ESCORCA
THE famous Boys Choir of Lluc Sanctuary is in the news these days because it has become modernised, with the admission of six new girls to its ranks this year, and because it is a clear example of inter-cultural integration. Three girls were admitted last year and are now full members, while six new girls have been admitted this year, and the fathers of half of them come from different parts of the world. The reasons why the girls study at Lluc and sing in the choir, known as Els Blauets or “Blue Ones” because they wear blue cassocks, are varied. One girl said she studied because her uncle and brother had done so before her. She had wanted to join some time ago, but could not as girls were barred. The choir has given recitals around the world and has made several recordings.

Fair a success

PORT OF POLLENSA
THE port's first maritime fair which opened yesterday afternoon looks as though it is going to be a huge success. It has been organised by the town council to promote products of the sea, and to enable people get to know ancient crafts, such as traditional methods of boat building. There are many other attractions at the fair, which will continue today. They include an exhibition of model ships in the Club Nautico and audiovisuals on themes connected with the sea at the fishermen's centre. The group Corda Amarada will give a concert at 8pm and the fair ends at 10pm.

Tradition revived

PETRA
THE town of Petra will recover its Bunyol or fritter festival, 25 years after it was dropped. The council plans to include it in its trade fair in October. Councillor Tomeu Gual said that it would be held in the Escoles Velles, although the actual date has yet to be set. He added it will be held in the evening, there will be a barbecue and as dessert, an opportunity to taste the bunyols for which the town is famous.

Ruins visited

MANACOR
A group of nostalgic ex-workers of the emblematic Majórica artificial pearl factory visited the ruins of the factory which has now been demolished. They recalled old times, when the factory was once the flagship of Majorcan industry, exporting pearls as far afield as Japan.

Fire fighting congress

IBIZA
THE Council of Ibiza and Formentera has organised a congress on fire fighting which will be held on October 6 and 7. Council spokesman Diego Guash said it would discuss various problems facing firemen in several aspects of protection. The organisers expect about 50 specialists to attend the congress at which the latest techniques, systems and methods of protecing against fire will be presented.

German drowns

COLONIA DE SANT JORDI
A German aged about 65 died while swimming at the resort of Colonia de Sant Jordi in Ses Salines yesterday. According to police sources, the man became unwell in the water, and was unable to reach the shore. Paramedics rushed to the scene but were unable to save his life. The sources said that the accident occurred at about 2pm.