The Islander - Thursday 20th August 1998

COMMANDOS STAND BY IN ASCENSION

Royal Marine Commandos are currently standing by in Ascension ready to assist in the evacuation of British Nationals and allies from Kinshasa in strife-torn Congo, at the request of the British Ambassador as HM Government continues to monitor the situation closely.

An increase in aircraft activity at the Airhead may be possible in the next few days as equipment and personnnel arrive in support of this strictly humanitarian operation.

REEF SHARK CAUGHT OFF PIER HEAD

Patrick Sim, Noddy Lawrence and Dutch Lawrence rnanaged to land this 230Ib reef shark on Sunday night whilst fishing off Georgetown Pier Head.

The many children present threatened to "throw the Islander photographer to the sharks" unless their picture appeared in this issue. The Islander is quite fearless and resolute against such threats.

CHANGE AT THE TOP FOR CABLE & WIRELESS

General Manager of Cable & Wireless Ascension Island John Cavana (pictured below) is to take on increased responsibilities resulting from a recent re-organisation within the company following the retirement of George Stevens, General Manager St Helena. John will shortly become "General Manager of Cable & Wireless St Helena and Ascension". Ray Elick (pictured right) becomes the manager in Ascension, with Hensil O'Bey taking over in St Helena. John will split his time 50/50 between the two locations.

John has worked for Cable & Wireless since 1969, serving in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, and the Eastern Caribbean from the British Virgin Islands in the North to St Vincent and the Grenadines in the South.

The new management arrangement will take effect from the 17th of September this year, when John arrives in St Helena for the first of many visits .......................................................By Steve Fowler