SENIOR residents of Lorraine Rest Home in Warwick received a surprise visit yesterday morning.

No, not from the jolly old man himself, but rather by top brass of the Bermuda Regiment who dropped by to deck the halls and usher in a bit of pre-Christmas spirit to some of the island's senior.

"During this time of the year, the Bermuda Regiment full-time staff get together in the spirit of Christmas, which in my opinion, should be all about giving," said Regiment Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Eddie Lamb.

"Far too often people concentrate on the receiving end but I take the view that we at the Bermuda Regiment should continue our giving throughout the Christmas season. And this is a just a token of our spreading some Christmas cheer, particularly to those who have paved the way for us and helped to create the Bermuda we enjoy today."

During the brief ceremony, senior residents at the rest home were entertained by Regiment staff who shed their tough-guy image, and sang Christmas carols to the beat of the Regiment Band.

Col. Lamb added: "They were very receptive and also joined in the singing with us and a good time was had by all. They were very appreciative."

Leading by example, Col. Lamb also played an active role during the proceedings.

"Yours truly was on the bells. And we all sang. We concentrated on the collective effort. It was a team effort and not a solo effort," he explained.

"We had a rehearsal prior to going up there and they thoroughly enjoyed our visit and appreciated the time that we took out to show them a little appreciation as well."

Following the ceremony, Regiment staff took the time out to mingle with their senior hosts.

"We hung around for a bit and dwelled a little bit," he said. "And again, this is all part and parcel of what we are all about. Giving of ourselves to this community.

"This is just a small way we can spread some cheer at this time of the year.

"In my opinion, the emphasis should be on giving rather than receiving and this is just a token of our giving back to the community."