Castel Matters ISSUE 21 SUMMER ‘19 / AUTUMN '19 1
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EDITORIAL
Editor’s Note
global charity called The White Lion Foundation. Please have look through the website at the work they do (thewhitelion.foundation). The Design Team were fortunate enough to go to the launch of the charity just before Liberation Day, held in Palace of Westminster which was privilege.
Justin Guilbert, We hope that you had a good Donkeylogic Liberation Day, and that you enjoy Welcome to the 6th edition of Castel Matters. Already half way through 2019, Donkeylogic have been very busy with a number of projects. The main project has been branding and building the website for a
what we hope will be a lovely summer so we can spend time on Castel’s beaches! If you would like to contribute to, or advertise in, the next issue please contact us on 733300 or email castelmatters@donkeylogic.com.
Contents
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CASTEL
Welcome from the Dean Mike Fooks,
Dean of the Douzaine The Castel Parish continues to be a hive of activity as we approach what will hopefully be another good summer so that we can all enjoy the range of activities which are planned by various bodies and organisations. The Liberation celebrations have just passed but the Douzaine are looking towards the 75th anniversary and hope that parishioners will join them in making these special. More details are included within this magazine and if you would like to be involved in helping make this a special time please get in touch – we welcome any contributions and help. The parish meeting approved the remede (budget) for the coming year in March. The Constables and Douzaine are pleased that we have seen a reduction in the overall rate. It is felt that this was important given
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the introduction of the ÂŁ85 waste charge, together with the charge on black sacks which, like other charges, affect all householders. The parish rate now covers the collection charge, that now of course involves black-bag, blue and clear bags, bottles and food waste. We thank you for your co-operation and understanding in making this transition, in the main, run smoothly in our parish, and thanks our staff for their understanding and patience over this busy period. The Constables and Douzaine are constantly looking at initiatives and ideas to continue improving the parish. By the nature of their desire to serve the Castel they have ideas and work tirelessly to achieve this on a variety of fronts. However, this is your parish, so if you have any ideas, or would like to help, please contact one of us, all our details are contained within the magazine.
CASTEL
Castel Douzaine Photographic Competition John Cook, Castel Constable
The Parish photography competition closed on 31st March 2019 with entries having been received from a broad spectrum of photographers ranging from children to pensioners, occasional snappers to the keen, photo-hobbyist.
moody portrayal of the pagoda at Saumarez Park. Eric Ferbrache for an attractive sea and shorescape from Albecq to Grandes Rocques. Marc Dyke for an evocative portrayal of groynes on Vazon beach. The winning photographs can be viewed on Castel Parish website. These and other photographs are to be on display in the Douzaine Room.
All entrants submitted photographs that captured for them the character of Castel. Deciding upon just three winners was difficult for the Constables and Douzeniers. Each photograph was personal and judgement was based not just on technical merit, but on the essence of the parish that it portrayed. Entrants should feel proud of their contributions and we would like to thank all participants for taking part and so ably illustrating the diverse character of Castel. The winners were: Oliver Craig (Under 16) with a 5 5
CANTON DOUZENIERS
Canton 3
Vingtaine des Queritez
John Webster 252952
John Cook 253705
Canton 4
Vingtaine des Grands Moulins
Mike Fooks 255191
Rhiannon Cook 253705
Canton 5
Vingtaine des Grantez
Nigel Acton 255999
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Bob Falla 256856
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5
Canton 2
Vingtaine des Houmets
Kelvin Hudson 252363
Jonathan Beausire 07781 422927
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Canton 1
3
Vingtaine de L’Eglise
1
David Ozanne 252904
6
Bob Marquis 254473
Canton 6
Vingtaine des Pelleys
Richard Graham 254784
David Chester 255352
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CASTEL
Summer: the views of Cobo (and activities taking place) and the west coast from Le Guet never fails to delight. Autumn: Saumarez Park and walking through bronzed fallen leaves before going to the cafe for a hot chocolate and chat. Winter: back to Le Guet where, wrapped up against the bracing winds, one can view the spectacular waves crashing against the sea wall.
Meet Your Douzeniers & Deputies Castel Constables
We asked three of Castel’s Douzeniers four questions. Here are responses from Jonathan Beausire, Bob Marquis and Rhiannon Cook. 1.
What is your favourite part of the parish?
JB: The Red Rocks at Albecq. BM: Cobo. The area provides a strong community spirit and the views across to The Guet and Grandes Rocques are wonderful. The sunset over Grosse Rocque in my opinion is unbeatable. RC: I am spoilt for choice so my selections are based on the four seasons. Spring: Ruette Tranquil with their high banks bursting with the blossom of Daffodils, Primroses, Celandines, Violets and many other flora.
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2.
What would you most like to preserve about the parish?
JB: The open, rural areas and beautiful sandy beaches. BM: We have many areas in the parish that must be preserved such as Saumarez Park, St Germain, beaches and Green Lanes. Parts of our heritage must also be preserved such as the 19 Abreuveurs which The Parish currently maintain. RC: Without doubt, the open, green spaces - some with very special flora. Fort Hommet, Saumarez Park and the Heritage Walk and Le Guet.
3.
Why do you think the parish matters to the rest of the island?
JB: Because of its diverse mix of green fields, quiet lanes and beautiful lanes. BM: The Parish responsibilities have reduced with The States taking more control, the Parish system remains to assist Parishioners and protect our Island Heritage. RC: I cannot speak for islanders but the sheer popularity of areas like Le Guet, Saumarez Park, Fort Hommet, Grantez Mill and the quiet lanes speaks volumes.
4.
What is your favourite thing to do on a sunny, summery day?
JB: Sit on the grass at Grantez Mill and enjoy the view. BM: My favourite thing to do on a sunny Sunday afternoon is to potter in the garden ending with a family BBQ. RC: Lets say summer evening (especially after tending and cropping our vegetables). To sit in our conservatory with family and friends with a glass of fizz watching the stunning sunset. Nowhere else compares.
Castel’s Deputies Castel have five elected deputies. Here you can find their names and contact details.
