Photo: David Ferguson
Pension Plus
You may be able to get help with health costs such as dental care, eye tests and foot treatment through Pension Plus.
Funding is available if:
You've reached pension age at the time of application
Are receiving a Jersey Old Age Pension or have ‘entitled’ status
You (and your partner, if applicable) don’t pay Jersey income tax, or you only pay up to £1,000* in total tax each year
Have no more than £64,000 in household assets (excluding the value of the family home)
*Extended to more pensioners – find out if you’re eligible Eligibility criteria expanded Pension Plus Scheme
Pension Plus can help you meet the cost of:
Dental Care
£55 a year for check-ups
Up to £1,900 every 4 years for treatment
Eye Care
£55 every 2 years for eye tests
£165 every 2 years for glasses or lenses
Foot Care
£165 a year for treatment
I am sitting down to write this in late May in the sweltering heat of the record-breaking temperatures we have been experiencing over the past few days. And, for the first time in what feels like ages, it looks as though children will spend halfterm week playing on the beach or having fun in Millbrook Park, a lovely place to visit in our parish and one that holds many fond memories for those of us who grew up in Jersey.
In the Spring edition, we included an interesting article tracing the 100-year history of Bel Royal Motors. Now we hear how this well-known parish business found itself in the spotlight on the world stage, at the heart of international motor racing in the late 1940s.
from the editor Welcome Got share? something to
Frequent appeals in this magazine by successive Chefs de Police, inviting parishioners to come forward and join the Honorary Police, have at last borne fruit. In this edition, our newest Centenier, Alexandra Winston, shares the lovely story of how she became a Centenier and how much she has enjoyed the role so far.
My thanks to Jackie Nelson, the Secretary (and much more!) of St Lawrence Netball Club, who contacted me to say that, after 25 years, she had recently retired from her leadership role. My job is made so much easier by people who get in touch with news of parish events so, thank you Jackie.
It was at the 50th anniversary celebrations of Bel Royal School, through a chance meeting with Rod Bryans, that I first heard about his inspiring Bookshelf Project, which aims to provide a mini-library for children in every parish. Supported by the One Foundation, the initiative is a collaboration between La Moye Prison, where the bookshelves were made, and Every Child Our Future, which has stocked them with children’s books. Do look out for the bookshelf the next time you are in the Moignard Liberation Gardens.
Finally, I would like to express my congratulations to Tina Palmer who became our new Connétable at the General Election on 7th June. I look forward to working with her over the coming months. Congratulations also go to our three newly elected Deputies, Hilary Jeune, Kirsten Morel and Phil Romeril.
As always, I am so grateful for all the ideas and articles you continue to send me so please contact me in the usual way either by ‘phoning the Parish Hall office on 861672 or emailing me at: editorstlawrence@gmail.com
With very best wishes
Marion
Please continue to send me your ideas and articles either by ‘phoning the Parish Hall office on 861672 or emailing me at: editorstlawrence@gmail.com
Boîte Grillée
Visites du Branchage
Please note that the Visites du Branchage this year are taking place on Wednesday 1st July and Wednesday 16th September
Jumble Sale
The next St Lawrence Ladies Action Group Jumble Sale is on Saturday 26th September and they are always on the lookout for bric-a-brac, books, raffle prizes or any good items that you think would sell. If you can help in anyway, please ‘phone Ann Pilley on 865222
Parish elects its
Third Woman Constable
Tina Palmer is the new St Lawrence Constable after comfortably beating former Chief Minister John Le Fondré.
The recruitment specialist received 1,150 votes to Mr Le Fondré’s 608 and becomes the third woman to hold the parochial office. She is preceded by Iris Le Feuvre, the first female Constable (1984-2000), and Deidre Mezbourian (2008-2026), who has retired.
The parish also has a new Deputy. Businessman and charity leader Phil Romeril was elected on his second attempt to get into the States with 2,871 votes, behind poll topper Hilary Jeune (3,020). Outgoing Sustainable Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel was third with 2,252 votes, while Channel 103 presenter Peter McLinton failed to win a seat with 1,451.
The Best of the Rest
There will be four other new faces among the Constables. Steve Pallett makes a return after unseating Mike Jackson in St Brelade and David Curtis ousted Kevin Lewis in St Saviour. The retirement of Simon Crowcroft in St Helier and Philip Le Sueur in Trinity opened the door to Inna Gardiner and Andy Howell respectively.
Meanwhile, Helen Miles topped the Senatorial poll with 15,859 votes. She has been a leading
What’s your vision for Jersey, and can politicians deliver it? What’s important? Which aspects of our unique institutions and culture should we hold onto? How important is the parish system? Are you optimistic about the future? Are you happy?
backbencher for the past four years, chairing the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel and spearheading a review of the relationship between central government and the parishes. It is her second term as an Assembly Member, having been elected a Deputy in St Brelade in 2022.
It was a disastrous night for Reform Jersey, whose longstanding leader, Sam Mézec, lost his seat. Despite topping the poll is his party’s St Helier heartland, he finished tenth with 9,374 votes, 2,197 votes behind ninth placed Mary Le Hegarat. Former Education Minister Rob Ward failed in his bid to become St Helier Constable, while Raluca Kovacs lost her Deputy seat in St Saviour.
Four of the nine Senatorial seats went to women, including first-time States Member Serena Kersten Guthrie, former captain of the England netball team, who finished fifth.
There will be one other first-time Member on the Senatorial benches. Mark Boleat, founder of think tank Policy Centre Jersey and a former senior figure in the City of London, came eighth, winning a seat on his second attempt. Alan Maclean, a former Senator and minister in the governments of Terry Le Sueur and Ian Gorst, makes a return to the Assembly. The remaining Senatorial seats went to sitting Members Ian Gorst, Lyndon Farnham, Elaine Millar, Tom Binet and Ms Le Hegarat, all of whom held ministerial positions in the outgoing government.
Thank you and we look forward to sharing the results with you in future editions. Our Island survey – addressing
We’re asking readers to answer a few questions to provide a snapshot of Jersey today. It’ll take no more than around five minutes.
You can use the QR code to access the survey. The code will also be published on LinkedIn and Facebook on the Our Island Jersey pages. Please follow us and share the link so that we can reach as many people as possible.
PARISH MATTERS
Recent Swearings-in of members of the Municipality
Afternoon Tea at the Parish Hall
An Afternoon Tea was held in the Parish Hall on Tuesday 12th May to thank those parishioners who had, in recent years, distributed Les Laurentins around the Parish. Following warm words of appreciation from the Connétable, the first Editor, Anne Bougourd, explained how the planning for the distribution of the magazine by volunteers began more than twenty years ago.
Vingtenier Noel Le Fondré was sworn in at the Royal Court on Friday 27th March.
From left: Centenier Lusby, Vingtenier Le Fondré, Vingtenier Gray and former Centenier Mike Haden
Procureur Steve Linney and the Connétable outside the Royal Court after his swearing in on Friday 20th March
Centenier Stuart Lusby and his family following his swearing in on Friday 13th March
Anne Bougourd, the first Editor of Les Laurentins
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Netball Club News from St Lawrence Car Vandalism on Rue de Haut
A number of cars have been vandalised along Rue de Haut (the road running from Bel Royal School through to St Aubin’s Inner Road near Morrisons). Damage includes scratching, slashed tyres and stolen valves. Various different vehicles have been targeted while some have been targeted repeatedly.
Damage has been reported four times since the New Year but has occurred intermittently in the past few years.
The motivation for these attacks is unclear. However, Rue de Haut is a very popular parking area and it may be that a local resident resents others parking along this road.
The Honorary Police would be grateful for anyone with information, and who might have seen any suspicious activity on this road.
Contact: Chef de Police, Centenier Norman Laverack by email - honpol@stlawrence.je or Duty Centenier on 07797 715602
St Lawrence Netball Club held their 2026 AGM on Monday 11th May at which Jackie Nelson retired as Secretary of the Club after 25 years wonderful years of leadership.
Forty members attended an 'End of Season' social on Friday 24th April to celebrate the end of an era which was a very emotional evening. Jackie’s daughter, Michelle Nelson – an integral part of the St Lawrence set up –gave a very moving speech which included the following:
For more than 25 years, Jackie has been the heart of St Lawrence Netball Club as Secretary, Coach, Selector and Umpire. She has been a constant presence behind the scenes - organising, supporting, encouraging and quietly holding everything together. During her time as Secretary, the Club grew from just two teams to six 'adult' and three 'youth' teams. That growth reflects on the welcoming, supportive culture Jackie worked so hard to create. As Jackie steps down from her role as Secretary to spend more time with her extended family and to enjoy a well-earned change of pace, she leaves behind something truly special, as her legacy lives on in the Club that she nurtured and the values that she instilled.
Jan Morley and her daughter Tara Parker were elected to 'lead' the Club going forward. It is great to see that the future of St Lawrence Netball Club is in very capable hands.
Summer training/trial sessions commence on Monday 1st June at the outdoor Netball courts behind the Les Quennevais Sports Centre from 6.30pm - 8.00pm.
If anyone is interested in joining the club or would like further information, Jan Morley can be contacted on 07797 733377
Flattened tyre
Tyre damaged with nail
Winners of the JNA Winter League 2nd Division in 1997. Jackie Nelson (middle, back row)
Jersey Family History Society
by Sue Hardy
Most Jersey families can usually name their grandparents but their knowledge often stops right there!
The Channel Islands Family History Society is now known as the Jersey Family History Society. Since its formation in October 1978, members have created copies of registers, 19th century Census records and much, much more! This extensive collection is open to public access at Jersey Archive.
A new website enables members to access an enormous quantity of information on-line, with links to many other useful websites including Jersey Archives: www.jerseyfamilyhistory.org
You will be surprised at just how much there is at your fingertips!
Monthly meetings are usually held at The Members Room at the Société Jersiaise, 7 Pier Road in St Helier, with talks held on the last Monday evening each month from October to June, and other venues chosen in July and September, often outdoors, enabling the discovery of various aspects of local interest. Descendants of Jersey families world-wide are able to join our indoor meetings using ‘Zoom’.
Membership enables you to explore the website more deeply and to enjoy a reduced subscription for access to details from Jersey Archives. Quarterly Journals are published - the large volume of articles and other information can also be accessed on-line.
Why not join this friendly local society? Help is offered to open a door to the past, to solve those mysteries, and put leaves on your family tree! Come to one of our meetings and find out more.
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THE VISITES DU BRANCHAGE AND VISITES ROYALE CHECK BEFORE YOU CHOP
The Visites du Branchage are when the Parish authorities visit and check the Parish roads and footpaths to ensure they are safe for all who use them.
In addition, senior members of the Royal Court, including the Bailiff conduct a “Visite Royale” to two of the 12 parishes each year.
This year it is the turn of St Lawrence and St Martin.
For those who care for Jersey’s wildlife this is a time of stress, call outs and rescue missions.
There is a requirement for vegetation that overhangs roads and footpaths (including pavements) to be cut so that there is a clearance overhead of 12 feet on public roads and 8 feet on footpaths.
