Star of the North / Spring 2026 / Issue 73

Photo: Sandra Coutanche

Dear Parishioners...

The weather is always on my mind at this time of year, lurching from beautiful, cold days, to rainy, dismal ones. One winter storm, Goretti, blew through, taking a few trees with it, including a majestic pine in Rue du Pont. Fortunately, it was not as destructive as Ciarán the year before.

And in January there was yet another gorgeous show of aurora lights. Photos from all over St John (other parishes are available) were shared on Facebook, which I viewed with envy the next day, having missed the display yet again!!

Still, Spring is on its way, and the daffodils are out in a blaze of glory. We have plenty of rural articles for those with green fingers: we introduce two new initiatives, Farming for the Future, and a new local garden maintenance business, as well as an update from Trees for Life looking at Champion Trees around the island. Meanwhile, animal lovers can read about hedgehogs and Enzo the spotted pony.

For younger readers, there are updates from the School and Youth Project, and there is a new Rainbow Girlguiding unit opening in St John. For those of you who are feeling creative, there’s a chance for a parishioner aged 1018 years to win a £75 gift voucher! All you must do, to have a chance to win, is send in a photograph, story, poem or painting set in the parish. Get your creative caps on!

There’s plenty else in the magazine too, with updates from the Shooting Club and the Football Club, W.I. and Golden Age. There’s always so much going on in St John!

My thanks, as always, go to all the fantastic contributors who help make this magazine so packed with information and entertainment. It’s great to hear from anyone with a story to tell, so please do get in touch as I’d love to hear from you. My email is editor@ starofthenorth.org.je

Happy reading.

Sarah Grigson Editor

If you would like to contribute to future editions of Star of the North, please email Sarah Grigson at: editor@starofthenorth.org.je

EDITORIAL Sarah Grigson T: 07797 956 551 E: editor@starofthenorth.org.je

ADVERTISING Martyn Farley T: 07797 743191

E: martyn@farley.je

ACCOUNTS Helen Carré E: helen@mediamasters.je

Constable Words from the

As always, it’s been a busy few months in the Parish. It was a pleasure to meet many of you whilst I delivered the parish calendar between Christmas and New Year.

It was also great to see so many people out supporting the Christmas Tractor Run; my sincere thanks to Andy Bisson who assisted me and the team with the organisation and to our Honorary Police for actively supporting what we hope will become an annual event.

In December we said farewell and thank you to Will Simpson who was a longstanding member of our Rates Committee, and we have welcomed Andrew Gowlett as his replacement. We also welcomed Graeme Sproats as a new CO.

You will read elsewhere that we have run two separate tenders for our parish gardening and refuse contracts. Our sincere thanks to Procureur Trevor Tirel who has led on both of these projects; the feedback from those who took part was very positive about the standard of the documentation circulated and the whole process.

We are sadly going to be saying goodbye to both our current gardener James Bonny from Greenfingers and our Refuse collector for many years Basil Jeune and his team from Germbusters. I am sure parishioners will agree that both have served the parish extremely well over many years and join me in thanking them for all of their efforts.

We had a lot of interest in the gardening contract and following a thorough process, the Parish of St Helier were successful with their bid. They have also been successful in their bid for our Refuse and Recycling contract, and you can read more about what this means elsewhere in the magazine.

Once again, we benefitted from our volunteers, as our Roads Committee and Inspectors and Honorary Police

assisted with Storm Goretti. Our thanks also to Ian Averty from CI Tree Services and Dave Anderson of Brian Blandin Ltd who assisted and ensured that disruption within the parish was kept to a minimum. Thanks to everyone who heeded the advice not to venture out during the height of the storm.

In February we held an Assembly to elect both a new Procureur and a new Centenier. We welcome John Rondel to the municipality and are delighted to see Sharnie Olliver move up through the ranks to the position of Centenier.

A very big thank you to Trevor Tirel who has added great value during his term as Procureur and also to Jonathan Plunkett who steps down after some 20 years in the Honorary Police. Another change sees Centenier Andy Bisson step up to the role of Chef de Police.

I continue to hold my weekly “drop ins” on Wednesday evenings between 5 and 7pm. If you would like to speak to me about something I can be contacted on 07797 758086 or by email at a.jehan@gov.je If you would like to meet me outside these times that can be arranged either within or out of office hours.

