Bermuda Reserve Police have a new boss after Commandant Huw Lewis stepped down after 31 years of service.

And Deputy Commandant Jerry Robinson, who has served for over 20 years is the new Commandant.

A change of command ceremony happened on Saturday at Police Headquarters in Prospect and was attended by the Governor Sir Richard Gozney, Minister of Public Safety David Burch, Acting Premier Paula Cox, Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva, Opposition Leader Kim Swan and Bermuda Democratic Alliance Leader Craig Cannonier.

Those in attendance were treated to a parade made up of the Bermuda Regiment Band, Bermuda Pipe Band and Reserve officers.

In passing the sword to Mr. Robinson, Mr. Lewis said: "It is with mixed emotion that I stand before you today. Shortly, I will hand over my sword of command to the Commissioner of Police and with it will go the burden of command. What will remain is three decades of memories of faces and friendships formed. These I will always keep and treasure."

He continued: "To the men and women of the Bermuda Police Service thank you. Thank you seems such a poor reward for what you have done and achieved.

"It's Heroes' Day on Monday but in my eyes, you are my heroes. You finish your day's work and lock up offices, shops, prisoners, close the classroom door, park the truck, shut up the work shop and then after a hard and full day's work, put on the uniform of the Bermuda Reserve Police and face all the trials and tribulations of a Police officer in what can only be considered very dangerous times.

"I salute your dedication and I applaud your commitment to Bermuda."

Mr. Lewis added: "I would like to wish my friend and colleague Jerry Robinson my very best wishes on taking over from me. You have been an outstanding Deputy Commandant and this parade is proof of your organisational ability. You very much deserve to take command of this fine unit."

Sir Richard said: "I was very keen to be here for this. A lot of people might say that 31 years was pretty much a full-time career and would amount to a day job. But of course he's done this as a volunteer. I think for someone to do it that long, he's worth very, very special praise.

"My understanding is that the new commandant is not a newcomer and has been doing it for many years and has been deputy for as long. The reserves are now being passed into very safe hands indeed."

Senator Burch also spoke at the ceremony and said: "Commandant Lewis, I come today to personally thank you for your amazing 31 years of service to the Bermuda Reserve Police. Your commitment to this Country in the reserves is greatly appreciated. I wish you a long and peaceful retirement.

"To the new commandant, I must say he must like licks. I believe I was his petty officer more than 25 years ago. I cut his tail then and I'm likely to cut his tail again.

"We have chatted often since I took this responsibility and I personally know your unwavering commitment. You are more than ably equipped to lead the reserves into this second decade."

The ceremony was followed by a reception in the Police recreation club.