Metal detectors, handbag searches and even pat-downs were part of the process at the three public entrances to the Annual Exhibition yesterday.

Entrances at Point Finger, South Shore and Berry Hill roads were each manned by at least two Police officers as families, schoolchildren and other members of the public inundated the first day of the show.

Police also maintained a high profile inside the Botanical Gardens. Officers patrolled the grounds and the Police mobile command unit was parked next to the main ring, outside the Visitors' Centre.

CCTV cameras were also installed with manned monitoring stations.

The security measures were taken in the wake of a series of shootings, which culminated in a bloody Easter weekend two people were shot and injured and Kimwandae Walker was shot dead as families flew kites on Victor Scott Primary School playing field.

Yesterday Police also downplayed an e-mail that was circulating.

It suggested acts of violence, including shooting, kidnapping and rape, were going to take place at the Exhibition.

The e-mail said in part: "Apparently some of the local gangs are planning on doing something at the Ag. show this Friday. The latest initiation for gang members it is said is now to seek out girls under the age of 12 and rape them."

Environment and Sports Minister Glenn Blakeney appealed to the public to stop forwarding the e-mail, which he said was only fuelling the rumours.

"There are many rumours circulating the Island concerning planned gang activity at the Annual Exhibition," he said. "These rumours are unfounded and serve only to incite panic and fear in members of the public.

"I have full confidence in the Bermuda Police Service, as well as the security measures in place at the Annual Exhibition, to ensure a safe environment for all.

"I encourage everyone who wants to come to the Exhibition to come with their children and enjoy a family fun day and to not worry about the unsubstantiated claims being circulated Island wide via e-mail."

The e-mail was forwarded multiple times to this paper and even prompted a Police spokesperson to take to the airwaves to dispel the allegations.

He then told this paper: "There is nothing to substantiate the allegations in the e-mail and there are appropriate security arrangements in place for the event."

Although security was tight at every entrance yesterday, one officer at the Berry Hill entryway said that Thursday was traditionally a slower day when families attended. He added: "The next few days however will be busier. I think with the climate, the show visitors are happy with the level of security."

Another officer monitoring cars entering the only public drive-in entrance on South Road said: "We just want to reassure the public that the Police are here to make them feel safe and secure. A lot of people have also pre-bought tickets and that's good. It means less cash at the entrance. It's pretty organised as I see it. Our main thing is to maintain an obvious presence.

"We know who are prone to cause troubles. We cannot really stop them. It's a public event, but it's important that officers are aware who is in the event."