A brief downpour forced onlookers to run for cover during the lighting of Hamilton's official Christmas tree last night, but it didn't dampen their spirits.

In a smaller-scale Bermudian version of the lighting of the Christmas tree at New York's Rockefeller Centre, dozens of dignitaries, schoolchildren and shoppers taking advantage of the first extended shopping hours of the season clapped and cheered as Hamilton Mayor William Boyle flicked the switch that illuminated the 16-foot North Carolina pine in front of City Hall.

On the steps of the building, a Salvation Army band played seasonal favourites like "Joy To The World'' as Friends of Hospice volunteers encouraged passersby to "Light Up A Life'' by donating to Agape House, the Paget facility that provides hospice services to the terminally ill and their families.

Each of the tiny golden lights on the tree, which was provided by the Corporation of Hamilton, represents a donation to the four-year-old hospice.

More lights will be added as more donations come in, said project co-ordinator Ms Zina Darrell.

Before the Christmas tree was illuminated, the Rev. Rudolph Ebbin urged onlookers to hold hands as he offered a prayer for the occasion.

Prior to turning the switch, Mr. Boyle added: "We can make this the brightest Christmas tree in all of Hamilton by donating to the Friends of Hospice. And we hope to make (the ceremony) an annual event.'' In addition to Mr. Boyle, last night's tree-lighting ceremony was attended by Corporation Secretary Mr. Roger Sherratt, Agape House co-ordinator Mrs. Hilary Soares and Friends of Hospice chairman Mr. Keith Hollis.

Anyone who is interested in adding a light to the City Hall tree can do so by calling the Friends at 236-6153 and making a donation.

Next month, Hamilton will host the yearly Junior Chamber of Commerce Santa Claus Parade on December 10 and a Christmas carol concert in Victoria Park on December 17, while the Town of St. George, which holds its parade on December 9, will also play host to Kris Kringle when he arrives -- by firetruck -- on December 16.