Chris Green
Richard Graham
Barry Paint
254784 / 07781 101277
richard.graham@deputies.gov.gg
Mark Dorey
252743 / 07781 152743 mark.dorey@deputies.gov.gg
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christopher.green@deputies.gov.gg
254502 / 07781 154502 barry.paint@deputies.gov.gg
Jonathan Le Tocq
07781 152810
jonathan.letocq@deputies.gov.gg
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CASTEL
Liberation Day 2020 Plans
peels) for food, drinks like tea and even substitute cigarettes. Anyone with a pet had to keep them inside; otherwise they might appear on someone else’s dinner plate.
The parish is proposing to hold a display for liberation 2020 in order to celebrate 75 years of freedom. We are looking for exhibits for display and for inclusion in the spring edition of the magazine (which will be returned). This is likely to be mostly in the form of photographs, but could be anything.
What kinds of entertainment were enjoyed? I can think of family bands, with one person on the accordion, accompanied by someone with 2 spoons banging on their knee. There could be a drummer, perhaps banging on a flimsy cupboard wall with the extra sound of items being shaken from the shelves behind. Family games were played, I can remember wandering round the room with people calling ‘sit be me, sit by me’; and another one called something like ‘Oo mat’. I can’t remember the details of these and other games.
Of course there is a large selection of German constructed buildings and other sites, but much more went on. The islander’s way of living was already very different to that of today, and this was made very much more difficult because of the occupation.
Transport was difficult, and unless you had an essential occupation, you could not get petrol for a car, and when bikes wheels got punctured, novel means had to be found in order to get around. Did you have difficulty travelling on the right hand side of the road?
We would like stories about life during the occupation. Food shortages were acute, with rationing already, and were very much worse when the islands were cut off. Do you have any recipes which became essential (including potato
Was it difficult for living? A lot of people in houses had to go to the bottom of the garden to use the toilet, and a po had to be kept under the bed. Washing clothes was done by hand and children would help their mums to put sheets through
Dave Wylie
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a mangle (mind your fingers). Bath time for the children was in a metal bath in front of the fire, and if you were the youngest you used the other children’s dirty water. Electricity and gas (remember the mantels) were in short supply and supplies were sometimes cut off. Coal was in short supply and you even needed to ask if you wished to cut wood off trees. Was your school life interfered with? Did you have to move to a different building, and have to learn German? There were a number of events when children (usually boys) did naughty things to upset the soldiers. Even adults made things
such as crystal radio sets. Could you make one today? Was there interaction with the German forces? When I am walking through the parish today, most people cheerfully say hello with a smile. If walking in a lane during the occupation, would I have felt like a traitor if I were to say hello to a smiling German? Have you any memories of the occupying forces being cruel or kind? If you have any memories, or any stories from your parents or grandparents, we would love to hear them. Please contact Wendy at the douzaine room.
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CASTEL
The Future of the Douzaines & Douzaines’ Council
Until the end of the First World the contact most Guernsey people would have had with government would have been with the douzaines as they controlled the parish primary school and only a few children had access to a secondary curriculum until later.
Dick Taylor Following the Second World War Although an old Tortevite for many years I do have a long affinity with the Catel. I taught at Les Beaucamps Secondary School for the first fourteen years of my life on the Island, I lived in the parish for four years and only moved after marrying a Catel girl at the Parish Church and whisking her off to a building plot in Torteval. It was when teaching at Les Beaucamps I first came into contact with douzeniers and came to appreciate their support for our students and learned from them the nature of the homes they came from and the environment that nurtured them. Later, having moved into a more Central role at the Education Department I widened my contact to most of the Island’s Douzaines and came to value their advice and deep understanding of the varied backgrounds from which Bailiwick students came. 12 12
and the deprivation it caused, people demanded a higher standard of living having sacrificed so much; the Occupation and service in the forces intensified these demands by Guernsey folk. Such expectations could only be met by a huge investment in public funding that could only be met by central government. And so, power shifted from local government to the centre, leaving the douzaines with minimal responsibilities, culminating in the loss of douzaine representation in the States. However, life rarely remains static and in Western Democracies over the last couple of decades or so there has been a rising tide of criticism that central governments have become insensitive to the particular needs of the regions and local communities. In the U.K. this has manifested itself in calls for devolved governments, the dissemination of powers to regional capitals and elected local mayors. In Guernsey the situation is more confused with
dissatisfaction seemingly pulling in opposite directions. The referendum supporting Island wide voting could result in weakening further the authority of the smaller parishes in favour of the larger parishes whilst local communities make vociferous objections to central planning decisions. These issues, together with increasing pressure on the States from the uncertainty over Brexit, responding to an increasingly globalised economy and dealing with the positive and negative aspects of digital technology, point to it being an appropriate time for a fresh debate on the respective roles of central government and the douzaines. It could be to everyone’s advantage if certain areas of government were devolved to the first tier. Increasing numbers of professionally qualified professionals are seeing service
to their local community more realistic and attractive than entering the ranks of paid politicians as States’ Deputies and would be well equipped to deal with more complex matters than inspecting hedges and ditches as important as that duty is for community relations. Topics that would benefit from being devolved include planning decisions that would impact significantly on a particular community and supporting the E.S.C.’s policy to establish the local governance of schools. If the Douzaines were to take on a wider role successfully than they and Central Government and its Civil Servants must be able to trust one another and be capable of working in harmony. Douzeniers could no longer see their responsibilities as being solely to their parishioners but to their parishioners as Islanders 13 13
and members of a global economic community. Should the States be persuaded that working more closely with the Douzaines was to their advantage and would improve the quality of governance, then they could not see it as a means of providing services on the cheap. If the Douzaines accepted greater responsibility without the funding to employ professional, administrative support then the scheme would fail. A second component for success would be having an effective Central Douzaine Council to undertake with confidence, communication between each parish and the centre. If Guernsey is to succeed in an increasingly unstable world it will need to find ways to adapt the institutions, traditions and experience that brought our
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community to where it is today, to meet the challenges of the future. Clinging to the past in the belief we can preserve it in the future will lead to failure and decline. The solutions our parents found to the problems of their day just couldn’t work in our world and certainly not in our children’s. The concept of governing a parish by its inhabitants electing members to serve for a limited period and then giving others a chance is as relevant today as it was centuries ago, however giving one person a staff and calling him “Constable” and expecting him or her to enforce The Douzaine’s will, wouldn’t be of much use in the enforcement of speed restrictions on the Vazon coast road on a Saturday night.
