To escape the glaring lights of the city, families, friends and lovers braved the winding 45-minute drive to end 2007 and begin 2008 'on top of the world' at the picturesque Strawberry Hill Hotel and Spa in Irish Town.

With a bonfire blazing in the backyard and tables illuminated by floating candles and Home Sweet Home lamps, guests enjoyed pepperpot soup, Rosemary-rubbed leg of lamb stuffed with Jamaican spinach and feta, roasted grey snapper stuffed with market-fresh sea-food plus Caribbean citrus-roasted chicken and sweet potato salad.

Guests were kept entertained by Lloyd Parkes and We The People Band. After an entertaining hour-long stint, they were joined by upcoming artiste, Tanice Morrison. A very powerful singer, she roused the crowd with timeless classics and contemporary hits. Minutes before midnight, the legendary Ken Boothe took to the stage. The crowd immediately gravitated towards him as he wowed them with his hit, Everything I Own, before 'counting up' (as he put it) to midnight. Glasses raised, lips locked and arms encircled loved ones as they said hello to 2008.

And as glasses clinked, in the city below the news spread. Fireworks from Frenchmen, private parties and homes lit up sporadically, providing a great light show for those up looking down on the dawn of a New Year.