Saying farewell to a Lt-Governor is invariably sad for Guernsey. Without exception in modern times, the incumbents have embraced island life and thrown themselves into this community with an enthusiasm that is tangible.

Sir Fabian and Lady Malbon, however, have managed to go beyond that level of involvement and yesterday, as a result, were able to thank islanders for making them feel like ‘Guerns’.

To be so accepted by the island in a short space of time is no mean feat and speaks volumes about the easy way in which they have become part of the community by showing an interest in every facet of its daily activities.

Apart from their natural friendliness, the Malbons made it clear that every event they attended really was a pleasure and readily communicated the joy they were getting out of being there.

Unsurprisingly, then, people warmed to them, and especially to Sir Fabian’s effortless public speaking skills and – in particular – his often deadly off the record comments.

What Lt-Governors do very well is help remind islanders of the benefits they have of living in Guernsey because they see the beauty of the island, the friendliness of its people and the still very strong sense of community through new eyes.

They recognise and respond to what the rest of us take for granted.

The other benefit they bring is the day job: being the personal, resident representative of Her Majesty.

More than anything, that cements the special, centuries-long relationship this Bailiwick has had with the Crown, with Britain and the autonomy we enjoy from Her Majesty’s Government, whichever party or coalition might be in power.

The respect that islanders have for the office of Lt-Governor is an acknowledgement of that special relationship and the Queen’s interest in the Bailiwick, confirmed this week by Sir Fabian, shows that it is strongly two-way.

The Malbons’ self-effacing approach – he remains Sir Fab to hundreds – and obvious love for the Bailiwick and its citizens have helped to strengthen that relationship.

So as the former Lt-Governor settles today in Weymouth, islanders can look back on the last five years and say, thanks, you were Ab Fab.