Before occupiers of property bordering public roads and footpaths begin contacting gardening contractors, or readying strimmers to begin the task themselves A PLEA on behalf of our diminishing wildlife - CHECK BEFORE YOU CHOP!
The overgrown banques, hedgerows. fosses, and leafy trees provide homes to our birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.
The housing shortage in Jersey extends to the natural world as well and building more homes for humans means a further loss of habitat for our precious wild creatures.
If you are a landowner, tenant, parish official, or farmer who subcontracts the work to others, please brief your contractors the best way to conduct a “good” branchage.
DO NOT EVER cut banques down to bare earth, there is no requirement in law to do so. If using a flailer, alter the blade accordingly.
• During the June/July branchage, cut only the sides of the banque to a minimum height of 10 cm.
• Leave the vegetation uncut on the top of the banque, as long as it does not overhang the road.
• On the second branchage in September, cut the sides and top of the banque to a minimum height of 10 cm.
• Leave tussocks of vegetation for wildlife where possible.
• Remove all cuttings; do not allow them to cover the banque or fall into the road.
• Do leave some vegetation around the base of trees and hedgerows and check carefully for hedgehog nests on the ground and birds’ nests in trees and hedgerows BEFORE beginning work.
• Use your boot, a gloved hand, a rake or a stick to gently move any creatures out of harm’s way.
At this time of the year our wildlife is rearing its young. Hedgehog mothers are nursing their hoglets and if she is killed or injured, or the nest is disturbed, the babies are unlikely to survive. This adds to the drastically declining population of our hedgehogs.
PLEASE help us to retain what we have before it’s too late.
If you find an injured hedgehog please telephone Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group on 01534 734340, or contact us via our website jerseyhedgehogs.co.uk
For other injured wildlife please contact the JSPCA on 01534 724331
Dates for the Visites are listed on the Parish websites and take place between 26th June and 10th July, and again between 3rd and 18th September 2026
Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group, White Lodge, Le Chemin des Moulins, St Helier, JE2 4ZR e-mail: jerseyhedgehogs@hotmail.co.uk
Strimmed hedgehog with a head injury sewn up by the vet Hoglet found in a disturbed nest site
Les Laurentins Summer 2026
Honorary Police
There’s a first time for
everything …
… and there have certainly been a lot of ‘firsts’ for me since I was sworn in as a St Lawrence Centenier last year.
Afunny story I’ll keep short. I can honestly say that joining the Honorary Police had never crossed my mind, until I found myself sitting opposite a Centenier and a Vingtenier at a Parish Hall Enquiry, being fined for speeding through the village. In my defence, which I tried to explain that evening, I was distracted by the man in a high-viz jacket … and was very surprised immediately it dawned on me that he was a Police Officer and was pointing a speed gun at my car! I was so busy wondering what he was doing standing on the road outside the school that I completely missed the 20mph sign and admitted my mistake when he signalled for me to pull over. Whilst I had previous experience of volunteering, having delivered Meals on Wheels and read to children in schools for a number of years, ‘policing’ wasn’t something I’d ever contemplated … until that evening, when I was invited to “just think about it”. After coffees and chats with various Honoraries past and present over the following few days, and a few weeks’ research, I was persuaded it was not only something I could do for my parish community but importantly something I might well enjoy doing.
by Centenier Alexandra Winston
There has been a lot to learn but I have been lucky enough to have benefitted from the warmest welcome from our Connétable, mentorship from all our lovely Parish’s Honorary Police (some with very many years of experience), coupled with the fantastic support of the Parish Hall office team, who thankfully literally know everything - there hasn’t yet been a question they couldn’t answer!
It’s been a steep learning curve. There have been a number of courses to sign up for, from First Aid and GDPR to radio and speed gun training and, specifically for Centeniers, training on correctly conducting Parish Hall Enquiries and Magistrate’s Court presentations. The four consecutive Saturdays I spent taking the Honorary Police Foundation Course were both fascinating and tiring - it’s a long ‘school’ day if, like mine, your brain has been allowed to become unused to taking in (and retaining!) so much new information. The States of Jersey Police give up their own time to run the courses, which is very much appreciated by everyone. My favourite so far (and one of my bucket list items, now ticked) was the ‘blue light’ training - two hours in our Parish’s police car, zigzagging across the Island (within the speed limit obviously!) under the expert tuition and critical eye of one of the States of Jersey Police driving instructors, sirens and lights on … as someone who loves driving, I was in heaven!
I find myself on duty one week in every four as a rule and it happened to be my duty week during and in the aftermath of Storm Goretti; an eye opening experience - the level of preparedness and co-ordination across the Island, between the Parishes, States of Jersey Police HQ and the Infrastructure and Environment Department was not only reassuring but impressive and we found their live app, showing which roads were blocked or open, was incredibly useful. St Lawrence fielded quite a number of calls about trees and debris blocking roads and there were a fair few ‘wandering cows’ that needed encouraging back home. Most certainly a very busy day but the team were on it! The first couple of hours of daylight were the most intense, distributing road signs and managing traffic but crews removing fallen trees seemed to appear out of nowhere and within a very short time all the roads were reopened safely. Teamwork at its finest and a fabulous effort by everyone involved.
The social element of the Honorary Police Association has been a very welcome surprise. I’ve already attended some fantastic events including mini golf and quiz nights (unfortunately I had to miss the clay pigeon shoot) but the HPA AGM and dinner at the end of April may well top the list so far! We also had a lovely Municipality dinner last month where, following a rousing and heartwarming speech by our Connétable, a few long service awards were given out - one gentleman having logged 50 years of service to the Parish! Fantastic stuff indeed!
We have quite a few events to look forward to over the Spring and Summer months, including Jazz at Hamptonne, the Big Ride Out, the Battle of Flowers and the Boat Show, to name but a few - during all of which the Honoraries will help out in various ways, either managing parking, escorting floats and/or just generally being on hand to help and answer questions when and where needed, offering yet more opportunities to meet new people and hopefully be a positive contributor to both Parish and wider Island life.
Taking on a completely new part-time role at this stage of the game has been a carefully considered choice and first impressions are that my brain is definitely benefitting from the challenge and my body is benefiting from the exercise. Choosing to join in may well prove to be one of my better life-decisions! All in all, so far so good, and I’m looking forward to seeing what new experiences the future holds.
In the event we might be of assistance our duty number is 07797 715602 and we can also be reached by email to honpol@stlawrence.je
Jersey Farmers Markets at Le Tacheron Farm, Trinity
Something Jersey’s been missing is here and it’s worth the trip to Trinity.
Jersey Farmers Markets runs every other Saturday at Le Tacheron Farm from 10am to 2pm through to the end of September, with the next market on Saturday, 11 July
Browse fresh fruit and vegetables, locally caught seafood, cut flowers, honey, free-range eggs, meat, pastries, and freshly baked bread. Stay for the coffee and hot food made by a different chef from whatever’s seasonal and available on the day. There’s live music, farm animals to meet, loads of parking and no particular reason to rush home. Children will love it too. The farm’s rare breed animals, from pygmy goats and baby lambs to donkeys and working horses, have a way of stopping people in their tracks.
The setting is no coincidence. Le Tacheron, whose name means ‘team’ in Jèrriais, is one of Jersey’s most distinctive working farms. Growing a range of cereals including spelt, barley, rye, and oats, milling its own flour on site, and baking its own bread, it’s a place that takes field-to-fork seriously. Around it, a
rotating cast of bakers, farmers, fishers, butchers and artisan producers sets up every other Saturday, alongside the Huddle Van, a mobile education hub hosting talks and workshops on food, health and growing. “We want to inspire and encourage others to see themselves as an important part of agriculture and this community,” says Charles Le Maistre. That spirit of open invitation is exactly what this market is built on.
Behind the market is a simple principle: local producers deserve a direct route to their community, where they keep their profits and build their businesses with genuine support behind them. This is about making Jersey’s incredible producers more visible, and rebuilding food resilience on the island in a way that lasts beyond a single season.
Those living in St Martin’s, Maufant, or Victoria Village are encouraged to walk or cycle. As a thank you, anyone arriving on foot or by bike will receive a free Jersey Wonder.
The event is proudly sponsored by Butterfield.
Follow @jerseyfarmersmarkets on Facebook and Instagram for more details.
Every other Saturday 10:00am–2:00pm
Free entry & on-site parking
What3words: baggage.factories.pecans. Bus routes: Route 3, 21, 23 and 33.
Jersey Farmers Markets, Le Tacheron Farm, Rue de Dielament, Trinity JE3 5HX.
St Lawrence Household recycling collection 2026
This guide explains how to use the St Lawrence household recycling collection. A collection planner is included so you know when your recycling will be collected. Every home in St Lawrence receives a recycling collection, in addition to the existing rubbish and glass collections.
Glass and Recycling Collections 2026
If your refuse is collected on a Wednesday & Thursday
Month Paper/Card, Plastic & Tins Glass
June Monday 8th Monday 15th
July Monday 13th Monday 20th
August Monday 10th Monday 17th
September Monday 14th Monday 21st
October Monday 12th Monday 19th
November Monday 9th Monday 16th
December Monday 7th Monday 14th
If your refuse is collected on a Friday
Month
Paper/Card, Plastic & Tins Glass
June Tuesday 9th Tuesday 16th
July Tuesday 14th Tuesday 21st
August Tuesday 11th Tuesday 18th
September Tuesday 15th Tuesday 22nd
October Tuesday 13th Tuesday 20th
November Tuesday 10th Tuesday 17th
December Tuesday 8th Tuesday 15th
All refuse, recycling and glass out before 5am please
For more information, visit gov.je/recycling
For collection enquiries, contact Vautier Municipal Ltd. Tel: (01534) 500191 Email: office@vml.je
Recycling in Jersey MythBusters
Myth
FAct !
All recycling collected in Jersey just gets burned in the Energy Recovery Facility.
Items sent for recycling through Parish and Government of Jersey collections are not incinerated Only contaminated materials are diverted for energy recovery.
Myth Recycling and general refuse are collected by the same truck, and get mixed together.
FAct !
Some collections rounds use the same type of vehicle , but the loads are kept separate to ensure proper recycling.
Myth You don’t need to rinse out food containers or bottles before recycling.
FAct !
Dirty items can contaminate the whole collection, making them unrecyclable . Always rinse before recycling!
Myth You should leave metal lids on jars and bottles
FAct !
Myth Glass can go in general waste orenergy recovery.
FAct !
Myth
FAct !
Metal lids and tops should be removed and placed with your household metal recycling. Glass can damage the Energy Recovery Facility , leading to costly repairs. It must be recycled properly.
bottle tops can be recycled, so don’t throw them away!
Bookshelf Project
by Rod Bryans
Global research shows children are reading less than ever — and the consequences for their wellbeing, literacy and development are serious. One simple response is to put books where people already are.
Supported by Ben Cooke and the One Foundation, we are installing twelve Little Free Libraries across Jersey. Romeril’s have donated the building materials, La Moye Prison made them, and Cris Lakeman of Every Child Our Future has provided children's books to get them stocked. Connétable Mezbourian responded quickly when I asked if she would like one.
