personally think he was a very fine Commissioner. And all those who were concerned with his recruitment knew that they were recruiting a first class officer. He has served Bermuda extremely well.'' Sergeant Michael Jackman , chairman of the Bermuda Police Association which represents the interests of serving officers below the rank of Chief Inspector, commented: "He had an exceptionally good working relationship with the Association which allowed us to get things done for our members. We were grateful for his efforts on our behalf and gave him a gift and sent him a letter expressing our deep appreciation.'' A senior Police officer who has served under five Commissioners, speaking anonymously, said: "Colin Coxall was by far the best Commissioner we have ever had. "When he arrived here, the Service had been deteriorating for some time. What has happened is more of a tragedy for Bermuda than it is for him.

"I think most of my fellow officers are devastated by what's happened.'' Commander John Moore , head of the Reserve Police, commented: "Mr. Coxall is the greatest thing that ever happened to the Bermuda Police. He met with us the same week he arrived, saw the deplorable state of our headquarters, realised morale was low and said he was determined to turn it around.

"That's exactly what he did -- and it all began to happen within three weeks of his arrival, authorising renovations to our headquarters, changing our name and uniform, which he felt was essential to place us on a par with the regular Service.

"He wasn't happy with the training we were getting and he set up a very effective training scheme.

"As a result, we now have 135 very dedicated people. He was the driving force behind all of this.''