When it comes to Cup Match, British visitor Lawrence Tagg never hesitates. Every year for the past 38 he has dusted off his suitcase, packed his semi-tropical clothing, and hopped a plane from London to Bermuda to take his place among the enthusiastic spectators soaking up the annual classic.

As always he cannot wait for tomorrow's match to begin.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," he says. "The combination of the atmosphere and the friendliness of the people is quite unique."

The die-hard cricket fan was first introduced to our summer splash while staying at the then-Buena Vista guest house in Paget. Referred to the former Mrs. Delma Gibbons, mother of top Bermuda cricketer Noel Gibbons, for answers to his questions about Cup Match, he not only had them expertly answered but also was invited to attend the game with her.

Thus began a great friendship which thrives to this day. In fact, Mr. Tagg has been back 44 times in all, often as the surprise guest at important milestones in Mrs. Smith's life. "I have travelled to many parts of the world, but I never tire of coming to Bermuda, particularly in these stressful times," he says. "For me it will always be my number one holiday destination."

In fact, Mr. Tagg knows all too well about "stressful." Shortly after returning home from attending his friend's wedding to Earlston Smith in December, 1995 he learned that he had cancer.

Today, following surgery as the sole course of treatment, he is as fit as a fiddle. "I am a walking miracle," he says gratefully.

Recalling his attendance at Mrs. Smith's wedding, the jovial Briton recalls being kept hidden by her friends and warned not to go into Hamilton on the day because chances were he would bump into her.

Disobeying "orders", sure enough he bumped into the bride-to-be, who, needless to say, was astonished to see him. When he flew in for Mr. Smith's 80th birthday party, he was hidden in a broom closet until the appropriate moment.

However, there are no surprises when Mr. Tagg arrives to attend Cup Match with the Smith's. Tonight, Mrs. Smith will prepare their annual picnic during the wee small hours, and at 7 a.m. tomorrow morning the trio will set off for Wellington Oval to secure a prime spot.

Thereafter, they won't budge as they focus on the action and absorb the incomparable atmosphere over both days. Asked which team he supports, Mr. Tagg responds diplomatically.

"I am a neutral supporter, though I must say when Somerset has won it's been a nice surprise," he says, "but I am here to see a good game of cricket. May the best team win."