… to “Southwest”, your community-focused, free magazine for all the people of St Brelade.
Thank you so much to all our regular and new contributors for the time spent writing articles and collating photographs to share with our readers.
We are now entering our fourth year of publishing “Southwest” and continue to be amazed at the wonderful diversity of activities and opportunities available in our local community. We hope that you enjoy reading about them and are perhaps tempted to get involved.
Our fantastic front cover photograph is of Melvin the Lion who you might meet if you’re involved in the Lions Club of Jersey’s Swimarathon which is taking place at Les Quennevais Pool at the end of March. Find out more on pages 32-33.
We are delighted to have contributions from all four of our Parish Deputies for the last time before Election Day on Sunday 7th June. We thank them for their service to our community for the past four years.
Our young Parishioners have been very busy as usual as you will see in updates by Pathways, 10th St Brelade Scout Group, Mont Nicolle, La Moye School and St Brelade’s Youth Project.
The Jersey Repair Café continues to run events across the Island, preventing
We
edition of
thousands of kilos of waste from being thrown away. Find out more about this on page 34.
If you or someone you know has nautical ambitions, be sure to read page 50 where you’ll find details of the Jersey Clipper Bursary. This award is designed to assist an Islander to fulfil a dream sailing adventure, such as a trip on a tall ship, attending a training course, or competing in a water sports race. Deadline for applications is 30th April.
We welcome new contributions which might encourage readers to get involved, meet new people or try a new skill. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have a club, activity or news to share.
À la préchaine
If you would like to contribute to future editions of Southwest, please email Susan Parker at susiep99@hotmail.com or call 07797 916991. The deadline for the next edition is Tuesday 5th May. All contributions are greatly appreciated.
Pathways
Repair Café
La Moye School
10th Scout Group St Brelade
From elves to ironing, it has been a busy time at the 10th!
Beech Beavers ended the term with a Christmas camp. We were invaded by 2 naughty elves, who did all sorts of tricky things to keep the beavers on their toes, but they still managed to make their own lunches.
Avery special visitor also popped in to visit and even stayed for the investing of our new beavers, which was exciting!
The new term started with lots of fun playing games and the creation of two beaver lodges where the children can start learning leadership and teamwork skills. They have also been looking at the food we eat and what they should do and eat to keep themselves healthy.
Oak Beavers have also had a great start to the term. They visited the town library and had a book scavenger hunt which helped them explore even more. They are now working on their Book Reader badges, where they have to read six books and tell the others all about them, along with making bookmarks and designing a book cover. Very appropriately due to the weather this winter, the Beavers have also made rain sticks and found out about the different flags from other countries.
by Evelyn Langlois – Akela 10th St Brelade Dome Cubs
had when the dens were pelted with our fluffy snowballs. They also learnt how to make a rope on a special jig and made a piece each enabling them to practice their knotting skills at home. Working on their team skills, in their sixes, the Cubs had to build the tallest tower they could from sheets of newspaper and sellotape. The tower had to balance a packet of biscuits on the top. The winning Six won the biscuits with a tower of 62cm tall - well done white Six!
Our Scout group has also been honing their den-building skills. However, their dens were considerably bigger and stronger, but they were still pelted by the same snowballs! The Scouts finished off the term with a trip to the skating rink. This term, the Scouts have been busy getting to grips with life skills like sewing, ironing and changing plugs. They finished the evening with brilliantly ironed scarves and smartly sewn on badges. They have also been busy planning hikes for later in the term, improving their map reading skills.
The Cubs were very busy at the end of the Autumn term in the run up to Christmas; every week there was swimming, coding and cooking going on. We finished the term with a carol sing-song at Maison St Brelade, and then the Cubs played board games with the residents. After Christmas, the Cubs got busy pioneering, learning knots and lashings. Over three weeks, they were challenged to build dens with bamboo poles, rope and tarpaulin. Great fun was
We are a friendly bunch and are always keen to welcome new volunteers, so please do contact Carolyn at c.morgan@scouts.org.je if you can spare any time to join our team.
Pathways
Stronger Together: Learning Through Team Games
by Liz Lambotte
School Session times (term time only)
MONDAYS 6.30pm-8.30pm St Luke’s Year 5, 6 & 7
TUESDAYS 6.30pm-8.30pm Mont Nicolle Year 5, 6 & 7
WEDNESDAYS 7.00pm-9.00pm La Moye Year 8 to 9
THURSDAYS 7.00pm-9.00pm La Moye Year 10+
FRIDAYS 6:30pm-8:30pm Samarès Year 5, 6 & 7
This term, the focus across all our leadership clubs has been team games and team-building activities - and for good reason. Learning how to work as part of a team is a crucial life skill. It encourages collaboration, strengthens communication, and helps build trust among club members.
Team activities offer far more than just physical benefits. Alongside improving fitness, they support mental wellbeing and help young people develop essential social skills such as empathy, leadership and conflict resolution. Most importantly, they’re fun. Taking part boosts morale, increases motivation and teaches valuable lessons in sportsmanship and resilience.
Of course, being part of a team isn’t always easy. It can be frustrating when you want to share your ideas but have to wait your turn to be heard. That’s why it’s important for teams to have a spokesperson or leader - someone who encourages everyone to listen actively, respect different viewpoints and build on each other’s ideas through constructive feedback. Teamwork teaches patience and helps individuals understand that they are not alone; everyone brings different strengths and weaknesses to the group.
Team play also cultivates leadership. As children work towards a common goal, they learn responsibility, discipline and commitment. There’s a shared sense of purpose - and a feeling that you don’t want to let your teammates down.
Differences of opinion are inevitable. Many children feel strongly that their idea is the best, but through open communication and cooperation, teams learn how to reach decisions together. These experiences teach young people how to both win and lose gracefully, respect others and handle setbacks in a positive and constructive way.
Ultimately, team games are about more than just play. They prepare young people for real-life challenges - showing them that when they work together, they can achieve far more than they ever could alone.
Come along and try us out!
Gouldson Finance
Mont Nicolle UPDATE
Headteacher
Springtime is just around the corner at Mont Nicolle School, and with it, we have had an action-packed half term filled with exciting events and learning opportunities for our children.
The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) have organised some fun fundraising events, including a Pyjama and Board Games Day, along with Break the Rules Day later in the term, which the children always look forward to with great excitement! Wear a Scarf Day in February is all about raising awareness of Children’s Mental Health and directly relates to the work we are covering in our personal development curriculum.
Our Year 3 pupils thoroughly enjoyed their five-week session with Caring Cooks, whipping up some mouth-watering banana and blueberry pancakes while learning essential cooking skills and the components of a healthy plate. Many of our children have recreated the Caring Cooks’ recipes at home, showcasing their engagement passion for this aspect of our curriculum.
All year groups are busy in so many ways, and I am sure you will enjoy hearing from the class teachers about school life at Mont Nicolle.
We have also shared a piece from Paul Michel who is a parent at our school and the girls’ football coach. Paul is currently focused on promoting opportunities for girls’ football in Years 4-6. Paul takes the children for training every Friday - come rain or shine - and all their hard work is certainly paying off. We are especially proud of the girls’ tenacity and excellent sportsmanship.
Our boys’ football team is also playing in matches, representing our school with pride. Netballers are navigating their way through the wintry weather, trying to play their fixtures when they can. Again, another example of children being proud and excited to have these opportunities for representing their school.
With so much happening, this term is certainly flying by whilst we all look forward to those fresher and brighter spring days!
Mrs Paul
Nursery
Nursery saw Brooklands Farm featured on the news and wanted to congratulate Kate on the arrival of the newborn piglets during the extreme weather conditions caused by Storm Goretti. The children and staff were inspired by the story and decided to write a poem for the piglets, along with a congratulatory card for the mummy pig and the farmer. The poem began with the word “wind.” The children took part in a brainstorming activity, sharing their ideas and suggesting words such as splat, howl, fences, sheds and branches. These storm-related words reflected the children’s growing understanding of weather and the world around them. The following day, we walked over to the farm and delivered the card to Kate ourselves.
Mrs Moral, Miss Miere and Miss Anderson
Reception
Reception have got straight back into their learning this term and are full of excitement about the projects we have been covering. We have taken part in the Food4Thought programme, which has encouraged each child to try a new piece of fruit and vegetable each day - they have all been super eager, and we have been so proud of them.
Our topics this term have revolved around fantastical creatures, especially dragons and unicorns. However, their curiosity really took flight after we had a visit from the Falconry Club, who introduced us to a barn owl and a falcon. The children asked some great questions and learned lots of facts about both of these incredible animals. They have also loved creating pinecone bird feeders for our resident wild birds and learning all about habitats, which was further inspired by our visit to the Wetlands Centre at St Ouen’s Pond to enjoy some birdwatching. Keep up the great work Reception!
