``The very existence of the tunnel shattered whatever remnants might have remained of Britain's tattered criminalisation policy, and sent a clear message around the world that not only does Britain continue to hold captive prisoners of war, but that those prisoners of war remain undefeated.''

So goes the editorial of this special edition of the republican POWs' magazine, An Glór Gafa, dedicated to `Operation Tollán'. Although unsuccessful, the tunnel shows all the ingenuity and determination of IRA Volunteers held within the confines of Long Kesh in making a positive contribution to the freedom struggle.

The whole story of the tunnel in H7 is told in great detail by the Volunteers involved (and various reactions from some who weren't), from the planning to the briefings, the characters, the conditions and roles, the highs and lows and the various methods used to combat problems such as the removal of debris without attracting the attention of the screws. Water was one of the main problems and the fact it was the wettest February in 200 years didn't help. The personal feelings and reactions of the men involved are also dealt with, security being paramount by all involved. Humour, as always, abounds throughout.

The aftermath of the finding of tunnel is dealt with and the ``ongoing security operation'' annouced by the authorities. This in reality meant withdrawal of prisoners' rights, visits stopped, educational facilities stopped and republican prisoners held in solitary confinement. Then all the sectarianism and vindictiveness of the British statelet in the guise of riot squads, beatings and violent strip-searches. All are detailed by the POWs: ``British vindictiveness and violence could not overcome republican comradeship and resistance.''

Hopefully it will be the last escape attempt by republicans from a British jail, the next exit being the last - through the front gate!

On a sadder note the death of County Laois Volunteer Pat Kelly , another victim of British vindictiveness in English jails, is chronicled in an obituary by his comrades.

With excellent photos and illustrations this magazine makes it more than worth its £1 cover price, and, like its Iris predecessor detailing the 1983 Great Escape, is sure to become a collectors' item.

BY CIARAN HEAPHEY

Legends brought to life

As the title suggests this book is for 5 to 8 year old. It is one to read together enjoying the brilliant illustrations that help bring the story to life. Three legends are offered: ``How Setanta became Cúchulann', `The Children of Lir' and `Oisín in Tír na nOg'.

The first of these about little 7 year old Setanta has its emphasis on the fears ad hopes of young children. Setanta is able to play harder and fight better than any of the bigger boys from the Machra. Many of his brave deeds take place in the dark of night, alone, in forests `full of wild animals who might gobble him up for dinner'.

But little Setanta always wins through. The boy's vulnerability and the terrors he confronts are underscored by the illustrations. They resemble the drawings of young children and have a comical note to them to; Culann's hound subdued with stars around his head where Setanta knocked him out being one of many.

The illustrations of wicked Aoife putting her spell on the children of Lir is heartbreaking. Of course she gets her comeuppance in this too sad tale of four children turned into swans for 900 years by their wicked step-mother.

The last legend Oísín in Tír na nOg is told simply and effectively. Again, it is the drawings that will make shared reading with your kids so much fun. Niamh from Tír na nOg is portrayed as a little girl dressed up as a princess and the giant that Oísín slays is terrifying. There is enough of magic in this story alone to keep a child entertained over several readings.

This is a lovely book. At £4.99 is is overprice for 63 pages. But it is definitely one for kids and adults to enjoy together.