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COMMUNITY
‘En Plein Air’ with Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club Liz Potter
Amateur artists across Guernsey are crossing their fingers for a warm and sunny day on Tuesday 18th June when the annual Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club’s ‘En Plein Air’ Painting competition will be taking place. This year the competition will be held in Saumarez Park. Anyone, of any artistic ability over the age of 16 may take part and for three days following the competition the winning piece along with all the other entries will be displayed in the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden in a special exhibition for the public to enjoy. Painting ‘En Plein Air’ has seen a big revival in recent years and the Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club have been delighted to see visitors to the island as well as locals taking part each year in their competition. Any media (paper, canvas etc) not bigger than 70cm x 70cm can be 16 16
used and collages, textile work etc are all welcome as well as traditional painting techniques such as watercolour and oils etc. The main criteria is that the work must be created on the day from any outside location within the grounds of Saumarez Park. The challenge of working En Plein Air is that you literally have to deal with whatever weather conditions you are presented with on the day. During last year’s competition artists had to cope with rain showers which caused paint to run whereas in 2017 the competition fell on the hottest day of the year when paint was drying almost as soon as it hit the canvas. This is all part of the fun of painting outside and it is often necessary for artists to adapt their styles and techniques in order to cope with the conditions on the day. This year’s entries will be judged by representatives from Floral
Guernsey, The National Trust of Guernsey and The Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden. The winner will receive a cash prize of £250 and have their name inscribed on the coveted Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club En Plein Air Trophy which will presented to them by the club’s Patron, Lady Corder on the opening night of the club’s Summer Exhibition held at Elizabeth College in St Peter Port (July 26th - 4th August). If you would like to take part simply take whatever media you plan to use (canvas board etc) to The Cart Room (situated in the Courtyard by the Guernsey Folk & Costume Museum) between 9.30-10am on Tuesday 18th June where it will be officially stamped and an entry fee of £5 per media will be taken (£3 per item for Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club members). You may have as many items stamped as you like but only one finished piece per person can be submitted for judging. Once registered you are free to paint
from any vantage point within the grounds of Saumarez Park until 4.30-5pm when your finished entry should be taken to the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden (just behind the Cart Room). The exhibition of entries will be open to the public from Wednesday 19th June to Friday 21st June 10am4pm daily where visitors will have the opportunity to view all the entries and vote on their own personal favourite. Sarnia Arts & Crafts Club organises many events, competitions, art workshops and demonstrations throughout the year for their members. It is a very sociable club for anyone who has an interest in the visual arts. For more information about the club, the En Plein Air Competition or any of their forthcoming events you can visit the club’s Facebook Page or contact Liz Potter on 01481 725004.
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COMMUNITY
About The Guernsey Probus Club
arrive by 12.15 to gather in the bar beforehand. The Luncheon is a three course set meal followed by coffee (at a most reasonable cost) arranged by the Hotel. Special dietary requests can be arranged with prior notice. Dress is Jacket and Tie.
Hubertus “Huub” Lau, Hon. Secretary The first Probus Club came into being in February 1966, and was founded in March 1976. Probus is an association of autonomous clubs throughout Britain, Ireland and the rest of the world. The word is an abbreviation of PROfessional and BUSiness, but membership is not restricted to these two groups. The Guernsey Probus Club is open to all retired or semi-retired men and is in essence a Social Club. It is a nonsectarian, non-political organisation, and is run by six elected members. The aim is to get together for a relaxed meal, in quiet surroundings, with a group of like-minded men from differing backgrounds. We meet on the first Monday in the month (except for Bank Holidays, when the meeting is held on the following Monday) for Luncheon at La Villette Hotel in St. Martin. Our meeting time is normally 12.30 for 12.45. However, many of us 18 18
The cost of becoming a member is kept to the bare minimum: There is a Joining Fee of £15, which covers the cost of a name badge, which is worn at Lunch (it avoids the need for introductions!) and a Probus Lapel Badge plus an annual Subscription of £10 which covers the administration costs. We have three events per year when wives/partners are most welcome: 1. In June or July we have an Afternoon Tea 2. In December, the ladies join us for our festive meal 3. In February we have a ladies night, which is a black tie event
and normally held at the Royal Guernsey Golf Club The Club do not fund raise. There is real pressure these days to help the many worthy charities, but we feel it best for members to support those of their choice in their own private way. However, on occasion we have used excess Club funds to make a donation to a charity nominated by the family of a deceased member or made donations to other local charities.
Call: 233207 Email: handklau@cwgsy.net He will arrange for them to attend one of our meetings as a guest. They can then be invited to join and at a subsequent meeting will be expected to give a very brief rĂŠsumĂŠ of their career.
