A number of high-profile speakers will address an anti-drugs street rally in Hamilton on Saturday.

Government ministers Randolph Horton and Ewart Brown will speak at the day-long event on Court Street, along with a range of speakers from Bermuda and further afield.

The rally has been organised by Bermudians Against Narcotics (BAN), a new organisation founded by Muslim and Christian Bermudians who wish to tackle the scourge of drugs on the Island.

Joining Dr. Brown and Mr. Horton in addressing the crowd will be Mayor of Hamilton Lawson Mapp, Clinton Muhammad of BAN and new National Drug Control Minister Wayne Perinchief.

Louise Jackson, the Shadow Minister for Health, Family Services and Seniors, will speak on the issue of concerns for senior citizens, while Iman Basin Muwwakil of the Masjid Muhammad and Pastor Ronnie Smith of the Church of God will represent the religious communities.

Steven Simons and Elmore Warren of the Uptown Market Association, a business organisation set up to regenerate Northeast Hamilton, will also address the rally.

A number of other organisations will be represented, including the Physical Abuse Centre, The Aged and Handicapped Association and the Heartline Association.

Gombey dancers, African Dancers and the Bermuda Regiment Band will entertain the crowds.

Mr. Simons, who is helping to organise the event, said: ?We are pleased with the way things are going, and anticipate a nice turnout on the day.

?We want to get everyone in the community involved in this event, which will cross all ethnic and religious boundaries.

The rally will be held at the vacant parking lot opposite the Spinning Wheel nightclub from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.