New US Consul General Larry Owen is set to arrive in Bermuda in three days' time, it was revealed yesterday.

And Mr. Owen and wife Faylene will move into the now-sold official residence of Chelston -- but only for a few weeks until alternative, rented accommodation can be found.

Mr. Owen said: "My wife and I are extremely excited and pleased to assume the post of Consul General in Bermuda.

"Not only is Bermuda one of the world's true jewels, but also the entrepreneurial spirit of its people and its long-standing friendship with the United States make this a prized assignment.

"I'm grateful that President Clinton selected me to represent the people of the United States to the people and Government of Bermuda.'' Acting Consul General Douglas Dobson said a temporary, rented home would be sought for the new Consul General.

And he said Mr. Owen, whose appointment will lapse when Mr. Clinton gives up the Oval Office in January, 2001, will probably spend his entire posting in a rented home.

But he stressed that the US was still committed to full representation in Bermuda and that a new house would be found and bought.

Mr. Owen's first priority is to present his credentials to Governor Thorold Masefield and Premier Jennifer Smith.

He succeeds Robert Farmer, who resigned from his post last month to raise funds for Democratic presidential hopeful and US Vice President Al Gore after nearly five years in the job.

Like Mr. Farmer, lawyer Mr. Owen, 54, was a major fundraiser for President Bill Clinton's first campaign.