We are always pleased to welcome new members and should anybody be interested, they are invited to contact the Secretary, Hubertus Lau:
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COMMUNITY
Energy Saving Tips For Your Home This Spring Guernsey Electricity
As the cost of electricity is set to rise and with the warmer months ahead it’s worth considering a few simple tips that will help with managing your energy consumption at home. Turn It Down Or Off Switching off electrical appliances such as televisions, DVD players, game consoles, mobile phone chargers and other appliances on standby may seem insignificant but if they’re switched on it’s costing you money. Likewise, you shouldn’t notice any difference from your thermostat being turned down a degree or two or lights in empty rooms being switched off, but your bank balance will. Purchase An Electricty Monitor An electricity monitor displays the energy you are using instantly both in electricity and cost units. It’s a useful tool for tracking and understanding in real-time which
appliances could be turned down or switched off to lower your energy use. Switch to LEDs Another simple trick is LED light bulbs. LEDs use 90 percent less energy than the old style, incandescent bulbs. You could switch the most used bulbs in your house straight away and replace the rest as and when they burn out. Choose Appliances Wisely It’s wise to take your time when purchasing new appliances and look out for those labelled energy efficient. The Energy Saving Trust provides advice on different energy ratings for varying types of appliances whether you need a new microwave, television or fridgefreezer. Insulate Your Home Unless it’s a new build, around a quarter of the heat generated in your home could be lost through draughts around doors and windows, gaps in the floor and even through the chimney. Ensuring windows and roofs are properly padded with quality insulation is a simple way to protect your home from the cold. Suitable sealant, insulating strips, wooden beading and even rolled up pieces of newspaper should also help retain the warm air and keep your electricity bill to a minimum. 21 21
COMMUNITY
Book Review: A Peep Behind The Screens Beryl S Ozanne
The book tells the story of five years in the life of a young Guernsey woman and her experience as a nurse during the occupation of the island by the German Army. Just 21 years old, a part time St John Ambulance Cadet, living with her widowed father and working as a shop assistant she was recruited by the Guernsey Board of Health at the start of the occupation of the island by the German Army. Helping to fill the vacancies left by the departure to the UK of more qualified English nursing staff wishing to avoid the risk to themselves should the island have been invaded. Trained and guided by the staunch and dedicated doctors, matrons, sisters and staff nurses many of them English who remained to keep the islands medical services running through those very traumatic years. So many islanders owe so much to those who willingly chose to 22 22
stay and serve the islanders who remained during the occupation. Nursing the civilian population, it chronicles her work and the hospital staffs attempts to improve the situation of the patients, the privations suffered personally and managing the shortages of medicines, dressings and food. Rationing existed throughout the occupation but became worse after the June 1944 invasion of France and the island was totally cut off from the French mainland. The islanders were near to starvation until just before Liberation in May 1945 when the Red Cross ship SS Vega arrived in December 1944 with food parcels from Canada.
It describes her life from just prior to the occupation until finally after five long years the war ended and the island was liberated by the British army. It was not all fun and games with lots of laughter, nothing could be further from the truth, but she has tried to convey the lighter side of things.
As Guernsey is approaching the 75th anniversary of the Occupation and Beryl suffered with Osteoporosis, especially during her later years, her daughters have had the book reprinted in her memory and profits from its sale will be donated to the Guernsey Brands of the National Osteoporosis Society.
Written out in longhand over a number of years and first published by Beryl with the help of her cousins in 1994, who typed up her many documents, prior to it being printed.
Copies of the book may be obtained by emailing berylsbook@gmail.com or calling 255762.
A charming, energetic and very brave lady she unfortunately passed away age 81 in 2001.
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COMMUNITY
Update from Cobo Community Centre
groups and educational and social meetings. There’s also a preschool on weekdays and Rainbows, Brownies and Guides regularly use the Halls and the surrounding area of Le Guet. Weekends are often busy with adult and children’s parties and charitable fund raising events.
Jo May, Over the past year we have held After many years of enthusiastic fundraising, Cobo Community Centre opened for business in September 2015. The centre is now a hugely popular venue for a wide range of activities and “Guet Togethers” from early in the morning until the sun has gone down and into the nightime. So many people of all ages in the Castel community and beyond come to our Centre for so many reasons including fitness classes, meditation, yoga and wellness
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wedding receptions, and private parties and with the views through Le Guet and our lovely coastline, we do provide a stunning backdrop! The aim of the centre is to continue to provide a welcoming space for all users, ranging from St Matthew’s Church to the wider community. Carolyn Le Maitre is now our parttime Cobo Community Centre Manager, she took up her role at the beginning of February and has since been learning the ropes from Tracey Wallis who has been voluntary Manager since the centre opened. This means that there is now
someone here at the Cobo Community Centre at least four days a week and Carolyn has spent time getting to know the variety of groups, classes and users of the centre. Carolyn lives on Grandes Rocques Road with her husband Andy and youngest son Jack, her older son Antony is a Tree surgeon. Andy and Carolyn had their wedding blessing at St Matthew’s Church 25 years ago and both boys were also christened at the Church. The family have lived in the Castel for almost all of that time.
a booking for your event, which will then be confirmed by Carolyn, who can advise you and answer any questions you may have, this way ensuring that whatever you have planned will go smoothly at our lovely venue. You can call us on 257032, email us at admin@cobocommunitycentre. com and follow us on Facebook (CoboCommunityCentre). We’d love to hear from you!
The Cobo Community Centre offers a wide range of function rooms and Halls and along with a state of the art kitchen, all of which are available for hire all year round. To find out more about the centre you can go to our website cobocommunitycentre.com where you’ll find images of all the Halls and rooms for hire, along with a timetable of events, and you can also request
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OUTDOORS
Island Dog Training Club Obedience Show Jackie Mauger, Committee Member
The first weekend in May saw the Island Dog Training Club hold its first outside obedience show of the year, situated at the back of Le Friquet Garden Centre. For those who are not ‘au fait’ with competitive dog obedience, the best way I can describe it is “the dog equivalent that dressage is for horses” - and if you do not know what dressage is, Google search “Carl Hester” who is from Sark! Joking aside, the origins of competitive obedience comes from dog working trials, which is the civilian equivalent to police dog work) many years ago and has developed over the years into what it is today. The basic idea is to publicly showcase the training you have achieved with your dog - and, with the right reward based training methods, any breed or crossbreed can take part - as can any owner. 26 26
The judges for the show were Wendy Birch and Jane Wood, who both travelled over from England. Both Wendy and Jane have competed and judged at Crufts and are very experienced handlers and trainers. It was an eventful couple of days as we saw a variety of weather conditions, from a cold and wet, wintery Saturday morning, to a welcoming 11 degrees later that afternoon when the sun came out and we were blessed with fine weather for the rest of the weekend - if a little blustery, which only made the competition a bit more interesting. As always, the show was well supported with over 30 dogs from both Guernsey and Jersey competing in an array of classes. There was strong competition between the islands, as always, with a wide variety of breeds competing
in the classes and all vying for the certificates, rosettes and trophies on offer. The weekend of competing was rounded off nicely with the aftershow dinner at Le Friquet Hotel, Lobster & Grill, Restaurant where a fabulous meal was had by all and the Special Awards were presented. If you would like to know more about competing with your dog, would like to help and watch at our next show or are collecting a new puppy some time soon and would like some help, please contact the Island Dog Training Club for more information or have a look on our website: idtc.co.uk
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OUTDOORS
Donkey Day
May Day Bank Holiday at the Castel Fairfield. Crowds of people visited throughout the day, setting up picnic blankets on the grass and tucking into barbecue food (which sold out in record time!), tea and homemade cakes, and other delicious treats from farmers market stalls.