Andy Jehan Connétable

A message from the Electoral Administrator Sue Morin

As Electoral Administrator for the Parish of St John, my role is to ensure that elections are delivered in a way that is accessible, secure and well organised. Under Jersey’s elections legislation, the Parish Secretary acts as the Electoral Administrator unless another officer is appointed. Working alongside the Autorisé - the independent officer appointed by the Royal Court to supervise the poll - I am responsible for ensuring that suitable polling arrangements are in place so that every eligible elector can exercise their democratic right to vote.

The next General Election will take place on Sunday, 7th June 2026. On that day, voters in St John will elect their Connétable, Deputies and, for the first time since 2018, Senators. For this 2026 election automatic voter registration will be in effect, meaning that more residents than ever before will be included on the electoral roll. As participation increases, careful planning and clear communication become even more important.

Since the last General Election in 2022, the parish has continued to flourish. In planning for 2026, we have reflected on feedback from voters on the day, polling staff and candidates, as well as lessons identified following the previous election. Our aim is simple: to make voting straightforward, accessible and secure for everyone.

The Parish Hall will be the Polling Station on the day of the Ballot, however pre-poll and postal voting will also be available in the run up to the Election.

The building offers step-free access, accessible toilet facilities and designated disabled parking. Clear signage will be in place throughout the site, and measures will be taken to support voters with additional needs, including highcontrast signage and clear ballot presentation. Parking will be available on site and nearby.

Security, Integrity and Efficiency

Electoral integrity and security are a crucial part of the voting process. Experienced staff closely supervise the polling processes including voter identification, accurate marking of the electoral register and the correct handling of tendered ballots. Staff training focuses on these areas to ensure that voting is conducted fairly, consistently and with care.

Honorary Police and trained parish staff will be present to ensure a safe and orderly environment for voters, candidates and staff throughout the day. This approach balances efficiency with the parish’s duty to provide a highquality electoral service.

Clear Communication and Voter Awareness

Details of the polling station, including location maps, parking information and accessibility arrangements, will be publicised through the Government of Jersey and parish communications, the parish website, social media and local media. Information will be presented clearly and, where possible, in multiple languages.

With automatic voter registration in place, some residents may not realise that they are registered to vote. We therefore encourage all electors to check their registration details in advance and to contact the Parish Hall if they have any questions.

About the Electoral Administrator

I have served the Parish of St John for just over five years. I work closely with the Connétable, the Procureurs du Bien Public and parish officers to oversee day-to-day services and to ensure that elections are delivered with integrity and professionalism. I also rely on volunteers to give their time on the day to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 General Election is an important moment for our parish and our Island. At the Parish Hall we aim to make voting as straightforward and inclusive as possible while maintaining the highest standards of integrity.

Further information will be shared closer to polling day. In the meantime, residents are welcome to contact the Parish Hall with any questions or to seek assistance.

Electoral Administrator Sue Morin

Christmas at St John’s School

As December approaches, life in a primary school gathers a very special momentum. At St John’s School, the final weeks of the Autumn term were filled with excitement, anticipation, and a shared sense of celebration that truly captures the spirit of Christmas.

Ahighlight of the season is always the opportunity to welcome families into school to enjoy our Christmas performances. This year, pupils across all year groups worked incredibly hard to prepare a range of festive presentations. Our youngest children delighted parents with a charming Christmas singalong performance, singing to their parents and families in our Parish Hall. In Key Stage 1, pupils brought the nativity story to life, with Year 1 children proudly wearing costumes and Year 2 pupils guiding the audience through the story with confidence and clarity. The enthusiasm of the children, particularly those dressed as animals, never fails to bring smiles to the faces of those watching.

Our Key Stage 2 pupils marked the season in a more reflective way, taking part in a Christmas service at St John’s Parish Church. The setting provided a meaningful opportunity for pupils to sing, read, and reflect together, and we remain extremely grateful to the church community for their ongoing support and warm welcome.

Another much-loved moment in the calendar was our “Merry Mix Up” day, a newer tradition that sees children working in mixed-age groups across the school. Throughout the day, pupils took part in festive activities including decorating biscuits, creating Christmas crafts, enjoying themed physical challenges, and listening to seasonal music. It was particularly heartening to see older pupils supporting younger children, strengthening the sense of community that lies at the heart of our school.

Of course, Christmas would not feel complete without our Christmas Party Day. Pupils enjoyed a special party lunch in the Parish Hall, expertly organised by our fantastic PTA. The excitement continued with a visit from a very special guest from the North Pole, who ensured every child went home with a festive treat. Later in the day, Key Stage 2 pupils enjoyed a memorable ice-skating experience, kindly supported by the Jersey Development Company. The day concluded with a beautiful performance of traditional Christmas hymns, organised by the Jersey Music Service, bringing pupils, parents, and teachers together through music.

