A system of water canals at Għar Ilma, limits of Kerċem, built in the 1880s by the British to supply water to the aqueduct from Santa Luċija to Victoria, have been restored by the Santa Luċija administrative council. The work was financed by the Gozo Ministry and HSBC’s Catch the Drop campaign.

The campaign supports initiatives that raise awareness about water conservation and encourage a positive change in Malta and Gozo by using water wisely and in a sustainable way. HSBC Malta CEO Andrew Beane said: “Għar Ilma enjoys historic significance on a national level, and creating easier public access to it ensures that this important aspect of the country’s history can be appreciated by visitors to Gozo. Preserving Għar Ilma is about preserving the rich and unique culture of Gozo for future generations.”

The project was inaugurated by Mr Beane and Gozo Minister Anton Refalo.