importance of what is still considered to be our most vital industry.

She also stated that during this year, she hoped to become more involved in the community and promote Bermuda to the best of her ability.

Last Sunday, Miss Harvey was crowned Miss Tourism and Miss Talent during the Miss Bermuda Islands contest held at the Marriott Castle Harbour Hotel. And as Miss Tourism she will have an array of duties which require her to promote the Island.

Miss Harvey will also go to New York later this year to take part in the Miss Caribbean Pageant which she believes will be a great experience.

Yesterday, Miss Harvey was honoured by the Department of Tourism and its Minister, the Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge, at a cocktail party at the Horizon Guest Cottages.

She told The Royal Gazette that she was very excited about the upcoming contest.

"It will be a great opportunity in which I will be able to promote Bermuda.

The pageant is based on tourism and the different cultures that Caribbean islands have. I hope to make Bermuda proud.'' Mr. Woolridge said Miss Harvey will take part in a variety of activities during the year and will receive several prizes, one of which is a cruise aboard Celebrity Cruise ship Horizon which visits Bermuda on a weekly basis.

"Miss Harvey will represent Bermuda aboard the ship and all the passengers will be made aware of who she is,'' Mr. Woolridge said.

He added: "We are going to try and include Miss Tourism in many of the functions the department has that will be appropriate for her to attend.

"We will also be talking to our public relations people in New York so she can take part in any of the events. We want her to have as wide a coverage as possible.'' Mr. Woolridge added that it was most fitting that Miss Harvey won the title as she majored in hotel and restaurant management in university and has worked at several hotels on the Island.

"She will fully comprehend the importance of her mission.'' He also said he hoped Miss Harvey would encourage other women about the importance of tourism.

"Young people should recognise the importance of tourism,'' he added.