Christmas at St John’s is about far more than events and decorations. It is a time when relationships, kindness, and community are at the centre of everything we do; a reminder that the greatest gift of all is sharing the season together.

A special visitor

EYFY singalong

Key Stage 1 Nativity

CHANGES TO COLLECTIONS REFUSE AND RECYCLING

The Parish would like to advise residents that, from the 27th of April, a new contractor will be taking over responsibility for refuse and recycling collections within the Parish.

Before outlining the changes, the Parish would like to formally acknowledge and thank the management and staff of the current provider, Germbusters, who have delivered a reliable and valued service to the Parish over many years. Their contribution has been greatly appreciated.

Please be assured that there will be no interruption to refuse, recycling or glass collection in the Parish, and there will be no change to collection days and frequencies.

The new arrangements will introduce collection vehicles operating on biodiesel and updated equipment, supporting the Parish’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and high health and safety standards.

WHAT’S CHANGING?

Glass will be collected using wheeled bins only. Glass must be placed in a wheeled bin of either 180 litres or 240 litres. If you currently have a different type of bin, you will be provided with a compliant wheeled bin at no cost. Non-compliant bins will be provided with advisory notices for non-collection.

To arrange delivery of a new bin, please complete the online form on the parish website at stjohn.je, visit St John’s Parish Hall, call our team on 01534 811708 or email municipalservices@ sthelier.je

Recycling collections will move to a two-bag system, to improve recycling efficiency and reduce contamination. Further information is provided below, including details on what materials should be placed in each bag and where recycling bags can be collected.

THE TWO-BAG SYSTEM

All recyclables are to be split into two bags:

• Blue bags are for light card, paper, magazines and envelopes

• Clear bags are for steel tins, aluminium cans and plastic bottles

What can/cannot be put in each coloured bag is displayed on the side of the bag. All other waste should be put into your regular refuse bin or taken to the dump at La Collette. We do not collect green waste.

Bags can be collected free of charge from the Parish Hall. Bags will also be made available at other distribution points around the parish – please keep an eye on the parish website and social media for more information.

CONTAMINATION

Please ensure that only items displayed on the side of the recycling bag as recyclable are placed in each bag. If you have a contaminated bag, this will need to go in your normal refuse bin.

To guarantee cardboard is collected, please flatten boxes and put them inside a blue recycling bag. Please ensure no food waste goes in either recycling bag.

GET IN TOUCH

If you have any questions or queries, please get in touch by emailing: municipalservices@sthelier.je or calling 01534 811708.

For more information and to find your collection dates, please head to stjohn.je or scan the QR code.

FAQs

Where can I collect recycling bags from?

Recycling bags are free of charge and can be collected from the Parish Hall. Other distribution locations around the Parish will be available in due course. Please check the parish website or social media for updates.

When does my recycling need to be put out by on collection day?

Recycling and glass must be put out by 6am on your collection day.

Is there a limit to how many bags of recycling I can put out for collection?

No. The recycling bags come in rolls of 10 and you can use as many as you think are required.

Can I put large brown cardboard out with my recycling bags?

Yes, but only if it has been flattened.

What do I do with items that cannot be recycled?

Non-recyclables should be placed with your residual waste in your wheelie bin. Any large items should be taken to the dump at La Collette.

What happens if I put the wrong thing in my recycle bag?

If your recycle bag is seriously contaminated with the wrong materials, we will be unable to collect it. This is because it will contaminate the rest of the load. We will leave your bag at the property and send you a noncompliance notice reminding you of what should go in each bag. If your bag has been contaminated, then it should be placed in with your regular refuse. You must not use your recycling bags for any purpose other than Parish recycling.

What happens if my collection day falls on a bank holiday?

Any changes to collections on Bank Holidays will be advertised in advance on the website and social media.

How do I recycle items that cannot be collected by the Parish?

There is an excellent resource on the gov.je website which gives comprehensive information on where you can recycle all kinds of items from aerosols to animal bedding, vapes to washing machines. Please use the A-Z recycling finder at the ‘Gov Recycling’ QR code (see left) to find out where your items can be disposed of.

St John Recycling Gov Recycling

Storm Goretti

Storm Goretti arrived with force on the evening of the 8th of January and once again we benefited from good advance warning from the Met Office.

Two days before, we placed contractors on notice and liaised with the Roads Inspectors, Roads Committee members and our Honorary Police.

We are grateful for local businesses and parishioners who heeded the warnings to stay indoors and whilst sadly some woke up to significant damage, it could have been a whole lot worse.