Mr Riva, Miss Kelly, Mrs Hart and Mrs Couley
Year 1
Year 1 pupils have been learning about the life and legacy of Florence Nightingale. In their first lesson, they went out onto the school field for a hands-on activity that encouraged them to explore the importance of cleanliness and hygiene. Through discussion, they learned how Florence Nightingale transformed the care of sick people, and how her understanding of hygiene in hospitals helped to save countless lives. The learning was brought to life when
Year 2
we welcomed a special visitor portraying Florence Nightingale. Pupils took on the role of wounded soldiers from the Crimean War and had the opportunity to ask her thoughtful questions, deepening their understanding of her remarkable work. As part of their learning, pupils have also compared hospitals from 200 years ago with those of the present day, highlighting how much healthcare has changed over time.
Mrs Rowe and Miss Maule
Year 2 have been trying their hands at a plethora of instruments this term, as we are enjoying doing a weekly workshop with Miss Lesley King from the Jersey School of Music. We started the term by looking at percussion instruments and performing a piece of self-composed music. We have progressed to playing recorders and will then learn how to play ukeleles and the pbuzz! We will be practising throughout the Spring Term for our performance to the parents at the end of the term. In Maths, we have been hands on creating arrays to help us to learn our times tables. We have then been practising our times tables online at the same time as practising our ICT skills. We have also been learning about animals and their different habitats in Science, Art and English, and are very much looking forward to our visit to Jersey Zoo at the end of what has been a very busy term.
Mrs Coxshall
Year 4
Year 4 have made a fantastic start to 2026, throwing themselves enthusiastically into their learning across the curriculum. In Science, they have been exploring states of matter through a range of engaging, handson experiments, which the children have absolutely loved. In History, the children have been delving into the fascinating world of Ancient Greece. They have created beautiful pieces of Greek-inspired pottery
Year 3
This term, Year 3 have immersed themselves into the life of the Vikings, learning all about how they conquered so much land and why! We have learnt all about their longships, longhouses, diet and re-enacted some very exciting battles. After half term, Jersey Heritage visited to show us some artefacts and see if there is any evidence of the Vikings in Jersey.
We also took part in a ‘clay day’ to create our own Viking warrior faces. We explored different sculptures, learnt lots of techniques and used an assortment of tools to create shapes, textures, holes and different designs. We have also loved our Science topic this half term, looking at all things light! We have worked hard investigating reflective materials, patterns in shadows and whether objects are opaque, transparent or translucent.
Mrs de Carteret, Mrs Chapman and Miss Hansen
and are eagerly looking forward to their upcoming Ancient Greek Day, which will be packed with exciting and immersive activities. In RE, the children have been learning about Hinduism in Britain, developing their understanding of different beliefs, traditions and communities. In addition to their classroom learning, the children have been taking part in swimming lessons this term, building their confidence, skills and enjoyment in the water.
Miss Goncalves
Mont Nicolle
Year 5
Year 5 have taken part in a two-day training course on Peer Mediation, where they have been learning how to support their peers in resolving disagreements in a calm and fair way. Throughout the training, the children focused on the importance of remaining neutral during difficult situations, listening carefully to all sides, and helping others find positive solutions. They also worked on developing their empathy skills, learning how to put themselves in someone else’s shoes and better understand different perspectives. The children really enjoyed the experience and are keen to use their new skills to help others in the playground.
Miss Waters and Mr Brady
Year 6
As part of our work on the German Occupation of Jersey, at the end of last term we visited the Occupation Tapestry and the Jersey War Tunnels. The children were incredibly interested in learning about this challenging time in the Island’s history and it helped to support our study of local author Penny Bryne’s book, What’s in your pocket, Peg?
The Spring Term saw us start our new topic of crime and punishment in History and we have been fascinated how this has changed since Roman times. In Science, we have been learning about living things and their habitats, linked to classification and the work of Carl Linnaeus. In English, we have been writing our own WWI poem, inspired by the work of Wilfred Owen, which should be good preparation for our move to Year 7.
Mrs Griffin-Keane and Mrs Pinto
Girls’ Football
For the first time, Mont Nicolle have two girls football teams. Inspired by the Lionesses last summer, and with help from supportive parents, 15 children across Years 4, 5 and 6 started training in September. As word spread about how fun girls football can be, a total of 28 children had attended training by the end of first Spring half term.
With a new kit, a whole host of enthusiasm, and new friendships being made across the three year groups, they played their first game at St John’s Primary School at the end of January. The Year 5/6 team lost to a last minute goal, and the Year 4 team narrowly lost to Year 5 team. Despite the results, all the girls loved it and can’t wait to play more games!
Paul Michel – Coach
La Moye School
by John Baudains, Headmaster
Visit from the Bailiff of Jersey, Robert McRae
We had a very special visitor at La Moye School recently when the Bailiff spent the morning with us. The Bailiff came along because he had been a pupil at La Moye School around 50 years ago. He enjoyed a tour of the school, including the older part of the building where he recognised some of the classrooms from his time at the school.
We held a special assembly where he told us about his role and responsibilities as Bailiff. Each class decided on a question to ask, and a child to ask this in the assembly. He said it was like the most intense interview he’d ever had! The children thought of some great questions - from asking his reflections on how the school had changed, to what the most challenging part of his role was, to what he considered the most pressing issues facing Jersey in 2026. He even shared his 5m swimming badge he had been awarded whilst swimming in the old swimming pool at La Moye!
After assembly, he had a tour of the school and grounds and was very impressed with the facilities we have now. He spent some time with the School Council talking to them about democracy and answering their questions too.
The Bailiff wrote to us after he left, explaining how impressed he was with the learning and behaviour of the children whilst at the school. We were very proud to receive such an important letter, with such high praise.
Sporting Success
Our football teams have started to have real success of late, showing considerable improvement in their skills. Our ‘A’ team, following a challenging start to the season, are currently on an impressive eight-game unbeaten streak, including some very impressive recent wins. Our ‘B’ Team have demonstrated marked improvement in both technical skill and tactical awareness, which is now being rewarded with the success their hard work deserves.
While the netball team faced a difficult opening two matches to their season, the players have shown exceptional teamwork and a commendable commitment to improvement. We are sure deserved success will follow soon!
Coming soon is the ever-popular Swimarathon, where we will take over all 8 lanes of Les Quennevais swimming pool during our time slot, and we will also be particpating in the True Grit Wetwheels Challenge at Ronez quarry - a new and challenging yet fun event for us.
Ballet d’Jerri
Our Year 5 classes had a fantastic opportunity over the past four weeks to work with the talented dancers of Ballet d’Jèrri. Throughout the programme, pupils learned classical ballet positions and collaborated to create an original piece inspired by the theme of space.
The final session was a brilliant performance at the Opera House, where the children took to the stage in front of their parents and professional dancers and rose to the occasion fantastically, showcasing confidence and resilience whilst working well as a team.
After the performance, the pupils took part in an insightful Q&A session with the dancers. Their thoughtful, curious questions demonstrated not only how engaged they were throughout the project, but also how inspired they felt by the professionals they had worked so closely with.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Our F1 STEM Racing teams have been tirelessly working behind the scenes in preparation for the very first Jersey Primary School Level competition. The pupils enjoyed an exciting preview of what race day will look like on the track. They also tested their reaction times to help determine who will take the driver’s seat on the big day. The teams have shown fantastic dedication, teamwork and enthusiasm throughout their preparations. By the time you read this, we will have seen them in action at Trinty Showground on Friday 27th February.
Learning at La Moye School is nothing if not varied!
Your Parish Politicians
The Past, Present and Future
by Deputy Helen Miles
This is my final contribution to the Southwest community magazine before the General Election in June, and it therefore offers the opportunity both for some reflection and to look ahead.
It has been a privilege to serve as a Deputy for St Brelade, and to do everything I can to improve our parish and take forward issues that parishioners have raised with me. I have done my very best to represent you and your views in the States Assembly, and to seek logical, common-sense, and community-based solutions to the challenges we face as an island.
I am especially pleased that we have started to make progress towards the regeneration of Les Quennevais Parade and Precinct. I recognise that this area is privately owned, but it is a key community facility and a central part of life in St Brelade. We all have a stake in its future, and we shouldn’t accept its continual decline. Working together, we can deliver positive change. This will require the Government and the Parish to work with residents and businesses to maintain momentum, and to continue constructive dialogue with the landlord. For my part, I am committed to ensuring that this issue remains on the political agenda and that improvements are delivered.
In 2022, I promised to establish a Parish Improvement Project, which was delivered through the Beautiful St Brelade initiative. This project engaged widely with the community and produced a detailed report with recommendations to improve various aspects of parish life. Further progress will require the support of the Connétable, which I hope will be forthcoming in the next political term. There are numerous opportunities for improvements to community life in St Brelade which we are currently missing out on. With positive change and a can-do approach, we can make our wonderful parish even better.
