aircraft, would add to the Farm produce by bringing in supplies of fruits and vegetables, some dairy produce and other perishables.  Despite the limitations, both Daphne and Peter insist the contentment and community spirit was strong.

The privilege of being an 18 year old allowed a monthly ration of two bottles of spirits per month. Each bottle costing just 5 shillings, that is 50pence. Peter had a head start!

Both Peter and Daphne lament the introduction of videos and television. The sharing of skills, talent and strength of the community was lost when folk were mesmerised by the ‘box’.  Added to this, was the continuing budgetary restrictions each company was pressured into from remote head offices.  The Island slowly lost the events that brought the whole community together, when barriers were lowered in the spirit of Christmas, Fourth of July, Ascension Day Fair, Pig Dance, Ascension Island

Sports Day and many more. Most of these occasions could only take place with financial and other support from the Organisations. It was evident listening to Peter, how the value of the ‘people support’ was overlooked in the bigger picture of figures in books.

Peter, had remained in the same job with variations in the job title, but the company changed names from, Cable and Wireless to Ascension Island Services, which became APL and finally AICS.  One gets a feeling of disappointment and disillusionment with the system and management and lack of involvement of experienced personnel throughout all the changes.  It is possible to sense the loss and errors incurred by the changes and the frustrations Peter felt throughout the time here.  He expressed strongly the sense of duty, with safety and well being each person held for each other and so the team.  These were carried out as good work colleagues and practices rather than for some recognition or accreditation.

In the 70’s, a project that was of great significance to many on the Island for providing power and water and extra income for the eager youngsters came into being. The BBC Power and Transmitter Stations and later Two Boats Village were being constructed.

Life improved enormously within the 70s’ and 80s’, although the restrictions of colonialism were still evident.  The Exiles Club was still out of bounds, but there was always a lively skittles match or dancing or other activity very well attended at the Saints Club.  Ascension Sports Day was a two-day affair and it brought out a lot of ambitious sportsmen and women out.  The highlight was always the mystery race and the tug of war. Daphne’s team was the Banana Bunch.