Architects has proved beneficial for the whole Island.

More accustomed to battles over planning matters the Trust and the architects have worked together on a scheme which has given a particular boost to young architects.

And the results of the scheme were on show when detailed plans of National Trust properties in St. George's were handed over to the Government and the Trust.

Co-ordinator Mr. Colin Campbell, explained why the project came about. He said: "This summer more than 20 Bermudian students studying architecture returned home seeking summer employment.

"Due to the current recession they had great difficulty obtaining jobs that provide practical experience and utilise their creativity and skills.'' The IBA encouraged seven architectural firms to get involved by offering guidance and facilities for the students to draw up plans of the National Trust buildings.

Each firm provided mentors to supervise the 12 students eventually using the project. Sponsors provided wages of around $6,000 per student.

Students photographed, accurately measured and produced archive quality drawings of each property assigned by the National Trust.

The drawings were presented to the Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan at a ceremony at Waterville over the weekend.

President of the IBA Mr. Neil Sloan hopes the students who produced the drawings will be able to use their experience to benefit their work in the future.

Receiving drawings on behalf of the National Trust, Vice President Mr. Hugh Davidson said: "Hopefully working on their project will create a meaningful resource and provide a venue which will create a more favourable relationship between the Trust and the architects.'' The students involved in the scheme were Warren Fray, Michelle Collier, Jeremy Johnson, Eric Peets, Robert Daniels, Kenneth O'Connor, John Berg, Eric Schatz, Greg Nelmes, Toriano Davies, Davin Lightbourne and Jeane Holland.

BUILDING HISTORY -- Project co-ordinator Mr. Colin Campbell (left) shows the Premier drawings by architectural students of National Trust properties.