The management of Les Creux by Jersey Property Holdings has been an ongoing frustration and, frankly, leaves a lot to be desired. It is disappointing that Les Creux remains empty, nearly a year after the tender process to find a new tenant commenced. I have raised questions throughout the process and will continue to do so until Les Creux is back in operation as a community facility. In future, the Government must improve the way it manages and leases community facilities such as Les Creux.
Credit must go to the Infrastructure team, however, for the improvements we have seen in recent months to the maintenance of the Railway Walk, and the area at the top of Pont du Val. There has been notable progress in the level of general maintenance, which is to be welcomed and is something we can build on.
I would like to thank parishioners in St Brelade for your support and engagement over the last four years. St Brelade is my home and, whatever the future holds, I will always do everything I can to improve life in our parish, and to celebrate everything that makes Jersey such a special place to live.
Achievements and Lessons Learned
Serving as one of your Deputies has been challenging, but it has also been an immense privilege.
My political priorities have focused on putting forward or supporting proposals to curb wasteful public spending and to advance affordable living through measures aimed at improving our stagnant economy.
In my Assistant Minister role, I have recently delivered:
• a new cybersecurity law and framework for future cyber policy
• a new law and regulations modernising protections for intellectual property rights
• a report recommending urgent progression of proposals to introduce a Public Services Ombudsman to improve public services and complaint handling.
The Ministerial Code of Conduct has applied to me despite my having far less political power and involvement in decision making than members of the Council of Ministers. This has been frustrating at times.
As my term as Parish Deputy comes to a close, here are some things I have learned:
1. Political change is slow. My proposition to extend Pension Plus benefits to low income pensioners took over three years to bear fruit.
2. Constructive, factual input from Parishioners often achieves more than social media debates: the Pension Plus idea originated from a Parishioner who visited a surgery I held in 2022.
3. Nobody shares identical views. I was one of four States Members who voted against increasing the minimum wage for apprentices; the decision later was reversed after apprenticeships were lost.
4. Ideological positions often backfire. I recently lodged a proposition to review a policy requiring private developers to subsidise affordable housing, which has contributed to stalling apartment developments.
by Deputy Moz Scott
5. Solutions are rarely simple. Affordable living is affected by local employers struggling to compete in a small island and a global marketplace. I have challenged claims that public funds given to unproductive agencies or uncompetitive businesses benefit the economy.
6. I am not a natural orator. Often those who sound convincing have not thought issues through.
7. As a supporter of reinstating the Senatorial role, the best argument I heard is that it ensures the Chief Minister has broad support.
8. Parishioners should clarify their priorities before voting. One Parishioner who opposed removing the Senatorial role told me she had previously voted for a candidate who campaigned for its removal.
9. The Constable is your best first point of contact for Parish matters. If needed, a Parish Deputy can step in.
10.Serving as a Deputy can be hectic and noisy. Meditation, piano playing and churchgoing help preserve my inner peace.
11. Please use your vote in the next election. Campaigning requires personal funds, private donors, or union backing. If you value a candidate, they will value your help.
My thanks to all Parishioners who have supported me. Until the next election on Sunday 7th June, my drop in surgery continues at the Branch Library at Communicare every second Monday at 10.30am. Dates and times are on statesassembly.je. I remain contactable at m.scott5@gov.je or 07797 714328
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50 Years of
Communicare
by Deputy Montfort Tadier
Later this year, Communicare will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the years, it has provided friendship, help and support to the thousands of individuals and families who have passed through its doors.
For three generations of Westies, it has been a nursery, a health facility, a youth centre, a church, a friendship club, an assembly room and even a temporary banking hub. For the past 17 years, it has also been a place for me to meet constituents and discuss local issues.
Between 1960 and 1970, Les Quennevais rapidly transformed from sandy dunes into a busy suburban hub. New homes were built at Clos des Sables, the new Les Quennevais School opened its doors in 1965, the Quennevais Sports Hall was built in 1970 and the estate at Don Farm followed soon after.
In 1972, the Anglican and Methodist churches serving St Brelade realised that having a multi-purpose community centre here would be a valuable community asset. It was to be a physical space that provided social and pastoral services for all.
The website for St Brelade’s Church describes its mission: “Communicare is uniquely placed to provide the St Brelade
community with many of the caring and social activities it needs. The ethos of the centre is to provide these things in a loving and hospitable manner, with a gentle Christian presence which is clear without being zealous!”
Over the years, many good people have been involved in the work of the centre, whether through charities, youth clubs or the many activities provided for adults and pensioners. Someone who truly embodied the ethos of community and care was the much loved Captain John Le Page. He was a regular visitor at La Moye School, often attending assemblies as a guest, and he always came across as a very kind and gentle man. He served for 27 years, including as prison chaplain, before retiring in 2003.
Today, the centre is well served by Tony Hocking and his team. Together, they oversee activities as diverse as needlework and a bridge club, as well as charities such as Dementia Jersey and Family Nursing & Home Care. It is also home to the St Brelade’s Youth Project, Brighter Futures, and of course the Quennevais Branch Library, to name just a few.
I am sure there will be more than one occasion for us to celebrate Communicare’s first 50 years, but for now I would like to say a big thank you to all those involved with the centre, past and present, for their great work at the heart of our St Brelade community. Happy Birthday - and here’s to another 50 years!
m.tadier@gov.je / 07797 844358
Captain John Le Page, Church Army Officer at Communicare in December 1978
Photo courtesy of Jersey Evening Post Collection held at Jersey Archive
Deputy Tadier with a Parishioner at a drop-in surgery
Captain John Le Page, warden of the Communicare Centre in 2000
Under the Microscope
This is my final piece for Southwest magazine before the elections in June, so I would like to start by saying that it has been an absolute privilege to be one of your representatives in the States.
Easily the best part of the job has been meeting Parishioners, hearing your concerns and trying to do something about them. Sometimes it is the small things that count - helping sort out accommodation for someone whose bathroom flooded over Christmas, getting a hedge cut back to improve visibility at a dangerous junction or sorting out a problem with social security.
I have pushed forward wider environmental issues as much as I can, like finding a decent community use for the Les Creux Bowls Club and the surrounding country park. It has not been easy and, at the time of writing, the situation regarding the Bowls Club building is still frustratingly unresolved. It is now two years since the building was vacated and, as it gently deteriorates, I continue to lament the way in which community energy is dissipated by government processes that fail to deliver transparent and timely outcomes.
I continue to work towards improvements at the La Sergenté railway walk crossing and along Mont de La Pulente. Things take longer than they should and government needs to be much more responsive to day-to-day issues that may seem minor but represent significant improvements in everyday life.
Now for something completely different...
When I came back to live in Jersey in 2019, one of my ambitions was to get to know the Parish better. Realising that ambition has taken many forms, but one of them has been through taking photographs that focus on less well-known features of the natural world.
Everyone knows that St Brelade's coastline is a jewel in the island's crown, but there is also an array of unusual “micro landscapes” that
by Deputy Jonathan Renouf
can be found if you look closely enough and they contain their own startling beauty. I’m talking about such delights as rotting seaweed. Lichen colonies. Mineral concretions. Salt crystals. Sea anemones.
I’ve spent a lot of time over the last couple of years trying to capture those secret landscapes, and I want to say a thank you to all those who have bumped into me and taken the time to ask questions as I grub around on my hands and knees peering at something that is almost invisible. I've had some fascinating conversations, sparked by my unusual hobby.
All I’d say in my defence is, we all need something to help us get away from politics!
Finally, thank you to all those who have offered words of support over the last four years. Away from the extremes of social media, what has struck me is the kindness and sense of community that thrives throughout our Parish.
j.renouf4@gov.je / jonathanrenouf.je
Something for everyone
historical harbour-view dining
Perfect for: refined local dining in historical surroundings, romantic moments & stunning sea views in a elegant yet relaxed harbour-view setting.
Location: st aubin’s village
Mont du Boulavard, St Aubin, www.somervillejersey.com
candlelit grills & sunset moods
Perfect for: candlelit sunset dinners, sun-soaked lunches & mouth-watering international grills in a relaxed yet classy setting overlooking the ocean.
Location: st aubin’s bay
Le Mont Felard, St Lawrence www.cristinajersey.com
quality comfort food by the beach
Perfect for: delicious local seafood, juicy British meats, wholesome vegetarian & vegan meals in a relaxed fuss-free beachfront setting.
Location: st brelade’s bay
La Route de la Baie, St Brelade 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, www.somervillejersey.com
azur moods & relaxing tunes
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 www.cristinajersey.com
beachside coffee, cake & cocktails!
Perfect for: artisanal coffee, home-made cake, fresh juices, shakes, cocktails & craft local brews in a shorts & t-shirt setting right on the beach.
