Residents and merchants in St. George's are calling the town's recent status as a World Heritage a "ray of hope''.

The Royal Gazette took to the streets of old St. George last week after the town joined other cultural sites around the world on the United Nations "creme de la creme'' list.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) will help St. George's preserve its archaeological heritage with recognition and possible monetary grants and technical assistance.

People were overwhelmingly positive to the UNESCO decision.

Allison Outerbridge said: "Are you kidding, I almost didn't get any sleep last night.

"I think it will put the spotlight on us and garner more appreciation from the rest of the Island.'' she added.

Chris West, manager of the White Horse Tavern on St. George's Square and St.

George's Chamber of Commerce Chairman said the news was well received by the Chamber.

"I'm really happy. The news was very well accepted,'' he said.

He said the UNESCO recognition gives motivation for more businesses to provide a better quality of service and products.

"What I would like to see is this event opening the door for better products to be sold. Things that will go with the Heritage theme.

"It should bring a sort of new pride to St. George's and I hope everyone else sees it that way.

"One of the things I would hope to see is it bringing more people here in the winter months.'' he said.

Jill Amos Raine of Bermuda Memories Galleries said: "I'm ecstatic. I think it the best thing. We needed a ray of hope.

"We are all very proud of our town and it's uniqueness. I think the town definitely deserves it. I couldn't be anywhere else in the world.'' Jill's husband, David, said the recognition will help people understand the character of St. George's.

"I think the most important thing is it provides the town with recognition.'' he said.

Paradise store front owner Terry Roberts said: "I'm really, really elated.

It's like a dream come true.'' As a former alderman for the town, Mr. Roberts worked on the original concept two years ago. He said specific locations warrant an award unto themselves.

"Just look at St. Peter's Church. So many people worked so hard -- everyone sort of pulled together.'' He hoped the designation would encourage high-end investors to be more enthusiastic in buying the nearby hotel properties, marketing St. George's as a tourism and commerce attraction.

"Everybody in Bermuda would benefit from it.''