Dave Anderson was on the road at 5.30am and shortly after he was assisted by Ian Averty and his Channel Island Tree Services team. The majority of the main roads were cleared before people left for work and the Infrastructure interactive map proved to be a great asset for the parish and parishioners who could plan their routes accordingly.

New Parish Gardener

We have recently run a competitive tender process for our Parish gardening contract. We have had excellent service from our current provider, James Bonny, for a good number of years and we had extended his contract as a result.

We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to James and his team as well as the team at Bonny’s for their significant contribution to making the Parish look as good as it does.

Once again our amazing volunteers were out in force, with the Honorary Police and Roads Teams working well together ensuring all roads were passable in the parish by lunchtime.

Our thanks to all those who assisted and also those who offered their assistance - it is very much appreciated.

Following substantial interest from the industry, we had some excellent submissions for the work, and the contract has been awarded to The Parish of St Helier Parks and Gardens team. The team is passionate about plants and has won national acclaim, most recently a Gold Award in the Coastal Category of the RHS Britain in Bloom Competition in 2024. They currently maintain ten parks and gardens, five cemeteries, as well as many other green areas and floral displays and they understand that good quality green spaces improve the quality of life for islanders.

The Parish of St Helier grow their own plants, the majority in-house, and as part of the wonderful team that man their greenhouses, they run an apprentice programme to invest in the next generation of horticulturists. They are dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and using environmentally friendly practices. Biodiesel is used to heat the greenhouses and power vehicles. Batterypowered strimmers and hedge-cutters are used to reduce noise and improve safe working conditions. Weed control is performed using a citrus spray, which is a safe, non-chemical method of weed killing with no known physical or environmental hazards and is fully biodegradable.

We look forward to working with the new team from the Spring.

were

Quite a few trees were down

It was hats off to all the volunteers who helped!

ST. JOHN’S INN

À LA CARTE MENU

Beef and Ale Pie

Beef Teriyaki

King Prawns Thermidor

Duck Leg

Pork Schnitzel

Vegan Linguini Verdure

Lemon Butter Salmon

Surf and Turf

King Prawn & Chicken Espetada

Salted Caramel Sundae

Ashbe Construction Ltd are proud to showcase our scheme for 38 assisted purchase family homes at Sion in St John.

info@ashbe-construction.com

www.ashbe-construction.com

The scheme will o er 32% of the site to the Parish as public open space for use by the community and will include, a pétanque court, an orchid, a herb garden, an adventure ground and children’s play area.

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback at our two public engagement events, we truly hope we can make this a scheme for not only the Parish, but wider island community to be proud of.

Team Ashbe.

Discuss your next project on

Welcome home Lily!

Parishioner Lily McGarry was studying medicine at Cardiff University when she fell seriously ill with Meningitis B and went into septic shock at the beginning of last year. She had to have all four of her limbs amputated to save her life. After a long period recovering in hospital in the UK, Lily was able to come home to St John in time for Christmas.

When I arrived back in the beautiful parish of St John after nearly a year in hospital, I immediately felt an overwhelming sense of relief and calm. I feel so fortunate to call this parish home.

I've suddenly gone from being a busy, able-bodied medical student to a jobless, limbless woman in her 20s trying to navigate how to live in this new body and how to spend my time. The parish could not have been more supportive in helping me through this process.

Every time I leave the house I'm greeted with smiles and friendly faces which really helps any self-consciousness I feel around being a wheelchair user. Thank you everyone that has stopped for a chat; it has been a privilege to make some new friends.

One day over Christmas I was pleasantly surprised when Andy Jehan popped in to say hello when he was delivering calendars around the parish. I was slightly embarrassed that he caught me in the middle of my odd-looking exercise routine but fortunately he did not seem fazed by this. Andy gave up his own time to come and check in with me, and he gave me confidence that the parish will do everything they can to make life for me as accessible as possible.

This conversation with Andy encouraged me to go on my first solo trip to the village shop. Every single shopkeeper and passer-by has gone out of their way to make sure things like picking up a pint of milk is as easy as possible for me. After what was a very traumatic year, I feel so safe back in the parish surrounded by wonderful people who see me for who I am rather my disability.

We were lucky to have some beautiful sunny days over Christmas as well as some spectacular sunsets which I have enjoyed with friends and family whilst out on walks around the local lanes. I have been down to Bonne Nuit, really testing the limits of my electric wheelchair, and I've been very impressed by daring winter sea swimmers who are so friendly. I've also been on a trip to Les Fontaines, and I was pleased and relieved that I had no trouble getting in to sit and have a pint by the fire.

