The Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo (BAMZ) has a new Principal Curator.

Brian Lightbourne, currently a Curator for the Aquarium and Zoo, succeeds Jack Ward, who was named the director of Conservation Services after the Environment Ministry was reorganised.

Environment Minister Dennis Lister celebrated the announcement of Mr. Lightbourne's new position at a special function on Wednesday evening.

Having started his BAMZ career in 1990 as an aquarist in the Invertebrate House, Mr. Lightbourne's skills were quickly recognised, according to a Government statement. By 1994 he was promoted to plant manager prior to this latest posting.

"Brian Lightborne's promotion provides an orderly succession," said Mr. Ward, adding that his successor "will provide security for the continued improvement of the BAMZ and its programmes".