Jennifer Workman, There were plenty of things to amuse the little ones with games Event Organiser run by Little Buttons Nursery, The sixth annual Castel Church Donkey Day was a roaring success with a record number of people attending this traditional family event. The organisers, stall holders and volunteers alike were blessed with lovely sunny weather on the
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face-painting by Joni, as well as plate smashing and coconut shy games that drew big crowds. The Youth Commission were also there making milk carton wallets with the children. The donkeys, goats and other livestock from Rodney Dyke’s farm were another highlight of the
event. A huge thanks goes to him and his family of helpers for bringing them down to the fête year on year. Live entertainment included an acoustic set from Mick Le Huray and traditional Guernsey dancing from Belles and Broomsticks. A new addition to the line-up were B Creative whose street dancing teams of all ages really rocked the Fairfield from the word go! The grand raffle was very popular with over 2,000 people entering the draw to win prizes* of £500 cash, 2 return flights to Gatwick with Aurigny and a trip to Herm with a meal at the Mermaid. As well as raising money for the Castel Church, donations from the profits will also be made to the Youth Commission, The Tumaini Fund and The Donkey Sanctuary. It was a spectacular day with so
much going on which was only made possible by the tireless effort of the church congregation, friends and family and parish volunteers, so lots of thank you’s all round! A special mention must be given to the generous land owners who provided extra parking space in their fields to make accessing the event as easy as possible. And of course, to everyone who supported the event, whether you helped, attended or just bought a raffle ticket, it all contributes to making the Castel Church Donkey Day a successful community event. * Castel Church Donkey Day Grand Raffle winning ticket numbers are: 1st Prize (£500 cash) - 1960. 2nd Prize (Aurigny flights) - 1157. 3rd Prize (boat & meal in Herm) - 0092. All winners have been contacted. (Image credit to Jason Friend) 29 29
If you’re a local person, thinking of forming a local company for a local business, call us. We’re local too, and we can help.
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740300 albecq.com
OUTDOOR
Outdoor Yoga Classes
Admittedly, if you suffer with hay fever or are sensitive to the wind and/or sun, then an indoor class is best. Many students enjoy the opportunity to escape from being indoors and experience the many benefits of breathing fresh and feeling a connection to nature. It can be a very grounding, energising and uplifting experience.
Emma Despres, Beinspired Yoga This summer I have teamed up with The sun is shining and the temperatures are finally rising – it must be time for outdoor yoga classes to start again! It was in 2006 that I first introduced the yoga ‘class on the grass’ idea for charity and students loved it! Here was an opportunity to experience both the many benefits of practicing yoga and being out in nature. Since then, outdoor classes on Guernsey have grown in popularity.
La Grande Mare to hold outdoor classes on their rooftop or on the back lawn if it is windy. All are welcome including beginners and older children. There is no need to book, just turn up. Starting 5 June: Wednesdays, weekly. 6:00 - 7:00pm Starting 8 June: Saturdays, every other week. 8:30 - 9:45am £12 adult drop-in, £8 for LGM members. Vouchers are available.
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OUTDOOR
something other than St Peter Port.
Activities With Outdoor Guernsey Antony Ford Parker, Outdoor Guernsey
As you know we are very busy down at the Guet end of Cobo with kayaking and paddleboarding. Cobo is a wonderful bay to explore on a low tide and we run both guided trips and hire kayaks/paddleboards from this location. Last year we started offering guided kayak trips to Cruise liners and the feedback has been exceptional. We pick them up in our minibuses and bring them out to Cobo for the kayaking, they love it! So nice for them to see
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Another great resource is the Guet pine forest. It is especially nice for children to experience a woodland setting and we often bring small groups here for bushcraft or forest schools type activities. There is something very special about learning about woodlands and rare to have such accessible space like this in Guernsey. Another great activity is the abseil infront of the watchtower in the Guet. The views from up there are incredible and although it takes time and a lot of skill to set up abseiling from the top of the rock is an experience that people that have done it will remember for ever. That first step backwards over the edge takes a lot of courage! For more information, go to: outdoorguernsey.gg
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YOUTH
Les Beaucamps High School Dee Chalker, Admin Assistant
The School Showcase, now an annual event, is a great opportunity for pupils to put forward any performance work they are particularly proud of. We had so many fantastic performers this year with a wide variety of acts including poi, acting, dancing, musical theatre, singing, choir and our own resident band. The audience were treated to a great night of entertainment, led solely by the pupils themselves, which included running the sound and lights. Our Year 7 students had the privilege of an interactive hour with visiting author Sophie Anderson, who published her first book “The House With Chicken Legs”, last year. The students were incredibly enthusiastic, asking and answering lots of questions. Sophie’s visit was brought to us through the Guernsey Literary Festival.