The first is now in place in the pavilion in the Moignard Liberation Garden, not far from the school — an ideal spot for a parent to sit and read with their child. The idea is simple: take a book, and if you can, leave one in its place.
No fuss. No cost. Just books finding their way to people who need them.
Education by Stimulation
On a glorious springtime Saturday, the Jersey Trees for Life team – including a bumble bee, a ladybird, an owl and a squirrel – was in St Saviour’s Woodland for the first of its two annual children’s events, April Adventure.
Along with its autumnal equivalent, this event has proved extremely popular in recent years as parents seek ways to encourage their youngsters to engage directly with nature – something that’s become imperative in an age of technological oversaturation and a rapidly warming planet.
If nature engagement was the aim, it was certainly fulfilled. Around 140 children attended the two 90-minute sessions, each offering a host of nature-themed activities including sapling repotting, coaster art, a tree quiz and the obligatory scavenger hunt, complete with sweet incentives. All for a fiver too.
It was wonderful to see families playing together in the woodland. It was also safe to conclude that dads enjoy building dens as much as their kids do.
Although sometimes overlooked in the maelstrom of activity, education is a core part of the charity’s raison d’être. As today’s children will supersede us, it’s vital to ensure they’re engaged with nature, understanding the symbiotic relationship we share and its fundamental importance to our existence.
Jersey Trees for Life thanks everyone who contributed to the event’s success, from those who bought tickets to all the volunteers that made it happen. Thanks also go to the Parish of St Saviour for providing facilities and Honorary Police. These events really are a fantastic way to bring community together.
Something for everyone
Tel: 01534 491910
6 great concepts to choose from...
Tel: 01534 491242
tidal view dining at its best
Perfect for: fun-filled evenings, luxurious lunches, romantic moments, authentic local history & stunning sea views overlooking St Aubin’s.
Location: st aubin’s village
Mont du Boulavard, St Aubin, Price: £££ www.voyagertides.je
côte d’azur spirit. jersey soul
Perfect for: generous plates, sunshine flavours, and that familiar brasserie comfort, elevated just enough to feel quietly chic.
Location: st aubin’s bay
Le Mont Felard, St Lawrence
Price: ££ www.azure.je
quality comfort food by the beach
Perfect for: delicious local seafood, juicy British meats wholesome vegetarian & vegan meals in a relaxed no fuss beachfront setting right by the sea.
Location: st brelade’s bay
La Route de la Baie, St Brelade
Price: ££ www.labrise.je
cocktails, curiosities & more!
Perfect for: curious cocktails, classy coupes de Champagne, cake filled afternoons, outstanding sea views and the history of Mr J.W. Chapman.
Location: st aubin’s village
Mont du Boulavard, St Aubin, Price: ££ www.voyagertides.je
rosé, spritzes & long afternoons
Perfect for: sunny cocktail sessions, intimate evening catchups, delicious snacks, afternoon teas & live music in a relaxed yet classy sea view setting.
Location: st aubin’s bay
Le Mont Felard, St Lawrence Price: ££ www.azure.je
beachside coffee, cake & cocktails!
Perfect for: beachfront coffee’s, home-made cakes, fresh juices & shakes, tasty snacks, epic beachfront cocktails and craft local brews overlooking the ocean.
Location: st brelade’s bay
La Route de la Baie, St Brelade Price: ££ www.labrise.je
THE SCOOP
News, insights and seasonal recipes from your local farm shop!
By Kaspar Wimberley
As
always in the summer we look forward to an explosion
of
fresh produce from around the Island. It’s a testament to all the wonderful growers we work with.
It’s been an action packed first half of 2026. We have been rolling out our school fruit and veg boxes, currently servicing St John, St Mary, St Pater, Grouville and St Martin’s Primary Schools. We hope St Lawrence Primary School will join soon!
Our Open Farm Days have started again, and we have started providing cooking workshops for people with health conditions. We have also launched our new range of healthy ferments, from Kimchi to Sauerkraut and Miso, all using locally sourced ingredients, but more on that in the next edition of Les Laurentins!
SCOOP Business Incubator
In this edition we shine a light on our business incubator. Twothirds of food businesses fail in their first year and most are left with debt and depreciated equipment. SCOOP uses its infrastructure to help like-minded food businesses grow, without the barriers of large start-up costs.
The first business we supported in this way was Dough Rye Me. Master baker Pawel came to us with a vision for an organic
micro-bakery in Jersey and a passion for creating exceptional artisan bread. We were able to provide affordable space within our production kitchen, business advice, a point of sale, marketing and brand development, to help him launch and develop his business. We also employed him part-time until he was able to earn a living from the bakery. Dough Rye Me has flourished. Pawel Zygiewicz now runs a bakery in St John and employs four staff, baking 300 sourdough loaves, baguettes, focaccia and brioche every day, which are distributed across the Island to local shops (including our own!), cafés, wholesalers and hotels. We’re very proud of his achievements.
We currently host gelato maker Soft Spot and hot sauce producer Dragon Sauce in our kitchen and have also supported former employee Oliver Griggs to launch their own regenerative farm, covering the costs of training opportunities and providing business advice and a route to market. Lomah Farm now grows a wide range of excellent fresh produce, focusing on a veg box delivery scheme.
It’s nice to observe how these businesses evolve and the passion and dedication that each entrepreneur invests in their work. If local businesses can support one another and share resources, we can create a more resilient and connected community. St Lawrence can be at the heart of that transformation!
“SCOOP has provided me with a supportive and encouraging environment to grow and develop my business. It helps to have easy access to a supply chain, providing the ingredients I need on a day-to-day basis, while working in a public-facing kitchen has provided an opportunity to connect and engage with my customers.”
Pawel Zygiewicz
The Sustainable Cooperative (SCOOP) is a community owned organisation committed to creating more sustainable food systems, to protect natural resources and biodiversity. Our farm shop is open from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday.
Seasonal Recipe Red Pepper Pesto
INGREDIENTS
400g Jersey Red Peppers, roasted
50g Sun-Dried Tomatoes, soaked overnight (or 200g fresh tomatoes, slow roasted)
300ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
150g Parmesan, finely grated (or another hard aged cheese)
150g Nuts and Seeds, chopped
50g Lemon juice (Approx.)
To taste Garlic, crushed To taste Pepper, coarsely ground
Optional Fresh herbs, finely chopped (this will reduce the shelf life of the pesto)
Optional A roasted red chilli for extra spice!
METHOD
Roast or grill the red peppers and then blend or process with the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, Add grated parmesan, lemon juice, garlic, pepper and chopped nuts and seeds. For even more flavour, create your own oven dried or blushed tomatoes by slow roasting local tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. You can also pan roast some of the chopped nuts and seeds. Switch the red peppers for cooked beetroot when red peppers are not
Keep the juice from soaking the sun-dried tomatoes. It can be one of the most useful condiments in your kitchen! Add it to sauces and dressings to add salt, depth and umami.
ST LAWRENCEWI
by Liz Dicker, Secretary
Due to the storm, we were unable to hold our January meeting, but in February we were delighted to welcome Carl Walker from the Jersey Consumer Council.
He gave us many useful tips to keep in mind to improve our shopping experience and introduced us to the JCC’s price comparison app. He emphasised that one should always make and take a list and not shop whilst hungry! Members received a pen, a shopping list pad and a tote bag to aid our future shopping expeditions.
In March we held our Annual Meeting and elected Joy Thomson to be our new President. We wish her every success in her new role.
April saw us trying our hand at decorating coasters with crystal art. This turned out to be a fun and very sociable evening as we attempted to gain control of new crafting tools and runaway crystals!
Our varied programme for this next year is all arranged, and we offer a friendly invitation to anyone who would like to join us to see what being a WI member is all about. It’s completely free for your first three taster sessions! We would love to see you.
WI Programme
10th July Genealogy – Kathy Gillen
21st August Lunch & Activites at Maison des Landes
11th September Chocadyllic – Evelyn Day
9th October The Corn Riots – Montfort Tadier
13th November From Ukraine – Lera Evered
10th December Christmas Lunch – Greenhills Country Hotel
Members decorating coasters with crystal art
Joy takes the April meeting
Les Laurentins
Jersey at the Centre of the Racing World: The Jersey International Road Races
Imagine standing on Victoria Avenue as a Maserati screams past at 140mph, close enough to feel the rush of air and smell the burning rubber.
For a brief, extraordinary period between 1947 and 1952, Jersey found itself at the very centre of international motor sport, hosting races that drew the finest drivers and cars in the world, the equivalent of today's Formula One. It came about through an unlikely twist of wartime fate. Brooklands, the spiritual home of British motor racing, had been requisitioned for aircraft production during the Second World War. With no venue for the British Grand Prix and no operational racing tracks in the UK, the sport's organisers looked beyond the mainland and found Jersey.
The Street Circuit
The Island circuit ran 3.2 miles from West Park to Bel Royal along Victoria Avenue, returning via St Aubin's Inner Road. It was raw, fast, and unforgiving, a street circuit in the truest sense, with hedges and walls where barriers would be today. Bel Royal Motors became one of the most coveted vantage points on the course. Philip Le Marquand invited guests to watch from the rooftop and corner showroom windows, where more than 100 spectators could experience the full drama of cars hurtling into the bend, tyres screaming, before broadsiding round and accelerating flat-out up the Inner Road. A wireless set on the garage roof kept the crowd informed of proceedings at West Park. It was, by any measure, a front-row seat at one of the most exciting sporting events in the world.
1947: Jersey Takes Centre Stage
The first race, held on 8th May 1947, was a sensation. Drivers of the calibre of Reg Parnell travelled from the UK, while the legendary Louis Chiron made the crossing from France. ERAs, Maseratis, Delages and Bugattis thundered around the Island circuit before a crowd of 30,000, half the entire population of Jersey at the time. All the Island schoolchildren were given a half-day holiday to watch. Among those spectators was a boy of four, whose mother wouldn't allow him onto the garage roof. He watched instead from the corner windows of Bel Royal Motors, and more than seventy years later he visited our showroom and told us he has never forgotten the incredible roar of those engines. It is exactly the kind of memory our centenary exhibition exists to celebrate.
1948: The Crash That Defied Belief
If 1947 announced Jersey's arrival on the world stage, 1948 provided its most astonishing moment. At Bel Royal Corner, Sam Gilbey in his flame-red No. 21 Maserati lost control and was launched into the air, the car turning upside down and catapulting him head first onto Victoria Avenue, in the path of cars travelling at 80mph. Miraculously, he was unhurt. His car, meanwhile, shot onto the pavement, struck the hedge, rebounded and turned three complete somersaults before coming to rest, parking itself in the customer car park at Bel Royal Motors!
1949: A Darker Day
Not every story from those years is one of miraculous escape. During practice ahead of the 1949 race, Kenneth Bear was recorded at speeds of up to 140mph along Victoria Avenue when it became clear something was wrong. Sparks trailed from beneath his car; his brakes had failed. Approaching Bel Royal at full speed, he appeared to turn towards St Peter's Valley, then changed his mind at the last moment and swerved left, striking the wall directly opposite Bel Royal Motors, where Dr O'Dowd, PC Frank Dutot and several race officials were standing. It is believed Bear was attempting to avoid a crowd of around 30 spectators gathered across the barrier at St Peter's Valley. He paid for that decision with his life, as did Dr O'Dowd and PC Frank Dutot. The 1949 race carried on, as was the custom of the era, but the loss of three lives cast a long shadow.
