The Kummisjoni Zghazagh Bastjanizi has saluted the memory of Fredu Stellini and Damien Agius, who died in the fireworks explosion at Qormi yesterday afternoon.

James J. Piscopo, the commission's public relations officer, said that Damien, 21, who used to be called Djamant, had had good prospects in the manufacture of ground fireworks.

Alfred, on the other hand, was a family man and an expert in the production of fireworks.

"The Lord wanted to call them early to enjoy their spectacle well before the Ground Fireworks Festival," Mr Piscopo said.

He said that Damien was very active in practically all societies involved in the organisation of the St Sebastian feast. He used to help out in the fireworks, street decorations, bell ringing and, particularly, within the youth commission itself, of which he was deputy chairman for some time. He was also a close follower of Qormi FC.

"He was also happy, he used to tease people sometimes, but he always wore a smile and was full of enthusiasm."

Fredu Stellini too was always a happy man, Mr Piscopo said. "He was a man of values, for whom the family came first, even though he had to endure great personal sacrifice when he needed to work abroad in conditions which were not the safest for workers."

The commission thanked the two men for their generosity and for the love they had shared.

The funeral Mass will be held tomorrow at St Sebastian Church at 3 p.m.