Around 20 former Navy British pensioners yesterday took a trip down memory lane when they had the opportunity to visit their former naval headquarters, Whitehall Mansions, which now houses the British High Commission.

Chatting constantly about their love for Malta, they recounted their experiences – how they met their spouses and fell in love, the adventures they had, the buses and Maltese way of driving but always mentioning their deep love for Malta.

One couple, Dennis and Teresa Alderman, explained that the first time they came to Malta was for a one-night stop to get married.

Mrs Alderman explained that she originally wanted to get married in a church but was not allowed because her husband was not a Catholic. So, as a result, they got married in Whitehall Mansions.

“People were not allowed to use the front stairs to enter Whitehall unless you were getting married – I was lucky enough to do so on my wedding day,” she said.

Mr and Mrs Alderman visited Malta again, staying for two years in Gzira and Msida between 1963 and 1965.

Mr Alderman jokingly pointed out that even though Maltese roads have improved a lot “and now you have traffic lights”, bus drivers – even the young ones – are still as grumpy as ever and “never give the correct change!”

Former Women’s Royal Naval Service Officer (Wren) Polly Booth, who now lives in Portsmouth described Malta as “terrific”.

“When I was 18, people didn’t go for holidays with their family so when I was posted in Malta in 1963 I was so excited,” she said.

“The weather was always warm and we swam every day. The place was fantastic – everyone spoke English and the Maltese were so friendly,”

Even though the British left Malta in 1964, the majority always dropped by to visit Malta and their favourite spots over the years.

“The people haven’t changed – they are still as friendly as ever and the island is still beautiful,” said Garnet Little, who organised the trip.

Many commented on how Malta’s appearance has changed over the years with more buildings spread around the island. However, they all pointed out that change was something that cannot be stopped and emphasised how they loved coming back.

The pensioners also met British High Commissioner Nick Archer and recounted various experiences that took place in different places in the islands.

Mr Archer said that he always learnt something new each time. “It is very important to remember the past as you will have a much stronger base for the future,” he said.