Bermudians who have gone the "extra mile'' to make visitors feel at home have been rewarded for their efforts.

The Preview Magazine awards, presented this week, focused on individuals or businesses that have received high praise and compliments from visitors.

Editor Mrs. Roxy Kaufmann said: "We wanted to single out people or places who had gone the extra mile, particularly in a time that is so competitive.

"There has been so much negative talk about tourism. We wanted to concentrate on what's right about it.'' Eleven people won Extra Mile Awards, among them Mr. Reggie Cooper for being a gracious host at the recently-closed Glencoe Harbour Club.

Good morning ambassador Mr. Johnny Barnes also won an award for his smiling face and warm greetings at the Crow Lane roundabout every weekday morning.

"I am very thankful for the award,'' Mr. Barnes said. "I thank God for it. I am just an instrument in his hands to be used anyway that he sees fit.

"I enjoy making people happy. If each individual made someone happy, what a beautiful world it would be.'' Well-known photographer Mr. Mark Emmerson received an award after finding a honeymooner's wedding ring using his metal detector.

"The awards are very nice. I think it's a great idea,'' said Mr. Emmerson.

"There is so much negative news. It's nice to have something positive and good.'' Another recipient was Director of the Bermuda National Gallery, Mrs. Laura Gorham. "She has been the major force in creating the identity of Bermuda's National Gallery which has become a major attraction for visitors and residents,'' Mrs. Kaufmann said.

Mrs. Gorham said she was surprised but honoured to receive the award. "There is a lot of good in tourism in Bermuda. It's nice to get positive feedback.'' Employee at the Shell Service Station on East Broadway Mr. Burlington Furbert said he was "very touched'' to receive his award.

Mr. Furbert won for his "cheerful attitude in performing his daily duties''.

Other award winners were Mrs. Janet Grayston of the Visitors Service Bureau for her friendly attitude when offering assistance to tourists, the Monte Carlo Restaurant for its wide selection of food and friendly atmosphere and Miss Alison Harris who manages the Scottish Wool Shop. Miss Harris was commended for "the extra steps she takes in assisting tourists with their purchases''.

Tour boat operator Captain Hal White was also given an Extra Mile award for "making tourists feel like he is taking them on their own private adventure''.

MR Onions restaurant received an award for its friendly atmosphere and family-orientated menus.

And the New Queen restaurant was presented with an award for its excellent Chinese cuisine and atmosphere.

Preview Magazine was established 35 years ago by Mrs. Ann Brown and Mrs.

Kaufmann.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE -- Preview Magazine this week singled out people who have gone the "extra mile'' to welcome visitors to Bermuda. Pictured with editor of the magazine Mrs. Roxy Kaufmann (sitting front) are winners of the Extra Mile awards.