Les Laurentins Summer 2026
1947 International Road Race Programme
Assistance following the 1948 Gilbey accident
1948 Gilbey accident
The Final Years: A Glorious Farewell
The races continued through 1950, attracting drivers of genuine international renown, among them Prince Bira of Siam, Baron de Graffenreid, and seasoned campaigners Bob Gerard, Roy Salvadori, George Abecassis, Raymond Mays and Peter Whitehead, in Maseratis, ERAs and Ferraris. But the world was moving on. By 1951, Grand Prix cars were lapping Silverstone and Goodwood at average speeds exceeding 90mph, beyond what Jersey's street circuit could safely accommodate, and very sadly the Island races came to an end.
One final race was held in 1952, this time for sports cars. It provided a spectacular farewell. The winner was Ian Stewart, at the wheel of the Jaguar C-Type, a car designed specifically to win at Le Mans. Ken Wharton's Frazer-Nash finished second, George Abecassis's Aston Martin third. It was a fitting final chapter: some of the greatest machinery ever built, racing through the streets of a small island, watched by thousands who would never forget what they saw.
A Legacy to Celebrate
For Bel Royal Motors, the races are more than a footnote in Island history, they are part of our story. We are proud of the many photographs of the exquisite cars of the day driving around the sharpest hairpin bend of the circuit in front of our beautiful art deco garage, as well as the incredible stories from those watching from our roof. We hope they bring those extraordinary days back to life for a new generation. Come and see the exhibition at our showroom and workshop; we'd love to share the memories with you.
1947 International Road Race Bel Royal Corner
1950 International Road Race
1950 International Road Race Bel Royal Corner 1947 International Road Race Bel Royal Corner
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Drop in, say hello, and find out more about how we work, the services we provide and how we support islanders every day.
Confirmed Dates
Saturday 4th July at St John & Saturday 8th August at St Martin
Timings: 11am - 1pm
Where we’ll be:
• St John – Saturday 4th July, 11am–1pm
• St Martin – Saturday 8th August, 11am–1pm • Grouville – August
• St Clement – September
• St Saviour – October
• St Helier – November
• St Lawrence – December
St Lawrence Primary School
As we reflect on a busy and inspiring period at St Lawrence School, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the many achievements, experiences and moments of joy that have taken place across our school community.
Despite a challenging start to the term with storm disruption, our pupils quickly returned with enthusiasm and have embraced every opportunity with positivity, resilience and determination. Throughout all of this, our core values of independence, success and responsibility have been clearly evident in the way our children learn, grow and support one another.
Across the school, pupils have benefited from a rich variety of learning experiences both in and beyond the classroom. Our youngest learners in Nursery have shown growing confidence through hands-on experiences, including visits from a doctor and a parent with a baby, as well as their very first coach trip to the zoo. Older pupils have also been inspired by a range of visitors, including a geologist supporting Year 3’s science learning, renewable energy experts from Sunworks working with Year 4, and safety specialists from Child Accident Prevention Jersey delivering important workshops. These opportunities, alongside partnerships with organisations such as Jersey Heritage and Jersey Trees for Life, have helped to bring learning to life in meaningful and memorable ways.
Sport has been a particular highlight, with our pupils demonstrating excellent teamwork, determination and sportsmanship. Our football teams have enjoyed great success, including victories against Samares School and the fantastic achievement of winning the Small Schools Primary FA Cup. A memorable experience for many was serving as mascots for Jersey Bulls and playing in front of a large crowd. Pupils have also taken part in a range of other sporting events, including netball, cross country and swimming, while our Year 1 children
by Amory Charlesworth, Head Teacher
developed confidence and coordination through balance bike sessions delivered by Jersey Sport.
Creativity has flourished across the school, with pupils demonstrating independence and pride in their work. From designing and constructing vehicles in Design Technology, to creating artwork inspired by visiting artists, and developing musical talents in choir and clubs, children have shown a willingness to take risks and strive for success. Our choir continues to go from strength to strength, performing for the community, while Year 6 pupils impressed us with ambitious performances, including a three-part Latin piece. Year 5 pupils also benefited from a collaborative art and drama session with students from Beaulieu Convent School.
Outdoor learning and enrichment opportunities have further supported pupils in developing resilience and responsibility. Year 5 pupils demonstrated teamwork and independence during their residential visit to Crabbé, while activities such as tree planting, cookery sessions and educational visits - including Year 1’s trip to learn about the Battle of Jersey - have brought learning to life. Year 3 pupils have also developed valuable life skills through their ‘Let’s Get Cooking’ programme, while Year 2 pupils built meaningful connections through their pen pal project.
Pupils have continued to show ambition and pride in their learning. Year 4 have been preparing to communicate in French with their partner school in France, and we are especially proud to have been recognised for our achievement in mathematics, receiving the highest average score across Jersey schools in Times Tables Rock Stars.
Our strong sense of community and commitment to personal development has also shone through. Pupils have demonstrated empathy and responsibility through activities such as spending time with senior parishioners, representing the school in student council discussions, and supporting charitable events including the Swimarathon.
A particularly meaningful moment this term has been our focus on global citizenship, rooted in the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Through our learning and assemblies, pupils have explored important themes such as their right to education (Article 28), their right to be heard and share their views (Article 12), and their responsibility to respect and care for others (Article 29). As part of our Easter celebrations, we came together to support Heifer International, raising awareness of global communities and how we can make a positive difference. A powerful highlight was watching a video created by Mrs De La Cloche and the school council, where our pupils’ thoughtful questions were answered by children in Nepal. This meaningful exchange helped deepen pupils’ understanding of the wider world and their role within it, showing empathy, curiosity and a strong sense of responsibility.
We would also like to celebrate an inspiring achievement within our staff team. Mr Fancourt demonstrated extraordinary dedication by completing one million steps in a single month, raising an incredible £4,600 for Macmillan. His commitment is a wonderful example to our pupils of perseverance, compassion and striving for success beyond the classroom.
Finally, we would like to thank our dedicated staff, supportive families and the wider community for their continued encouragement and partnership. It is through this shared commitment that we are able to nurture confident, responsible and successful learners. It has been a truly rewarding time, full of achievement, growth and joyful learning, and we look forward to all that the next term will bring.
ST LAWRENCE Youth Project
by Peta
As I'm writing this article we are still planning our 50 Year Celebration Open Weekend on 6th and 7th June and hoping to see lots of past Coin Varin Youth Club and St Lawrence Youth Club members, helpers and young people interested in attending Youth Club sessions in future.
In preparation for our birthday event, we stopped running the youth club for a couple of weeks during the school Easter holidays in order to give the club rooms, kitchen and hallway in the Community Centre some redecoration. These areas have not been painted for a long time and have been well used during club sessions, when rented out for parties and by other regular users of the Centre.
I popped into the Centre during the painting works and took a few photos of the improvements being made.
The Centre now looks so much fresher and brighter after the re-painting of the walls, skirting and all the woodwork surfaces that get touched all of the time.
We thank the Community Centre Committee for their support with the redecoration works suggested at the Centre. The Youth Project have also made a contribution towards the painting work as a grateful gesture.
We hope as many of you as possible will be able to visit the St Lawrence Sports and Community Centre (the building next to the Mont Felard Bodyworks Garage) at Three Oaks, either during our Celebration Open Weekend in early June or at another time.
Our club sessions are back open and running as follows. Young people are very welcome to attend club sessions for their age group and bring their friends along (first St Lawrence club session entry is free):
Clayton, Chair of St Lawrence Youth Project Committee
The work of the Jersey Care Commission is expanding. Chief Inspector Becky Sherrington answers key questions about what these changes mean for Islanders
EXPANSION OF REGULATED CARE SERVICES IN JERSEY
What is changing in the regulation of care services in Jersey, and what does this expansion mean?
Following changes to the Regulation of Care (Jersey) Law 2014, our remit has expanded to include the regulation of hospital services, ambulance services and Government-provided mental health services. Certain laser clinics will also be inspected under the updated Law.
This means these services will be subject to independent regulation against a Single Assessment Framework, a set of clearly defined standards that outline how care services should be provided. The changes reflect a commitment to ensuring Islander’s receive health and social care services that are safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led.
What’s the purpose of independent regulation, and how does it help improve care?
Independent regulation helps provide Islanders with assurance about the quality, safety and effectiveness of health and social care services, while supporting continual improvement in care quality. We help achieve this by setting clear, evidence-based standards and assessing services fairly, proportionately and transparently through inspections and ongoing oversight.
What services are included in the expanded regulation, and what is not?
The expanded Regulation of Care (Jersey) Law 2014 includes the independent regulation of hospital services, ambulance services, Government provided mental health services and certain laser clinics.
Ambulance services provided by charitable organisations, including St John Ambulance Jersey and Normandy Rescue, also fall within the updated Law. Private mental health services are not included. Decisions about which services are regulated are made through the legislative process and voted on by the States Assembly. The Commission’s role is to apply the Law as enacted.
What happens next, and when will inspections begin?
Following the amendments to the Regulation of Care (Jersey) Law in November 2025, the Law was enacted on 6 April 2026. Newly regulated services now have until 6 October 2026 to register with us.
We’re preparing to carry out our first onsite inspection with a blend of local and external inspectors in 2027.
How will hospital services be inspected?
Hospital services won’t be inspected all at once. Because of the size and complexity of the hospital, inspections will be introduced in a phased, proportionate way, focusing on defined service areas or “blocks” over time, including medicine, surgery, outpatients, women and children’s services and mental health. This approach will also help protect patient safety and minimise disruption to patients, staff and day-to-day clinical activity.
Who
carries out inspections? Will specialist expertise be used?
Inspections are carried out by our experienced team of Regulation Officers, who have a wide range of professional experience from across health and social care, including frontline care, clinical, leadership and management roles. To inspect the hospital, ambulance and mental health services, specialist knowledge will also be required, so inspections will also be supported by external senior clinical advisers and subject matter experts, including specialists from other regulators such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC), professional bodies including the Royal College of Psychiatrists and other relevant organisations.
What
happens
during an inspection?
During an inspection, a range of evidence is gathered from different sources. The voice of service users and their families or carers is an important part of how we continually improve services, alongside the views of staff, leaders, on-site observations and the review of records and systems.
At the end of the inspection, initial feedback is shared with service leaders before an inspection report is produced setting out findings, including both good practice and areas for improvement. All inspection reports are published on the Jersey Care Commission website.
What
happens after an inspection?
After each inspection, we publish an inspection report on our website. We don’t use ratings or judgement scores. Instead, reports provide clear, evidence-based findings that support transparency, accountability and continual improvement. The reports identify what is going well and areas of good practice as well as areas for improvement. Reports clearly set out, if required, the actions needed and timescales for improvement, with progress monitored through ongoing oversight.
