The Governor of Bermuda’s next post will be in the British Virgin Islands, it was announced. John Rankin will succeed Augustus Jaspert in the Overseas Territory at the start of 2021. The BVI Government’s website said: “This will allow time for him to settle ahead of the key priorities that the territory expects to face in 2021.”Mr Rankin added: “I am very pleased to have been appointed as Governor of the Virgin Islands and I look forward to working in partnership with the Government in the new year. “2020 has not been without its challenges. But the people of the Virgin Islands have shown great strength and spirit in meeting those challenges and I promise to do all I can to support the building of further resilience against the risk of natural disasters. “I look forward to contributing to life on the islands and to carrying out my responsibilities under the Constitution in the areas of external affairs, security and good governance in service to the people of the Virgin Islands.”Mr Jaspert’s appointment was extended earlier this year to provide continuity through the BVI’s initial Covid-19 response, as well as what was expected to be an above average hurricane season. He will have served almost 3½ years when he leaves at the end of this year.Mr Jaspert said: “I know the new governor and the UK will continue to stand by the people of BVI and work earnestly to achieve the very best for the territory.”The appointment of Rena Lalgie as Bermuda’s next governor was announced in June.She is to replace Mr Rankin, who took up his post towards the end of 2016, in December.Mr Rankin told The Royal Gazette yesterday: “I am looking forward to taking up my responsibilities in the British Virgin Islands. “But I am not yet saying my farewells to Bermuda and will continue to serve the people of this island in accordance with my responsibilities under the Constitution until my departure later this year.”