Anguilla’s former Premier, Mr. Victor Banks, has been thanked for his nearly four decades in politics and, in particular, for his leadership in Government during part of that period.
The occasion was a surprise pool party for him at South Hill, overlooking the scenic Road Bay Harbour, on Saturday night, September 26. The event was hosted, and mainly organised, by his former schoolmate, Mrs. Rhona Richardson-Roydon. The guests included other schoolmates, past colleagues in Government, relatives and friends.
Mr Banks is due to leave Anguilla on October 5 for the Cayman Islands for treatment to an injured hip he sustained more than three months ago.
In addressing the considerably large gathering, the host said in part: “This is a man who has given of his talents to Anguilla. In the recent Service of Thanksgiving, at the Ebenezer Methodist Church, Mr. Marcel Fahie gave a history of Mr. Banks’ contribution not only to Anguilla – but to the region. This is not a night for politics and I am not talking politics, but everybody knows about his contribution; so we are just here to enjoy ourselves and to say thanks to him.”
Mr. Claudel Romney, who served as a Nominated Member of the Anguilla House of Assembly during Mr. Banks’ leadership, recalled witnessing his contribution to Anguilla over the years. He said what struck him most was when, as Deputy Speaker, he travelled to the United Kingdom with Mr. Banks, leader of the Anguilla delegation, to attend an Overseas Heads of Government meeting. He recalled that he was very proud of Mr. Banks’ performance. He thanked him for his many years of service to Anguilla and its people.
Mrs. Jacquie Ruan, owner of Ripples Restaurant, also thanked Mr. Banks for his work over many years. She said he had worked tirelessly and with dedication – and should be knighted by Queen Elizabeth for his service.
Known for his humility, the former Premier said he had originally thought he was simply invited to visit the area – only to find himself at a surprise party. “A number of my classmates, colleagues, family members and friends are here with me,” he observed. “I thank all of you very much for coming here to celebrate with me. As you can see, I am walking with a stick. That is because I had a traumatic injury to my hip, and I am seeking to go off to get it amended. I have never been in the hospital in all my life; but, right now, I am looking forward to go to the hospital. Can you imagine that? That is the way life is.”
Mr. Banks estimated that he will be in the Cayman Islands for about three weeks.