Location: st brelade’s bay
La Route de la Baie, St Brelade www.labrise.je Tel: 01534 491242
Youth Project St Brelade’s
by Stacy Benstead
The new year is well underway, and St Brelade’s Youth Project has got off to a vibrant start! Here’s a look at what our young people have been getting up to and what’s coming next.
Highlights from Winter 2025
YOSCARS Celebration Evening
We recently held our annual YOSCARS Celebration, an event dedicated to recognising the achievements and contributions of the young people at St Brelade’s Youth Project. Throughout the year, young people work towards either a Bronze, Silver or Gold YOSCAR Award, depending on their participation, enthusiasm and positive impact within the club.
To mark their achievements, we transformed the youth club into a special black carpet celebration venue. The evening included food, quizzes, music, certificate presentation, and plenty of time to celebrate each young person’s hard work. It was a fantastic night that truly showcased the commitment, creativity, and growth of our young people. The atmosphere was full of pride - not only from the staff team, but from the young people cheering each other on. Events like the YOSCARS highlight just how much the St. Brelade’s Youth Club community supports, motivates, and celebrates its members.
Sailing Trip Celebration
Following our incredible sailing trip, we recently held a special celebration evening to recognise the young people’s hard work, commitment and achievements throughout the programme. It was a proud moment for everyone involved.
We were honoured to welcome the Lieutenant Governor, who joined us to present certificates and a trophy to the participants. This visit marked the first time the Lieutenant Governor had visited a youth club in Jersey, making it an especially meaningful occasion for us. The young people truly rose to the occasion.
During the celebration, they shared presentations about their experience - highlighting their favourite parts of the trip, the challenges they overcame and the new skills they gained. Together, we reflected on the positive impact the project has had on their confidence, learning, participation and future aspirations. It was a wonderful reminder of how powerful these opportunities can be in supporting our young people to grow and thrive.
Indoor Skate Sessions
With the winter weather being so unpredictable, we’ve moved several of our skate sessions indoors to make sure young people still have a safe, dry space to practice their skills. The hall has become a great hub for skaters of all abilities, giving everyone the chance to stay active, keep progressing and spend time with friends throughout the colder months.
What’s Happening in 2026
We’re busy planning an exciting programme for 2026, including more skate jams, hands on workshops and plenty of new opportunities for young people to get involved, learn and have fun. There’s lots to look forward to - watch this space!
Our programme continues to grow, with sessions running both at St Brelade’s Youth Club and at the skatepark. This term, we’re excited to launch a new Wednesday session called Skate & Create.
Skate & Create (Year 7+)
Designed for young people who want to stay active and get creative, this session offers indoor skating during the winter months, plus opportunities to explore photography, videography, graffiti art, editing and more. It’s a perfect blend of movement and creativity.
Meet the Team & Get Involved
Our Youth Project is powered by a dedicated team who bring a wide range of skills and passions to our community. We’re always happy to welcome new volunteers, whether you have experience working with young people or simply want to make a positive impact.
If you’d like to find out more about volunteering, please get in touch. Join us in supporting and inspiring the young people of St. Brelade!
Located on the edge of the Jersey National Park in St Ouen, Maison des Landes Hotel and Community Hub is nestled amidst breathtaking countryside and offers panoramic sea views.
Built around a strong sense of community and run by a charitable trust, we have recently celebrated 60 years of welcoming locals and visitors to the island, with the very best in modern design to provide a fully inclusive environment.
Want to try a new restaurant?
You’re in for a treat! Chef Sachin and his team proudly create fresh, locally sourced dishes at very reasonable prices. We also welcome group lunch and afternoon tea bookings. Join us for lunch on Easter Sunday, we’d love to see you!
Fancy a break?
Relax and recharge whilst enjoying the tranquil gardens and uninterrupted coastal views. Swim in our indoor hydrotherapy pool, maintained at 33 degrees, which is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. With 15 out of 23 rooms adapted to suit a range of needs, everything has been thought through.
Looking for somewhere different for an event or special occasion?
Our stunning venue is perfect for a wedding or special occasion, wellness retreat, corporate offsite, or private event in a calm, natural setting.
At Maison des Landes, our guests come first. Friendly, dedicated and always willing to go the extra mile, our staff team take genuine pride in what they do, and nothing is too much trouble.
During April and May, we’re offering over 50% OFF a delicious two-course evening meal and a choice of full English or continental breakfast.
• £129 per night for 2 adults
• £85 per night for 1 adult
• £99 per night for 1 adult and 1 child
• plus £20 per night per child
These offers are open to Jersey residents only and are valid for stays during availability at time of booking.
To book please call the hotel directly on 01534 481683 or email reservations@maisondeslandes.co.uk
What Was but What If…
Extracted from We Shall Eat Grass
A compendium of myths, mysteries and minutiae of the only German Occupation of British Soil.
By the autumn of 1944 the Channel Islands are starving but on 27 September, Winston Churchill writes: ‘I am totally opposed to our sending any rations to the Channel Islands for the civil population thus enabling the German garrison to prolong their resistance.’
Then, not for the first time, the prime minister has a change of heart. “If they’re starving,” he barks. “We must invade. I recall Mountbatten had a plan, Operation Condor. Get it dusted off!”
Despite immediate objections from the Chiefs of Staff that the Channel Islands are irrelevant to the thrust towards the heart of the German Reich, Churchill points out that the alternative is to send food to the Islands. “Any such sustenance will be seized upon by the Boche. A show of real force should be sufficient.”
Churchill is insistent and Mountbatten’s plans from 1943 are revisited.
Churchill himself proposes a task force comprising the battlecruiser HMS Renown and the Jutland veterans HMSs Royal Sovereign and Resolution, all currently in home waters, supported by a screen of antisubmarine destroyers.
“These islands are truly impregnable fortresses,” Churchill is warned.
He retorts, “Manned by a garrison that is hungry. They may be materially strong but spiritually they are weak. It can be done! It will be done!”
“Inevitably there will be civilian casualties,” Churchill is warned again.
“Surely they will be few, particularly if the attack takes place before dawn on a Sunday. This can be done! See to it!”
Thus plans are laid. The show of force will take place at dawn on Sunday, 8 October.
At 0630 Central European Time on Sunday, 8 October, the approach of three heavy units with escorts moving at high speed towards Jersey is reported by the Würzburg radar situated at Guernsey’s Fort George .
The invasion of the Channel Islands is nigh and within an hour the entire German forces in Jersey have retreated to their underground shelters and bunkers.
It is still dark at 0745 CET when HMSs Royal Sovereign and Resolution open fire on Jersey with their main armament, each firing three full broadsides. Their targets are Batterie Lothringen
It is understood that Admiral Friedrich Hüffmeier, commander-in-chief of the German forces in the Channel Islands, in April 1945 and despite Germany’s defeat being inevitable, stated to Jersey’s Bailiff Alexander Coutanche that ‘you and I will be eating grass before I surrender’. Even if that’s a myth, it makes a good title.
Compiled by Peter Tabb
What if… PART 3
at Noirmont Point, the airport and St Helier’s harbour installations, areas believed to be largely free of civilians
Several shells miss their targets and cause major damage in the town behind the harbour and in the countryside around the airport. A few civilians, although less than a dozen, caught in the open while hurrying to shelter, are killed but no member of the garrison suffers any injury.
The bombardment is halted at 0800 CET.
In the Royal Court House in St Helier, a stunned Bailiff Coutanche, who has just arrived behind his desk because of the curfew, telephones the Platzkommandantur but receives no response. He hurries down to the Royal Square where he is joined by Charles Duret Aubin, the AttorneyGeneral, still wearing a pyjama jacket under his overcoat.
Duret Aubin is aghast. “Surely we are not under attack, Mr Bailiff?”
“It seems, Charles, that we are…”
“Where are the Germans?”
“They must have gone to ground. Like the rats they are…”
In the aftermath of the brief bombardment, the breaking silence is eerie.
At that moment a signal is being received at the Kriegsmarine wireless station at St Jacques in Guernsey from the GOC Southern Command advising Generalmajor Graf von Schmettow that the subjugation of the Channel Islands has commenced with a bombardment of military targets on Jersey. Further bombardments will follow unless the garrisons indicate their immediate intention to surrender. The signal concludes that the
Kernwerk St Peter
Louis-Mountbatten
HMS Royal Sovereign
German will be held responsible for any civilian casualties. The German commander-in-chief has an hour in which to make up his mind.
In Guernsey von Schmettow mutters, “They are killing their own people.”
“They will claim that we are letting them be killed, Herr Generalmajor.” The dry comment is made by von Schmettow’s chief-of-staff, Vizeadmiral Friedrich Hüffmeier.
Von Schmettow raises an eyebrow. “Are you suggesting we comply, Friedrich?”
Hüffmeier flushes. “Certainly not! Our ultimate victory is certain, Herr Generalmajor. We must not weaken now.”