For more information visit carecommission.je
Becky Sherrington Jersey Care Commission Chief Inspector
Read to the Beat with Jersey Library’s Summer Reading Challenge
This summer, Jersey Library is inviting children across the Island to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge, with this year’s lively theme Read to the Beat.
The Summer Reading Challenge is a free, annual initiative that runs throughout the school holidays, encouraging primary school children to enjoy reading for pleasure over the break. The 2026 theme celebrates the connection between stories, music and rhythm, adding a fun, creative twist to the challenge.
Children can sign up from Saturday 27th June at Jersey Library, Communicare Library or on the Mobile Library. Every kind of reading counts especially those inspired by music, sound and performance, including picture books, audiobooks, ebooks, graphic novels and music scores. Incentives are given along the way including a swim pass from Aquasplash and on completion of the 6th book, children are presented with a medal and a certificate.
MOBILE LIBRARY TIMETABLE
MONDAY
10:00 - 10:30
St Ouen's Parish Hall
10:45 - 11:15
Greve de Lecq
11:30 - 12:15
St John’s Parish Hall
TUESDAY
09:30 - 11:00
Holme Grown
11:15 - 12:45
Gorey Common Carpark
14:45 - 15:30
Jersey Zoo
15:45 - 16:30 Maufant
WEDNESDAY
09:30 - 11:00
Langtry Gardens
11:15 - 12:45
St Martin's Village Green
14:30 - 15:30
Le Rocquier School
Children under four are encouraged to join the mini challenge, sharing stories with others and getting stickers and a certificate upon completion.
During the holidays, Jersey Library will host activities and events linked to the challenge, including best-selling author Gareth P Jones, Martyn Cast from Jenca Music School, Jo Logue from Jo’s Painted Pebbles and other craft activities.
The Summer Reading Challenge not only supports literacy but also promotes wellbeing, confidence and creativity. However your child enjoys reading – quietly or with plenty of rhythm – this summer is the perfect time to Read to the Beat.
John Ogilby's Aesop's Fables: An exhibition at Jersey Library
Step into the world of Aesop’s Fables as they were imagined in the seventeenth century.
Featuring illustrations from books in Jersey Library’s special collections, the exhibition reveals how these familiar animal tales were used to explore moral and social questions during a time of political uncertainty and change.
Although Aesop’s Fables originated in Ancient Greece, their ongoing appeal for writers and artists lies in their adaptability. By using animals to reflect human behaviour,
the stories address timeless themes such as power, ambition, deception and wisdom. In seventeenth century England, this indirect approach to storytelling made the fable a particularly powerful art form. At a time when speaking openly about politics and those in power could be risky, animals could safely act out moral dilemmas, allowing readers to interpret the message for themselves.
The exhibition also explores how illustrations shaped the interpretation of these stories. Full-page illustrations set the fables in detailed landscapes, reflecting a new fascination with the natural world. Far from being merely decorative, these illustrations were intended to help guide readers' make the right moral choices.
The exhibition is on display in the Jersey Library Second Floor Gallery until the end of September.
St Lawrence Community
Market
by Rose Morin
I reported in our last Magazine of 2025 that we had been able to make donations of £500 to four different local Charities. I can now add to that list a further two donations so, in summary, in 2025 each of the following charities received £500 from us:
Healing Waves
Les Amis Autism Jersey Age Concern Brightly Oxygen Therapy Centre
We are proud to be able to help these charities. Our Markets are run by unpaid parish volunteers with all of the profits from the catering and the fees from stallholders going to charity. We can only do this with your support using our café and we look forward to your visits each month.
Please contact me if you would like a table to sell your wares. The cost is just £6 for one trestle table and £10 if you have two.
Enjoy your summer and visit us if you are looking for plants as one of our stallholders, Maggie, usually has a really good selection for sale in the spring/summer months.
My contact details are as follows:
Rose Morin
M: 07797737973 / T: 863783 E: monsmorin@gmail.com
St Lawrence Ladies Action Group
by Liz Pallot
Three Months of Fundraising - A Season of Community Spirit and Generosity
Another three months have flown by, with continued success for the Ladies Action Group’s fundraising efforts.
In February we held a jumble sale at the Parish Hall. It didn’t bring in as much money as we’d hoped – only £217.00, but we had plenty of clothes left over which were donated to local charities and twelve bags of clothing went to Mustard Seed, which will eventually be sent out to help people in Romania.
March proved more fruitful with our tabletop sale, raising a fantastic £431.00. We had sixteen tables available, with the Action Group selling items on three of them, as well as serving refreshments from the kitchen. A huge thank you to Rose Morin who co-ordinated this event and all who had a table to sell their items.
April saw our biggest result yet – a coffee morning and sale raising an amazing £780.27. Alongside the teas and coffee, the kitchen served yummy bacon rolls and tea cakes. There were stalls selling shoes, nearly new clothes, cakes, bric-abrac, books and puzzles, plus a raffle. Thank you to everyone who supported this event – it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces.
Next up on our calendar is a social afternoon tea where our members can sit around, chat and catch up - a wonderful social event for all. This will be a lovely opportunity for both new and longstanding members to share stories and strengthen our community ties.
We will soon be deciding where best to donate the money we have raised over the past months. We would like to thank everyone for attending and helping in any way at our events.
We have been welcoming some new members who are rolling their sleeves up and getting involved in what we do. Fresh faces always bring new energy and ideas to our group, and we’re delighted to see our membership growing.
If you are interested in giving back to St Lawrence and raising funds for the Island’s charities, please email liz.pallot@gmail.com or call 07797 726040 to find out more, or simply turn up to one of our monthly meetings at the Parish Hall – second Monday of the month at 7.45pm.
Tabletop Sale
Shoes and Clothing Stall at the Coffee Morning
Bric-a-Brac Stall at the Coffee Morning
Twinning Association
The Twinning of Barnevile-Carteret and the Parish of St Lawrence goes from strength to strength.
he twinning association has been undergoing something
An Invitation to the British Embassy, Paris
UNE INVITATION À L'AMBASSADE BRITANNIQUE, PARIS
In total, nearly 70 participants from the Manche department took part in the weekend with the emphasis on conviviality, sport, and
L’AVENIR
In March the Channel Islands' participation in "Millennium: 2027, European Year of the Normans" was launched at The British Embassy in Paris,
John Henry Falle (also known as “The Story Beast”), a poet and storyteller from Jersey, took a whimsical look at the legends of the Dukes of Normandy and the Channel Islands. This was followed by a cocktail reception organized by the Region of Normandy and hosted by the British Embassy.
LE PROJET DES MOULINS AVEC JERSEY
Mais l’année 2027 s’annonce déjà particulièrement ambitieuse avec le lancement important « Millennium Project » associant le moulin Le Quètivel à Jersey et le mo Fierville en Normandie
Barnevile-Carteret association organized a trip to Jersey last Autumn to meet various Parish sports clubs, schools, and members of the local twinning committee with the objective of preparing future exchanges and to develop new links between young people and associations from both sides of the Channel.
Jumelage St
Jumelage St Lawrence et Barnville Carter
The end of the year was marked by an enjoyable Christmas Dinner, which brought together members and supporters of the association.
2027 is already shaping up to be particularly ambitious with the launch of a major "Millennium Project" pairing Le Quétivel Mill in Jersey and the Fierville Mill in Normandy.
Meanwhile, next April a mini festival organized at the Millennium Stone site, near the ruins of the Vicart Mill will highlight wild edible and medicinal plants, as well as creative activities using natural materials. A guided walk along the "Path of the Mills" will also take place, linking the sea to the valley where settlements were established - several locations of which still bear names of Nordic origin today.
Herbaliste, Amanda Bond
Quètivel moulin à eau, St Peter ’s Valley, Jersey
Helene Sohier, vice présidente et Tania, La Vaullée, Présidente du Kirsten Morel, Président St Lawrence et Deidre Mezbourian, Conné
Lawrence et Barnville Cartere
Helene Sohier, vice présidente et Tania, La Vaullée, Présidente du ju Kirsten Morel, Président St Lawrence et Deidre Mezbourian, Conné
Helene Sohier (Vice President) and Tania La Vaulée (President of the Barnevile-Carteret twinning); Kirsten Morel (Chairman of St Lawrence) and Deidre Mezbourian (Constable of St Lawrence).
Cécile Wateremetz Moulin à Vent du
Moulin à Vent du Contentin (Left) Amanda Bond, Herbalist at Le Quétivel watermill, St Peter’s Valley and (Right) Cécile Wateremetz, Moulin à Vent du Cotentin
September 2027, will include :
• Production of botanical flour blends at Le Quétivel Mill, the last historic watermill still operating in Jersey.
• A lecture on the nutritional and health qualities of these diverse flours.
• Tastings of galettes and crêpes made from the blends.
Coming Soon
Barneville-Carteret / St Lawrence forthcoming events:-
• August 8th - Swimmers cross the English Channel with international teams.
• August 15th – A day-trip to Barneville from Jersey.
• August 30th – A visit by the French to St Lawrence, featuring a Walking Football Tournament.
Representatives of the Barneville – Carteret Twinning Association were present in St Lawrence during the recent Liberation Day commemorations.
Gouldson Finance
MLES VISITES OFFICIELLES
r. David Legouet, Mayor of Barneville, represented the strength of the bonds shared by the two communities as the Carter family from St Lawrence, marked Liberation Day with a poignant ceremony that honoured both Jersey’s freedom and a cherished family tradition.
At 9:00 a.m. members of the family raised the Union Flag in a moving re-enactment of the historic moment in 1945 when their grandfather, Harold Shakespeare Carter, then Headmaster of St Lawrence School, first raised the flag to celebrate the Island’s
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Approximately 60 parishioners gathered to witness the occasion, reflecting the importance of preserving local history and remembering the sacrifices of those who lived through the Occupation.
The event served as a fitting tribute to both family heritage and the enduring spirit of Liberation Day.
Les Laurentins
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What Was but What If…
PART 4
Compiled by Peter Tabb
Extracted from We
Shall Eat Grass
A compendium of myths, mysteries and minutiae of the only German Occupation of British Soil.
On Monday 7 May, prime minister Winston Churchill announced on the BBC radio the unconditional surrender of all German forces and ended his announcement with
When the Royal Navy destroyers HMS Bulldog and Beagle arrived off Guernsey at 14.00 hrs (Double British Summer Time) on 8 May with a party under the joint command of Rear-Admiral G.C. Stuart DSO DSC and Brigadier A.E. Snow OBE and expecting an unconditional German surrender, Kapitänleutnant Armin Zimmermann, representing the Channel Islands commander-in-chief Vizeadmiral zur
See Friedrich Hüffmeier (conveyed to the rendezvous by a battered and rusting minesweeper and who gave the Nazi salute when boarding Bulldog), advised that he was empowered only to discuss terms for an armistice that would commence at 00.01 hrs the following day, not sign any unconditional surrender. What’s more, the proximity of the two British warships was a ‘provocative act’ and they would be fired upon if they did not go away.
