The leaders of Bermuda's two main political parties put their election year quarrels to one side to celebrate Bermuda Day yesterday.

Premier Pamela Gordon and Opposition Leader Jennifer Smith sat side-by-side and chatted throughout the opening ceremony to the day's events at Bernard Park.

Both leaders, flanked by Cabinet members and other dignitaries, watched a procession by a host of youth groups and the Bermuda Regiment Band before speaking to hundreds of Heritage Day revellers.

They both spoke of the need for Bermudians to work together for a better future, reminding the crowds that the theme for Heritage Month was Unity through Diversity.

And Ms Gordon had special words for the youngsters involved in Bermuda's growing legion of youth groups.

"It's a privilege for me to be here today to thank all of you for your participation,'' said the Premier.

"This year's theme for our Heritage Month is Unity through Diversity and all you have to do is take one moment and look at the person next to you to determine that Bermuda is a truly diverse community.

"But in our diversity and our ability to bring out our differences, we are also able to celebrate the things that are alike once we realise that the one thing that separates us happens to be the same thing that unites us.

"I recognise that all of you young people who choose to participate in these volunteer organisations give something to our community and Bermuda is very definitely the richer for your participation.'' The Premier added that Bermuda had become a "richer, healthier and better place'' before officially opening the holiday celebrations.

Politicians join forces Progressive Labour Party Leader Ms Smith picked up on the same theme, saying: "This year's Bermuda annual heritage celebration causes us to reflect on Unity through Diversity.

"This afternoon's parade will affirm that diversity through floats and entries that will appeal to our eyes and soak to our souls.

"Let us show respect for each other's ornate work. Today, Bermuda is more diverse than ever and it is easy to lose sight of the fact that working together to achieve a common purpose is one of our national traditions.

"This spirit of community is often evident in times of disaster or strife but it is a tradition that must be nurtured and protected as an important part and valuable part of our heritage.'' Putting politics aside, the Opposition Leader congratulated the Ministry of Community and Cultural Affairs for its "sterling work'', despite operating on a "shoestring budget''.

"It is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the workers concerned,'' she added.

"I heartily applaud all those involved in the many events taking place during this heritage month.'' New Sports Minister John Barritt, whose audience included scouts, guides, brownies, boys' and girls' brigade members, the Seventh Day Adventist Conference and the First International Conference on Deafness, rose to thank the volunteers who helped organise the Bermuda Day festivities.

"Today would not have been possible except for the work of those behind the scenes,'' he said.

"I'm talking about the brigade masters, scout masters, guide leaders... the people who put up barriers today and the ladies and gentlemen who stood there and kept time for people in the race, out on the roads.

"These are people who don't do it for the glory but do it because it's the right thing.

"That's a tradition I hope we will keep alive in Bermuda for many years to come.''