L-Istrina sets new record

An all time record of €3,294,997 million were collected during today's L-Istrina, well over last year's record of €2,566,539. The annual charity fundraiser, which kicked off  just after noon to raise money for people in need, came to an end at midnight. This year’s edition started at SmartCity from where President George Abela appealed for a Smart Strina from SmartCity before he headed off to Verdala Palace to join the rest of the activities. His wife Margaret, who took telephone calls at Verdala, appealed for donations. In his message, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said he was proud of the Maltese and what they represented. L-Istrina, he said, always uncovered the generosity of the Maltese. “We lack natural resources but we are rich in values. “At moments like this, we are proud to show our solidarity and think of others.” Opposition leader Joseph Muscat said there could only be successes with l-Istrina. If a life is lengthened by just one second that is a success. Dr Muscat said that each year he was impressed by the number of people needing assistance who were normal viewers and contributors only the previous year. As with previous years, the day was filled with a range of...