor the condition and plan elective repair and thus providing the patient a good prognosis. Some diseases have a high incidence rate in Gibraltar possibly due to the prevailing culture of
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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smoking and especially of being overweight. The clinic offers an obesity service through a metabolic physician who in collaboration with Mr Deardon and visiting colleagues is able to offer the three main surgical options — bands, balloons and bypass — for patients with serious weight problems. The clinic is also now able to offer finance packages in collaboration with the NatWest bank to fund these and other high cost cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, abdominoplasty and liposuction. As well as the four founding consultants there is also a range of visiting specialists in disciplines such as cosmetic surgery, hand surgery, neurology, cancer treatment, orthopaedics, eye surgery, paediatrics (including childhood diabetes), ENT surgery, sports medicine, cardiology, and bladder / prostate (urological) surgery. Some of these specialists come from the UK whilst others are based in Gibraltar or on the Costa del Sol. All of the specialists have been trained in European countries, and speak fluent English.
The clinic is also now able to offer finance packages in collaboration with the NatWest bank to fund these and other high cost cosmetic procedures
The big advantage of visiting the Specialist Medical Clinic, apart from access to other private practice specialists, is the speed of being seen and the lack of pressure when seen. “We have a fully confidential one-to-one consultations with our patients,” Waqar explains. “And each patient gets quality time during the 30 minute appointment session.” The clinic has a state of the art electronic booking system for recording and reporting cases with an electronic image archive system which can be accessed when needed. “We’d like to thank Rob Parker of Beacon Information Solutions [see November issue] for setting up a tremendously good IT system, which ensures that patient records are immediately available when the patient attends the clinic” David adds. Whilst patients can self refer into the clinic, those who are referred to the consultants by their GPs will, in most cases, have their reports electronically sent straight back to the GP within 24 hours. The clinic’s fully backed up record system also addresses the issue of confidentiality which is easier to control in a discreet private practice than a public health care facility, especially in a small place like Gibraltar where everyone knows everyone. n The Specialist Medical Clinic can be found on the 1st floor of the International Commercial Centre (unit F7), Casemates Square, Gibraltar. The clinic is open from 10am until 6pm on weekdays and from 10am until midday on Saturdays. Tel: + 350 200 49999 Fax: +350 200 49999 email: info@smg.gi for an appointment or visit www.smg.gi for further information on the services offered.
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health issues
messing
with measles One of the most infectious diseases on the planet, the measles virus can cause blindness, deafness, brain damage and death. Jon Lewes assesses why the threat to humans and other species exists in Gibraltar. Science Editor at The Guardian newspaper, Robin McKie, reported in 2000 on a paper published in Science. “In the misty highlands of Rwanda,” wrote McKie, “scientists noted a disturbing outbreak of illness among mountain gorillas. First the animals began coughing and sneezing. Then the animals became sluggish. Finally they wandered into the forest to die. The cause of this epidemic was a mystery until one researcher collected blood and tissue samples and studied them. His discovery was startling: Rwanda’s gorillas appeared to be succumbing to measles, a disease previously only found in humans. Either researchers, or — more probably — tourists, who spend thousands of dollars on trips to pose beside gorillas, were infecting the animals”. Researchers have re-appraised the disease danger that humans pose to primates and many now believe that our ailments are a far more common threat to gorillas, chimps and other apes than previously realized. The impact of diseases transmitted by humans to animal populations continues to be of concern to scientists — Primatologist Professor Robin Dunbar of Liverpool University points out, “There is no doubt that Aids is a devastating illness that has already killed millions. However, it does not threaten Homo sapiens with extinction. By contrast, illnesses like flu, pneumonia and measles, which we pass on to chimps, gorillas and other apes, threaten to tip some populations into oblivion”. The possible solution, administering vaccines, is equally controversial as such interventions represent the first step onto a slippery slope, say many scientists, for “apes would
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be left increasingly dependent on humans for protection, even if the practical difficulties of administering the vaccine are solved. They will, in effect, no longer be wild animals”. By contrast, human beings are easy to vaccinate but many are unwilling to be vaccinated for fear that the vaccine itself will cause problems. To achieve the goal of eliminating measles from Europe the World Heath Organisation recommends that 90% of a population should be vaccinated against the viruses that are potentially lethal to human beings — measles is one of those viruses. Nevertheless, Japan, for example, revised its vaccination law in 1994 because of allegations that vaccinations for measles, mumps, and rubella between 1989 and 1993 were the cause of cases of meningitis in children. Now, under the revised law, childhood vaccinations against measles are recommended but not
In New York City, for example, a measles outbreak in July 2001 was traced to a group of Japanese students who were visiting a university
mandatory resulting in only 80% of the population being vaccinated — and an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 cases of measles occur each year in Japan, killing 50 to 100 people. Not only does Japan now have a high incidence of measles, but unvaccinated Japanese travellers have been suspected of causing outbreaks elsewhere. In New York City, for example, a measles outbreak in July 2001 was traced to a group of Japanese students who were visiting a university. In Europe, at present, in 2008, epidemics have been reported in Austria, Switzerland and Italy. In USA, by mid-2008 a total of 127 cases were reported in 15 states making it the largest outbreak since the 138 cases reported in 1997. Low vaccination rates are held to be the cause of the disease taking hold again, with most of the US cases, state the US Health Authorities, being acquired outside the US by unvaccinated individuals. In Germany, which has experienced many measles outbreaks, vaccination coverage remains low with coverage levels of only 22% at age 15 months, 77% at 24 months, and 87% at 36 months. Even upon school entry, fewer than 90% of children in Germany receive the first dose of the vaccine. In the United Kingdom the disease is considered to be endemic, and a current outbreak with more than 1,000 cases reported has been declared to be of epidemic proportions. Gibraltar has been affected by an outbreak since summer of 2008, with some 300 cases reported to date, in which, according to the health director, Dr. Vijay Kumar, “Most cases
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health issues are mild and the patients’ age range from four months to 58 years but some infected individuals, including infants, have needed intensive hospital care”. These figures, since the cases are mostly children, equate to some 5% of Gibraltar’s population of 6,000 children. There were no cases at all in the previous 10 years, confirms the health director. Children in Gibraltar are offered vaccination against measles as part of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), vaccine, which is given to them between 12 and 15 months of age, with a booster dose before they start school. Some families have held their children back from the vaccine, expressing concern about possible risks from the combined vaccination after several research reports suggested links between the vaccine and either autism or Crohn’s disease. The Gibraltar health authorities state that “The overwhelming body of evidence doesn’t support these worries and most experts are emphatic that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, preventing illnesses whose real potential to cause damage most parents have lost sight of ”. The measles virus is “potentially lethal” but also can cause blindness, deafness and brain damage. Although there are many fewer cases among vaccinated children than among unvaccinated children, it has become clear that the children who receive only one dose are not always protected from the disease, leading to the recommendation of the second dose for children between five and 19 years of age to ensure protection.
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The history of measles around the world changed dramatically from 1963 when the licensed vaccine became available and the number of measles cases dropped by 99% in Europe and the US. Nevertheless, the disease still has a hold. References to measles can be found as far back as the 7th century A.D, but in modern times, to date, 21 strains of the measles virus have been identified, which have killed about 200 million people worldwide in the last 150 years, a rate halted only by vaccination. Epidemic cycles occurred every two to three years, with more than half the population catching measles by the time they were six years old, and 90% had the dis-
The history of measles around the world changed dramatically from 1963 when the licensed vaccine became available and the number of measles cases dropped by 99% in Europe and the US
ease by the time they were 15 years old. Now, globally, measles deaths are down 60 percent, from an estimated 873,000 deaths in 1999 to 345,000 in 2005. Nevertheless, cases in England and Wales, more than 1,000 in late 2008, are estimated to reach a possible 100,000, the highest in 13 years. In UK, the Health Protection Agency warned in June 2008, that the number of unvaccinated children was “now large enough to sustain the continuous spread of the potentially lethal virus in the community”. The HPA blamed a failure by parents over the past 10 years to give their children the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The message is emphasised by the Gibraltar health authorities and they endorse the HPA which states that “due to almost 10 years of sub-optimal MMR vaccination coverage across the UK, the number of children susceptible to measles is now sufficient to support the continuous spread of measles. Health services should exploit all possible opportunities to offer MMR vaccine to children of any age who have not received two doses. Greater awareness of the increasing measles incidence by health professionals and the public is essential to control the spread of infection.” As to steps to prevent contagion of gorillas, chimps and apes, if further epidemics of measles occur in the human population of Gibraltar a further statement may be required from the authorities to explain how they will prevent an outbreak of measles in the local Macaque community. n
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Book on sale at Gibraltar Book Shops GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAziNE • JANUARY 2009
6/12/08 16:00:16
The gibtelecom chess festival 2009
Attracting grand masters from across the globe, the Gibtelecom Chess Festival has grown from strength to strength since it started nine years ago, and this year looks set to be no different. The Russian champion, Peter Svidler joins this year ’s line-up having recently won his fifth tournament in a dramatic play-off. Interesting when you remember the defending champion, Hikaru Nakamura beat Bu Xiangzhi in an incredible tie-break battle last year to win the 2008 tournament. Since then Bu has gone on to beat both Karpov and Ivanchuk in the Dap D’Adge Knock-Out in France, the most prestigious rapid-play event held in France this last year. Could we be in for a show-down between the two this month? All that depends on the other players in the tournament who will also be battling for the £15,000 top prize. But the 2009 tournament has much more lined up too. With the Women’s awards carrying a £6,000 first prize which will be fought
over by the likes of Pia Cramling (semi-finalist in the world championships), Antoaneta Stefanova or Viktorija Cmilyte to name a few. The Festival starts on 27th January at the Caleta Hotel with the Masters tournament which is open to all-comers. Challengers A starts on the same day along with Amateur A. Challengers and Amateur B groups will start play on 1st February with the main events wrapping up on 5th February followed by the Junior Congress on 7th and 8th February. There are plenty of extra special events taking place during the two weeks too, including chess master classes, poker master classes and team blitz tournaments meaning there are lots of things that players and spectators can get involved in. Participation is open to members of national chess federations and
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other participants who are rated by FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs), the international governing body of the game, and registration must be in by January 26th. Spectators are welcome at no charge and games will be commentated on by Grand Master Stuart Conquest. The master classes are also open to the public at no charge too, so there’s a good opportunity for us amateurs to pick up some tips from some of the top players in the world. With an online site which is extremely comprehensive, including regular updates on registering participants and during the tournaments you’ll be able to follow Stuart Conquest’s commentary on games in progress. n You can find out more about the event at the website www.gibraltarchesscongress.com
a brief history of chess Most of us have tackled a chess board at some stage of our lives and know it’s all down to strategy and thinking ahead. Organised and competitive chess started as far back as the 16th century. Sometimes known as Western Chess or International Chess, the modern game has developed from many other variants of the game which emerged in Europe in the 15th century. This in turn had developed from earlier games which originated in India and Persia. Today the game is a recognised sport by the International Olympic Committee, although it has never been a part of the Olympic Games it does have its own Olympics held every two years as a team event. The first modern tournament was held in London in 1851. Interestingly, the Persian name for the game in the 6th century, shatranj was taken up by the muslim world after the Islamic conquest of Persia and from there the name developed into the Spanish name, Ajedrez. n
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personality
by Mike Brufal
Reggie Norton and Archbishop Dom Helder Camara — the most famous Latin American liberation theologian
Reggie Norton:
a Man of Many Parts
Reggie Norton, 75, is a man of many parts: Old Etonian, barrister, Town Clerk of Gibraltar for almost a decade, Oxfam field director and trustee, passionate supporter of anti-slavery, campaigner on climate change, ardent Gibraltarian lobbyist and member of his parish council. Reggie’s great grandfather, John Norton, an Englishman and Anglican, joined the colonial service and was appointed Chief Clerk at the Government Secretariat. One of John’s sons, Cavendish, was in charge at the City Council, another son (Reggie’s grandfather) was also in government service and finished his career as Chief Revenue Inspector. Reggie’s father was Assistant Colonial Secretary and adviser to seven governors on relations with Spain. During the 2nd world war the family was evacuated to Rabat and then Madeira where Reggie learned fluent Portuguese. Soon after returning to Gibraltar he was sent to board at Summerfields preparatory school, Oxford and passed into Eton College at the age of 12. He was the first Gibraltarian to be sent to Eton. After leaving Eton he did his six month national service with the Gibraltar Defence Force and was in intake No 14 which included Louis Triay, Peter Isola and Charlie Piccone. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet and become friends with a wide selection of Gibraltarians.
