served on the Court of Appeal from 1980 to 1984.

On behalf of the Bermuda Bar Association, Mr. John Cooper said Sir James would be remembered for his courtesy and attentiveness.

The 80-year-old led a long and distinguished legal career, serving in the Nigerian and Bahamian high courts before coming to Bermuda, he said.

Chief Justice Sir. James Astwood, who has announced plans to retire, noted a number of judges who had served in Bermuda during the 1970's and 80's had recently died.

"It's a sad occasion and makes one seriously think about our own time here,'' he said.

Sir James said he met the justice in 1974 when he served on the Court of Appeal and had found him to be "humorous and very likable''.

Mr. Barrie Meade, speaking on behalf of the Attorney General's Chambers, said it had always been a pleasure to appear before Sir James.

He commended him for his thorough knowledge of Bermuda's Constitution, which celebrates its 25th birthday this month.