beaming faces you see on the general banking floor is Alva Dill.

Ms Dill has been smiling for tourists and locals in her role as senior receptionist for 28 years.

"As a young adult I knew I wanted to work for Bank of Bermuda. I wanted a front row job dealing with customers.

"I probably see about 50 different people, plus the regular customers, everyday at my reception desk,'' she said.

Banking clients, new to the Island, usually see Ms Dill before they are directed to other staff.

"I am the first contact when people come in and make the first impression on their minds. Frequently I go out of my way to help tourists by giving them information about one thing or another,'' she said.

Ms Dill is usually asked four questions by visitors: Where can I find the best Bermuda food? Where is the best shopping? How long is the weather going to be like this? Where do I go to see the bank's coin collection? Ms Dill suggested: "Friendliness is one of the major components of tourism which all residents can provide to tourists.

"Every citizen, including children, has the opportunity to be polite in small ways. When the buses are crowded it is impressive when the children offer or give their seats to older visitors. These random acts of kindness go a long way.'' Alva Dill