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Reggie went up to Oxford University in 1952 with Charlie Piccone (Charlie to Trinity College, Reggie to Christ Church). Also up at Oxford was Louis Andlaw who tried to persuade him to box as he felt that Reggie, a Eton middleweight champion, had a good chance of gaining a ‘blue’. Reggie turned down the invitation and instead played rugby for fun as a wing three quarter for his College team. One regret was that he was there when
A call was received from Brigadier Sam Chambers advising he was about to call out the troops to restore order. Sir Joshua told him to do no such thing
Roger Bannister broke the four minute mile but knew nothing of it until he read it in the newspaper. He read jurisprudence and ate the requisite number of dinners at Lincoln’s Inn to be called to the Bar and then to the Bar in Gibraltar. Together with Charlie Piccone and James Fraser-Luckie (who although living in Jerez was born in Gibraltar as his father wished him to be a British rather than a Spanish citizen — whilst waiting for the birth, a house in Irish Town was rented from the Russo family) he formed the Spanish Society of Oxford University. James played the guitar and so at the inauguration meeting the three Gibraltarians sang the popular Spanish songs of the day. Arriving back on the Rock to begin his legal career, he was given a room in his cousin (his mother was a Stagnetto) Guy Stagnetto’s chambers. But his heart was not in the law and after five years working as a lawyer he decided he was not cut out to be a barrister and looked for a career in another discipline. He heard about a position in the City Coun-
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personality cil as assistant town clerk which would lead to succeeding John Malin when he retired as Town Clerk. The job was successfully applied for. Reggie recalls John Malin was a very clever person and a delight to work with and a man who did not spare himself in teaching Norton the minutiae of being a Town Clerk. In ten months he was appointed acting Town Clerk. This was at the time when there was both a Legislative Council and a City Council — the former responsible for housing, medical services etc, the latter public health, highways, public utilities, parks and gardens, valuation department and markets etc. His staff at the City Council were outstandingly capable, totally committed, very conscientious and with a desire to serve the public in the best possible manner. He really enjoyed this job and was there for almost a decade. Towards the end of his time as Town Clerk the expected merger between the Government Secretariat and the City Council took place. A bonus for the staff at City Hall was that the merger meant they were able to advance their careers by applying for jobs in government departments. Reggie spent one year as Development and Planning Secretary but he accepted the position with the proviso if he did not enjoy it then he could retire on a partial pension. This was agreed and despite the chance of promotion to either Attorney General or Financial Secretary he left in 1971. However during the last three months he was able to bring to fruition the Victoria Stadium, a project he had been advocating for many years at the City Council as he felt something had to be done to improve civilian sporting facilities on the Rock. Another project which gave him great satisfaction was the building of the Haven which came into its own with the amalgamation. Another successful project, together with the Director of Tourism Rodney Scrase, was the beautification work on the beaches, carried out by the Public Works Department of the City Council. Norton was a keen athlete and together with Ernest Andlaw, Charlie Flower and Pepe Fabre established the Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association. In 1958, as non playing captain, he took the first Gibraltar team to take part in the Empire Games at Cardiff. He has vivid memories of the infamous Dove riots. Every afternoon he would meet
with Sir Joshua Hassan to discuss City Council matters. The afternoon of the riot was no different except that midway through a telephone call advised that a demonstration aimed against the perceived pro-Spanish feelings of those who had signed a letter published in the Gibraltar Chronicle was taking place and the rioters were moving towards the City Hall. A call was received from Brigadier Sam Chambers advising he was about to call out the troops to restore order. Sir Joshua told him to do no such thing as, believe it or not, the riot was pro-British and anti-Spanish. He said he would deal with it. Reggie remembers the Mayor showed considerable courage as they went out into the square to calm the crowd, except for a splinter group which broke away to march down Main Street to inflict damage to the property of those who had signed the letter. Reggie looked into the eyes of the rioters standing in the front row and was horrified by what he saw. There were Gibraltarians who were in a kind of trance and were not capable of understanding anything said to them. The City Council was well prepared for the day when the Franco Government withdrew the labour force and closed the frontier. The Public Works personnel worked so well that there was no disruption to the work in hand. The missing workforce was soon replaced by Moroccan labour. Reggie, in his spare time, before leaving Gibraltar in 1971, had become closely involved with the inalienable right of the Gibraltarian to self determination and the creation of a Gibraltarian identity. In 1965 he was so incensed by a published article by Hugh Kay that together with Willie Chiappe, Bernard Linares and others they clubbed together to invite him out to the Rock to see the situation for himself. This visit was a huge success; Hugh was converted to the Gibraltarian cause and wrote a series of articles
His aim was to get arrested by lying on the road but he was picked up twice by the police and thrown onto the pavement. “It was not easy to get arrested,” he said
published in the British press. This encouraged them to invite out the Labour MP, Brian Walden, on a fact finding mission which was equally productive. Letters were written to all Conservative MPs who were Old Etonians to encourage them to champion the rights of the Gibraltarians. He was most impressed by Nigel Fisher’s reply which, all those decades ago, said the Gibraltar problem eventually would be resolved within the context of Europe. Norton was the first Gibraltarian to take the fight to General Franco and in 1964 wrote an open letter to General Franco, published in the Gibraltar Post. This was rewarded by immediate inclusion on the infamous persona non grata list. Gerald Pawle asked him for help in writing a history of Gibraltar. Alas the book was never written but he left Reggie all his notes and copious files. These have been handed to the Gibraltar museum on the understanding that they are available for research. On 1st October 1969 he had a letter published in the Times reminding readers the 1969 Referendum had not given the United Kingdom Government carte blanche to dispose even partially of her sovereignty over the Rock. Although Gibraltarians at present did not aspire to independence, that right existed in spite of the Treaty of Utrecht. The premise was that Gibraltar belongs to the Gibraltarians. Previously a longer letter had been published in the Gibraltar Chronicle and its editor, Jon Searle, maintains this was the first time such a thought had been expressed publicly. In 1971 Reggie joined Oxfam as Field Secretary for Latin America. His base was in Oxford and involved servicing the two Latin American Field Directors, one in Brazil, the other covering the Andean countries. He was also the Secretary of the Oxfam field committee for Latin America. In 1972 he was sent out to Nicaragua to lead the Oxfam relief programme. In 1975 he was appointed Field Director for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. He lived in Barbados for six months but soon moved to Guatamala. There was a large earthquake during 1976 and in addition to his normal job he also led the Oxfam relief programme. Two of his most vivid memories are of meeting Archbishop Romero in El Salvador and Dom Helder Camara in Brazil. Oxfam America seconded him to the Wash-
Irish Town Antiques Antiques & Collectables Irish Town Gibraltar Tel: 200 70411
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personality ington Office on Latin America (WOLA) for one year but he stayed there for six years. In May 1980 he married Emily and their two children, Tommy and Natalia, were born in the United States. They enjoy British and American nationality and for good measure, together with their mother, are registered Gibraltarians. WOLA was founded in 1974 and its aim was to persuade the United States Congress to arrive at policies towards Latin America based on the reality of the situation on the ground. His specific task was to cover Nicaragua and Guatemala. In 1986 the family returned to Oxford primarily to give their children an English education. Reggie retired from paid employment in order to concentrate on the luxury of doing what he wanted to do. He was appointed an Associate Fellow of the Transnational Institute of Amsterdam (the European branch of the Institute for Policy Studies of Washington DC) and organised a conference on Peace and Development in Central America at St. Catherine’s College, Oxford. Reggie had joined Anti-Slavery International in 1975 and was made a trustee in 1989 and became Chair of the Council of Trustees for almost a decade. He stepped down at the age of 70. In 2000, after reading an article on the damaging effects of climate change he became an ardent supporter of the need for everyone to take action to limit these effects. Now he is a member of the Executive Committee of
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Operation Noah which is the climate change campaign associated with the Churches Together in Great Britain and Ireland and gives lectures on this subject. As if that is not enough he is the Honorary
Reggie had joined AntiSlavery International in 1975 and was made a trustee in 1989 and became Chair of the Council of Trustees for almost a decade
Treasurer of the British Society for the Turin Shroud. This love for the Shroud started many decades ago when he and Father Charles Caruana (as he was then) presented a programme on the Shroud on GBC television. Norton is a member of his Parish Pastoral Council. During the ’90s he formed the Association of Artists for Guatemala and has published three books — Guatemala; Burden of Paradise, Guatemala; the Right to Dream, Guatemala; Thinking about the Unthinkable. Reggie also commissioned a biography of Pope Benedict XV, The Unknown Pope, Benedict XV – the Pope of Peace which was published in hardback and paperback. On 7th August 2000 after being interviewed by BBC Breakfast TV and BBC 4 he joined a demonstration in Whitehall outside Downing Street, organised by Voices in the Wilderness UK, drawing attention to the 10th anniversary of the United Nations sanctions on Iraq which he considered illegal and immoral. His aim was to get arrested by lying on the road but he was picked up twice by the police and thrown onto the pavement. “It was not easy to get arrested,” he said. Reggie has enjoyed a fruitful, satisfying and productive life which shows no signs of slowing down. He intends mainly to carry on with the campaign to persuade individuals and governments to take action to reduce climate change but also to maintain a watching brief over Gibraltar’s political future. Nigel Fisher’s prophetic words appear to have come true but in politics no one can predict what lies around the corner. n
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pets&accessories Protect Your Dog Against Fatal Summer Diseases Heartworm, Leishmaniosis, Tickborne Diseases Phone Gibraltar Veterinary Clinic for details 200 77334 Emergency: 8977
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Gibraltar Connections by Reg Reynolds 60 riveting true stories of people and events connected to the world’s most famous Rock. Available at book shops and newsagents throughout Gibraltar GIBRALTAR 2008 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAZINE • • DECEMBER JANUARY 2009
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by Reg Reynolds
German Agent:
Saved by his Old School Tie Adam von Trott was on a worthy mission but it nearly came a cropper off Gibraltar. World War II was in its earliest stages and von Trott, a high-placed employee in the German foreign office, was off to the United States to enlist the American’s support in the fight against his own country. Von Trott had been educated at Oxford and had lived for a time in the USA and was virulently anti-Nazi and anti-Hitler. It was October, 1939 and the War was a little more than a month old when von Trott, a specialist in Oriental subjects, received an invitation to attend a conference at the Institute of Pacific Relations at Virginia Beach in the then neutral United States. The German Foreign Office gave him permission to travel and he caught the last ship out of Genoa. From the outbreak of hostilities the Royal Navy had been intercepting shipping travelling through the Strait of Gibraltar and subjecting crew, passengers and cargo to thorough examination. If von Trott was found out he could be arrested and interred for the remainder of the war. But his old school tie and good old English class distinction saved the day. When von Trott’s ship was stopped off Gibraltar, and he was interviewed by the officer in charge of the boarding party, he said he was English and travelling to America on business but unfortunately had misplaced his documents. The captain of the ship was in on the cover-up and he backed up von Trott’s story. Von Trott spoke perfect unaccented English and to further authenticate his Britishness he wore his Balliol College tie, well aware that this would impress an officer of the Royal Navy. Safely in America von Trott met a number of distinguished representatives of the academic and business worlds from Canada and the United States. In public he maintained a ‘correct’ demeanor and did not openly criticize the Nazi regime. In private he urged the Americans and
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Von Trott spoke perfect unaccented English and to further authenticate his Britishness he wore his Balliol College tie, well aware that this would impress a Royal Navy officer
Canadians to support the anti-Hitler movement in Germany. Von Trott’s proposals reached the British embassy in Washington, the US Department of State and External Affairs in Ottawa but in all three places they were regarded with suspicion. Even President Roosevelt received a memorandum penned by von Trott which is said to have urged “…to ensure that the idea of a war of annihilation did not drive all those into the arms of National Socialism who had begun to come together to overthrow Hitler”. Von Trott was born in Potsdam, August 9th, 1909, the son of a Prussian civil servant. In 1931 he won a Rhodes scholarship and went to study at Balliol College, Oxford. Following his studies he lived for a time in the U.S. and in 1937 was posted to China. In 1939 he visited London three times and lobbied Lord Halifax and Lord Lothian to pressure the British Government to abandon appeasement. Those unsuccessful ventures were followed by the trip to America. Friends begged von Trott not to return to Germany but he was determined to do what he could to stop the madness of Hitler and his henchmen. In 1940 he joined the Nazi Party in order to gain access to party information. At the same time he served as advisor to a clandestine group of intellectuals called the Kreisau (The Circle) plotting to overthrow of the Nazis. During the war he sent letters via Portugal to British Intelligence at Gibraltar explaining that there was strong support inside Germany for the overthrow of Hitler and a declaration of peace. We now know that those letters were intercepted by the traitor Kim Philby and not forwarded to London. Working on behalf of Stalin Philby wanted to ensure that Germany did not sign a separate peace with the Western Allies. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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Determined to fight on Von Trott took part in Claus von Stauffenberg’s attempt to assassinate Hitler on 20th July, 1944. Hitler survived the bomb blast and Stauffenberg and all of the conspirators, including von Trott, were rounded up. Von Trott was placed on trial, found guilty, sentenced to death and hanged on 26th August. He is one of only five Germans honoured on the War Memorial at Balliol College. n * Author’s note: In November I wrote about War Correspondent Sheila Grant Duff and her experiences in the Spanish Civil War. While doing the research I learned that she befriended Adam von Trott. The letters they wrote to each other between 1932 and 1939 have been preserved in the book A Noble Combat.
Gold Coins from Barclays Wealth This year Barclays Wealth, regular sponsors of the Convent Christmas Fair, added another festive treat to the occasion by giving away chocolate money to all the children present at the carol singing. It marked a lovely end to a happy and successful day.
Calpe Conference 2009 2009 will be the 150th anniversary of the publication of the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin and it will also mark his 200th Birthday. Therefore, coinciding with this event, next year’s Calpe Conference will focus on ‘Human Evolution - 150 years after Darwin’. It will be held from 16th to 20th September 2009, promising to be a very special event with leading world speakers on show. There will also be a programme of short communications by other speakers, in addition to the conference’s main speakers. Registration for this conference is now open through the Gibraltar Museum Tel: 200 74289.
BLINDS & BLIND SYSTEMS
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Anacyclus radiatus
Wild Flowers of Gibraltar text and photos by Leslie Linares ARPS
&daisies
dandelions
The scientific name for the Daisy and Dandelion family of plants is compositae. This refers to the fact that what we see as a single flower is actually a composite of many small, tightly packed, stalkless flowers or florets growing at the end of the flowering stem where it widens to form a kind of platform called the receptacle. Anthemis arvensis. This is not a common species on the Rock, and is usually found as a weed in cultivated areas around town, but there is a large stand of them on Windmill Hill Flats. The white ray florets are from 2 to 10 mm long, and the yellow disc florets about 3 mm long. It is a hairy, aromatic annual, with stems from 10 to 40 cm tall. A good example of those plants which only have ray florets is the hairy hawkbit, Leontodon saxatilis subsp. rothii. This is a very common species which can be found Hairy Hawkbit
There are two kinds of florets: disc florets which are small, more or less cylindrical and which end in five short teeth, and ray florets in which the tube of the floret is extended into a conspicuous strap. Some species only have ray florets, such as the dandelion. Others have both types, in which case the disc florets form the centre of the flower head and the ray florets are arranged around the edge giving a daisy-like flower. One such typical example of the latter type is the corn chamomile,
throughout the Rock: from the Upper Rock to Europa Point, to the East Side, and even in urban areas. The solitary yellow flower heads are 2 to 3 cm across, with stems up to 30cm long. The leaves form a basal rosette, and are quite rough-hairy. The Plymouth thistle, Carduus pycnocephalus, is an erect, spiny annual. The stems can be over 1m tall, but are usually less. The reddish-purple flower heads are 1.5 to 2 cm long, and can be solitary or in clusters of 2 to 4. The flower heads are surrounded by rows of spiny-tipped bracts. It is fairly common and widespread in Gibraltar, growing on rough waste ground and along waysides. The bright yellow flowers of Anacyclus radiatus are very common and widespread in Gibraltar, though it is rare on the Upper Rock.
It is mainly found all around the lower parts of the Rock, in areas close to the coast. It is an annual, with reddish stems up to 60 cm tall which are branched at the top. Leaves and stems are densely hairy. The flower heads range from 2 to 6 cm across. The Maltese star thistle, Centaurea melitensis, flowers in late spring. The erect stems can be up to 80 cm tall. The yellow flower heads are about 1 cm across, and are either solitary or in groups of 2 to 4. The flower heads are surrounded by rows of spiny bracts. It is quite common and widespread on the Upper Rock, where it grows on dry, stony ground, and along waysides. Another very common and widespread species is the spiny daisy, Pallenis spinosa. The stems can be up to 80 cm tall, and are finely hairy, as are the leaves. The flower heads
The Maltese star thistle, Centaurea melitensis, flowers in late spring. The erect stems can be up to 80 cm tall 70 70
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natural history
Groundsel
are from 2 to 3 cm across. The ray florets are small, shorter than the spreading bracts that surround the flower heads. These bracts are from 1 to 3 cm long, and have sharp, spiny tips. These flowers are very common along waysides of the Upper Rock. The groundsel, Senecio vulgaris, is a very common and well-known species. It grows in all habitats on the Rock, and is a species that can be found all over Europe. It has also spread as a weed throughout many of the temperate regions of the world. The flower heads are around
1 cm long and only have disc florets. The flowers are arranged in more or less dense clusters. The milk or holy thistle, Silybum marianum, is a rare species on the Rock. It grows on disturbed and waste ground, and along waysides. The stems can be up to 1.5m tall. The leaves are dark green, netted and veined in white, and are quite distinctive. The reddish-purple flower heads are solitary, and 5 to 6 cm across. The heads are surrounded by many rows of stiff, sharp-pointed, spreading or curving bracts, 2 to 5 cm long. n
The milk or holy thistle is a rare species on the Rock. It grows on disturbed and waste ground, and along waysides
Plymouth Thistle
Spiny Daisy
Milk Thistle
shore medick
Maltese Star Thistle
southern birdsfoot trefoil Corn Chamomile
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1st FLOOR 1
3
2
Stairs to Ground Floor
onthesquare
Gibraltar Museum (special exhibition rooms)
4
5
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7
8
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Traditional Pub Serving Traditional Pub Fare, Bass Beers, Wines & Spirits
• Pizza • Pasta • Salads • Fresh Juices • Cappuccino • Ice Creams
NOW OFFERING DAILY SPECIALS Grand Casemates Sq Tel: 20044449
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Casemates Gates
5th Jan Tradional 3 Kings Cavalcade Parade Casemates along Main Street-starting from Casemates Square Time: 7.00 pm
23 24 25
Square 29
Tourist Office 15th Jan
The Gibraltar Philharmonic Society Berlin Philharmonic Solist Series
(See pages 87-90 for restaurant & bar information)
Q: From where does the name come?
The word Casemates, meaning a bomb proof compartment, usually of masonry, to house a magazine or troop quarters, comes from the Italian ‘Casamatta’ from the Latin ‘Casa’ (house) and ‘Matto’ (mad) originating from the Latin ‘Mattus’ (drunk)!
33 Visit us and step back in history
Line Wall Road
32 International Commercial Centre
P
TAXIS
(shops, offices, health centre)
30
Main Street
➨
Full menu served inside or on our terrace including British Fish & Chips, Jackets, Salads, Burritos, Homemade Pizzas, our special Fresh Local Mussels and much more. Visit us and buy yourself a souvenir, T-shirts, beer glasses, lighters etc Live music every evening, join our Jam Sessions on Wednesday or Sunday. GLMS Music Venue of the Year. Official Home to Gibraltar Rugby Club Free WiFi
27 28
PS
Fruit & Veg, Fish & Meat
17 18 19
14
SHO
Public Market
15 16
20 21 22
Casemates Tunnel
11
Casemates Arcade
Ground FLOOR
Main Entrance / Stairs
Casemates Square Tel: 200 72987
1-3. Arts & Crafts Galleries 11. Cafe Solo 12. All’s Well 14. The Tunnel 19. The Silver Shop 26. El Cottage 27. Lord Nelson Bar Brasserie 28. El Patio Restaurant 29. Rock Turf Accountants 30. Baby Love (in ICC) 32. Solo Express
10 Casemates www.lordnelson.gi Tel: 200 50009
RESTAURANTE
El Patio
Basque & Continental Cuisine Speciality Fish
now also in Casemates
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11 Casemates Square Tel: 200 70822
Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 5.30pm Saturday 10am - 3pm Sunday 10am - 1pm Watergate House, Casemates Square Tel/Fax: 200 74982 Email: tourism@gibraltar.gi Website: www.gibraltar.gov.uk
GIBRALTAR GIBRALTARMAGAZINE MAGAZINE••JANUARY JANUARY2009 2009
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WHAT’S ON Events
5th January Tradional 3 Kings Cavalcade Parade along Main Street-starting from Casemates Square at 7pm 15th January The Gibraltar Philharmonic Society Berlin Philharmonic Solist Series Flute & Harp Recital at The Convent. For further information contact 200 72134. 27th January to 7th February Gibtelecom International Chess
Festival at Caleta Hotel. For further information contact 200 76501 16th February The Gibraltar Philharmonic Society Piano recital, Ingrid Fliter, at The Convent. For further information contact 200 72134 26th March The Gibraltar Philharmonic Society Baroque Spectacular at The Convent. For further information contact 200 72134.