“Then what do you suggest, Friedrich?”
“We fight back, Herr Generalmajor.”
“The Tommies are out of range of our guns, Friedrich, even Batterie Mirus… We are facing an enemy we cannot fight…” Yet to surrender would be regarded by Berlin as treason, with untold consequences for the families of the men who had committed it.
“Herr Generalmajor, I suggest we sit out any assault. The defences are quite capable of withstanding this type of bombardment. If the Tommies attempt a landing, then we will annihilate them on the beaches…”
“What about the Islanders?”
“Their fate is in the hands of their countrymen. It is my suggestion that we remind the British of that.” He looks at his watch. “Before their deadline…”
Von Schmettow confers with his senior officers. In the tobacco smoke-filled headquarters there is no talk of surrender but concern at the number of civilian casualties.
“It is war,” Vizeadmiral Hüffmeier retorts.
“Quite so,” agrees von Schmettow. “Nevertheless I propose that we seek an armistice…”
Vizeadmiral Hüffmeier is outraged. “An armistice! This is treason!”
“Friedrich, Friedrich…” von Schmettow soothes. “Hear me out. What I propose is an armistice, for 48 hours, to allow the Britsih to discuss with us the evacuation of the civilian population…”
“The Führer will never agree. The civilian populations are an important bargaining counter…”
“Indeed, Friedrich. But we cannot be held to blame for the consequences if our offer is refused…”
“But just 48 hours? How will the Tommies evacuate more than 60,000 civilians in just 48 hours?”
“They will have to find a way.” Von Schmettow chuckles. “I recall they withdrew more than 300,000 combatants from Dunkirk in a matter of days. And this time there will be no-one shooting at them.”
“The man’s a fantasist!” Winston Churchill is still in his silk pyjamas although a cigar is already clamped between his teeth. Brendan Bracken gently disagrees. “Not necessarily, Prime Minister. I suspect he recognises that having some 65,000 British civilians at his mercy gives him significant bargaining power…”
“Not with me, it doesn’t!” The PM turns to his naval adviser. “Could it ever be possible? To evacuate so many civilians in just two days?”
Admiral Cunningham scratches his jaw. “In theory, yes. But in practice, no.”
Churchill paces the Cabinet Room pausing to stare out at Downing Street.
Eventually he speaks. “Gentlemen, I have decided. Notify the Germans that we agree that the International Red Cross feed the civilian population.” A blast of cigar smoke. “Give the order to the Navy to withdraw. Tell the admiral ‘well done’.”
The foregoing is a work of fiction. It did not happen but it might have done.
The foregoing is a work of fiction. It did not happen but it might have done.
“What Was but What If” will be published later this year.
Wurzburg Radar
Measure of Champions
Champion trees are exceptional examples of their species. More specifically, a champion tree is typically classified as such by its size, relative to other specimens of the same species in the same geographical area – whether global, national, regional or local. Age, rarity and historical or cultural importance are further factors that can lead to a tree gaining champion status.
These specimens are crucial to the wellbeing and preservation of their local ecosystems. For context, a normal healthy mature tree supports hundreds of wildlife species while sequestering something like 20-40kg of carbon annually (a very approximate figure before considering size, species, methodology etc). Therefore, you can ramp up these numbers for a healthy champion.
Champion trees also provide important information about genetics and resilience traits such as drought tolerance, disease resistance and structural stability. All of these are considerations when cultivating, which, unsurprisingly, is another of their uses.
We can’t talk about champion trees without a nod to their cultural and historical importance. They’re a symbol of cultural heritage, often acting as landmarks and providing identity to an area, as well as being a source of interest, engagement and education to the local community and visitors from further afield.
Standardised measurement methods differ by country. In the British Isles we measure the tree’s girth (circumference) at a height of 1.5m above ground level on the upper side of any slope. Height is measured formally using a hypsometer or clinometer, although more traditional (i.e. non-technological) techniques can be used to approximate.
Although by no means universal, many countries have systems and processes to identify and register their champion trees. In our region, Tree Register of the British Isles (TROBI) is responsible for granting this status. Around 80,000 British and Irish trees are currently listed, of 275,000+ on its database.
TROBI is a registered charity run by volunteers. Despite the practical limitations this brings, they visited Jersey in 2003 and again in 2013 to undertake assessments, updating the database to include around 500 local specimens in total. While some are sure to have since been lost to Storm Ciáran, many more will be unidentified.
Appreciating the incredible work TROBI does, Jersey Trees for Life is contributing by providing information about our island’s finest arboreal examples. Its volunteers have started assessing potential candidates for champion status and, from spring, when trees are easier to identify and far more photogenic, the mission will begin in earnest. Potential champions include a bearded alder at the Alder Collection (Alnus glutinosa subsp. barbata), a handkerchief tree (Davidia involucrata) at Rozel Valley and a magnificent Chinese swamp cypress (Glyptostrobus pensilis) at Val de la Mare.
The charity is also contributing to an upcoming JEP series profiling prominent local trees.
If you think you have a champion tree, or know of one in the island, let us know at admin@jerseytreesforlife.org
A potential champion silver lime in Coronation Park.
A handkerchief tree in bloom – there’s a champion handkerchief tree at Rozel
The largest of the four Chinese swamp cypresses at Val de la Mare Arboretum, the only known genetically diverse specimens of their type in the northern hemisphere.
(credit: Oldiefan (Pixabay)
In Custer’s Boots
St Brelade Parishioner Gordon Richard was born in 1935 in Jersey, was educated at Victoria College and later gained a degree in English History.
Gordon took an early interest in William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, whose family originated from Jersey, and through him to George A. Custer and the Battle of the Little Horn, which he has studied for over 50 years.
Gordon has written articles for the Custer Battlefield Historical & Museum Association and the Custer Association of Great Britain. In 2014, he co-authored “Fights on the Little Horn, Unveiling the Mysteries of Custer’s Last Stand”, published by Casemate Publishers.
Gordon’s new book, “In Custer’s Boots, The Little Bighorn Campaign, Revelations, Reconstructions and Reviews” recently been published and is available to purchase on amazon.co.uk
The book’s publication in the USA later this year will tie in with the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Little Bighorn which took place on 25th June 1876.
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.
The Jèrriais Section of the Jersey Eisteddfod took place at the end of January at St Ouen Parish Hall. Over 150 young people from primary and secondary schools across the Island took part in the junior event, performing poems, songs and sketches in Jersey’s native language on the stage in front of an audience of fellow participants, family members, teachers and supporters, plus the adjudicator, Professor Mari Jones from Cambridge University, and her assistant, Colin Ireson.
One of the world’s leading polyglots, Richard Simcott, flew all the way from Madeonia to recite a poem in Jèrriais as part of the adult event. Poly is Greek for “many” and glot means “tongue” – and Richard is internationally recognised for studying over 50 languages to a high degree of proficiency. He began learning Jèrriais about 18 months ago with an online beginners’ course taught by Aline Cattermole from Jersey Heritage, and has since become an advocate for our native language.
During his visit to Jersey, Richard commented, “Sometimes in life, you can feel as if you’re flying around like a paper bag in the wind, but language can give you an anchor. And with Jersey surrounded by sea, it’s good to have a strong anchor so you don’t fly off in the storms!”
He went on to say in a recent blog on his website speakingfluently. com, “For me, learning Jèrriais does a few useful things: it gives you another lens on Jersey’s history and identity, it makes place names and local expressions feel less opaque, […] and it also pushes you to slow down and listen, and that matters.”
If you are interested in embarking on your own Jèrriais learning journey, you can access a free subscription to the uTalk app:
1. Go to www.jerriais.org.je then click the English menu drop down, and select Learn
2. Scroll down and select Adult Learning, then Learning Resources
3. Under Online Apps, please complete the very short registration form under the uTalk logo with your name and email address
4. You will be taken to a special uTalk page to create an account using the same email address and a new password. You should receive a verification email to complete set up
5. Download the free uTalk app onto your phone, tablet or laptop
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
JCG student Mya Primrose, being awarded a trophy by native speaker Brian Vibert
Richard Simcott with his gold Eisteddfod certificate awarded by adjudicator Professor Mari Jones
St Brelade
Household recycling collection 2026
This guide explains how to use the St. Brelade household recycling collection. A collection planner is included so you know when your recycling will be collected. Every home in St. Brelade receives a recycling collection, in addition to the existing rubbish and glass collections. Recycling collections will be on the same day as your refuse.
Collection Planner 2026
Please fill the recycling boxes with your:
• Mixed paper and card: blue box/bin with blue sticker
• Plastic bottles: red box/bin with red sticker
• Metal packaging: black box/bin with black sticker
Newspapers
Cardboard packaging and boxes - cut up large pieces of card
Around a third of Jersey’s waste is currently recycled, together we can improve on this.
