I saved a young Maltese boy from the sea at St George’s Bay on July 4, 1974. I was on detachment with the Royal Air Force from Britain and the incident happened while I was on duty.

I believe Charlie was his name and he had gone for a swim with a friend. He was taken to hospital by ambulance and I have never seen him again since, despite my efforts to try and find him on returning to Malta on a number of occasions, both with the RAF and as a civilian with my wife, Ruth.

Charlie, I estimate, must be in his mid- to late 40s by now and with a family of his own. I thank God that I was there that day and that a life was saved.

I was told that the hospital did not keep emergency records for long and that there was little hope of finding Charlie.

I believe God keeps a close eye on Malta. Through the good times and bad times, in particular, He has delivered its people from the terrible effects and destruction of the last war. I believe the Mosta bomb that did not go off was divine intervention. And, yes, He even placed me at that place and time to save that boy!

May God always be with you and protect Malta.