The Islander - Thursday 23rd July 1998

PRESIDENT MANDELA OF SOUTH AFRICA PASSES THROUGH ASCENSION

On Monday the 20th of July, a South African Air Force jet carrying President Nelson Mandela stopped in at Ascension for re-fuelling. Unfortunately (to the intense disappointment of the awaiting crowds), Mr Mandela remained on the aircraft during the 30 minute stop-over en route to Brasilia from Luanda, Angola. Mr Mandela was understandably tired, after a weekend during which he celebrated his 80th birthday, and got married. (Image Right,. RAF CO Adrian Hayward looks on as the President's jet prepares to depart.)