THE 'Main Big Lime' held on Main Street, Georgetown, Sunday was a success, Trade, Tourism and Industry Minister, Mr. Manzoor Nadir said yesterday, noting that it was dubbed "the premiere lime for 2001".

He said he was pleased with the response and support from the general public and the effort by officials in preparation for the event.

Nadir was also pleased with the manner in which those in attendance conducted themselves given the limited reports of incidents.

Thousands joined in the fun as the ministry's tourism promotional showcase got under way around mid-day giving Guyanese and tourists the opportunity to view and purchase various indigenous items of art, craft, local dishes, clothing, footwear, decorations, jewellery and a host of fresh flowers among others which were on display.

They were entertained by several steel bands and musical sets, all reflecting Guyana's rich cultural diversity. Several local eco-tourist agencies also showcased the facilities and services they offer.

The ministries of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and Culture, Youth and Sports had booths depicting the vast and wide variety of flora and fauna and the cultural composition and development of Guyana.

By nightfall several of the booths were dismantled probably to make way for the thousands who came out for the night lime.

Nadir said there has been some criticism that there were a limited number of booths out in the latter part, but he explained that many booths were out earlier in the day but Main Street was less busy with activity.

However, as the lime got going at around 19:00 hrs with the music, food, and drinks and as the crowd grew, several of the booths were taken down as the focus was then shifted to entertainment while those out enjoyed drinks with friends.

"That was massive", he stated.

He said the event was intended to showcase the nation's art and craft and tourism products and at the same time producing an atmosphere where Guyanese can enjoy themselves in unity.

Both objectives were been accomplished, he said.

He said the event was also organised to be held in the latter part of the year to cater for those visiting for the holidays.

He expressed special thanks to Banks DIH, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Ansa McAl, the Police, the West End Club and the City Council for their clean-up efforts and those who set up booths depicting Guyana's products.

He had noted that the focus of the 'Main Big Lime' was to get Guyanese into a spirit of unity and festivity and lauded the private sector for its support in staging the event, adding that the sector was instrumental in the funding and organising of it, unlike the previous years when the ministry did the bulk of funding and organising.

For next year's event he plans to make it bigger, more creative and innovative and perhaps at another location.