There was disappointment from a war veteran yesterday after the PLP election delight spilled over at the traditional Remembrance Day parade.

What is usually a solemn and dignified occasion in memory of those who sacrificed their lives in war, was marred for many by the over-enthusiastic crowds who cheered and applauded at the every movement of new Premier Jennifer Smith and her Cabinet.

Even the two minutes' silence was disturbed as some of the onlookers failed to keep their emotions in check.

But there was quiet during the sounding of the Last Post.

Later, Frank Farmer, president of the Bermuda War Veterans Association, expressed his disappointment at the lack of dignity shown during the ceremony.

"They weren't there for Remembrance Day, they were there for the leader of the Government,'' he said. "This is the way I feel -- it is a very solemn day and it means a lot to the veterans. I lost two brothers in World War Two.'' Over 80 war veterans marched from the City Hall car park to the Front Street Cenotaph, where they were inspected by Governor Thorold Masefield.

Later, after the ceremony had finished, PLP MPs mingled with the crowds -- some seeking autographs on the official Remembrance Day order of service cards.

The autograph hunting was shown on TV yesterday and further upset Mr. Farmer.

"I was very upset with the new MPs using the orders of service to give their autographs -- it was a disgusting display on Remembrance Day,'' said Mr.

Farmer. "I think it was very inappropriate.'' Mr. Farmer said the timing of the election was unfortunate but he and the other veterans didn't expect anything like that to happen.

"I think most of the veterans felt the same, it just didn't go with today's ceremony. It wasn't observed by all the members of the public the way I thought it would be.''