After 36 years at the Bermuda Fire Service, and 15 years as its chief, the time has come for Reginald Rawlins to step down.

Chief Fire Officer Rawlins, who will be officially stepping down from the post on January 31, 2002, said the move is bittersweet.

He noted he joined the service during a time of challenges and is proud of its progress into the 21st Century.

"I accepted the post of Chief Fire Officer in 1987, with all its controversy and challenges," he said in a press release. "I applied my training with a sense of responsibility, driven primarily by the will to do my best.

"The Service has prospered and has grown into a professional organisation that engenders the public's confidence. I am proud to have been a part of its growth and development."

Mr. Rawlins is also a lay worker at the Bermuda Cathedral and has expressed a keen interest in music.

Upon his retirement, he said he will devote most of his time to pursuing writing, reading and honing his skills in playing the organ.

Mr. Rawlins' departure leaves the post vacant and there was no word on who his successor will be.

Robert Horton, permanent secretary for the Ministry of Labour, Home Affairs and Public Safety, said the position will be advertised shortly.