More than 100 children sang songs and danced to celebrate the Universal Day of the Child.

Youngsters from a host of schools and nurseries put on a performance for a crowd of about 60 people at the steps of the City Hall in Hamilton yesterday morning.

The event featured a proclamation from Health Minister Nelson Bascome, which promoted family values and the importance of protecting children from abuse.

Organisers said the day was designed to acknowledge children as the leaders of the future.

Children from schools and nurseries at St. Paul AME, Academy at Woodlands, Kidds Kollege, St. John's Pre-school and Little Lambs all provided entertainment to demonstrate the talents of Bermudian youngsters.

Blanche Burchall, supervisor of Kidds Kollege, said: "A lot of work went into making this event good and showing what the children were capable of. It was a wonderful experience for the children and for the adults watching."

In the proclamation, Mr. Bascome said: "This Government aims to foster a social consensus and commitment within the community that will encourage all citizens to come together to mentor our youth about the dangers of substance abuse and violence.

"It is inherent that we lead them by example, on a path which promotes healthy, responsible, compassionate leaders of the future."

Universal Day of the Child co-ordinator Glenda Edwards said: "This day is to recognise children and their rights. It's the Government's commitment to promote the rights of children."

The event outside the City Hall was followed by more celebrations throughout the rest of the day, including a Young Citizen Awards ceremony at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess hotel.