As it has since 1816, Kings Square in St. George's came alive yesterday with the pomp and pageantry of the Peppercorn Ceremony.

Hundreds of spectators braved blustery and overcast conditions to watch the St. George's Freemasons Lodge 200 make their annual rent payment for use of the State House -- a tiny peppercorn.

Members of the lodge, led by a lone bagpiper, marched onto the square to join Bermuda Regiment soldiers and the Regiment Band.

A host of dignitaries also witnessed the ceremonious exchange, including Acting Premier the Hon. Ann Cartwright DeCouto, Opposition Leader Mr.

Frederick Wade, Cabinet Ministers and the St. George's Corporation.

Town crier Mr. Bob Burns announced the Governor Lord Waddington and Lady Waddington, who arrived for their first Peppercorn Ceremony in an open carriage.

Addressing the crowd before the presentation, Lord Waddington praised the people of St. George's for maintaining the town's beauty and charm.

"Your town is packed with architectural gems which form an important part of Bermuda's heritage,'' he said.

Lord Waddington also commended the Bermuda Regiment, especially the new recruits who participated in the ceremony.

Referring to his visit to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina during the Regiment's recent training stint, Lord Waddington said: "I now know why the Bermuda Regiment is held in such high esteem.'' He also praised the Police Force, which he said deserved "complete and whole-hearted support''.

Mayor of St. George's the Wor. Henry Hayward joked that despite hard times like the present recession, the State House rent has "always been paid in full''.

Mr. Hayward applauded the Bermuda National Trust's commitment to the $1.3 million restoration of their eight East End properties, and said all Bermuda had a responsibility to see that such projects continue.

Following a booming gun salute, the Governor demanded and received the key to the State House for the purpose of holding a meeting with members of the Cabinet, thus upholding the conditions of the lease.

EYES RIGHT -- Strong winds whip the ostrich plumes of Lord Waddington's ceremonial hat, while at right, Bermuda Regiment Training Company Commander Capt. William Madeiros bellows an order during yesterday's Peppercorn Ceremony in St. George's.