Question for O Gaggia Ice Cream Maker

Hi Everyone

My question is directed at O but someone else may have an answer. My new Gaggia Gelatiera has arrived and looks OK (can't use it until at least 2.30am tomorrow because of the refrigeration unit having to settle). I am slightly confused about the removable bowl. The instructions tell you to use water mixed with 'alimentary alcohol' (to me, that says 'vodka', which I hate but have in the store cupboard) in between the fixed bowl and the removable one. Here in the UK, we can't buy pure alcohol from the chemist like people can in most other parts of the world - I suppose our Government are worried about us drinking it! Am I correct in buttuming I can use vodka and what have you used, O?

I shall give it a go tomorrow evening - am working in Lincoln's Inn all day tomorrow. I have put my 22-year-old ICTC machine, which is a tad bigger than the new Gaggia, in my office pending daughter getting a bigger flat, when I shall give it to her. If I am to be honest, it isn't that much different from the Gaggia, except for its age, lack of removable bowl and faded plastic casing and I may use it occasionally in situ on the spare desk. Ice cream amongst the filing:) I have a sneaking suspicion (if it is anything like my ancient Magimix - now in the possession of said daughter) that it may still be on the go long after the new one has ceased to be, but we shall have to wait and see.

PS One thing amused me in the instruction book - it refers to 'ice scream' at one point. -- June Hughes