Events: St Andrew’s Society Grand Ball
Live music on stage every night
Starters & Snacks Fresh Local Mussels Our Signature Dish ..........................................................................................£5.95 The Classic Bruschetta ........................................................................................................................£3.50 Blue Cheese & Rocket Bruschetta ......................................................................................................£3.75 Lordy’s Potato Skins ............................................................................................................................£4.75 Atlantic Prawn Cocktail ......................................................................................................................£5.25 Spicy Chicken Wings............................................................................................................................£4.75 Pil-Pil Prawns ........................................................................................................................................£5.25 Beef Pinchitos ......................................................................................................................................£4.75 Battered King Prawns ..........................................................................................................................£5.50
Main Courses
Calamares ............................................................................................................................................£6.25 Fresh Local Mussels - Our Signature Dish........................................................................................£7.25 British Fish And Chips ........................................................................................................................£6.25 Chicken & Mushroom Pie....................................................................................................................£5.75 Admirals Prime Fillet Steak ..............................................................................................................£14.50 Fillet Of John Dory ..............................................................................................................................£7.25 Chilli Con Carne ..................................................................................................................................£6.25 Spaghetti Bolognaise ............................................................................................................................£6.25 Lasagne ................................................................................................................................................£6.25 HMS Breakfast ......................................................................................................................................£5.50 Vegetarían Pasta Baked........................................................................................................................£5.50 Steak & Ale Pie......................................................................................................................................£6.25 Chicken Curry (m) ................................................................................................................................£6.25 Breaded Scampi ....................................................................................................................................£6.75
Freshly Baked Rolls & Sandwiches
Cheese and tomato ........................................................................................................................................£4.50 Sausage and egg ............................................................................................................................................£4.50 Bacon and egg ................................................................................................................................................£4.50 Ham and tomato ............................................................................................................................................£4.50 Tuna mayonnaise ..........................................................................................................................................£4.50 Prawn Mary Rose ..........................................................................................................................................£4.75 Chicken, lettuce and mayo ..........................................................................................................................£4.75 Chicken, bacon bits and mayo ....................................................................................................................£4.75 Crew’s club sandwich....................................................................................................................................£4.75
Burritos
Cajun Chicken ......................................................................................................................................£5.75 Guadalajara ..........................................................................................................................................£5.75 Vera Cruz ..............................................................................................................................................£5.75 Juarez ....................................................................................................................................................£5.75 El Paso The Gibraltar Arms’ favourite!!!! ............................................................................................£5.75
Salads
Chicken Caesar Salad ..........................................................................................................................£5.50 King Prawn Salad ..................................................................................................................................£6.50 Tuna Salad..............................................................................................................................................£5.50
Sizzlers
Argentina Sizzler..................................................................................................................................£10.25 Vegi Sizzler ............................................................................................................................................£8.50 Chicken & Cheese Sizzler ....................................................................................................................£9.50 Dips - garlic mayo, Mary Rose or sweet chilli ..................................................................................£1.00 Tartar Sauce ..........................................................................................................................................£1.00 Sauces - peppercorn, Bourbon, mushroom or blue cheese ............................................................£1.00 Homemade Pizzas Extra toppings - 50p Traditional Margherita ........................................................................................................................£7.50 Hawaiian................................................................................................................................................£7.50 Three Cheese........................................................................................................................................£7.95 Deluxe....................................................................................................................................................£7.50 Vegetarian ............................................................................................................................................£6.50
Burgers
Admirals Burger ..................................................................................................................................£7.50 Boson Burger ........................................................................................................................................£7.50 The Rock Burger ..................................................................................................................................£8.50 Cheese Burger ......................................................................................................................................£7.50
Nachos
Nelson’s Nachos....................................................................................................................................£4.50 With Cajun chicken slices ..................................................................................................................£5.45 Or with spicy chilli ..............................................................................................................................£5.45
Side Orders
Homemade chips ....................................................................................................................................£1.25 Homemade chips and cheese ..................................................................................................................£1.50 Garlic Bread ............................................................................................................................................£1.35 Garlic Bread and cheese ..........................................................................................................................£1.50 Dips - garlic mayo, Mary Rose or sweet chilli ..........................................................................................£1.00 Tartar Sauce ............................................................................................................................................£1.00 Sauces - peppercorn, Bourbon, mushroom or blue cheese ....................................................................£1.00
Children’s Menu
Welcome aboard shipmates! Choose from:................................................................................................................£4.00 Tasty golden chicken nuggets from Long John’s treasure chest Nelson’s fish caught from the starboard bow & chipped potatoes Crew’s sausage & chips rations Gunpowder boy’s pasta bolognaise
Gibraltar Live Music Society
Venue of the Year
Official Sponsor & Home to
The Gibraltar Rugby Club
NEW
Ice Cream Sundae Menu Gibraltar's Only
Authentic Irish Bar Opening 2008
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prize puzzle
SUDOKU
by Alan Gravett 2
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10
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8
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14 15
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No prize for this one — you’ll be doing it for the glory!
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Send completed crossword to: FIRST PRIZE: The Cannon Bar, Lunch for 2 at Cannon Lane, Gibraltar. The Cannon Bar One entry per person. Winner notified in next issue of The Gibraltar Magazine. Closing date: 24th January 2008 LAST MONTH’S ANSWERS: Across: Polynesian, Harridan, Owns, Told, Related, Triplicated, Scratch, Line, Zero, Proforma, Marguerite Down: Plait, Lorelei, Nude, Sentence, Aloha, Indeed, Black Pig, Ticket, Tripoli, Aroma, Combe, Note
Crossword Winners Kay Eggleton & Teressa Marquez
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Across 1) Delivering punishment (10) 6) Travels over snow (4) 10) Sub-continental feline (5) 11) North eastern 1) down (9) 12) African hoofed beast (8) 13) Entered on a computer or similar device (5) 15) View (7) 17) US word for train carriage (7) 19) Short drama (7) 21) Sets of eight notes (7) 22) Pale (5) 24) Twist together in a confused way (8) 27) Gentle word substituted for a franker one (9) 28) Allow; award (5) 29) Playthings (4) 30) Biting (5,5) Down 1) Conurbation (4) 2) South American country (9) 3) Nº. of Kings at Christmas (5) 4) Dusk (7) 5) See 23 7) Pool; pet name for a cat (5) 8) Most thin (10) 9) Catalogue of previous recordings or publications (8) 14) Smug (10) 16) Citizen of Guernsey for example (8) 18) Gibraltar’s January parade (9) 20) Jewellery on men’s neckwear (7) 21) Type of settee; early Turk (7) 23) & 5) Greeting this month (5,3,4) 25) Twelfth -----; Shakespeare or 5 January (5) 26) Irritate (4)
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farrington contemporary presents
francis eck Farrington Contemporary, an exciting new art gallery on the Ocean Village Promenade, has opened its doors to the public. With many well known names exhibiting their work each month together with resident artists, the quality of work on display is second to none in Gibraltar. Farrington Contemporary opened its doors with style at the end of last November, with the presentation of art, sculpture and jewellery by Tom Rickman, Pauline Lee and Malcom Betts. Both Tom and Pauline flew out for the inauguration and now with the gallery in full swing, January sees a new display of visiting artist Francis Eck’s work. Vivid oil on canvas with simple but striking strokes have gained Francis international recognition from Belgium through to China.
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In 1982 Francis was awarded the Rubens Prize followed by a string of prestigious awards throughout his career to date including the Universal Art Society Trophy in France during 2002, the Peking Excellence Prize in the same year and more recently in 2003 he was awarded “Commandeur de l’Ordre de l’Etoil de l’Europe”.
Eck’s style can be described as somewhere between realism and abstraction, with most of his compositions being painted from memory. n Eck’s work can be viewed and purchased from Farrington Contemporary throughout January, on the promenade at Ocean Village.
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enhancing the
scenery
by Jon Bull
“There is no spot of ground, however arid, bare or ugly, that cannot be tamed into such a state as may give an impression of beauty and delight” - Gertrude Jekyll
As I stood shivering from the wintery wind blowing through Queensway Quay, James of Srene Scapes enthusiastically talked me through the work he has been doing over the past year in the redesigning and restoration of the gardens of this site. With a BSc in Horticulture, James was quick to rattle off the botanical names of the latest additions to his gardens, including a few unusual species which he’s introduced into his garden design. He’s especially proud of his tree fern (Dicksonia antarctica), which requires certain environmental conditions which are not naturally found on this site. But, by creating the optimum growing conditions for this plant, his tree fern now adds interest to an otherwise dull area. At the end of the day though, Gibraltar is an ideal location for many varieties of plants, some easier to maintain than others. The dessert garden created by Serene Scapes just by the Queensway Quay roundabout is a low maintenance, yet aesthetically pleasing garden area. “This is a much admired area of Queensway, the garden obviously needs to be maintained all the year round but the plants store water and they require little or no irrigation during the hot season.” On the subject of ongoing garden maintenance James is keen to point out that often the
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need for this is underrated. “Plants need to be both nurtured and controlled to maximise their potential and without skilled intervention a garden can rapidly become chaotic, totally losing its desired effect.” Preferring to think outside the box for his landscape creations, James is eager to look for stunning centrepieces for his creations and to try to show plants which you don’t see around Gibraltar every day, although many of these can be found in the Alameda Gardens too. His carefully designed themes take into account not just colour, height and positioning but the effects from locating a plant in a particular place. Whenever he discovers a plant which will complement his designs he carefully researches before purchasing. “It’s important to understand the plant fully before committing yourself, since environmental factors will determine the plants welfare,” he explains. Understanding the plants and the environment are key, but James likes to look at other, more subtle features too. “Scent, colour, texture, and form add character and vibrancy to any garden”. For example, placing a highly scented plant in an overlooked area of the garden will entice the visitor to trace the source of the fragrance. You’ll find other surprises in James’ gardens where he carefully places prize specimens which will bloom when you least expect it. His idea to have interest all year round is not difficult to achieve in a Mediterranean climate, he explained. While Gibraltar is more geared to Mediterranean plants, the local weather can accommodate species from milder areas of Great
You’ll find other surprises in James’ gardens where he carefully places prize specimens which will bloom when you least expect it Britain and Ireland alongside some tropical plants too, meaning there’s a wide range of plants which can be combined to bloom year round. While the main business in Gibraltar is for medium to large scale landscaping, James is also expanding into the smaller garden and “Balcony Garden” areas. As many people don’t have access to green areas at home, the idea of having a professional landscape your balcony with plants which will thrive is an extremely interesting idea. And add to that that any garden can be adapted to your specific budget, it’s definitely something worth thinking about. As a general rule achieving an instant mature garden will cost more but if you’re happy using smaller plants it would be less expensive and you will have the satisfaction of watching the plants develop over the years to come and in most situations a younger plant adapts better to a new environment. James’ philosophy is to create gardens to last. There’s no point in planting a garden with trees and plants which will have outgrown the area in
Office Refurbishments & Fitting Out
a couple of years. It’s much more cost effective to think carefully about how the plants will grow in the chosen environment and make sure your plant selection will not cause inconvenience in the future. n James can be contacted at Serene Scapes by phone on +350 54018134 or email info@serenescapesgib. com
Home Renovations & Refurbishments
SOLUTIONS
PO Box 598 Tel: 57185000 Fax: 77041
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neon cities by David Parody
You are stuffed! No more pata negra, turkey or polvorones. You have started to disregard your New Year’s resolutions which you planned so well and the winter blues have settled in. You are facing the long desperate struggle to make it through the rest of the winter in the hope spring will bring a new lease of life. This is the time you start to make preparations for the next holiday just as an antidote for the depressing prospect that lies ahead. Well why not consider injecting yourself with a dose of a busy city life to brighten up your life?
New York
Hong Kong
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Two cities immediately spring to mind, cities where you are embraced by high-rise construction, car horns blaring every second, people running around, shops with opportunities until you really drop and a lifestyle that gets into your bloodstream — but these cities are worlds apart. Hong Kong and New York share more in common than names with two words. Both cities can bring you that “good to be alive” feeling and yet they are so different. It has been over ten years since I was last in Hong Kong, before the hand-over, and it was interesting to see how the territory has changed since that time. And change it has, for the better. The new airport is a vast improvement on the previous one where you almost had breakfast with residents as you flew in through their living rooms. It just gets better from there onwards. The hugely efficient airport authorities make sure a long queue, which if it had been JFK or Miami airports would have set you back three hours, means you only spend a few minutes to clear customs and immigration. Superb train and road connections to Central and Kowloon means you can be at your hotel in next to no time. The moment you step out of the air-conditioned taxi or train you cannot but notice you are in some exotic and far-distant land. Soon the 14 hour flight seems nothing more than a distant memory as you are carried away by the
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n s
travel energy this city offers. The smells and sounds are well and truly foreign and exciting. Neon signs in Mandarin promising all sorts of goods (one can only imagine what they stand for!) inviting customers to purchase. Hong Kong is definitely a city you need to do on foot. But do not feel afraid to use the superb metro system. It is huge, very fast and cheap. It does what most other transport systems fail to do, actually transport masses of people quietly and efficiently. Use the metro or taxis to get from A to B but once you get near your destination, walk. There is no better way. What’s more, don’t take a map with you. It is great to get lost here. Turn a corner, an alleyway and you could be facing a tranquil temple, garden or a busy local shopping street and stalls not found in the guidebook. It is very safe. There is one must do in Hong Kong and that is to take the famous Star Ferry to get across from Central Hong Kong to Kowloon and back. The single class fare is something like 25p in normal class and slightly more expensive when you travel 1st, but you must do it in steerage. Shopping is an experience. Whether it be the night markets or the classy designer shops, there is something for everyone. Browsing, haggling and window-shopping are some of the delights here. Never pay the asking price at any shop! If you cannot haggle you way down to at least 30% cheaper than the asking price, give up. You are not cut out to shop in Hong Kong. Take the tram to the Ridge for an unforgettable view of the territory; get up early and watch residents performing Tai Chi in the open spaces; listen to the birds in Bird Market and buy a fake Rolex in Ladies Market (going rate is £12) for your friends. Watch live fish being filleted in front of your eyes at the fish monger stalls. Smell the lovely foods emanating from every corner. If you must, go to Disneyland, but only if you must. Hong Kong is the city that really never sleeps. There are many spectacular restaurants and lively bars to choose from. Many with spectacular views of the harbour and its nightly light show as skyscrapers are illuminated in a expertly coordinated manner making for a brilliant night out. Avoid the tourist traps of the Aberdeen Harbour floating restaurants. The people of Hong Kong are busy people, as you would expect them to be in a big city, and whilst they carry out their everyday tasks you cannot help but notice they are genuinely interested in helping you out. Not in order to get a tip but because it is their way. They will help in their efficient way to get the job done, no matter what you ask. There is something very work-orientated about Hong Kong.
On the other side of the world stands the ubiquitous New York. Same feeling of being surrounded by skyscrapers, the noise and the bustle of such a metropolis. But with New York comes familiarity which in itself is re-assuring. A language you understand and as it is the film set of so many movies and TV programmes, you cannot help but think you have been here before. So if you fancy yourself a Carrie from Sex and the City or Chandler from Friends this is your home town. In contrast to Hong Kong, the New York crumble of grime seems to be a statement in urban decay not something which must be embraced. Travelling the subway must only be done in daylight hours if you are travelling alone and worse still, if you can understand it. Too many variations as to which line you are to catch, what stations it stops at and little by way of signage to be of assistance. New Yorkers have a reputation from being rude and angry. There is good reason for this as little works as advertised. Taxi drivers don’t know how to drive let alone get you to your destination, nothing runs on time (or sometimes do not run at all, no warning given). New York is too big to walk so be prepared to know exactly where you are going and give the taxi driver very specific instructions as to which intersection you want to be left at (avenues go up and down followed by the streets which go from left to right). Service is slow, food overpriced and not of a very high quality. You only get a smile from your “server” (waiter for you and me) until such time as they have slapped the bill in front of you for their 15% gratuity (tip) after which you can have a heart attack and they would only come to your rescue in order to make room for the next customer! But despite its many failings New York is happening. There is a buzz that makes this city live and it is contagious. Wall Street may no longer be the powerhouse it once was, the pound has taken a fall against the dollar but yet we cannot
Hong Kong and New York share more in common than names with two words. Both cities can bring you that “good to be alive” feeling Hong Kong
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but resist going back. Why? Perhaps it is because we have all been here before when we have watched our favourite TV show, but it really is a great place to visit. The mandatory stops are of course, Statute of Liberty, Natural History Museum and any type of art that may take your fancy. Stand in the middle of Times Square at night and try to figure out where all those people are going to as they stream out of the many Broadway shows. Thousands of people hurrying like ants. The shopping meccas of Saks, Macy’s and 5th Avenue await you. Buy that special person something at Tiffany’s (you only live once) and gawk at the gawdy pink marble and golden finishes inside the Trump Towers. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge and take the Staten Island Ferry for a glimpse of Manhattan from the river. Pay homage to the victims of the World Trade Centre. There is a phenomenon happening in New York, people seem to be compelled to walk around with a paper cup full of Starbucks coffee permanently attached to their hand. This epitomises what New York is about, busy people, so busy that they cannot afford the time to sit down for a coffee. Everything moves along at a frightening pace. If you want to chill out, get as far into Central Park as you can. It is as if you are transported to a different planet, the noise subsides, life slows down. If you haven’t had enough of the shopping after a few days of it, catch a bus to Woodbury Common outlet shopping mall where you can find all the designer names at hugely discounted prices. And if you have a full day to spare then be adventurous and spend a whole day going to Niagara Falls and back. However you choose to travel in New York be prepared to arrive back at the hotel completely exhausted. A strong word of advice here. If your budget allows it... choose to upgrade your flight to business class. No longer is this form of travel reserved for a few. Offers and upgrades (especially if you choose the cheapest possible fare) makes this form of travel worthwhile. Cabins on the aircraft actually permit you to sleep on the way there. Personal video systems no longer make the arrival of a scrumptious dinner something which spoils your in flight entertainment. Better still is the use of the lounges. BA’s new Terminal 5 makes the price worthwhile. Get you complimentary spa treatment before you fly, or take your dinner at the lounge before you board the plane at JFK. It will be the best money you spend on your holiday. Go on, you deserve it.... there is still a few months of winter left. What are you waiting for! n
New York
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theatre
by Elena Scialtiel
skipping through the woods with
red ridinghood If you’re crossing the woods this late January, watch out for a little girl in her scarlet cape, and her ramshackle party of friends and foe — they are armed and dangerous.... with side-splitting laughter!