Everything we collect for recycling is sent for recycling and the parish of St. Brelade is making it even easier for you to reduce your waste and recycle more.
paper -recommended for confidential papers
✓ Greeting cards ✘ No thank you
Milk or drink cartons
Polystyrene or plastics
Your glass bin You are required to provide your own bin for glass
✓ Yes please
✓ Glass bottles
✓ Glass jars
✓ Broken glass
>Please rinse
> Remove corks, caps or lids
>Remove plastic labels (paper labels can be left on) ✘ No thank you
Plastic bags
Lightbulbs*
Ceramics (cups, mugs, plates,etc.)*
Electrical/ electronic goods*
Cardboard
General rubbish
*These items should not be thrown away with your general rubbish and should be taken to the Household Reuse & Recycling Centre at La Collette, thank you.
With a strong focus on preventative care, we provide high quality contemporary dentistry in an environment with charm. We believe our patients should have access to trusted resources at any time and our new website is designed with this in mind. Please contact us if you would like help with any aspect of your oral care. We look forward to meeting you or continuing your care.
We’re excited to announce that 32Co clear aligners are now available at our clinic in Jersey, Channel Islands. 32Co is a UK-based, expert-led clear aligner system that helps you straighten your teeth with nearly invisible, custom-made aligners. What sets 32Co apart is its collaborative approach: treatment is planned with the support of specialist orthodontists to deliver predictable, high-quality results that fit your goals — all with comfortable, removable aligners that are tailored to you.
Lions Swimarathon 2026
by Lion Peter Tabb
The Lions Swimarathon 2026 will be taking place at Les Quennevais Pool from Wednesday 25th to Sunday 29th March.
This popular fundraising event has raised almost £4 million since it began as the Jersey Lions Sponsored Swim in 1972. The first event, which was held at the Fort Regent Pool and devised for the Lions by Jersey Swimming Club, was originally intended to be a one-off. Since then, the Swimarathon has become a much-loved annual event which involves more than 2,500 swimmers taking part over five days.
The Lions Club of Jersey Swimarathon held the Guinness World Record for money raised from sponsored swimming for several years in the mid-1970s and eventually lost its title to the British Commonwealth Games Association which, following guidance given to them by our local Swimarathon organisers, ran a very successful event of their own to raise funds for the Edinburgh Games!
For the past 30 years, the poolside entertainment has been provided by Geof Dingle, who acts as DJ and MC for the event and was President of the Lions Club of Jersey in 2008. If you are taking part, remember to bring your song requests to Geof at the deep end of the pool!
Each year, the Swimarathon supports charities under a different theme and this year’s theme is Diversity and Inclusion with 17 local charities set to receive a share of the funds raised.
“We received numerous applications,” said Lion Andrew Pearce whose Community Service Committee had the difficult decision of choosing the beneficiaries, “and the total sum applied for amounted to nearly £500,000. This is way beyond what has ever been raised by a Swimarathon, but we ourselves wish to be as inclusive as possible, so we have chosen as many beneficiaries as practicable, although we shall have to wait to see how much is raised before confirming the funds each charity will be given.”
This year’s beneficiaries are Acorn Enterprises, Autism Jersey, Beresford Street Kitchen, Every Child Our Future, Family Nursing & Home Care, Freeda, Happy Heroes, Healing Waves, Jersey Childcare Trust, Jersey Eating Disorder Support, Les Amis, MND Association, Music in Action, Parkinson’s Jersey, Silkworth Group, Variety Club and Wetwheels
Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Titan Wealth, every penny raised by the swimmers will be donated to the beneficiary charities and other good causes. The Swimarathon is a wonderful event which provides an opportunity for us all to enjoy what is great about our small community.
For more information, find us on Facebook and Instagram at Lions Swimarathon Jersey. If you’re interested in getting involved, volunteering at next year’s event or entering a team, please contact us at administrator@lionsswimarathon.org
Repair Café
by Simon Langlois, Co-organiser
Returning to our home parish of St Brelade where the Repair Café started five years ago, our first Jersey Repair Café event of the year was at Les Quennevais School in January.
Three of our regular musicians performed on stage - Colin Lever, ‘Foolish Things’ Mia and Arthur, and G<2>A Garry and Art (but we didn’t tell their young back-up singer that his mic wasn’t plugged in).
Equally popular was our amazing team of volunteers making teas, coffees, homemade cakes and cookies. They’re all free, as are all the repairs we do - what’s not to like!
We had our regular repairers of electricals, tech, fabrics and wood, and the biggest clock we’ve ever seen! Our specialist jewellery and leather goods repairers Louise and Mick were there too, along with Del on our Tech Help & Advice desk.
As there’s always a risk of shock from faulty electrical items, Mike was PAT testing all electrical items as they came in (and before they went out again), and to keep everyone safe, 4Safety is going to run another of their excellent PAT Testing training courses for us soon.
If you have any specialist repair skills yourself, we’d love to hear from you. We’re particularly keen to have a volunteer clock repairer join us. We might ask on our TikTok page!
We always like to encourage youngsters, so we were very pleased to be joined by a young man wanting to volunteer as part of his Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award. For safeguarding, anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by a responsible adult, but they are most welcome!
At our next two events at Les Quennevais School in May and September this year, working with Paddy Crawley Hall), we’re hoping to get students to come along and see how our everyday ‘things’ can be repaired and given a new lease of life.
We have finally conceded to have some JRC ‘merch’ - mugs! In return for a suggested minimum donation, you’ll be able to take home and treasure your very own JRC mug. What a great conversation starter, so you can tell your friends and family all about the Jersey Repair Café!
For more information, please join our Facebook group Jersey Repair Café or look at our web page www.repaircafe.org.je
2026 EVENT DATES
Saturdays 9.30am to 1pm
Grouville Parish Hall
Trinity - Philip Mourant Ctre
Les Quennevais School
St. Martin Public Hall
St. Helier - Janvrin School
St. Peter Parish Hall
Grouville Parish Hall
Grouville Parish Hall 27 June 18 July 15 August 5 September 26 September 17 October 7 November 28 November 12 December
St. Helier - St. Paul's Centre
Les Quennevais School
St. Saviour Parish Hall
St. Helier - Janvrin School
St. Lawrence Parish Hall
All dates and venues subject to change. Check online for latest news.
Many hands make light work! Thomas being ably assisted by its owner
with Evolution Eye Care Advanced Vision Correction
Specialist-led laser and lens treatments now established in Jersey
Islanders seeking freedom from glasses or contact lenses can now access expert vision correction closer to home. Led by renowned refractive surgeon Mr Mike Tappin, Evolution Eye Care’s Vision Correction Service has become an established part of its regular clinic schedule.
Patients considering treatment are assessed in Jersey directly by Mr Tappin – the same surgeon who would perform their procedure.
Mr Tappin is a leading surgeon with over 30 years’ experience in refractive surgery. He conducts clinics in Jersey, and operates at Prema, a state-ofthe-art surgical facility in Portsmouth operated by Laser Vision UK. Prema is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Southampton airport, with three modern hotels next door if accommodation is required.
“Our goal is to make the vision correction process as seamless and reassuring as possible for Jersey patients,” said Mr Tappin. “By combining consultations onisland with surgery at Prema, patients on our collaborative pathway receive the convenience of local care, with the safety and reassurance of a leading UK surgical environment.”
“It’s important that patients meet the surgeon who will perform their procedure,” added Mr Anish Shah, co-founder of Evolution Eye Care. “That continuity builds trust and ensures decisions are always made in the patient’s best interests.”
Genuine Advice, Not Sales
Some refractive clinics offer free consultations. This can create pressure to convert enquiries into surgery, just to cover costs. At Evolution Eye Care, a £99 vision correction consultation fee reflects a commitment to transparency, allowing the clinic to provide honest, impartial guidance –even if the best recommendation is not to proceed with surgery.
“Charging a modest consultation fee allows us to offer genuine advice rather than sales-driven opinions,” said Mr Shah. “Our patients receive clarity, not persuasion.”
Modern Technology and Trusted Standards
Prema is equipped with modern, regularly serviced laser and surgical equipment, maintained to the rigorous standards required by the UK Care Quality Commission (CQC). This ensures every procedure is performed with the precision, safety, and reliability expected of the UK’s top ophthalmic centres.
Established Expertise, Local Convenience
Jersey patients are already benefiting from this trusted and convenient pathway, exploring laser vision correction or lens replacement surgery with world-class expertise and modern technology – all coordinated through Jersey’s largest private eye clinic.
For more information or to book a consultation, visit www.evolution.je/book email info@evolution.je, or call 01534 835400
1st Floor
Little Grove Clinic
Rue de Haut St Lawrence JE3 1JZ
Mr Mike Tappin, Consultant Ophthalmic, Corneal and Laser Refractive Surgeon
Procedures are carried out at the purposebuilt, state-of-the-art Prema clinic
LBX
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La Haule’s Next Chapter: From Lucas Brother’s to The Pantry
If you’ve driven up La Haule Hill recently, you may have noticed something familiar… but different. The old Lucas Bros site - long associated with local vegetables, produce and parish pit-stops – is now home to The Pantry by Kismet Cabana. And while the name may be new, the spirit of the place feels reassuringly grounded.
