Governor George Fergusson has praised the efforts of the Island’s services before and after the impact of Tropical Storm Fay and Hurricane Gonzalo.

In a statement released today, the Governor said: “We have seen a massive and impressive response to the double hit we have had within a week from Fay and Gonzalo. There has been a tremendous job of organisation and cooperation — but above all effort and commitment by very many people.

“I want to pay particular tribute to those whose public service roles kept them away from their own homes at a time when there was work to be done there — as well as real concern for families at the height of the hurricane.

“Over the last few days, I have seen and spoken to teams hard at work from the Fire and Rescue Service, Works and Engineering, Corporation of Hamilton, Parks Department, the Bermuda Regiment, and the Bermuda Police Service, as well as the Navy groups working alongside the Regiment. Many were doing 12 hour shifts and had already done work in their own or in other people’s yards.

“All were tired, almost all were cheerful, all were putting in a lot of effort. Besides that, I have seen and heard of voluntary help and plenty of helping friends, relations and neighbours.”

He added that while there will be useful lessons to learn, the spirit shown by the Bermuda community in the face of the storms is something he will remember for a long time to come.

“There is still plenty to do — but we can also now proudly demonstrate that Bermuda is open for business and for visitors,” he said.