St. George's South in the next general election.

In announcing Mr. Arthur Frederick Pitcher as a candidate yesterday, Party leader Mr. Frederick Wade described him as a "born and raised'' Islander.

"We're pleased to offer up one of their own people to represent them in the next general election,'' he said.

Mr. Pitcher, a self-employed building contractor, said he would work to extend his identity throughout the whole constituency.

Mr. Wade added later that the Party would consider adding a second candidate more familiar with areas outside Mr. Pitcher's homeground: Tucker's Town, Ferry Reach and Wellington.

The United Bermuda Party Primary vote on October 27 would be a factor in any second candidate decision, Mr. Wade said.

"The chemistry of that will be important for us to consider,'' he said. Mr.

Pitcher, 41, said he always harboured a desire to serve the community, even as long ago as high school when he penned an essay on representing his district.

He said until now his lack of political involvement was due to lack of support from Jehovah's Witnesses, of which his wife is a member.

He said sect beliefs hindered his involvement in current affairs.

"But now I feel I must work to protect my children and Bermuda's children,'' he said. "I believe we're selling ourselves short.'' Mr. Pitcher's political pedigree was instilled as a child.

"The PLP is my choice,'' he said. "It was bred into me by my parents. I see the party as the right party to bring justice and a better way of life to all Bermuda and not only a few.

"That is my goal as a St. David's Islander.'' On specific local issues, Mr. Pitcher said he would work to extend St. David's bus service beyond 7 p.m. even if it was a money-losing operation.

NEW CANDIDATE -- Mr. Arthur Pitcher during his candidate's announcement yesterday with PLP Leader Mr. Frederick Wade and St. George's North MP Miss Jennifer Smith.