Thousands of people poured into Wellington Oval in St. George's yesterday to celebrate Cup Match in true Bermuda style with plenty of cricket, mussel pie, Crown and Anchor and two days of glorious sunshine.

The early morning and early afternoon heat did nothing to deter revellers from kicking up their heels, blowing horns and watching their favourite team bowl or bat throughout the day with St. George's emerging as the victor.

This year's match was under heavy Police presence who rushed out onto the field during a dispute between players before the afternoon tea break.

Despite the heavy security, the peaceful atmosphere was enjoyed by all as visitors and locals sampled everything the festivities had to offer.

"I'm enjoying it, I was disappointed that St. George's declared a little too early," said Kenneth Simons two hours before the St. George's team walked away winners. "I've been coming all my life and I love it. It's a nice peaceful atmosphere, the perfect time to relax and watch a good game of cricket."

Steve Simons, who was running a Crown and Anchor stall, said the thousands of people who crowded into the tent for the Island's two days of legalised gambling made his business successful. High rollers were throwing down everything from $2 bills to $100 bills to test their luck.

"I hope to walk away with $50,000," said Mr. Simons. "People seem to be enjoying themselves so I am sure it will be possible."

St. George's fan Gavin Carter, who attends Cup Match every year, was enjoying himself meeting people and taking in the cricket.

"I enjoy meeting people and watching cricket. For me this is a time to socialise and to support my team, St. George's," he said.

Cup Match, for Bermudians and visitors, is the chance for a favourite team to win but is not limited to the game itself. The fairly subdued game of cricket was a highlight of the trip for Jill Cline from North Carolina. Visitors were kept hydrated with plenty of drinks and an explanation of cricket throughout the afternoon at the visitors' tent.

"We feel like we've really experienced some local culture," said Ms Cline. "This is the best thing we've done so far on our trip."

Englishmen Peter Redman and Richard Crossley said they enjoyed the flavour of Bermudian cricket.

"This is super, it's a great atmosphere, it's very fun. The players here seem to wear their emotions on their sleeve, no one should miss this experience," said Mr. Redman.

Sean McCarthy of Edinburgh said the atmosphere and the weather made it a fantastic experience.

"We've really had a good time, we played Crown and Anchor and we won the first time and lost three other times," he said.

Local Patrick Outerbridge, who watches the game every year, said it was a great chance to catch up with friends. "I'm here for the whole experience, to catch up with friends and to enjoy the atmosphere," he said.

Dressed in a floppy hat which drew the attention and admiration of many in the crowd, Debbie Backeberg said she hoped to walk away yesterday evening as a winner of the BTC most outrageous hat competition.

"I'm a regular at Cup Match, I love the Elephant beer as well," she laughed.