Mark arrived on Sunday and since then we have had a busy few days. I stripped down the autopilot unit and replaced the old plastic gears inside with a set of new metal ones that Mark brought out from the UK. A quick test is indicating that all now appears OK so we can test it when we go back to sea. The new bow navigation light is fitted - we'll try not to snap this one off again with the cruising chute as we did with the last one! The engine oil filter and oil have been changed, next change in a further 250 hours. Tracey has been busy repairing our Ocean Cruising Club and Westerly Owners' Association burgees which have been badly damaged in the very strong winds over the past week. Mark and I have rigged the spinnaker pole in a more secure manner so that it does not suffer any more damage when we are using it with the cruising chute. It involves an old carpet, string, tie wraps....you know, the usual Blue Peter stuff! We have enjoyed a very good meal in the Yacht Club restaurant at the end of our pontoon (!) and are heading back tomorrow for a final steak before we depart on Thursday morning. It's about 330 nm to Malta in a straight line and not much wind is forecast so I'm anticipating a three day journey. Leaving Thursday mid-day will hopefully get us to Malta for Sunday mid-day but this is not really that predictable. I have booked us into a marina in advance as Valetta is a busy place in August. So, all looking good at the moment and hence time to head to the club for a swift Sardinian beer or two!