Tourism ambassadors young and not-so-young have been praised by Premier and Tourism Minister Dr. Ewart Brown for their efforts in helping visitors during the summer.

During the past three months the Pop and Sizzle Ambassadors, primarily students who are interested in the hospitality industry, have assisted as tourist information liaisons to visitors.

It is the third year of the programme, and this year also featured a number of seniors acting as ambassadors.

"This summer our younger and older generations worked side by side in Dockyard, Hamilton and St. George's to ensure that visitors to our Island had a unique and enjoyable experience," said Dr. Brown.

"The feedback that we've gotten from visitors based on this interaction has been nothing short of tremendous. Bermuda already has a reputation of having some of the most friendly people and this extra willingness to assist has only enhanced that reputation."

The ambassador scheme is run by the Bermuda Department of Tourism. The Premier invited ambassadors to Camden for an informal luncheon to show his gratitude.

Senior ambassador Ross Smith said: "I would like to thank the Premier and Minister of Tourism, Dr. Brown for providing us the opportunity to be of service in helping our visitors to have a enjoyable and memorable vacation during their time in Bermuda.

"This experience allowed our seniors to share with our visitors some of their intimate knowledge about life in Bermuda and the various places of interest to be explored during their time with us. We look forward to being of service for the rest of this year's cruise ship schedule and hopefully next year as well."

And junior ambassador E.J. Swan said: "It is an honour to be a part of a tourist programme that helps young people in all fields of study. The Premier honored us with a luncheon and not only did he encourage us, but gave us some insight of how we need support and save tourism by speaking out about what great things Bermuda has to offer."