“We didn’t actually plan for this to become what it has,” explains Summer Lister, co-founder of Kismet Cabana Catering. “We were starting a new chapter here for our private catering business, the shop was meant to be a small side project. But once we stood here and thought about what this site has meant to people over the years, it felt important to honour that history.”
Convenient food - supporting local
That sense of respect runs through everything The Pantry does. Their ethos - Soil to Soul - is about shortening the distance between land, kitchen and table, while making life easier for modern households. The shop focuses on chef-made, oven-ready meals and sides that eat brilliantly, freeze well, and take the stress out of midweek dinners - without relying on ultra-processed shortcuts.
“Our food is designed for people who are short on time but don’t want to compromise,” Summer says. “You can put something in the oven and know it’s made properly, using local ingredients wherever possible, with big flavour.”
Best-sellers include Sri Lankan and Jerk-style curries (using Frank Deeney’s squash from across the road), rich Blanc Pignon cottage pies made with local dairy and beef, and Bosun’s Bake - a comforting, carb-friendly dish featuring locally caught octopus. Global flavours, local roots.
That local connection matters more than ever. With fewer than 2% of Islanders now directly connected to agriculture, The Pantry sees itself as part of a bigger picture. “This isn’t about nostalgia,” Summer adds. “It’s about choosing local food systems so they still exist in the future.”
Pop in - or order online!
For parishioners, the invitation is simple: pop in as you pass, just like people always have. The Pantry is open weekdays and Saturday mornings, with extra parking available. There’s also an online shop offering click & collect, home delivery, and a loyalty scheme that rewards both shopping and recycling.
“Good food can be convenient,” says Summer. “But it should also mean something.”
And on La Haule Hill, that story feels right at home.
Whether you’re looking to protect wealth, grow your investments or prepare for life’s important events, the support of an expert can help you make the most of your money.
Drop in, say hello, and find out more about how we work, the services we provide and how we support islanders every day.
Stay tuned for confirmed dates and more details.
Taking Care of Your Feet
Here’s some tips for the
colder months
The nerves which detect temperature in your feet can be damaged by diabetes. This is called neuropathy. If you have neuropathy you may not be aware that your skin is being damaged. Heat damage can lead to blisters which can become infected and ulcerate.
Check your feet at least once every day - twice is better! This is because neuropathy can also mean that you do not feel pain. If you cannot see to check your feet, ask someone else to have a look or use a mirror to look underneath.
If you are planning to have a bath or soak your feet, use your elbow to check the water temperature. Your hands can also be affected by neuropathy and thus are generally less sensitive to heat.
Keep your feet warm with socks, make sure that the seam does not cause pressure or irritation to your toes - you can turn them inside out or buy seamless socks. Try to avoid tight elastic around your legs as this can restrict blood flow and result in swelling.
Never apply direct heat to your feet, therefore do not use hot water bottles, electric blankets, heated socks, wheat bags or heat pads.
Never put your feet onto a radiator or heater, keep a safe distance from fires and be aware of the foot-well heater in the car. This can get hot enough to burn your feet.
Check your shoes or slippers before you put them on. Make sure that nothing has fallen into your footwear and that linings and insoles are smooth.
In wet weather, try to wear waterproof boots or shoes. Skin is more fragile when it becomes wet and prolonged wetness can make your feet more prone to damage.
Do not walk around with bare feet. You could easily stand on something which might damage your skin.
Wash and dry your feet carefully, paying particular attention to the spaces between your toes.
Moisturise your feet every day, particularly around the heels where skin is most likely to split.
If you have diabetes, regular checks will prevent minor cuts or blisters developing into something serious.
Remember, check your feet every day – twice is better!
From Demolition to Delivery – moving towards construction of the new Acute Hospital at Overdale
With Development Works underway to prepare the Overdale site for construction, and with the ongoing procurement process to secure a Main Works Delivery Partner running in parallel, a new hospital for Jersey has never been closer.
If you drive past the Overdale site, you will notice it has changed progressively in less than two years – from delivering healthcare services to demolition, to an active construction site.
Ashbe Construction - along with local sub-contractorshave removed the areas of remaining hard standings and residual structures below the ground and cleared the site area. Good progress is being made on the site hoardings, which are currently being installed around the perimeter. Once complete, a total of 1,500 metres of hoardings will surround the full site.
Other Development Works to provide the required temporary and permanent water, electricity and drainage infrastructure to the site are also underway. Temporary water supplies have been installed along Westmount Road to the site, and the JEC substation installation for the Acute Hospital was completed in December.
In addition, local drainage diversions within the site have been planned and are scheduled for completion to enable the next phase of works. A new borehole has also been provided to supply the Rose Garden at the Crematorium. Finally, early works are underway to start creating the Active Travel Route from the JEC Substation on the inner road - all under the supervision of an Ecological Clerk of Works and in accordance with Planning Conditions.
A ‘hospital shaped hole’
A ‘hospital shaped hole’ can already be discerned in the hillside – but this will be taken down to near formation levels in the next Development Project that is currently out to tender. The foundations for the new Acute Hospital can then be formed.
With all these preparatory works underway - which have so far been won by local contractors - the site continues to be readied for the Main Works Delivery Partner to begin construction. More than a year of detailed procurement work has culminated in the selection of the Preferred Tenderer – Bouygues UK – to build the Acute Hospital. At the time of writing, they are preparing their final offer for the works, with Meet the Buyer events between Bouygues UK and local suppliers having taken place last month to understand the capability, capacity and skills available locally to support the final phase of the procurement process. The overview presentation was full to capacity and more than 100 face to face meetings between local suppliers, Bouygues UK and the New Healthcare Facilities team were held.
Next steps for the other healthcare sites
While delivering the Acute Hospital at Overdale has been the most immediate priority - and is the critical path to all of the future facilities - it is one part of the wider, long-term vision for multi-site healthcare for Islanders.
As the Acute Hospital moves into the construction phase, it begins to unlock further work across the wider portfolio of healthcare sites, including the Ambulatory (outpatients) facility at Kensington Place and the Health Village at St. Saviour. Whilst the Kensington Place site is not available for public use owing to its close proximity to various sensitive activities on the hospital access road, it has been used as much needed storage and operational space.
A significant amount of work is currently underway to refine the briefs and proposals on the other major healthcare facilities’ sites. Over the past six months, the New Healthcare Facilities team has met with more than 150 healthcare colleagues to ensure that the Development Control Plans and Functional Briefs developed nearly three years ago are fully refined and reflect Jersey’s current and future healthcare needs, especially with the ongoing progression of digital technologies in medicine.
In the months ahead, as work continues to progress, more detailed information about the next steps for these sites will be shared. We are looking forward to sharing these proposals with you, neighbours and other stakeholders to take your feedback – just as we did on the Acute Hospital site that has now progressed so far.
Bringing Books to Your Door
Just because you can’t make it to the Town Library, Communicare Library, or the Mobile Library doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of reading.
Jersey Library offers a completely free home delivery service for anyone who finds it difficult to visit in person, whether due to health issues, mobility challenges, or full-time caring responsibilities.
The service is open to people living independently at home as well as those in residential care. When you join, a member of our friendly library team will chat with you about your reading preferences. Whether you need normal print, large print or audiobooks, and the genres and authors you most enjoy. We then hand-pick a selection tailored especially for you, so every delivery feels like a personalised book bundle.
Our dedicated team of library volunteers delivers books across the island, covering 12 routes each month. In 2025, we made more than 800 deliveries to around 80 readers. For
many, this service is a lifeline, a way to stay connected, entertained, and comforted by the pleasure of reading.
If you or someone you care for would like to use this service, please contact Angela at the library on 448700 or email je.library@gov.je
We’re here to help bring books straight to your door.
MONDAY
10:00 - 11:00
St Ouen's Parish Hall
11:15 - 12:15
St John's Parish Hall
TUESDAY 09:30 - 11:00 Holme Grown 11:15 - 12:45 Gorey Common Carpark 14:30 - 16:30 Jersey Zoo
WEDNESDAY
09:30 - 11:00 Langtry Gardens
11:15 - 12:45
St Martin's Village Green 14:30 - 15:30 Le Rocquier School
Barbara Le Ruez, Josephine St George and our volunteer Liz at Maison St Brelade.
by Derek Hart
Pétanque St Brelade Group
The St Breladais Pétanque group celebrated Christmas with a mêlée followed by lunch at Les Ormes. Trophies were awarded for various accomplishments through the season and for individual players’ contributions to our success.
