The Ministry of Public Works and Environment advised that recent periods of heavy rainfall have impacted sections of the island’s road infrastructure, resulting in the formation of potholes and surface deterioration on several main roads.
As a matter of urgency, Ministry road crews were mobilised throughout the weekend and worked across the island to carry out repairs. These works focused on addressing immediate hazards caused by weather related damage.
Road repairs were completed at the following locations over the weekend:
South Shore Road, near Stovell Lane and Coral Beach
Southcote Road
Marsh Folly Road
Crawl Hill
Spanish Point, near Point Mart
The Ministry notes that this weekend’s locations are only some of the areas addressed, and that crews will continue fill potholes into the coming work week.
Motorists are urged to exercise extra caution while driving, particularly following periods of heavy rain, and to remain alert for temporary road conditions and active maintenance work.
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment thanks the public for their patience and cooperation as efforts continue to maintain Bermuda’s road network during challenging weather conditions.
In recognition of Eid al-Fitr 2026, which was celebrated by Bermuda’s Muslim community on Friday (March 20), the Premier, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, joined Imam Basim Muwwakil and members of the community at Masjid Muhammad Mosque on Cedar Avenue.
And during the Premier’s visit and observations with Imam Muwwakil he donated funds in the amount of $10,000 to aid in their ongoing building renovations.
Premier Burt said, “The end of Ramadan marks a time of celebration for the Muslims of Bermuda. In that spirit, I presented a gift on behalf of the Government of Bermuda to support the Masjid Muhammad Building Renovation Project.
“Bermuda’s Muslim community continues to enrich our island through service, family values, and a clear example of faith in action.
“At a time when there is uncertainty and conflict in many parts of the world, it is important that we continue to uphold the values that allow people of different faiths to live together in Bermuda.
“On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, the people of Bermuda, and my family, I extend warm Eid wishes to all who celebrate. Eid Mubarak.”
Imam Basim Muwwakkil stated, “As the leader of Masjid Muhammad I would like to thank Premier Burt for visiting the community during the Eid celebrations and for the donation of $10,000 to assist with renovations to the building. This is truly appreciated.”
The City of Hamilton is inviting the community to rev up their Easter weekend plans and enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars as Fresh Air Films: Drive-In Edition returns to City Hall Car Park on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The drive-in event will include a double feature screening, beginning with Despicable Me 4 (PG) at 6:00 PM, as everyone’s favourite mischievous minions return for another hilarious adventure. Then at 9:00 PM, audiences can buckle up for Jurassic World: Rebirth (PG-13) for a thrilling return to a world where dinosaurs once again roam the earth.
Gates open at 5:00 PM, and early arrival is recommended.
To gain entry, moviegoers must present a receipt of $25 or more from any City of Hamilton business, dated between March 1 and April 4, 2026. Each receipt allows entry for up to four people, and guests are welcome to remain for both films. Those wishing to participate in the evening’s raffle draw should bring an additional receipt. To be entered into the raffle draw, attendees are asked to write their name and phone number on the back of their receipt before arriving.
The evening will also feature family-friendly activities and entertainment ahead of the films, including a game of Kahoot, where participants can compete for a one-year Platinum Touch 4Wash Membership from Auto Solutions Ltd. There will also be Dinosaur Egg giveaways for the younger attendees ahead of the screening of Jurassic World: Rebirth.
Senior Events Coordinator Lorna Hayward said: “We are excited to bring Fresh Air Films: Drive-In Edition back to the City Hall Car Park. This event is a great opportunity for families and friends to enjoy two fantastic films together while supporting City businesses. By simply shopping or dining in Hamilton and bringing your receipt on the night, moviegoers can enjoy a unique drive-in experience right in the heart of the City.”
The event is presented by SailGP, whose support helps make this community event possible. To mark approximately one month to go to the 2026 Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix, as part of Fresh Air Films, SailGP will showcase an episode of Uncharted, it’s long-form documentary series taking fans behind the scenes of the sport.
