The force has run the Island's Outward Bound scheme for teenagers for 25 years.

Outward Bound International Advisory Group chairman Mr. Bill Philips, said he would be contacting other Outward Bound leaders around the world asking them to take a leaf out of Bermuda's book.

Mr. Philips was speaking as Outward Bound Bermuda celebrated its Silver Anniversary at City Hall on Wednesday.

"The Police being involved to such an extent with Outward Bound is unique -- I think it's a wonderful programme,'' he said. "Like doctors, the Police should spend more time keeping people healthy rather than waiting until they get sick.

"It's a good way to reduce crime and keeps the Police in touch with young people. Unless you do that, you don't understand how differently young people are brought up now. The Police approach here is very commendable.'' Outward Bound was set up in in the UK in 1941 to encourage teenagers and young adults to test themselves in the outdoors and develop their leadership, team work and other personal qualities.

The Bermuda Police got involved when Outward Bound Bermuda was set up in 1970 and now has two officers, P.c. Mark Norman and P.c. Steve Palmer, seconded to the scheme full-time, plus four or five part-time instructors when courses are running.

P.c. Norman said: "It's very worthwhile -- the kids gain a lot from it confidence-wise and good for them to mix with Policemen and see them in a totally different light.''