A once-neglected area of Hamilton was transformed into a blaze of colour and activity yesterday as the Bermuda Day Heritage Parade went through the “back of town” for the first time.

A decision by Government to incorporate Court Street and the surrounding area into the May 24 route appeared to have paid off as thousands descended onto the streets of North Hamilton to mark the occasion.

Community and Cultural Affairs Minister Wayne Perinchief, whose Ministry organises the annual spectacle, said the decision was part of a deliberate strategy of inclusion for an area designated an Economic Empowerment Zone.

“It was really part of a strategy to include more of the people who actually participate and give it more exposure,” he said. “We wanted to involve Court Street.

“I have a personal belief that Court Street runs from Front Street through the heart of the north of Hamilton. That to me is like a main artery that provides the link between Front Street and the North Hamilton development area. You’ll see more of that type of linking in the future. The Government has a focus on that.”

Premier Ewart Brown told The Royal Gazette: “ Bermuda is a place where no sector can be left out and Government’s efforts towards the Economic Empowerment Zone and the efforts to uplift that area of town, this is all consistent with that. We will not bypass it and it will not be ignored. It must become economically viable.”

The uptown area, which recently received a Government grant for $[1/4] million for regeneration, welcomed the parade, with shopkeepers and householders proudly displaying flags and banners.

Back of town resident Michael Carey, of Friswells Hill, said: “It’s definitely a good thing. It’s getting back to the old tradition, when the May 24 race used to start here.”

The new route was not the only change to the Bermuda Day festivities. Horses and carriages were banned from the parade in what Mr. Perinchief called a “calculated omission” to ease public concern after two recent incidents involving runaway horses.

But he revealed that he would be happy to see them return next year if carriage owners would agree to having a groomsman to hold the head of every horse taking part. The United States Fleet Forces Band from Norfolk, Virginia, took part in yesterday’s celebrations after an absence of more than 12 years. US Consul Gregory Slayton said it was the first time a US military band had been involved since the base closed.

“We have been working on this project for about a year and it’s wonderful to see. We are honoured to be here and part of this.”

Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley said the day showed how Bermudians could come together. “I just hope that this continues on longer than today,” he added.

Police said Bermuda Day went smoothly with no untoward incidents to report. About 100 officers were deployed to control the crowds and divert traffic away from the centre of Hamilton. The annual fitted dinghy race in St. George’s harbour was cancelled due to the windy conditions.