Saturday  Aug 6th :  Today's Blog by David . 36:08.91N 05:21.32W

The mechanic duly arrived from the UK on Thursday bringing with him the parts required by the rigger.

Bob and the mechanic has a very long day on Thursday as the cam belt timing was replaced using our spares kit. The engine was pronounced repaired by 20.00 for a sea trial we left the pontoon (Hooray!) for a sea trial – motoring around  giving the engine a good thrash at the same time enabling us to see the Rock from the sea. Back on the pontoon at 21.00 the intrepid duo then began to dismantle the generator while I cooked dinner.    Meanwhile the rigger was assembling the mast furling gear box. We ate around 22.15 and to bed.

Friday was a day of building optimism. Lindsey, the mechanic,  finished the generator and then spent an hour giving various tips as to how to fix things before catching  a plane around 13.00. I had lunch with Pepe/Joe from Deloitte having arranged to meet Sean the rigger at 14.30 to trial the  rebuilt motor. All seems to work well.

The team worked hard yesterday afternoon washing and  tidying up the boat, ashore buying provisions and preparing for sea. We also erected the bimini to provide shelter from the sun at sea. Ashore to LA Linea for a valedictory (and excellent)  steak dinner.

The dawn broke again  today (which actually was not a surprise)  – more blue sky (neither was that). The forecast is good – although the wind  may be a little light. And so in about 60 minutes………… we will leave Gibraltar  (Hip Hip…..HOORAY!) bound direct for the Canaries.