THOUSANDS of people braved the morning showers to herald the island’s 49th anniversary of Independence.
The crisp uniforms of the armed units of Barbados’ protective services, as well as the colourful liveries of unarmed detachments from a number of non-governmental organisation, youth groups and semi military agencies, were contrasted against the blue and yellow clad spectators who lined the parade square at the Garrison Savannah.
Governor-General Sir Elliott Belgrave inspected the troops and was then treated to a march past by the groups.
Acting Prime Minister Richard Sealy then took the salute, outside Government Headquarters, as the detachments made their way into the historic city of Bridgetown where they were dismissed. (HLE)