Some Barbadians who were returning home for the first time in many years were among those strolling in Queen’s Park on Christmas morning.
As the Royal Barbados Police Force Band entertained with songs of the season, they soaked up the atmosphere among others parading their finest clothing at the traditional gathering.
Beverly Gibson, a former resident of Deacons Road, St Michael, was back in Barbados for Christmas for the first time in 47 years. She was one of the members of the Canadian posse who included economist Neville Grant, a Combermerian and former prolific cricketer, his son Peter and Beverly Shapiro.
Also visiting from Canada was Dr Barbara Trieloff, formerly of Dover, Christ Church, whose father was a prominent physician from Bay Street. She has now become a regular visitor to Barbados and recently assisted in editing a book in Toronto commemorating the 50th anniversary of Independence.
Rudolph Holder, who served the police band for 45 years before retiring, was back for his annual visit from the United States.
“I enjoy seeing my former counterparts making people happy through their music,” said Holder.
Pastor Calvin Sealy, of Coming of Jesus Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York, was home for Christmas for the first time in 25 years.
It was Dian Duke’s second Christmas visit after ten years. She said she would be planning her vacation early so she could return to Barbados.
“After living in New York for many years, this is my first visit here in ten years,” said Sheila Thorne Grant, who was accompanied by husband Victor Grant.
It was also a special occasion for Brenda Belgrave. With an endearing smile, she revealed that after living in New York for 40 years, she returned this Christmas with Neville Belgrave, her husband of 54 years, to celebrate her 75th birthday.
Canadians Chris and Debbie Kay were guests of former Grantley Adams International Airport manager Pat Callender.
“We’ve been coming to this beautiful island quite often at Christmas time for the past 30 years,” said Chris. (CJ)
