January 24, 2002

Dear Sir,

Although Mr Fernandes' dealings with the Immigration Department may have been flawed, I am compelled to support Tony and to state categorically that Bermuda has lost one of its leading voluntary ambassadors.

My husband came from Australia to work in Bermuda almost three years ago and after 40 years of employment I became a non-working member of society needing to establish a new network. Accustomed to bush walking regularly with a group who planned their own activity programme, I made Tony's acquaintance in his capacity as the organiser of the Rock Ramblers which supports local charities. Since then I have covered miles of Bermuda's tracks, railway trails, beaches, caves, and from Tony and his friends have learned about Bermuda's history, geography, geology, flora, fauna and sea life. He called us the Rock Rambler Family and like the head of a family, he was the glue which held us together.

As a result of Tony's involvement with the Bermuda International Film Festival I met people from the local and overseas film industry while voluntarily assisting in the promotion of Bermuda for this event. It has often been said that Bermuda runs on its volunteers, and Tony not only volunteered, he encouraged others to do so by example & enthusiasm. Through Tony's interest in writing, reading and north African cuisine I met Bermudians and folk from many other countries who shared similar interests, and he was a keen advocate of the local art scene. He worked hard to promote the island as a lively place to be enjoyed and appreciated by those with eclectic tastes regardless of age or ethnicity.

I chose Tony to "house sit" during a protracted absence from the island and our landlord's house was impeccably cared for and our possessions respected with the highest degree of integrity.

I hope that Tony will somehow read this letter as he needs to know that he'll be sadly missed by his many friends who have not had the opportunity to say "goodbye".

Travel well, good friend, "May the road rise to meet you....."

"LADY OF THE MANOR"

Warwick