rival long distance customers stay connected with the outside world.

It is understood that TeleBermuda International suffered an on-Island problem with its communications network which prevented some of its customers from calling overseas.

The two companies have been at war since TBI entered the long distance calling arena, shattering C&W's long-standing monopoly.

But C&W engineers restored international service to TBI customers by 5.15 p.m., reported company spokesman John Instone last night.

"Cable & Wireless this afternoon moved quickly to restore international telephone service to customers of rival carrier TeleBermuda International after TBI suffered a major technical malfunction.'' Yesterday afternoon C&W general manager Colin Little said: "We will be doing everything possible to restore services to TBI customers as soon as possible.

"This opportunity for us to assist reinforces Cable & Wireless' commitment and capability to keeping Bermuda in touch with the world.'' TBI vice-president product and business development Claude Bourque could not be reached for comment last night.