For me, healing will be a long process and, as someone who has always been focused on the next step to getting towards my dream career as a doctor, St John is providing the perfect space for me to enjoy a slower pace of life and to get back to where I was before I was ill. If there is any way that I can show my gratitude, for example by meeting and talking to others in the parish who may be struggling with a disability, please get in touch.

Many thanks

Farming for the Future

Connecting land, nature and people is the strap line of a recently formed Non-Profit Organisation, ‘Farming for the Future’ registered in St John.

Parish resident Sarah Huelin, along with her colleague Rachel Wijsmuller, aim to support agroecological developments in Jersey. Agroecology is sustainable farming that works with nature. It is the application of ecological principles to agricultural systems to create, design and manage food production that is sustainable, resilient and socially fair.

Sarah is part of the Education Team for Jersey Heritage where she has launched a new education programme for school aged children entitled ‘Rural Connections’, based at Hamptonne Country Life Museum and Le Tâcheron, a sustainable farm and rare breeds centre in Trinity. Rachel co-delivered a review of resilience in Jersey’s food system as part of her MSc in Resilient Food and Farming Systems. She currently works as a Scientific Data Analyst at the Environment Department in the Government of Jersey.

Together they realised the disconnect between communities and their food, nature, the countryside and their rural heritage which led them to form Farming for the Future.

Farming for the Future offers four main services:

• Soil testing, interpretation and practical steps for soil conservation and ecological improvement. (If you spot us lying in a field with our heads in a hole this is what we are up to –we are extremely passionate about the importance of healthy soils!

• Rural community projects that link history and innovation by adding value to rural products and engaging the community whilst doing so. The Jersey Wool project is our first, which aims to give value to sheep wool on the island whilst creating a Genuine Jersey product and initiating a woollen craft revival in Jersey

• Agroecological research, projects and monitoring. (We love nothing better!)

• Agroforestry – designing, implementing and monitoring systems which combine trees, crops, and sometimes livestock for productive, resilient systems which have both ecological and economic benefits. (The potential is huge!)

Farming for the Future is committed to contributing to a thriving and resilient food system in Jersey which works with nature and prioritises biodiversity, soil health and informed choices. Please head to the website if you would like to know more!

farmingforthefuture.je

The item must be based in St John, so photos and pictures of something in the parish, and poems, short stories and news items about people or places in St John.

No A.I. must be used – Authentic Individuals only!

f you are between 10 and 18 years old and live in the parish, submit a poem, short story, news item, drawing or photograph and you could win a £75 Waterstones voucher!

Send your entries in to editor@starofthenorth.org.je, including your name and age, by Friday 1st May 2026 be announced in the summer edition of the magazine.

Get creative and good luck!

Sarah Huelin

Rachel Wijsmuller

SunWorks helps islanders take control of their energy future. Roofs are the number one energy-saving attribute of any home and often an essential project delayed by hassle or uncertainty over the right contractor.

That’s why SunWorks has evolved from Jersey’s leading solar specialists into a complete home energy and roofing partner. From design through installation and beyond, our in-house technical team provides one clear point of contact every step of the way.

Combining roofing with solar PV is a smart, future-focused investment.

•Build long-term resilience.

•Generate clean power.

•Cut your bills.

•Sell surplus back to the grid.

•Store and manage your energy.

•Protect your home against power cuts.

Jersey’s leading energy & rooftop specialists

Gouldson Finance

We’re coming to your Parish!

Meet the team. Ask questions. Discover how we can help you.

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.

Where we’ll be:

• St John – June

• St Martin – July

• Grouville – August

• St Clement – September

• St Saviour – October

• St Helier – November

• St Lawrence – December

Farewell to a much-loved parishioner, Muriel Poisson MBE

At the end of 2025, St John lost one of its kindest and most community-minded parishioners with the passing of Muriel Poisson.

Muriel left school at 15 and joined Germain’s cigarette factory. To say Muriel tried her hand at anything was an understatement. Over the years and often at the same time, Muriel’s job roles included a factory worker, chimney sweep, potato planter, grape picker, office cleaner, hosting a bed and breakfast, hosting exchange students, child minder, cashier at B&Q and of course a lollipop lady at St John's School, retiring in 2009 after 27 years. Every Christmas, Muriel would give each pupil at St John’s School a lollipop! When she retired in 2009, the the pupils gave her a guard of honour from the school to the Parish Hall.

Muriel married Derek Poisson at St John’s Church in 1968 and in 1971, their first child Mark was born. Earlier that year, when being interviewed to confirm that they could afford a house in La Ville Des Chenes, Muriel had agreed with the Constable that she wouldn't have a baby for at least two years, even though she was already pregnant with Mark at the time. St John's should have known then, what they were letting themselves in for!

