battled a blaze which ripped through his luxury Marshall's Island home.

And he praised the neighbour who raised the alarm.

Firefighters had to board boats when the blaze broke out in the early morning at the house but their prompt action helped save priceless artifacts.

Two bedrooms were gutted but a library and drawing room, which had chairs from the Queen's coronation and precious first editions, was saved.

Mr. Green, who returned to assess the damage before leaving the Island yesterday, said: "The Bermuda Fire Service were magnificent in dealing with the recent fire on Marshall's Island.

"With the help of the Marine Police, who deserve full credit in getting them over to the island, they acted promptly, efficiently and with great professionalism.

"Although there was considerable damage it was only due to their rapid action that the whole house was not destroyed.

"Credit should also be given to William Freeman who was on his boat in Paradise Lake, spotted the flames and immediately contacted the Fire Service and alerted the staff on the island.

"So a big thank you to the Fire Service, Marine Police and Willie Freeman -- Bermuda should be proud of you and be confident that its safety and property are in safe hands.''