he couldn't possibly have imagined he would one day own Island Wide Security Services.

Mr. Black, originally from Northern Ireland, came to Bermuda planning to stay for three years. But he was asked to stay on for a second term and later acquired Bermuda status.

The Island was going through a period of civil unrest marked by the 1965 Belco riots and the 1968 Easter Parade riots and Mr. Black saw the need for a security service. In 1969, he left the Police and formed the company.

He started out as a security guard doing criminal inquiries, because many stores were having problems with losses.

"I did investigations and installed close circuit TV systems in the shops,'' he said. "And if I caught any thieves, they'd be apprehended, then turned over to the Police. From there, the business grew.'' "Today a major portion of our business entails the movement of cash or valuables to and from hotels, stores and banks. We've literally moved millions upon millions of dollars.'' The company, located at The Security Centre at 42 King Street, has a very good track record. And that is what has kept it so competitive.

Although it does advertise, most business comes from word of mouth as a result of the high standard of the company's work.

And security is one trade that doesn't suffer during a recession. "Business is up 60 percent,'' said Mr. Black. "A great deal of crime occurs during bad times particularly in cottage colonies, guest houses and hotels.'' The company employs about 130 people. Mr. Black, the president, also belongs to the American Society of Industrial Security. His wife, Susan is also an employee of the firm. Their daughter Rachel helps out when she's home from school.

Mr. Black's secret to success is staying on top of the job all the time.

"It's not just a nine-to-five job. It's a twenty-four hour stint.'' Mr. Bill Black.