It was a sad day today because Gillian Brion, the hard-working British Vice Consul at the Consulate in Palma retired after many years of dedicated service. Gillian is probably one of the most modest people I have ever met. She is camera shy and doesn't really like the limelight but this doesn't hide all her hard work and dedication over the years. Quite rightly, she will be receiving the MBE for her services to the British community on the island and the millions of visiting tourists. The presentation will take place at Buckingham Palace later this summer. I have known Gillian for many years and it has always been a pleasure to work alongside her. Her hard work and dedication was clearly evident in a Channel 4 documentary which was filmed about six years ago. In fact, I remember writing in this newspaper that the British Consulate had shone in the documentary but that Gillian was the star of the show. But our ever modest British Vice Consul dismissed the statement, saying that it was all a team effort. The British ambassador to Spain, Simon Manley, presided over a farewell reception for Gillian at the Consulate today. But I am glad to say that her final act as British Vice Consul to the Balearics was to attend the Bulletin working breakfast at our offices in Palma. Gillian has always been a great friend of this newspaper for which we are very grateful. Gillian, enjoy your retirement and on behalf of Bulletin readers thank you for all your hard work and dedication.