Frankie Hatton returns as the Dame this year
You guessed it, it’s pantomime time again and, since leaves began falling down from Main Street’s trees, the Trafalgar Theatre Group have been working tirelessly on a tale of intrigue never seen before in Gibraltar. After the success of the exotic Aladdin last year, they’re tackling a classic children’s story but with the farcical twist that makes the pantomime the most anticipated annual entertainment date for children who enjoy their acquaintance with the wonderful world of theatre. And the kids are indeed catapulted into a wonderful world, whatever their ages, as soon as it is curtain-up time on Rosie Rumple’s birthday party, where a game of musical chairs is in full swing. Rosie (played by naval nurse Karen McCullough) is dreading the inevitable gift of yet another red riding hood her grandmother Grannie Grabbit (Lindsay Jennings) presents her with every year, while her simpleton brother Reggie (Bayside drama teacher Julian Felice) warms up the audience in preparation for the hilarious fitness class given by their mother, Roxie (Frankie Hatton), in her stretch leopard-skin leotard. After having spookily played the baddie last year, let’s cheer for Frankie’s return to his first love, the Dame, in carnivalesque costumes and smeared lipstick! The Rumples live in the “idyllic but troubled’’ Pantovia, brought to its knees by money-grabbing baddie Count de Cash (Tim Seed), initially with the help of his footmen Cringe and Cower, whom the lionhearted principal boy (and Rosie’s sweetheart) Prince Rupert (Sylvana Felice) is trying to conquer, with the help of characters like Gertrude (Nadine Gonzalez), absolutely desperate to catch herself a husband, or pompous butler Sternum, played with panache by local radio celebrity David Hoare. With tragic-comic twists and turns, and gasping suspense, the plot reaches its peak when Count de Cash leads the villagers on a
wild-goose chase around the forest to hunt a wolf on the loose. Eventually realising how evil their boss really is, clumsy Cringe and Cower champion the happy ending and save the day pantomime style, however not before Grannie Grabbit, chased around her cottage by the ravenous beast, gives the audience an extra chance for one more roaring guffaw. The sidekicks are the real surprise in this production, for their multi-faceted dramatis personae spare them from being predictable caricatures — although they have plenty of chances to make fools of themselves — thanks to the talented actors who play them. Andrew Dark (Cringe) is an actor and director, who recently landed on the Rock’s shores and is putting his expertise at the service of the local amateur drama club, bending his American accent to a cockney inflection to complement Cower’s Irish modulations. Cower (played by military chief doctor Joe Neary) and Cringe well bounce off each other and make the perfect pair of ‘zeros to heroes’. Directed and supervised by Margaret Seed, the cast is tipped to make the Ince’s Hall limited stage pretty crowded with adults and teenagers, a twenty-strong chorus and further twenty junior dancers, choreographed by Angelique Acolina. Beyond the fifty keen performers skipping around in colourful outfits as if straight off a cartoon sequence, Little Red Riding Hood can count on the excellent backstage crew overseeing the complicated change of scenes from Rosie’s house, to the palace dungeons, the woods, Grannie’s cottage… And given the average audience’s short attention span the changes must be rapid and not disrupt the action, that’s why set designer and builder Steve Morley is making full use of the back cloths, thus the action can be kept rolling on front stage while transforming the scenery behind it, without having to draw the red curtain and constrain the actors
The sidekicks are the real surprise in this production, for their multi-faceted dramatis personae spare them from being predictable caricatures 80
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theatre to the proscenium for long intermezzos. Margaret — whose reputation in Gibraltar as Queen of the Panto Team is making it year in year out more difficult for anyone else to dare to share her legacy and live up to it — is also undergoing the tricky chore of picking the fabrics for the hand-sewn costumes. She is pleased with the way wannabe actors responded the auditions, and she is sorry she had to turn down more people than she would have liked to. But she is thrilled with the high number of men in this cast, as they usually are a bit more stage-shy than the fairer sex, and in previous editions some ladies had to play male parts. n Shows on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7.30, between 22nd and 31st January, with three matinées at 2.30 available for weekend performances. Tickets, priced £6, will go on sale from 7th January between 6 and 7.30pm, Saturdays 1.30-2.30.
Little Red Riding Hood can count on the excellent backstage crew overseeing the complicated change of scenes from Rosie’s house, to the palace dungeons, the woods, Grannie’s cottage
photos: the magic of Gibraltar’s pantomime from previous years
The Taste Indian Restaurant class Catering with a touch of Breakfasts • Lunch Afternoon Tea (£1.99) Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian Menus Homemade Desserts Eat-in or Take-away SENSIBLE PRICES
Outside Catering Service Open: 8am - 4.30pm Monday - Friday
Tel: 200 48014 1st Floor ICC
THE NEW ROYAL CALPE
An Exclusive Eating Experience in Amazing Surroundings Reservations Advisable Tel: 00 34 856 12 29 18 / 00 34 626 88 40 38 Take-Away Service Private Dining Room Facility open: every day 5pm to late, Friday Saturday and Sunday 1pm to late Avda. del Ejercito, esq. Calle Gibraltar, 11300 La Linea - in front of the Frontier GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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2 EVENING MEALS
£7.95
176 Main Street, Gibraltar Tel: 200 75890 royalcalpe@gibtelecom.net
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healthy eating
get back into
balance After a week or two of overindulging there are more than a few of us back at work feeling a little low and drained, with aching bodies and more than an average aching head. Although your body has its own extremely powerful defences which, while following a healthy, balanced diet, will put your body back on track, we have a few suggestions which might just help you keep your New Year’s Resolution on getting back into shape.
The word “Detox” has been exploited commercially for many years now, especially around this time of year. From innovative “health” packages which will put you back in shape in no time (perfectly viable, whilst cleaning out your wallet at the same time), through to the very suspect such as the Japanese foot pads which claimed the wood sap they contained will draw out the toxins in your body through the acupuncture points in the sole of your feet — much in the same way the wood sap cleans the water in a large area around the roots of the tree — making the giant leap of faith that the human body has the same chemical make-up as trees. In fact, there are much simpler and cheaper ways to help your body along and which will not only help to balance out your body, but can
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from there on it’s down to a healthy, balanced diet and maybe a little additional help with some vitamins and minerals your body doesn’t replenish quite so easily. Selenium, found naturally in our bodies and in many foods such as brazil nuts, broccoli, brown rice, chicken, dairy products, garlic, onions, molasses, seafood, vegetables and whole grains, helps to produce the antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase, which helps to flush toxins from our bodies. Its use to treat patients recovering from chemotherapy testifies to its properties. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but exposure to ultraviolet light, cigarette smoke and air pollutions can increase the levels in your body. Zinc can protect your body from the harmful effects of toxins by three separate mechanisms: The antioxidant properties of zinc can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause, it is a constituent of the important antioxidant enzyme Superoxide Dismutase and Zinc is needed for the proper absorption of Vitamin E (yet another important antioxidant). Food sources include: egg yolks, fish, lamb, legumes, mushrooms, pecans, oysters, poultry, soybeans, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, parsley, and kelp. Why not try a few simple recipes which as well as tasting great will give your body a boost and without putting a hole in your pocket.
Pomegranate & Turkey Salad Ingredients:
250g pineapple bits, drained 750g diced cooked turkey 250g celery, sliced on the slant 250g diced apples (Rome, Winesap, or any redskinned variety) 125g pomegranate seeds 125g toasted slivered almonds 250g mayonnaise 75g sour cream 60ml pineapple juice
Preparation:
Toss pineapple in large bowl with turkey, celery, apples, pomegranates seeds, and almonds. In separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and pineapple juice. Toss dressing with turkey mix in the larger bowl. Garnish with additional pomegranate seeds and toasted almonds.
be taken on as part of your New Year promise to keep your body clean, healthy and feeling good. First and foremost (even the scientists agree with this) drink plenty of water. It is thought to be beneficial to drink around two litres a day while cutting caffeine intake to the minimum. This will hydrate your body as well as reducing the diuretic impact of your coffee or tea. And whilst we’re on the subject, it might be a good idea to cut out the alcohol totally, at least for a month to give your liver a chance to recover. For the long term, the odd glass of wine can be good for your body too. Keep fit. Plenty of fresh air and a little exercise will do wonders to help you feel back on top of the world and is yet another universally embraced way to balance out your body, and
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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healthy eating
Selenium, found naturally in our bodies and in many foods, helps to flush toxins from our body Healthy juice recipe Ingredients:
250ml orange juice 125ml pure water 250g cut-up banana, strawberries or yogurt 1/2 inch slice of ginger (do not remove the skin!) 1 small garlic clove 1 tablespoon flax oil 1 tablespoon lecithin granules 1 tablespoon squeezed lime juice
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili Ingredients:
1 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 red onion, chopped 1/2 red pepper, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoons sea salt 1/2 sweet potatoe, cut into ½ inch chunks Juice of 1/2 lime 200g diced tomatoes 750g freshly cooked black beans (tinned works too) 1/2 jalapeño, chopped and seeded 1/2 tablespoon cumin 1/2 tablespoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder 1/2 lime, cut into wedges 125g chopped corriander
Just blend it all together using an Directions: S blade in the mixer and enjoy. Heat the oil in a large pan at medium heat. Add the onion, red Alternatives You might like to substitute or pepper, garlic, and salt and let add, a tablespoon of protein pow- cook for four minutes. Put in the sweet potato and lime der, a spoonful of spirulina powder, a tablespoon of Coral Calcium juice, cumin, chili powder, and powder (when adding powdered cocoa. Turn down the heat and let items you may add a little extra the mixture simmer. Continue to water or juice), lemon juice instead cook for ten minutes. Serve with rice (if you like.) Garof lime juice, olive oil or Omega-3 oil instead of flax oil, apple juice in- nish with lime and corriander. stead of orange, blueberries instead Makes 5 servings. n of bananas.
Modern
Relaxed
Dining
Open: 10am - late Closed Sundays + Saturday lunch
Irish Town Tel: 200 51738 to reserve
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food & drink
14
new look for just desserts
on the QUAY
Queensway Quay Marina Tel: 200 43731
Enjoy exemplary food with exceptional value in the relaxed atmosphere of Queensway Quay Marina
lunch afternoon tea dinner cocktails
If you’re one of the regulars at Just Desserts, you’ll be in for a surprise when you call in this month. When they re-open on 5th January, the decor will have changed from green to coffee and cream, giving the cafe a little more of a bistro feel. The other major change you’ll find is that Rosemary and the girls have had a big “de-clutter” (Rosemary’s words not ours)! Just Desserts has been open for nearly six years now with an ever developing menu, and in that respect the differences you’ll see from now on will be following that trend. With over 30 salads and fillings, apart from a healthy meal menu, the girls at Just Desserts will be working just as hard through this next year as always to serve you with their bubbly smiles and home made meals. Rosemary first started out with the Healthy Options shop in Ocean Heights and was making cakes for other restaurants. When given the option for a unit in the ICC she took the opportunity to open Just Dessert, initially just serving her home-made cakes and pastries to all-comers. Over the years the business has expanded to two and
then the three units the cafe now occupies and the gradual growth has meant the introduction of savory options and take-away food too. The girls are always looking for new ideas to improve their menu and to keep in touch with modern eating trends, so on most visits you’ll find something new on the menu. Two years ago Rosemary decided to implement no-smoking inside the cafe, but with tables in the little square outside, they can accommodate smokers too. They were a little concerned on how it would affect their clients, but were pleasantly surprised to find that business was still booming months (and now years) after. A fully licensed restaurant, Just Desserts can be found on the first floor of the ICC on Main Street with their take-away bar and sit down cafe/restaurant. Why not pop in to take a look at their new decor, just as an excuse to taste a little excellent home-made cooking or to meet the genuine, fun-loving team. n
Pickwicks on Governor’s Parade (opposite the Eliott Hotel)
The Best Sandwiches made especially for you as well as Jackets•Salads•Burgers and a whole lot more
open Monday to Friday from 9.30am
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food & drink
Savannah opening bash Relaxation, fun and style are the promises of Gibraltar’s latest venue, Savannah, which opened its doors to the public with a glittering bash during December.
Savannah is a concept which showcases fine cuisine, an excellent selection of drinks, cool decor and even cooler music. In the visually stunning setting of the Island down at Ocean Village, Savannah will be hosting a whole spectrum of events to cover every taste, for example the HedKandi Party for New Year’s Eve — famed for glamourous show stopping parties from Pacha, London to Tokyo, Japan... and now at Ocean Village, Gibraltar... cool! n
enjoy relax relax
Contemporary Mediterranean Dining
enjoy relax delicious Grand Casemates Square
FREE WiFi
Tel:
200 44449
View our menu on our website www.casemates.gi
Just-a-Nibble Charity Draw
106 Eurotowers, Europort Road, Gibraltar Tel: 200 76044 Fax: 200 72760
Full Takeaway Service
Available for Private Functions • Party Menus from £4.95 per head
~ Full Sports Coverage on 3 Screens ~ Just-a-Nibble in the ICC held their Christmas hamper draw on 17th December having spent the previous month handing out free tickets to all clients who spent over £5.00 in the cafe. The draw, held in aid of Research into Childhood Cancer, was won by ticket number 990, with Tony Sacarello of the Charity pulling the winning name out of the hat. Just-a-Nibble donated a cheque for £100 to the cause, and would like to thank their suppliers, Allied Traders, Anglo Hispano, Fastafood, Lloyds Ent, B Sacarello and Saccone & Speed for their donations to the hamper and helping make the event a huge success. GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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Breakfasts (Full English to Egg or Beans &Toast)• Breakfast Baguettes (all day) • Baguettes / Sandwiches (Egg Mayo to Honey Roasted Ham to Steak & Onion) • Time Out Open Sandwiches
(Mozzarella, Basil & Red Pepper • Cajun Chicken • Honey Roasted Ham & Cheese • Chargrilled Chicken & Avocado • Tuna, Prawn, Lemon & Créme Fraiche) • Wraps (Chicken Caesar • BLT • Feta, Olive, Mint & Yoghurt Dressing • Chargrilled Chicken, Red Pepper & Onion)• Panini • Starters & side dishes (Onion Rings & Nachos to Potato Skins) • Mains (from Chicken Tikka Masala to Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash or Quiche or Roast of the Day) • Salads (from Chicken Caesar or Greek to Ploughman’s)• Jackets (Chilli & Cheese to Smoked Salmon) • Desserts • Drinks etc
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wine column
Dere Nigel’s Xmas & New Yere Following the celebrations, most children face the ghastly prospect of having to write thank-you letters. Heaven help the child who does not write; the wrath of Granny/ Aunty/Godmother can be terrible (and the missing letter never forgotten). I recently received the following excellent example of a thank-you letter from my 11 yearold Godson, Nigel Molesworth, and I thought it deserved wider dissemination. Its orthography, fluency and hidden tact say much for the educational establishment, St Custard’s, attended by Nigel and his younger brother. ‘Thank you for the Super Hadron Collider. I hav broken it alreddy. Dad sa he can repare it but u kno wot dad is like. Plees send a replay repleasem anuther one and include a bott WISKY for Dad who sez he will kill u but semed beter after he finished the last bott. We had a v good Xmas. The Santa trap, dezined by me with sum help from Molesworth II, was very suksesful judging by the noises we herd on Xmas Eev. We lerned a few new words. We asked Mum wot they ment and she sed she woz sure Santa wood never sa them and then she stormed off into the kitshin and started shouting at Dad. We got lots of presence. Mum and Dad gave me sum improoving books chiz chiz and Molesworth II got a Small Hadron Collider wich he hav also broken. I gave Mum a broatch wot I found in Granny’s room wen we last went there. She woz very pleesed and sed she woz looking forwerd to showing it to Granny as it woz a peece wot sooted a yung woman. She just smiled at me wen I sed it mite be best not to sho it to Granny. I gave Dad, after Mum sujested it, a dishcloth but he dident seme to like it and it woz his turn to start shouting at Mum in the kitshin. On yore rekomendation Dad went to Grabber and Grabber wine emporeum for drinks for grone-ups; Molesworth II and me got fobbed off with the ushual jooses. Dad sa that anyone can sa an eggspensive wine is good but finding a good one that Dad can aford is the real test. He thort the ordnary klarrits (not shore of the speling) with Grabber’s layble on were OK but any fule wood kno that. But he reely liked the Blossom Hill speshully as it had a skroo top and so we dident have to play ‘Hunt the Korkskroo’ (chiz chiz as Molesworth II and me reely enjoy that game becoz it menes we can hide Mum’s kitshin nives and then she starts shouting at Dad). Dad sa that plastik korks are impossibul to get out and he will personly stik a korkscroo in a place ware the person who invented them wood not like it. He sa that the person shood kno that a korkscroo is called a korkscroo becoz
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it is dezined for korks not some plastik rubish. The last time Dad tryed to pull out a plastik kork he cut his finger and used sum words wich ended up with Mum shouting at him in the kitshin agane. Wen the brandy faled to lite up on the Xmas pud (wich was beter becoz ushualy the Xmas pud tayst of burnt holly), Dad quikly sa to Mum that she will enjoy the Beaumes de Venise desert wine – I looked at the layble for the speling. She did indede like it but Dad took a gulp and spat it out over Granny so you can imajin wot hapend next. Wen they came back from the kitshin Granny sa that she woz OK and had very much enjoid the rest of the wine. Mum did not look pleezed about this but Granny sa something about the broatch wich shut Mum up. As ushual everyone eggsept Molesworth II and me went to slepe in the afternoon wich is wen we broke
Wen the brandy faled to lite up on the Xmas pud (wich was beter becoz ushualy the Xmas pud tayst of burnt holly), Dad quikly sa to Mum that she will enjoy the Beaumes de Venise desert wine – I looked at the layble for the speling
the presence. Enuff of Xmas. At New Yere Mum and Dad had a party wen Molesworth II had to dress up as a bayby and pretend to be Jan 1. This woz grate and I got a foto of him wich I hav put on u-tube. I will be sirprized if he hav enny frends left wen we go back to skool. I gave the bott of Veuve Clicquot (wich you sent) a good shake so that Dad cood open it eezily. Molesworth II sneked that I had done it chiz I will get him back. Dad, with sekond bott, sa something about Widdows and spyders and Granny. Mum took him into kitshin and party finished soon after. Thank you agane and pleeze remmember yore promiss to visit me at skool next term. Dad sa he will try to visit at same time in order to give you a peace of his mind but I think he ma not have much mind left to give you (joke ha-ha hope you understand it). You also sed you wood tell me about GURLS and Dad think this wood be a good idea alltho I cannot see the point of them – Dad sa you will sirprize me. Yores
Nigel I regard my prospective visit to Nigel at St Custard’s with some trepidation, but I am glad that my various recommendations went down well. n
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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Birdie Bar Restaurant
Just A Nibble
& Chinese Food Takeaway
Licensed Cafeteria Let the ‘A’ Team serve you up a snack or a meal. Daily Specials • Varied Menu
Open: Monday - Friday 10-3.30, 6.30-11 Saturday-Sunday 6.30-11.30
Open from 9am First Floor ICC, Main Street THE PLACE TO MEET
16 Watergardens II Tel: 200 72885
thyme
Sail 3B Ocean Village Promenade Ocean Village, Gibraltar Fabulous Food with a
Caribbean Flavour Delicious
Rum Cocktails
Pusser’s Landing Tel: 21622162 10am till late, 7 days Pusser’s CompanyStore Tel: 21642164
dining rooms
restaurant &bar guide
turn to pages 88-90 for full restaurant and bar listings
5 Cornwall’s Lane. Tel: 200 49199 Email: thymegib@hotmail.com
Ground Floor Bar open from 10.30 daily Pool Table • TV • Machines
First Floor ’Hoots’ open from 1pm
2 Pool Table s• Darts • Machines Tel: 20077446
2nd Floor ‘The Nest’ open from 5pm
American Pool • Card Table
Traditional English Pub with the best of English beers
Get Stuffed!
