Sagres School Ship Docks in Funchal Harbour

In Search of Hope – by Sam Gannon

Seconded to the parish of Tililngdon, the Reverend Dolores has been presented with a challenge.

She’s living in an antiquated house and she’s cold. Furthermore, her new Bishop, Bishop Alice does not approve of ‘showgirls in dog collars.’

Determined to prove the Bishop wrong, she sets about warming her house – who cares if it smells of horse! There is the crochet club, jumble sale, and soup run to organise. And this year, the church bells will ring, no matter what threats are made. Even more so, the newly formed choir will spread a little joy this Christmas, even though they can’t sing – yet! And with a little help from Phil, her bassist, this year could be full of magic.

However, she has a fight on her hands as the townies out in Knob Hill – she must stop calling it that, are trying to stop her from ringing her bells. When Krystal with a K decides to do some volunteer work, Dolores sets out to see just how committed she really is.

Up to her ears in granny squares and squawking choristers, Dolores is revving up for Christmas, yet a deeper darker secret is beginning to emerge!

A secret that could blow the whole parish apart and put Dolores in danger.

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The Portuguese naval training ship, NRP Sagres, docked in Funchal harbour yesterday and will remain here until Sunday when it will leave for the Azores via Porto Santo. This is the ships first stop on its two and a half month voyage from Lisbon Naval Base. On board are 169, 3rd year cadets from the Naval School commanded by Captain António Camilo.

The Sagres training ship is a national symbol, which has carried the national flag around the world for the past 55 years, in its mission to represent Portugal and the Portuguese Navy.

Due to the pandemic situation, no visitors will be allowed onboard.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com