Tourism Minister the Hon. C.V.(Jim) Woolridge, who believes its new image will do much to enhance Bermuda's reputation as a quality destination.

"From a tourism and economic point of view it's probably the greatest infusion of energy the Island has had in a long time,'' he said.

"The last hotel to be built in Bermuda was the Southampton Princess Hotel, and the renovation and rebuilding of the Elbow Beach is one of the greatest boosts in our economy and tourism life that we've had in a long time. Bermuda must have first-class quality accommodations if we are going to survive in today's market.'' Mr. Woolridge, who described the Elbow Beach Hotel as "one of the finest properties to be found anywhere,'' said the redevelopment, in particular of the entrance and lobby, had given a "palatial'' feeling to the hotel, and praised the attractive redecoration of the guest rooms.

While the Tourism Department worked hard to encourage local properties to upgrade their facilities regularly, he pointed out that the Elbow Beach's new owners had gone well beyond simply carrying out regular maintenance and improvements.

"I would like to congratulate the new owners, and particularly Mr. John Freitag, the chairman of the company, together with Mr. John Murphy and Mr.

John Jefferis for the success of the project. I must also highly commend the wonderful staff of Elbow and all the construction people who worked on the project and brought it to completion,'' he said.

"I think those guests who have been coming to Elbow in the past will be very pleased with what they find there today.''