Zimmerman was detained for an hour while Admiral Stuart and Brigadier Snow contacted GOC Southern Command in Plymouth for instructions and after Zimmerman had disembarked, Bulldog’s captain, a grizzled commander who’d spent much of the war escorting trans-Atlantic convoys, exclaimed, ‘To hell with that. These beggars have surrendered…’ and with both the Admiral and Brigadier compliant, ordered his vessel and Beagle to heave to.
the words “…and our dear Channel Islands are also to be freed today.” This last was greeted with cheers and applause in the Royal Square since Bailiff Alexander Coutanche, tipped off about Churchill’s broadcast had arranged for loudspeakers to be set up around the square. At the fringe of the cheering crowd stood several German soldiers, ignoring what, in any other circumstance, would have been a crowd that needed dispersing.
We all know that in fact it was almost two more days before the German forces formally surrendered but what if…
At 16.45 precisely, a 12 inch shell screamed over Bulldog and splashed into the sea 50 yards ahead of the destroyer. Thirty seconds later a similar eruption took place 50 yards astern.
‘The mad beggars!’ the captain shouted. ‘Sound “Action Stations”. His First Lieutenant pressed the large red button, commenting drily, ‘They’re bracketing us…’ as similar eruptions took place ahead and astern of Beagle. ‘They’s got a four gun 12-inch battery inland and they’re radar guided…’ He recalled the notes he had browsed before sailing. The notes gave precise details of the ordinance in place on both islands compiled by RAF reconnaissance and that the Mirus 12-inch battery was manned by officers and men of the Kriegsmarine. ‘Any single shot can sink us…”
‘Guns!’ The Gunnery Officer was fastening his helmet. ‘Prepare to open fire…’ He leaned over the speaking tube to the wheelhouse below. “Ring Full ahead and start zigzagging. Flags, call Beagle and tell him to hop it…”
“Fire on what, sir?’ The First Lieutenant questioned. ‘The battery is inland. We have no idea where it is nor even what’s actually facing us on the coast since these are all protected by bunkers…” He pointed to the coast where bunkers and towers were evident. He didn’t add quite what the effect of their 4.7-inch guns would be and in the coastal area there would be civilians. Wryly he thought of Nelson’s instruction that ships should never take on land-based batteries.
“Belay that order,” the captain snapped. As ever his First Lieutenant, a “Wavy Navy” officer who had been a lawyer before the war, was right. What the hell could they fire upon?
Bulldog surged ahead, heading out to sea with Beagle in her wake as eruptions occurred just where they had been hove to just moments before.
HMS Beagle British Destroyer
‘Their guns have a range of more than 20 miles…” the First Lieutenant commented to the Gunnery Officer who was literally twitching his thumbs..
‘Good God…’
‘Let’s hope so. We might be meeting Him soon…”
Another 12-inch shell exploded in the destroyer’s wake, shaking the entire vessel. Bulldog leaned into a sharp turn as the slim vessel zigzagged. Beagle was heading away from her consort, also zigzagging wildly, opening the gap between them. Suddenly Beagle’s bridge structure dissolved in a fiery blast, so violent that it rolled the ship onto her beam ends.
‘Good God, Beagle’s bought it!’ as another 12-inch shell landed on the stricken destroyer literally blowing the vessel apart. For a moment or two the bow and stern remained above the surface before sinking in a welter of smoke, oil fuel and loose deck fittings.
Despite the risk, the captain ordered Bulldog to circle the widening circle of fuel and wreckage. ‘She’s gone with everyone in her…” the Gunnery Officer muttered as Bulldog heeled into a tight turn. ‘Keep an eye out for survivors,’ the captain barked into the Tannoy. “And let’s hope those beggars don’t go for the double!’
But there were no survivors. Beagle, Bulldog’s sister B-Class destroyer and regular companion on convoys, had been destroyed by a single very accurate salvo.
‘Resume zigzagging. Let’s get out of here. Those beggars will pay for this.”
Bulldog headed out to sea eventually heaving to near the western end of the Minquiers reef where the Roches-
Douvres lighthouse had stood until being destroyed by the Germans in 1944.
‘What do we do now, sir?’ the Gunnery Officer asked. ‘We stand down, that’s what and await instructions.’
They had remained hove to for almost half an hour when a Telegraphist appeared with a message from the GOC Southern Command advising that the new German Führer, Grossadmiral-zur-See Karl Doenitz had given the order to all the German forces to surrender and they were all complying, including the CinC of the German forces in the Channel Islands.
The Captain rang down to the wheelhouse. ‘Set a course to take us back to Guernsey.’ He turned to the officers on the bridge. ‘I’d like to see the madman who opened fire on us and sank Beagle brought aboard in bloody chains…’
Once again the foregoing is a work of fiction although Bulldog and Beagle did retire out of range when so suggested by Kapitänleutnant Zimmerman. It did not happen but could it have done.
“We Shall Eat Grass” will be published later this year.
Adm Huffmeier being escorted from his Guernsey headquarters to HMS Faulkener
BaCk oN ThE AvEnUe
It’s free. Bring your own chairs, relax and settle down for the day and night parades!*
After a year away, we are delighted to return to Victoria Avenueplace where we feel the Battle of Flowers truly belongs. Following the tremendous success of the scaled down parade through Town in 2025, and after listening carefully to public feedback, we have made a number of important changes for this year’s event — not least the decision to keep both the Day and Night Parades completely free.
By returning the event to Victoria Avenue and extending the arena from Rue de Galet to Lower Park, we can safely and comfortably accommodate even larger crowds, while also providing float builders with the space needed to create the large-scale, imaginative exhibits for which the Battle of Flowers is renowned.
The Day Parade will travel from west to east, while the Night Parade will travel in the opposite direction, from east to west. The events will be single-pass parades along the southern carriageway of Victoria Avenue.
This format o ers spectators a fantastic opportunity to enjoy an immersive Battle of Flowers experience along the entire route, from Lower Park to Rue de Galet.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs and settle in along either side of the parade route to enjoy the 29 spectacular floats, marching bands, and entertainers up close with pre-parade performances and live music all completely free of charge along with a wide range of food and drink outlets.
The Night Parade, taking place the following evening, will feature all floats fully illuminated, accompanied once again by bands and entertainers, this time travelling westward from the Lower Park.
Beginning at 8:45pm, spectators can look forward to a spectacular display of lights and entertainment, culminating in a breathtaking finale, details to be confirmed.
*Subject to the Baili ’s Permission
Day Parade Fri 14th Aug
Arena opens at 13:00, with pre-parade entertainment, food and drink available on the laybys between Lower Park and Rue de Galet.
Parade starts at 15:00, single pass from Rue de Galet to Lower Park, where floats will park up for viewing.
Arena closes at 18:00
Moonlight Parade Sat 15th Aug
Arena opens at 18:30, again with pre-parade entertainment, food and drink.
At sunset (approx. 21:20), the parade starts from Lower Park, all floats illuminated, and travels to Rue de Galet. This will be followed by a finale shortly after 22:00 –details yet to be confirmed.
Arena closes at 23:00.
A message from the Battle Organisers
We are committed to making the Battle of Flowers a free community event from now on and to make sure it is accessible to all.
We are very grateful for the grant funding we have already received.
However, trying to find the final £40,000 in the current financial climate has proven more than a little challenging, so in order to be able to put on the show that Islanders have come to expect, we are asking for your support.
Please help us out, anything you can give will be gratefully received – thank you.
If you want to keep Battle free, please donate what you can at www.battle.je/fundraising
Do you remember...?
by Marion Hibbeard
Jane Jaffrelot, the widow of her late husband, John, who passed away in April of last year, has shown me this photograph of John (standing fourth from the left holding a long pole) taken at a time when he was a pupil at St Lawrence School.
On the reverse of the photo are the words “St Lawrence Skiffle Group 1957”. It would be lovely to be able to put names to the other members of the group and to share any memories of anyone who was also in the group with John.
St Lawrence Battle of Flowers
by Bev Waller
The St Lawrence Battle of Flowers Community are working towards our entrance in the August Parades.
We are currently folding tissue paper to make the paper flowers and will soon start ‘fluffing’ the folded paper to become flower shaped.
The structure of the float is starting to take shape to magically bring the theme to life.
We are grateful to the St Lawrence Allsorts Group for continuing to organise the fundraising bingo nights. See image for dates and information.
Please do get in touch if you would like to join our battle group.
‘In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun’
of Flowers
St Lawrence Parish Hall, 7.30pm sharp (doors open from 6pm)
Mon. 20th July 2026 (No Bingo in August) Mon. 21st September 2026 Mon. 19th October 2026
The folded paper ready for ‘fluffing’
(St Lawrence)
23rd Jersey
Scout Group
by J-P (Magpie) Fidrmuc, Section Leader 23rd (St George’s) Beavers
As this article is being written, we have just returned to Scouting from the Easter break and have what is undoubtedly the best term ahead of us with warm and dry weather, and we have plans to make the most of the bright and longer nights. As always, we have kept the young people busy since Christmas and here is some of what we have been up to.
Beavers
(aged 6 to 8)
The Beavers began the term by tackling and completing their Global Issues badge and this was spread over three sessions looking at Fairtrade, endangered species and water conservation. These sessions were undoubtedly enhanced thanks to the support of Co Op Grande Marché St Peter, Helen from Jersey Zoo and Rob from Jersey Water. The Beavers also completed their Hobbies, Sports and Collector badges with a very impressive Show and Tell evening. ‘Skills for Life’ is our goal and the Beavers completed the Safety badge learning about dangers in the home, on the road and around water, and with a very enjoyable visit to the Police Station where they learned about stranger danger and what happens when you
ring 999. They got to have a look at the Police vehicles and inside the cells. In amongst all this was an overnight Camp at the Island Scout Centre with a Science, Technology, Maths and Engineering theme.
Cubs
(8 to 10 years)
The Cubs were kept equally as busy with a mix of activities and a number of badges achieved. The term began with a great introductory Kick Boxing session from Ryan and Matt of Samurai Kickboxing followed by an introduction to indoor softball with Rikki who, alongside helping with Cubs, also plays in the local league. Spread across two sessions the Cubs learned about local history, with the second session being a trail around St Peter’s Village with a challenge of finding Parish crests and getting a photo with them to complete their Photographer badge. The Cubs love cooking and after learning how to use
the Trangia stoves they made some very tasty African flatbreads. There was also a full moon hike around Noirmont and they completed the International and World badges.
Scouts
(10 to 14 years)
The Scout Troop, based at the Island Scout Centre in St Ouen’s Bay, took advantage of the onsite kitchen to learn and cook up some lightweight meals, and they discovered that there are many tasty ways to cook lentils in the process. They worked towards the Communications Skills badge, which included reaching out to other Scouts across the world. The Scouts pioneering skills were put to the test with a number of tasks that challenged their teamwork, construction skills, ingenuity and their ability to choose and do the most suitable knot from the range of knots they have learned over the years. These skills were further tested whilst they learnt some basic survival skills.
Group Activities
There has been a focus in the Spring to get our Cubs and Scouts ready for an off-island trip in May half term to the Lake District, which began with an overnight pre-camp so those going got the chance to get to know each other and practise some of the skills they will need to use whilst they are away.
