Bermuda's strained relationship with the UK has dominated leading British media reports on the Queen's visit to the Island this week.

The BBC and The Times both highlighted the tension since the Premier brought four former Guantánamo Bay prisoners to the Island without permission from the UK this June, a move the BBC said had "angered Britain".

In a report on its website yesterday, the BBC included an old interview from the Premier in which he said he believes Independence will "eventually come", stating: "I believe in Independence because I believe it's a natural consequence of development, personal and country."

The article commented on the pomp and ceremony of the Queen's arrival on Tuesday, and noted that residents evidently still had some affection and admiration for their head of state.

However, it concluded by panning to crown-clad toddlers in the crowd and declaring: "The sun has not set on this remote British outpost, but it might burn less brightly for the next generation."

The Times reflected on a "bittersweet" occasion for the Queen as she arrived back on the Island she first visited 56 years ago.

That newspaper said that in 1953 the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh had enjoyed a rapturous welcome from thousands of Bermudians who "would have been proud to describe themselves as loyal subjects".

It said this year's visit in contrast was "overshadowed by a row between Britain and Bermuda earlier this year which reportedly threatened to derail the state visit".

The Times referred to Dr. Brown's "ambitions to achieve Independence" but said polls showed the majority of people have consistently been against the idea.

It also reported on enthusiastic cheers from St. George's residents gathered for her turnout, with 91-year-old Jean Cumming Shaw saying: "To me she is the greatest lady in the world. She represents dignity, poise and humour."