SailGP Chief Operating Officer Julien di Biase said: “SailGP is proud to support Fresh Air Films, bringing the community together in Bermuda. As we count down to the 2026 Apex Group Bermuda Sail Grand Prix, this is a great opportunity for fans to get a behind-the-scenes look at the excitement and innovation that defines our sport. We’re looking forward to welcoming both new and returning fans to Bermuda next month for an unforgettable weekend of world-class racing, and we encourage everyone to secure their tickets now to experience the thrill.”
Food and refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the evening from the following vendors:
Food Hub
Sousa’s Spring Rolls
Speciality Cinema
Ashley’s Lemonade
Attendees are also encouraged to support City restaurants and bring their take-out meals along to enjoy during the films.
In addition to drive-in parking, designated bike parking and a limited seating section at the front of the venue will be available for guests without vehicles.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the big screen under the open sky in the heart of Hamilton.
For more information, visit www.cityofhamilton.bm or email events@cityhall.bm.
Home-town heroes crush perennial rivals Cayman in thrilling final
Jubilant scenes as Bermuda stormed to victory in the Caribbean Pickleball Championship this evening.
Our elite national team demolished their perennial rivals Cayman in the final, to retain the title they won last year.
Action had switched back to the W.E.R. Joell Stadium today, after bad weather forced the games indoors to the new Press Court on Par-La-Ville Road, on Thursday morning.
Despite rain delays this evening, Bermuda’s best players retained their focus and won convincingly.
In a best of six format, Bermuda won in women’s doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles for a 4-0 rout. This after defeating Trinidad & Tobago by the same 4-0 scoreline last night.
The convincing championship win bolsters Bermuda’s burgeoning reputation as a pickleball powerhouse in the region.
Yesterday’s semi-finals and today’s finals were aired live on television and online by Bermuda Broadcasting Company.
It was a weekend of contrasting emotions for Bermuda’s overseas contingent as crucial goals in the non-league pyramid were offset by a series of frustrating defeats across the English divisions.
In League One, goalkeeper Nathan Trott produced a composed display to help Cardiff City secure a point in a 0–0 stalemate against Blackpool. However, there was further frustration for Nahki Wells, who watched from the sidelines as Luton Town drew 1–1 with Stockport. The veteran striker continues to recover from a persistent hamstring injury.
The Southern League Premier Central provided the standout highlights for the island’s attackers. Willie Clemons provided the perfect start for Leiston FC, firing home from a corner in just the third minute to set up a 1–0 victory over Worcester City. It was a similarly productive afternoon for Milan Butterfield, who found the net to inspire Halesowen Town to a significant 3–1 win against Bury Town. Lower down the pyramid, Coolridge Fubler enjoyed a successful outing as Binfield FC ground out a 1–0 win over Littlehampton.
Despite these individual highs, several stars suffered setbacks. Reggie Lambe and Needham Market fell 2–1 in a high-stakes play-off battle, while Ayleal Dill’s early fourth-minute header for Southwell City was ultimately cancelled out by a late resurgence from Staveley Miners, who snatched a 2–1 victory.
Elsewhere, Justin Donawa and Keziah Martin endured a difficult 3–1 defeat with Hereford FC, a scoreline mirrored by Zhani Burgess and his Quorn FC teammates. In the National League South, Kane Crichlow could not prevent Chelmsford City from falling 2–1 to Dover Athletic, while Ajani Burchall and Harry Twite both suffered 3–0 losses on a challenging day for the island’s defensive prospects.
The 2026 Caribbean Pickleball Championship has seen matches taking place today at the W.E.R. Joell Tennis Stadium. Bermuda Broadcasting Company has been capturing all the action, the sights, sounds, and competitive energy of the day. Kendal Trott once again went behind the scenes with General Manager Heather Lamb, reporter Julie Matthews-Borchardt, and producer Lamone Woods.
Fans can tune in at 1pm AST on TV and online for Caribbean Pickleball Championship action
Bermuda Broadcasting is bringing fans to the heart of the action today with live coverage of the Caribbean Pickleball Championship finals, as the tournament reaches its exciting conclusion.
