Convoy arrival marked in London

The George Cross Island Association marked the 44th anniversary of the arrival of the Santa Marija Convoy with a service of remembrance and re-dedication in London, at the National Malta Memorial in Tower Place near the Church of All Hallows.

There was a strong turnout of veterans who had seen service in Malta as well as of Maltese who live in London.

The monument was inaugurated in 2005 by President Eddie Fenech Adami and the Duke of Edinburgh.

The service was led by the Reverend Bernard Olivier of All Hallows Church and by Fr Victor Camilleri OFM.

Wreaths were laid on behalf of the people of Malta, GCIA, the Three Services, the Merchant Navy, GCIA branches, M.O.T.Hs and HMS Ledbury.

The Maltese High Commissioner in London, Michael Refalo, addressed the gathering and was preceded by the President of GCIA UK, Julia Gaw, who later invited Dr Refalo to inspect the flag bearers.

Messages were received from GCIA honorary presidents HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and President Emeritus Dr Vincent Tabone, as well as from GCIA national chairman Maj. Stanley Clews and GCIA vice chairman Malta and chairman Malta GC Branch Lt Col. Antoine Pace Bonello.

The Maltese and British National anthems brought the ceremony to a close.

The High Commissioner and Mrs Refalo were later the GCIA's guests of honour at a lunch at the Union Jack Club in Waterloo.