Malta was reeling five years ago after a fireworks explosion in the heart of a densely populated area of Naxxar killed a housewife, and a fireworks enthusiast. The blast also demolished four houses and damaged several more, throwing the lives of many people in turmoil.

The explosion took place in Ħal Dgħejf Street.

The innocent victim was Sina Sammut, 35 who had taken her children to school before going shopping. She had just returned home when the blast happened.

In a neighbouring house, young Rachel Bugeja just managed to survive, crawling out of the rubble, saved by a wardrobe that fell over her bed and shielded her from the falling ceiling.

Over the past five years the affected families have working hard to rebuild their homes and lives, a process which is still under way. 

“These have been five hard years,” Vicky Bugeja, whose house was flattened, said. “We had everything and ended up with nothing but, thank God, we’re now settling down again.”

Full story in The Times.