"Interessting that our only votes came from Ireland (our neighbour) and Malta which we used to occupy and probably own (Not very clear on the politics here!)"

Strangely Lynne, the voting by Ireland is probably political. If you look back, it has been almost a tradition for the UK to give points to Irish entries, but for no points to be awarded by the Irish to UK entries. The change of mood in Northern Ireland has altered the position vis-a-vis Anglo/Eire relationships.

Malta was not, and is not a British possession, but was of such strategic importance during WWII that britain pulled out all the stops to defend it from invasion.

Initially the RAF force on the island was three obsolete biplanes (Gloster Gladiators i believe), call signed faith, hope, and charity.

These held off the Italian airforce attacks until a squadron or two of Spitfires could fly in.

Malta took a hell of a pounding from enemy bombers which resulted in the whole island being awarded the George Cross, but still seem to be Anglophiles.

Paddy, I think that Terry has lived and worked so long in England that he regards it as home. He may even have accepted naturalisation when it was offered some years back. Certainly the English government who added his name to the honours list, resulting in his knighthood, seem to accept him as "one of ours" .

Don T.