the Opposition Progressive Labour Party in Hamilton West.

The Royal Gazette understands Mrs. Mapp is considering standing for the PLP in a seat which is expected to be one of the keys to Government at the next General Election.

That means she could team up with ex-Department of Tourism Civil Servant Randolph Horton against the United Bermuda Party's Minister of Transport Wayne Furbert and backbencher Maxwell Burgess.

Mrs. Mapp, 33, who lives in Hamilton Parish, became one of the Island's youngest Magistrates on record in 1991. But she quit Magistrates' Court at the end of February to move into the corporate sector of the legal profession.

Mr. Horton late last year admitted he was interested in a crack at one of the Hamilton West seats -- but said no decision had been made by the branch.

The seat was contested for the PLP at the 1993 General Election by ex-Bermuda Public Service Association chief Eugene Blakeney and lawyer Julian Hall.

But the sitting PLP duo were ousted by the UBP team -- and neither Mr. Hall or Mr. Blakeney are thought to be interested in a re-match this time around.

Bermuda Industrial Union leader Derrick Burgess recently joined PLP MP Renee Webb on the Opposition benches after romping home in nearby Hamilton East.

That by-election was caused by Rev. Trevor Woolridge's decision to quit politics.

Hamilton Parish PLP insiders confirmed last night that Mrs. Mapp's name had come up as a possible candidate.

Mapp tagged for the PLP? The insider said: "Mrs. Mapp has been mentioned -- but the branch has yet to hear anything from her. He added: "We have had several good candidates express an interest.

"We haven't made any promises because there isn't likely to be an election in a hurry.'' Neither Mrs. Mapp or Mr. Horton could be contacted for comment last night.

But Mr. Furbert said neither he or running mate Mr. Burgess would be taking anything for granted.

He added: "I'm going to be working as hard as I've always worked over the last five years.

The people of Hamilton Parish know that when they ask us for something we do everything we can.

"We've completed all the projects we promised and more. Max and I are two home-grown boys who know the field out there.

"But we won't be taking anything for granted and we will continue to work very hard -- no matter who the PLP put out there.'' Cheryl-Ann Mapp