To support such activities, we have been busy fundraising, and thank you to all those who let the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts help pack your bags at Co Op Grandé Marche in St Peter at the end of February. This, coupled with a family and friends Bingo night at Les Quennevais School planned and delivered by the Scouts, has raised over £2,000 to help buy additional equipment and fund some of the exciting activities we have planned for the Summer.
New Members
We have three intakes a year, at the start of each academic term. We have over 120 young people in our Group and we have a waiting list for new members. If you have a young person who is interested, please register them. Our Group Lead Volunteer Elisabeth Blampied can be emailed at e.blampied@scouts.org.je
A QUIET INVASION!
(And it’s not just from Asian Hornets)
We are under attack! Not from our neighbours, but from a quieter, more insidious invasive threat: non native plants, animals, and even pathogens such as viruses and fungi.
These invasions often go unnoticed at first, yet their effects can be far reaching—damaging our environment, disrupting our economy, and even affecting public health and our society. When a non native species spreads and causes harm, it is classified as an invasive non native species (INNS).
The pathways by which these species arrive are varied, but human activity is a key factor. Through global trade and travel, we have become highly effective at moving organisms around the world. Sometimes introductions are deliberate, such as ornamental plants or exotic pets. More often, however, they are accidental, with species hitchhiking as stowaways on freight, as a contaminant on imported goods or even escaping from captivity.
In Jersey, responsibility for protecting the island from INNS lies with the Biosecurity Team within Natural Environment, often working closely with other departments, including Regulation, the States Vets, and Customs and Excise, as well as with landowners, volunteer groups, the public, and neighbouring jurisdictions. This work is ongoing, dynamic, and collaborative, focused on identifying threats and managing those that pose the greatest risks—both now and in the future.
Some examples of INNS that are under active management in Jersey are the Asian or yellow legged hornet (Vespa velutina), Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica), purple dew plant (Disphyma crassifolium), sour fig (Carpobrotus edulis), and the pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa). Others, not yet established but considered likely threats, include the coypu (Myocastor coypus), the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), and the rose ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), amongst many others.
With so many species that could pose a threat there has been a structured process of risk assessment. This began with compiling lists of INNS already present and those likely to arrive in the future. Given the similarities between the islands’ environments and shared risks, collaboration with colleagues in the Bailiwick of Guernsey has been both practical and valuable, contributing to the concept of a “Biosecure Bailiwick.”
Each of the species were assessed based on factors such as its potential rate of spread, ecological and economic impact, and the pathways by which it might be introduced. For high risk species, the next step was to determine whether management is feasible and where it is, strategies are developed, ranging from eradication to long term control, often in partnership with relevant stakeholders. For species not yet present, there are contingency plans focus on prevention, early detection, monitoring, and rapid response.
The public plays a vital role in this effort. You can help by responsibly managing non native plants and animals, such as disposing of garden waste correctly or ensuring unwanted pets are not released into the wild. Staying alert and reporting suspicious sightings is equally important. If you notice a species of concern, you can contact the Biosecurity Team at invasives@ gov.je providing a photograph and location details.
By working together, Jersey can reduce the risks posed by invasive non native species and help protect the island’s unique natural environment.
By Alastair Christie BSc
(Senior Scientific Officer – Invasive Species, Asian Hornet & Japanese Knotweed Coordinator)
Ring-necked Parakeet (photo: Carole Devillers)
Coypu (photo: Non-Native Species Secretariat)
Asian Hornet (photo: Alastair Christie)
Asian Tiger mosquito (photo: Alastair Christie)
Sour fig (photo: Alastair Christie)
Les Laurentins Summer 2026
MYTH
COMMON MYTHS ABOUT DIABETES
DIABETES IS CAUSED BY EATING TOO MUCH SUGAR
TYPE 1 DIABETES IS THE ‘MILD’ KIND.
FACT
TYPE 1 DIABETES IS AN AUTO IMMUNE CONDITION (NOT CAUSED BY DIET).
TYPE 2 DIABETES IS INFLUENCED BY MULTIPLE FACTORS LIKE GENETICS AND LIFESTYLE.
FACT
PEOPLE OF ALL BODY TYPES CAN DEVELOP BOTH TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 DIABETES.
FACT
TYPE 1 DIABETES IS A SERIOUS LIFELONG CONDITION REQUIRING DAILY INSULIN.
by Susan Parker
L’Office du Jèrriais is working hard around the Island to revitalise our native language. Learner numbers of all ages are increasing, and there is a quiet realisation that Jèrriais is something which makes our Island truly distinctive.
L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais (Jèrriais Assembly) celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, having been formed in 1951 to hold meetings and publish items in our native language. The group began with 27 people and membership grew over the years to almost five hundred. Around 40 people still attend regularly, and new members who are learners or supporters of Jèrriais are very welcome.
While there were still farmers who knew how to plough with a number of horses (La Grand’ Tchethue), L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais decided to film the operation for posterity. The filming took place in early May 1968. Eileen Le Sueur is pictured in the centre, and Jean Le Maiste MBE is the young man in the bowler hat. Photo credit: Jersey Evening Post
L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais held their Dîner Annuel (annual lunch) at the Ambassador Hotel in April with around 50 people enjoying a delicious meal and sharing memories of life in Jersey. A warm welcome was extended to a small delegation from l’Assemblliae d’Dgèrnésy (Guernsey Assembly) and it was lovely to hear the native language of our sister island being spoken.
Reflecting on 75 years of L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais, François Le Maistre, who has been involved since the beginning as a child, said in his toast:
“Ch’est un privilège et un honneu d’être ichîn auve vous aniet quand nou s’en va célébrer lé septante-chînquième annivèrsaithe dépis qué L’Assembliée fut fondée en 1951.
J’tais p’tchiot quand la preunmié rêunion s’fit au mais d’Novembre, et les p’tchiots né fûtent pon învités à chutte rêunion. Mais à la deuxième rêunion au mais d’Janvyi 1952, mes deux fréthes, ‘Douard et Jean, et mé, j’tions là et à toutes les rêunions pouor bein d’s années auprès. Nou sortait d’ La Fèrme à Portînfé à sept heuthes vîngt pouor être en bouôn temps pouor la rêunion à huit heuthes dans La Salle d’Agritchultuthe en Ville.
J’avions des discours, et pis des r’citâtions, d’la chant’tie, des pièches dé thiâtre et des concèrts dans des Salles Pârouaîssiales alentou d’ L’Île. J’avions du monde comme Amelia Perchard, Eileen Lé Sueux, Alice Bliampid, Gordon Lé Breton, Ben Amy, Emma Syvret et un tas d’autres et j’m’en rappelle d’un dgialogue entre Ken Vibert et Margaret dé Gruchy. Et pis, i’ y avait étout Lé Sèrvice Annuel au mais d’Avri à difféthentes Églyises et bein seux, Lé Sèrvice des Cantiques dé Noué, tchi continnue touos l’s ans.
Eune année dans les mille neuf chent nénante (1990s), j’tais lé Prédicateu à la p’tite Églyise dé St. George pouor lé Sèrvice Annuel et j’ai aîdgi étout deux’-trais fais au Sèrvice dé Noué. Mais, quand j’tions à travailli sus la fèrme, ‘Douard et mé, j’soulions chanter ensembl’ye, pûtôt « Ma Normandie » ès concèrts et pis, quand ‘Douard s’en fut en Angliétèrre, j’chantis « Ma Normandie » auve Ben Amy. Et, i’y’ avait des grandes occâsions comme la bordée qué l’ Sieur Èrthu dé La Mathe, donnit un discours à la Salle Publique dé St. Martîn entouor san travas comme Ambassadeur pouor la Grande Brétangne! La Salle ‘tait plieine et ch’tait souvent la même chose ès rêunions auve des foules dé monde, qué ch’sait chent ou chent chînquante pèrsonnes et pus.
A young boy takes time to chat with the girls during a break in filming. Photo credit: Jersey Evening Post
Even the photographer took his role seriously by dressing for the part. Photo credit: Jersey Evening Post
Mais, dans les chînquantes et souaîxantes, j’avions des milles et des milles Jèrriais tchi pâlaient lus Langue Native touos les jours. Et, i’ y’ avait bein pus d’ întéthêt dans l’Jèrriais dans chu temps-là.
Mais, i’ n’ faut pon pèrdre lé couothage, pa’ce qué nouos Maîtres et Maitrêsses du Jèrriais sont à faithe du raide bouôn travas auve des milles jannes gens touos l’s ans. I’ faut les féliciter et Colin (Ireson) étout, pa’ce qué i’ tait iun des preunmièrs à ensîngni lé Jèrriais.”
“It is a privilege and an honour to be here with you today to celebrate the 75th anniversary since the Assembly was founded in 1951.
I was a child when the first meeting took place in November, and children were not invited to this meeting. But, at the second meeting in January 1952, my two brothers, Douard and Jean, and I were there, and at all the meetings for many years that followed. We left the farm at Portinfer at 7.20pm to be on time for the 8pm meeting at the Agricultural Hall in town.
We had speeches, and then recitations, singing, drama performances and concerts in parish halls around the island. We had people like Amelia Perchard, Eileen Le Sueur, Alice Blampied, Gordon Le Breton, Ben Amy, Emma Syvret and so many others, and I remember a dialogue between Ken Vibert and Margaret de Gruchy. There was also the Annual Service in April at different churches, and of course, the Christmas Carol Service, which continues every year.
One year in the 1990s, I lead the Annual Service at little St George’s Church, and I helped a few times at the Christmas Service as well. When ’Douard and I were working on the farm, we used to sing together at the concerts, usually ‘My Normandy’, and then, when ’Douard moved to England, I sang ‘My Normandy’ with Ben Amy. There were other great occasions like the event when Sir Arthur de la Mare gave a speech at St Martin’s Public Hall about his work as British Ambassador. The hall was full and this was often the case at the meetings with so many people, 100 or 150, or even more. But this was in the 1950s and 60s when there were thousands upon thousands of Jersey people who spoke our native language every day. And there was more interest in Jèrriais in those days.
We mustn’t forget the courage of our Jèrriais teachers who are doing very good work with thousands of young people every year. We mush congratulate them, and Colin (Ireson) too, because he was one of the first to teach Jèrriais.”
L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais are looking forward to the following events, and warmly invite you to join them for:
• Lunch at Maison des Landes in St Ouen on Saturday 11th July at 12.30pm
• Rêunion Annuel (Annual General Meeting) on Saturday 19th September at 2.30pm at St Martin’s Public Hall
If you would like to come along to either of the above events, please contact Ann Marett at maretts@gmail.com or 862447
You can hear and speak Jèrriais every weekday, so please join native speakers and learners on:
MONDAYS Santander Work Café, St Helier 1.00 - 1.50pm
TUESDAYS The Adelphi Pub, St Helier 5.30 - 6.30pm
WEDNESDAYS The Village Café, St Martin 10.30 - 11.30am
THURSDAYS Jersey Museum, St Helier 10.30 - 11.30am FRIDAYS Jersey Pearl, St Ouen 10.30 - 11.30am
À la préchaine! (Until next time)
For further information about Jèrriais, please contact L’Office du Jèrriais at info@jerriais.org.je
Members of L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais in 1955
François Le Maistre at the recent Dîner Annuelle
Current members and supporters of L’Assembliée d’Jèrriais enjoying the recent Dîner Annuelle
Les Laurentins
BOOKMARKS
The Jersey Norman Story 1,000 Years
When the Normandy Region made the decision to celebrate 1,000 years of Norman heritage for the Millennium of the birth of William the Conqueror, Jersey just had to be involved as our loyalty to the Dukes of Normandy stretched from 933 to 1259, continued with the Kings of England and elements of that strong Norman heritage have continued to the present day.
