The Gibraltar Magazine February 2005

Lightweight and compact Automatic airflow director ensures uniform airflow and temperature distribution Air purification filter: - deodorises the air - helps prevent bacterial and viral propagation

Powerful mode can be selected for rapid cooling or heating

Washable front panel

Extremely quiet in operation, both indoors and outdoors

The outdoor unit can easily be mounted on a roof or terrace or placed against an outside wall

Up to 5 indoor units can be connected to 1 Multi outdoor unit. All indoor units are individually controllable with remote control and do not need to be installed in the same room. They operate simultane ously within the same cooling or heating mode.

Underwater Gibraltar Uncevered

A long-awaited book on the submerged world around the Rock of Gibraltar was launched at the end of 2004. The book, entitled Underwater Gibraltar — A Guide to the Rock's Submerged Sites has been written by Phil Smith and Darren Fa, and has a foreword by Lizzie Bird, BSAC National Diving Officer 1999-2004.

photographs and clear,simple,accu rate diagrams. This section will prove useful when planning dives and getting the most out of them.

The next four chapters deal with the local marine life, artefacts that can be encountered (from plates and bottles, to cannon and anchors), ship construction and wreck layout, and an insight into the survey techniques used to produce the book.

The 215-page book (which con tains colour photographs)contains important information on diving in the area,a short history of the local geography and construction of the harbour and the diving techniques

The final chapter chronicles the two years of survery and research work which finally iden tified the remains of an armed trawler lying in the Bay, which was sabotaged during WWII. This project won the first ever Nautical Archaeology Soci ety's Adopt a Wreck Award in No vember 2003.

I^T^uTnorsTav^eer^mn^ the area for over twenty years and their ex

best suited to local conditions.

The next section is a detailed de scription ofover 40 sites around the Rock including ship and aircraft wrecks,drop-offs, scenic sites with an abundance of marine life and underwater cave systems, every site is given both a GPS position and photographs of transits, along with details of its history, layout and guidance on diving the site. This information is backed up with

Dertise show

The authors have been diving the area for over twenty years and their expertise show. Phil Smith is a Brit ish Sub-Aqua Club National In structor and self-confessed wreck diving addict. Dr Darren Fa is an Advanced Instructor with a Doctor ate in Marine Biology. Both are qualified Tutors for the Nautical Archaeology Society.

The book is available from local booksellers.

2nd Major Player in Local Telecommunications

Broadband Gibraltar Limited has been granted authorisation, in the form of an individual licence, under the provisions of section 16 of the Telecommunications Ordinance 2000, to establish a telecommunications network and provide a range of telecommunications services. The authorisation will run for 15 years, and comes under the act which provides for the liberalisation of the telecommunications industry in Gibraltar.

Broadband Gibraltar Limited has local and overseas investors and aims, over a period of time, to roll out a new, digital telecommunica tions network,in phases,including

said "The grant of this authorisa tion will help promote competition among entities engaged in commer cial activities connected with tel ecommunications in Gibraltar. In

New Commander British Forces Gibraiiar

Commodore Allan Adair RN arrived in Gibraltar on Wednes-» day 19th January to assume com mand of British Forces Gibraltar. Commodore Adair was born in 1951, educated at Marlborough College and joined the Royal Navy in 1969.

the establishment of international connectivity.

Broadband Gibraltar Limited in tends to provide a wide portfolio of fixed, data and voice services to Gibraltar consumers.

Minister for Trade,Industry and Communications, Joe HolUday,

troducing a second major player to the local telecommunications mar ket should help give consumers greater choice and lower prices."

The aufhorisatio?j granted to Broadband Gibraltar Limited may be accessed on the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority's xvebsite at xinou'.gra.gi.

His early career included a number of sea appointments, the command ofa minesweeper HM5 Walkertoti and staff training at Greenwich. He was promoted to Commander in 1988 and had 2 staff appointments before assuming command of the recommissioned HMS Excellent in 1994 (a shore training and head quarters establishment). He re turned to sea in 1996 where he served as Second in Command of HMS Batlleaxe. He was promoted to Captain in 1998 and then spent 4 years as the Naval Attache in Paris before attending a course at the Royal College ofDefenceStud ies in 2003. After promotion to Commodore in November 2003, he was appointed as Director of Corporate Communication for the Royal Navy.

Commodore Adair is married to Penny and has 3sons and his inter ests include photography, geneal ogy, shooting and skiing. He is a Younger Brother of Trinity House and a Trustee of the Britannia As sociation. His first public appoint ment will be as the Inspecting Of ficer for the Royal Gun Salute, which will be fired on Monday 7th February on the anniversary of the Accession of HM Queen Elizabeth to the Throne.

"The grant of this authorisation will help promote competition among entities"

Santa Margarita Honda BoalEstate Relocates

Pictured above are Charlie and the team ofRonda Real Estates who have now relocated at more central premises conveniently located on TurnbuU's Lane, close to tire Continental Hotel. Ronda Real Estate Limited is a property consultants in Gibraltar and Spain offering sales, rentals, valuations,financial and legal advice, an on-line service and some exclusive offers. Well zvorth contacting if you are thinking of buying or selling in the area.

Tel:46246 Email: info@rondarealestate.com or visit their website www.rondarealestate.com.

The Silver Shop, which already has premises in Casemates gallery and Horse Barrack Court, has noiv opened a new premises just next to the Law Courts at the southern end ofMain Street. Selling the same beautiful design and silver items that are available at the other two shops the Silver Shop is now conveniently located wherever you are in the town area. The perfect placefor gifts and especially Valentine's Day presentsfor him and her.

At The Heart Of Business

A prestigious second floor office in a restored heritage building, part of the highly successful Town Range Development

Central location, in the heart of Gibraltar's business centre, next to the Law Courts, and close to the Convent

Full rates relief on a 5 year reducing scale

Low Service charges estimated approximately £3,000 per year

Access from Town Range through an impressive period style marble and panelled entrance hall and via a lift or stairs

Secondary access at street level from Prince Edward's Road

Exceptionally high ceilings and large Victorian windows giving the unique feeling of space and time

Possibility to add mezzanine floors to increase overall floor area

Use of communal gymnasium facilities

Optional car parking spaces available in a mews courtyard

Available immediately and with the option to fit out to your particular specifications

Floor area 243m2

Telephone Sharrock Shand on 79530 to view

Other offices available from 30m2 to 1000m2

Contact us for details

Afitdng profession

'There have been some amazing developments in Gibraltar over the last few years/ Mark Bettridge told me at his office/workshop at Chatham Counterguard,'all due to the on-line gaming companies and the big City traders from London. They have come here with big budgets and big new innovative ideas; they know what they want — the best — because they've al ready done it all in London.' He went on to tell me that three to five years ago many of his clients weren't here:'Now it's unbeliev able how many there are and the work they have us do — some of them even have pool tables in stalled for the staff!' he added.

Bridge Contracts is a shop, hotel and office fitting firm which usually provides the full turnkey service for transforming tired old premises into ultra-modem locations that are well in keeping with the 21st Cen tury - although ofcourse, Mark and his dedicated team will also provide the classical look if that's what's required.

Mark, a professional shopfitter, has been in Gibraltar for 22 years, but his experience goes back long before that to his days in his home area of Hayling Island near Port smouth. A shopfitter,1 learned,is a comparatively modern trade that encompasses many aspects of the work that aren't covered by tradi tional craftsmen such as carpenters. 'A shopfitter,' Mark explained, 'is skilled in partitioning, fitting sus pended ceilings, plasterboarding and installing all of the modern components and materials that make up the latest stylesin business premises.'

A practical man who prefers to be on the job alongside his 10-strong professional UK and Gibraltarian squad,(an experienced lady called Margaret runs the office) Mark, along with general foreman Steve Powell,has recently completed the Eliott Hotel's modernisation of the ground floor bar,the panoramic 8th floor restaurant and the basement conference centre.The hotel's own ers were so pleased with the qual ity and the speed of the work that they have awarded him the contract to carry out a major refit of all 123 bedrooms along with a new facade and balcorues.

Forjobs ofthis size Mark'slabour

force will swell to 20 men,as it did when he carried out the large-scale prestigious works for the www.888.com on-line gaming com pany Cassava at Europort, which included an enormous fully-pro tected computer room as well as the vast call centre. 'The nice thing about that one is that you con stantly see the name 888.com on tel-

time he was tied in with providing the work exclusively for one local project manger. When he branched out and set up Bridge Contracts Ltd word soon got around.'My phone didn't stop ringing,' said Mark,'it seemed like every business wanted me to work on their premises.'

1 asked him to clarify the term 'turnkey package'.'It's really what

people, we are always ready to work late nights and weekends as required. We're noted for meeting almost impossible completion tar gets,' he told me, adding that the package can include design and obtaining planning permission,but he is equally happy to work along with the client's own architect.'It's whatever the customer wants,' he said.

evision, and it's a good feeling to know that their offices were fitted out by us here in Gibraltar;' Mark said with genuine professional sat isfaction.

Apart from the steady flow of major works. Bridge Contracts is kept busy with shop conver sions, such as Sports City, Sakarta and Fantasy Fash ions.'All of our work is com mercial,' said Mark,'we don't usually take on domes tic jobs.'

Mark has been run ning his own shop and office fitting business here for twenty years, al though for some

it says,'he replied;'in effect you can hand us the keys to your shop or office and go away.When you come back'it'll all be ready for you.' Of course it doesn't always work like that — companies usually need to keep going while the work is in progress, and Mark is used to that.'As well as planning to minimise dis ruption by working around

Talking of his work force, Mark said that most of them live in Gi braltar and have been with him for several years.'We all work well to gether as equals. There are no de marcation problems - no one says "that's not my job". At the begin ning of a contract when the main work is demolition or ripping out the old, the skilled tradesmen will muck in to get it done until the job is ready for their own expertise to come into play. And we all have a drink together after work on Fri days.'

Although Mark tenders for some work against two or three other companies,a lot of his orders come in without having to compete. He attributes this to his commitment to, maintaining the high reputation that he and his tradesmen have at-1 tained."I'm here for life;' he said, 'so my reputation is important,and j that's why a lot of my clients are! repeats. And they like the fact that they can speak directly to me-it'sj always me on the end of the phone when they call.'

Mark at Bridge Contracts Ltd I is always contactable on his mo bile 57185000, fax 77041, and he guarantees a fast expert responsej to every enquiry.

You'll have seen Bridge Contracts' signs on many a Main Street shop, but a lot of their most advanced work is hidden from the public eye.

"You can hand us the keys to your shop or office and go away. When you come back It'll all be ready for you"

"Pi Property Surveys: A Wise Investment

Resales We have a very act ve property market in Gibraltar. Properties change hands quickly and at record prices. Our property market does not seem to have slowed down like it has across the border and in the UK. There are of course reasons for this, but the point of this article is to highlight the fact that many purchasers are not having proper professional advice on the state of their purchase prior to signing on the dotted line.

This is true of both Gibraltar properties and Spanish proper ties. With many Cibraltarians buying second homes in Spain or moving to Spain to live, it is quite incredible how many do this with out the comfort of a professional survey.

The legal fees are accepted,the mortgage lenders fees are paid, and of course the estate agent commission. But very few bother to find a relatively small sum to have their investment checked out.

It is not only something that should be considered if buying an old property or perhaps a ruin to refurbish, or even when there are cracks in the walls or damp patches and mould.Having a pro fessional chartered surveyor to in spect and report on any property is a wise action and if the report comes back with a good bill of health,this gives satisfying peace of mind.

In Spain where there has in the past been poor building control, construction practice has been poor and structural defects in buildings are common place. In recent years where we have seen an enormous "boom', many of the new projects that are often pur chased 'off plan' and many defects are present at all price lev els. It is essential that when buying in Spain that you have a survey undertaken before you place a deposit on a property. This is a large invest ment in a foreign country for many, a report on the property is a relatively small investment that at least will provide peace of mind and may even save considerable heartache and financial loss.The report will provide a general opin ion on quality and condition of the fabric of the building highlighting defects with suggested remedies. This information is essential in

making an informed decision on a purchase and to assist negotia tions.

The reports

All surveys are based on the RICS approved Standard Survey report and are undertaken by a qualified Chartered Surveyor.Re ports are available in two formats:

A)RICS Home Buyers Report This is a concise survey/ valua-

tion report providing information on the state of repair and condi tion of the property. The survey report covers those parts of the property which are readily visible.This report is intended for conventional properties in a rea sonable state of repair and is re stricted to areas of the property immediately accessible. The re port focuses on urgent or signifi cant defects and is designed to

provide information necessary

to help the homebuyer to decide whether or not to proceed with the purchase.

B) Building Survey Report

This is a more comprehensive] report and provides a fuller pic ture of the condition of the build-| ing; it is appropriate for oiderj properties or where the structufel is suspected of being unsound.] The Building Survey(Commonly known as a Structural Survey)is based on a very detailed examination of the prop erty and is essentially a technical inspection and report.. The survey is: detailed visual examina-j tion of the physical con-j dition of the building] looking for signs of crackin| movement and deterioration.^ report is not written in technic jargon and will advise on rer dial action necessary includingij dicative cost estimates.The build ing will be examined as far. practicable, for evidence of wc rot and dampness, as well as I general condition of the interio finishes,fittings and services." services will be inspected wl;

Very few bother to find a relatively small sum to have their investment checked out.

visible and the report will include a general description. However, the full condition of the services can only be ascertained by special ist tests, which can be undertaken as part of the building survey.i These twoeports are the most common and most useful to purchasers.They should never be confused with the valuation that the lending institution commis sions to assess a property for mortgage security.A valuation for this purpose will not normally

vide advice on all properties be ing considered for purchase.

If you are a prospective pur chaser or an estate agent on be half of a client, a call to an inde pendent Chartered Surveyor prior to making that important decision could well be the most valuable and useful call you make. For the estate agent we are here to give that peace of mind that you can share the benefit of when you have been instrumen tal in recommending this advice

advise on defects or problems and is restricted solely to the assess ment of security for the lender.

In Gibraltar there are qualified Chartered Surveyors based here and offering this service for both properties in Spain and in Gibral tar. My practice in based in Irish Town,but we cover properties all over Southern Spain and even the Balearics. We have a network of fellow professionals who work with us and together we can pro-

to a client or an applicant because by association you have been seen to be acting in their interests and not solely your own.This is essen tial for the building up of a good business reputation in a competi tive marketplace like Gibraltar.

NICHOLAS GALE. Chartered Surveyor Services, can he found at Unossi House, 1 -5 Irish Town. Call Nick Gale or Paul Gibson on 46579 or visit ivzvw.nicholasgale.com

the full condition of the services can only be ascertained by specialist tests, which can be undertaken as part of the building survey

Competitiv Insuranc

Although Gibraltar's booming insurance industry has en^yed "three or four very good years", competition is likely to get tougher following the enlargement of the EU and the subsequent emergence of "new kids on the block" who are hungry to expand their financial services. With wider experience of the industry, Malta could offer an attractive alternative to the Rock as an insurance jurisdiction particularly if solvency margins are kept competitive.

Cyprus is also keen to establish itself as a "European" finance cen tre, but may find it difficult to over come the perception that it has be come something of a haven for Rus sian money.

So far much of Gibraltar's spec tacular growth in the insurance field — officially this is the fastest expanding sector of the Rock's fi nancial services — has hinged on business from the UK,with compa nies attracted as much by the swift ness of set up and Gibraltar's regu latory reputation as by the fact that business is in English. But the Rock also will have to look for business in the European market place and this could prove trickier, according to Alan Kentish, managing director of the Fidecs Group and one of the main players in generating Gibral tar's insurance "boom",

"Gibraltar basically hashad three or four very good years, but the easy wins have happened particu larly out of Britain where we have seen the majority of the growth," Kentish tells me. "Typically these easy wins were the Lloyds' syndi cates which usually were seen as an annual venture. There was no cer tainty of continuation,it would de pend on whether they were able to get names and corporate names to

put up the capital... so that it was a fairly easy wind to pick this busi ness up from Lloyds.

"There was also a number of un derwriting agencies who were never quite masters of their own destiny because they were reliant on someone else to underwrite this capacity. They had the underwrit ing knowledge but they didn't have the capital behind it at that stage."

Kentish adds that after "three good years",the past nine to twelve months have seen a noticeable de cline in new possibilities and that "new prospective clients are no Alan Kentish

Gibraltar must now consider the

longer as many as they were".

"That's not to say there's not new business around,but 1 think its go ing to be a more difficult market to pick these clients up," Kentish says. "Coupled with the fact that there is a turn in the UK market in terms of the cycle, so that rates are soften ing, it's going to mean that the re turn on capital companies are get ting is dropping away slightly.

Flight Safety award to PC Bossino

RAF Gibraltar's Station Commander,Wing Commander Clive Blount, presented PC Bossino, from Gibraltar Services Police, with a Flight Safety Commendation Certificate for his actions last year. On 9 July 2004 PC Bossino was stationed at the south barrier of the airfield when he noticed that a part had fallen off the runway sweeper. He quickly reported this to ATC, who advised the driver of the sweeper.The vehicle was returned to MT where further checks revealed that other parts were also missing, PC Bossino's prompt action allowed ATC to carry out a thorough surface inspection of the runway prior to the ar rival of the first aircraft of the day. Even the smallest bits of debris on an runway can cause significant damage to aircraft. Wing Commander Blount commented,'The role of the GSP is primarily for the maintenance of security and control of traffic and pedestrians crossing the runway. It is pleasing to note that thisofficershowed good awareness of FlightSafety and reported the incident to the correct authorities'.

That's pretty much where Gibral tar has got to."

Gibraltar must now consider the European market as a major target for potential growth, Kentish be lieves.

"What we have seen is a certain amount of Irish insurers setting up here, but obviously the Irish mar ket is a fairly easy development because it is an English-speaking

territory. However, to move into other markets —such as the French or German, or to be fair any other EU jurisdiction - will be more of a challenge for Gibraltar. This is mainly because of language... which makes it more difficult to get plugged in and to change the way that people operate.

"For instance, in France a lot of insurance is sold through banks and to change the mind-set of how people buy insurance will be quite difficult. Aon have picked up a cer tain amount of business from their Paris office but that typically has been captive insurance business; but captive is normally the fore run ner for third party so the fact that Aon hasstarted to pick some of this up is a good indication that, over time, Gibraltar will become a pos sible jurisdiction for European in surers,"

With the bulk of third-party di rect writing business currently han dled in Gibraltar UK-driven, Eu rope must become one of Gibral tar's market challenges, Kentish believes. But the Rock also faces ri vals from what he terms as'the new kids on the block'.

"I think it's fair to say there's two potential jurisdictions that could rival Gibraltar/ Dublin as an insur ance jurisdiction of choice," he says, "One is Cyprus and the other one is Malta.

"Cyprus has a number of issues going against it such as the per ceived amount of Russian business there and the sort of connotations that go with that and also I think that as a finance centre it is less or ganized or developed than Gibral tar.

The interesting one from Gibral tar's point of view and as a com-1 petitor is Malta."

Maltese legislation now is fully EU compliant so that as a jurisdic tion Malta is completely compara-l ble with Gibraltar."The interesting] scenario — and 1 think this has still! to be put to the test — is how they] apply that legislation... whichj could make the difference between] wirming and losing", he argues.

of BOO Fidecs

European market as a major target for potential growth, Kentish believes.

Photograph by Cpl Al Marsh

Making Insurance Simple a consumer's guide

insurance

products

the consumer.

The Financial Services Commission has published a guide to aimed exclusively at The aim of the guide is to pro vide a clear reference point for con sumers on the different types of in surance products which are avail able. It also brings to consumers" attention what they should be look ing out for as well as suggesting questions that they should be ask ing of their insurance intermediary or financial planner.

