An interesting evening commemorating the 60th anniversary of the death of Emanuel Benjamin Vella, scholar, linguist and author and archaeologist, born and bred in Mosta, recently took place in the Mosta council hall.

E. B. Vella (1899-1946) is however best remembered as an educationalist - teacher, lecturer, head teacher and school inspector. A series of seven books, which he prepared for students in primary schools - Gabra ta' Ward - was in use for 40 years.

The programme, presented by Cassandra Camilleri, a pupil at Mosta Primary, included an introduction by the head of school, Mr A. Attard, who said he felt proud that his school hears the scholar's name because it really honoured the memory of an esteemed personality.

Mr Hilary Vella, president of the school council, spoke about the merits of his uncle and his various contributions to the fields of literature history, archaeology and education.

Students read various excerpts from E. B. Vella's books, among them L-Istorja tal-Mosta fil-Knisja Taghha.

An imaginary episode from E. B. Vella's life, written by Zeppi Camilleri, relates Vella's first encounter with Dr Albert Laferla, director of education. The meeting, acted by the students, was followed by the school choir who sang Dun Karm's sonnet Lil E.B. Vella, set to music for the occasion by music teacher Anthony Farrugia.

The well-known author J. J. Camilleri read his poem Mhux Kulhadd Jintesa to commemorate the memory of his compatriot and dedicated to those who emulate him and labour for the common good.

Mosta mayor Joe Demartino said it was the duty of the council to honour personalities like E. B. Vella and to acknowledge their contribution publicly.