PW_4_2018

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Gibraltar Section give warm welcome to Avon & Somerset Colin Girdlestone and Sue Read Avon & Somerset members were made very welcome by the President and members of Gibraltar Section when they visited earlier this year. Colin Girdlestone provides his view of the 4 day trip: I t was during the ‘mini Beast from the East’ and over several hours , that the Gibraltar IPA Expedition gathered in Bristol Airport. It was snowing heavily and began to look like a blizzard, but we just grinned at On Tuesday, four of our group went on a tour of the upper rock to view natural caves and military tunnels. The 18th century tunnels were awe-inspiring when one considers the tools available. Massive cannons were poking out of thousand foot high embrasures and the World War II workings were even more impressive.

each other and used the time-honoured phrase, “Mustn’t grumble”. The announcement that the runway was now cleared was met with a huge cheer. After a whole day of waiting, we boarded the plane but had to await de-icing before we left. Once airborne we received a complimentary drink, tea, coffee or soft drink which, as they rarely give anything for free, indicated how concerned Easyjet were for our welfare. Upon arrival in Gibraltar, we were taken to the world renowned Rock Hotel. Comfortable rooms with fantastic sea views, and the public areas were still very posh. After a drink and supper all members collapsed into bed, being thoroughly bushed. Next day we did our own thing until an arranged lunch time meeting with the Gibraltar Police IPA at their very well appointed police club. Paella or chicken & chips were on the menu and were well received to help the discussions between our two groups. Gifts were exchanged and we learnt that Gibraltar Police are well financed, fully manned and well respected by the general public. The IPA welcome all visiting members to their club for food and drink at very reasonable prices. The weather was, for our party, very acceptable but the locals said it was a little on the unseasonal side for them. Whilst the hotel supplied a very substantial breakfast, evening meals were at our discretion. A little Italian restaurant at the bottom of our hill below the hotel met the needs of many in the party.

Wednesday was, for some, a trip to Tangiers for: speedy rides on camels, bargains from the Casbah and, according to Sindbad Read, a very dramatic voyage over and back. Everyone who ventured on this trip said it was very good and worth the expense. Those who remained in Gibraltar went exploring on foot and on buses around the Peninsular. The buses are excellent value as a £1.50 ticket called a ‘hopper’ enabled an all-day pass on any bus. Thursday arrived and, after packing and securing our luggage, we enjoyed another free day in town. The old town still retains its quaintness and oozes history. The main street runs the whole length of the town with every sort of shop from Ali Muhets to Marks & Spencer. Outside of the walled town you could be in New York or anywhere similar. There are huge blocks going up, in all shapes and sizes, and each day thousands cross the border from Spain for work, with the vast majority of them in the construction industries. A fish & chip lunch was enjoyed in the main Square with a hot sun beaming down: the sort of thing you would willingly pay good money to enjoy. At the airport, we had yet another wait - this time courtesy of French Air Traffic Controllers. A very enjoyable outing, appreciated by all who went. Thank you to the Organisers.

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POLICE WORLD Vol 63 No. 4, 2018