Muriel, a self-proclaimed Townie, having grown up in Tunnel Street in St Helier, hated living in St John to begin with, until she met friendly neighbours Maureen and Betty. Muriel was quickly welcomed by the rest of the wonderful villagers, many of whom still live in La Ville Des Chenes today. With her daughters Sarah and Nicola coming along in the following years, she was well and truly integrated into the St John's community.

In the early 1980s Muriel, along with many other mums in St John, started Room at the Top at the Rec, a place for children to

meet indoors that had a jukebox and Space Invaders. The joy this brought to the parish kids and her willingness to help others ignited something in Muriel that continued until the day that she died. St John’s Youth Club started soon after and the whole family got involved helping twice a week.

Muriel became involved in so many community projects, raising money by putting on pantomimes and hosting bingos – in fact Muriel's bingo is still going over 40 years later. She was also deeply involved in the Battle of Flowers, assisting villager Mary Bidan and family. She was also well-known for carol singing to raise money for the skateboard park and acting in the hilarious Biddy and Fanny sketches at the Harvest Festival.

In 2008, Muriel was honoured with an MBE for Services to Charity, and attended Buckingham Palace where she was awarded her MBE by the late Queen Elizabeth. It was a fantastic and proud day for Muriel and her family and so richly deserved after all the hours she had dedicated to helping others and the thousands of pounds she had raised for various charities.

Even in her last months she was still raising money for others. Through her final fundraising and donations following her death, £1400 has been raised for Jersey Hospice Care.

Muriel will be greatly missed by the community, her friends and most of all her children Mark, Sarah and Nicola and her grandchildren Kadi and Kyla.

Muriel on her 80th birthday surrounded by her loving family

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

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)

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

Discovering the Secrets of St John with Let’s Go!

Twenty-five people (and a couple of dogs) gathered on a chilly winter’s afternoon in January to participate in a guided walk around the parish. The walk was led by Julia and Tracy, Bronze Badge guides who recently started their company Let’s Go!

They promised to take the walkers on a funfilled adventure exploring hidden gems and sharing fascinating stories of the parish’s history and folklore, and they definitely delivered!

Leading the group on a gentle stroll through the leafy lanes, Julia and Tracy paused to tell stories about the land and past parishioners. For instance, did you know where La Rue De St Blaise gets its name from?

Someone who did come from Jersey, who also met a sticky end, was Marie Esnouf. She was born in St John in 1604, and her grandfather had been the parish rector, so she clearly came from a respectable family. She married Jean Le Cerf and they had four children, but then her fortunes took a turn for the worse.

Saint Blaise was a 4th century Armenian physician and bishop who died for his Christian beliefs, after famously being tortured with iron wool-combs which were used to tear flesh from his body! The unusual torture led him becoming the patron saint of wool-combers and as the good people of St John in the 18th century included so many sheep farmers, a chapel dedicated to St Blaise was built in the parish. In fact, it was widely believed in England in the Middle Ages that St Blaise actually came from Jersey!

In 1648, Marie was imprisoned in Gorey Castle, accused of witchcraft. Multiple people testified that she had used diabolical spells to cause the illness and deaths of both humans and beasts. In Jersey, you could bring a person to trial if they made a confession, if there was proof ‘as clear as day’, or if there was a parish indictment, with parishioners deciding there was a case to answer. Unfortunately for Marie, she had clearly upset her neighbours. She was found guilty of ‘villainous and detestable things’ and executed in the Royal Square by hanging before her body was burnt to ashes.

Not all the stories were quite so bloodthirsty. The walkers also learned that the first motor car in Jersey was owned by a St John solicitor, Peter Falla, who brought it to the island in 1899. Townsfolk were astonished at the appearance of the car when Mr Falla drove from St John to St Helier for the first time. But it wasn’t always greeted with celebration – the vehicle was dubbed La Machine du Diable (the devil's machine) and suffered the indignity of being stoned as it passed along the rough roads near Mont Mado. Mr Falla was clearly a fair-weather motorist, because the car only ventured out when it was dry, and never on a Sunday, as Mr Falla preferred to use his tricycle for the journey to church.

The walk was jam-packed with plenty of other fascinating stories and insights into our parish. If you are interested in trying out another Let’s Go! walk, look for details of upcoming tours on Eventbrite, follow them on Facebook at Let's Go Jersey Tours, or check out their website at www.letsgojerseytours.com

Julia and Tracy, tour guides extraordinaire!

