Birthday Parade yesterday.

There was no Royal Navy ship available for the Bermuda celebrations yesterday but a guard of 46 members of the Second Submarine Squadron had been flown in specially to provide the guard for the march past.

All the submariners had been flown from Devonport in a special Royal Air Force Hercules transport plane on Saturday.

Commanding Officer at HMS Malabar Cdr. Robin Bawtree said: "While a ship was not available we decided to fly in a guard specially for the event. They only heard about this three weeks ago and have been training ever since.

"They had a long practice parade on Sunday and found it very hot. It was cooler today. They acclimatised very well.'' First Officer of the Guard was Lt. Peter Rouch, Second Officer was Lt. Andy Titcomb, Colour Guard was Sub. Lt. John Burrows and Guard Training Officer was Lt. Reg Bell.

The guard flew out yesterday after having a little free time to see Bermuda.

They returned in the Hercules which was involved in a noisy fly past during the parade.

It was piloted by Sqdn. Ldr. Phil Sharman and included Sqdn. Leader Ted Lecount who will retire from flying after 40 years when they return home.

Hundreds turned out to witness the parade including the Governor Lord Waddington who led the salute and cheers for the Queen.

The Bermuda Regiment Band provided stirring music again to the crowds of visitors and residents gathered on Front Street.

Many businesses closed for the day, except in Dockyard where the West End Development Company had persuaded everyone to stay open to provide a service for visitors.

HIP HIP HOORAY! -- Governor Lord Waddington leads the cheers for the Queen during yesterday's parade.