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Our Year 7’s are enjoying the recent warm weather and seeing the results of their hard work during Wednesday lunchtimes. They have been growing chilli plants, strawberries, beetroot and lettuce. It was great to see so many former students, teachers and friends of the school, as Les Beaucamps celebrated its 60th Birthday in March. The Open Day saw visitors coming to look around the school and view displays of photographs, news stories and other memorabilia. Many stayed to catch up with old friends and colleagues. Some of the visitors remembered the school opening in 1959. This year, the Drama Department and KS3 Drama club entered the Guernsey Eisteddfod for the first time as a club and it was quite an experience! Two of our Year 9 boys performed a comedy duologue
“Pain Scale” and were awarded a “Highly Commended” certificate. Our next act, Animal Farm, was a very challenging play text, especially for the younger year groups. However, they performed with professionalism and maturity in such a difficult piece and scored an excellent 87/100 and were also awarded the shield. The LBHS Choir also took part, performing two songs, “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day and a tricky harmony piece called
“Is It Music” by Nick Page. The adjudicator was very complimentary of the choir and they received a “Highly Commended” certificate and were awarded the Violet Grace Trophy. Students are working hard on this year’s production of “ANNIE” the Musical. The level of dedication, enthusiasm and talent on stage, will make this a spectacular show. Performances will be on 2nd, 3rd & 4th of July and tickets will be available after May half term.
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YOUTH
Guiding is for girls to make friends, learn skills and have fun.
Scouts & Guides
Please note these are only during term time. For more information, go to: girlguiding.org.gg Guides:
The Scout movement is ideal for energetic youngsters who want to try their hand at canoeing, camping and helping the community. Please note these are only during term time. 8th Guernsey (Reliant Sea Scout) Group: Le Douit Baudin Beavers: Mondays, 5:30 - 6:45pm Scouts: Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8:00pm Cubs: Fridays, 7:00 - 9:00pm
Mondays: 6:15 - 8:15pm, Cobo Community Centre Wednesdays: 6:30 - 8:00pm, Cobo Community Centre Wednesdays: 6:15 - 8:00pm, Desliles Church Hall
Brownies: Mondays: 5:45 - 7:30pm, Cobo Community Centre Tuesdays: 6:15 - 7:45pm, Desliles Church Hall
Call Robert Prigent on 241696
Fridays: 5:45 - 7:45pm, Cobo Community Centre
12th Guernsey Group: Les Beaucamps High School (Maurice Lihou Building)
Rainbows:
Beavers: Mondays, 5:30 - 6:45pm Scouts: Wednesdays, 7:00 - 9:00pm Cubs: Fridays, 6:30 - 8:00pm
Call Eric Grimsley on 255229 or email e.grimsley@cwgsy.net
Mondays: 4:15 - 5:45pm, Cobo Community Centre Wednesdays: 5:00 - 6:00pm, Cobo Community Centre Fridays: 4:15 - 5:45pm, Cobo Community Centre 37 37
SPIRITUAL
Parish Service Times
Cobo Mission Hall Sunday: 10:00 Sunday School 11:00 The Lord’s Table 18:30 Gospel’s Service Tuesday: 14:00 Women’s Meeting Thursday: 19:30 Prayer & Bible Study
St. Matthew’s, Cobo Sunday: 08:00 Book of Common Prayer 11:00 Eucharist Ste. Marie du Castel Sunday: 09:30 Eucharist Wednesday: 10:00 Holy Communion Vazon Church (Elim Pentecostal) Sunday: 10:45 Morning Service 18:00 Evening Meeting Tuesday: 13:00 Parent and Toddler Friday: 18:00 Acorn Club (3-7yrs) 18:00 Transformers (8-11yrs) 19:15 Vibe (11yrs+) 38 38
Friday: 19:00 Youth Night Delisles Methodist Sunday: 10:30 Sunday Worship St Joseph & St Mary Sunday: 08:00 Sunday Mass 10:30 Sunday Mass 18:30 Sunday Mass Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 07:30 Mass Tuesday/Thursday: 09:30 Mass Our Lady Star of the Sea Sunday: 09:30 Sunday Mass 18:30 Sunday Mass
Monday: 12:00 Mass Saturday: 17:30 Confessions Notre Dame du Rosaire Wednesday: 12:05 Wednesday Mass Saturday: 17:30 Saturday Mass Salvation Army Sunday: 10:30 Morning Worship 17:20 Prayer Meeting 18:00 Evening Worship 1st Thursday of Month: 19:30 Corps Fellowship 2nd Thursday of Month: 20:00 Midweek Worship Guernsey Buddhist Society Tuesday: 19:30 Sangha Meeting Zen Buddhist Group Thursday: 19:30 Meditation
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SPIRITUAL
My First Six Months On Island
have taken Christenings, weddings and funerals for parishioners whether they currently come to church or not and I can see that some Castel families have strong relationships with the churches going back generations.
Rev. Scott Lamb,
Castel & Cobo Churches
Guernsey is unique, in many ways, but one that has affected me very practically in my first six months on the island has been the importance of the Parish to everyday life. As the Rector of the Castel I have had to do some things I have certainly not done anywhere else: chair the Ecclesiastical Meeting of parishioners, sit on various local committees, open a meeting by saying The Lord’s Prayer in French. However, the parish side of a Rector’s job is more than administrative; and I don’t only mean that some pastoral conversations happen in the Co-op as well as the Rectory. I have been struck by the openness of parish organisations and schools to my involvement and input. It is exciting to be welcomed into schools and to work alongside our uniformed organisations and in turn to welcome them into church for lessons, activities and worship.I 40
Then there is the Cobo slipway service and blessing the Grosse Roque flag; Rogationtide worship with Delisles Methodist church and the National Trust; Remembrance Sunday at the parish war memorial; Sea Sunday with the Sea Cadets and much more. Activities which I hope will be community events as well as acts of worship. So far in Guernsey there has been lots to remind me that I am a Parish Priest as well as the minister to two congregations and that as Rector I am available for all parishioners, of all faiths or none, if they want me. I realise that this traditional role is under scrutiny in a secularising
society but arriving from a place where this parish perspective has been greatly reduced has led me to reflect of how much can be lost for everyone in an atmosphere of hasty cuts to tradition. Parish ministry also has deep roots in the Christian thinking. Perhaps surprisingly, Jesus didn’t talk much about the church. Instead he spoke firstly and most often of the Kingdom of God. His priority was a transformed world. Founding a religious organisation to help bring that about came second. Similarly when St Paul wrote his letters to the young churches he often addressed then to “all God’s people in” Rome or Galatia or somewhere else. He wasn’t interested in style or label just that his readers would be following Jesus and living in a particular
place. The context, the specific part of the world was important: “parish matters,” in other words. As I hope you will have picked up, I am enjoying being the Rector of the Castel and particularly having a focus outside the church as well as inside. I look forward to working with all people of good will, of all faiths and none, for the good of our parish. With best wishes, Scott (Image credit to The Guernsey Press and Jason Friend)
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PUZZLING
Wordsearch Sea Life
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Barnacle Crab Dolphin Eel Jellyfish Lobster Octopus Oyster
Sea Horse Sea Lion Shark Shrimp Squid Starfish Turtle Whale
PUZZLING
Sudoku & Riddle
Fill in the puzzle so that every row across, every column down and every 3 by 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.
