BERMUDA has been given a glowing review as a top resort in a UK television show.

Last week the BBC's programme revealed that the island is shaking off its upmarket, stuffy image and is now becoming "a more exciting, dynamic, even sexy destination for potential visitors".

Reporter Jeremy Sheffield told a television audience of millions that, after decades of neglect and complacency, Bermuda was finally getting its tourism act together.

Bermuda icon Johnny Barnes was given plenty of air time as was Government Minister Dale Butler, who helped Mr. Sheffield sample some of the island's culinary delights.

"Nicknamed 'The Isles of Devils', Bermuda's treacherous reputation was cemented by the British who gave safe harbour to pirates here, as long as they only attacked Spanish ships returning from the Caribbean," Mr. Sheffield said.

"Today, Bermudians are much more friendly. From five until ten every morning, come rain or shine, retired bus driver Johnny Barnes stands on the Crow Lane roundabout waving good morning to all who pass by.

"It's a mark of the Bermudian character that, rather than smirk or laugh at Johnny's eccentric behaviour, they've commissioned a statue in his honour."

The reporter also donned Bermuda shorts ? which he said "enhanced" the island's "slight whiff of eccentricity" ? was chauffeured around the island in a horse and cart and went wreck diving with Teddy Tucker.

"Taking advantage of the renewed interest in the island, British Airways now provides daily flights to Bermuda, where the warm winds from the Gulf Stream create a perfect climate for holidaymakers and plant life," Mr. Sheffield told his UK audience.

"The island is enjoying life more and it's not as formal as it was. As the islanders have fun and relax the rules, Bermuda is becoming a more exciting, dynamic, even sexy destination for potential visitors."

Mr. Sheffield concluded that Bermuda is a magnificent island which, although once out of fashion, is set to make a big comeback.