Premier Ewart Brown last night congratulated the Saltus graduating class of 2008 and told them: "Your country needs you."

Dr. Brown was guest speaker at their graduation ceremony at a packed Cathedral, where he also handed out a cluster of special awards to top achievers.

The only dampener on an evening of celebrations and cheers was that the finger splinter victim's clapping abilities were restricted by the fact his left arm remained in a sling.

Calling for graduates to make the most of their talents by putting something back into Bermuda, the Premier said in his speech: "Your country is looking for a few good minds to help shape its future.

"Bermuda's future is as bright as yours, but only if you agree to participate in conquering our challenges."

Dr. Brown, whose godson Ade Brown was among the graduates, said he knew many would be enticed by rich companies, but added: "I'm here to compete for your brainpower as vigorously as those other guys because the country of your birth needs you."

Chairman of the board William Cox paid tribute to headmaster Nigel Kermode for his "many years of excellence leading Saltus" and urged graduates to keep in touch with their school.

Progressive Labour Party MP Wayne Perinchief, PLP Senator Thaao Dill and the Opposition's Patricia Gordon-Pamplin were among the guests.