All the way from eShowe for a day in the new year sun were Nothondo Myeza, Sphiwe Luthuli, Nobuhle Luthuli, Sphiwe Myeza and (front) Nokwanda Luthuli
IT was literally a bright and breezy start to the new year at Alkantstrand on Friday, with the scorching sun accompanied by a strong northeaster welcoming visitors from far and wide – as well as those who had spent the night there in party mode.
Even before cleaners had begun mopping up from the previous evening’s revelry, the anticipated crowds started to arrive for the traditional beach bash.
Highlight for most in the morning was the arrival by police chopper of National Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko, accompanied by Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Mmamonnye Ngobeni and MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mike Mabuyakhulu.
They were welcomed by City of uMhlathuze Mayor Mdu Mhlongo, Deputy Mayor Vera Gumbi and uThungulu District Deputy Mayor Nonhle Mkulisi, along with local police and traffic top brass.
The group did a walkabout at Alkantstrand, stressing crime and road safety and handing out pamphlets encouraging lawful behaviour and crime awareness tips.
Preparing for the arrival of the VIPs at the beach were Richards Bay Station Commander Brig Brenda Mgenge, City Manager: Public Safety & Security Zolile Poswa and Supt Johan Plaatjies
Muzi Mbatha travelled down from Ulundi with his wife to spend New Year’s Eve and 1 January at Alkantstrand
By 8am on New Year’s Day, the beach was already starting to fill
Joining the beachgoers at Alkantstrand were Richards Bay Station Commander Brig Brenda Mgenge, Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Mmamonnye Ngobeni , City of uMhlathuze Mayor Mdu Mhlongo, uThungulu District Deputy Mayor Nonhle Mkulisi, City Deputy Mayor Vera Gumbi, National Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko and Empangeni Cluster Commander Maj Gen Zondi
National Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko greets City Deputy Mayor Zethu Gumbi after alighting from the SAPS helicopter. Also there to welcome him were Mayor Mdu Mhlongo and MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mike Mabuyakhulu
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