oversee the organisation of a major international event.

A legal notice was printed in a weekend newspaper announcing that Brian Billings, John Wadson and David Hamshere had applied to incorporate a local company limited by guarantee which would be called Tall Ships 2000 -Bermuda.

The move is in preparation for the Tall Ships 2000 race which Bermuda will host in the Millennium.

Some 140 ships are expected to take part in the race which will begin in Cadiz, Spain and finish on or around June 9 in Bermuda.

The three are members of the Port Committee which was set up to handle fundraising and administration for the event which will also provide opportunities for young people between the ages of 15 and 25 who want to take part in the voyage from Europe to Bermuda.

The company will handle liabilities associated with the event and assist in raising funds and organising the massive event which is expected to attract scores of visitors to the Island's shores and provide numerous sail training opportunities for young people.

Listed as objectives of the company are: the promotion, development and support within and outside Bermuda of the tall ships yacht race together with connected functions and activities; the sponsorship of young Bermudians who wish to participate in the race; the assistance and support of any yacht, participant, crew members, supporters or other person connected with the race; to teach the Island's maritime history to locals and visitors and increase the understanding and appreciation of Bermudian character and spirit; to foster interest in the historical significance of Bermuda's maritime heritage and to secure and support the advancement of its knowledge, understanding and awareness; the support and promotion of sailing in Bermuda; to promote Bermuda, its business community and interests, by using the race as a marketing platform; and to encourage and assist everyone engaged in these activities.