Spinning demonstration

To all my old friends and acquaintances who come to watch me spin at Mnajra and not forgetting those who just by chance see me spinning. I am sorry that I was not there this year.

I was at Buskett Gardens on Monday doing my bit for Malta, judging the wool and cotton. After judging I sat for some considerable time spinning for a gentleman who is making a film about wool. We were some distance from my normal spot and you possibly missed seeing me.

On Mnajra day we arrived bright and early and found that the winery was full. This area is supposed to be for those involved in running the Mnajra, judges and people like me who give demonstrations. Tickets are issued on application and have to be displayed on the windscreen. Because there was no space available, I decided to go home.

The car was abandoned in a taped off area, with help from a very kind traffic policeman. I collected my wheel and equipment and left after making my apologies to the committee members.

Truth to tell, a long walk back to Buskett and a long walk in the midday sun to collect the car is not on.

I was extremely upset, I had let you down. I know many of you bring your children, grand children and other relatives to see an old craft that has died out, only practised now as a hobby.

I have learnt a lot from those ladies who used to spin and weave. They, in turn, have been quite interested in what is being done by hand spinners in other countries at the present time.

I have written to the Commissioner of Police regarding this problem and I do hope that the matter will be resolved. Then we can park and I can spin just for you. See you all next year, God willing.