goodwill, Johnny Barnes.

Hailing him as a "shining example of what we ourselves could be'', the Spirit of Bermuda Trust is seeking final Planning approval for a life-sized statue of Mr. Barnes at the northern roundabout at Crow Lane in Paget.

Yesterday, spokesman Jim Butterfield announced the plan at a Press conference at Trimingham Drive near the proposed site.

"We're not a statue-making country,'' Mr. Butterfield said. "We don't do politicians or soldiers. So Johnny Barnes is the perfect person to commemorate.'' "What better gift could we leave future generations,'' he continued, "than a lasting memorial to one of the best loved and well known figures of our time?'' The Spirit of Bermuda Trust has raised start-up funds and hopes Bermudians will rally to the cause.

Trust member Cristina Wineinger noted that the group will target schools and said: "We really hope the youngsters will get behind this. Our aim is to mark such a simple act that affects thousands every day.'' Sculptor Desmond Fountain has been fashioning the statue for nine months, after starting a similar project six years ago which fell through.

"There will be no surprise in the pose,'' Mr. Fountain said.

Mr. Barnes described the project as "a beautiful thing to do''.

"I thank God for it,'' he added.

ALL SMILES -- Morning rush-hour greeter Johnny Barnes, in hat, embraces sculptor Desmond Fountain, at left, and spokesman for the Spirit of Bermuda Trust, Jim Butterfield. The Trust has commissioned a statue in honour of Mr.

Barnes. Trust member Cristina Wineinger looks on.