There was much success to celebrate over the past season. The St Breladais team achieved a first in the history of Pétanque Jersey Inter Parish competitions by winning all the major competitions - the Inter Parish League, the Parish Knockout “Carreau Le Crapaud” trophy, and the Inter Parish all day tournament!
And that was not the end of their success - the Parish also took the trophy for winning the French Festival competition held at the Weighbridge back in the heady days of summer when the mercury touched 30 degrees and we all moaned about how hot it was! We were reminded of that day with our December Christmas Extravaganza Mêlée when we thought that we had gone back to summer - coats off as we basked in sunshine - but it was short lived!
Pétanque in the Parish continues to grow in popularity, reflecting its success around the Island. We seem to be recruiting new players with each session at the Elephant Park. St Brelade can be proud of players ranging in their mid-thirties to early nineties – surely, not many sports can claim active players across such a wide range of ages and abilities.
In addition to competing in leagues and other competitions, there are friendly, informal mêlée and coaching sessions. If you would like to know more about the sport of pétanque, please feel free to come along on a Saturday morning at 10am or on a Monday afternoon at 2pm. You will be sure of a warm welcome.
For further information, please contact Joy Hart on 741469 or happyharts13@yahoo.co.uk
Winners of the Inter Parish League
Winners of the all day Inter Parish Tournament
Steve Pallett - Gentlemen’s Overall Winner
Bridie Hunter - Ladies’ Overall Winner
Monty Tadier presented the trophy to the St Breladais team
December Christmas Extravaganza Mêlée
Winners of the Inter Parish Knockout Cup
St Brelade Twinning Association
by Martha Bernstein
The Association is looking forward to another year of visits to and from our Jumelage partners in Granville.
To start the year, Connétable Mike Jackson travelled to Granville for Mardi Gras Carnival over the weekend of 14th-15th February.
The AGM will be held on Thursday 16th April, and we look forward to seeing as many members as possible at the Parish Hall in St Aubin.
On Saturday 20th June, we have a full day trip to Granville, leaving very early in the morning and returning late the same evening. We do not yet know exactly where we will go, but we normally have a wonderful day full of fun and entente cordiale!
We know that our French partners intend to visit for a full day later in the year but, as their committee has a new President, their plans are not yet fully formulated. We would like to thank Anne-Marie Angot, the outgoing President of the Jumelage, for all her enthusiasm and joie de vivre over the last many years.
We are always keen to welcome new members. Please get in touch by email to Membership Secretary Martha Bernstein at mjb@marthabernstein.co.uk or call 746353
Women’s Institute St Aubin & St Peter’s
by Sarah Johnson
At our December meeting, we welcomed the quartet 'Harmonious Friends' who delighted us with a festive medley of songs and finished with a sing-along to some much-loved Christmas carols.
We continued the theme with a delicious buffet tea provided by the Committee and a Secret Santa exchange of gifts. A lovely evening came to an end with everyone wishing each other a Merry Christmas as we ventured out into a wet and blustery night.
Our Christmas tree this year was adorned with handknitted angels which were gifted to a nearby care home.
We were delighted to welcome our speaker from EYECAN to our January Meeting. Despite more wet and windy weather, members battled through to attend and were treated to a very clear, informative and interesting talk on the work of EYECAN, a charity that supports people with sight loss or sight impairment. The speaker brought along literature and aids for people to manage their sight loss problems. She also brought along sight-loss glasses so that we could understand how some of the commonest forms of sight loss impair our sight.
We meet at St Peter's Parish Hall on the first Friday of every month at 7.30pm. If you would like to come and join us, make new friends, enjoy lots of different events and maybe learn a new skill, please contact Sarah Johnson on 07797 725486
Members of the St Brelade and Granville Jumelage at the Twinning Games in Jersey in June 2025
HOGS on the (H) Edge
When Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the throne in 1952, there were over 30 million hedgehogs roaming around Britain. As her reign came to an end in 2022, there were less than one million.
Ido not attach any blame to the late monarch for the demise of the hedgehog population; I merely give pause for thought.
Jersey’s much-loved mammal is now ‘threatened with extinction’. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has placed them on the red list after numbers declined by 30% in just the last 10 years. Our experience mirrors this. We have admitted far fewer hedgehogs this year, with many of them so sick, injured or emaciated that they could not be saved. Yet we fight on, knowing that the work we do at Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group means each and every hedgehog we can treat and release back into the wild is a precious life saved.
We cannot do this alone; we need your help!
Hedgehogs do not hibernate during the mild Jersey winter, except during exceptionally cold snaps. They will be out and about looking for food when the weather allows.
They will have built weatherproof winter nests called hibernacula. Favourite nesting sites are in piles of twigs and leaves, compost heaps, pampas grass, thickets, long grass and log piles. As you begin to tidy the garden ready for spring planting, please be aware that you may be disturbing more than earthworms! Take great care when turning over your compost heaps or raking your leaf piles.
It goes without saying that you should refrain from using pesticides; there are many cost-effective natural remedies to ensure your garden grows beautifully. If you are strimming or mowing weeds and long grass, please check carefully for sleeping hedgehogs before you start. CHECK BEFORE YOU CHOP!!
If you net your fruit bushes, leave a 13cm gap between the ground and the bottom of the net and put football goal nets away: you would be amazed how many hedgehogs get caught in netting!
If possible, leave some wild areas alone – leaf piles as they rot down, bug hotels, twigs and log piles are also home to the very beetles and bugs and other invertebrates that supply the hedgehog's natural diet. However, supplementing that diet with a small dish of cat food or small dog kibble will be appreciated, particularly in dry weather when there is less natural food around. Never give mealworms, sunflower seeds, peanuts, or milk and bread (hedgehogs are lactose intolerant).
Finally - would your school, charity or association benefit from a visit from one of our volunteers?
In addition to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs, we are also here to educate the public about hedgehogs and the dangers they face going forward.
If you think your organisation would be interested in finding out more about our prickly friends, please contact us via facebook, e-mail us at jerseyhedgehogs@hotmail.co.uk or phone on 734340 and we will endeavour to help. You can also find out more at jerseyhedgehogs.co.uk
Thank you for caring!
Check for hedgehogs before you dig, fork or strim your garden
This hedgehog brought in, appeared to have been stabbed with the prong of a garden fork.
Leaf piles could be a nesting site for hedgehogs
Charity Open Gardens
Saturday
Sunday 17th May
Domaine Des Vaux St Lawrence
Sunday 28th June
MAKE YOUR NAUTICAL DREAM COME TRUE
ISLANDERS hoping to achieve a nautical ambition are invited to apply for the 2026 Jersey Clipper Bursary – a £1,000 cash award aimed at furthering maritime endeavour.
The bursary, which also offers a £500 runner-up award, is designed to assist an Islander of any age to fulfil a particular nautical dream. This could, for example, be a trip on a tall ship, attending a training course, participating in a watersports competition or competing in an ocean race –anything with a maritime theme.
The annual award, a legacy from the three Jersey campaigns in the Clipper Round- the-World Yacht Race, was established 19 years ago through the generosity of Dandara, Les Pas Holdings and UBS.
The successful applicant will follow in the wake of Jamie Le Marquand (17) who used the funds to take part in the 2025 Tall Ships Race, joining the crew of the historic fishing boat Excelsior on the leg from Scotland to Norway.
‘Everyone should try sailing on a tall ship,’ said Jamie, following his Baltic adventure. ‘It’s a truly incredible experience with people coming from all over the globe for the same reason – to sail.
‘Thanks to the Jersey Clipper Bursary for making this dream possible for me and I hope that other Jersey residents will be encouraged to apply for the 2026 bursary.’
Islanders can apply for the 2026 Jersey Clipper Bursary by outlining their particular nautical ambition in no more than 200 words in an email to philipjeune@gmail.com The deadline is 30 April
For further information please call PHILIP JEUNE on 857309 or 07797 722127
photo: Rob Howarth Photography)
Escape the hustle and bustle of town this summer and chill out ‘al fresco’, soaking in some of the most picturesque surroundings in Jersey, whilst enjoying hearty, seasonal pub-food or sampling our carefully nurtured cask ales and fine wines.
JERSEY AIR RIFLE CLUB
Parish Information Clubs & Associations
Martin Mallet 01534 752909
JerseyAirRifleClubInfo@gmail.com
THE JERSEY AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY INCLUDING ELECTRONICS & COMPUTING
Fridays at 7.30pm
Peter Bertram 07829 722722
gj8pvl@hotmail.com
JERSEY RAYNET, EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Fridays at 7.30pm
Peter Bertram 07829 722722 gj8pvl@hotmail.com
JERSEY ASTRONOMY CLUB
Tony Bellows jerseyastronomyclub@ymail.com
ST BRELADE PARISHIONERS FB Simon Langlois simon@langlois-uk.com
