ST. George's Mayor Henry Hayward has defended a controversial decision to allow a jet-ski business to operate in the heart of the Old Town.

Answering mounting criticism that it is "inappropriate'' to run the popular, but noise-generating sport out of the centre of the recently designated World Heritage Site, Mr. Hayward disagreed. "We Turn to Page 3, Col. 3 Mayor defends jet-ski business Continued from page 1 have to remember we are also a living town, operating in the 21st century, and sources of revenue and entertainment are all part of a living town.

"We are not,'' he retorted, "a museum!'' Even so, the Mayor conceded, regulations and speed restrictions will be very strictly enforced: "Jet-skiers must not go over the five miles per hour limit until they are completely clear of the harbour.'' Mr. Hayward told the Mid-Ocean News that the Corporation was certainly mindful of noise pollution and safety issues and had, in fact, turned down applications for similar set-ups in areas owned by the Corporation: "It's my understanding that this is the second operation in the area, as there is another jet-ski business operating off the old Club Med.'' It is understood that the new jet-ski business will be run out of a popular St. George's watering hole, Kippie's Place. Attempts to reach owner and St.

George's councillor Kenny Bascome were unsuccessful.