The Bermuda Hospitals Board apparently blinked in the showdown with American vascular surgeon James Brockenbrough yesterday and declined to hold a hearing on his failure of a drug test.

The lack of action means Dr. Brockenbrough has left KEMH and the medical profession in Bermuda in good standing.

Speaking from California last night, Dr. Brockenbrough said, simply: ?Victory! The Hospital has dropped the accusations. I harbour no ill feelings about Bermuda or its people. I generally enjoyed my stay on your fair Island. There are some individuals that are no good. I lost a job in California due to their shenanigans.?

Jonathan Brewin, BHB chairman, said last night: ?The Bermuda Hospitals Board regrets that Dr. Brockenbrough has decided to publicise the specific circumstances surrounding his case.