A new publication; The Jersey Norman Story 1,000 years/ L’Histouaithe Nouormande dé Jèrri 1,000 ans by local historian Jean Treleven and Geraint Jennings gives the background to our Norman links along with evidence of Norman heritage that is retained in the island today.
It is bilingual, in both Jèrriais and English, a testament to the strong link with Jersey’s Norman past represented by the Island’s Norman language. It gives students and others the opportunity to discover some of the rich heritage contained within that language as well as discover the Norman story.
Available from:
• The Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche
• The Société Jersiaise bookshop
• The Museum Bookshop
• The Harbour Gallery.
Price £9.99 / By Robyn Conway
This Autumn, we are excited to be publishing a brand new Jèrriais children’s nursery rhyme book entitled Rînmes Rêjouis.
Following the success of the Jèrriais translations of Lé Gruffalo, D’vinnâle dé Marmoûset (Monkey Puzzle), La Maîson Crêpie et Squouîzie (A Squash and a Squeeze) and La Carpéleuse Hardi Affanmée (The Very Hungry Caterpillar), this beautifully illustrated original book is designed to encourage parents and carers to explore Jersey’s native language with younger children.
A History of Shooting in Jersey
Price £10 / By
David Dorgan
This is the story of the sport of shooting in Jersey.
Jersey’s shooting origins began with the need to defend the island and the creation of the Jersey Militia in 1337. The Militia were involved from bows to rifle shooting.
The book begins with the Militia Years from 1337 to 1860. In 1861 and civilian shooting begins. The ranges are covered, together with over ninty names of shooting clubs and associations. The Occupation stopped shooting in 1940.
The next section is devoted to clubs from all areas of shooting from 1945 up to 2026 covering their history, locations and ranges.
Jersey-made guns and gun makers together with some recent gun retailers and an outline of the Firearms Laws from 1879 to the present showing the low nunber of crimes and offences committed, together with some of the strictest firearms regulations anywhere in the world. The Island’s unique honorary sytem of licensing when compared with the UK, is almost world beating in its effectiveness.
There is a listing of Jersey Government Gold and Silver Medal winners from 1863 to1913 with placing names.
Available from:
• Amazon.co.uk, £10.00 ISBN 9781036960834
• The Société Jersiaise
• The book shop in the Central Market
The book launch event will take place as part of the Jersey Festival of Words.
Date: Sunday 20th September
Time: 10am-12pm
Where: Jersey Zoo
Age: Suitable for 0-6 year olds
Please join members of the Jèrriais Teaching Service for themed art and craft activities, facepainting and group singing of nursery rhymes in English and Jèrriais. These activities are free of charge, but normal Zoo admission fees apply. A free copy of the book will be gifted to every family attending.
If you would like to pre-order a copy of the book for £9.99, please contact Robyn Conway at r.conway@jeron.je
Captain Bryan 1877
Price £9.95 / By Jean Treleven and Geraint Jennings
Spring into Summer at Stuart Court
by Elaine Jackson, Home Manager
It has been a vibrant start to the year at Stuart Court, and as the sun begins to linger over St Aubin’s Bay, we are thrilled to share what our residents and staff have been up to lately. From exciting future plans to joyful daily moments, life in our St Lawrence home remains as busy and heartwarming as ever.
We recently announced an exciting “Proposal to Extend and Refurbish Stuart Court”. This project aims to modernise our facilities while increasing our capacity from 28 to 50 rooms. We are committed to preserving the "home from home" atmosphere, and the best part is that all works will be phased so our residents can remain comfortably at home throughout the process.
Sunshine and Smiles: Recent Activities
Our activities programme has been in full bloom this spring:
Musical Moments
We’ve enjoyed wonderful performances from Sam on the saxophone and Alan Trilby on the guitar, bringing plenty of rhythm to our lounges.
Out and About
Residents have taken many trips out to different places. St Peter’s Garden Centre is a favourite to admire the spring flowers, shop and enjoy a coffee.
Special Guests
We’ve been visited by some adorable four-legged friends, including therapy dogs, which always bring out the biggest smiles.
Creative Connections
From flower and sea glass craft sessions to sharing memories of Jersey parades with visiting guests from Jersey Heritage; there is never a shortage of stories to tell around our table.
Making the Most of the Summer
We are making the most of summer on our newly refurbished patio. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon in the summerhouse enjoying the sea breeze or a lively game on the lawn, we are making every sunny moment count.
We want to thank our families, volunteers, and the local community for your continued support. We look forward to many more beach-side coffee trips and garden gatherings as the season continues!
www.mhajersey.org
Serving our community
I have been reading a book by Noreena Hertz called the ‘lonely century’. It has been both an enlightening and at the same time disturbing read about the epidemic of loneliness and isolation that has gripped so many nations and communities around the world, including our own.
Combining years of research along with firsthand reporting and testimonies, the author shows not only the multiple layers to loneliness and its negative impact, but also the empowering and positive effect community, and faith communities, have on our health and wellbeing, among other things. In short, the message is clear: we all need community and we all need to know we belong, whatever our age and stage of life.
For many years, we have built various communities at St Lawrence Parish Church not just on Sundays, but throughout the week. The ‘Smarties’ baby and toddler group, which has run on a Tuesday for over 20 years, continues to draw parents and carers and their children together with fun activities and social connection. Our ‘Gems’ group that meets on alternative Thursdays continues to offer a friendly and warm atmosphere for those who are retired, with refreshments, games and the chance to chat. These are just two of the many groups that meet
in Church during the week, such as the Gospel Sounds Choir, Art Group and Allsorts; all of which are so important for connection and community.
But there are now two more events happening in our Parish.
Every Wednesday from 1-2.15pm, we now have a baby and toddler group at St Matthew’s Glass Church Hall, called ‘Little Lambs: Stay and Play’. This is for children aged 0-4. There are plenty of games, crafts, and activities for little ones to enjoy, followed by a fun session with music, instruments and a parachute! To find out more, please email: children@ stmatthews.je
Also, we are excited that this summer, the Deanery of Jersey will be running a Holiday Club for Primary School aged children, hosted at St Matthew’s Church. This will be run from 24th-26th August from 10-2pm each day. The cost is £30 per child, with £15 for each additional sibling. Tickets will be released at the end of May. If you’d like to know more, or have any questions then please get in touch with cf@jerseydeanery.je
I love how Noreena ends her book: ‘If we are to come together in a world that is pulling apart, nothing less is called for’. It’s true! Nothing less is called for, which is why in a small way, compared to the enormous need, we are offering events and activities like those mentioned above, with a warm and open invitation to all to come along. But in every way, my hope is that in our smallest acts of kindness – a phone call – or our simplest acts of generosity – shopping for a neighbour – we can all play our part in our beloved Parish, ensuring everyone knows they are loved and cared for, and have a place to belong.
Phil Warren Rector
HSBA Garden Railway OPEN DAY
Model Trains capture the imagination of adults and kids alike and there is something particularly special about seeing them running in the garden.
Tucked away in a St Mary back garden is the HSBA Garden Railway, a miniature railway - 4% the size of the real thing - with bridges, stations, beer gardens and even a Pope.
A few times a year, the railway opens to the Island, inviting families, railway enthusiasts, and curious visitors to see the trains in action. The layout features over 138m (455ft) meandering around the garden, over the pond and between the plants. The railway was started in 2021 and has continued to grow both in terms of locomotives and details.
These events help raise money for various local Jersey Charities, including Finni’s Ark, Healing Waves, Jersey Rescue Dogs, Dementia Jersey and Royals RFC. Thanks to the generosity of visitors, the railway has contributed over £17,000 to local organisations that make a real difference in our community.
Our next summer open day this year is on 9th August, and everyone is welcome! Whether you’re a lifelong railway fan or just looking for a fun local outing, come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of the railway while supporting a good cause.
To find out more, visit gardenrailway.je and, in the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram (Just search ‘HSBA Garden Railway’).
Diary Dates Parish Hall
JULY 2026
– 10.30pm
7pm – 10pm
7.30pm 8pm – 10pm
7pm
8pm – 10.30pm
7pm – 10pm
AUGUST 2026
7th
10am – 2pm
8pm – 10.30pm 7pm – 10pm
8pm – 10.30pm 7pm – 10pm
8pm – 10.30pm
Visite du Branchage
Community Market
Social Evening WI
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Social Evening
Battle of Flowers Bingo (doors open 6pm)
Gardening Club
Rates Assembly
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Social Evening
Community Market
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Social Evening
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Social Evening
Simply Ballroom
Bank Holiday – Office Closed
SEPTEMBER 2026
10am – 2pm
7pm – 10pm 7.45pm
8pm – 10.30pm
8pm – 10pm
7pm – 10pm 7.30pm
7pm – 10pm
10am
8pm – 10.30pm
Community Market
Social Evening WI
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Gardening Club
Visite du Branchage
Social Evening
Battle of Flowers Bingo (doors open 6pm)
Social Evening
St Lawrence Ladies Action Group Jumble Sale
Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association
Parish Information
CONNÉTABLE
Tina Palmer - 07797 724042
Parish Office: 861672, Home: 285054
PROCUREURS DU BIEN PUBLIC
Bruce Harrison – 722071
Stephen Linney – 857441
Email: parishhall@stlawrence.je
CENTENIERS
Norman Laverack (Chef de Police)
Jackie Brookfield, Stuart Lusby, Alexandra Winston
Email: honpol@stlawrence.je
DUTY CENTENIER 07797 715602
In case of emergency please also call 999 or 112 and ask for the appropriate Emergency Service.
PARISH HALL OFFICE
Executive Officer: Leasa Nozedar
Assistant Parish Secretary: Emma Woodward
Administration Assistant: Lucie Oakes
Telephone: 861672
Email: parishhall@stlawrence.je www.stlawrence.je
RECTOR ST LAWRENCE AND VICAR ST MATTHEW MILLBROOK
Rev. Phil Warren Tel: 869013
Office Tel: 07829 837997
Office hours: Wed & Thurs 2pm - 4pm
Email: stlawrencechurchjersey@gmail.com
DEPUTIES
Hilary Jeune 07700 700995 h.jeune@gov.je
Kirsten Morel 07797 753101 k.morel2@gov.je
Phil Romeril 7700 722730
Les Laurentins
EDITORIAL E: editorstlawrence@gmail.com
ADVERTISING
Martyn Farley T: 07797 743 191 E: martyn@farley.je
ACCOUNTS
Helen Le Marquand E: helenlm@mediamasters.je
Lawrence
MediaMasters