Written in plain and easy-to-understand language, it is divided into Life, Home,Health,Motor and Travel Insurance sections. It also contains a glossary of commonly used insurance terms and general issues surrounding all types of in surance products.

Damian Rocca, who co-authored the guide together with Jandra Borg,said:

"Experience tells us that consum ers may sometimes buy insurance without knowing the exact terms and conditions of their policy and, for example, the types of losses

which are covered and which are not.

"We are therefore delighted to have produced this document to enable consumers to better under stand insurance products.

"The guide is simple and in formative, and we trust will be of good use to the consumer."

The guide has been drawn up in conjunction with the Gibraltar in surance sector.

The FSC has set itself a number ofobjectives including raising pub lic awareness of financial products. The guide to insurance is the first of a series which the FSC will be producing across the main types of financial products which are avail able to the local market.

Users can read the guide on the FSC's web-site (www.fsc.gi/consumer/insuranceguide.htm) by clicking on the Consumer section on the menu followed by Insurance Guide.

Heathrow Schedule

reintroduced

In mid-January local carrier GB Airways reintroduced flights be tween London Heathrow and Gi braltar airports.

"London Heathrow is a prestig ious airport," commented Joe Hollliday, Minister for Tourism. "It is therefore helpful for Gibraltar that there should once again be Heathrow flights. The Government considers that the international con nections through Heathrow will be of assistance to Gibraltar's business community."

The airline will now be operating three flights a day between London airports and Gibraltar on three days

a week during the summer. This is the most significant increase in ca pacity on the route since GB Air ways first introduced double daily flights between Gibraltar and Lon don,and is a testimony to the con tinued commitment of the airline to Gibraltar as a tourist destination.

Air arrivals at Gibraltar have been increasing steadily, year on year, since 1996, when there were 78,100 air passenger arrivals. In 2003 the number of arrivals at Gi braltar was 133,000 and the arriv als figures for 2004 are expected to show an increase of over 23,000 passengers to 156,000 passengers.

Have you considered...

An Intruder alarm for your premises?

Marking your property?

Installing an alarm system on your vehicle?

Keeping your property Inside your vehicle OUT OF SIGHT?

Locking all doors and windows when you leave the house?

If you wish to consider all these and other matters to do with Crime Prevention, please give us a call.

Retail FOCUS: Alpha Electronics

'When we opened last summer we were initially attracting mainly tourists because they like the light bright atmosphere; but word of our vast range and our extra-spe cial service has spread and now local people are as much a part of our clientele as the visitors,' Ajay told me, when he had finished carefully telling a customer how to operate his new video camera.

The shop is certainly light and bright, but the most remarkable thing about it is the vast range of electronic, photographic and household goods clearly displayed in this medium-sized shop oppo site the John Mackintosh Hall. Even Ajay had to think hard when I asked him how many different items were on show but we agreed that there must be several hun dred.

To list them all would fill this page, but 1 can generalise by say ing that the categories cover com puter accessories, radios, mobile and cordless phones, walkietalkies,headphones,battery charg ers, and universal remote controls for only £7.95... but let's have a break from the list and get back to Ajay himself.

Ajay is fully capable of provid ing a service such as thisshop,hav ing worked for the Alwani Group for 15 years, much of that time as manager of their shops such as Carlos and Galaxy,and he also has an honours degree as a B.Com, (that's Bachelor of Commerce even if, by coincidence,it soundslike an email address)obtained at univer sity in his home town of Ajmer, which is in Rajasthan (meaning

Land of the Rajas)in the north east of India. 'It's a place of great his torical importance and a very fa mous tourism state with a lot of palaces,' he told me as 1 noted the electric time switches, batteries.

trying to make a quick profit. I get full satisfaction from making sure a customer understands how something works, for instance. I have always believed in taking the long-term view and it's already

I was particularly taken with the BT walkie-talkie, which at only £55 gives two handsets and headsets (which also double as FM radios)

and whose 3km range must make them an economical option to mo biles within Gibraltar. Talking of which, as well as selling mobile phones and covers, you can also buy pre-paid Gibtelecom and re charge cards at the shop as well. There is also a good choice of digital cameras and accessories(in cluding memory cards) and tri pods are in stock as well for seri ous photography and the shop also specialises in quality binocu lars.

Ajay, whose outside interests in clude travelling and reading ('1 read everything from English nov els to local magazines;') likes to keep the place alive by constantly changing the special — and very special — offers, which always make it worth checking with him before buying elsewhere.There are usually several items at special prices at any time.

DVD lens cleaners, microphones, phone covers,clocks,and cordless answer phones...

bearing fruit.'

This attitude also spreads to those who don't buy; he is just as happy answering queries from people who pop in with a question about a productor to check a price, and treats them with the same friendly interest and courtesy as he doessomeone who hasjust bought a hi-fi, or a microwave oven, or a toaster, or a Philips shaver,or a fan heater... Short Cult

His experience and his pleasant helpful personality struck me as being as much the cause of the shop's quick success as the variety of goods — almost all of them top brand names — and he confirmed this when he told me:'1 am more dedicated to giving the best possi ble customer service rather than

Changes at Short Cuts

There are changes ahead at Short Cuts hair salon in the Ocean Heights Gallery as it snips its way into its seventh year of styling Gibraltar's image concious. Nowojferinga combined ladies and men's salon to make things more appealing for all, the salon is to be remodelled to make the whole expereience even more comfortable. And the men still don't need to make an appointment...just show upfor a great cut. Tel:50505

The shop is open-fronted enough that you can get a taste of it without even going in,but if you are drawn by the vast array of^ goods then you can step in with out any fear of being hassled or pressurised in any way, That's Ajay's special style.

Alpha Electronics is at 321 Main Street, next door to Lloyds TSB Bank. It's open from lOam to 7.30pm Mondays to Fridays,(Spin on Saturdays) and the phone/fax is 75460. Ajay also welcomes ervquiries by email, at alphaelectronic@europe.com

'We're quickly developing more and more local customers as they get to know our shop/ said Ajay Shahani of Alpha Electronics.

AiaySha AMiaEI tranics

1 get full satisfaction from making sure a customer understands how something works

Mad on Movies

Rob and Karen of Gibraltar

Movie World, a new business in Marina Bay are "mad on movies", and like many of us like nothing more than flopping down to watch a good film after a hard day's work. With this in mind, they have man aged to create a modern relaxed at mosphere at their new rental shop at Unit 8b,The Square, Marina Bay. At the light and airy shop vou will be welcome to browse through the

The shop offers four different rental packages to choose from. Membership is free and all are wel come, including those who live in Spain. You can rent using the tradi tional pay-as-you-go membership returning the discs the next day. Movies and games rented on Fri days can be kept all weekend in cluding bank holidays.Or check out the Gold,Silver and Bronze flat fee membership packages designed to

Movies and games rented on Fridays can be kept all weekend including bank holidays

movie and game titles, but can also expect a fast and efficient service if you just want to dive in on your way home(the shop is right next to the car park).

Hundreds of movies have just arrived including great classics, and new releases are brought in on a regular basis to keep the stock fresh and up-to-date. In addition to the films there are PS2and X Box games to keep the young and young at heart amused.

•Recruitment of Personnel/Management •Training - Time Management, Oeiegation,Team Building etc •HR Consultancy

make life easier when trying to en tertain the family. These member ships include reduced rental costs from £1.50 and the option to return the disc after two nights instead of one so no more late fees. Kids can be given their own membership card so thev can pop in without money and without mum or dad.

Pop down to Gibraltar Movie World and find out all about it. Unit 8b, The Square, Marina Bay Tel: 49788 Email: gmw(togibnet.gi.

The Gibraltar Award: The Storv of Albert Fava

The Self-Determination for Gibraltar Group has launched a new annual event to be known as The Gibraltar Award.

The presentation will be made each year on the occasion of Inter national Human Rights Day, lOth December, which commemorates the adoption by the members of the United Nations of the Univer sal Declaration of Human Rights on that date 1948.

These awards will be made an nually to people who have con tributed significantly to the eman cipation and the political develop ment of the Gibraltarians or to the democratisation of Gibraltar and who have not in the opinion of the SDGG obtained other public rec ognition commensurate with their achievements.

The first of these awards has been granted to Albert Fava, in recognition of his contribution to the economic and political devel opment of Gibraltar and as the only Gibraltarian to have suffered exile, which is forced expulsion from his own country.

Mr. Fava was a Gibraltarian who was an enameller by trade and a Trades Unionist who was active between the 1930s and the 1970s. Having been evacuated from Gibraltar in 1940 he became a very senior Trades Unionist in Scotland after the Second World War, reaching the rank of General Secretary for Scotland of the Amal gamated Union of Engineering Workers.

During the reorganisation of trades unionism in Gibraltar after the Second World he was recruited to return to Gibraltar to lead the re-organisation of the movement here by the Gibraltar Confedera tion of Labour as its General Sec retary, commencing on 1st July 1948,

His leadership qualities and his organisational skills were such that he immediately drew the at tention of the Colonial Authority, of the War Department and of the Chamber of Commerce the three principal employers' organisa tions of the day.

During his short career in Gi braltar trades unionism, three months in 1948, he immediately set about creating a database of wages in Gibraltar by the simple expedient of going from

workplace to workplace with a group of helpers asking people how much they earned and how many hours they worked.The ne gotiation of the 1951 constitution with the UK,our first elected body with powers to legislate, was the direct result of a motion tabled by him in the GCL in August 1948. He initiated campaigns for benefits we all take for granted today, a public health service, a social in surance scheme, family allow ances, occupational pensions, re dundancy compensation, unem ployment benefit, and health and safety' legislation.

On 22nd September 1948 the de cision was taken by the Governor to remove him from Gibraltar by whatever means.An expulsion or der under the Aliens and Stran gers Order of 1919 was served on him on 6th October 1948 giving him 48 hours to leave Gibraltar.

ised a petition signed by nearly 5000 Gibral tarians out of a possible 7000,and demonstrated to have his expul sion repealed {4000 turned up to demonstrate outside the Con vent), to no avail. The reasons given bv the Governor at the time for re jecting all applica tions are lacking both in depth and reason.

Records re leased in 1998 un der the fifty year rule, and other records available to us since the

completion of our research, show that it is doubtful that the legisla tion used to impose his expulsion was in fact applicable to Albert Fava, who's expulsion was in all probability illegal even by the stem criteria of colonial Gibraltar at the time. It is possible that his hurried removal from Gibraltar was designed to avoid It being covered by the UN Declaration of Human Rights which was signed by the UK eight weeks later, whose contents were obviously well known to the authorities by the time he was deported, and in contravention of which his exile would have been, had it been de layed.

Albert Fava is the only Gibraltarian to have ever been ex iled from Gibraltar. His expulsion took place at the time of the start of negotiations between civic lead ers in Gibraltar and the Colonial authorities for the introduction of the first democratising Constitu tion. Among the signatories of that Constitution were Trades Union ists who fought for the return of Mr. Fava to Gibraltar, perhaps spurred on by the shock of his re moval, their impotence before an inflexible Governor and colonial office, and their disappointmentat those colleagues who might have done more to achieve his return. At this lime of the negotiation ofa new constitution for Gibraltar the insidiousness of colonialism, and the meaning of the reserve pow ers of the Governor, is brought home by these events.

Albert Fava would have been a leading player in the social and political development oi Gibraltar had he been allowed to return. His charisma and organisational abili ties were a powerful combination, which changed Gibraltar's history= and accelerated its path to the nas^| cent democracy we enjoy today.

The members of the GCL and other trades unionists in Gibraltar rallied, met, wrote letters, organ-

Above and below: Two of the few existing photographs of Albert Fava

Albert Fava would have been a leading player in the social and political development of Gibraltar had he been allowed to return

The presentation to hisfamilyi The Gibraltar Award in the namei the late Albert Fava was made by' Self-Determination for Gibralb Group at the premises of the Tra port and General Workers Unio Town Range on 10th December 2C

Dying Sensibly

The importance of drawing up a will cannot be overstated. Below, local lawyer Ian Watts seeks to illustrate how dying "intestate" in Gibraltar can have undesirable consequences.

Charles A.Gomez& Co.

A New Approach to Problem Solving

lawyer Ian IVatts

By making a will you are able to exercise a greater degree of control over the disposal of your property' when you are dead which, for ob vious reasons, you would other wise be unable to do. You are able, subject to certain limits, to choose who is to'benefit'from your'estate' (your money and other assets)and in what proportion. For many,this adds to a peaceable demise.

Conversely, if you die without leaving a will, you are said to die intersfate and the succession to your estate is determined by law and, if you have no surviving relatives,all your estate passes to the Crown.Is this really what you would have wished for?

Here arc but a few examples on how your intestacy laws in Gibral tar can lead to an undesirable state of affairs;

• Marital Breakdowns: un less you are divorced or separated by Order of the Supreme Court,

your estranged spouse (you may simply detest or not speak to) is entitled to your estate in preference to others.

• Partners/Cohabllees: in general, may not have rights to your estate. An estranged spouse as above, or other family members who you may not be on speaking terms with have a superior title to your property;

It needs hardly be said that dy ing sensibly nowadays is dying with a will in place. Do not neglect this. A simple will is relatively in expensive, But, it is clear that it will be sure to save your family much inconvenience and at times afore said serious hardship.

For further advice or queries on the making of a will, kindly contact Ian Watts at Charles Gomez & Company on Tel: 74998/73316. Al ternatively, email your query to carlaw@gibnet.gi.

Law Firm Charles A.Gomez & Co is well known for a number of high profile court cases and its popular conveyancing section.

Over the last 18 months, the firm has also offered the general public a unique free advice serv ice under the direction of Gibral tar's first Ombudsman, Henry Pinna.

The Head of Chambers,Charles Gomez explains the service:

"Legal disputes can be avoided with minimum damage if the problem is dealt with in a cool, common sense manner. Our firm has put this concept to good ef fect for many years with both cor porate and business clients. The same principles apply to all poten tial legal problems."

Charles Gomez adds that Henry Pinna has "the people skills" and contacts within the community to ensure that citizens who use the service get the best chance to resolve their issues as painlessly as possible.

The service is free and consists of an initial 1-hour consultation with Henry Pinna.

Henry Pinna says that he is pleased with the variety of mat

ters that he has had to deal with. These have ranged from potential disputes with public authorities, between private individuals and even advising new businesses on legal requirements.

He continues: "We have had some notable successes. We op erate on the principle that the best way to resolve a problem is to have full information and clarity and a willingness to enter into genuine and meaningful dia logue. Discussions are held in a well-meaning, non-confronta tional manner.Only in thefew in stances where no just settlement can be achieved will I recom mend to clients that they consult a lawyer. I do however work closely with the barristers at Charles A.Gomez& Co to ensure that the legal rights of those who come to see me are represented.

The service is based on the top floor of Charles A.Gomez& Go's office building. Enterprise House at 5 Secretary's Lane. This floor also houses a confidential Coun selling Service "Line Link".

Appointments can be made by calling 74998 or attending at the office during working hours.

In addition to advice on property, Charles A. Gomez Chambers provides advice and representation on dispute resolution and litigation at all levels, business set up and licensing.

We are members ofthe Gibraltar BarAssociation.

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If you die without leaving a will, you are said to die interstate and the succession to your estate is determined by law

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Top Marksfor Gibraltar's FSC

Gibraltar's Financial Services Commission and its Commissioner Marcus Killick have been handed a veritable flower-stall of bouquets by a review panel appointed last year by the Governor Sir Francis Richards. The review, the results of which were released late in January - more than a month later than originally anticipated - praises the FSC's "clear commitment to meeting inter national standards" and lauds the "good standard" of financial services regulation on the Rock which the FSC has achieved.

But it also makes recommen dations — some of which ii adopted would change, drasti cally, the way in which the FSC operates—thatare likely to pro voke a chilly reaction from the Caruana Government.

"There is no doubt that the FSC is determined to tackle the risks it faces and is seeking to implement a high quality regu latory regime that is appropri ate for the Gibraltar market," the introductory overview adds. The array of accolades, particu larly in relation to the invest ment services and insurance sector, should more than off set some of the concerns of overseas investors relating to the uncer tainties surrounding Gibraltar's proposed new tax regime.

The review team was headed by one-timeUK Treasury mandarin and a former head of the Jersey fi nancial services authority Richard Pratt and part of the team's remit was to put forward recommenda tions for change and that each of these should be given a level of pri ority — 'high','medium' or 'low'. The report also stresses that where its recommendations suggest change,"this should be seen in the context of a regulatory regime de veloped to a good standard and staffed by competent regulators with a manifest determination to improve performance further".

However,it seems probable that the Government may resistsome of the Pratt report recommendations — particularly where they would involve legislative changes — as these appear to overstep the crite ria defining the scope of the Gov ernor's appointment of a review team as laid down by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission Or dinance 1989(FSCO).

Reviewing the over all opera tions of the FSC the report points out that the Commission's position is unusual in that it has virtually no specific regulatory powers or re sponsibilities "beyond a general duty to protect the public against financial loss as a result of action by financial services businesses"

and monitor the extent to which Gibraltar's supervisory regimes comply with EU obligations and match UK standards.

"Moreover,it does not have spe cific powers to license financial services, businesses, monitor their compliance with regulation,or take enforcement action... powers [which] have been given to the Commissioner." And — although "no problems have arisen with

of the Commission conforms with best practice, "the present budget process could potentially under mine this independence,since fees are not set by the Commission,"

The report points out that the Government is consulted over the FSC's annual budget which is sup ported by regular Government funding, while the House of As sembly votes the level of funding that appears in the estimates.

industry consultation process. The fees should be set accord ing to criteria set and published by the Commission. The budget would be set according to the Commission's assess ment of the level necessary to undertake its statutory duties, subject to its overall statutory responsibility to operate eco nomically,efficiently and effec tively.

"The Government would have no general right to influ ence the level of the FSC's budget,but there would be no restriction on its ability to exer cise its right, if it wished to, to pay an amount equivalent to a proportion of the fees.

"If the Government consid ered that the FSC was behav ing in a disproportionate or ex travagant manner, it would have the statutory right to appoint an independent assessor to conduct a value for money review. And...

"If that review revealed any wasteful or unnecessary expendi ture, the Government would be able to require the FSC to take ap propriate action (provided that such action did not interfere with the FSC's ability to perform its regulatory duties) or require the FSC to explain why action was in appropriate.

these arrangements so far" — the report recommends four 'high' pri ority steps involving legislative changes and what would amount to a shift of powers from the Com missioner to the Commission.

While lauding the FSC's inde pendence, the report argues that because the Commission does not set fees, nor is it financially 'inde pendent', there would be advan tages in adopting a new budgetary model.

Both the Government and the fi nancial services industry recognise that the FSC "acts in an independ ent manner and while this is'com mendable'and the actual operation

"While this appears not to have compromised independence in practice hitherto, this outcome has depended largely on the personali ties of those currently operating the process and the choices they have made," the report says.

Because personalities and choices could change in the future, 'more robust' financial arrange ments which would "reinforce in dependence,yet provide some safe guard for the Government"should be put in place. The'model' which the Pratt report suggests would be along the following lines:

"The Commission would set its own fees and budget,subject to an

The independence this arrange ment would provide should be ac companied by more transparent accountability arrangements, the report continues. While the FSC's present'considerable' informal ac countability to the government and the financial services industry was to be commended,further account ability arrangements could be put in place such as an FSC annual gen eral meeting.

"It would be helpful if the FSC, the Government and the Governor were to draw up a memorandum of understanding to cover the rela tions between them,including the kind of information and briefing the FSC should provide and the way particular events (such as fi nancial collapses) should be han dled," the report adds.