Marina Bay Tel: 200 42006
Sunny Terrace
WORLDWIDE SPORTS
Showing 4 digital channels on 5 TVs just off Main Street - 4 Cornwall’s Parade Tel: 200 59997
Piccadilly Garden Bar
Homemade Food Daily Specials
RESTAURANT • Sunshine Terrace
Big Screen TV live football Pig & Whistle Open: 10-midnight (Fri-Sat 11am-1am) Unit 18, Watergardens,
Gibraltar Tel: 20076167
THREE 60 Governor’s Street
English Fresh Fish Breakfasts Prawns Churros Squid Hamburgers Clams Toast Meats Take-away Rosia Rd. Tel: 200 75758 • Menu of the day £6
ROSES
Wembley Bar
Tel: 200 51614
10 South Barrack Ramp. Tel: 200 78004
Fully Air-Conditioned with 3 Plasma TVs
The One and Only Scottish Embassy Open 7 Days a Week
• Hot & cold bar snacks • Function room
Indian Cuisine to Eat In or Take Away Unit 1.0.02 Grnd Flr, Block 1 Eurotowers Tel: 200 73711
Casa Pepe Open: Mon-Sat 11am-late 18 Queensway Quay Marina Tel/Fax: 200 46967
BUDDIES pasta casa
Come and enjoy real Italian meals in Gibraltar’s leading pasta house 15 Cannon Lane Tel: 200 40627 for reservations
Open 8-7 Mon-Fri, 10-7 Sat, 11-6 Sun 248 Main St - delivery Tel/Fax: 200 76699
BY DAY BY NIGHT Made-to-order Lounge Bar Sandwiches, Soups, Happy Hours 7-9pm Salads, Wraps, Free Tapas Fridays Baguettes etc 5-7pm 5 Waterport Plaza - (Public Market)
SMITH’S
open: from 8.30am
FRESHLY BAKED
bread, brioche, rolls, bagels, croissants, cakes
HOME DELIVERY Open
FISH & CHIPS HADDOCK PLAICE • COD FRESH FRIED IN CRISPY BATTER
AMAR’S BAKERY & COFFEE SHOP
1a Convent Place (opp. the Convent) Tel: 200 73516 Wide variety of ready-made food now available for take-away or sitdown All food is Kosher
Take-Away, Sandwiches & Hot Food Different Special EveryDay salads, quiches, pastas, pies, muffins, all home made Open 8am-6pm Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm Sat
57 Irish Town, Gibraltar Tel: 200 70625
295 MAIN ST Tel: 200 74254
7
days a week Glacis Estate
Tel: 200 71992
Wines, Spirits, Tobacco, Beers & Soft Drinks Distributors Est. 1839
35 Devil’s Tower Road, Gibraltar. Telephone: (350) 200 74600 Telefax: (350) 200 77031 e-mail: mail@sacspeed.gi A Member of The Saccone & Speed (Gibraltar) Group of Companies GIBRALTAR 2009 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE MAGAZINE •• NOVEMBER JANUARY 2009
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restaurants Café Solo Grand Casemates Square. Tel: 200 44449 Modern Italian eatery set in the lively Casemates square. Everything from chicory and crispy pancetta salad with walnuts, pears and blue cheese dressing, or king prawn, mozzarella and mango salad to pastas(eg: linguine with serrano ham, king prawns and rocket; smoked salmon and crayfish ravioli with saffron and spinach cream) to pizzas (eg: Vesuvio spicy beef, cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers and red onions; and Romana chorizo, black pudding, egg and pancetta) and pizzas (eg: Quatto Stagioni topped with mozzarella, ham, chicken, pepperoni and mushroom) and specialities such as salmon fishcakes, beef medallions and duck. Good daily specials menu on blackboard. Smoke free inside. Free WiFi. Cafe Rojo 54 Irish Town. Tel: 200 51738 Sleek modern comfort in this relaxing little restaurant. Red comfy arm chairs in separate area for a relaxing drink or coffee. Brunch menu (10am-12pm) includes ciabatta, granary, foccacia sandwiches with fillings such as pear and blue cheese, smoked bacon and brie, cheese and honey roast ham, delicious desserts (chocolate mousse in a must). Lunch 12 - 3pm and dinner 7-10pm includes salads of coconut coated langostines (deep fried in a coconut batter, sweet chilli and ginger dressing); and warm goats cheese & fresh spinach with sautéed mushrooms, croutons, basil & balsamic dressing; pasta dishes such as langostine pil pil; sautéed chorizo, chicken and langostines; and fresh salmon & spinach; and main courses including chargrilled fillet steak; wrapped chicken; lamb shoulder; and fresh salmon fillet with sesame crust. Open: from 10am. Closed all day Sundays, and Saturday lunch. Casa Pepe 18 Queensway Quay Marina. Tel/Fax: 200 46967 Email: casa.pepe.gib@gmail.com Situated right on the water front at Queensway Quay, Casa Pepe has a comprehensive a la carte menu which includes dishes such as melon & Serrano ham, stuffed piquillo peppers and filled mushrooms to start, followed by a choice of salads, rice and noodles and fish, poultry and meat dishes which include King Prawns Macarena (cooked with fresh ginger, tomatoes, mangos and bananas served with basmati rice, fried bread and bananas), Medallions of monkfish cooked with white wine and lobster sauce, duck breast Armanac-style (with Cognac, mushrooms and pine nuts), Medallions of pork loin cooked with Serrano ham and dry Jerez sherry, and fillet steak Malagueña cooked in creamy garlic mushrooms and sweet sherry sauce topped with prawns. Wide range of tapas/raciones also available. Open: Monday to Saturday 11am till late.
the Chorizo Criolla de Argentina (spicy sausage grilled over coal and wood), or the Mariscos del Rio Plata or Empanada de Queso Azul (blue cheese oven baked in a black pepper pasty) to start, or for main course perhaps the Fillet de Salmon Chimichurri (salmon with grilled banana, mango and avocado sauce), or Crepe Argenteuil (with grilled asparagus and wild mushrooms), or one of the steaks (lots from Lomo de Alto, Solomillo, and T-bone to Corazon de Cuadril - tender heart of rump, well matured). There is lots more too — Parrillada de Gaucho (for two - steak, sausages, chicken, pork and lamb), salads (try the Remolacha Tostada con Queso de Cabra - tasty goat’s cheese salad) — and the desserts are to die for too! They say “this is a great experience for you to savour”.... give it a try! Call 200 59700 to reserve your table. Open: 7.30pm - late. Laziz Sail 2.2 Ocean Village Marina. Tel: 200 40971 www.lazizrestaurant.com Laziz is a plush Indian cuisine restaurant right on the waterfront at Ocean Village (in fact it’s built over the water). This tastefully fitted out restaurant has two menus — evolved and traditional. Each dish is berautifully served and presented, and you will find lots of unusual and delicious dishes to choose from — a real pleasure for the taste buds. Seating is in comfortable booths or on tables at the waterside (the restaurant’s big glazed windows open right up in the summer for an outdoor feel). Open: daily 11-midnight. Kitchen open: 12-3, 6-11. Nunos Italian Restaurant and Terrace Caleta Hotel, Catalan Bay For a reservations Tel: 200 76501 E-mail reservations@caletahotel.gi Nunos Italian restaurant and terrace at the Caleta Hotel, overlooks the Mediterranean and is extremely popular with both hotel guests and the local market. Recognised for its eclectic interior, atmosphere and cuisine. Bread, pasta and desserts from the a la carte menu are all homemade and contribute to create a genuine and exciting dining experience.
Restaurante El Patio 11 Casemates Square Tel: 200 70822 Tucked in the corner of Casemates Square this classic fish restaurant specialises in fresh fish and Basque and Continental cuisines. Relaxed dining at the front next to the square, formal dining room to the rear - try the fresh caught specials. Open: 1pm - 4pm, 8.30pm - 11pm Closed all day Sunday (plus Saturdays during August). The Mexican Grill and Bar Unit 2B The Tower, Marina Bay Tel: 200 46668 14 on the Quay Brand new to Gibraltar and already proving popular, The Unit 14, Queensway Quay Tel: 200 43731 Mexican Grill and Bar serves all the favourite Mexican The latest addition to the beautiful Queensway Quay dishes from Nachos, Quesadillas and Chimichangas marina, 14 on the Quay is open for lunch, afternoon tea, (rolled flour tortilla with spicy chicken, chilli beef or cocktails and dinner. The fine dining includes lobsters vegetables, deep fried, served with Mexican rice and fresh from the tank, and the setting with its spectacular salad and guacamole, salsa or sour cream), to Burritos sunsets is perfect. (like Chimichangas but oven baked), El Gringos Chilli Open: 12.30 - 11pm (last orders 10.45pm) con Carne, or Cheese Holy Mole Enchiladas. Don’t forget Big Eat Homemade Burgers (5 to choose from) and from Gauchos the grill barbecue combos, steaks and chicken. Salads Waterport Casemates Tel: 200 59700 and sides to order. Decorated is warm Mexican colours Nestled just next to Waterport roundabout within the city with comfortable seating in the no-smoking interior or walls. Opened by renowned local restaurateur André of outside on the enclosed and heated patio, great for a the Tunnel fame, Gauchos offers some interesting dishes fun night out. with a tempting South American Gaucho theme. Try Open: lunch and dinner 12 noon to late
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Thyme Restaurant 5 Cornwall’s Lane. Tel: 200 49199 Email: thymegib@hotmail.com Open for 5 years, this modern wine bar serves refreshing cocktails and a wide range of New World and European wines in a cool lively atmosphere, and on the 1st floor above is the restaurant serving bistro cuisine with a menu featuring dishes from all over the world. Try one of these dishes from the wide selection: starters include Buffalo Mozzarella, Plum Tomato, Grilled Chilli & Landcress Salad, Basil Oil & Balsamic; Crab & Coriander Spring Roll, String Hopper Noodle Salad, Cucumber & Chilli Salsa; Steamed Mussels flavoured with ginger, Lemon Grass, Chilli & Coconut Milk; try main courses such as Grilled Salmon Darne, Crisp Pancetta, Thai Spiced Lentils, Cool Mint Yoghurt Dressing; Confit of Lamb Shoulder Shank, Warm Couscous Salad, Chickpea & Coriander Salsa, Onion & Sultana Chutney; or Open Ravioli of Slow Roast Squash, Basil & Ricotta, Roast Garlic Cream Sauce. Everything made on the premises using only the best, fresh ingredients. Two seperate dining rooms - smoking and non smoking. Menu changed seasonally, daily specials. Open 7 days a week. Closed Saturday lunchtimes. The Waterfront Queensway Quay Marina Tel: 200 45666 The Waterfront is a very popular restaurant located right on the quayside at Queensway Quay Marina. There are different areas for drinks, the main restaurant (with mezanine level seating), a large covered terrace with chandeliers and a quayside open terrace. The food is served in hearty portions and includes starters of grilled goat’s cheese, crab with lemon mayonnaise, moules mariniere, and prawn and lobster salad. There is a barbecue in the summer month and grills which include 8oz fillet steaks. Favourites are pan fried chicken with wild mushrooms and Madeira sauce, beef and ale pie with a puff pastry lid, and whole lamb shoulder. Fish dishes from grilled swordfish to salmon and crayfish ravioli, and vegetarian dishes such as mushroom stroganoff, and vegetable wellington sit alongside the menu from the Orient which includes Madras chicken or vegetables, chicken tikka masala, and crispy duck with pancakes and cucumber. Open: 7 days a week from 9am to late.
informaleating Al Baraka Take-away Queensway Quay. Tel: 200 46993 Take-away and restaurant. Tasty Middle Eastern food including falafels and kebabs plus Indian specialities. Large covered terrace to the side of Queensway Quay with marina views. Open: 7 days a week from 10am to 12 midnight. Amar’s Bakery & Coffee Shop 1a Convent Place (opp. The Convent). Tel: 200 73516 Amar’s Coffee Shop and Bakery is just opposite the Convent, where it serves up a wide range of light lunch options. There’s jacket potatoes, fish & chips, pasta dishes with different sauces, burekas, pizzas, quiche, sandwiches, bagels, various salads and tortilla. All the food is made on the premises and the menu is fully Kosher. Bakery serves breads and bagels etc. Open: Monday to Friday from 8.30am. The Barbary Ape Boyd Street (near Cable Car) Tel: 200 44380 A restaurant situated right near the Cable Car is the ideal place to have lunch with perfect view of the Rock. With local delicacies such as albondigas, calamares, and boquerones offered as raciones or tapas; and various options for main courses such as fish & chips, steak, burgers, sandwiches and salads, there is something for everyone on this menu including good Moroccan specialities. Birdie Cafe/Restaurant No 16 Watergardens II. Tel: 200 72885 Owned by David, previously of the Hong Kong restaurant, this golf themed cafe/restaurant now serves
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snacks such as samosas, bhajias, and pakoras to lamb, chicken and fish dishes with sauces such as korma, tikka masala, bhuna, do piaza... in fact all you would expect from an Indian cuisine take-away. Large vegetarian selection. Halal food is available, as is outside catering for parties and meetings. Sunday specials include all Mumbai favourites such as Dosa and Choley Bhature. Open: 7 days a week 11am to 3pm, 6pm until late.
all the Hong Kong favourites. Everything from Wan Ton Soup, Chicken Noodle Soup, Butterfly Prawns, Mix Veg Singapore Noodles, Pork Balls Sweetand Sour, and King Prawn Curry to Fish in Ginger Spring Onion Sauce, Mixed Chicken and Pork with Cashew Nuts, and Beef in Oyster Sauce. If you liked the Hong Kong, you’ll love this friendly little place. Full take-away available. Open: Monday-Friday 10am-3pm, 6.30pm-11, Saturday and Sunday 6.30pm - 11.30pm.
Mumtaz Indian Cuisine Take-away 20 Cornwall’s Lane Tel: 200 4457 Good Indian take-away service serving all the favourites from masala naan and spinach bhajia to lamb biryani, chicken tikka masala, king prawn korma and tandoori chicken kebab roll. Sauces and vegetarian dishes plus speciality dishes each Sunday (all dishes reasonably priced). Open: 7 days a week 11-3, 6-late.
Buddies Pasta Casa 15 Cannon Lane. Tel: 200 40627 Tasty Italian specials in pleasant ambience. Large selection of starters from garlic bread to calamari. Main courses include fettuccine de formaggio, spaghetti alla carbonara, fusilli al salmone, and entrecote al whisky to name a few. Tasty desserts and variety of wines. Open: Monday - Wednesday 10am - 5pm, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am-4pm and 7pm-midnight. Fresh 5 Waterport Plaza (Public Market) Tel: 200 52611 By day Fresh is a sandwich bar serving all sort of delicious food from made-to-order sandwiches and hot and cold drinks to baguettes, wraps, salads, toasties and soups. Open early for coffees and toast. By night, (from 4.30pm) Fresh transforms into a cosy lounge bar with free tapas on a Friday from 5pm-7pm and happy hours daily from 7-9pm. Decorated for relaxation, this is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink and some conversation. As if this isn’t enough Fresh offers outside catering for private parties, at home, or at the office, and you can book Fresh for private parties in the evenings. Open: 8am-midnight Mon - Thurs, 8am-1am Fridays, 9am-1am Saturdays, closed Sundays. Garcia’s Take-Away Glacis Estate. Tel: 200 71992 Open 7 days a week this good take-away also does home deliveries of tasty fish and chips, hamburgers, kebabs, donner kebabs and much much more. Make sure you have their number handy for a night in without the hassle of cooking! Get Joost 248 Main Street & Casemates. Tel/Fax: 200 76699 Smoothies are vitamin packed super-food and increasingly popular for the health concious. Get Joost makes delicious fresh fruit juices and smoothies made from natural ingredients which are a meal in a cup. The top five smoothies they sell are wild strawberry; breakie on the run; energy blast; raspberry ice; and tropical surrender. Tel/Fax: 200 76699 for delivery. Open: 8-7 Monday -Friday, 10-7 Saturday, 10-6 Sunday. Get Stuffed Marina Bay. Tel: 200 42006 Take-away, sandwich bar and hot food. Serving all homemade sandwiches, salads, quiches, pasta, pies, muffins, plus hot and cold drinks and smoothies and a different special every day. Outside catering for corporate parties. Open: 8am - 6pm Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm Sat.
