THE EDITOR, Sir:

Please afford me the opportunity to publicly commend Custos of St James, Clarence Nelson, who has been the Governor General's official parish representative for over a decade for consistently carrying out his respective duties with integrity, humility and professionalism. He has thus become one of the most popular custodes ever in the history of St James.

Custos Nelson has been a mentor to many young men and women within the city of Montego Bay over the years and has financially and otherwise constructively assisted many needy persons who have requested help from him. He has always had a real and sincere concern for the oppressed, marginalised and poor citizens of Montego Bay and has always tried to assist them to the best of his ability, and I wholeheartedly commend Custos Nelson for constantly lending a helping hand to those in need.

Custos Nelson has constantly focused on a number of issues relevant to the development of Montego Bay and on the plight of poverty-stricken persons across the parish. I applaud him for being a fearless, outspoken and concerned custos.

Honourable conduct

He has very importantly and consistently pointed out to lay magistrates within St James that they must, at all times, conduct themselves in an upright, professional, respectable and decent manner, befitting the high public office that they occupy.

His impressive contribution to the Lay Magistrates' Association of St James has also been greatly appreciated. I congratulate Custos Nelson for his distinguished service to St James and wish him continued success, good health and God's richest blessings.

I am, etc.,

ROBERT DALLEY

Reading, P.O.

St James