At work in Gibraltar's fSC

"The FSC is determined to tackle the risks it faces and is seeking to implement a high quality regulatory regime that is appropriate for the Gibraltar market"

lady Caihca

The Governor

"The good,the bad and the ugly" would be an excellent phrase to describe the assembled Governors of Gibraltar, with the addition of a fourth category: "the forgotten". For, hiding among that distinguished list, like shrinking violets in a bed of flamboyant roses, are men who otherwise made so little mark on history that they are like barefooted burglars creeping through the house at midnight and making off before their existence was known.

Take General Joseph Sabine, Governor of the Rock for almost ten years. Not the longest tenure, but longer than most. He arrived in May 1730, and stayed until death relieved him of his duties in October,1739. For men ofSabine's ilk, only the will of God super seded the will of liis sovereign.

A likeness of the general hangs in the National Portrait Gallery, butotherwise his passage through life seems to have left little trace. Even the date of his birth is uncer tain, though the few chroniclers who take a guess opt for 1662.That would have made him 77 years old at the time of his death;a ven erable age in IS''' Century.

But we should not be too harsh on Joseph Sabine, for in attempt ing to impress his image on the world and posterity he had formi dable opposition, and it was nocontest. He was up against his exwife.

She was born Elizabeth Malyn, and if only half of her extraordi nary story is true it eclipses any thing conceived by Georgette Heyer or Barbara Cartland. Her first marriage, in 1692, to James Fleet, son of the Lord Mayor of London,seems to have been engi neered by her ambitious parents. If they were desperate to see her settled and off their hands,the de sire had come early, for she was then only eighteen years old. In spite of her exceptional beauty, there was little affection in the match, and the marriage floun dered.

Step forward Joseph Sabine, then a mere Colonel. The Gover norship of Gibraltar still lay many years ahead, but he was of good stock and, importantly, he had a considerable fortune. Neverthe less,this marriage too proved dis astrous. Details are sketchy,and it

Spanish possessions in America at the behest of King George II. Long before that, however, he too had joined the list of those who had been sampled and discarded by the lovely but capricious Eliza beth.

Retaining the name of Lady Cathcart, she moved seamlessly onto husband No. 4 — the only man she is said to have married for love. He was an Irishman named Hugh Maguire and, per hapssurprisingly for one who had shown herself to be shrewd, cal culating, and as street-wise as an alley cat, she appears to have be come utterly infatuated with him.

An unscrupulous adventurer, Maguire met the mature but still alluring Lady Cathcart when his fortunes were at a very low ebb, and in no time talked her into buy ing him a commission in the Brit ish Army. He was unquestionably handsome,with a ready wit,a glib tongue, an irrepressible sense of humour, and all the colourful vi tality that had been missing in her three previous rich but dreadfully dull husbands.

He had all the colourful vitality that had been missing in her three previous rich but dreadfully dull husbands

would be monstrous to sully the name ofa lady,even by innuendo, but Elizabeth was very beautiful, determined, high-spirited and, well, flight)'. We say no more.

Sabine slipped away to live a long,distinguished,but compara tively colourless life. Elizabeth, meanwhile,had developed a taste for military men, and husband number three was Lord Cathcart — a distinguished soldier des tined to die en route to attack

They married, and instantly the trouble began.As they took break fast together for the first time in Lady Cathcart's home, Welwyn Manor,she looked askance at the cheap cutlery with which she was expected to eat it. Her new hus band ofonly 24 hours had shipped the silverware off to London to be sold, and she angrily demanded an explanation. Maguire laughed, and admitted for the first time that he was up to his eyebrows in debt.

adding that if she would not give him money he would take it. Af ter all, they were married, and in law whatever was hers was by definition his. Arrogantly he de manded that she immediately hand over her jewels and the deeds to the house. He had been searching for them while she slept but, perhaps out of some lurking suspicion of her husband's true character, she had hidden them, and refused to give them up.

Suddenly,thejovial rascal Hugh Maguire stood revealed as the blackest of villains from the pages of a penny romance.Can we doubt that as he laughed wickedly at the distress of his sobbing wife he twirled his moustaches and re peatedly slapped his thigh? 1 think not.

Elizabeth ran to her bedroom with Maguire's pitiless guffaws ringing in her ears. Slamming the door behind her she quickly stripped herself naked and sewed the best of her jewels into the folds of her petticoat. The fact that she considered this the p>erfect place of concealment tells us much about the status of the marriage. The deeds of the house she hid j behind a secret door in the bed-j room wall, the key to which she tied around her waist. The evi-| dence mounts.

Maguire strutted around like a I peacock. He might not own the house,buthe was master of it, and I he intended to make that plain.Hel openly took his way rcpeatedlyj with the maids. He drank and] sang with the stable boys one day,] and beat them mercilessly with hisi riding crop the next,simply toex-j ert his authority.And all the while! he badgered Elizabeth to hand! over the deeds. His lawyers had] told him that all he needed to) make the house his own was

Lady Cathcart

papers and her signature. But she was an indomitable woman, and steadfastly refused.

Maguire had his own estate in Ireland, butit was heavily in debt. Nevertheless, he devised a ruth less plan to force his unfortunate wife into capitulation.In effect, he would kidnap her,transport her to Ireland,and hold her prisoner un til she gave in.

Telling her that they were off to visit an old friend, Maguire called for coach and horses, and soon they were on the road. Becoming suspicious,Elizabeth asked where they were going. More evil laugh ter. "We're on the way to Holyhead",he said."You're going to Ireland. A stay at my castle will soon bring you to your senses." They would rest overnight at the White Lion Inn at Chester, before catching the ferry to Dublin.

Meanwhile, her lawyer was about to reveal himself as the greatest detective in history. Hear ing that the coach had not re turned, he instantly deduced not only the nature of Maguire's plot, but also its intimate details. How else to explain the fact that he dashed to the Lord Chief Justice, obtained a writ of habeas corpus, and despatched a messenger forthwith to Chester to serve the injunction and keep Lady Cathcart in England?

But Maguire was not to be thwarted.Learning of the plan by means impenetrably obscure, he locked his wife in their room and paid a prostitute to impersonate her. The messenger did not know Lady Cathcart by sight, which is excusable,but his apparent inabil ity to distinguish between a foulmouthed, hatchet-faced trollop who called him "dearie" and a ti tled lady, is perhaps not.

The prostitute protested vehe mently. She was travelling to Ire land of her own free will, and bit-

terly resented this impertinentin terference.

But by inferring witless gullibil ity in the messenger we may be unkind, for had he meekly ac-

This combination of subterfuge and brutality won the day, and Maguire soon had his hostage safely imprisoned in his Ulster castle. A lover of the more lurid

Subterfuge and brutality won the day, and Maguire soon had his hostage safely imprisoned in his Ulster castle

cepted this assurance and gone on his way,there would have been no need for Maguire to take his next action. He bribed two highway men to beat him up and steal the writ.

Gothic romances, he declared her mad and locked her in the attic,far from prying eyes.There he contin ued to taunt her, demanding to know the location of her jewels and the deeds. The former were

still in her petticoats, and the key to the secret door still hung around her waist. Perhaps Maguire should have taken les sons in deduction from his wife's superlatively gifted attorney.

For a long time the gallant lady held out, but finally, perhaps driven truly mad by his continual torments,she cracked. The details are unknown, but one day he ap peared unexpectedly at Welwyn Manor with the wildest of gleams in his eyes. Kicking aside aston ished servants as he went, he rushed to his wife's bedroom,tore aside the curtains that hid the se cret door, and began clawing at it with his bare hands and hacking at it with a huge knife.Presumably Elizabeth, though driven to di vulge the location of the deeds, had either stubbornly refused to hand over the key,or, in his eager ness to return to England and claim his prize, Maguire had for gotten to bring it.

But Fate was about to step in. This was the moment at which,if the story was transferred to the stage, where it belonged, a great cheer would have gone up from the audience.During his maniacal assault upon the unyielding door, Maguire's knife slipped and deliv ered a great gash to his thumb.He thought little of it at the time, but tetanus soon set in, and as all the best villains do,he died a horrible and richly deserved death.

Lady Cathcart's attorney made immediately for Ireland, rescued her and brought her triumphantly back to England.Wisely,she never married again,devoting herselfin stead to charitable works and liv ing to be 95.

She outlived Joseph Sabine by thirty years. He had risen to be come Governor of Gibraltar. She was never the Governor's lady, but somehow it is hard to believe that she cared.

An illustration ofLady Cathcart

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New Hospital Gets Readyfor Patients

On Practical Completion of the new hospital building at Europort at the end of December, the keys were handed to the Gibraltar Health Authority via Ernest Britto, Health Minister. It is expected that the new hospital will become operational during February.

The GHA has been engaged in equipping and commissioning the hospital and training staff in the processes and skills necessary to work in such a vastly improved and modern environment.

The new hospital represents a "sea-change" in facilities compared to the current hospital, as well as offering new facilities which Gi braltar does not presently enjoy. Among many other advantage,this will result in fewer patients having to travel abroad for diagnosis and treatment. For example, the new hospital contains a CT Scanner and is also fully equipped for mammography services and dialysis serv-

health & medical directory

BIORESONANCE PRACTITIONER

Gisela Keuper-von Kader brtrcrefito

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Dialysis - Six station dialysis unit. Mortuary - pleasant and comfort able mortuary viewing and vigil suites.

Air Conditioning - hospital is fully air-conditioned throughout.

Electricity Supply - hospital has its own 3MW electricity generator. Car Parking - full floor(80 spaces) exclusively for use of hospital visi tors.

Patient Entertainment Systemspurpose designed entertainment system in all patient areas with bed side LCD monitors with radio and television reception.

Hospital Garden - for use of pa-

The new hospital represents a "sea-change" in facilities compared to the current hospital, as well as offering new facilities which Gibraltar does not presently enjoy ices.

The main features are: -

BedsAVards - 212 beds in separate rooms comprising 1, 2, 3 or 4 beds including "en suite" facilities.

Radiology - In-house Mammography and IT Scanning facilities. Dig ital and computerised archiving and transfer of X-Rays, which en able digital X-Ray images to be beamed directly to a monitor at the patient's bedside and other clinical areas. New state of art X-Ray equipment and scanner.

ITU - expanded from 5 to 13 beds. Latest digital diagnostic and patient monitoring systems. Modern sys tem for delivery of all electrical and medical services to beds enables carers to have access all around patient bedside.

Operating Theatres - three mod em,fully equipped operating thea tre suites, especially prepared for orthopaedic, general and emer gency surgery.Purposely designed Post Anaesthetic Recovery Area. New,six station day-surgery suite. Sterilisation - latest sterilisation technology installed in a central sterilisation department.

Rehabilitation - Spacious and fully equipped Rehabilitation Depart ment, including an indoor hydrotherapy pool.

tients, staff and visitors.

Catering - latest catering tech niques will deliver a fully plated menu service.

Commenting on the new hospi tal, Chief Minister Peter Caruana said:"This magnificent new hospi tal represents half of the Govern ment's strategy to ensure that our health service is as modem,reliable, safe and accessible as it can reason ably be. The other half of the Gov ernment's strategy is the profound Clinical Review process which is already well advanced and which will ensure that we have the latest, safest and most reliable clinical practices to go with our new hos pital, as well as an end to waiting lists and private practice.

"The new hospital represents an investment of about £55 million, including more than £5 million of new and the very latest medical equipment. I think I can say with out fear of contradiction that NO community of 30,000 people any where on the planet enjoys a hos pital of this quality and standard, it is right that our health services should benefit in this way from the economic success of Gibraltar, for the benefit of current and future generations of Gibraltarians."

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Dr Carsten Rudolf Steiner BSc. DC Steiner Chiropractic Clinics. College Ciinic, Regal House. Tel: 75769

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Mike Clark BDS

The Main Street Dental Practice 180 Main Street Tel/Fax: 52882

Bruce Hogg BDS 62 Main Street, Suite 6. PO Box 909 Tel: 76817

Samuel ibgui BDS 62 Main Street. Suite 6. PO Box 909 Tel: 76817

Dr Keith J Vinnicombe BDS(Wales)LDS

RCS(Eng) MFGDP(UK1

Unit F5B, International Commercial Centre.2a Main Street. Tel/Fax:40747

Emergency After Hours: 78756

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Dr J. Shelley & Dr M. Salem College Clinic, Regal House. Queensway. Tel: 77777 Fax: 72791

E-mail: info@collegeclinic.gi

Website: www.collegeclinic.gi

HEALTH INSURANCE

Taurus Insurance Services Ltd Tel: 52776 www.taurusinsuranceservices.com

HEALTH STORES

The Health Store 5 City Mill Lane, Tel: 73765

HOMEOPATHS

Ken Oftedal, BSc, MAEHU At Claudia's Beauty Clinic (Fridays) 58 Main Street, 1st Floor Tel: 74040(or 952 89 64 24)

OPTICIANS / OPTOMETRISTS

Eye Studio Opticians Unit 20B Grand Casemates Tel: 47800 Fax: 47801

Cache & Co Limited 266 Main Street. Tel; 75757

L, M. Passano Optometrist 38 Main Street. Tel: 76544

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

Dr Erik Thomsen Foot & Orthopaedic Clinic 1st Floor ICC, Suite F7. Tel: 41576

PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

Francis Cassaglia

Foot & Orthopaedic Clinic 1st Floor ICC. Suite F7, Tel: 41576

G. Keuper-von Kader BRTRCREFITO

Healthier Life Clinic, 252/2-11 Main Street. Tel; 70421 Website: www.healthierlife.gi

Steven A, Soussi I.I.S.T, M.S.S.T. B.O.A Qftho Tech Cert, Orthosports 47 Governor's Street Tel: 44655 Urgent: 54013464

Workshop: 55b Devil's Tower Road

PODIATRIC SURGEON

Christopher Lees Foot & Orthopaedic Clinic 1st Floor ICC. Suite F7. Tel; 41576

REIKI

Marian Rush Fortunes, Casemates Square

Tel: 51058

Email: rush_about(§"hotmail-Com

SPORTS THERAPIST

Simon Coldwell Dip ftstlcsp iistwabba Unit G3. Eliott Hotel

2 Governor's Parade Tel:51113 Mobile: + 34 678857 185

Email: simon coldw8ll@hotmail.com

shopping & gifts

Out of Africa

MOROCCAN

When you care enough to send the very best

TECPy'S

FORTUNES

A Play for Today and tomorrow

Rebecca Faller's new play The Civil Garrison' is an entertaining, intriguing and well-researched drama about the relationship between the civil and military populations of Gibraltar... and a lot more.

The play, light but deep, starts with a bang as an 18th century military band of drums marches down the aisles and onto the stage, and a history of Gibraltar from the invasion by Tarik in 711 is recited.

The real action then moves to the beginning of the 1800s, and con versations quickly reveal that the Treaty of Utrecht is already consid ered by the Governor to be some what outdated, particularly its ban on Jews settling on the Rock, and Spain is still causing difficulties by its petty restrictions on merchant shipping and the high duty they charge for goods entering Gibral tar.

The clearly written natural dia logue follows the semi-fictitious Ansaldo family through the ages, each generation being played by the same actors with just their fash ions, first names and the setsshow ing that time has moved on. The Ansaldos are of Genoese origin and have been on the Rock since just after 1704.Similarly the chang ing governors and their aides are played by the same actors. Then, as now,there are restrictions on un licensed trading — although at that time it was aimed mainly at outsiders and was originally due to a major epidemic on the Rock. This leads to conflict between es tablished Main Street shopkeepers and newcomers from Britain who think that because Gibraltar is Brit ish it will automatically have the same laws as the UK. But one newly arrived would-be trader is rapturously welcomed when it turns out he is exactly what Gibral tar has been crying out for - an English plumber. And again, then as now,he has a lot of bureaucracy to go through before he is officially allowed to register for work with the Sanitary Commissioners, Gi braltar's controlling civilian body.

The action, never static, jumps ahead to the mid-18()0s, where the concern at the Governor's office is a petition from eight'Leading Citi zens of the Gibraltarian Commu nity', presented by a Catholic

priest and protesting at the Gov ernor's decision to restrict the numbers of Spanish coming to work and reside on the Rock.They are alarmed that this could lead to an influx of even more Maltese, particularly as they fear that only the'criminal scum'of Maltese life are attracted to Gibraltar. The governor,however,suddenly be lieves that the civilian popula tion should be allowed to de velop naturally and that the good relationship with Spain

By OA7 ecca Falle

The story moves on through the hopes of wealth that the building of the new dockyard is expected to bring to the trading community, whilst the family's oldest member tells of his grandmother's recollec tions of the Great Siege of 1779-83, and then we jump ahead to the Second World War — this play,al ways cohesive, never lingers long enough to be remotely boring and the grim stories of the evacu ation, when ail women, children and non-able-bodied men were sent away against the risk ofattack from the Vichy French, Italians, Germans — and Spanish. One scene is even set in the London Un derground,packed with evacuees.

Meanwhile, the Colonial Office's tardiness in returning all of the evacuees to Gibraltar is leading to the first stirrings of political con sciousness and the play moves steadily on,ending just about bang up-to-date with the referendum of No vember 2002.

Rebecca says she believes that a lot of people who go will see a political message delivered in an amusing way, but she emphasises that it's not a statement of her own politics, it's simply what hap pened. And she also sees it as a useful tool for teaching local his tory at school. 'I want young people to realise how we became what we are today,'she said.

— including the number of Span ish frontier workers — is some thing to be cultivated.

Within the space of minutes he has contradicted himself. I thought the author had made a mistake but

she clarified that this sort of thing actually happened and still docs happen, with those in power changing their tack within the same conversation. I think it's called 'diplomacy'.

It's planned that the play will be staged this autumn,and Leslie Zammitt has eagerly agreed to di rect it — a sure sign of success. Meanwhile the book has been sell ing well as it makes an enjoyable read in its own right. It's very rea sonably priced at £7 and can be bought at all local bookshops or by contacting Rebecca on rebecca@gibnet.gi. It's recom mended effortless reading for any one with any sort of interest in Gi braltar's story,and I hope the edu cation authorities take up her point that it should be fitted into the school curriculum.

The clearly written natural dialogue |foMows the semi-fictitious Ansaldo family| through the aces

'Decorative Crajti

I'd:

Send completed crossword to: The Cannon Bar, Cannon Lane, Gibraltar. One entry per person.

first PRIZE: Lunch for 2 at The Cannon Bar

Winner notified in ne.xt issue of The Gibraltar Magazine.

Closing date: 23th February 2U05

Last month's answers;Across;1.One hundred,7.Olympics,8,Slew, 9. Pond, 10. Chimera, 12. Assignments, 14. Shamble, 16. Knot, 19. Anon,20. Marathon,21. Contenders. Down;1. Oxlip,2. Ermines,3. Unit, 4. Dash home,5. Epsom.6. Metres, 11. Age limit, 12. Athens, 13. Nonette, 15. Mango, 17. Tools, 18. Iran.

Crossword Winner

Hilary Witics, I GtrmW Heifsc, King's Yard fjine

Across

1) In films he was known as The Man V\rith No Name but also called Dirty Harry (5,8)

8) This is one!(4)

9) Over the moon (8)

10) "Hole" where the golfer stops for a drink (10) •

12) There is one in each corner and one on each side of a snooker table (6)

14) First name of Fred Fllntstone's neighbovir and friend (6)

15) The limit of tree growth,especially on a mountain (6,4)

19) Goes first(5,3)

20) Want(4)

21) British newspaper published once a week (6,7)

Down

2) Name of Shirley Temple's"good ship"(8)

3) Daughter of one's brother or sister(5)

4) Iron or lead, for example(7)

5) Girl,(who might be lazy in the kitchen)!(5)

6) 4s(7)

7) Norse god (4)

11) Quality of being slim (8)

13) A type of grasshopper(7)Or,a girl performed (4,3)

14) Character from Song of the South (4,3)

16) Temperamental(5)

17) Ocean going passenger ship(5)

18) Handsome boyfriend (4)

After the Tercentenary time for Nelson - and the. Upper Rock

"Our Tercentenary Year 2004 went extrennely well for Gibraltar, both the high and low profile events. The high profile events — like the Street Party, the Freedom Parade for the Royal Navy,the Elton John concert, the 'holding hands' around the Rock and the Thanksgiving Service at St. Clement Dane's in London among many were matched by the low profile ones such as the museum lectures, the heritage walks, the numerous school projects, art and writing and drama — all served the overall celebration. Only low profile as they were not mass appeal. There was a tremendous response from everyone on the Rock not just Gibraltarians; everybody gave a hand and there was tremendous enthusiasm."

