Thousands of people headed to the West End for this weekend's annual Culture Fest in Dockyard where they tasted a variety of food and were entertained by some of Bermuda's best.

Several arts and craft stalls were set up with and array of paintings, cedar carvings, dolls, and baskets. Children had their own area with a train ride and ferris wheel.

Entertainment ranged from singing groups and soloists to African dancers, and majorettes, and a laser show ending with a Beat the Retreat last night.

Coordinator Ms Miranda Gilbert said Culture Fest 1995 has been "fantastic''.

"It has been really good. This year we had everything in one location with everyone together (the stalls and entertainment), and it has worked out much better for everyone,'' she said. "It has been a constant flow of people.

Everyone is very happy and feel this year's fest is an improvement from last.'' Ms. Gilbert also said among the many visitors milling around the stalls was former United States President Jimmy Carter, who is here on a week's holiday with his wife Rosalynn. See picture above.

Many of those who attended the activities came specifically for the 23 food stalls ranging from Chinese to Italian and Bermudian.

Others came to look at the 50 arts and craft stalls or the 45 entertainers and bands.

Mr. Sean Moran, who attended the fest on Saturday, said he thought the day was great.

"I came to grab something to eat, but I really enjoyed the art work and photographs, they were really nice,'' he said. "I'm glad to see such a mix of tourist and locals.'' When asked what food stall he enjoyed the most Mr. Moran said: "The fresh tuna sandwich at the Archemides stall was so good.'' Mr. Kevin Gunther said the fest was "certainly something new to do.

Perhaps the organisers should do it more often. I'm definitely coming next year.'' "I just wish I had the stomach to taste everything,'' said Mr. Gordon Johnson, who was out representing the Council Partners.

"There is a lovely flow of people. I have had fabulous food and the choices are marvellous.'' Mrs. Rosemary McMaughton, who just moved to Bermuda last week, said she was absolutely impressed.

"I did not know what to expect coming to Culture Fest but it has met all my expectations plus. It's a nice way to be introduced to the Island.'' Mr. Llewellyn Laurence, whose wife Elizabeth operated an arts and craft stall, said the fest was wonderful and something different.

And although Mrs. Laurence also enjoyed the fest she said: "I just wish more people would buy things. They just want to know how we make things.'' Mrs. Dorothy Trott said this was the first year she had attended.

"I think it's great. The food is good but they must work on making the food hotter.''