Hidden paths were taken

Giving a Helping Hand

Supporting local businesses is a key part to keeping our community strong and we are always keen to promote new ventures in L’Êtaile du Nord. St John resident Callum Le Saux recently teamed up with friend Oliver Simon to start a new company, Simon & Le Saux Contractors Ltd, and we were delighted to hear all about it from Callum.

‘Oliver and I incorporated our company in March 2025. We deliver a variety of work varying from general garden maintenance to maintaining agricultural and equine land, with a commitment to our clients to provide high-quality gardening and field maintenance services distinctly tailored to their requirements.

‘We are both very motivated and eager to accelerate our business and develop an ongoing clientele. We offer a really varied spectrum of services including lawn and garden maintenance, strimming and hedge cutting, green waste clearance, field maintenance and fencing. Some of our most recent jobs have enabled us to demonstrate the standard of work we can produce in a short timeframe. Oliver and I are both perfectionists, combining this with our attention to detail and speed of work has created more opportunities for work in our direction.

So, what sort of work might need doing at this time of year?

‘With autumn behind us and winter halfway through, it is time to start clearing winter debris, reshape hedges, scarify and aerate lawns, clear borders and flower beds all in preparation for spring-flowering plants and shrubs. Similarly reinvigorating the soil structure of your garden borders and flower beds is another service we offer which requires applying compost or well-rotted manure to help provide more body to the soil, ready to plant shrubs, flowers or hedging. This will ensure healthy growth throughout spring.

‘One of our contracts we were proud to be involved with in 2025 was working alongside Julian Guegan, Procureur du Bien Public in St John, to provide our agricultural spraying services for the parish allotments. Both Oliver and I have connections to St John, and we are honoured to have an involvement with the parish.’

‘Following on from improving the soil structure, we suggest laying a membrane with a cover of mulch, woodchip or chippings as a solution to stop any weeds or unwanted greenery coming through into your garden border. A membrane will still give you an option to plant shrubs and flowers as and when you choose to.

‘We also offer hard landscaping such as patios, fencing, decking, and raised beds, established hedging and much more. Whether you have a project in mind or are looking to brighten your garden we have availability to help!

‘We both look forward to what this year brings to our new business whilst simultaneously increasing our involvement within the parish.’

If you would like to contact Callum and Oliver to discuss their services or jobs you need doing, you can reach them on simonandlesauxcontractors@gmail.com or call Callum on 07797966975 or Ollie on 07797939113

Laser Art adding a personal touch

We’re always interested to learn about people’s passions and talents at L’Êtaile du Nord and in this issue, we met up with Greg Connor, who has turned his passions for animals and technical art into a new business.

I'm Greg. Some of you may have met me while I've been out and about in the parish, or driving the JSPCA ambulance (the short, fattish, hairy one), or even at Hautlieu where I work in the lab. I started laser engraving a couple of years ago after a chance conversation at the Animals’ Shelter, and it's become both a passion and a growing business.

Most of the day-to-day work is making memorial plaques for animals, either for caskets or for static installations. As I know only too well, when we lose our companion animal it leaves a huge hole. My mission isn't to try and fill it, that's impossible, but to offer ways to honour and celebrate the life and properly mark the grief. Drawing on my experience working with people and animals at difficult times, I have the empathy and patience to make sure you get exactly what you want, and from my day job (working in a laboratory) the technical know-how to make it a reality.

Laser cutting and engraving has been around for quite a while now, but technology is improving all the time. And with a global market driven by the internet, components can be ordered directly from the manufacturers in the Far East. After I got to grips with my first engraver I've been building my own machines, something which enables me to attempt new kinds of projects and also presents entertaining challenges in itself.

I'm fascinated by the possibilities of working with lasers, and one of my favourite materials to engrave is polished stone. Because of the hardness and very high melting point of the stone, the quality of the image is excellent even at the smallest of scales. And as an aside, polishing a stone until it is not only flat, but you can see your face in it, is incredibly satisfying.

While my focus so far has been companion animals, I'm happy to take on other projects. I'm pioneering permanent ceramic marking in various colours and can transfer images to tile – this could equate to a truly unique look for your bathroom, or your children's drawings preserved in the tiling of your kitchen. I'm more than happy to work alongside local artists and crafts-folk and am currently working with a local drone photographer who takes the most fantastic pictures of our beautiful island.

Please feel free to get in touch if you've got a project for me, or if you're a local artist who'd like to talk about creating something together.

Gregory Connor Specialist Engraving Phone/WhatsApp 07700735448 gregory.connor@gmail.com

Greg with two of his own companion animals!

