Bermuda's new Deputy Governor was sworn in yesterday afternoon in a simple ceremony before Chief Justice Austin Ward.

Nick Carter officially took over the Deputy Governor's post from the outgoing Tim Gurney, who flies out of the Island tonight.

Grandfather Mr. Carter, who is married with five children, said he had been in Bermuda for just over a week and was looking forward to his new life here.

A keen sportsman, he is interested in playing cricket and sampling some snorkelling.

On more serious matters, during the next couple of weeks he will be out meeting with each of the different ministries as he becomes accustomed to the issues if the day. He said he was particularly interested in drug and Police matters and had a very high interest in the army, his father having come from a military background, and so looked forward to visiting the Bermuda Regiment.

But he said he also found money matters and budgets interesting, too.

At the swearing in ceremony at Government House, Governor Sir John Vereker said: “What a pleasure it is for me to have Nick Carter here as the Deputy Governor to Bermuda. I look forward to working with him and I am sure he will be an admirable successor to Tim Gurney.”

Mr. Carter said he had found the heat of the afternoon a little difficult during the last week, but planned to get used to it quickly so he could play sport.

He said: “I am looking forward to working with the Governor and all members of the Government and Civil Service, and to playing a full part in the life of Bermuda over the next few years.” Mr. Carter said he had travelled to Bermuda alone as his wife, Andrea, was still in England caring for her sick mother. He said he was expecting her to follow out later.