Regiment.

Yesterday's VIP farewell to the Governor Sir Desmond Langley and Lady Langley contained all the hallmarks of pageantry.

But the Governor had a surprise up his white ceremonial sleeve.

With the Cabinet Office ceremony complete, the couple's horse-drawn carriage pulled away to its next stop ... the Swinging Doors bar in Court Street.

Amazed onlookers lined the street to cheer and clap as the pair walked through the doors for a brief drink and a chat.

It was truly a break with tradition, and caught many off guard.

"I just wanted to see one of my favourite places, and say goodbye,'' explained the Governor, sipping a glass of ginger ale.

One of the bar's regulars Mr. Lee Edmead presented the Governor with a painting. "He is the first Governor to come and talk to people in Court Street,'' said Mr. Edmead.

Earlier, around 300 people gathered on the Cabinet Office lawn for an official send-off.

The Governor, the Bermuda Regiment's Commander-in-Chief, inspected a Guard of Honour for the last time.

In a short address, the Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan heaped praise on the Governor and Lady Langley.

"Without doubt you leave Bermuda a better country as a result of you being here,'' he said.

The Premier particularly praised the Governor's contribution to the Bermuda Regiment.

In their speeches the Governor and Lady Langley, who flew back to London last night, thanked Bermudians and local organisations for making their four-year stay in the Island so enjoyable.

A SWINGING FAREWELL -- The Governor bids goodbye to regulars at the Swinging Doors bar on Court Street last night following a function at Cabinet. Below Sir Desmond with Lady Langley at his side, raises his plumed helmet after thanking Bermudians during his farewell speech.