Updated | L-Istrina collects €3,292,000

Once again L-Istrina has exceeded all expctations and the sum collected by 12:15am was above €2,292,000, smashing the previous record set last year.

L-Istrina, the annual charity fundraiser, kicked off just after noon with President George Abela and his wife Margaret setting the tone for the activity which raises money for people in need.

 "This is a celebration, not of charity, but of love. From SmartCity we hope to have a SmartStrina," Presdident Abela said in a brief message which kicked off the 12-hour telethon.

Speaking from Verdala, Margaret Abela appealed for the people's generosity.

Abela was speaking from SmartCity in Kalkara and he will later head to Verdala Palace to join the rest of the activities.

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said "I am proud of the Maltese people and their values which differentiate us from other countries. L-Istrina exposes the generosity of the Maltese people who compared to bigger countries have no natural resources apart from the natural beauty which surrounds us and our values. I am proud of the people's solidarity, and today is a special occasion to give a little to the many who need help."

Appealing to all viewers to maintain the success story of L-Istrina, Labour leader Joseph Muscat said "L-Istrina is certainly not a  failure but it has only given us successes, helping people by offering treatment and lengthen people's lives. Every year I am impressed with people's experiences who recount how they donated money the previous year and never imagining that they would have to recur to the services of the Community Chest Fund and the country's solidarity structures. The little people donate is returned a million times over."

In 2011, L-Istrina broke its previous record, set the year before, reaching the sum of €2.5 million. The donations collected during L-Istrina will be shared among a number of organisations including the Community Chest Fund.

People can donate money by calling 5180 2012 (€25), 5170 2011 (€15), 5160 2027 (€10), 5150 2026 (€5) or by SMS on  5061 9201 (€11.65).

The telethon was broadcast live on all local television stations, however the activity could also be viewed on L-Istrina's Facebook page and donations can also be made through the new website l-istrina.org. Online donations topped €50,000, around €20,000 more then last year';s tally. Online donations will be accepted till 6 January.

The event saw a number of performances, including music, dancing and games, by artists and other well-known persons.