GTO Director of Tourism Peter Canessa was appointed Tercente nary'Events Director, an assign ment which commenced in Janu ary 2003, when Tourism Minister Joe Holliday was tasked by the Chief Minister to set up a 2004 Committee to plan and execute the Events.

"Initially, business people were approached to make a contribution - financial or organisational. Pub lic service people were brought in and committees were formed,such as Tourism, Heritage, Entertain ment & Culture,Commerce,Fundraising and Sports & Youth and each had their own committee re porting back. It was decided very early on that the 2004 Tercentenary would be a Celebration of our how we had grown as a British Gibral tar with our culture,education,so cial and judicial systems. It never intended as a re-enactment of a past battles at sea or on land. A skeleton programme was drawn up and all ideas discussed and con sidered — it was not set in stone, and many items came and went. The public had their input and sev eral of their ideas found their way onto the eventual Calendar of Events. Then the various commit tees had to make them happen, which they did.

"An early hope had been that we would be able to welcome Her Majesty the Queen, 50 years after her previous visit. This didn't ma terialise, but the visit of the Prin cess Royal,the Princess Anne, was acclaimed a great success.

"Tourism figures show that, at times,Gibraltar hotels were full as was Main Street and the tourism sites. Feedback from within the in dustry and at major events like Gi braltar Day in London demon strated that everyone was aware of what Gibraltar was celebrating. Gibraltar frequently made it onto television and into the pages of the National press.The Rock is still the

focus of many magazine articles. It was an opportunity for the inter ested to visit the Rock, especially many gibraltarians domiciled away from their homeland."

And now that 2004 is ended, how does the GTO plan for 2005?

"Well, we look forward to the bi centenary anniversary of the Bat tle of Trafalgar on October 21st.,

Betasnaui to October, such as boat racing or fishing. We know that present - day tourists are likely to be attracted by travel with a purpose and Gibral tar has much to offer. This Trafal gar commemoration,and the Nel son connection,is a case in point."

Peter, you have been in this Tour ism appointment for over seven years, are you happy with the

"Tourism figures show that, at times, Gibraltar hotels were full as was Main Street and the tourism sites"

which is essentially a Royal Navy event being looked after for us by our Ministry of Culture — through Albert Finlayson and Manolo Galliano.

The Trafalgar/Nelson com memoration is well featured in our Gibraltar Tourist Office brochure for 2005. Leading up to Trafalgar Day on 21st October, we shall be staging an event with a nautical theme on every Friday from July

product?

"Of course 1 am, but it can be frustrating. Tourists come to us with complaints, which we often have to accept are justified. But,of ten, we can do little about them. We are constrained by our budget,but we recognise that we are hardly the Govt.'s'No. One' priority. We are, naturally, well behind Housing, Health, Education, for example.

"Our priority this year is to up

grade all our tourist sites. In April we are commencing a three-tier, three- year campaign to improve the facilities of the Upper Rock for which the GTO is responsible.The access to the upper Rock was suit able for the tourism of the day when it was handed over by the MoD at the time of the closed fron tier. Now, each year, 750,000 peo ple visit the Upper Rock putting an enormous strain on the infrastruc ture.Our expert staff have listened to all the comments and drawn up a list of projects to which profes sional users — tour operators,taxi drivers, etc. have added their rec ommendations.

"A three-part strategy has been prioritised and work will com mence from Easter- improvements will be apparent by the summer. Our initial priority is safety for all who visit the Upper Rock - hand rails, steps etc. An approved in crease of £1.00 per person to the entrance fee will go towards the improvements.

"Traffic management has always been a problem and already we have been operating a restriction on visitors in private cars entering the Upper Rock during August be fore 3.00pm — drivers of foreign vehicles are advised at their point of entry and reminded at the Engi neers Road and Lathbury entry points to park in Town and use au thorised tours.

"It would be hard to sustain the level of interest generated by last year's events but we feel that in coming tourism is on an upward trend.

"More tlights have been sched uled by our current carriers GB Airways and Monarch and several others have shown an interest. Agreements of a political nature are likely to have a direct bearing on this.

In the longer term, two new ho tels are in the pipeline within the next five years."

The Royal Caipe

MACIEAN,STAIIN & SIKORSKI

For more than a decade now 1 have been researching the death in an aeroplane crash of General Wladyslaw Sikorski at Gibraltar on 4th July, 1943. I have written of the event several times in this magazine (see November) and in my book Strange But True Stories of Gibraltar if.

An official inquiry failed to find a cause for the crash of the B-24 Liberator bomber.Some suspected sabotage others wrote it off as an accident, probably due to over loading. A play, Soldiers, by the German writer Rolf Hochuth laid the blame with British Intelligence and Winston Churchill.

Hochuth claimed to have met a member of British Intelligence af ter the war who told them that"We killed Sikorski". Not surprisingly Hochuth reasoned that any order to kill a politician as prominent as the Polish President-in-Exile would have to have come from the top, the Prime Minister himself.

I believe that Sikorski was killed by British Intelligence but that the orders came not from Churchill, butfrom the Russian Premier Josef Stalin.Through the years bits of in formation I have gathered have re inforced that belief and over Christmas I came across another piece of circumstantial evidence that points to Stalin.

One of the Christmas presents I received was a book titled My Five Cambridge Friends (Headline 1994) by Yuri Modin.I have read numer ous books about the five infamous British spies—Kim Philby,Donald Maclean, Guy Burgess, Anthony Blunt and John Cairncross — but hadn't been aware that their Rus sian handler had written his own book about their work and his re lationships with them. The first thing I did was turn to the index and look for Sikorski.

I'm always shocked when books about the war, Stalin, or the various intelligence services, fail to mention Sikorski. It seems many his torians fail to acknowledge just how important the brave general was to the fu ture of Poland in post-war Europe.

"The same as Sikorski."

Modin didn't let me down and on page 121 he writes:

"The correspondence with Washington was of huge interest to us, as were the various commu nications between Maclean's min istry and the Allied forces sta tioned in England. Stalin, though he was officially the ally of Gen eral Wladyslaw Sikorski, the head of the Polish Government in exile, was deeply mistrustful of him. As a result he was enchanted one morning when detailed minutes of Sikorski's negotiations with the British, as well as Sikorski's rude

He was enchanted one m

orning when...

Sikorski's rude remarks about Stalin himself, arrived on his Kremlin desk

remarks about Stalin himself, ar rived on his Kremlin desk. All of this material was filched by Maclean.(Maclean had it posted to Washington on behalf of the For eign Office).

"It was also Donald Maclean who in April 1943 got the news through to the Centre that Sikorski didn't believe a word of the Rus sian version of the massacre of Katyn, according to which thou sands of Polish officers liquidated in that unhappy place were mur dered by the Germans. Stalin, of course, didn't give a hoot what Sikorski thought — only a scandal

There have been a few ex ceptions.In a book about the French Secret Service 1 came across a quote of Lavrenti Beria, the murderous head of the Russian KGB secret police,threatening to give a ^jj^Qfgjd General Kulael, Clementine and troublesome head of state, ambassador Count Raczynski

of global proportions could have shaken him.All the same when the Polish Government in London de manded an inquest by the Interna tional Red Cross, Stalin immedi ately broke off relations with it, in the knowledge that nothing could be gained by further co-operation."

Three months later Sikorski was dead.

At the time of the crash at Gibraltar Kim Philby was head of counter-intelligence for Spain, Portugal, Gibral tar and Tangier. He could easily have ordered the sabotage of Sikorski's Lib erator at Gibraltar. Sikorski his daughter and 14 others died in the crash.

Only the Czech pilot sur vived.

Sikorski's funeral

Sikorski and Smm

Winton Churchill and the Polish

hobbiesc pastimes

Itravel accommodationIlessons tuition

Queen s QMoiel

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)l

KIMBEL BEARS

I/7d Casemates Tel/Fax; 48857

E-mail: kimbel@gibnet.gi

4. The Nature Shop

The Eye Studio Opticians

10. Fortunes Inspirational Centre

11. Cafe Solo

12. Airs Well

14. Jana

19. The Silver Shop

21. Mineral World

22. Kimbel Bears

26. The Tunnel Bar

28. Lord Nelson Bar Brasserie

Open: Monday - Friday 9am • 5.30pm Saturday & Sunday 10am - 3pm

Watergate House, Casemates Square Tel/Fax: 74982

Email: tourism@gibraltar,gi

Website: www.gibraitar.gov.uk

Featiiered Pests...

Gibraltar has two particular pests. Ornithologist call the land-based ones pigeons and the marine birds seagulls but they are nevertheless pests as anyone strolling along Main Street or along a beach can attest.

So,tree of charge, I am prepared to divulge possible solutions. Seagulls navigate, apparently, by reference to the colour white. (Which explains an odd sign I once saw in a Portuguese hotel stating that guests should not hang white towels over the bal cony as it"confuses the seagulls". First impressions were an error in translation but it turned out to be accurate).

So an opportunity was missed during the Tercentenary celebra tions when so many of us held hands around the Rock. We have to organise this again but each pair of locked hands should hold part of the edge of a enormous white sheet.

Providing stamina allowed this to continue for, ooh say, half an hour the seagulls should be so be fuddled they could end up any

where. Anywhere but Gibraltar being the fervent hope.

If this fails, then gourmets can tell us that seagull eggs are a deli cacy.

And so is pigeon pie. Now given that Simple Simon would have to meet the pieman several thousand times to solve this pest problem,it is up to all of us to ask for pigeon pie at the local pie shop.And for seagulls'eggs at the egg shop.

Ifenough people make these re quest the pieman and the eggman, assuming they are astute busi nessmen (or businesswomen — I refuse to use such an awkward construction as "businesspeople"), will see the conunerdal ben efits in rounding up all the pi geons and seagulls'eggs they can lay their hands on to meet the de mand.

It is also possible,I say in all ig norance, for courier firms to save on freight charges by training pi geonsto carry small items of mail. This, at least, would get them out of Gibraltar for part of the time,

Not on the cards is the employ ment of Dick Dastardly and Muttley since, if they ever suc ceeded in their mission to "catch that pigeon" their TV careers would presumably be over!

Th Funicular rroject

The proposed funicular project was officially introduced to Gibraltar at a press conference at the Eliott Hotel in mid-January to mixed reactions. The project is to be sited on waste ground (currently a basketball pitch) above Landport Ditch close to the Royal Bank of Scotland and will rise to the top of the Rock by the North Face, giving access to the Northern Defences.

'There is an ancient proverb

transport systems and ropew 'where there is no vision, the peo ple perish'.In other words, we must ail have ambition, goals and focus to give our lives a sense of purpose and direction," said Leslie Ratcliffe, the promoter and Director of 21st Century Rock Ltd, who has been visiting Gibraltar for over 25 years.

"My introduction to Gibraltar was through a then young profes sional James Levy who was working in the office of Sir Joshua Hassan at Library Ramp. It was difficult not to be impressed by Sir Joshua and his goals for Gibraltar. I became an investor in Gibraltar over 20 years ago,through this con nection."

Mr Ratcliffe approached the MoD initially through the HQ near Swindon to test the ground for their cooperation in handing back land at the top of the Rock to GoG. He was told by many professional and learned Gibraltarians that this would be a difficult almost impos sible task. He was also advised by Brian Francis and initially the first discussion with the MoD took ap proximately six months to complete when they authorised a full techni cal feasibility survey to be carried out in September 2002.

Mr Ratcliffe said, "I believe Gi braltar has a unique opportunity to enhance its heritage to the advan tage of the people of the world. I have been looking at this opportu nity over the time I've been visit ing Gibraltar and hearing everyone talk about it. 1 decided some5 years ago to try to do something to pro mote Gibraltar on a global basis. 1 believe the Gibraltar Funicular Project will achieve the result of opening up the heritage route to all (including the disabled)."

This is not a view shared by all of Gibraltar's community. Strong opposition to the project has come from the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society who claim that the impacton Gibraltar's delicate fauna and flora has been underestimated. GONHS's con cern is that the area proposed for the project is one of the few areas of untouched "countryside" Gibral tar has left, and is habitat to rare and protected species of bird and plants, some of which are unique to the Rock.

his

access to views from a part of the Rock hitherto inaccessible. The scheme will attract extra tourists to Gibraltar which will potentially increase the tourism spend in Gibraltar on shopping, meals and general leisure. At tracting extra tourists to Gibral tar is in line with the Govern ment's key objectives and the project has received their official support.

Overall it is believed that the scheme will enhance the status of Gibraltar as a geographical,

to be

by Sir Joshua

The Gibraltar Heritage Trust has also expressed opposition to the project on the grounds that it may affect Gibraltar's bid to be classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However the following observa tions have been made to the Devel opment& Planning Commission in regard to the project and Leslie Radcliffe was keen to present them to the public;

• The £15.5m scheme offers Gi braltar the chance to realise a brand new world class tourist attraction.

• The scheme will incorporate a major cultural and heritage ex perience which will support and build upon the renowned herit age and history of Gibraltar.

• The scheme offers the residents of Gibraltar and visitors swift

historical and cultural landmark and the top station deserves to be a recognisable landmark building.

• The environmental effects both in the construction phase and ongoing will be mitigated by the use of sympathetic construction techniques and building mate rials.

A project of this size inevitably has required detailed studies of many issues. In response to this, 21st Century Rock Ltd has been working closely with the following professional team to cover the ma jor aspects of environmental, herit age, architectural,engineering and geotechnicnal issues.

Bureau Technique Paul Glassey SA is a Swiss civil engineering com pany who have specialised in cable

ays

for 35years, based in Valais, Swit zerland. The idea to build a funicu lar here in Gibraltar is as a result of their first visit here three years ago to do a feasibility study. Currently working internationally in USA, China, Korea and Tenerife, they provide innovative solutions to aerial transport systems covering feasibility studies, technical solu tions, terminal design and liaison between project developers and manufacturers.

Wessex Archeology, the largest multi-disciplinary heritage practice in Europe with a staff of approx 200 based in Salisbury and London, will be involved in this project to assist in the protection and en hancement of the historic assets of Gibraltar which may be affected by the funicular. Their focus is on mini mising damage and maximising benefit through hand-in-hand guidance during design, develop ment and future operation of the project.

Specialising in Europe and the UK, Wessex has worked in Gibral tar with GoG on the Moorish Cas tle conservation statement and fea sibility study during the last five years. They take pride in showing heritage as an asset and learning tool rather than as a barrier to change.

The studies focus of Golder As sociates (specialists in ground en gineering and environmental sci ence since 1960)is on foundations, the stability of historic walls, rock slopes and tunnels. With 3,000staff operating in 150 countries world wide, they have worked in Gibral tar with GoG since 1984 on numer ous geotechnic projects.

Foster and Partners, an interna tional studio for architecture, plan ning and design led by Norman Foster and a group of senior part ners, is based in London but has project offices in a dozen different countries.

'The Foster design for the funicu lar will provide residents and tour ists with easy access to a stunning view from the Rock, creating a world-class tourist attraction.'

Since its foundation in 1967, the practice has been responsible for a strikingly wide range of projects, from urban master plans, airports,

A model of the funicular is on show

"It was difficult not

impressed

and

goals for Gibraltar. I became an investor in Gibraltar over 20 years ago,through this connection."

dvic and cultural buildings,offices and work places to private houses and product design.

In recent years the practice has complet&d projects as diverse as the new German Parliament in Berlin, the international airport in Hong Kong,the great court at the British Museum in London, the London Headquarters for Swiss Re and the Millau viaduct in France. Current projects include the new airport in Beijing for the 2008 Olympics.

nesses.

Given the nature of the project, specialists will be brought in from the UK and Switzerland to carry out those aspects that demand spe cialist skills not available here.

The developers and the design team are therefore confident that all the consultations with regard to environment,heritage,engineering and architectural issues have been covered.

The project(including plans and

The local company which has been given the green light as the preferred construction managers is Sharrock Shand. They will ensure that all aspects of the design are optimised to achieve ease of con struction, to fully comply with safety standards and to minimise environmental impact.

The largest locally based contrac tors with over 20 years'experience of contracting in Gibraltar they have the specialist civil engineering skills required to fulfil the needs of a project of this nature.They intend to ensure that as much of the work as possible is carried out by either their own local labour force or that it is subcontracted to local busi-

a model) will be on public display from Thursday 13th until Friday 21st January in the John Mackin tosh Hall which is open from 9.30am to 11pm. There will be a member of the team present be tween 5-6pm each day to assist with any enquiries.

"It has been proved how heritage and state of the art architecture can be married together in perfect har mony (eg. at The Louvre). Gibral tar has to get there at some point," commented Peter Canessa, Direc tor of the Gibraltar Tourist Board. "We are smartening up an old town and it is time to bring it into the 21st Century. Change is good and can be managed to benefit all."

"It has been proved how heritage and state of the art architecture can be married together in perfect harmony (eg. at The Louvre).

Arts b Crtifts

Tha Alts 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. 79788,

The Fine Arts Association Gailery 1 st Floor above Gibraltar Crvstal, Casemates. Open 11am-2pm, 4-6pm Mon • Fri, Sat 11am2pm. 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. Contact: Audrey Batty on 44355

Boiiiil Ci.nues

Chess Club meets in Studio 1. John Mackmtosn Hali 8-10 30pm Tues.

The Gibraltar Scrabble Club meet John Mackintosh Hall Mondays. Bank holidays changed to Thursday same week. 7pm1 Ipm All welcome. Tel: 73660 or 75995.

The Subbuteo Club meets Charles Hunt Room, John Mackintosh Hall 7.30 -11pm,

D.i/j'.f

Modern6 Latin American Sequence Danc ing Mondays Catholic Community Centre

8.30pm (beginners 7,30). Over 15s welcome, wwwgibnynexgi/insi/cccseqdance/

Old b Modern Sequence Dancing sessions at the Catholic Community Centre at 8pm, beginners at 7.30pm, Wednesday.

The DSA Old & Modern Sequence Danc ing sessions at Central Hall Fridays 8pm, be ginners 7.30pm, Tel : 78282 or e-maii manvio@gibnet.gi Everybody welcome.

Senior Citizens Teatime Dances at The Youth Centre, Line Wall Rd on Mondays 25.30pm. All senior citizens welcome for cof fee, tea and biscuits. Entrance free.

Classical Ballet classes for children 4-r-, 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.

Line Dancing GGCA Hall, Margraves Ramp. Weds 7-8pm beginners;8-9pm improvers; 9-1 Opm advanced. All welcome, including visitors to Gib, Tel Helen 50381 /54013760.

Histoiy b Htuhixjfi

The Gibraltar Heritage Trust The Main Guard, 13 John Mackintosh Sq Tel: 42844.

The Gibraltar Classic Vehicle Association Dedicated to preservation of Rock's transpoa/motoring heritage. Assists members in restoration / maintenance of classic vehicles.

Members/vehicles meet first Sunday of month,Safeway's car park from 10am. New members welcome. Tel: 72481 Fax: 72033,

Music

The Gibraltar Music Centre Trust Complete spectrum of instrument learning strings drums etc. Theory lessons-Five days a week 4pm-9om, Tel: 75558 for details.

