Gladys Morrell and Sir Edward Trenton “ET” Richards were formally named National Heroes during a weekend ceremony in St George’s.

Mrs Morrell played a vital role in the Island’s suffrage movement and was a strong campaigner for women’s voting rights, while Sir Edward was the Island’s first black Premier, tackling segregation and racial discrimination.

Patricia Gordon-Pamplin, the Minister of Community, Culture and Sport, hailed both individuals.

“Our two National Heroes have both made politically and socially significant and profound contributions to our country,” she said. “In their own special and unique ways they have embodied characteristics that define what it means to be a Bermudian National Hero.”

Noting the past honouring of her father, the late Dr Edgar Fitzgerald Gordon, she told the families of the new National Heroes: “Our country owes the matriarch and patriarch of your respective families our deepest gratitude for their fearless and tireless efforts to create a more just and equitable society, whose political infrastructure remains today.

“Their fortitude and courage are testaments of their courage and their love of Bermuda and her people. I can recall sitting where you are right now and feeling the tremendous pride and overwhelming joy as my own father was chosen to be forever one of our National Heroes. This ceremony has been organised to honour and respect the legacy of your parents.”

The event featured performances by Troika about the lives of the inductees and music from Olivia Hamilton, John Seymour and the Bermuda Regiment Fanfare Trumpeters. Premier Michael Dunkley made the induction and proclamation, noting their contributions.

The National Heroes weekend included a range of celebrations Island-wide, including the Parade of Bands, j’ouvert, and a party on Front Street.

• To see photographs from the holiday weekend, including the Parade of Bands and j’ouvert celebration, visit the Photo Gallery at the bottom of our website.