A shining example

My wife and I recently decided to try the local bus service operating around the Sliema area from opposite Tigné Court Hotel to the Ferries.

Unfortunately, our experience was not a pleasant one - the driver of the service driving on discourteously and finally ignoring us completely.

The weather happened to develop suddenly into a dull and gusty day which we did not expect, so being stranded was not something we desired as we are senior citizens.

However, out of this ill-conduct flowered our finest hour ever with the Sliema warden service and it is for this reason that we are recording this tribute. A warden happened to be in the Qui-si-Sana area and noticed what had happened. This fine gentleman not only took it upon himself to try and bring some good manners out of the bus driver but also offered to take us to our intended destination with his own transport.

Far above his charm of manner was his persuasive gentleness. We learnt that his name was Mario and his number 99. He insisted on seeing us down to the Ferries using his personal transport and would not take "no" for an answer. Moreover, he told us that this was what wardens are for, and invited us not to hesitate to contact him again, if ever we ran into any difficulty and he happened to be in the area.

We know that the warden service has been getting criticism and that some wardens may leave a lot to be desired. But this man stood out as a monumental example of what is ideally desired and expected.

He firmly declined any payment or tipping too, leaving us open-mouthed at the rare display of manner and dedication.

Thank you Sliema warden service. Thank you Mario. Qui-si-Sana residents are privileged to have someone like you around.