The Gibraltar National Choir and Gibral tar Junior National Choir rehearse on Mon day and Thursday 7,30pm -9pm. New sing ers of all ages always welcome. Tel: Liii 40035, 54006727

Outdoor Activities

The Caipe Ramblers This group walks on the last Sunday of each month, except July and August. Meeting place is on the Span ish side of the frontier at Sam just to the right of and opposite the Aduana vehicle exit. For any information contact either Ray

Murphy 71956 or John Murphy 74645, the two co-ordinators of the group.

Quizzes

Cannon Bar quizzes are held on Tuesdays with at least three quizzes per night. Start ing with a warm up,then two other quizzes, including a theme quiz. Starts at 8.30pm, all welcome and prizes are given. Free en trance but a donation to charity is requested. Tapas served after the quiz.

The Edinburgh Arms, Naval Hospital Road, has a quiz night from 8.30pm every Monday with prizes and free tapas.

The Tunnel in Casemates has a pub quiz and entertainment on Sunday nights.

Social Cliihs

Scots on the Rock; Any Scots visiting the Rock can contact Charles Poison (Tel: 78142) for assistance or information.

Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes(Gi braltar Province) meets at RAOB Club, Vault

1 Jumpers Bastion on these days: Provin cial Grand Lodge. 1st Monday of month, 8pm. Executive Meeting,last Mon of month

7pm. Knights Chapter, 2nd Mon of month

7.30pm. Examining Council. 3rd Mon of month 7pm. William Tllley 2371.Thurs 8pm. Buena Vista 9975, Weds (fortnightly) 7pm.

Pof Favor 9444,Weds(fortnightly)7pm.Fare well 10001, Tues 8.30pm. Goldacre 10475 (social)last Fri of month 8pm.

The Tuesday Ladies' Club meets 8pm, Queensway Club on first Tuesday each month. Open to all women in Gibraltar who enjoy making new friends. Non-profit mak ing, proceeds donated to charity. Tei: Anne 43869, or Margaret 70816.

Special Interest Clubs b Societies

Gibraltar Horticultural Society meets first Thurs of month 6pm,John Mackintosh Hall.

Annual Spring Flower Show, Also slide shows, demos on flower arrangements and outings to garden centres plus annual tour of Alameda Gardens. All welcome.

Gibraltar Internet Club monthly meetings held on Mondays at the College of Further Education 7-9pm. All welcome,experienced surfers or beginners. A number of comput ers are connected to the internet, others have programs for creating of web pages. A colour scanner is also available,

Tha Gibraltar Photographic Society meets on Mon at around 8om, Wellington Front. Basic courses, competitions etc. UN Association of Gibraltar PO Box 599, 22a Main Street. Tel 52108.

Sports Supporters Clubs

Tottenham Hotspur Supporters' Club. Commorant Wharf Boat Owners' Club. For details/fixtures Tel: Mario 40240, Michael 55185,John 43166, Tito 70410, Dick 79000, John 59804 or Raju 76176.

Sports b Fitness

Artistic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Artistic Gym nastics Association club for beginners,jun iors and squad at Bayside School in eve nings. Tel: Angela 70611 or Sally 74661.

Athletics: GibraitarAmateur Athletics Asso ciation holds competitions throughout year for juniors, adults and veterans. Two main clubs (Calpeans 71807, Lourdians 75180)

hold training sessions at Victoria Stadium. Badminton: Recreational badminton is avail able weekdays at Victoria Stadium (Tel: 78409 for allocations). Gibraltar Badminton Association (affiliated to IBA 8 EBA) has leagues and training for adults and second ary school. Tel: Ivan 44045 or Linda 74753.

Basketball: Gibraltar Amateur Basketball Association (affiliated FIBA) leagues/ train ing for minis, passarelle. cadets,seniors and adults at a variety of levels. Tel: John 77253. Randy 40727 or Kirsty (minis)49441.

Billiards 6 Snooker: Gibraltar Billiards and Snooker Association (member IBSA) round leagues and competitions at various venues. New members welcome. Tel: Eddie 72142 or Peter 77307.

Boxing: Gibraltar Amateur Boxing Associa tion(member lABA)gym on Rosia Rd. Over 13s welcome to join. Tuition with ex-pro boxer Ernest Victory(75513 w,42788 h).

Canoeing: Gibraltar Canoeing Association. Tel: Nigel 52917 or Eugene 58014000.

Cricket: Gibraltar Cricket Association(mem ber ICC) runs leagues/competitions at Europa Point/Victoria Stadium.Junior/senior training. Tel: Tom 79461 or Adrian 44281.

Cycling: Gibraltar Cycling Association vari ous cycling tours. Tel: Uriel 79359. Darts: Gibraltar Darts Association(member WDF)adult/junior leagues/competitions. Tel: Tony 70379 or Harry (Junior darts)41798.

Football: Gibraltar Football Association runs leagues/competitions for all ages October • May. Futsal in summer months,Victoria Sta dium. Tel: 42941 www.gfa.gi. Senior Tel: Albert 41515, Junior Tel: Richard 58654000, Women's Tel: Brian 52299. Recreational footbail for over 35s Tel: Richard 70320.

Golf: Med Golf tournaments held monthly. Tel: 79575 for tournament venues/dates. Gi braltar Golf Union has competitions through year, EGU handicaps. Tei: Bernie 78844.

Hockey: Gibraltar Hockey Association(mem bers FIH & EHF)high standard competitions/ training for adults and juniors. Tel: Eric 74156 or Peter 72730.

Judo: Gibraltar Judo Association UKMAF recognised instructors for all ages and lev els at Budokai Martial Arts Centre, Welling ton Front. Tel: Charlie73116orPeter73225.

Ju-jltsu: Gibraltar Ju-jitsu Academy training and grading for juniors/seniors held during evening at 4 North Jumpers Bastion (Rosia Rd). Tel: Tony 79855 or club 47259.

Karate-do Shotokai: Gibraltar Karate-do Shotokai Association sessions for junior/sen iors, gradings and demos at Karate Club house,41H Town Range Tel: Andrew48908.

Motorboat Racing: Gibraltar Motorboat Racing Association Tel: Wayne 75211.

Natball: Gibraltar Netball Association (affili ated FENA & IFNA) competitions through year,senior /junior leagues.Tel: Moira 41795 or Suzette'41874.

Patanqua: Gibraltar Petanque Association plays at Giralda Gardens,Smith Dorrien Ave. New members welcome. Tel: Rands 70929.

Pool: Gibraltar Pool Association (member EUKPF) home and away league played on Thurs through season. Tel: Linda 74753.

Rhythmic Gymnastics: Gibraltar Rhythmic Gymnastics Association run training ses sions for girls 5-18 years weekday evenings during school holidays. Tel: Richard 70320.

Rugby; Gibraltar Rugby Football Union train ing sessions for Colts (14-(-), seniors and veterans. Play in Andalusia 2nd Division Oct -April. Tel: Dennis 74600 or Michael 72982.

Sailing: Gibraltar Yachting Association jun ior/senior competitive programme through season (April - Oct)Tei: RGYC48847.

Sea Angling: Gibraltar Federation of Sea Anglers (members FIPS-M & CiPS) Superb calendar of events with four clubs partici pating, Tel: Mario 72622 or Charlie 74337.

Shooting: Gibraltar Shooting Federation over14sonly. Rifle. Europa Point range (Tei: Joe 749731: clay pigeon. East Side(Tel: Harry 74354), Pistol, facilities near Royal Naval Hospital (Tel: Fidel 71990),

Skating: Gibraltar Skating and Xtreme Sports Association opens its Skate Park, Coaling Island, Queensway. Mon - Ri 5-8pm,

Sat 2-6pm. State of art ramps for Xtreme/ aggressive roller blading /skate boarding. Leisure skating facilities provided within ex cellent rink(when not used tor roller hockey training). Tel: Eric 70710(after 5)or just turn up.

Snorkelling6Spear Fiahlng; Over 14s wel come for snorkelling, over 16s for spear fish ing. Tei: Joseph 75020.

Squash: Gibraltar Squash Association, The Squash Centre, South Pavilion Road(mem bers WSF6 ESF). Adult/|uniortournaments/

coaching. Tel: Ronnie 44922 or Barry 73260.

Sub-Aqua: Gibraltar Sub-Aqua Association taster dives for over 14s, tuition from local clubs. Voluntary sports clubs: Tel: Phil 44606, Noah's Dive Club Tel: Leslie 79601, 888s Dive Club Tel; Martin 70944. Commer cial sports diving schools also available.

Swimming: Gibraltar Amateur Swimming Association(member FINA & LEN)opens its pool for leisure swimming Mon • Fri 78.45am, 12-4pm, 8-9pm. Junior lessons (Rebecca 71342), squad for committed swimmers, water polo(Chris 72869).

Table Tennis: Gibraltar Table Tennis Asso ciation(members ITTA)training /playing ses sions, Bishop Fitzgerald School, Weds 610pm,Thurs 8-10pm, Tel: Lisanne45071 or Eugene 58014000.

Taekwondo: Gibraltar Taekwondo Associa tion classes/gradings Tel: Mari 44142.

Tennis: Gibraltar Tennis Association, Sand pits Tenr>is Ciub. excellent junior develop ment programme. Courses for adults, leagues / competitions. Tel: Frank 77035. Ten-Pin Bowling; Gibraltar Ten Pin Bowling Association(members FIG & WTBA)leagues at Ultra Bowl,training for juniors and squad. Tel: Gary 42447 or Charlie 71125.

Triathlon: Gibraltar Triathlon Union (mem bers ITU) Tel: Chris 75857 or Harvey 55847.

Volleyball: Gibraltar Volleyball Association (members W & EVF)training, leagues,com petitions for juniors/seniors. Tel: Tony 40478 or Elizabeth 58306000.

Yoga: Integral Yoga Centre runs a full pro gram of classes from Mon-Fri at 33 Town Range. Tel: 41389. All welcome.

Theatrical Groups

Gibraltar Amateur Drama Association 310 Main Street. President - Joe Gomez 47007, Secretary - Joe Cortes 70940, Treasurer • Howard Danino 74657.

Rock Dramatics drama group for children aged 4-17. Rehearsals every Saturday morning at St Andrew's Hall — all children welcome Tel: 47555 for information.

Stage Musicals Group meets Tues•Thurs at the Drama Association premises. Call Iris on 73098 for info.

Trafalgar Theatre Group meet 2nd Wed of month. Garrison Library 8pm. All welcome.

Clubs and Groups should submit details to The Gibraltar Magazine, PO Box 561, PMB 6377, S3D International Commercial Centre, Main Street Fax: 77748 for inclu sion in this guide.

Support Groups/Associations

Alcoholics AnonYinous meet 7pm lues and Thurs. 11am Sat at Nazareth Hse Tel; 73774.

Citizens' Advice Bureau Open Monday • Fnday9.30-12.30 and 2.30•4.30. Tel: 40006

Email info@cab.gi or visit 10 Governor's Lane. No appointment necessary, no charge.

Gibraltar Cardiac Rehabilitation and Sup port Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at8.30pm at the John Mac Hall, except for July and August,

Gibraltar Marriage Care. Free relationship counselling, including pre-marriage educa tion(under auspices of Catholic Church, but open to all). Tel: 71717.

Gibraltar Societyforthe Visuaiiy Impared. Tel: 50111 (24hr answering service).

Hope.Support after miscarriage Tel: 41817.

Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 70720

Overeaters Anonymous support group of those with compulsive overeating problem. Tel: helpline for details of meetings 42581.

Psychological Support Group. Nazareth House. Group therapy Tuesdays 7-9pm [so cial, crafts, games, music etc.). Workshop Thursdays 2pm-4pm. Tel: 51623.

With Dignity Gibraltar friendly support group for separated, divorced, widowed or unattached people. Regular meetings Weds 9pm at Catholic Community Centre. Line Wall Rd. Outings and activities. Tel: Pili 71824 or Gladys on 71465.

Women in Need. Voluntary organisation for all victims of domestic violence. Refuge available. Tel: 42581 {24 hours).

Women's Aid. Aims to protect women and children from violence. Tel: 41999.

Reading Around the Rock

The Real Tom Dollar

I first came across Tom Dollar when I pur chased a book at a sec ond hand shop in Lon don ten years ago.

The factual book tells of what a sailor's life was like through the ages stretching from the 16th Century to modern times.

There was only one paragraph concerning Tom Dollar.

It told of how he had landed at Gibraltar in 1860 from the merchant ship London. He and the other crew had re ceived their wages and so were in a festive mood.

to traffic in humans long after it had been abolished throughout the British Empire.

JAccordingly I gave Tom a white father, Joshua Dollar,a captain in the Royal Navy,and a black mother. Melody, an American slave.As I am a history buff I also wanted to bring in true stories of great events of the era and so managed to have Tom's father sail several famous on

ships and fight at the battle of Trafalgar.

Chtirc.h Services

Bahia Tel 43637 for meetings.

Church of England Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Tel 78377. Sung Eucharist. Sunday 1030am. Sunday School.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Suite 21a Don House. 30-38 Main Street Tel: 50433. Sundays 10am.

Church of Scotland St Andrew's, Gover nor's Pde. Tel: 77040. Worship & Sunday School 10.30am. Bible Study Tues 7.30pm.

Evangelical Bretheren Assembly. Queensway Quay. Sun 11am. Tues Bible

Study 6pm.Thurs Prayer Meeting 6pm.

Hindu Er\gineef's Lane Tel: 42515.

Jehovah's Witness Line Wail RdTel: 50186.

Jewish 10 Bomb House Lane Tel: 72606.

Methodist 297 Main St Tel: 77491. Sunday services 11 am &7pm,Midweek Fellowships.

Roman Catholic Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned. 215 Main St Tel: 76688.

Support Groups and Churchesshouldsub

mit details to The Gibraltar Magazine,PO

Box 561, PMB 6377, S3D International Commercial Centre. Main Street Fax: 77748 for inclusion in this guide.

The prostitutes and barkeepers of Gibraltar welcomed them and plied them with drink in the hopes of parting the sailors from as much of their hardearned money as possi ble. Not surprisingly many of the sailors got very drunk and there was much fighting. In one fight Tom Dollar killed a soldier. In the subsequent trial he was sentenced to ten years in jail. Later two soldiers, who coincidentally had testi fied against Tom,got in a fight and one killed the other. The soldier was sentenced to hang.

That's all there was to the story (except for a shocking twist which can be found in my novel) and I was intrigued. You see Tom Dol lar was black! It's hard to imag ine that in 1860 a black sailor would get only ten years in jail for killing someone while a white sol dier would be sentenced to hang for the same crime.

Obviously there were extenuat ing circumstances but the book did not say what they were.

I loved the story and

the

nameTom Dollar which was not his real name but a nickname popularly given to black sailors of the day. I decided that there was a novel here (and hopefully one

Naturally Gibraltar had to play a major role so I brought Joshua and Melody,and later Tom, to Gibraltar.

I also gave Tom a Gi braltar girl-friend of Irish-Portuguese ex traction with a wealthy father in the tobacco business. Through these connections 1 was able to bring Irish Town, the Alameda Gardens, the Moorish Castle,the harbour. Main Street and more of Gibraltar into the story.

to the story

The resulting novel gives the reader a good look at Gibraltar of the 19th Century and tells the tale of Tom Dollar and the killings in I believe a realistic manner, while maintaining the basic facts.

day a movie)and set about creat ing a life for Tom Dollar.I wanted to bring in the historx'of the slave trade to the Americas and dem onstrate how the Royal Navy did so much to try and curtail the hor rible practise. Modern books and films seldom illustrate how Brit ain fought hard, with arms and money,to prevent other countries like France, Spain, Portugal and the United States from continuing

I am planning a sequel which will also revolve around true events that took place in Gibral tar.

The Revenge of Tom Dollar (DeBarr 264 pp) is available throughout Gibraltar for £5.95.Or you can order by post for £9.95. Make cheques payable to Reg Reynolds and write to him c/o Cfbraltar Magazine.

In my book The Revenge of Tom Dollar the hero is a fictional character but is based on a real person who killed a man in Gibraltar in 1860.

That

's all there was

(except for a shocking twist hich can be found in my novel)

From Charlton to Gibraltar

"1 had a spell as reserve keeper at Cambridge United as a teenager, before going back to Harlow Town, where Charlton came calling when I was 18.1 joined their staff as one of their reserve keepers until I got my chance. I was first-choice for five years picking up'Player of the Year'for 1976/7.1 had always been interested in coaching and set offon my travels around the world with a spell in Denmark,before keeping for Colchester.

"It was at my next stop that 1 can claim my greatestsuccess.Qualify ing for the European Cup with H.J.K. Helsinki (Finland) we were drawn against the mighty Liver pool of those days — Souness, Dalglish, Rush etc. We won our

Charlton helping to set up their Academy and Centre of Excellence. One of our products is Paul Jones on loan to Exeter City — 'man of the match'against Manchester Utd, at Old Trafford. He was another football mad youngster coming to us at the Valley as an eight year old.

"1 had several spells with Westside EC (USA) teaching 'an understanding of the game and development of skills at all levels' and went back to Malta as head Coach / Manager ofSliema Wander ers, qualifying them for the Uefa Cup. Back in the UK, I have been involved in coaching positions with Colchester,St. Albans and Harlow Town, never away from football, before coming out to the Costa and

home leg 1-nil and 1 received'Man of the Match'.

"In my Keeper/Coaching career 1 have enjoyed several champion ship and cup successes around the globe, notably in Malta with Rabat Ajax and more European participa tion. I've also had spells at Happy Vallev FC(Hong Kong),Exeter City, Grankulla IFK and Kuanlaistan of Finland before returning to the UK for several coaching and manage ment positions culminating as short-term manager at Brighton & Hove Albion, before making way for Mickey Adams. 1 transferred and had a great time at Chesham Utd. where our keeper was Delroy Preddie who was seen recently with Yeading against Newcastle. Intermittently, 1 was involved with

setting up Charlton Athletic Euro pean Soccer Schools at Nerja and Torrox, while being contracted by other Clubs and Schools. We have a team of well-qualified, experi enced coaches and have already been able to recommend some promising young players back to Charlton.

"And now to the Rock of Gibral tar where 1 have been contracted and very well received by the GFA, the school teachers and the young sters. In meetings with the teach ers 1 have stressed that football should be taught like any other sub ject- with its own curriculum and preparation if the youngsters are to get the best out of it. I've been told that the kids can't get too much football.

"GFA has made a start with the FA Coaching Level One Award and a Referee's course for Under 15s;in February there will be a Goalkeep ers Award (24-26th) and a Condi tioning Games and Practices(20th); but we must build up qualified

coaches. We will be holding a UEFA Part 1 Course (5-13th March).

"I think it will take my whole three- year contract to getthe Coach Education programme in placebut it is the only way ahead for lo cal football."

The Charlton Athletic connection features prominently on Jeff Wood's CV

"I have been contracted and very well received by the GFA,the school teachers and the youngsters"

Med Golf Update.

Thelatest Med Golfoutingsaw

Dan Aldridge come out on top when nearly 70 golfers com peted for the Smarties Bar (Woodhall Spa) Trophy at Alcaidesa.

Dan is the first player in the new golfing season to book his place in the SG Hambros Med Golf Masters to be held at Valderrama in November 2005. In second place was Albert Sheriff, with Joe Sanchez coming a close third and Joe also took the prize for best gross score on the par 3s, as well as "top team" with his brother Nicky. In what was a very good scoring day, Michael Allobella re corded the best gross score with a fine round of 70.Top lady was Julie Brewer and getting off to a good

start for the new competition sea son was Rob Whatley as top sen ior. The "star quality" player was Paul Singleton.

Nearest the pins winners on the par 3 holes were Boyd Wood,Julie Brewer, Chris Brown. Gladys d'Mello and two for Joe Greatbach.

