The old guard of the United Bermuda Party is to be moblilised in a bid to win the General Election battle.

For Ex-MPs have been recalled to the colours to back up the current crop of Parliamentarians as the UBP prepare to launch it's General Election assault on the Opposition.

It is understood that UBP veterans like ex-Premier Sir John Sharpe attended a meeting at the party's Chancery Lane HQ last week to help form party strategy for the upcoming General Election.

UBP insiders confirmed yesterday that the counsel and backing of the party's elder statesmen had been sought, with a total of three meetings having been held.

One insider said: "There are a lot of wise heads out there which are a valuable resource for the party -- it makes sense to use that to assist in the campaign.'' It is believed between 15 and 30 ex-Parliamentarians have attended the think-tank sessions at the UBP HQ.

UBP campaign committee chairman Mike Winfield confirmed several meetings with the old guard had been called since he took over as campaign mastermind.

He said: "It's about keeping in touch, receiving advice from them and ensuring they're part of the team.

"They're all still part of the extended family and it's important they're involved.

"When you get them together, collectively it's a tremendous bank of wisdom.

They're all still in touch with various parts of the community.'' Among those thought to have attended meetings are ex-Ministers Gerald Simons and Ralph Marshall.

Ex-Premier Sir John Swan -- who quit politics last year -- confirmed yesterday he had been invited to last week's meeting, but was unable to attend because he was off the Island.

And he did not rule out helping the party out "if I had the time available.'' The move steps up the pre-General Election date announcement campaign and signals the final stages of the UBP's strategy for the election -- likely to be even more tightly-fought than 1993.

UBP insiders believe former Parliamentarians can offer solid advice based on their years of experience, as well as helping in the campaign behind the scenes.

Mr. Winfield said: "I know some of them are already actively involved -- some of them not so active, but providing advice and moral support.

"I don't think there has been anyone noticeable by their absence -- those who haven't been there have been away or committed elsewhere.''