Games are being played at Press Court, Bermuda’s first indoor pickleball facility, where Bermuda Broadcasting has set up a mobile studio to capture every moment.
Coverage begins at 1pm Atlantic Standard Time on ZFB TV7 with a pre-show, leading into the finals. Viewers can also follow the action live on the Bermuda Today app, available free, and online at bbc.bm.
Heather Lamb, General Manager at Bermuda Broadcasting Company, says the partnership with the Pickleball Association of Bermuda reflects the growing excitement around the sport and the island’s rising profile in the region.
“There is a lot of excitement around this tournament and especially considering the Bermuda national team’s growing reputation as a regional powerhouse in pickleball,” she said. “The team’s success overseas inspired us to provide live coverage, on television and online, of the key, elite matches in the Caribbean Pickleball Championship, here on home soil.
“Those who can’t make it to the venue can enjoy live action with full commentary. Bermuda is proving once again that it can host a world-class sporting event and Bermuda Broadcasting Company is proud to be at the centre of the action. Go Bermuda!”
With championship honours on the line, sports fans are encouraged to tune in and catch every serve, rally, and match point live.
Statement from Wayne Furbert, JP, MP Junior Minister of Finance
Across Bermuda, families are doing everything right, working hard and budgeting carefully, yet still finding that their money does not go as far as it once did.
That is why our focus right now is simple: lower costs where we can and ensure Bermudians keep more of what they earn.
In Parliament, we recently reduced vehicle licence fees again. Since 2018, those fees have now been cut by 20 percent, putting real savings back into the pockets of thousands of households.
We also eliminated tariffs on everyday goods to help bring down prices and reduced payroll taxes to support workers and local businesses.
None of these steps solve every challenge overnight. But they give families something many people need right now, a little breathing room.
At the same time, relief today must go hand in hand with opportunity tomorrow.
That means investing in education and training, supporting Bermudian businesses, and expanding housing so more people can afford a home.
Government cannot control every cost facing families. But where we can make life a little easier, we act to reduce pressures within our control.
We remain focused on taking practical actions that deliver real, everyday relief.
The blue-chip FTSE 100 closed down 1.4%, while the mid-cap FTSE 250 was down 1%
International News via Reuters:
London’s main indexes closed lower on Friday and logged their third consecutive weekly decline, as the escalating Middle East war and surging oil prices deepened inflation fears and cemented expectations for the Bank of England to hike interest rates.
The blue-chip FTSE 100 closed down 1.4%, while the mid-cap FTSE 250 was down 1%. Both indexes also fell for a third straight session.
Oil prices rose more than 1% on the day as the three-week-old Iran war showed no signs of abating, with the U.S. preparing to send thousands of additional troops to the Middle East in coming weeks. [O/R]
British energy stocks slipped 1.7%, but were still around record-high levels.
Aerospace and defence stocks and banking shares weighed the most on London’s benchmark, falling 2.5% and 2%, respectively.
The BoE held rates at 3.75% at Thursday’s policy meeting. Its warning that inflation posed a bigger risk than slowing growth pushed traders to price in a roughly 70% chance of a 25-basis-point hike by April and up to three quarter-point increases by year-end.
Barclays, J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley now see a higher chance of BoE hikes as early as April.
Fresh fiscal concerns emerged after Britain borrowed far more than expected in February, partly due to volatile debt-interest payments, just as the Iran conflict drove up funding costs and fuelled calls for higher public spending.
“Rachel Reeves must feel like she’s been squeezed between a rock and a hard place as the current geopolitical instability rams home the need to spend more on defence but also leaves ordinary workers at risk of another inflation burn,” said Danni Hewson, head of financial analysis at AJ Bell.
Among other movers, Smiths Group plunged 9.8%, in its steepest single-day fall since 2021, after the engineering group missed half‑year organic revenue forecasts.
