Elbow Beach general manager Ingo Schweder has mysteriously resigned after 15 months.

The Royal Gazette understands that the 36-year-old German hotelier was summoned last week to the New York offices of Rafael Hotels which runs Elbow Beach.

He resigned shortly after his return.

And in a memo sent out to the hotel's staff yesterday, Mr. Schweder wrote: "I have to advise you that I will resign my responsibilities as general manager of Elbow Beach effective February 17, with my last working day being March 17, 1997.

"We have accomplished a lot over the past 15 months. Your dedication and hard work have placed the resort in a position of again being known for friendly service, clean accommodation and good food.

"Please continue this path as I will be taking on a new assignment overseas.

I sincerely appreciate your fine efforts and know that Elbow Beach is well on its way to regaining its former glory and status as the best resort in Bermuda.'' Mr. Schweder was reportedly locked in meetings yesterday and could not be reached for comment.

The hotel owner's representatives and director of finance, William Guthrie, told The Royal Gazette that Mr. Schweder had resigned for personal reasons.

He said he did not expect Mr. Schweder's resignation to disrupt hotel operations.

And he said a long-time Rafael employee, Rob Nak of Monaco, had taken over as the internal consultant until a permanent replacement for Mr. Schweder could be found.

Mr. Schweder and Mr. Nak were spending as much time together as possible to ensure a smooth transition, he added.

It is also understood that Rafael's official comptroller, Max Dickins, is also expected to arrive in Bermuda today.

Ingo Schweder