disposal 42 years ago.

And Mr. Smith, who retired this week, is certain that the future looks a lot cleaner in that business.

He said: "I think the incinerator is going to be good for the Island. We have been faced with problems of more and more refuse coming in from estates growing up all over the Island.'' Mr. Smith started working for the Government on July 2, 1951. Waste collection was then a responsibility of the Health Department it moved to Works and Engineering in 1974.

He started work as a sanitation labourer collecting garbage and using vehicles in no way resembling the compaction unit vehicles used today. During the 1950s, garbage collectors had to travel to dump sites all around the Island.

Mr. Smith was promoted to the position of foreman in the mid-60s and was in charge of rubble trucks which supplied material to cover the rotting refuse.

He believes his most challenging job was when he supervised the excavation to eliminate the deep-seated fires which occurred almost daily at the Pembroke Dump.

Mr. Smith was given a surprise party at the Bermuda Industrial Union headquarters where he was presented with a bass guitar. He said: "It was a shock, because I only started to play six months ago. I was overwhelmed.'' The day after Mr. Smith said: "I woke up today and felt I am free to do what I want. But I will probably miss it after a while.

"It was rough at times and there were plenty ups and downs but 42 years is a long time.'' He intends to take a holiday and then try to get part-time work, possibly driving trucks. A Works and Engineering spokesman said: "Mr. Smith has always executed his job to the best of his ability and gained the respect and admiration of all of those who worked with him.'' GUITAR MAN -- Mr. "Joe'' Smith is overcome with emotion after receiving a bass guitar from his workmates.