Governor Thorold Masefield praised the civil service, charitable organisations and the Island's artists in his farewell speech outside the cabinet building yesterday.

In an unwritten speech Mr. Masefield made it clear that he was impressed with practically every facet of life in Bermuda. He also paid tribute to Bermuda's efficiency, saying: "I don't think you realise just how well ordered and efficient you are."

Mr. Masefield flew off the Island last evening to begin his retirement after five decades as a diplomat, capped by service as Bermuda's Governor for four and a half years.

"His Excellency the Governor, and his gracious wife Jennifer, have endeared themselves to the entire Bermudian community with their keen interest in things Bermudian from snorkeling and cricket to art and gardening," said Premier Jennifer Smith.

"Their sincerity and ability to communicate with people from all walks of life has been evident from the tips of their African head-dress to the soles of their feet, which have walked as comfortably on Court Street as on Front Street.

"Clearly, it was attributes such as these which helped the Governor to sail serenely through both confrontation and change.

"Your Excellency, your tenure here in Bermuda has coincided with a period of great change for our island. You oversaw a smooth transfer of political power in the first change of Government ever in Bermuda.

"For that alone, the people of Bermuda will carry fond memories of you in their hearts," Ms Smith explained, adding:"You also oversaw the creation of a number of firsts including the first time that a Cabinet was sworn in at The Cottage in Dockyard and the first time that a public meeting was held at Government House.

"And, significantly, you were here as we ushered in a new millennium with all of its promise and all of its challenges."

The Premier also noted Mr. Masefield's support of charitable causes and his involvement in Bermuda's sporting and cultural traditions.

And Ms Smith thanked the Masefields for donating a portion of their African art collection to the Island.

"You have shown great generosity in leaving behind a portion of your treasured African art collection as a permanent gift to the people of Bermuda."

She also thanked Mr. Masefield personally for his "wise counsel, for your friendship and for the enthusiasm and dedication to supporting the continued welfare of this island".

In his reply, Mr. Masefield said that he and his wife had taken part in the Island's cultural and sporting life and "hugely enjoyed ourselves".

Turning his attention to his duties as Governor he said that was proud of his connection to the Bermuda Regiment and the Police Service.

"Bermuda is blessed and has worked hard to acquire a highly competent civil service," he said.

He pointed out that the Island has no shortage of organisations and people willing to support charitable causes.

"In some countries people sit back and live it to the state and other organisations," he said "But in Bermuda there are innumerable people willing to give up their time and money."

And he described Bermuda's artistic community as a "great gathering of extremely well accomplished people" who can hold their own against their international counterparts.

Mr. Masefield ended his speech with a story from Northern Nigeria which he said illustrated his role as a diplomat.

The now former Governor was born in East Africa and spent 40 years in diplomatic service. His last posting before coming to Bermuda was as the British High Commissioner to Nigeria. He has also served in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Deputy Governor Tim Gurney will act as Governor until February when Mr. Masefield's successor, Sir John Vereker, arrives.