Just A Nibble 1st Flr International Commercial Ctr. Tel: 200 78052 Full licensed cafe serving English breakfast, vast range of toasties, rolls, and other snacks. Meals include, Bob’s famous chicken curry/chilli con carne, and a great new range of pies (from Bob’s chicken and leek to steak and kidney plus a whole range of tasty alternatives) plus all the old favourites; jacket spuds, burgers, hot dogs, fish and chips, and daily specials. Ideal meeting place. Open: Monday - Saturday from 9am. Just Desserts 1st Floor ICC Tel: 200 48014 Comfortable bright, airy cafe serving vegetarian and nonvegetarian cuisine from breakfast and lunch to afternoon tea. Homemade desserts a speciality. Eat-in or takeaway at sensible prices. Outside catering. Open: 8am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday. Khan’s Indian Cuisine Unit 7-8, Watergardens. Tel: 200 50015 Eat-in or take-away at this traditional Indian eatery. Everything from onion bhajia and green pepperpakora to chicken tikka, tandoori king prawns, Khan’s special fish curry, chicken jalfrezi, lamb rogan josh, naan bread, rices, vegetable dishes and everything in between! Many new dishes added to the menu, plus specialities every Sunday. Maillo Take Away Unit F5A 1st Floor ICC Tel: 54002598 Homemade Spanish food is available at this cafe and take away in the International Commercial Centre near Casemates. Everything from sandwiches and panini, to soups, fish, salads, and mixed platters with pork and chicken options. Maillo will also cook for summer picnics, and they make some great desserts. Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Mumbai Curry House Unit 1.0.02 Ground Floor, Block 1 Eurotowers Tel: 200 73711 Home delivery: 50022/33 Good Indian cuisine for eating in or taking away, from
Munchies Cafe 24 Main Street. Tel: 200 43840 Fax: 200 42390 A great sandwich bar/cafe offering an unusual range of sandwiches on white or granary bread, plus salads, baguettes, soups, desserts, homemade ice-cream and hot/cold drinks. Business lunches, parties and kids parties also catered for (for party and office platters phone or fax order by 5.30pm day before - minium orders for delivery £12). Open: Monday - Friday 8.30-7, Sat 9 - 4, Closed Sun. Pusser’s Landing Ocean Village Promenade. Tel: 216 22162 Straight from the BVI, home of Pusser’s Rum, Pusser’s Landing has opened at Ocean Village and offers a wide range of Caribbean food and drinks. From Crab Cakes to Jerk Chicken Salad, Jamaican escoveitche Flying Fish and Bajan herb grilled Mahi Mahi imported especially from the Caribbean. The traditional burgers and sandwiches with a Caribbean twist are also on offer, plus a Dockside Grill selection of steaks, ribs and rack of lamb with different sauces as an option. And vegeterians need not worry, there’s plenty of offer such as Cap’n Danny’s Veggie Pastry Delight. A special mention must go to the different cocktails on offer, made with Pusser’s Rum, the Cherry Bomb and the different Martinis are definitely a selling point. Open: 10am till late, 7 days a week Sacarello Coffee Co. 57 Irish Town. Tel: 200 70625 Converted coffee warehouse, ideal for coffee, homemade cakes/afternoon tea, plus menu including excellent salad bar, specials of the day and dishes such as lasagne, steak and mushroom Guinness pie, hot chicken salad, toasties, club sandwich and baked potatoes. Art exhibitions. Available for parties and functions in the evenings. Open: 9am-7.30pm Mon-Fri. 9am-3pm Saturdays Smith’s Fish & Chips 295 Main Street. Tel: 200 74254 Traditional British fish and chip shop with tables/seating available or take-away wrapped in newspaper. Menu: Cod, haddock or plaice in batter, Cornish pasties, mushy peas etc. Also curries, omlettes, burgers.
Award winning breakfasts from 7.30am Great meals & snacks all day Evening Steak House menu Med Golf Clubhouse Tottenham Hotspur HQ Parliament Lane Tel: 200 75924 To advertise in The Gibraltar Magazine call
200 77748
Indian Cuisine to Eat In or Take Away Unit 1.0.02 Grnd Flr, Block 1 Eurotowers Tel: 200 73711
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Open: 8am-6pm Monday-Friday. Breakfast from 8. Located: Main Street opposite the Convent. Solo Express Ground Floor, International Commercial Centre Solo Express, located right next to Pizza Hut, serves a good variety of salads and baguettes (white, brown & ciabatta) filled with a wide deli selection of things such as roast chicken; smoked salmon & mascapone; ham, cheese and coleslaw; or hummous, avocado and roasted red pepper. The salads are fresh and tasty and include Greek, Waldorf, cous cous, tuna pasta, etc and are great value. Jacket potatoes, quiches, tea, coffee etc plus cakes (such as flapjacks and muffins) are also available throughout the day. Eat-in available. Soups in winter months. Free Wifi. The Tasty Bite 59a Irish Town. Tel: 200 78220 Fax: 200 74321 Tasty Bite has one of the biggest take-away menus around with home cooked meats, filled baguettes, burgers, chicken, kebabs and everything else you can think of! Open: Monday - Saturday. The Terrace WaterportWharf Right next to Gauchos and part of the same team, The Terrace is an outdoor cafe/eatery which serves all day breakfast, baguettes, toasties, wraps, salads, jackets, baguette pizzas plus The Ultimate Grill — fresh food grilled on a sword! Everything from Argentine beef, to Tandoori specialities. The Terrace is set against the old city walls and has a large wooden bar serving drinks and coffees all day — a great place for a snack or something more substantial. Open: 10am-late Time Out Café Bar 106 Eurotowers, Europort Rd Tel: 200 76044 Delicious food from full English breakfast to wraps, jackets, baguettes and sandwiches, plus main courses from fish and chips to banger & mash. Take-away service. Private functions. Full sports coverage on 3 screens.
bars&pubs All Sports Bar 4 Cornwall’s Lane Tel: 200 59997 This pub is geared up to televised sporting events when top sports are on TV, and when they are not there is always someone around to talk sports with. It’s not just for football fans either, and not just for one team — hung around the bar are flags from all the major teams and supporters of the smaller sides are also made very welcome. Gaming machines. Terrace seating available. Open: 11am-midnight Sun-Thurs, 11am -1am Fri/Sat. All’s Well Grand Casemates Square. Tel: 200 72987 Traditional pub in fashionable Casemates area. Named for the 18th century practice of locking the Gates to the city at night when the guard announced ‘All’s Well’ before handing the keys to the watch. All’s Well serves Bass beers, wine and spirits plus pub fare. English breakfast served all day, hot meals such as pork in mushroom sauce, sausage & mash, cod and chips and steak & ale pie are complimented by a range of salads and filled jacket potatoes. Large terrace. Karaoke every Monday and Wednesday until late. Free tapas on a Friday 7pm. The Cannon Bar 27 Cannon Lane. Tel: 200 77288 Jane is still at the Cannon Bar — over 20 years now! Fish
and chips voted the best in Gib by Lonely Planet. Terrace just off Main Street. Located between Marks & Spencer and the Cathedral. The Gibraltar Arms 184 Main St. Tel: 200 72133 www.gibraltararms.gi Good food served all day at this typical pub right on Main Street. Everything from all day breakfast to Irish fillet steak roll, burritos, and the popular fresh local mussels. Draught lager, bitter, cider and Murphys plus free WiFi. Terrace seating right on Main Street to watch the world go by. Open: from 8am (10am Sundays) until late. The Horseshoe 193 Main Street. Tel: 200 77444 Right in the centre of town, the Horseshoe is a popular, busy bar. Good menu from full English breakfast, to burgers/mixed grills. Curry and chilli specials on Sunday. Open: 9am to late, Sunday 10am - late. Facilities: Main Street terrace. Lord Nelson Bar Brasserie 10 Casemates Sq. Tel: 200 50009 www.lordnelson.gi E-mail: reservations@lordnelson.gi Attractive bar/brasserie in historic Casemates building. Done out to respresent Nelson’s ship with cloud and sky ceiling crossed with beams and sails. Spacious terrace Menu: Starter & snacks include fresh local mussels, blue cheese and rocket bruschetta, Lordy’s potato skins, spicy chicken wings and calamares. Main courses cover a range from chilli con carne and chicken and mushroom pie, to crispy aromatic duck burrito and British fish and chips. Try one of the salads or Nelson’s platters. Jacket potatoes, burgers and children’s menu. Credit cards accepted. Live music Venue of the Year, with live music on stage every night. Free Wifi. Open: from 10am till very late. Pickwicks Governor’s Parade. Tel: 200 76488 Run by well-known friendly face, Mandy, this small pub with a large terrace is situated in Governor’s Parade away from the traffic and safe for all the family. Good food available including the best freshly made sandwiches and jacket potatoes, salads and burgers. Open: Mon - Fri from 9.30am Location: turn off Main St at Marks & Spencer, go up steps to Governor’s Parade (opposite the Elliot Hotel). The Pig and Whistle Unit 18, Watergardens. Tel: 200 76167 A comfortable pleasant little pub with pool table and terrace on the quayside. Big screen television for all sporting events. Open: 10-midnight (Fri-Sat 11-1am) The Quarter Deck Unit 26, Block 2 Watergardens Tel: 200 44520 Located opposite Ocean Village, the Quarterdeck is a busy little pub with terrace seating and food served all day. Breakfasts start at just £2.70 and a hearty Sunday lunch (£4.95) is served from 1.30pm. Seating outside overlooking Ocean Village. Open: 9am to late. Royal Calpe 176 Main Street, Gibraltar Tel: 200 75890 Email: royalcalpe@gibtelecom.net Named after Gibraltar’s Royal Calpe Hunt, the pub is situated opposite the Cathedral on Main Street. It boasts Gibraltar’s only beer garden and conservatory for a relaxing atmosphere al fresco to get away from it all or for that private function. Good food from traditional pub fare to salads is available throughout the day. Wide selection of draught beer and cider.
The Quarter Deck Kitchen open all day Breakfast from £2.70 Sunday Lunch served from 1.30pm £4.95 open 9am till late opp. Ocean Village, Watergardens Tel: 200 44520
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The Star Bar Parliament Lane. Tel: 200 75924 Reputedly the oldest bar in Gib, this small cosy bar opens early for breakfast (English or toast & cereal). Lunch/ evening menu includes fillet steak, fish and chips and salads. Home of Med Golf and Tottenham Hotspur FC supporters club. Facilities: Outside seating. Open: from 7am every day. Located: first right off Main St (walking from N to S). The Three Owls Irish Town The Three Owls is a traditional bar serving best of English beers. Three separate bars/floors: ground floor — big screen tv, pool table, poker machines, games machines, bar — open from 10.30am daily. First floor ‘Hoots’ — 2 match pool tables, poker machines, darts board, games machine, bar — open from 1pm daily. Second Floor ‘Nest’ — American pool table, poker machine, games machine, card table, bar — open from 5pm daily. The Three Roses Governor’s Street. Tel: 200 51614 Now under the management of Peter and Ian, previously of the Coach & Horses, this bar is fully air-conditioned with 3 plasma TVs and pool table. Happy hours Mon-Fri 5-6pm. Home of the Esteporkers Golf Society. Open: 7 days. Mon-Sat from 11am, Sun from midday. Wembley Bar 10 South Barrack Ramp. Tel: 200 78004 Popular bar for hot and cold bar snacks, function room, in south district. Fridays 10am for breakfast. Air conditioned. The home of the Real Madrid Supporter’s Club. Open: 11am - midnight Sunday - Thursday, 10am - 1am Friday, 11am - 1am Saturdays.
acrosstheborder The Taste Indian Restaurant Avda. del Ejercito, esq. Calle Gibraltar, La Linea Tel: 00 34 856 12 29 18 / 00 34 626 88 40 38 Very good Indian restaurant convenient walk from the frontier. All the favourites from chicken Madras to lamb channa, and king prawn vindaloo. Specialities include Chicken Tikka Krahi (chicken tikka topped with fresh chillies, herbs and spices), Bhindi Ghost (lamb with okra in a spicy sauce), and Special Mixed Balti. Lots of vegetable dishes, bread and rices. Pleasant service. Open: every day 5pm-late, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 1pm-late. Located: On the corner of Plaza de la Constitucion, which is about 400m straight across from frontier. The Dog & Duck Next to Plaza de Contitucion, La Linea Tel: 00 34 956171375 Little pub on the square serving British beers at 3 euros a pint. Pleasant sun terrace and all live sporting events shown. Open: 3pm-late Mon - Fri, 1pm - late Sat & Sun. Located: 400m straight across from frontier (next to Taste Indian Restaurant). Liverpool Bar 4 Avenida España. Tel: 00 34 956767770 UK beers served in this little pub along with full English breakfast and Sunday lunches, plus much more in a friendly atmosphere. Open: 7 days a week 10am - late Located: 400m straight across from frontier.
THE FIRST & LAST PUBS IN SPAIN ALL BRITISH BEERS E3.00 A PINT ~ sun terrace ~ ~ live sports ~ next to the Plaza de Constitucion & the Taste Indian Restaurant Tel: 00 34 956171375
Liverpool Bar open 7 days a week 10-late
UK BEERS FUll English Breakfast + much more Avenida España No 4 (400m from the Frontier) Tel: 00 34 956767770
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food&drink
by Brian McCann
thyme for great food “Gibraltar is now as good a place as anywhere to eat out; with a wide range of good restaurants to choose from”
~ steve clayton of thyme
Steve is passionate about inspired fine dining, and has a lot to say on the subject, particularly as it relates to Gibraltar. “When I opened Thyme restaurant in June 2003, I was determined to show other chefs that it was possible to make a success of a top class but informal restaurant,” he told me. “Many people in the business said I had no chance of it working in Gibraltar, it had to be cheap and cheerful, but five years later we are still going strong — and more to the point, others have followed my example and Gibraltar now has several excellent restaurants. That was my aim and it has been achieved. I am genuinely pleased.” Steve speaks with great sincerity; it isn’t a matter of boasting. “Those who followed my example initially have all done well and others have realised it works, and a lot of them have told me they were inspired by the success of Thyme,” he said. A head chef of many years’ experience in Gibraltar, Steve added that five years ago there were plenty of eateries which catered to the tourists and the quick-meal trade. “Lots of English breakfasts and kiddies’ menus, that sort of thing. But nowhere for that something special, that true eating experience.” He said that in all his years here he has worked with most of the local chefs, with a lot of them now head chefs of restaurants and keen to set similar standards themselves. “I am genuinely pleased that Thyme has had that effect, although it did take a long time before someone else saw the concept was working and took the plunge themselves.” He said that Thyme itself struggled for the first year, then it took off. “With Thyme and those who have followed the concept of top quality, Gibraltar is now a better place to eat,” he said; “although not cheaper. But there are plenty of places to cater for that end of the market, it’s just that now there are higher standards available too.” He is also concerned about the state of the economy. “Caterers are in for a hard ride, along with other businesses,” he said; “especially with the problems caused by the weak pound.” He said he has still maintained the same high standards, though, and is also keeping the prices
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Chef Steve Clayton PHOTO: JJ WOOD
the same — in spite of soaring costs. “You just have to be extra careful about your buying and waste; and keeping staff costs down.” He believes the government could be more positive in helping businesses, citing the recent increase in rates, water and electricity charges. “That didn’t help,” he said. “Everything is going up except people’s wages, so you have to avoid passing rising costs on to the customer for as long as possible.” He also put in a request for local people to continue supporting the Rock’s restaurants as much as they can. “If not, Gibraltar is going to lose them — and it will take a long, long time before it can build back up to the high level it is at now.” In spite of the shortage of spending money, caused directly and indirectly by the weakness of the pound, Thyme has been fully booked for Christmas parties since mid-November, and generally this lively upmarket bistro-style restaurant and cocktail bar is still popular with business people and couples due to its fusion food mix of New World and Asian recipes,
Customers are amazed by the taste; by so much flavour
skilfully combined to complement each other by chef Jeff O’Donohoe. Customers are amazed by the taste; by so much flavour. His high standards include never buying anything readymade: everything is prepared on the premises. It’s currently full for parties at weekends, though there is availability during the week and you can still eat there at any time in small groups — especially as it is one of the few places that will be open on 25th December, with a well devised menu following the Buck’s fizz reception for £55; but be sure to book as soon as possible. Perfectly served roast turkey and roast beef are on the menu as traditional-fare main courses (with the Thyme factor of unforgettable flavours) or there is oven baked john dory, or open ravioli of butternut squash. All with accompanying vegetables prepared as you might never have experienced before. Similar comments apply to the starters and desserts, finishing off with coffee and mince pies. I should point out that everything on the regular menu is what you might call real food — the chef knows the golden rule of not getting carried away with his wildest imaginings but serving instead traditional ingredients in a superior style and in a relaxed but efficient way. n Open for lunch and dinner Mondays to Fridays and for dinner on Saturdays, the restaurant Thyme is in the city centre but off the tourist trail, in Cornwall’s Lane, and the number for reservations is 200 49199.
