the food concession at Tobacco Bay, St. George's.

In a surprise move, the Corporation of St. George's has dropped the businessman and politician as concessionaire in favour of Kirk Bartrum, a taxi driver and co-owner with his wife Sharon of the 27th Century Boutique and the Hair Studio.

In a two-sentence press release, the Corporation announced the switch and added Mr. Bartrum's concession begins operations on May 1.

When contacted yesterday, Mr. Bascome refused to comment.

Mr. Bascome, 50, has developed the site virtually from nothing into a place where visitors to the popular East End beach can get food, snorkelling gear, beverages, underwater cameras, umbrellas and towels.

In recent years competition for the concession has increased and the lease has been increased from one to three years to increase incentive for the operator.

This would also help the operator recoup their investment.

During the last tendering process in 1995, Mr. Bascome expressed mixed feelings about having to re-apply, saying: "My wife and I are pleased in one aspect, and a little frustrated in another aspect.'' Mr. Bascome ran unsuccessfully in the November General Election as an independent candidate after splitting with the Progressive Labour Party when he was overlooked to be party leader Jennifer Smith's running mate.

And just four days before the Election he claimed PLP supporters had started to boycott his businesses.

The successful candidate, Delaey Robinson, claimed he had heard of the campaign, but denied encouraging it. He even promised to send business in Mr.

Bascome's direction.

In addition to Tobacco Bay, Mr. Bascome owns and operates Kippie's Place and The Cookery, a restaurant and bar combination on Water Street.

He is also the co-owner of Sports-a-Wear sports store on Bridge Street and has sponsored youth soccer programmes at the St. George's and St. David's Cricket Clubs.

Mr. Bartrum could not be contacted last night.

ST. GEORGE'S PAR