Update: Traditionally the day after Christmas has become synonymous with the annual charity fund raising event L-Istrina. It is an event held in both Malta and Gozo on the 26th of December to raise money for those who are less fortunate.
In Gozo the event got under way in Independence Square, entertainment for the audience there included music and dance amongst other things. The event is also being shown live on the main local television stations.
The President of Malta, Dr George Abela opened the charity event in Malta, he was accompanied by Dr Joseph Muscat and Dr Lawrence Gonzi, they all urged everyone to donate generously to the cause. By the middle of the afternoon over €500,000 had been collected. Just after 10pm this evening it was announced that around €1.9 million had been donated.
Donations can be made by calling: 5004 9005 (€12), 5004 9010 (€24) or by sending an SMS to 5061 8918 (€6.99) or 5061 9222 (€11.65).
When the L-Istrina charity marathon came to a close the amount pledged came to approximately €2.3 million.