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A ro u n d To w n .. .
a light-he arte d look at Gibralta r soc iety
Just as you’ve recovered from Christmas shopping and Christmas pud and you’re eyeing up the Christmas lights and Christmas ornaments thinking about putting them away as the last of the needles drops off the tree, it’s time to celebrate the New Year, 2009! “Happy New Year!” is the greeting we will say and hear for at least the first couple of weeks as 2009 gets under way. But there is still the 3 kings cavalcade procession along Main Street to look forward to on 5th January as the last celebration of the festive season, then for Scots on the Rock there is the big Burns’ Night supper on 25th January to add a bit of sparkle to the end of January. And for those who still fancy celebrating the Chinese year of the Ox starts on 26th January. MI6 Eat Your Heart Out... Gibraltar Customs officers were treated recently to the sight of Gibraltar’s health promotions officer, Jason Easter, looking decidedly queasy! Jason and his wife were just returning from the UK when they reached customs and Jason’s wife asked him where the new laptop was? He thought she was just joking then the realisation hit - they’d left the shiny new Mac laptop at the X-Ray machine in Gatwick! Luckily they managed to find the missing item and get it couriered out — it’s like something from the pages of MI6. Betting on an Old Friend Martin the Banker has welched on a deal. He promised in a rash moment over a glass or two of vino in Cafe Solo to have his moustache shaved off for charity — the first time his naked face would have been seen for 30 years. However, come the glorious day he got cold feet and said he just couldn’t let go of his ‘old friend’ but would put the money in to charity himself! Just think of the money he could have saved on conditioner... Celebrities Bid Farewell Some amazing superstars appeared at Celebrity Wine Bar last month... Did you see them? They were there to bid ‘au revoir’ to Melissa Victor who has left the Rock for a new career in Blighty. Highlights of the event were definitely Mel B (hello Mike from BFBS!), Madonna and a certain PTI dressed as both a vicar and a tart! Amongst others joining the throng were Marilyn Monroe, Mr Muscle, Minnie Mouse, Morticia, Ming the Merciless, Marge Simpson, the Mario Brothers and various Mafiosa, Molls and Maids who enjoyed a night of mayhem and madness to send Melissa off in style at the ‘M’ themed fancy dress party. Jason from the Lord Nelson offered his own personal tribute by turning up dressed as Melissa herself! Can you spot the difference in the pic (left, top)? Another leaving do in December was for Sylvia Balloqui’s retirement (right). Sylvia, who has been working for Finsbury Trust for nearly 20 years, took advantage of her new found freedom by leaving for Australia (where her daughter lives) for a very well deserved two month holiday! We wish Sylvia a long and happy retirement...
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Photos this page — Melissa Victor’s leaving do
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • MARCH 2007 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
7/12/08 11:25:12
No Flies on Willie Is it true Willie Serfaty has taken to keeping carniverous plants? Well he put in a serious bid for an interesting array at the recent Rotary silent auction at the Garrison Library and came out a winner, carrying off his prize of fly munchers. The auction itself raised over £2,500.00 for charity and was a huge success.
Sylvia with her family
Frozen Festivities Gibraltar Magazine contributor Dave Wood will be starting his new job with STM Fidecs this month, and 2009 also marks 20 years since he moved to these parts. It was on 1st January 1989 that Dave and wife, Anita, decided to make the move after sharing a New Year’s Day celebratory bottle of wine in freezing Huddersfield! (Let’s hope Casemates Square is a wee bit warmer for them this year!). Open on Time! After a marathon shop fitout — from receiving the keys on Tuesday morning to opening Farrington Contemporary the following Tuesday — Isla (above) must certainly have smashed a couple of records for meeting deadlines, and possibly left a couple of builders needing a long holiday. But the doors opened on time for Farrington’s first two preview evenings held at the end of November and the public mingled with the artists and viewed (and bought!) exhibits of art, sculpture and jewellery while sipping champagne. Business is now in full swing with some stunning work on display, pop in to see what’s on offer. Wishes... Well that’s it for this month. Have your best year yet in 2009 from all at The Gibraltar Magazine! See you on Main Street.
Enjoying the silent auction GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • MARCH 2007 GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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Always check the label!
Willie and the fly munchers
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clubs&activities Arts & Crafts The Arts Centre, Prince Edward’s Rd. Art classes for children (5-6pm Mon, 5-6.30pm Tues, 5-7pm Thurs), adults (Mon - Tues 6.30pm-8pm, Wed 6.30pm-8.30pm, life painting Wed 7pm-9pm). Tel: 200 79788. The Fine Arts Association Gallery 1st Floor above Gibraltar Crystal, Casemates. Open 11am-2pm, 4-6pm Mon - Fri, Sat 11am - 2pm. Arts & Crafts Gallery (next door) opens Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5pm (summer) -6pm (winter), Sat 9.30am - 3pm. The Poetry Society meets on 20th of each month. Tel: Audrey Batty on 200 44355 . Board Games Chess Club meets in Studio 1, John Mackintosh Hall 8-10.30pm Tues. The Gibraltar Scrabble Club meet John Mackintosh Hall Mondays. Bank holidays changed to Thursday same week. 7pm-11pm All welcome. Tel: 200 73660 or 200 75995. The Subbuteo Club meets Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall 7.30 - 11pm. Dance Modern & Latin American Sequence Dancing Mondays Catholic Community Centre 8.30pm (beginners 7.30). Over 15s welcome. www.gibnynex.gi/inst/cccseqdance/ Old & Modern Sequence Dancing sessions at the Catholic Community Centre at 8pm, beginners at 7.30pm, Wednesday. The DSA Old & Modern Sequence Dancing sessions at Central Hall Fridays 8pm, beginners 7.30pm. Tel: 200 78282 or e-mail manvio@gibraltar.gi Everybody welcome. Senior Citizens Teatime Dances at The Youth Centre, Line Wall Rd on Mondays 2 - 5.30pm. All senior citizens welcome for coffee, tea and biscuits. Entrance free. Classical Ballet classes for children 4+, Spanish dance and hip-hop at Liza School of Dance, 3rd floor, Methodist Church, 297/299 Main St. Classes Weds & Fri from 6pm at Chiltern Court (4Cs). Tel: 58111000. Hip Hop classes for adults Mondays 6.15pm to 7.15pm, Hip Hop classes for boys and girls Tuesdays 4.15pm to 5.15 - Urban Dance, Jumpers Dance Studio The Gibraltar Pointes Dance School - R.A.D ballet, I.S.T.D modern and tap, jazz and contempory dance. Unit 19F Europa Business Centre. Contact Cheryll Bossino and Sabina Pitaluga at Studio: 200 45145, Home: 200 51187/ 200 46400. History & Heritage The Gibraltar Heritage Trust Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Sq. Tel: 200 42844. The Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association Dedicated to preservation of Rock’s transport/motoring heritage. Assists members in restoration / maintenance of classic vehicles. Members/vehicles meet 1st Sunday of month, Morrison’s car park from 10am. New members welcome. Tel: 200 44643. Music The Gibraltar Music Centre Trust Complete spectrum of instrument learning strings drums etc. Theory lessons- Five days a week 4pm-9pm. Tel: 200 75558 for details. The Gibraltar National Choir and Gibraltar Junior National Choir rehearse on Monday & Thursday 7.30 - 9pm. New singers of all ages welcome. Tel: Lili 200 40035, 54006727 St Andrew ’s Music Academy Musical Monsters Club, musical workshops. Group musical activities for kids 3-7 years. Singing, rhythmic games etc. Tel: 200 42690 email: samagib@hotmail.com Outdoor Activities The Calpe Ramblers This group walks on last Sunday each month, except July and August. Meeting place is the Spanish side of the frontier 8am just to the right of and opposite the Aduana vehicle exit. For any information contact co-ordinators Ray Murphy 200 71956 or John Murphy 200 74645. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an exciting self-development Programme available to all young people worldwide equipping them with life skills to make a difference to themselves, their communities and the world. To date over 5 million young people from over 100 countries have been motivated to undertake a variety of voluntary and challenging ac-
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Don’t be bored... do something fun! tivities. Contact Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Montagu Bastion, Line Wall Road, Gibraltar Tel: 200 59818 Reg. Charity No: 61 Quizzes Cannon Bar quizzes are held on Tuesdays starting with a warm up, then two other quizzes, including a theme quiz. Starts at 8.30pm, all welcome and prizes are given. Free entrance but a donation to charity is requested. Tapas served after the quiz. The Tunnel in Casemates has a pub quiz and entertainment on Sunday nights. Social Clubs Scots on the Rock: Any Scots visiting the Rock can contact Charles Polson (Tel: 200 78142) for assistance or information. Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (Gibraltar Province) meets RAOB Club, Jumpers Bastion on these days: Provincial Grand Lodge, 1st Monday/month, 8pm. Executive Meeting, last Mon/month 7pm. Knights Chapter, 2nd Mon/month 7.30pm. Examining Council, 3rd Mon/month 7pm. William Tilley 2371, Thurs 8pm. Buena Vista 9975, Weds (fortnightly) 7pm. Por Favor 9444, Weds (fortnightly) 7pm. Farewell 10001, Tues 8.30pm. Goldacre 10475 (social) last Fri/month 8pm. Tuesday Ladies’ Club meets 8pm, Queensway Club first Tuesday of month. For women who enjoy making new friends. Non-profit making, proceeds donated to charity. Tel: Anne 200 43869, or Margaret 200 70816. Special Interest Clubs & Societies Gibraltar Horticultural Society meets first Thurs of month 6pm, John Mackintosh Hall. Annual Spring Flower Show, slide shows, demos on flower arrangements and outings to garden centres plus annual tour of Alameda Gardens. All welcome. The Gibraltar Photographic Society meets on Mon at around 8pm, Wellington Front. Basic courses, competitions etc. Harley Davidson Owners’ Club www. hdcgib.com UN Association of Gibraltar PO Box 599, 22a Main Street. Tel: 200 52108. Sports Supporters Clubs The Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club meet at the Star Bar, Parliament Lane, when Spurs games are televised - call prior to matches to check the game is televised. Great food for a lunch if the KO is early or an early supper if the game is later. For info call Mario on 56280000. Gibraltar Arsenal Supporters Club meet on match days at the Casino Calpe (Ground Floor). Gooners of all ages are welcome. Tel: Bill 54010681 or Dion 56619000. Websites: ClubWebsite.co.uk/ArsenalGibraltarSC or GibGooners.com Sports & Fitness Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gymnastics Association club for beginners, juniors and squad at Bayside School in evenings. Tel: 200 Angela 200 70611 or Sally 200 74661. Athletics: Gibraltar Amateur Athletics Association holds competitions throughout year for juniors, adults and veterans. Two main clubs (Calpeans 200 71807, Lourdians 200 75180) training sessions at Victoria Stadium. Badminton: Recreational badminton is available weekdays at Victoria Stadium (Tel: 200 78409 for allocations). Gibraltar Badminton Association (affiliated to IBA & EBA) has leagues and training for adults and secondary school. Tel: Ivan 200 44045 or Linda 200 74753. Basketball: Gibraltar Amateur Basketball Association (affiliated FIBA) leagues/ training for minis, passarelle, cadets, seniors and adults at a variety of levels. Tel: John 200 77253, Randy 200 40727 or Kirsty (minis) 200 49441. Billiards & Snooker: Gibraltar Billiards and Snooker Association (member IBSA) round leagues and competitions at various venues. New members welcome. Tel: Eddie 200 72142 or Peter 200 77307. Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Association (member IABA) gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome to join. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory (200 75513 w, 200 42788 h). Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association. Tel: Nigel 200 52917 or Eugene 58014000.
Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket Association (member ICC) runs leagues/competitions at Europa Point/Victoria Stadium. Junior/senior training. Tel: Tom 200 79461 or Adrian 200 44281. Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association various cycling tours. Tel: Uriel 200 79359. Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association (member WDF) mens/ladies/youth leagues/competitions.Tel: Darren 54027171 “Secretary”, Dyson “Youth Rep” 54024149, Justin “President” 54022622 Email: info@gibraltardarts.com Football: Gibraltar Football Association - leagues/competitions for all ages OctoberMay. Futsal in summer, Victoria Stadium. Tel: 200 42941 www.gfa.gi. Senior Tel: Albert 200 41515, Junior Tel: Richard 58654000, Women’s Tel: Brian 200 52299. Recreational football for over 35s Tel: Richard 200 70320. Golf: Med Golf tournaments held monthly. Tel: 200 79575 for tournament venues/dates. Gibraltar Golf Union has competitions through year, EGU handicaps. Tel: Bernie 200 78844. Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association (members FIH & EHF) high standard competitions/ training for adults and juniors. Tel: Eric 200 74156 or Peter 200 72730. Judo: Gibraltar Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and levels at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Wellington Front. Tel: Charlie 200 73116 or Peter 200 73225. Ju-jitsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion (Rosia Rd). Tel: Tony 200 79855 or club 200 47259. Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association sessions for junior/seniors, gradings and demos at Karate Clubhouse, 41H Town Range Tel: Andrew 200 48908. Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 200 75211. Netball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affiliated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year, senior / junior leagues. Tel: Moira 200 41795 or Suzette 200 41874. Petanque: Gibraltar Petanque Association plays at Giralda Gardens, Smith Dorrien Ave. New members welcome. Tel: Francis 200 70929. Pool: Gibraltar Pool Association (member EUKPF) home and away league played on Thurs through season. Tel: Linda 200 74753. Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association runs sessions for 4 years of age and upwards weekday evenings. Tel: Christine 200 74661 or 54015533. Rugby: Gibraltar Rugby Football Union training sessions for Colts (14+), seniors and veterans. Play in Andalusia 1st Division Oct - April. Tel: James 200 72185 Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association junior/senior competitive programme through season (April - Oct) Tel: RGYC 200 48847. Sea Angling: Gibraltar Federation of Sea Anglers (members FIPS-M & CIPS) Superb calendar of events with four clubs participating. Tel: Mario 200 72622 or Charlie 200 74337. Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation over 14s only. Rifle, Europa Point range (Joe 200 74973); clay pigeon, East Side (Harry 200 74354); Pistol, near Royal Naval Hospital (Fidel 200 71990). Skating: Gibraltar Skating and Xtreme Sports Association opens its Skate Park, Coaling Island, Queensway, Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, from 5pm til 8pm Saturday & Sunday, from 2pm til 5pm Thursday & Friday, closedSat 26pm. State of art ramps for Xtreme/aggressive roller blading /skate boarding. Leisure skating facilities provided within excellent rink (when not used for roller hockey training). Tel: Eric 200 70710 (after 5). Snorkelling & Spear Fishing: Over 14s welcome for snorkelling,
over 16s for spear fishing. Tel: Joseph 200 75020. Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road (members WSF & ESF). Adult/junior tournaments/ coaching. Tel: 200 44922 or 200 73260. Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Tel: Phil 200 44606, Noah’s Dive Club Tel: Leslie 200 79601, 888s Dive Club Tel: Martin 200 70944. Commercial sports diving schools also available. Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association (member FINA & LEN) opens its pool for leisure swimming Mon - Fri 7-8.45am, 12- 4pm, 8- 9pm. Junior lessons, squad for committed swimmers, water polo (Rebecca 200 72869). Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Association (members ITTA) training / playing sessions, Victoria Stadium, Tues 6-10pm and Thurs 8-11pm with coaching and league competition. Lizanne 200 45071/54020477 or Eugene 58014000. Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Association classes/gradings Tel: 200 Mari 44142. Tennis: Gibraltar Tennis Association, Sandpits Tennis Club, excellent junior development programme. Courses for adults, leagues / competitions. Tel: Frank 200 77035. Ten-Pin Bowling: Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling Association (members FIQ & WTBA) leagues at Ultra Bowl, training for juniors and squad. Tel: Gary 200 42447 or Charlie 200 71125. Triathlon: Gibraltar Triathlon Union (members ITU) Chris 200 75857 or Harvey 200 55847. Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association (members W & EVF) training, leagues, competitions for juniors/seniors. Tony 200 40478 or Elizabeth 58306000. 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 Ince’s Hall Theatre Complex, 310 Main Street E-mail: gibdrama@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 200 42237 www. geocities.com/gibdrama Trafalgar Theatre Group meet 2nd Wed of month, Garrison Library 8pm. All welcome. Theatrix: Contact Trevor and Iris on Tel: 54006176 or email theatrixgib@yahoo.co.uk
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009
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support
golf
Support Groups/ Associations Alcoholics Anonymous meet 7pm Tues and Thurs at Nazareth Hse Tel: 200 73774. A Step Forward support group for single, separated, divorced or widowed people. Meet 8pm Mondays at St Andrew’s Church. Childline Gibraltar confidential phone line for children in need. Freephone 8008 - 7 days a week 7pm - 11pm. Citizens’ Advice Bureau Open Mon-Fri 9.30-4pm. Tel: 200 40006 Email: info@ cab.gi or visit 10 Governor’s Lane. No appointment necessary, no charge. Gibraltar CAB outreach clinics at St Bernard’s Hospital every Tuesday. Advisors available at 1st floor reception, Zone 4, 9am-3pm. Info and advice is free, confidential and impartial. COPE Support group for people with Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia or Rheumatoid Arthritis. Formed to ease day-to-day challenges of individuals, families and care partner. Meetings at Catholic Community Centre Book Shop at 7.30pm first Thursday of each month. Contact Sue Reyes 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 Mon - Thur 8pm-9pm Families Anonymous Support group for relatives and friends who are concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioural problems. Meetings are held alternate Thursdays at 9pm at Nazareth House. For more details Tel: 200 70047 or 200 73465. Gibraltar Cardiac Rehabilitation and Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 8.30pm at the John Mac Hall, except for July and August. Gibraltar Dyslexia Support Group 3/8 Serfaty’s Passage Tel: 200 78509 Mobile: 54007924 website: www.gdsg.co.uk 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. Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 200 70720 Overeaters Anonymous support group of those with compulsive overeating problem. Tel: helpline for details of meetings 200 42581. Parental Support Group, helping parents and grandparents with restrictive access to their children and granchildren. Tel: Richard 200 46536, Jason 200 76618, Dominic 54019602. Psychological Support Group, PO Box 161, Nazareth House. Weekly Meetings Tuesdays at 7pm, Fridays 8pm. Tel: 200 51623. SSAFA Forces Help Gibraltar, is a national charity, to assist serving and exService personnel and their families. Tel: (5)5481. E-mail olivero@sapphirenet.gi With Dignity Gibraltar support group for separated, divorced, widowed or unattached people. Meetings Weds 9pm, Catholic Community Centre, Line Wall Rd. Outings/activities. Tel: Flor 54007181 or Marie 200 79957. Women in Need. Voluntary organisation for all victims of domestic violence. Refuge available. Tel: 200 42581 (24 hours).
