to celebrate the arrival of 1993.

An estimated 6,000 people, including many families, embraced as the clock struck midnight.

As the outdoor party was taking place other residents and visitors celebrated in pubs, restaurants and homes all over the Island.

Police reported a fairly problem-free night with only a couple of incidents, including noisy parties, marring the general atmosphere of good humour.

One of the worst incidents occurred on Front Street where an object, believed to be a glass, was thrown into a woman's face just after midnight.

The 26-year-old Paget woman was treated for cuts to her face by an ambulance crew but did not have to go to hospital.

The St. George's party went off without problems according to Police. Around 10 percent of the population of Bermuda joined in the party, which is similar to celebrations in Time Square in New York and Trafalgar Square in London.

Delighted Mayor of St. George's, the Wor. Henry Hayward was handed the microphone to welcome in the New Year.

And Mr. Hayward and reggae band Studio 6 led the singing of Auld Lang Syne to signal the re-start of a party that had been going on since 10.30 p.m.

Mr. Hayward said: "There were about 5,000 or 6,000 people there which is about the same as the last few years.

"But this year there were a lot more people in the Square early in the evening. There were a lot of families... a lot of children were there with their parents.

"There weren't many visitors, it was mainly Bermudians from different parts of the Island.'' Studio 6 had entertained the early arrivals in the square, with local pubs and restaurants full.

And they were treated to a sideshow as the supersonic jet Concorde landed at the nearby Airport, making a noise that even drowned out the music from the band.

Mr. Hayward counted down the last 30 seconds of the New Year and then a huge onion was raised electronically on the platform.

"It was a Bermuda onion,'' he said. "Time Square has its apple, we have an onion. The only difference is their apple goes down to celebrate the New Year, our onion goes up. When it reached the top it signalled the New Year.'' It also signalled the beginning of an impressive fireworks display. The band started playing again to keep the crowd entertained as they left the square.

Most people heeded the Police warning not to drink alcohol on the square, although some people had spilled out of local bars with their bottles.

Drivers also followed Police instructions about parking and there was little congestion.

Mr. Hayward reported no problems in the crowd. "Everybody had a good time and I really enjoyed it. It was very successful.

"It is the third time we have done this on New Year's Eve and it is our intention to continue having celebrations in this way.''