Senator Walwyn Hughes is to retire as an Independent Senator.The news was announced today by Governor Sir Richard Gozney.James Jardine, a chartered accountant who recently retired as CEO and partner of Appleby, is to take Dr Hughes’ place as Senate Vice President.Mr Jardine is a former common councillor and Corporation of Hamilton Alderman.Said Sir Richard in a press release issued this afternoon: “Senator, and Senate Vice President, Dr Walwyn Hughes, is retiring after many years of devoted and selfless service to the Bermuda Parliament. No-one could have shown a stronger commitment.“Acting in accordance with Section 27 of the Bermuda Constitution, I have made the following appointment to the Senate: Mr James S Jardine. I am confident that Senator-designate Jardine will bring a similar focus and commitment to the Senate’s work.”Kim Swan, who was elected as a UBP MP, said this afternoon: “It is an honour for me to say thank you to retiring Senate Vice-President Dr Walwyn Hughes, for distinguished 14 year tenure as an Independent Senator in the Bermuda legislature.“It was indeed a privilege to have served with Dr. Hughes in the Senate for nine years of his 15-year tenure.“Dr Hughes is an unpretentious scholar who could evaluate a situation objectively from all perspectives. He knew how to get the best out of a situation and appreciate the value of everyone's point of view. His presentations were well researched, thoughtful and balanced. Fairness was his hallmark.“Dr Hughes' Senate tenure followed a long and distinguished career as a civil servant where he served as Director of Agriculture and Fisheries and ended his career by rising to post of Financial Secretary.“I consider it a blessing to have been both the General Manager of a Government quango under his financial direction and also to work closely with him as the Opposition Senate Leader for the United Bermuda Party.“Dr Walwyn Hughes was a Legislator's Legislator and I wish him well in his retirement and thank for a great contribution to our Country.”