gift from God'' was named the Island's top mom yesterday.

The title of "Mother of the Year'' was awarded to Mrs. Monica Iverna Gordon at the Continental Society's annual Mothers' Day luncheon at the Belmont Hotel.

Her daughter Deniece's letter, explaining why she thought her mother was "the best'', was selected from more than 250 entries received from primary school students.

The Prospect Primary student wrote: "My mother always puts me first. Although she is tired after a long day at work, she still finds time to help me with my homework. She insists that my books are neat and tidy.

"My mother reads to me every night. She tells me that I can travel the world through books.

"My mother takes good care of me. She sends me to school looking smart. She says if I look smart I will feel smart.'' Deniece also credited her mother with providing her with a sense of religion which would help her "grow up on the right path of life''.

Although she admitted her mother becomes stern with her on occasions, Deniece noted that she always "ends up saying `I still love you'.'' "She tells me I am special and that she wouldn't trade me for a million dollars. Don't you wish this lady was your `Mother of the Year' instead of mine?'' After accepting her award, Mrs. Gordon told those in attendance she was "so proud'' of Deniece, but that she "couldn't take all the credit''.

She thanked her daughter's teacher Mrs. Dorothy Trott, "spiritual guide'' Mrs. Madeline Richardson and her husband of 12 years, Dennis, who she said actually helped out "the most'' in the homework department.

Mrs. Gordon was born on the island of St. Vincent and moved to Bermuda nine years ago with her husband, who is a member of the Bermuda Police Force.

The Bank of Butterfield employee received over 20 gifts in honour of her award. Deniece received several gifts as well in recognition of her winning letter, including the President's Cup trophy from the Society and $200 in education funds, courtesy of Mr. Benjamin Rego Sr.

FIRST-CLASS MOM -- The Continental Society's "Mother of the Year'', Mrs.

Monica Iverna Gordon, receives a hug and a kiss from her daughter Deniece, 8, as husband Dennis and son Damien, 4, look on. She was selected following Deniece's essay on why she should be given the title.