Medium difficulty
I have keys, but no locks, and space, and no rooms. You can enter, but you cannot go outside. What am I?
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PARISH
Your Douzaine Castel Constables
The douzeniers work for you by offering their services free of charge to administer the parish. This system has worked well for over a hundred years and we hope it continues. The douzaine undertakes a number of parochial duties which include: • Election organisation • Cemetery management • School committees • Moorings • Refuse and recycling • Parish rates • Noxious weed reports • Quarry inspection • Salle publique licences • Dangerous roads • Dangerous buildings • Flag days • Cistern inspection • Civil defence • Parish meetings • Road name signs • Dog tax collection • Stream inspection • Liquor licensing • Seat placing and upkeep 44 44
• Auctioneers’ licences • Barbed wire • Crown & Anchor licences • Fuel storage • Hedge and tree inspection • Illegal dumping • Abreveurs and troughs • Bookmakers’ licences • Dangerous buildings • Bornements and permits • Hawkers licences • Emergency planning • Hiring of Douzaine Room
PARISH
Douzaine Room Castel Constables
After refurbishment of the Douzaine Room in June 2017, parishioners and islanders can benefit from the facilities provided. The Douzaine Hall is available to hire (for birthday parties, exercise classes or meetings) at £45 per session to private/standard hires. The sessions available are: • 8am-12noon • 1pm-5pm • 6pm-10pm
An additional fee is chargeable if setting up/packing away of chairs and tables is required. Castel Douzaine Boardroom is also available to hire as it is suitable for formal corporate meetings and presentations. It can seat up to 16 people. The rates per 4 hour session for corporate hire are £50.
Call us on 255644 (9am – 12noon weekdays) Email us constables@castelparish.com
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PARISH
in such a manner as to prevent any person from falling in accidentally.
Parish Information Castel Constables
Barbed wire This must be of a height of at least 6ft from the road surface when it borders a public place, road or way. Bornements or permits A Bornement is required from the Douzaine in respect of any building workwithin 1.5 metres of the public road or footpath. Applications must be made in writing to the Constables, with a copy of plans and payment of £25 (cheques to be made payable to Constables of the Castel). Please be aware a bornement may take up to 28 days to process. Beach restrictions for dogs From the 1st May to 30th September inclusive, dogs are not allowed on 7 of Guernsey beaches; Fermain, Petit Bot, L’Erée, Vazon, Cobo, Port Soif, L’Ancresse/Pembroke. Cisterns, wells + pits These must be covered or fenced 46 46
Dog tax Due in January of each year in respect of all dogs, with the exemption of assistance dogs. Payments of £10 can be made in person during office hours by cash, cheque (made payable to Constables of the Castel) or card; by post, enclosing a stamped self- addressed envelope, or by phone using a debit or credit card (with a small charge to cover postage). Every dog owner must have their animal licensed from 6 months old and failure to do so means the owner can be reported to Guernsey Police and fined. Douzaine Room The Hall and Douzaine Boardroom are available for hire on application to the Secretary. Fairfield Fairfield is a delightful area and is available for use by the public. It is available to be hired for events. Please contact the parish secretary. Floral Helpers are required to form a new committee. If you are interested please contact the Parish Secretary. Hedges Hedges bordering a public road must be cut back between 1 and 15 June and 15 and 30 September every year. All dates inclusive.
Noxious weeds Reports relating to noxious weeds can either be made to the Douzaine Office or to the States Horticultural Services on 234567. Owners’ and refuse rates The owners’ and refuse rates are levied on householders based on the TRP values of their dwellings. Only those properties that are charged a refuse rate are entitled to collection. Parochial rates are levied annually and cover the period from 1 January to 31 December in any given year. Parish meetings Two meetings are held every year in April/May to approve expenditure (known as the Remede) and in November to elect Parish officials. Parish office The office is located at: La Chambre de la Douzaine, Les Beaucamps Road. Quarries These must be adequately protected by private land or fenced to ensure they are not a danger to the public. The quarries are inspected in the autumn by the parish constables. Recycling Recycling of glass, paper, cans, cardboard and clothing can be
undertaken at the amenity site at Vazon. Waste and recycling collection details can be seen overleaf. If any parishioner is genuinely unable to access the recycling banks within the parish and has no one able to do it for him/her, please contact the douzaine room. Arrangements can be made to collect recyclables on a regular basis. Refuse waste Black, general, waste will be collected fortnightly. Bins should be in place by 10pm. Wheelie bins can be used but the refuse waste must be in sacks. No garden waste should be included; this can be taken to the tip at Chouet or Friquet Garden Centre. There is also ‘pay as you throw’ element. Those who produce the most, will pay the most. For more information, go to: gov.gg/mybinnight. Streams Controlled streams are inspected twice a year between 1 and 30 June and 15 and 30 September. Owners must cut vegetation and clean streams so an unrestricted flow of water is ensured. You can contact the parish secretary on 255644 or email constables@castelparish.com. 47 47
PARISH
Rubbish and Recycling Collection Nights Collection around 10pm weekly Monday Evening
