Birgu Local Council organised a special evening for residents featured in Survivors – The Ageing population of Birgu by Joe P. Smith.

Birgu Local Council invited all those featured in the book, or their immediate families in the case of the former having since passed away, and presented them with a copy of the book, thanking them for the important part they played in the whole project.

This memorable and emotive occasion brought together the photographer, Joe P. Smith, those featured in the book and who are still alive, and their family members. It provided the photographer with the opportunity to meet the extraordinary people who between 2003 and 2006 welcomed him into their homes and shared their life experiences with him.

After short introductory speeches by Joe P. Smith and historian Lino Bugeja, Birgu Mayor, John Boxall, thanked everyone for their cooperation. The Mayor singled out the author who gave birth to the whole idea and persevered to finalise the project, in spite of various difficulties along the way. Mr Boxall described this ageing generation as the real treasure of Birgu and said that it was fitting that their legacies have now been preserved in a book. He added that, whilst being extremely interesting to read, the book will inspire and provide a good example to future generations.

The first person to receive his copy from the mayor was 104-year old Peppi Gellel, the oldest citizen featured in the book. In spite of his venerable age, Peppi is still very active in the community and is an inspiration to his fellow citizens.

The reception which followed provided the perfect opportunity for all the protagonists to reminisce about the last six years, as well as have pictures taken with the author and have their books signed.

When asked how he feels now that his six-year old dream has materialised, Mr Smith said that the response was overwhelming, “There were some bumps along the way but I had to give these extraordinary people something back so I plodded on. It was quite emotional to see relatives of those who have since passed away shed a tear or two when they came face to face with the photographs of their loved ones. When they then came up to me to personally thank me for having preserved their memories, it made it all worthwhile”.