representatives of the New Jersey State Police Department sailed in.

But the US Police officers and their families are not in town to arrest anyone, they are attending the annual conference of their benevolent association.

And they were welcomed by Bermuda's Minister of Tourism, the Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge, Commissioner of Police Lennett (Lennie) Edwards and other top officials from the Police and Customs Service.

They were greeted by the bagpipes of the Bermuda Pipe Band as their cruise ship, the Horizon docked.

It is the third time the New Jersey Police Benevolent Association has held its convention in Bermuda. Previous meetings were in 1985 and 1990.

Official Mr. Jeffrey Battis, of the Watchung department, said that they have hired the entire Horizon for the week-long convention.

Mr Battis said: "It is very similar to a union but, by law, we cannot strike.

Our body gets involved if there is a problem between one of our members and the force.

"At the convention we will be looking at laws that have been enacted recently and review any problems that have arisen. This year we are looking at a couple of pension legislation matters.

"We represent present and past members of the New Jersey State Police Department and their families.'' But the convention is also a chance for members and families of the association to meet and enjoy Bermudian hospitality.

A full itinerary has been organised by Sgt. John Dale and P.C. Brian Robinson of the Bermuda Police Force.

Mr. Woolridge welcomed the convention members and asked them to leave their guns on the ship! He said: "You will not need them here.

"Bermudians are some of the friendliest people in the world. It is appropriate that you should come here and get a taste of our friendliness.'' Mr. Woolridge presented a plaque of the Bermuda Coat of Arms to first vice president of the NJPBA, Mr. Mike Madonna.

Mr. Madonna said: "This is a beautiful and clean place. Hopefully we will leave it that way, but with a little less beer.'' Commissioner Edwards said that he was looking forward to meeting the members over the next few days.

WELCOME TO BERMUDA -- Minister of Tourism the Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge (left) and Commissioner of Police Lennett (Lennie) Edwards (right) present the Bermuda Coat of Arms to Mr. Mike Madonna, first vice president of the New Jersey Police Benevolent Association on the pool deck of the cruise ship Horizon.