Belle Vue, Clos de la Cache, Rue de la Carlton Estate Charruee, Rue de la Chemin Robin Chou, Rue Croix, Rue de la Emrais, Clos des Emrais, Ruette Des Forfaitures, Ruette des Francais, Rue des Galaad, Rue de Grandes Mielles, Clos des Grandes Rocques Road Haye du Puits, La Hougue du Pommier Houmets, Rue des
Lilyvale Crescent Mare De Carteret, Route de la Mielles, Clos des Ollivier, Courtil Planque, la Port Soif Road Presbytere, Rue du Pretre, Rue au Ronce, Rue au Ronde Cheminee, Rue de la Saline, La Saumarez, Route de Saumarez, Ruette Touillets, Rue des Varendes, Clos des
Tuesday Evening
Albecq, Clos D’ Banquette, La Bouverie, Rue de Camp, Clos le Carteret, Route de Cherfs Estates, Les Cobo Coast Road Cobo, Route de Corneilles, Ruette des Courtil Cobo Carteret, Clos de Deane, Clos Douit Boudin, Le Feugre, Le Fries, Ruette des Genats Estate Generotte, Ruette de la
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Giffardiere, La Hougue, Rue de la L’Aumone Estate Lande, Rue de la Marottes, Ruette des Masse, Rue de la Neuve Rue, La Percee, La Pre de la Cotte, Le Queritez, Rue des Renouards, Rue des Retôt Salle, Clos de la St Germain, Rue Terramar Court Tour, Ruette de la
Wednesday Evening
Albecq, Rue D’ Baissieres, Les Bar Mere, Clos de Beaumont, Clos de Beaucamps, Les Cache, Clos de la Cauvains, Clos des Cauvains, Les Chemin Des Monts Cordage, Clos du Croix, La Delisles, Rue des Effards Lane Eglise, Route de l’ Eturs, Rue des Foire, Rue de la Friquet, Le Goddards, Clos des Goddards Rise Goddards, Rue des
Houguette Road, La Landelles Les, Maree’s Litres Mare Estate, La Mare Road, La Mont D’Aval, Le Perruque, Rue de la Petite Mare de lis Clos La Petits Puits, Clos des Preel, Rue du Queux Lane, Les Rocquette, Clos de la St Briocq, Ruette Sous La Mer Sous Les Courtils Tamaris, Rue des Tertre Estate, Le Tertre, Route du Village Rachelle
Thursday Evening
Beauvoir, Clos de Belles, Rue des Bergers, Rue des Boulains, Rue des Candie Road Chemin des Monts Clos au Compte Road Cohu, Rue estates Courtil Simon Lane Dos D’Ane, Rue du Douit, Rue du Eau, Rue a l’ Enfer, Rue d’ Fauxquets, Rue des Fresnes, Rue a Frie Plaidy, Rue du Gele, Rue du Grands Moulins, Les Grantez, Rue des Guildown, Clos Hamel, Rue du Haut Séjour, Ruette du
Haye, Rue de la Hechet, Rue du Highland Estate Hougues, Rue des Hurette, Rue de la Julienne, Ruette Marais, Rue du Meadow Drive Morts, Rue des Pelleys, Les Piette, Rue Ponchez, Ruette Porte, Rue de la Puits, Les Saumarez, Clos de Talbot Valley Torval, Rue du Vallees, Rue des Vazon Coast Road Villocq, Clos du Villocq Estate, Le Villocq Lane, Le
More information on gov.gg/mybinnight
PARISH
Recycling More information on gov.gg/mybinnight
The local recycling bank at Vazon will take: • Glass • Steel cans • Aluminium • Paper • Plastic • Textiles • Cardboard • Cartons What Is Collected? Blue Bag Tins, cans, plastic bottles, pots, tubs, trays, foil and cartons. Clear Bag Cardboard and paper. Food Waste Within the kerbside caddy provided. Glass Bag Bottles and jars (any colour). No Pyrex dishes or drinking glasses.
When Is It Collected? On your waste collection night, glass, food waste and blue bags are collected one week. Refuse waste, food waste and clear bags are collected the following week. 2019 Changes In 2019, there is a new ‘pay as you throw’ element for refuse waste. 1. There will be an annual bill from the parish to cover the cost of your waste and recycling collections. 2. There will also be an annual bill from the States, to cover some of the costs of treating and processing your waste and recycling, and the facilities provided. From 2019, this is £85 per household. 3. All other treatment and processing costs will be covered by ‘pay as you throw’. This will only apply to general rubbish, and will cost £2.50 for each standard sized bag you put out for collection. It will be in the form of a label that you buy in shops, and then stick on your bag.
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PARISH
Glossary of Terms & Puzzle Solutions Castel Constables & Donkeylogic
Bornement A permit required from the parish douzaine in Guernsey to make alterations to property within 1.5m of the public highway. Constable There are two constables per parish. They carry out the decisions of the Douzaine and manage the day to day affairs of the parish. Each constable has a maximum length of
service of 3 years. Canton An area within the parish which is managed by two Douzeniers. Castel has 6 Cantons. Deputy A member of the States of Guernsey. They represent the parish as politicians. Douzaine The main body in each parish. The Douzaine is made up of 12 Douzeniers. Douzenier A member of the Douzaine. They have a number of responsibilities which they partake in voluntarily. All 12 Douzeniers meet monthly. Parishioner Someone who lives in the parish.
Riddle Answer: A keyboard. 50 50
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Richmond Court, Rue de la Maladerie, St Saviours, Guernsey, GY7 9QT
Cafe & Brasserie EST. 1998
Hot and cold food served all day See our board for the daily specials Starters, desserts and children’s menu also available
SUMMER EVENING MENU Seafood linguine Spaghetti with homemade bolognese Homemade lasagne served with chips or salad Grilled beef sirloin steak served with chips and peas Scampi and chips Lemon sole with garlic butter, chips and peas Avocado, crispy bacon, crostini and pine nuts salad Fresh local crab and prawn salad Farfalle smoked salmon, mushrooms and Guernsey cream Smoked salmon salad, served with capers, onion, cucumber and bread Grilled gammon steak, double egg, chips and peas Avocado, prawns and smoked salmon salad Warm chicken salad with black olives
Open 7 days a week from 9:30am - late Mondays: 9:30am - 6:00pm To book, call 254434 Bus routes 41 & 42
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