Bermuda College students are keenly interested in today's election and the promises of the political parties.

And of those who would speak to The Royal Gazette each said they would vote today and were glad their student government had pulled off the coup of a head-to-head debate between Premier Pamela Gordon and her would-be successor Jennifer Smith, Opposition Progressive Labour Party Leader.

Nichelle Sticca, 18, said she would be leaving the Island and had taken part in the advance polling.

Ms Sticca thought it was important to vote and said some of her fellow students were interested in the debate.

She added: "But some say they want change but they are not going to vote. It doesn't make sense.'' About the College rally which featured the debate between the leaders, Ms Sticca said she was glad the student government had organised it and added: "It was nice to have actually a politician here to talk to and hear what they had to say.'' Rannell Wales said that although a politician had been to her home, she had not had a chance to meet any.

Ms Wales, 18, continued: "Yes, I will be voting and voting for PLP. The youth vote is important because one vote can make a difference. A big difference.

"It might just be mine. Most definitely I will vote,'' she added.

Chris Pitcher, also 18, said he intended to vote for "the party that will help me and help with the job situation. "I feel that everyone should vote.

One vote can lead to victory or defeat,'' he said.

And about his peers, Mr. Pitcher said "quite a few'' were interested in the election and even those who were underage wanted to be prepared.

Ishmir Savory, 18, was quite clear for whom she would vote.

"Yes I plan to vote,'' she said. "It's very important to make a new Bermuda.

The UBP has done nothing for us. For all people, white and black, we need unity and peace and love.'' Ishmir Savory Chris Pitcher Nichelle Sticca Rannel Wales