Preview Magazine this week held its Extra Mile award ceremony at Rock Island Coffee for Bermudians who have gone the extra mile for tourism.

Nine awards were given out by the monthly tourist journal, but only five recipients could attend the ceremony, which recognised the hard work and friendly outlook that makes Bermuda what it is for visitors.

Recipients of the Extra Mile awards included Mrs. Judith Burgess of the Airport Visitors Service Bureau, Marine and Ports ferry operator Mr. Gary Rattery and Mr. Gary Simons, who accepted an award on behalf of the Public Transportation Board's sightseeing division.

Mr. Marino Bortoli, owner of Tuscany restaurant, and Mrs. June Swan of the Harbourmaster on Reid Street were also present to accept their prizes.

Recipients who were not on hand to accept awards included Mr. Dino Valenghi of Portofino restaurant, Mrs. Darlene Simons from the Elbow Beach Hotel's social desk, Ms Stacey Coles of the St. George's Club and Mr. Eric Pedro from Bermuda Island Cruises.

"We must remember,'' Preview publisher Mrs. Roxy Kaufman said during the ceremony, "how important tourism is to this Island. We hear so much about international business and exempt companies; they would not exist without tourism.'' Mrs. Kaufman added: "Tourism is number one.

It came first; that's why it is first.''