There are another 11 competitions over the coming months

There are another 11 competitions over the coming months for Med Golf mem bers to secure their place at Valderrama for the SG Hambros Med Golf Masters in 2005, with the next event being the Gibraltar Gala Casino Trophy at Almenara on Sun day 23th January 2005. For details visit www.teetimespain.com or you can enter by e-mailing Johnathan Goodson on jg@meedgolf.gi or ringing him on Spain 639741886.

Datesfor your Diary...

Tues ^th to Thurs 3rd February

Third Gibtelecom Chess Festival. Gibtele.com Masters. Open to all includ ing the Atlantic Suites Women's Awards

Sun 30th Jan to Thurs 3rd Feb

Saccone 8 Speed Challengers b Victor Chandler Amateurs

Sat 5th Feb to Sun 6th Feb

Hassans 6 Royal Bank of Scotland Jun ior

InvHatlon SG Hamb ip id Golf Ma

Dan Aldridge collecting the Smarties Bar(Wooilhall Spal Trophy from eventsponsor Trevor ffiatt.

Young Briton Chases Record & Slocum's Spirit

Sailors who have sailed around the world single handed are a breed all their own. Briton Ellen MacArthur is the latest in a select group who have followed in the wake of the first solo 'around the world' navigator Joshua Slocum.

At the time of writing the 28year-old lass from land-locked Der byshire had her 75-foot trimaran B & Q nearly five days ahead of the 'singlehanded' record pace set by Frenchman Frances Joyon last Feb ruary.

MacArthur must finish on 9Feb ruary to break the record of 72 days,22 hours,54 minutes and 22 seconds.

"This is undoubtedly tougher than anything I've done before," said MacArthur, MBE, who be camethe youngest person and fast est woman to sail around the world in 2001.

Although MacArthur is demon strating great bravery as she faces gale-force storms and other haz ardous conditions (60-foot waves at one point)she does have the ad vantage of sailing in a state-of-theart sailboat with all of the modern technology whereas Slocum sailed on an old wooden boat with little more than a sextant and compass to assist him. On the other hand MacArthur is sailing non-stop while Slocum made numerous stops and took more than two years to complete his voyage.

The Joshua Slocum Society, which records all singlehanded around-the-world voyages (55 to date), rules that "...a'singlehanded' voyage can be made with stops but it is not permitted to have addi tional crew or assistance while ad vancing the boat's position as it transits toward the next destina tion." For example. Englishman Edward Allcord took 16 years(1957 to 1973) to complete his circum navigation.

Needless to say the modern rac ers like MacArthur don't bother stopping at Gibraltar but Slocum made a point of calling at the Rock in the summer of 1895.

Joshua Slocum was born in the maritime province of Nova Scotia in Canada but he had ties with New England and was living on the island of Nantucket off the state of Massachusetts when he set out on his now famous 'round-theworld' adventure.

Retired at the age of 51,Slocum was a true man of the sea and had

Iyears ofexperience sailing all man ner and size of vessel. He chose for his voyage the 37-foot sloop Spray which he had rescued from a field.

She was so badly neglected that he had to virtually rebuild her to make her suitable for such an ar duous trip. The Spray was an unu sual little rig descended from North Sea fishing boats and adapted for sword fishing off the Eastern seaboard of the United States.

Experienced sailors told Slocum he was mad to attempt to circum navigate the world in such an un-

the first eight days and after just 18 days landed at Faial in the Por tuguese owned Azores. Faial is one of nine islands in the archipelago and is a favourite stop for yachts men to this day, Slocum found the islanders so hospitable that he stayed on for four days. Unfortunately a wellintentioned gift offresh plumsand cheese gave him food-poisoning and caused him to become deliri ous.

Fortunately he managed to dou ble-reef the mainsail before collaps ing in his cabin.

come to aid you. Lie quiet, seflor captain and 1 will guide your ship tonight.'"

In his book,Sailing Alone Around the World, Slocum described con versations with the man and of how he found his sea shanties so annoying.

"I suppose I was now on the mend,for 1 was peevish,and com plained:'I detest your jingle. Your Azore should be at roost, and would have been were it a respect able bird!"'

The mysterious figure piloted the Spray through a gale and when Slocum finally regained his senses the Spray was on course and "go ing like a race-horse".

Slocum's description of his sav iour is very curious. The attire he ascribes to the vision fits that of a Portuguese or Spanish sailor of the 15th Century.The pilot of the Pinta on Columbus' first voyage to America was Juan Pinzon of Palos, Spain. Columbus did land on the island of Santa Maria, the most southerly of the islands of the Azores,on his return from America in 1493.

Slocum's next port of call was Gibraltar,the Spnri/ arriving at3pm on 4th August 1895. The visit got off to a poor start when Slocum was unable to produce a 'bill of health' for the port doctor. He de cided the best way to handle the gruff doctor was to be equally gruff and troublesome.

gainly looking craft.

Slocum knew the sea and boats as well as any man of his day but he was not the sort to bother ex plaining the seaworthiness of the Spray.He knew what was required for offshore sailing and heavy weather and he had made sure that the Spray had all the necessary fit tings and strengths.

After a trial run from Nantucket to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia to pur chase supplies he set sail from Bos ton on 24th April 1895.

"A thrilling pulse beat high in me," recorded Slocum as he setsail. "My step was light on deck in the crisp air."

The Spray made 1,200 miles in

"When I came to, as 1 thought from my swoon,1 realised that the sloop was plunging into a heavy sea, and looking out the companionway, to my amazement 1 saw a tall man at the helm. His rigid hand, grasping the spokes of the wheel, held them as in a vice. One may imagine my astonishment. His rig was that of a foreign sailor, and the large red cap he wore was cockbilled over his left ear, and all was set off with shaggy black whiskers. He would have been taken for a pirate in any part of the world... 'Senor,' said he, dogging his cap,'1 have come to do you no harm... 1 am one of Columbus' crew... 1 am the pilot of the Pinta

"If you want to get on well with a true Britisher," wrote Slocum, "you must first have a deuce of a row with him. 1 knew that well enough, and so 1 fired away, shot for shot, as best 1 could.'"

The remainder of the stay in Gi braltar tu med out to be most pleas ant.

One day a steam launch pulled alongside and the senior naval of ficer of Gibraltar, Admiral Bruce, invited Slocum to move the Spray from the Old Mole to a berth near the arsenal where she was dwarfed by the battleships Colliiigivood, Barfleur and Corrrioraiil.

Slocum became somewhat of a celebrity and was, in his words treated "most royally". Every morning the Admiral sent over

Joshua Slocum labove)and the Spray(left)

"A thrilling pulse beat high in me," recorded Slocum as he set sail."My step was

milk and fresh vegetables. Her Majesty's Navy even provided men and materials to make the Spray shipshape. Slocum com plained that he had little time for work himself and he fattened up as he happily accepted the many dinner invitations he received.

US Consul Horatio J. Sprague, Admiral Brace's wife, the Gover nor of Gibraltar Sir Francis Carrington,and other high officers and their wives boarded the Spray, signed the log book and invited Slocum to dinner or tea. One invi tation was to a picnic on a Moroc can beach with the Governor and several officers. Another was for lunch at Line Wall House where Slocum admired relics from the fourteen sieges.

"At each placd, and all about, 1 felt the friendly grasp of a manly hand,that lent me vital strength to pass the coming days atsea.I must confess at the perfect discipline, order and cheerfulness at Gibral tar."

Slocum also toured the Rock; "1 rambled much about the old city, and a gunner piloted me through the galleries as far as a stranger is permitted to go.

There is no excavation in the world,for military purposes, at all approaching these of Gibraltar in conception or execution."

Originally Slocum had planned to sail across the Mediterranean and through the Suez Canal but he was dissuaded by Gibraltarians who warned him of the danger of pirates. He decided to sail west and along the coast of Africa.

Still he did meet up with pirates off Morocco but had a lucky escape, A felucca gave chase and Slocum's life was at stake. The faster Arab craft was gaining on the Spray when it washit by a great wave and broached.

The Spray's boom was snapped by the same wave but the pirates were too busy trying to save their own boat to continue the chase.

Slocum experienced dozens more adventures in the remainder of his incredible voyage,a passage of 46,000 miles, which came to an end on 27th June 1898 when he sailed the little Spray into the har bour at Newport, Rhode Island. This historic achievement made him the patron saint of small-boat voyagers, navigators and adven turers all over the world. Ellen MacArthur is a shining example of the spirit that drove Slocum and those few others like him sail around the world — alone.

Joshua Slocum was lost at sea during a solo voyage to South America in 1909.

SLOCUM SOCIEH TO CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY

The Joshua Slocum Society will cel ebrate the 50th anniversary ofits found ing this summer, June 24th and 25th, at Newport. Rhode Island. The Societyis an internationalnon-profit corporation founded in 1955 by sailing enthusiast Richard Gordon McClosky.

The Society's purpose is to record, en courage,andsupportlong distance pas sages in small boats. In pursuit ofthese goals it has become an internationalas sociation of people ofsimilar interests:

• First, in reporting and recording the adventures ofsmall boat sailors;

•Second,in recognising significant voy ages and acts of heroism at sea;

•And third, in keeping sea history alive, especially the memory and legacy of Captain Joshua Slocum.

Members include: circumnavigators, deep water passage-makers, yachts men. boat builders, andsmall boatsail ors; and non-sailors: former sailors, "arm-chair sailors", historians, and di rect descendants of Joshua.

Members ofthe Society volunteerto act as"Port Captains"to greet travelling So ciety members in countries around the world. The activities ofthe membersand first-hand accounts of their adventures are shared in the annual journal, 'The Spray", and the periodic newsletter, "Spray, Ahoy!" Many members ex change information via the Internet. Plans are underway to keep the accom plishments ofCaptain Slocum before the public by offering sailboatrace trophies for young sailors and at radio control led model sailboat races for the disa bled.

The Society is governed by a board of directors and four officers. Membership is open to any interested party without prerequisite. The Joshua Slocum Soci ety extends to you this invitation to be come a member and to participate in our programme and plans.

The Joshua Slocum Society Interna tional. 15 Codfish Hill Road Extension, Bethel, CT06801, USA. Telephone 203 790-6616, FAX203 770-6617 oremail Ted@joshuaslocumsocietyintl.org to Ted Jones, Commodore. Dues

®iai\cag

A Decadent Combinatien

First of all, let me wish all our readers a Happy (if somewhat belated) New Year! How many of you have managed to stick to your New Year Resolutions? Do I hear an eerie silence? I hope so, because that means I'm not alone!

Actually the reason I've broken two of mine already(and this is my excuse and I'm sticking to it) is that I've had to do some research in or der to write this article. Let me ex plain. Since this is the February is sue, predictably 1 wanted to talk about wines for St Valentines Day. However (and less predictably) I decided I'd try and search outsome wine recommendations to go with the gift of choice on Valentines Day (next to roses and perfume, which 1 prefer-hint, hint!), chocolate. Now 1 don't know many people who would turn down some chocolate.

delights and soft centres (all in the line of duty you understand) and trying them with various wine styles to come up with some com binations that will hopefully bring something new and positive to both parties.

Chocolate is notoriously difficult to successfully pair with wine. In fact in most wine reference books it is relegated to the'tricky ingredi ents' section of the wine with food chapter.

The problem is that most choco lates(and dishes containing choco late) are extremely sweet with a

The problem is that most chocolates(and dishes containing chocolate) are extremely sweet with a taste-bud smothering texture especially fine hand-made chocs from Belgium or France, nor do 1 know many who would refuse a good glass of wine. But try and serve the two together and people often start to question your good in tentions. So, since the start of the New Year, I've been chomping mv way through vast quantities of dark

taste-bud smothering texture, mak ing most table wines(white or red) seem thin and unpleasantly bitter. Following the normal food and wine pairing rules,the accompany ing wine should be at least as sweet. That would normally lead you to a sweet white,such as Sautemes or a Banvuls from southern France, if

HI.],

you can get one(sorry, you haven't ahope in Gibraltar!). Muscat based wines are also a possibility. I have found two very different Muscat based wines that I think work equally well with a rich chocolate pudding.The first is Brown Broth ers Late Harvest Muscat 2004 (£5.13,Safeway's Tel:41114). From the Victoria region in Australia,this is gloriously grapey and rich with out being cloying.The second (also from Safeway's) is Capetta Moscato D'Asti,£2.59. Testing the 'matching by contrasting' rule,this ethereal fizz(think Asti Spumante, it's the same thing,just cheaper!)is again intensely grapey and smooth and the bubbles are refreshing and palate cleansing. This is perfect with a heavenly chocolate mousse!

Chocolate is one of those in stances where echoing the flavour in the wine does not necessarily al ways work. Most of the wines

chocolate enhancing the fruit in the wine.

Another red for chocolate is Barbera D'Asti (£4.63, Safeways, as before), again from Italy,in fact the same region as the sparkling Moscato. This wine is unoaked and so the typical Barbera flavours of ripe morello cherry(think Black Forest Gateaux-Yum!) are promi nent and a bitter almond edge gives it complexity. Lovely with chocolate fudge cake!

The last two reds are essentially 'dry' wines, and therefore I sup pose quite unusual choices. If you would prefer something sweeter but still red try Mavrodaphne of Patras(£3.74,Safeways again- well they do have the mostcomprehen sive selection in Gibraltar).Amaz ingly this sweet (it's slightly forti fied with spirit to retain the sug ars) red wine comes from Cyprus and used to be incredibly popular

Look for wines that have the minimum or no oak ageing

which have a chocolaty flavour are dry, full-bodied reds such as CabernetSauvignon, Nebbiolo(the grape that goes to make Barolos in Italy) and Shiraz, usually you find these have been oak aged which adds to their bitter tannic structure which,when combined with choco late,is a common form of wine sui cide.

However if you choose carefully, you may be pleasantly surprised. Look for wines that have the mini mum or no oak ageing and go for wines from regions that typically have lots of hot sun that will give the grapes higher natural sugar content. I've found Burra Brook Shiraz 2003(£3.75,Marks& Spen cers Tel: 75857), from South Aus tralia.

Which has a sweet ripe fruit fla vour combined with some peppery spice. This wine works best with dark plain chocolate, the spice ele ment really picking out the cocoa flavours, and the bitterness of the

years ago(I think all the troops sta tioned there used to drink it), Well, its still going strong and is a really luscious and comforting drink.

Lastly and probably the natural progression from the last wine, is in fact a port Churchill's 10 year old Tawny (£12.25, Anglo Hispano, Tel: 77210). In my opin ion port and dark chocolate can be a heavenly combination, but 1 don't like my ports too heavy, so this tawny port is ideal. Whereas a vin tage port is bottled after less than two years to develop in the bottle, a tawny port is left to mature for 10 (or20, 30 and 40) years in oak barrels. The resulting wine is lighter in colour(hence Tawny)and has more gentle rounded toffee like flavours. 1 think this is wonderful with chocolates containing hazel nuts or almonds.

That's all for this month's article, just like half a box of chocolatesit's short and sweet! Happy Valen tines!

Tel: 79791

Fax: 72250 Bar Restaurant

on 5 large overhead TVs

Traditional Homemade Pub Food including Fish & Chips, Steak & Ale Pie Quiches etc

FULLY AIR-CONDITIONED

FRIENDLY FAMILY ATMOSPHERE

Food Served from: 9.30am-10pm Mondays to Saturdays, 12am - 10pm Sundays

Marina Bay (next to Checkout)

rAll homemade • Delicious food from quiches and salads to fish and chips

Plus Rosemary's famous homemade desserts Eat in or Takeaway

Just Desserts expands % fa I

Valentine's recipes

"A jug of wine a loaf of bread and thou," may have been enough to warm the cockles of Edward FitzGerald's heart, but most couple's in love will want^something a little special to eat on Valentine's Day (February 14th).

Traditionally it's the date on which to show your beloved just how much you care,and what bet ter way than by preparing a very special meal(filled with aphrodisi acs to get them in the mood for a little romance, of course).

Just Desserts on thefirstfloor ofthe ICC is growing and grou'ing and growing. Now more than double its original size, this popular eaterie now has lots ofspacefor breakfast, lunches and coffees. The perfect place to linger over delicious home cooked meals.

Mr Meats on City Mill Lane

Aphrodite,the love goddesscon sidered sparrows sacred because of their "amorous nature" and they were included in various aphro disiac brews. Butlet's forget the tra ditional aphrodisiacs such as deer antlers, mandrake roots, rhinoc eros' horns, or raw sea eel and in stead try some of these tasty but simple recipes to tempt your lover, however unfamiliar you may be with the kitchen!

Lover's Salad

1 avocado

300 g shelled, boiled prawns, 2 celery hearts diced

4 walnuts,shelled & chopped mayonnaise/ketchup/cream

Halve the avocado, remove the stone and scoop the flesh into small bowl,keeping the skin intact. Chop the avocado flesh. Put the prawns, the celery and the walnuts into the bowl with the avocado and mix.

Mr Meats,formerly called the Sausage Factory has reopened under new management(pictured above, Ronnie and Inma). The shop is now offering a complete butchers sendee as well as thefamous sizzling sausages. Located right at the top ofCity Mill Lane.

The Reel liete

cream

Flesh of 1 ripe mango finely chopped

Pour 1 inch of water into a small saucepan, add a dash of olive oil and a pinch ofsalt.Bring to the boil and add the pasta squares,one at a time,for 3 minutes or until they're lender.

In another small saucepan melt butter over a medium heat,then stir in orange zest,juice and cream,stir ring until nice and thick and bub bly. Put to one side.

Fill the avocado skins with the misture and dress with a pmk sauce made by mixing 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise with one tablespoon of ketchup and one tablespoon of cream. Chill, then sprinkle with a little cayenne pepper just before serving.

Open Crab Ravioli

"Ravioli" means "pillows of pasta stuffed with a filling" but when a Ravioli is "open" you sim ply spoon the topping over a square of pasta, then drizzle with sauce and, in this case, sprinkle with sweet mango,

One sheet of fresh pasta, cut into four equal squares

For filling:

8 oz. fresh crab meat

Handmade in Cornwall

Baked on the Premises in Gibraltar

16 City Mill Lane Tel: 70737 Open:10am - late 6 days

Beers Wines Spirits Traditional Cornish Pasties

Beef& Stilton Pasty Cheese & Bacon Pasty Chicken Pasties

Vegetarian Pasties Sausage Rolls

Several small spring onions,finely chopped

Grated zest of one orange

For sauce:

2 tbs butter

Zest of one orange

2 tbs orange juice

Small carton of fresh thick double

Mix together the crab, spring onions and orange zest in a small saucepan; and pour in half of the sauce.

To serve, place two steamed pasta squares into the middle of a warmed plate or dish. Spoon half of the crab mixture into the centre, then drizzle the orange sauce over the top. Sprinkle with a little diced mango.

Basil is said to stimulate the sex drive and boost fertility. It is also said to produce a general sense of well being for body and mind so if you have a few fresh leaves,be sure to garnish the dish with them be fore serving.

It has to be Chocolate

Almond has been a symbol of fertilit)' throughout the ages and the aroma is thought to induce passion in a female. Try ser\ing Marzipan (almond paste)chocolates as an af ter-dinner treat. Or dip chilled strawberries into melted chocolate and refigerate before serving with cream if you feel more adventur ous. Chocolate contains chemicals thought to effect neurotransmitters in the brain and acts as an aphro disiac.

Market Tavet/j

ar^C^pe

E^i>1bv^r5l1 Arms

The lunchbox

restaurants

Biancas Restaurant

6/7 Admiral's Walk, Marina Bay. Tel: 73379 Fax:79061

Popular and pleasant restaurant on the Quayside at Ma rina Bay witli large quayside terrace. Try chicken tikka raita, avocado & smoked salmon or fresh carrot & ginger soup to start,followed by barbecued spare ribs,beef viagra,swordfish steak,Cajun Ceasar.salad,kuku nyama pizza,or chicken and smoked salmon tagliatelle to name but a few for the main course. Crepes, pies, ice cream sundaes etc for des sert. Children's menu, vegetarian dishes, daily specials. Great for all the family.