JD Wetherspoon fell 10.6% after the pub chain said that its full-year profits may fall below market estimates after higher energy costs and wage-related taxes dragged first-half profit down by 37%.
Reporting by Tharuniyaa Lakshmi in Bengaluru; Editing by Harikrishnan Nair and Alex Richardson
Charles hosted on March 10 several Caribbean representatives at St. James’s Palace for the annual Commonwealth Day reception
International News via Reuters:
Campaigners for slavery reparations and scholars have criticised the British monarchy after King Charles posed with Caribbean officials at a London reception beneath a portrait of George IV, who profited from enslaved labour on plantations in Grenada.
Charles hosted on March 10 several Caribbean representatives at St. James’s Palace for the annual Commonwealth Day reception, attended by, among others, the foreign ministers of Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Grenada’s high commissioner to Britain, Rachér Croney, was also in attendance, alongside other Caribbean diplomats.
A group of 29 guests at the reception posed for a photograph with Charles and British foreign minister Yvette Cooper beneath a large portrait of George IV. The image was subsequently shared across several accounts of some Caribbean foreign ministries as well as by a high commissioner.
GEORGE IV WAS ENRICHED BY GRENADIAN ESTATES: RESEARCHER
Research by independent scholar Desirée Baptiste shared with Reuters last year, found that 1,000 pounds ($1,331.20) – about 103,000 pounds today – were paid into George IV’s private coffers from two Crown-owned Grenadian estates worked by hundreds of enslaved people in the 18th and 19th centuries.
George IV’s reign lasted from 1820 to 1830.
Experts said the finding increases pressure on the monarchy to confront its historical ties to slavery, including issuing a full apology and acknowledging the ways it profited from it.
“It is offensive to have his portrait up,” Arley Gill, chairman of Grenada’s National Reparations Committee, said. “It is doubly offensive to have persons of African descent with the king below a photograph of him.”
“It just rubs salt in the wounds.”
Gill said the criticism of the photograph presented an opportunity for some Caribbean representatives to better educate themselves on the history of slavery.
Buckingham Palace did not immediately reply to a request for comment.
Baptiste called the photograph a “diplomatic misstep” by the palace and urged Charles to “deepen his understanding” of the monarchy’s involvement in slavery.
Robert Beckford, a British professor of theology of Jamaican heritage, said the group photograph was an act of “historical amnesia.”
“Standing beneath royal portraits normalises forgetting,” Beckford added.
Charles, who expressed sorrow over slavery in a 2022 speech to Commonwealth leaders, has backed a PhD study on the royal family’s role in slavery.
A 2023 Guardian report found that King William III, who reigned from 1689 to 1702, received 1,000 pounds in shares of the Royal African Company, which trafficked thousands of enslaved Africans to the Americas.
($1 = 0.7512 pounds)
Reporting by Catarina Demony; Editing by Rod Nickel
In recent days, several countries including Poland, Spain and Croatia have announced they have withdrawn troops from the Middle East, citing the conflict in Iran and the wider Gulf region
International News via Reuters:
NATO has withdrawn all of its troops from an advisory mission in Iraq, the military alliance said on Friday, as the repercussions of the Iran war spread across the Middle East.
“I would like to thank the Republic of Iraq and all the Allies who assisted in the safe relocation of NATO personnel from Iraq,” U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said in a statement.
The statement said the mission had relocated “all its personnel” from the Middle East to Europe. A NATO official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that amounted to “several hundred” troops.
In recent days, several countries including Poland, Spain and Croatia have announced they have withdrawn troops from the Middle East, citing the conflict in Iran and the wider Gulf region.
NATO said its mission would continue from a military headquarters in Naples, Italy. The mission does not have a combat role. It focuses on advising Iraqi security forces and helping them build up their capacities, according to NATO.
“I would also like to thank the dedicated men and women of NATO Mission Iraq, who continued their mission throughout this period. They are true professionals,” Grynkewich said.
Reporting by Andrew Gray and Lili Bayer; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta, William Maclean
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