FANALS: A popular pastime in The Gambia, particularly in Bathurst, is the building of a certain type of model boat known as FANALS. The origin of the word is rather obscure, but it is thought to have been derived from the Portuguese word for lantern. These models are built by Mohammedans for the feast of Ramadan, and by Christians for Christmas. The annual building of the models begins in October, and the finished products of wood decorated with designs in paper, and lit by candles in lanterns, are carried in procession on Christmas Eve by the builders, who dress up in various styles. The 1.23b depicts a model sailing ship and the 2b, a model passenger liner.
Gambia 1972 1.25b and 2b sg?, scott282/83.
Source Mr. R.J. Pollard, Watercraft Philately 1983 page 70.