These staggering figures are what the Maltese had to endure during the Second World War. Between 1941 and 1942, Malta was bombed more than London was throughout the entire war – bearing in mind that the latter is a city seven times larger than Malta.

This adversity was something the Maltese fought against while on the edge of starvation. Yet they refused to surrender. They were armed with strong faith, pride and grit and standing side by side with the Allies, with only basic defences to overcome odds that even the top military brass thought were impossible.

The Malta Tourism Authority is today organising the second commemoration of the awarding of the George Cross to Malta in St George’s Square, Valletta. Seats are still available and one may make a reservation by calling 2291-5139.

This year’s event is slightly different to the first edition, as it will be a semi-re-enactment and is to be complemented by slides showing the dramatic events which led to the awarding of the George Cross.

More than 60 members of the George Cross Island Association of the UK as well as another 20 members of the Malta George Cross Islanders Association will be attending.

The event starts at 7.45pm and will take around an hour. Admission is free and attendees are asked to be seated at least 15 minutes before.