Med Golf looks forward to
2009
As one of the leading golf operators along the coast for over 16 years, Med Golf has seen many ups and downs in the financial markets and is confident the Costa del Sol will still continue to attract its fair share of business during the present “credit squeeze”. They are happy visitors will continue to enjoy all the area has to offer and be able to make substantial savings with their own “price promise” where they will not be beaten by their competitors on any golf package. Med Golf members also have so This is the second year for this many things to look forward to in particular individual competition 2009 with monthly competitions of- and is a chance for every golfer to fering all the usual crystal trophies, with a weekend break for two in a Other planned golf events 5-star resort for every winner. In adinclude an Easter break dition their top ten ranking players who have competed in a minimum at Arcos Gardens, a trip to of five tournaments will be invited Ireland in May and a visit to take part in the Med Golf Masters at Valderrama on 26th September. to Portugal in November
Religious Services Bahia Tel: 200 43637 for meetings. Bethel Christian Fellowship Tel: 200 52002. 47 Queensway. Sunday service at 11am. Church of England Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Tel: 200 78377. Sung Eucharist, Sunday 10.30am. Sunday School. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Suite 21a Don House, 30-38 Main Street. Tel: 200 50433. Sundays 10am. Church of Scotland St Andrew’s, Governor’s Pde. Tel: 200 77040. Worship & Sunday School 10.30am. Bible Study
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Tues 7.30pm. Evangelical Bretheren Assembly, Queensway Quay. Sun 11am, Tues Bible Study 6pm, Thurs Prayer Meeting 6pm. Hindu Engineer’s Lane Tel: 200 42515. Jehovah’s Witness Line Wall Rd Tel: 200 50186. Jewish 10 Bomb House Lane Tel: 200 72606. Methodist 297 Main Street Gibraltar Tel/Fax 200 40870 email minister@methodist.org. gi Minister: Revd Fidel Patron. Sunday 11am Morning Worship, 8pm Evening Service. Prayer meetings Monday and Wednesday to Friday 7pm and Tuesdays
fulfil their dream of playing one of the finest golf courses in the world. Other planned golf events include an Easter break at Arcos Gardens, a trip to Ireland in May and a visit to Portugal in November. Med Golf is happy to be your playing partner in 2009 and full details on what they have to offer is on their web site www.teetimespain.com
8pm. Communion celebrated on 2nd and 4th Sunday mornings of the month, and other special occasions. Alpha Course: held Thursdays 8pm. House Groups meet for Christian fellowship, prayer and study on a regular basis Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Sunday School meets Sunday mornings alongside morning worship. Roman Catholic Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, 215 Main St Tel: 200 76688. The Cityline Church 13 Castle St Tel: 200 75755 email: citylinegib@yahoo. com. Meeting: Tues 8pm, Sundays 11am.
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property directory
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propertysales
SALES / RENTALS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & Maintenance Furniture Packages
propertyservices
info@gbpropertymanagement.com www.gbpropertymanagement.com Tel: 00 34 667 465 890 00 34 667 465 891
299a Main Street Tel: 200 71131 Email: info@bfagib.com www.bfagib.com
S.LEVY
M.B.E., E.D., J.P., F.R.I.C.S., F.R.S.H.
AUCTIONEER, ESTATE AGENT & VALUER
For Property Advice, Contact Us 3 Convent Place Tel: 200 77789 or 200 42818 Fax: 200 42527 Email: slevy@gibraltar.gi
propertyservices Sheet Metal Works Ventilation Ductwork Stainless Steel Cabinets, Canopies Shelves etc Tel: 200 79732 Fax: 40415 COLD-AIRE ENGINEERING Unit No. 28 The New Harbours
Unit F2A ICC, Gibraltar Tel: 200 49494 email: info@propertyworld.gi
www.propertyworld.gi
Airconditioning & Ventilation Design, Installation & Maintenance Tel: 200 79732 Fax: 200 40415 Unit No. 28 The New Harbours
COLD-AIRE ENGINEERING
M.J. Electrical & Fire Services UK fully qualified electricians
Electrical • Security • Fire Alarms from a blown fuse to a re-wire No call out charge Martin Joyce Tel: 54026717 or 200 44664
Manufacturers & Suppliers of HIGH PRESSURE HOSES AND ACCESSORIES
• Electrical Contractors • Security & Fire Alarm Systems • Repairs to Electrical Machinery & Equipment
Visit us at 43 Harbours Deck, New Harbours, Gibraltar Call us on 200 50337 email: shop@jjhire.com or see our website: www.jjhire.com
charteredsurveyors
For all your home painting & decorating needs ... all under one roof! 60 Devil’s Tower Road, Gibraltar. Tel: 200 70100 Fax: 200 76018 Email: jratcliffe@gibtelecom.net
• Property Advice • Valuations • Rent Reviews •Development •Consultancy Tel: 200 46579 gibsurv@nicholasgale.com
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009 June 2004
7/12/08 11:52:47
property directory constructionservices
marineservices
HAYMILLS
Haymills (Gibraltar) Ltd
Unit F17 Europa Business Centre PO Box 476, Gibraltar Tel: 200 73119 Fax: 200 45008 E-mail: portman@gibtelecom.net
Limited
Builders • Civil Engineers Roofing Specialists • Electrical Contractors 4 Shackleton Road Tel: 200 46887 Gibraltar Fax: 200 46089
homes&interiors
CIAP (CONSTRUCTION) LTD
Curtain Makers Home Interiors Fabrics Bedding
BUILDERS MERCHANTS GIBRALTAR 325a Main St. Tel: 200 40787 Fax: 200 40799 80b Devil’s Tower Rd. 104-106 Irish Town Tel: 200 40746 Tel: 200 75220
Replacement LED bulbs
Hire & Sale of Portable Cabin Units (Office, Toilet Units etc)
We sell LED a wide range of lighting
General Suppliers
buy now at
Portman Ltd
www.gibstainless.com
We manufacture and fit aluminium windows, doors, blinds, shutters, mosquito nettings, UPVC windows, glaziers and also bathroom and shower screens at reasonable prices. For a Free Estimate Call Us
TARIK
Welding & Custom Fabrication
Tel: 200 45955 Fax: 200 45955 Mobile: 58641000
Repairs & Chandlery Sheppard’s Chandlery, M. Sheppard & Co. Ltd Waterport, Gibraltar. Tel: 200 77183 • 200 42535
The Strait’s only stockists for 316 marine grade stainless steel
WINDOWS
• General Surfacing • Building • Building Renovations • Demolition • Painting & Decorating • Roadworks • Civil Engineering • Asphalt/Aggregate supplier • Comprehensive Plant Holding For prompt & competitively priced tenders contact AMCO P.O. Box 382 Tel: 200 40840 Fax: 200 40841
19/2 Governor’s Parade, Gibraltar Tel: 200 74018
25Watergardens Block 5, Gibraltar Tel Mike: 200 52304 Mobile: 54015406 Spain 00 34 628445182 Email: metelmicky@hotmail.com
Now at 94 Harbours Walk New Harbours Tel: 200 40690 Fax: 200 74797 Email: tony.harris@haymills.com Website: www.haymills.com
transportservices
Full Bunkering & Yacht Refuelling Service Spain: 15/5a Virgen del Carmen Algeciras (Cadiz), Spain Tel/Fax: 34 56 630418 After Hrs: Gib 200 70982
y
Gibraltar: Tel: (350) 200 72836 Fax: (350) 200 72861 Cables: TARIK GIB TLX: 2343 TRATAR
ACHT SCENE SAILORS’ GUIDE
on sale at £5.00 at chandleries & bookshops
NOW TAKING ORDERS FOR 2009
open
Bring your own fabric or choose from our The Fashion House Ltd 85 Governor’s Street. Tel: 200 52938 E-mail: thefashionhouse@gibtelecom.net Fax: 200 52988
STARTER MOTORS & ALTERNATORS Repairs, Reconditioning, Exchange or Brand New
THE GIBRALTAR MARITIME SERVICES HANDBOOK 2008 edition
Now on sale at Gibraltar Bookshops
AUTOELECTRICAL SERVICES Unit 25 Rear of Block 5, Watergardens. Tel: 200 47000 Mobile: 58850000
18 Town Range Tel: 200 73036 Office & Workshop G17 Europa Business Ctr. Tel/Fax: 20042603
Don’t miss May 2009’s Property & Interiors Issue of The Gibraltar Magazine 39-41 City Mill Lane, Gibraltar Tel: 200 78105 Fax: 200 42510
marineservices
• Electrical Contractors • Security & Fire Alarm Systems • Repairs to Electrical Machinery & Equipment
wastemanagement Environment and Waste Management Service
Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Services Domestic + Industrial • Electrical • Mechanical • Plumbing • Air-Conditioning 94 Harbour’s Walk, New Harbours Tel: 200 48774 Fax: 200 45249
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Furnishing Fabrics, Wallpapers, Furniture, Wood Floorings, Carpets & Rugs 4 King’s Yard Lane Tel: 200 74445 Fax: 200 76353
E.W.M.S. R25B, Ragged Staff Wharf, Queensway Quay, PO Box 4, Gibraltar Tel: 200 44220 Fax: 200 44221 E-mail: ewmsgib@gibtelecom.net
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information
A
dmission 9.30am to 7pm by tickets (includes entrance to sites within the Park - St. Michael’s Cave, Monkey’s Den, Great Siege Tunnels, Military Heritage Centre, ‘A City Under Siege’ Exhibition and Moorish Castle). (Facilities closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.) Adults £7/ Children 5-12 years: £4, Children age 4 and under free, vehicles £1.50. Private vehicles may be restricted at certain times and it’s advisable to take a Rock Tour by taxi/mini bus. The Natural History & Heritage Park is also reached by cable car (leaves Grand Parade 9.30am-5.15pm Mon-Sun. Last cable down: 5.45pm).
T
he flora and fauna on the Upper Rock are considered to be of great conservational value. It’s a perfect place for birdwatchers, as migratory species use Gibraltar as the shortest crossing between Europe and Africa, but botanists will also be interested to see over 600 species of flowering plants, including some unique to Gibraltar. Watch out for colourful lizards, non-venemous Horseshoe Whipsnakes, butterflies and pipistrelle bats. Info on flora and fauna is found at the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society’s information centre at Jews Gate. St. Michael’s Cave: The cave comprises an upper hall with five connecting passages and drops of 40-150ft to a smaller hall. A further succession of chambers, some at 250ft below the entrance, is reached through narrow holes. The Cathedral Cave is open to visitors and is used as an auditorium for concerts and theatre. The cave was prepared as a hospital in WWII, but never used. A further series of chambers ending in a mini lake is called Lower St. Michael’s Cave and can be visited with a guide. The Monkeys’ Den: There are around 160 monkeys in the Park and around 30 can be seen at the Monkey’s Den. Often called apes, they are tail-less Barbary Macaques and Europe’s only free living monkeys. £500 fine for feeding the monkeys - don’t do it! The Great Siege Tunnels: Tunnelling in the Rock began during the Great Siege (1779-1783) when France and Spain made an attempt to recapture the Rock while Britain was busy with the American War of Independence. Governor General Elliot offered a reward to any man who could tell him how to mount a gun on the north face of the Rock. It was a Sgt. Major Ince who suggested tunnelling and there are now over 30 miles of tunnels inside the Rock with various exhibitions inside the tunnels.
of the earliest British building on the Rock. Original graffiti, drawn by duty soldiers to stop themselves falling asleep, is still visible, the earliest dating back to 1726. The Moorish Castle: actually just part of a Moorish town and castle which was built up during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, spearheaded from Gibraltar in 711AD by Tarik-ibn-Zeyad (“Gibraltar” is a corruption of the Arabic words “Jebel Tarik” - Tarik’s mountain). The part we see today, The Tower of Homage, dates back to 1333AD, when Abu’l Hassan recaptured the Rock from Spain. Natural History & Heritage Park Walks: Med Steps is a stunning walk with the steep climb at the end rewarded with spectacular views of the Rock and Spain. Another recommended walk is St Michael’s Cave through to Charles V Wall but walkers should be relatively fit for both. It is also pleasant walking along the upper rock roads. Brochures available free from all Tourist Board offices. Botanical Gardens: Opened in 1816, the Alameda Botanical Gardens fell into disrepair but are currently being restored to their former glory. Visitors can enjoy a stroll beneath pines, dragon trees and palms, and see many of Gibraltar’s native plants as well as exotic species. The shop sells environmentally friendly gifts, plants and seeds. Tel: 200 72639/200 74022. Parking. Nelson’s Anchorage: Rosia Road 9.30am - 5.15pm Monday to Saturday (last entry at 5pm). Closed on Sunday. Admission: £1.00 (free of charge with Nature Reserve ticket. Tickets for the nature reserve can also be bought at this attraction). Parson’s Lodge: Rosia Road. A narrow limestone outcrop with a labyrinth of underground tunnels surmounted by an impressive battery, which has witnessed the development of coast artillery over 300 years. Once housed three 18 ton 10-inch rifled muzzle loaders positioned behind a
unique sandwich of armour plate and teak, known as ‘Gibraltar Shields’. TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. Flat Bastion Magazine Flat Bastion Road, Geological Research Station and Lithology of Gibraltar. To visit contact: F. Gomez Tel. 200 44460, P. Hodkinson Tel. 200 43910. Shrine of Our Lady of Europe (Museum within premises) Europa Road. 10am-7pm Monday to Friday, 11am-7pm Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays. Closed 1pm - 2pm. Trafalgar Cemetery: Trafalgar Road, open 9am - 7pm daily (admission free).
Business Information
Gibraltar Financial Services Commission ......Tel: 200 40283/4 website: www.fsc.gi Chamber of Commerce.......Tel: 200 78376 Federation Small Business.Tel: 200 47722 Company Registry...............Tel: 200 78193
Useful Numbers
Airport (general info.)..........Tel: 200 73026 Hospital, St Bernards..........Tel: 200 79700 Weather information.................Tel: 5-3416 Frontier Queue Update.......Tel: 200 42777
General Information
Gibraltar Museum.............Tel: 200 74289 18/20 Bomb House Lane Open 10am - 6pm (Sat. 10am - 2pm). Closed on Sunday. Admission: Adults £2/Children under 12 years £1. Special exhibitions also held at museum premises in Casemates gallery. Registry Office...................Tel: 200 72289 It is possible to get married on the Rock within 48 hours of arrival. A fact taken advantage of by stars such as Sean Connery and John Lennon. Rock Tours by Taxi............Tel: 200 70052 As well as offering normal fares, Gibraltar
Emergency Services Emergency calls only: Fire/Ambulance.......................Tel: 190 Police...............................Tel: 199/112 Emergency Number...............Tel: 112
The Military Heritage Centre: Housed in one of the Rock’s many historic batteries, the Military Heritage Centre displays information on the development of Gibraltar’s military defences through the ages. A City Under Siege Exhibition: Exhibits depicting the lives of the civilian population during the many sieges, are housed in one
History Alive
Every Saturday morning the Rock’s past is brought alive by a troop of soldiers in 18th century period uniform. The soldiers march from Bomb House Lane at 12 noon to Casemates. At Casemates they carry out a “Ceremony of the Keys” and then march back up Main Street to the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned.
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Gibraltar Bus Company Routes
taxis provide Rock Tours taking in the Upper Rock, Europa Point and other sites of interest. It is the best way to see the Rock’s major features in a short time. Tourist Board.....................Tel: 200 74950 Gibraltar Tourist Board, Duke of Kent House, Cathedral Square, Gibraltar. UK Tel: 0207 836 0777 giblondon@aol.com John Mackintosh Hall.......Tel: 200 75669 Centre of Gib’s cultural life, includes a cafeteria, theatre, exhibition rooms and library. 308 Main Street 9.30am - 11pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends. Bicycle Racks Bicycle parking is provided at the following locations: Europort Road, Casemates Tunnel, Land Port Ditch, Fish Market Road, Commonwealth Car Park, Reclamation Road (by English Steps) + Line Wall Road.
Public Holidays 2009
New Year’s Day 1 January Commonwealth Day 9 March Good Friday 10 April Easter Monday 13 April May Day 4 May Spring Bank Holiday 25 May Queen’s Birthday 15 June Late Summer Bank Holiday 31 August Gibraltar National Day 10 September Christmas Day 25 December Boxing Day 26 December Spain Fixed: New Year’s Day 1 January, Epiphany 6 January, St Joseph’s Day 19 March, Labour Day 1 May, St John 24 June, St James 25 July, Assumption Day 15 August, National Day 12 October, All Saints 1 November, Immaculate Conception 8 December, Christmas 25 December Moveable: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Corpus Christi Non-urgent calls: Ambulance Station..........Tel: 200 75728 Police...............................Tel: 200 72500 Gibraltar Services Police: Emergency Nos: ....Tel: (5) 5026 / (5) 3598
The Gibraltar Magazine is published and produced by Guide Line Promotions Ltd, 1st Floor 113 Main Street, Gibraltar. Tel/Fax: (+350) 77748
Natural History & Heritage Park
GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE • JANUARY 2009 July 2004
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