'Real warmth' for stranded students

Dear Sir

I have just returned to the UK with a party of 22 boys after an 'extended stay' in Bermuda as a result of the recent disruption to air traffic in Europe. At a time when there was blatant profiteering in many parts of the world with people cashing in on the hardship of others, it was wonderful to see the generosity of Bermudian people.

We were staying at a government facility, Messina House in Sandys, but had to leave there as a party of American students was due to arrive the day after our 'original' date of departure, April 19th. Norbert Simons, Director of the Department of Youth and Sport, stepped in to ensure that we had another base and we were relocated to Port's Island. Mr Simons and his staff came to ensure our safe transfer and then informed me that the Bermuda government would not be looking for another penny for our stay as our 'extended vacation' was as a result of 'an act of God' and beyond our control. From that point on 'JR', the Port's Island caretaker/supervisor took us on numerous boat trips at various times of the day and night – nothing was too much trouble.

We had been on a sports tour playing football, rugby and cricket against some local schools but were now missing regular school time. Maggie McCorkell, Principal of Warwick Academy, provided us with a classroom and facilities so that we could continue with the boys' education and numerous staff at Warwick Academy helped out in a host of ways.

Jon Brunson, from Orbis, arranged for Sergeant At Arms Albert Fox to give us a fascinating talk about the history of the Bermuda House of Assembly and the boys learned a lot about your political system at an important time with our own UK election coming up!

Numerous Bermudian families invited our boys for barbecues and extended true hospitality and friendship. For 22 impressionable young boys from the UK, they learned a lot about care and concern for your fellow man. They left your shores with an enthusiasm for getting home to their families but a real warmth for Bermuda and your people.

Many thanks!

JOHN COAKLEY

Principal, Yardley Court School

Tonbridge, UK