Tourists Pitch Tent Near Precipice

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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Photographs sent to DIÁRIO appear to show tourists camping in a dangerously exposed area beside the Pináculo Viewpoint in São Gonçalo, Funchal.

The images show a tent pitched close to the edge of the cliff, apparently secured to a tree and metal structures outside the viewpoint’s designated public area. Trainers, backpacks, and other belongings can also be seen nearby, suggesting that the location was being used for an overnight stay.

The makeshift campsite is situated in one of the viewpoint’s most hazardous areas, beyond the main viewing space and beside a steep drop.

Standing approximately 283 metres above sea level, the Pináculo Viewpoint is one of Madeira’s most photographed locations and is popular with residents and tourists for its panoramic views over Funchal and the coastline. It is situated beside Rua Conde Carvalhal in the parish of São Gonçalo.

This is not the first time that tourists have camped in such a precarious spot.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com