It started as it began all those years ago.

Bermuda's 400th anniversary year came roaring in with a tempest of high winds and stormy weather. New Year's Eve partygoers however, were not deterred and "made the best of it", according to St. George's mayor Mariea Caisey.

Although some entertainments and the fireworks had to be cancelled, the Town Square was packed with Islanders wanting to cheer the New Year in.

New Year's Day also brought an enthusiastic crowd to the walk around Spittal Pond organised by Imagine Bermuda. Organiser Glenn Fubler estimated up to 700 people braved the cold and windy weather.

"We were a little overwhelmed," said Mr. Fubler.

Ms Caisey, commenting on the New Year's Eve celebrations in the East End, said: "Unfortunately Mother Nature was not kind to us and a lot of the activities we were going to have had to be cancelled due to the weather."

A children's movie and large screens showing the festivities in Times Square and London did not go ahead due to the 25-30 knot winds, while Ms Caisey said a blown fuse also caused havoc for an hour. However, she added: "After that everything went well."

"It was very cold and windy but there were hundreds of people in the town and I think everyone made the best of it. The Square was full, it was an excellent turnout."

With music from 'golden oldies' to reggae and today's chart toppers, the crowds were treated to a memorable New Year. The 'Onion Drop' marked the start of 2009, and Ms Caisey said it is hoped a replacement can be found for next year.

"We're hoping to get a sponsor as it's on its last legs, it's about 17 years old," she said.

Ms Caisey added: "We started the year off here in the old town where it all began, but the big thing is the celebrations in Hamilton this Saturday."

The launch party for Bermuda's 400th birthday celebrations takes place in Front Street tomorrow (Saturday) between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.. Among the attractions are Gombeys, stilt walkers, aerial theatre, fire dancers, music, the Regiment Band and fireworks.Yesterday, Imagine Bermuda marked the Island's 400th anniversary with a guided walk through both history and natural beauty at Spittal Pond. Below average temperatures a bitter 53 degrees, the normal being 62, only seemed to embolden walkers.Mr. Fubler said: "The turnout was beyond expectations and we were overwhelmed by the numbers. In the morning it looked like we might have to postpone due to the weather, but Bermuda began in a storm with the shipwreck of the Sea Venture and so that galvanised us to push on."People were very enthusiastic about it, and a lot of them were visiting Spittal Pond for the first time. It was really fantastic to start our 400th year this way." n Read tomorrow's Royal Gazette for a special report on Bermuda's upcoming 400th anniversary celebrations.