for heart tests at a top US hospital on Wednesday night.

Mr. Willis -- who was scheduled to end his four-year posting to Bermuda next week -- took ill with suspected heart problems early on Tuesday.

He was rushed to the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment and doctors decided he should be transferred to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore for further tests from a cardiac specialist. Mr. Willis, 54, took ill less than a week before he was due to leave the Island and retire from the Foreign Office, where he has worked for 35 years in a variety of postings across the world.

The shock illness caused the cancellation of several events being hosted to honour Mr. Willis' contribution to the Island, including a reception planned by Governor Thorold Masefield and a dinner scheduled by Premier Pamela Gordon.

Government House Registrar Paul Dryden said Mr. Willis, who is accompanied by his wife Meg, was awaiting test results.

He added: "We're awaiting results of the tests to see if he needs further medical treatment.'' Mr. Dryden said: "On behalf of Government House we would want to thank everybody who has telephoned asking about Bermuda.

"We are passing on the messages to him and he are extremely grateful for all of them.'' Mr. Willis' replacement as Deputy Governor, career Foreign Office man Tim Gurney, 40, is expected on the Island this weekend and to be sworn in by Mr. Masefield on Monday.