Chairperson for the Violence Prevention Alliance, Dr Elizabeth Ward, said she was overwhelmed with the support given to yesterday's hosting of a peace march.

Ward told The Gleaner that the initiative was first held on the anniversary of Bob Marley's birth, February 8, and has grown tremendously since its inauguration in 2005.

"I can't believe that persons have travelled all the way from Portland to be here today and it shows that the process of peace is alive and well. I thank the media for its support and all who worked to make it a success," Ward said.

A number of persons echoed Ward's sentiments.

"We think it's a noble gesture and it only goes to show that persons in and around the country still believe that peace is the way to go.

"It means, therefore, we need more persons to come on-board to support this, especially when there is a recession," remarked Louzan Suckie, a student at the University of the West Indies.

Kedejah Charlton of Happy Grove High School in Portland was among those who took the trip to the Police Officers' Club.

"There can't be too much peace and that's why we travelled so far. This is indeed a worthwhile activity," she said.

Hundreds of participants joined the march, which started on Hope Road and climaxed at the National Stadium car park. Among those who took part in the march were chairman of the VPA, Professor Barry Chevannes; Ardenne High School principal, Esther Tyson; and representatives of the Women's Media Watch.

Motorists tooted their horns and turned on their headlights to show solidarity.

rasbert.turner@gleanerjm.com