Throughout the year, Estie Marais and Mavis Maluleke have put considerable effort into teaching English to the children at Pegmin crèche. Aged between three and four years old, they are now - almost without exception - able to say the entire alphabet, count from one to 20, and name the parts of the body from head to toe. They have also learnt some short poems which they enjoy reciting as a group.

A visit to the crèche is a wonderful experience as the children are extremely well behaved and eager to greet visitors. They take great pleasure in showing off their ability to speak English and they can tell you their names, surnames and parents’ names.

Pegmin mine staff were recently intrigued to find out that they produce 'Weissquartz' (German for ‘white quartz'). The purity and translucent colour of these quartz crystals make them ideal for healing. Alternative therapists use them to heal a number of ailments as well as to balance the body's energy and mood. Weissquartz crystals need to be specially hand-selected.

A huge market? Unfortunately not! Pegmin produces enough Weissquartz crystals in a mere 23 minutes to supply the entire local healing crystal market for two years!

Congratulations to Ron and Lorraine on the birth of Harry Freeman Weissenberg. He was born on 6 September 2005 and weighed 1.9kg

According to proud dad Ron, although Harry was premature and needed to spend his first few weeks away from home, he nevertheless entered the world screaming!

Congratulations to Johnny & Stella on the birth of Ariella Kyra Fenster. She was born on 3 June 2005, weighing in at 2.72 kg.

Born screaming, she continues in the same Mediterranean vociferous way - demanding and getting what she wants. Ariella is been cuddled by older sister Gallia.