Open:7 days,9am - late.

Cafe Solo

Grand Casemates Square. Tel: 44449

Modem Italian eatery set in Casemates. Everything from cajun spiced langoustincs Caesar salad, or aromatic prawn salad on romaine leaves bound in wild mushroom & sherry mayonnaise, to pastas (eg: smoked haddock risotto with mascarpone and basil oil;open ravioli ofswiss chard,basil, garlic and potato with parmesan cream sauce) and pizzas (eg:QuattoStagioni topped with mozzarella, ham,chicken, pepperoni and mushroom).

Claus on the Rock

Queensway Quay. Tel/Faj; 48686

Intemational menu served on the quayside for lunch,after noon and dinner. Well worth a visit, especially if you ap preciate good wines and cigars.

Open: Lunch & Dinner. Closed Sundays.

Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant

11-13 Market Lane. Tel: 77313

Good no fuss Chinese Restaurant off Main St near Post Of fice serving all the traditional favourites including Spring Rolls, Chicken Satay, Buddha Duck in Black Bean Sauce, Pork Sweet and Sour, King Prawns with Spring Onion Gin ger Sauce, Shredded Crispy Beef, Special Noodles and Chicken in Black Bean Sauce on a Sizzling Plate.

Open:12- 3,6.30 - midnight every day.

Da Paolo Marina Bay. Tel: 76799

Da Paolo serves a high standard of attractively presented intemational cuisine right on the waterfront at Marina Bay.

Try baked leek & wild mushroom tartlet or lobster bisque to start, or for main course, crepe of fish & prawns glazed with hollandaisc sauce; baked aubergines filled with ratatouille gratinated with mozzarella; or perhaps the loin of pork baked in cider with cinnamon. Continental/Eng lish breakfast, lunch,inc. light meals & baguettes, and full a la carte dinner served. Quayside terrace.

Open:from 9.3()am. Closed on Sundays.

The Rib Room Restaurant, Rock Hotel. Tel: 73000 www.rockhotelgibraltar.com

With stunning views of the bay, the Rib Room is acclaimed for its high standard of service and cuisine. Ultimate venue for intimate dinners, or larger gatherings, the Rock Hotel rises to the occasion with style and sophistication. Glass of fino and appetiser welcome diners. Summer a la carte and daily house menu from 01.95 p/p specially prepared by the Executive Chef with classical cuisine and a modern in terpretation. Comprehensive wine list.Sunday lunch £14.95 for a welcome Mar\zanilla,4-courses always includes roast sirloin and some of best Yorkshire puds in town. Sunday newspapers- Relax afterwards to the resident pianist/gui

7^ sKm

Ofcfe

John Mackintosh Sq Tel; 71804

Traditional pub in the middle oftown

tarist. Air-conditioning, parking, kid's menu/high chair. Open:7pm-10pm daily. Credit cards: AE, D, E, M, V

Simon's Restaurant

44 Cornwall's Lane. Tel: 47515

Excellent food in a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere. Hosts Suzanne and Simon ensure everyone receives per sonal attention. Start with Simon's own p3t6 with red on ion jam and hot toast, or king prawns thermidor with tar ragon mustard, white wine and cheese cream sauce or per haps baked New Zealand mussels with garlic butter and melted camembert. Main courses include kebab of swordfish and king prawns with creamy dill sauce, breast of chicken with mushroom, bacon, rosemary stuffing and masala sauce,and roast tenderloin of pork wrapped in ba con with apple, sage and Calvados sauce. Ch try the roast rack of lamb with mint, redcurrant and red wine sauce or the grilled fillet of mero with avocado and prawns. There is something to delight every palate. Fully air-conditioned. Open:evenings(bookings recommended)

Sunset Grill-House

17b Queensway Quay Tel:43345

Newly opened steakhouse with a selection of original meat and fish dishes, plus a vegetarian menu. Try the whole lobster (grilled in garlic butter or thermidor),fresh salmon steak with white wine and caper sauce, Angus, T-bone, prime rib,rump sirloin entrecote or fine fillet steaks(choose your sauce from a selection including pepper, brandy,blue cheese,chasseur, mustard or burgundy).Duck breast glazed with honey and mandarin sauce, mixed veg stroganoff to name but a few dishes!

Open: 12-3, 7-11. Colsed Mondays.

Thyme Restaurant

5 ComwalTs Lane. Tel: 49199

Modem intemational restaurant serving-dishes with a fu sion of British, Mediterranean and Eastern flavours. Try the Seafood Slammers, orange and Lime Caramelised Chicken or Thai Fishcakes. Main menu changed season ally and specials run daily. Everything made on the premises using only the best, fresh ingredients.

Open:Mon - Fri 12.30-3pm, Mon-Sat 7,3()pm • 12am.

Award winning breakfastsfrom 7.30am

Great meals & snacks all day

Evening Steak House menu

Med Golf Clubhouse

Leeds United Gibraltar HQ

Parliament Lane Tel: 75924

• Warm friendly bar, lots of military history

• Hosts Eaion, Mollie & Justine

• Air-conditioned

• Various top beers

• Outside seating to watch the world go by

• Homemade specials every day

•Open 7 days a week

informal

A1 Andalus Bar Restaurant

3 College Lane. Tel: 49184

Small eatery in the centre of town serving lots of tasty food from sandwiches and baguettes to barbecues(lamb chops, fillet steak, mixed grill etc) and tajines. Try the cous-cous (beef, veggie, chicken or lamb)or the tapas - £1(eg:Span ish omoletterboiled crab legs,garlicchicken,cuttlefish stew).

Open:Sam -late evening.Now serving breakfastfrom Sam.

Barbary Ape

0pp. Queen's Hotel. Tel:44380

Homemade food, breakfast, lunch and dinner, including English breakfast, toasties, club sandwiches, salads, burg ers and fish & chips. Kid's menu. Enclosed terrace, park ing, near cable car.

Open:from 10am Monday - Saturday. Qosed Sundays.

Buddies Pasta Casa

15 Cannon Lane. Tel:40627

Tasty Italian specials in pleasant ambience. Large selec tion ofstarters from garlic bread to calamari. Main courses include fettuccine de formaggio, spaghetti alia carbonara, fusilli al salmone, and entrecote al whisky to name a few. Tasty desserts and variety of wines.

Open: Monday - Wednesday 10am - 5pm, Thursday, Fri day and Saturday 10am - 4pm and 7pm • midnight.

Charlie's Steak House Grill

Marina Bay. Tel/Fax: 79993

George and Paula are your hosts at Charlie's where you will find a wide selection of intemational food including sizzling steaks,tandooris and seafood dishes plus daily spe cials. Try the special sizzling mixed grill which includes tandoori and garlic chicken breasts, slices of prime fillet, king prawns,sausages, bacon,tomato and peppers. Regu lar theme nights. Quayside terrace.

Open:9am - late every day.

Le Coq D'Or

Unit 9-10 Watergardens. Tel: 43601

Eat-in or take-away al this busy eatery for all the favourites such as fish and chips,pie and chips,sausages,dormer and chicken kebabs, roast chicken, curries, pinchitos, pakoras, salads and Moroccan cakes.

Open:10am - late 7days a week.

Fancy That Sandwich Bar

Ground Floor,ICC. Tel: 47262

Great place for hot and cold rolls, sandwiches(wide selec tion of fillings), toasties, hot pies, and salad pots. Plus tea, coffee,soft drinks, doughnuts, muffins and biscuits.

Open: Mon - Fri 8.30 -6pm,Sat 10 - 2pm.

Just A Nibble 1st Fir Intemational Commercial Ctr. Tel:78052

Full blown licensed cafeteria serving English breakfast, vast range of toasties, rolls, and other snacks. Meals include steak and kidney pie,Bob's famous chicken curry/chilli con carne, &:now Kentucky-style fried chicken,plus all the old favourites - jacket spuds, burgers, hot dogs, fish and chips, and daily specials. Ideal meeting placeOpen; Monday - Saturday from 9am.

Just Desserts 1st Floor ICC Tel: 48014

Comfortable bright and airy cafe serving vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine from breakfast and lunch to after-

^Uar//e

Steak House

GrlU & TauCTU

Where people meet to eat a fine and varied lunch menu and a comprehensive a la carte menu that compliments both our kitchen and our customers.Everything from toasties to tagbatelie and from full English breakfast to Jamaican Pepper Pot.

Charlies Sizzling Specials with .steaks or mixed grills.

We also carry a good selection of wine, spirits and beers.

We're on the harbour wall at the beautiful Marina Bay so book a pleasant table for two or just sit watching the world go by while sipping an ice cold beer.

Reserve on Tel/Fax: 79993

No. 2 Admiral's Walk, Marina Bay, Gibraltar

E-mail: george@gibnei.gi

We fove to cater for groups and parties so why not spend that next special occasion at Charbes?

noon tea. Homemade desserts a speciality. Eat-in or takea way at sensible prices. Outside catering service.

Open:Sam - 4-30pm Monday to Friday.

The Lunchbox

301 Eurotowers. Tel: 49310 with orders

Fresh filled baguettes and Vienna/wholemeal rolls, paninis

Serranito st)'lc(roast pork, green peppers and sauce), brie, ham & tomato or mushroom,or tuna mayo and sweetcom, Calentita, salads, baked poatoes, chilli beef with cheese nachos. Relax with the Chronicle in the coffee and TV lounge. Range of local dishes, homemade cakes and desserts.

Open: Monday - friday 7am - 6pm-

Munchies Cafe

24 Main Street. Tel: 43840 Fax;42390

A great sandwich bar/cafe offering an unusual range of sandwiches on white or granary bread, plus salads, ba guettes,soups,desserts,homemade ice-cream and hot/cold drinks. Business lunches, parties and kids parties also ca tered for (for party and office platters phone or fax order by 5.30pm day before - minium orders for delivery £12).

Open; Mon - Fri 8.30-7, Sat 9-4,Closed Sun-

Piccadilly Garden Bar/Restaurant

3 Rosia Road. Tel: 75758

Pleasantbar near cable car/Queen's Hotel with lovely ter race for drinks/meals. Tasty Spanish/English cuisine in cluding fresh seafood,jDreakfast, churros and hamburgers.

Open: from breakfast to late.

The Pie Machine

83 Govemor's Street. Tel: 49314

Delicious pies homemade on the premises including chicken & mushroom, pure chicken,steak & kidney, minced beef& onion and lots more. Also sausage rolls, filled rolls, soft drinks, tea and coffee. Eat-in or take-away.

Open; Mon - Fri 7am - 6pm,Sat/Sun Sam - 2pm.

The Real Taste of Cornwall

16 City Mill Lane. Tel: 70737

Real pasties, handmade in Cornwall and baked in Gibral tar, are available from this Pasty Bar and Takeaway located just off Main Street near Mothorcare. Go along for a quiet pint or take a pasty home for tea, many flavours available from beef&Stilton to Cheese & Bacon,Steak &Ale to Broc coli, Cheese & Sweetcorn.

Open:10am - late Monday to Saturday.

The Rock Cafe

2nd floor ICC(next to Health Centre). Tel:630683201

Eat in (or take-away), while you wait for your number to come up on the Doctor's Digital Appointment Screen on thecafewalKbutyou don't have to visit the doctor to enjoy asnack,or a coffee!). All day breakfast, toasties,sandwiches, baguettes, jacket potatoes, scampi & chips, cod & chips, steak&kidney pie, burgers, kiddies menu,apple pie,cakes and pastries — beer, wines, spirits, tea, coffee and soft drinks. Ideal meeting place, relaxing music. Private par ties catered for (seats 60).

Open:from Sam, Monday to Saturday.

Roy's II Fish and Chips Cafeteria

Opposite the Convent, Main Street. This fish and chip cafeteria and take-away is located di rectly opposite the Govemor's residence on Main Street. Traditional fish and chips, burgers,salads and much more. Open; lOam-lOpm.

Sacarello Coffee Co.

57 Irish Town. Tel: 70625

Converted coffee warehouse, ideal for coffee, homemade cakes with afternoon tea, plus full menu including excel lent salad bar, specials of the day and dishes such as lasa gne,steak and mushroom Guinness pie, hot chicken salad, toasties,club sandwich and baked potatoes. Art exhibitions.

Open:9am - 7.30pm. Closed Sundays.

Smith's Fish & Chips

295 Main Street. Tel: 74254

A 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 and burgers. Break fasts from Sam.

Open:Sam -6pm Monday - Friday

Located: Main Street opposite the Convent.

Solly's Salt Beef Parlour & Delicatessen

8 Canon Lane. Tel: 78511

Newly opened on Cannon Lane this carvery, charcuterie and deli offers delicious food to take away eat in or for delivery- Try the carvery(from 11am),hot or cold baguettes with fillings such as curried chicken breast, Meiguez sau sages,schnitzel, pastrami,smoked turkey and pressed beef. There are also salads and platters including bangers & mash, lamb chops, beef burgers and hot dogs. (Glatt Kosher)

Open:12pm - late, Closed Saturdays,Sunday 6pm - late.

The Tasty Bite

59a Irish Town. Tel: 78220 Fax: 74321

Tasty Bite has one of the biggest take-away menus around with home cooked meats,filled baguettes,butgers,chicken, kebabs and everything else you can think of!

Open; Monday - Saturday.

The Wheelhouse Marina Bay (next to Checkout)Tel: 77845

Lots of good homemade food to eat in or take away from

Bars / Restaurants marked have their full menus online at www.TheCibrditdrMagazlne.com

breakfasts, sandwiches and salads to casserole, pies and quiches. Try the delicious vegetable tikka massala and rice, or the steak pie with onions in a red wine sauce or perhaps the chicken supreme in a wine and mushroom sauce. Hot rolls, club sandwiches, omelettes, jacket potatoes and, of course, Rosemary's famous desserts. Daily specials, and Saturday special full roast plus dessert plus wine for £5.95.

Open:8am-5pm Monday - Saturday

bars&ruiDs

All's Well Grand Casemates Square. Tel: 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 hand ing 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, sau sage & mash, cod and chips and steak & ale pie are complimented by a range of salads and filled jacket pota toes. Large terrace.

The Angry Friar

278 Main Street. Tel: 71570

The Angry Friar is everything you'd expect from a British pub, but with a large terrace. Food 9.30 - 4, 6 - 9,15 inc. breakfasts. (Sunday roasts 11 - 4,6 - 9.15pm).

Open:9.30am-midnjght(Sun.from Ham)

Located: Opposite The Convent.

Aragon Bar

15 Bell Lane. Tel: 78855

A friendly traditional bar serving good homemade food.

Outside tables available.

Open:7 days, 10-late,food 10 -10.

The Cannon Bar

27 Cannon Lane. Tel: 77288

E-mail: janegib@gibnynex.gi

Still owned by Jane after 16 memorable years! Good food all day. Amin makes cous cous or tajine to order.

Located: off Main St at Marks & Spencer.

The Clipper

Irish Town. Tel: 79791

Large popular bar serving good homemade food from breakfasttodinner. Large varied menu. Top sporting events covered on overhead TVs. Private functions catered for. Open:9,30am to midnight(Fri and Sat to lam). Food served 9.30am to 10pm).

Corks Wine Bar

Irish Town. Tel: 75566

Under the new management of Neil and Gino, Corks is a popular and pleasant wine bar serving an excellent range of hot and cold dishes at lunchtime (12-3pm) with daily specials. Toast, coffee and scones served 9.30-11.30am, af ternoon toasties. English breakfast. Tuesday evening is Curry Night, Thursday evening is Steak night

Open:9:00am - late. (Zlosed Sundays

Duck & Firkin

Building 6,Europort. Tel: 72745

Live football on a giant TV showing all premier league ac tion from Sky Sports plus more. (Juiz machines,2 poker machines,2 pool tables. Karaoke on 2nd Saturday in month. Food served 10am - 3pm Mon-Sat.

Open:from 10am -midnight(Friday-Sat urdayllam-lam)

The Edinburgh Arms

Naval Hospital Road. Tel: 78961

When it's hot outside be cool inside! Excellent homemade food from 10am weekdays, midday weekends. Snacks/, tapas available all day. T^e aways available. Sundays re-' lax with the Sunday papers and special brunch, Sunday roasts from October onwards. Dartboard and children's activities. Monday is prize quiz night.

Open:Mon-Thurs llam-midnight,Friday &Saturday midday-lam,Sunday midday-6pm.

The Horseshoe

193 Main Street. Tel: 77444

Rightin the centre of town,the Horseshoe is a popular,busy bar. Good menu from full English breakfast, to burgers and mixed grills. Curry and chilli specials on Sunday.

Open:9am to late, Sunday lOam - late.

Facilities: Main Street terrace.

The Market Tavern

Waterport/Casemates Gates. Tel:50800

Serving good food from salads, snacks and full English breakfast(until 3pm)to burgers, toasties, curries, fish and chips, and pie, chips and gravy. Pool table upstairs. Live music Friday 9pm -late, Karaoke Wed and Sat 9pm- late.

Open:Sam - late Mon - Sat, Sun lOam-late.

Lord Nelson Bar Brasserie

10 Casemates Sq. Tel: 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:Lunch:try the specialitymusselsin white wine,gar lic and cream, or the famous fish and chips served with homemade tartar sauce. Daily specials and snacks avail able. Evening;full a la carte including special dishes cooked at your table. Steak Diane,king prawns a la romana,crepes suzette and many more. Sunday lunch from £6.95. Credit cards accepted. Live music every weekend.

Open:from 10am till very late.

Pickwicks

Governor's Parade. Tel: 76488

Newly refurbished and run by well-known friendly face, Mandy,this small pub with a large terrace is situated in the new TTieatre square away from the traffic and safe for all the family. Sometimes there's live music in the summer months. Good food available. Private parties catered for.

Open: weekdays from 9.30am - midnight(-lam Fridays)

Location: turn off Main St at Marks & Spencer.

The Pig and Whistle Unit 18, Watergardens. Tel: 76167

A comfortable pleasant pub with pool table and terrace on the quayside. Big screen television for sporting events.

Open: 10-midnight (Fri-Sat 11-lam)

The Royal Caipe

176 Main Street. Tel: 75890

Comfortable traditional bar close to the Cathedral on Main Street. Beer garden at the rear. Serving good pub food all day including breakfast, omelettes,salads,jackets, toasties and main courses such as curry,chilli,lasagne,scampi,burg ers and fish and chips. Kiddies menu available.

Open:9pm-12 Mon - Sat,Sun llam-5pm.

Royal Oak Bar

59c Irish Town. Tel: 71708

Informal pub, popular for its pool table and sports talk. Outdoor seating.

Located;Irish Town, parallel to Main St.

The Ship Marina Bay. Tel: 72332

Traditional style pub on the marina side overlooking the yachts. Lots of terrace seating and traditional pub food. Ever)'thing from buffalo wings with dips to filled jacket po tatoes, salads, burgers, fajitas, bangers and mash, curries, quiche and pasta. Something for everyone and reasonably priced. Large screen TV for sporting events.

Open: Midday - late(food served). Closed Mondays.

Located: Right on the quayside at Marina Bay

The Star Bar Parliament Lane. Tel: 75924

Reputedly the oldest bar in Gib, this bar opens early for breakfa.st(English or toast& cereal). Lunch /evening menu includes fillet steak, fish and chips and salads. Kids menu 99p. Home of Med Golf (lO'/i discount on food for Med Members). Home of Leeds United FC supporters club.

Facilities: Outside seating.

Open:from 7am every day.

Located:first right off Main Street(walking from N to S).

The Theatre Inn

Governor's Street Tel: 77172

A comfortable bar located close to the Eliott Hotel and serv ing a variety of hot and cold tapas, plus bar snacks from 10am • 3pm. Live entertainment every other Saturday, karaoke every Friday. Terrace seating. Air conditioning.

