It was a sporting gesture guaranteed to thrill scores of baseball-crazy Bermudian youngsters.

More than 100 helmets, 54 bats, 24 sets of shin guards, and 17 masks were handed to delighted organisers of a sports programme at the former US Base in St. David's.

Yesterday's presentation to the Youth Athletic Organisation was made by Minister of Sport the Hon. Pamela Gordon.

"Obviously, we are really pleased to receive the equipment,'' said YAO steering committee member Mr. David Rose.

Last month, Government decided to reserve a plot of land for children to play baseball, soccer and golf under the stewardship of the Bermuda Youth Athletic Organisation.

The area had been used for recreation by the US Navy -- which deserted the Base on September 1 -- and also children as part of the YAO.

Recently, the land was handed over to the Youth and Sports Ministry for the benefit of the community.

Joining Miss Gordon at yesterday's ceremony were Youth and Sports director Mr.

Anthony Roberts, and YAO steering committee members Mr. Rose, Mr. Roger Hollis and Mr. Calvin Trott.

Miss Gordon told YAO organisers how excited she was by their programme, which included a variety of sports.

"We will do whatever we can do to make sure our children will benefit so that they can feel better about themselves, and deter them from getting into drugs.'' The Bermuda YAO, set up in June, was organised by parents in St. David's and St. George's to carry on the programme previously run by the Base.

Yesterday, Mr. Rose said the YAO would carry out soccer registration on Saturday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

This would be for three age groups: 4-6; 7-10; and 11-13.

The YAO also have another important date in their calendar -- October 7, when the opening ceremony for their sports programme kicks off.

VIPs, including Premier the Hon. David Saul, MPs from the area, and the American Consul, have been invited to attend.

"There will be a small soccer tournament,'' said Mr. Rose.

Before then, however, another important event will take place at the site, known as the Kindley Community Playing Fields.

Mr. Roberts said the Youth and Sports Ministry was holding an Open House this Saturday, and everybody was welcome to attend.

"There will be entertainment shows, kids rides and refreshments,'' he explained.

Mr. Roberts said the event was designed to get people accustomed to using the fields.

"For so long people have been stopped at the gates by the US Navy personnel and challenged.

"They haven't got used to the idea of just coming in and taking advantage of the facilities.

The Open House will be held between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.