This year's 'Gieh Ghawdex' Awards Ceremony,was once again organised under the distinguished patronage of The President of Malta, Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, and took place last Saturday at Circolo Gozitano's premises in Victoria.

The 'Gieh Ghawdex' award, now in its eleventh year, was instituted by the Circolo Gozitano in 2005, marking the 200th anniversary of the capitulation of the French.

The purpose of this event is to honour personalities and/or organisations who have contributed to the social and economic development of Gozo, as well as to the preservation and promotion of Gozo's distinct identity.

The award is given to Gozitan's who have also attained national and international recognition and standing.

The Gieh Ghawdex award this year, was presented to Dr Tonio Portughese, Mons Emmanuel Curmi and Ms Carmen Grech.

Dr Portughese has attributed significantly to expose Gozo on the television medium. Monseigneur Emmanuel Curmi has given considerable help to several people with special needs whereas Ms Carmen Grech has helped give a better life to persons with hearing disabilities.

Also present for the occasion was the Minister for Gozo Dr Anton Refalo, who was accompanied by his wife.

The event was sponsored by Bank of Valletta, the Ministry for Gozo. Palazzo Antonin Café & Wine Bar.

Since 2005, the 28th of October has become to be known as the 'Jum Ghawdex' or Gozo Day. This is to commemorate one of the most famous chapters in Gozo's history . . . the capitulation of the French in Gozo on 28 October 1798 under the leadership of the Gozitan Archpriest Saverio Cassar. The French stay in Gozo only lasted 141 days!

Photograph: MGOZ/George Scerri

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