Roland Hill, the importer who pulled off the island’s first shipment of bananas seen since January, got to look at the fruits of his labours today.

Mr Hill, of J & J Produce, joined Walter Roban, the home affairs minister, with staff at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources headquarters as they checked batches of fresh bananas for stowaway pests.

Incoming bananas ground to a halt at the start of the year because of persistent infestations of mealybugs, which pose a threat to Bermuda’s environment.

But Mr Hill sourced a supply in Costa Rica that has so far proven clean — and has been gratefully received by local consumers.

Mr Roban said he understood the frustrations of importers when incoming produce ran afoul of safeguards, but said the risks were too great.

He added: “Mr Hill is proof that being persistent and following the relevant guidelines can produce a win-win for all involved.”