Open: 10am - midnight Mon - Sat.

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 ta bles, 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.

Bars/ Restaurants marked have their full menus online at vwvw.TheCibraltarMagazine.com

Goot> VaImc

The Three Roses Governor's Street Tel: 51614

Dermot and Val from Scotland run this bar, known as The Scottish Embassy, serving homemade food (until 6pm). Dartboard and pool table.

Open:all day,every day.

Toon on the Rock Cornwall's Parade. Tel: 59997

Comfortable bar,and the official home of Newcastle United supporters on the Rock. Three big screen TVs,outside ter race and bar snacks served all the time. Good bar food such as pies with peas, pasties, toasties and burgers, plus the occasional barbecue on the terrace.

Open: 10- late 7 days a week.

The Tunnel

8 Casemates Square. Tel: 74946 Tel/Fax: 44878

Large bar located in the historic Casemates Square.

Menu: Wide variety of affordable food including Sizzling specials from 7pm. Selection of international meals,Indian specialities, vegetarian selections, homemade ice-cream. Sunday carvery served lpm-9pm (hot & cold).

Facilities: Large terrace, big screen TVs, regular live music.

Open;7 days a week 9am - very late.

The Venture Inn

Lynch's Lane. Tel: 75776

A good central meeting place,this bar serves home-cooked food all day. Terrace seating off Main Street.

Open:from 10am

Located: Main Street near Casemates, opposite the ICC.

Wembley Bar

10 South Barrack Ramp. Tel: 78004

Popular bar for hot and cold bar snacks, function room,in south district. Fridays lUam for breakfast. Air conditioned.

Open: Ham - midnight Sunday - Thursday, 10am - lam Friday, 11am - lam Saturdays.

Ye Olde Rock

John Mackintosh Square. Tel: 71804

Warm friendly pub with lots of military history in the mid dle of town. Homemade food including specials served by hosts Eaion, and Mollie. Air conditioned, terrace.

Open:from 10am 7days a week.

acrosstheborder

La Diva

142 Av de Espana, La Linea

Little bar witliin short hop of the frontier. Ideal stop off for Spanish and English food, tapas and Sunday roasts. Great place to meet up and easy to find (on roundabout before Rocamar building). Food 12noon - lOpm.

Maharaja Restaurant & Take-away

Upper Level,Estepona Port, Spain

Good value authentic Indian food in a pleasant marina side location-

Open:7pm - midnight every day.

La Verandah Tel:(956)615998

km 135,Playa Guadiaro,Torreguadiaro,Spain.

Quality international food served in a friendly informal atmosphere. Excellent value. Log fire in winter.

Open: Lunches:Saturday and Sunday only. Dinners: every day except Tuesday. Closed Tuesdays.

Autlioitlc ImMam Cwisinc

MaJwaia

rcstAMTAMt fr tAkc-AWAVf scrvlcc

Upper Level, Estepona Port 7pm until midnight every day Tel: 952 801 452

Keep

English Fi including & Sunday Roast Meeting Place, Ample Patking

142 Avde Espana,La Linea (turn leftaibo'dw.on roundabout befbre Rocam.ui

Simply Delightful Delightjvlly Simple open lunch & dinner,closed Tuesdays km 135, Playa Guadiaro, Torreguadiaro, Spain. Tel:(956)615998

WILD FLOWERS OF GIBRALTAR

Pteridophyta: Clubmosses Ef Ferns

A total of 9 species of wild ferns and 1 species of clubmoss can be found growing wild on the Rock. This group of plants do not produce flowers and fruits as the higher plants do in order to reproduce; rather they produce spores, which are formed in small chambers called sporangia situated on the underside of the leaves.

Generally these types of plants require damp, shady conditions in which to grow and reproduce. On the Rock,these conditions are met wherever there are shaded rocky outcrops, crevices in the limestone,on old stone walls,etc. Conditions are particularly suit able on north facing surfaces which receive less sunlight.

The rarest of our species is the clubmoss(Selaginella denticulaia). This is known from only two

only found along Mediterranean Steps.

The very common rusty-back fern {Asplenium ceterach) can be found all over the Rock, even along roadsides. It has long been known for its medicinal proper ties, in the treatment of kidney stones. In Spain it is known as doradilla. Other very common ferns are the maidenhair spleenwort {Asplenium trichomanes var. quadrivalens),and

small sites in Gibraltar, both on the lower slopes of the Upper Rock. The plants grow on the north facing side oftwo deep gul lies, where they receive very lit tle sunlight, and the ground on which they grow is very damp for most of the year.

Another rare fern is the lanceo late spleenwort {Asplenium billotii). This is only found along the upper ridge of the Rock, and is always seen growing around and among the exposed root sys tems of the dwarf fan palm. Pre sumably the soil here retains its dampness for longer, presenting the plant with ideal conditions. Exactly the same situation exists for the western black spleenworl {Asplenium onopteris) which is

the southern polypody {Polypodium cambricum). These can be found growing from walls and limestone crevices all along the roadsides of the Upper Rock.

Of the remaining species, the maidenhairfern {Adiantum capillus-veneris) is only found around the entrances of caves and tun nels;the Jersey fern{Anogramma leptophylla) grows all around Gi braltar, even in town, on old walls and steps; the scaly cheilanthes {Cheilanthes vellea) is very rare is only found in the Devil's Gap area; the fragrant cheilanthes {Cheilanthes acrosticha) is fairly common growing along the roadsides and footpaths of the southern parts of the Upper Rock.

Generally these types of plants require damp, shady conditions in which to grow and reproduce

Clubmoss

Fragrant cheilanthes

Southern polypody

Rusty-back fern

Maidenhair spleenwort

about Gibraltar that I like espe cially, and that's the fact that there's always something to celebrate and when it comes to celebrating no body does it better than the people of Gibraltar.

Last year it wasthe tercentenary and now in the year 2005 it's the 200th an niversary of Nelson's victory at the battle of Trafalgar. I can't think of any thing in particular about next year but I'm sure we will come up wi^ some thing or other without too many prob lems.

Celebration Time

Like many others I welcomed in the New Year in Casemates Square and what a great way to start 2005 it was.

Phil Valverde and his band got every body bopping about and singing. I even spotted heavy metal rocker Chris Read singing along to Abba songs and in the distance I also spotted David and Janet Grant ofImage Graphics kicking up their heels in a very exotic looking dance. 1 only hope they didn't all suf fer too much with hangovers the next day.

Along with all the celebrating New

Year's Eve is the time when many of us make "New Year's Resolutions" usually with all the best of intentions. So if you were one of the many who promised to pack up smoking or lose a few pounds and get a bit fitter don't give up too quickly, just think about how much you could show off when you can claim success.

One young fellow who certainly won't forget New Year's Eve in a hurry is Mr. Shift-It's right-hand man Jason who as a special New Year's Eve present received a pair of roller blades. Now if 1 tell you that Mr.Shift-It Andy, got a new camcorder as a Christmas gift you don't have to have much imagina tion to work out what happened next.

Picture the scene, there's Andy di recting and filming while young Jason is attempting to master the art of roller blading. Needless to say Jason ended up on his backside nursing an injured hand.But Andy had pressed the wrong button on the camcorder and hadn't managed to film any of the proceed ings so,as if poor old Jason hadn't suf fered enough,he was persuaded to try again justso Andy could film it all. And like a true hero Jason fool-hardily agreed and flew off at break neck speed

once more on the roller-blades and once again he ended up in a big heap on the floor only this time his hand was okay but he took a lump out of his leg.

So for injuries received whilst enter taining the masses on roller-blades Jason becomes the first new member of the "Bad Leg Club" for 2005. There is an other new member this month too, none other than "Sheeny"who's bad leg has flared up again due to cider abuse ac cording to his mates.

Yet another fellow in the wars over the holiday was Brian the window cleaner who came off his pushbike and ended up looking like he'd done ten rounds with Mike Tyson.

But just about the unluckiest person over the holiday time has to be none other than Alan "Sparky"Sparks who was out enjoying the Three Kings Cav alcade scrambling about pinching all the sweets meant for the kids when he got smacked in the eye by a sweet thrown into the crowds by one ofthe Kings. For tunately "Sparky" wears glasses and the sweet actually broke one of his lense. No damage was done to his eye but he did have to buy a new lens and that almost broke his heart, which should teach him a lesson for pinching the kids' sweets.

UtUe darlings at the Three Kings Cavahade

Here to help — Sylvia

There's one thing in particular

look at Gibraltar society with "H"

Joe and Paeo The lads

Young boys grow into young men so quickly these days,just why they are in such a hurry to get old I can't imagine but such is life. One such lad who can't wait to get older is Dave and Linda's son Ben who decided it was time to start shaving so his Mum and Dad bought him an electric razor. Now shaving can be a difficult art to master as Ben soon found out when he was having a trial run with the razor, young Ben had hardly made a start when the razor ran ariiok and before he got it under con trol again he'd lost half his eyebrow. Lucky it wasn't a cut-throat or he'd have cut his nose off.

Sports Report

This month's sports report has to start with news of the "Pride of The East End" the mighty Orient who I'm sorry to say failed to win a match during De cember. I can only assume that they wanted to give the other teams a chance to catch up. However the O's are still at the top end of Division 2 and promo tion is still a possibility — we can only hope they haven't blown it.

The "Pink Fluffy Things" quiz team

have won yet again, this time without Mandy so will her place in the team be under threat? Up at the 3Roses Dermot is already convinced that Celtic will be celebrating yet another cup and league double. In die English Premier League Chelsea fans are dreaming about win ning 4 trophies but I wouldn't rule out Man Utd or Arsenal just yet.

Congratulations to one of Gib's young golfing stars Paul Edinburgh who passed his driving test in early January.

Many Happies

Birthday boys and girls this month include Gavin Sharrock well over 21, Dave, Christopher, Noonie, Veronica, Pepe Fabre, Ted Wheatcroft and last but not least Reg Reynolds. Happy birthday to you all. Congratulations also to Kim and Alan Gravett on the birth of a son to be named Sascha Harry David who weighed in at 71b 2oz at 2.03am on 16th December 2004.

A Shaggy Dog Tale

Mandy of Pickwicks has a lovely lit tle pet dog called "Shaggy" and a very smart looking fellow he is as well. In

Laura looking smug fact his coat looked especially shiny in December when it was discovered that "Shaggy" had been having his coat washed with shampoo meantfor peo ple and Ben, Mandy's son, had been washing his hair with Shaggy's sham poo. I'm told that Ben hasn't started barking and his Mum tells me that he's always had a very waggly tail.

Bathroom Babe

Finally young Laura Mort had quite an exciting Boxing Day morning when she somehow or other managed to get herself locked in the bathroom. The door was pushed and pulled but would not budge so the only way to get the poor girl out was to call the Fire Brigade who duly arrived with sirens sounding and lights flashing and af ter a bit of head scratching and discus sion they could only come up with one solution so they kicked the door in. There was young Laura sitting there as cool as a cucumber and she just strolled out without a care in the world leaving three burly fireman at a loss for words.

And that as they say is that for this month see you on Main Street.

The Thyme team

A Close Shave

Mr Heritage k smiling duo Francis relaxes

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Natural History £t Heritage Park

dmission lo the Natural History and Heritage Park

IS between g.SOam and 7pm by tickets(includes entrance fo sues within the Park including St. Michael's Cave, Monkey's Den.Great Siege Tunnels, Military Heritage Centre. 'A City Under Siege' Exhibition and the Moorish Castle),(Facilities closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.) Adults £7.00 / Chil dren age 5-12 years: £4.00, Children age 4 years and under: free. Vehicles: £1.50, Pri vate vehicles may be restricted at certain times and it is advisable to take a Rock Tour by taxi/minibus. The Natural History6 Her itage Park can also be reached by Cable Car (leaves from Grand Parade 9.30am-6pm Monday to Sunday. Ijst cable up: 5.15pm. down: 5.45pm).

Theflora and fauna on the

Upper Rock are considered to be of great consen/ational value. It's a perfect place for lers. as migratory species use Gi braltar as the shortest crossing between Eu rope and Africa, but botanists will also be interested to see over 600 species of flow ering plants, including some unique to Gi braltar. Watch out for colourful lizards, the non-venemous Horseshoe Whipsnake, but terflies and pipisirelle bats. Info on the Rock's flora and fauna is found at the Gi braltar Ornithological and Natural History Society's Information Centre at Jews Gate.

St. Michael's Cave: The cave consists of 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 audito rium for concerts and theatre. The cave was prepared as a hospital in WWII, but was never used. While blasting an alterna tive entrance a further series of chambers were discovered ending in a mini lake. These are called Lower St. Michael's Cave and can be visited with a qualified guide.

The Monkeys' Den; There are around 160 monkeys living in the Park and around 30 of these can be seen at the Monkey's Den. Often called apes,they are tail-less Barbary Macaques and the only free living monkeys in Europe. Feeding the monkeys is illegal and carries a fine of £500.

The GreatSiege Tunnels: Tunnelling in the Rock began during the Great Siege(17791783} when France and Spain made an all out attempt to recapture the Rock while Britain was busy with the American War of Independence. Governor General Elliot of fered 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. Various exhibitions inside the tunnels bring pegawitfy wwfSaturday mtKning when the Rock's past'is brought alive by atroop of soldiers in 1Sth 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" rouline and then march back up Mam Street to the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned.

their history to life.

The Military Heritage Centre; Housed in one of the Rock's many historic batteries, the Military Heritage Centre displays infor mation 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 of the earliest British building on the Rock. Original graffiti, drawn by duty soldiers to stop themselves falling asleep, is still vis ible. the earliest dating back to 1726.

The Moorish Castle: The Moorish Castle is actually just part of a Moorish town and castle which was built up during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian ^ninsula. 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 the Spanish. The tower provides an excellent view point as it did for its Moorish builders centuries ago.

Natural History 6 Heritage Park Walks:

The recommended walk is St Michael's Cave through to Charles V Wall but walk ers should be relatively fit. It is also pleas ant walking along the upper rock roads. Fact Files and brochures are available free from all Tourist Board offices.

Botanical Gardens: Opened in 1816, the Alameda Botanical Gardens fell into disre pair but are currently being restored to their former glory. Visitors can enjoy a stroll be neath pines, dragon trees and palms, and see many of Gibraltar's native plants as well as exotic species. The shop sells environ mentally friendly gifts, plants and seeds. Tel: 72639/74022. Large car park available.

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 un derground tunnels surmounted by an im pressive 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'. Open 10am to 6pm every day except Mondays. Adults £1/ Children & OAPs 50p. Cafeteria on site.

Flat Bastion Magazine Flat Bastion Road, Geological Research Station and LIthology of Gibraltar. To visit please contact: F. Gomez Tel 44460,P HodklnsonTel.43910.

Emergency Services

Emergency calls only:

Fire/Ambulance Tel: 190'':

Police Tel: 199/112

Emergency Number Tel: 1l2,

Non-urgent calls:

Ambulance Station Tel: 75728

Police Tel: 7250D

Gibraltar Services Police: I Emergency N^r ..Tel. 15)5026/(513598

Telephone Services

Shrine of Our Lady of Europe (Museum

Within premises) Europa Road. 10am-7pm Monday to Friday. 11 am-7pm Saturday,Sun day and Public Holidays. Closed 1pm-2pm. Admission free.

Trafalgar Cemetery; Trafalgar Road, open 9am - 7pm daily(admission free).

Visitor Information

Gibraltar Museum

Tei: 74289

18/20 Bomb House Lane Open 10am -6pm (Sat. 10am - 2pm) Closed on Sunday. Ad mission Adults E2.00/Children under 12 years £1.00. Special exhibitions also held at museum premises in Casemates gallery.

Tel: 72289

Registry Office

It IS possible to get married on the Rock within 48 hours of arrival. A fact taken ad vantage of by stars such as Sean Connery and John Lennon.

Rock Tours by Taxi Tel: 70052

As well as offering normal fares, Gibraltar taxis provide a complete Rock Tour 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: 74950 Gibraltar National Tourist Board. Arundel Court, 179 Strand. London Tel: 0207 836 0777 Fax: 0207 240 6612 E-mail: giblondon@aol.com

John Mackintosh Hail Tel: 7S669 Centre of Gib's cultural life, includes a caf eteria. theatre, exhibition rooms and library. 308 Main Street 9.30am • 11 pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends.

Cruise Ship Schedule

December 2004

Thu02Dec04BlackPnnceZTA0800: ETD

1300; Operator Fred Olsen; Capacity 450: From Syracuse to Lisbon. Wed08Dec04

Delphin Renaissance ETA 1400: ETD 1900: Operator Delphin Cruises: Capacity 700; From Lisbon to Casablanca. Thu09Dec04

Costa Mediterranea ETA 1200 ETD 1800: Operator Costa: Capacity 2100: From Savona to Tenerife.

Public Holidays 2005

L

Operator Tel: 100

International operator Tel: 100

Directory Enquiries: Local Tei:

Internatiortai

FBus Routes

te 2: Starts at Both Worlds on the hour, Caleta Hotel. Devil's Tower Rd, Winston Churchill Ave, Smith Dorien Ave. Line Wall Rd,Cable Car/Fire Station, Prince Edward's Rd, Arengo's Palace/St Bernard's Hospital. On half hour back to Both Worlds, down Prince Edward's Rd, Cathedral Sq,Line Wall Rd, Smith Dorien Ave, W. Churchill Ave, Devil's Tower Rd,Caleta Hotel, Both Worlds Mon - Fri 0800-2030(every 30 mins).

Route 3: Runs between Frontier and Light house, Europa Point. Many points includ ing W.Churchill Ave,Smith Dorrien Ave, Line Wall Rd, past Museum,Convent, up Europa Rd. past Casino. Loreto Convent. Mon-Fri 0630-1130 (non-Slop) 1130-2000 (every 30 mins)2100(last bus leaves lighthouse)Sat 0730-2000(every 30 mins)21.00(as above), Sun 0730-1400 (only one bus operating) 1400-2000(every 30 mins)2100(as above)

Route 4: Catalan Bay, Devil's Tower Rd, W. Churchill Ave. Watergardens. Vary! Begg Estate. Gib 5, Safeway Petrol Station, Line Wall Rd, past US 5 British War Memorials. Museum, Cathedral Sq, Cable Car Station.

Fixed: New Year 1 January: Epiphany

6January; St Joseph 19 March: Labour Day

1 May; Si John 24 June, St James 25 July; Assumption Day 15 August; National Day

12 October: All Saints 1 November; Im maculate Conception 8 December; Christ mas 25 December, Moveable: Maundy

end of Alameda Estate, Rosia Rd, up Europa i. Rd past Casino, South Brk Rd, KGV, St f" | Josephs School, down South Pavilion Rd, P stops at Rosia Plaza near 100 ton gun. Re- '| turns past Police HQ,Cumberland Rd. Rosia -4 Rd, Boyd St, Main St, past Convent, Cathe- -i dral Sq, Line Wall Rd. Market PI, Queensway, s up Euoport Ave, Safeway, Watergardens. i t Corral Rd, Winston Churchill Ave, Devil's Tower Rd. Catalan Bay. Mon-Fri0715-2045 (every 15 mins until 1700then every 30 mins) 43 Sat-Sun 0800•2100(every 30 mins). i1

Route 9: Frontier to Market PI and back, i l stops at W.Churchill Ave and Glacis Rd, Mon t b -Fri 0830-2030 (every 15 mini Sat 0800- i\ 2030 (every 15 min) SundayslOOO - 2000 ii (every 20 mins).

Route 10: Runs between Frorjtier.W. Church- 4 ill Ave, Glacis Rd., Watergardens Gib 5, r Safeway. Europort, British War Memorial.Mon • Fri 0815-2000(every 15mi(rs)Sat08401920(every 30 mins)Sunday 0846-1800.

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