07 March 2004

Second container leaves for Gaza on 12 March 2004

Wilton Bradley - beachware and toy wholesalers - offered sandals, toys etc last September. This was the stimulus to an iniative which was quickly undertaken by the Exeter Friends of Palestine and which was helped along by the Dove and the Dolphin charity.

Goods have come from far and wide. Irene Fensome, 76 yrs, a good supporter from the time of the voyage at the beginning of 2003, sent 2 large parcels of beautiful knitted baby clothes made by herself and one of her daughters (she has 10 children). These arrived in Devon on the day she was having a major operation. She had found time for knitting and posting.

An Egyptian doctor, who was retiring from his practice in London, donated an examination couch, minor operating table etc. Our local general practice, the Riverside Surgery in Bovey Tracey, has given 2 good couches, these having been superseded, as well as a good wheelchair.

The Bovey Tracey Wesley Guild (to whom I presented 'Eyes Open Gaza' 6 weeks ago) have donated money to the D and D and for this container they have given a large quantity of toiletries. These have been put into toilet bags made by Frances Boulton, another stalwart supporter who lives in Exeter.

Just a few examples at random to show the growing involvement of people in the Westcountry and more widely, with the Palestinian people in their suffering.

We are going to get a request through to the security authorities in Israel. We will ask that when the boxes are opened for inspection, that it be done with reasonable care. We were disturbed to be told that 'box cutters' used during the inspection of the much delayed first container, cut into some of the blankets and clothing.

CONTAINER LOADING IN GEORGE ST. TEIGNMOUTH BETWEEN 8.30am AND 11.30am

TOMORROW 8 MARCH. CONTACT FUAD AL TAWIL 07766 662848

OR DAVE CHAPPELL 07790 727965

David Halpin (Chairman of the Dove and Dolphin charity)