Nearly 400 people turned out for the reopening of Bermuda's number one Portuguese club.

Vasco da Gama Club, Reid Street, has been closed for nearly a year to undergo a facelift costing nearly $1 million. It now boasts a completely fresh look, with a new bar, furniture, bathroom and kitchen.

It will be open seven nights a week and plans are afoot for a new restaurant in the next six months.

Vice president Joe Benevides said Vasco da Gama is Bermuda's only Portuguese building that belongs to the Portuguese.

"This club has been very important to the Portuguese community," said Mr. Benevides.

Premier Ewart Brown made a speech at the reopening ceremony on Saturday night, saying he appreciated what the Portuguese community has done for Bermuda and pointing out what Bermuda has done for the Portuguese community.