Huge crowds also participated in the Mash Day revelry along the coast the next day.

Addressing the gathering at the flag-raising ceremony, Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Navin Chandarpal called on all Guyanese to give true meaning to the theme for the Mash celebrations, `United are we in 2003'.

He said Essequibians have demonstrated and shown the true meaning of the Mash theme and the rest of Guyana should follow them in uniting and living as one people with one destiny.

Chandarpal pointed out that Guyana has passed through difficult times since the country became a Republic 33 years ago, but noted that Guyanese have achieved much.

According to the minister, some of the important planks to build the economy of the country are under severe threat from the international trade situation.

He pointed out that prices for rice and sugar are getting lower on the world market and called on Guyanese to compete harder.

He said the Government has tried to change ways of operations in the sectors to make them more competitive by improving the quality of the product and at the same time reducing production cost.

Before the national flag was hoisted, Chandarpal, accompanied by Regional Chairman, Mr. Alli Baksh and Deputy Police Commander of 'C' Division, Mr. Clement Ross inspected the Guard of Honour.

Essequibians were also treated to a grand cultural show which featured dances, skits, calypsos and steelband music from the New Opportunity Corps of Ondermeeming.

The colourful float parade and carnival style road jam on Sunday also attracted thousands.

As the floats and revellers slowly moved off from the Three Friends Bridge in the south and Dartmouth Village in the north, residents came out in their hundreds and lined the public road on both sides to watch the decorated floats and participants in their dazzling and beautiful Mash costumes.

The atmosphere around the town of Anna Regina was one of excitement as huge sets on trucks and other vehicles blared out music as revellers danced and partied together, bringing joy, peace and togetherness in the 'Cinderella County' and true meaning to the Mash theme `United are we in 2003'.

At the Anna Regina Community Centre ground, the crowds danced and partied together until late into the evening.

Many families also took the opportunity to use the day for picnics.

Among the floats on show was one from the Region Two Accounting Unit, which displayed a beautiful butterfly with revellers dressed in glittering costumes.

The Mainstay Youth Organisation and the Essequibo Technical Institute also thrilled Essequibians with their dazzling displays.