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

Fanning the Flames

Although it has been more than 80 years since the end of the Occupation, items long forgotten still turn up in unlikely places to remind us of that dark period in the island’s history. One parishioner, Nick Falla, recently found letters and documents in an old desk. One of those letters sheds light on a period towards the end of the war, when the occupying forces knew Germany was losing the fight, and various groups tried to incite an early capitulation or uprising amongst the troops.

My father, Dr Peter Falla died in September 2020. I inherited a number of family possessions including a large family desk. This had been the desk my father had sat at and used in our St Lawrence home where I grew up. As a small boy I always found it forbidding. It was in his study, which was too small for its size, and it overwhelmed. I never saw my father use the drawers, and the shelves in the glass top contained many books, mainly old and Channel Islands orientated which my father would treat with reverence. In 1981 my parents moved back to the family house in St John and of course the desk went back too.

It was in the autumn of 2024 that I finally had the time to look through the three lower drawers, and the small sliding drawers at the back of the flat folding desk top. The middle bottom drawer was stuffed with papers and deeds, and on closer inspection appeared not to have been touched since the early 1930's with papers dating back to the 1870's. This would seem to suggest that it had been the domain of my great grandfather, also a Peter Falla, who had been a much-respected lawyer (Écrivain) in the town, working until he was about 89 years old in 1928.

However, it was the contents of the top right hand thin sliding drawer of the desk that caught my attention. Amongst some personal documents, old passports, ID and ration cards from the war, and a permit to travel to Guernsey in 1916 which was issued by the Bailiff, there were several astonishing letters. The pertinent one for this Spring Issue is the one shown here.

I have not come across reference to this elsewhere although it is dated the 15th of March 1945, which is perhaps no coincidence given this is the date of the fabled "ides of March" of Rome. It was written at a time when the German military were at their lowest ebb and there was much dissent. It was a week after the explosion at The Palace Hotel in St Saviour, which caused huge destruction and some deaths amongst German

By Nick Falla

of Dissent

army personnel. It was written after Lucy Schwob (Claude Cahun) and her partner Suzanne Malherbe (Marcel Moore) had been caught circulating resistance letters to German troops and were already imprisoned under a death sentence.

This letter, I think, was put into the desk by my father or grandmother. It seems perfectly genuine and fits with a lot of history we now know. It could so easily have been written for circulation by disenchanted German army staff working with local resistance who were against the naval garrison who had taken control and were die hard Nazi. It is certainly in keeping with the atmosphere pervading the German garrison in those closing weeks of the war, as well portrayed in the recently republished diaries of Baron Max Von Aufsess.

Make of it what you will. I will save the second letter for a future edition of L’Êtaile du Nord, as it relates to a key event at Christmas 1944. The contents of the lower drawers still require

ST JOHN YOUTH PROJECT

As we step into a brand new year, we’re excited to share an update from our youth club and what we have planned for 2026.

This year, we’re looking forward to building on the successes of 2025 with new activities, fresh ideas and plenty of opportunities for our young people to get involved, be creative and make a difference in our community.

2025 Youth Club recap

What a fantastic year 2025 has been for our youth project! We’ve packed our sessions with cooking, arts and crafts, sports and plenty of singing and dancing – there’s never been a dull moment. Our young people got stuck into tree planting, embraced World Recycling Day with creative eco-activities and enjoyed trips to Crabbe.

This year also marked a milestone as we celebrated 10 years in the Youth Wing at the Rec. To top it all off, we hosted our YOSCARS event, shining a spotlight on the commitment and achievements of the incredible young people who make our project what it is.

What’s on the cards for 2026

We’ve kicked things off with tree planting on 8th February, which will be followed by another great community event later in the year. Our young people have been busy planning what they would like to do in their youth club sessions which means we have lots of fun things in the pipeline. We’ll also be growing our staff team, supporting our young helpers and getting ready for a summer packed with activities.

Keep an eye on the parish magazine and our email updates for all the latest news!

Keep up to date with Youth Project news

If you would like to know what St John’s Youth Project has been up to please follow the Jersey Youth Service page on Facebook where we will post updates and photos.

We have a Parent Email List where Georgia sends out important updates or news regarding the youth project and club sessions, if you would like to be added to this list please email georgialebrocq@jys.je with your name and your child’s name.

Supporting your local Youth Club

Weekly Sessions

Tuesday Juniors (Yrs 5&6) 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Wednesday Seniors (Yr 9+) 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Friday Inters (Yrs 7&8) 7:00pm - 9:00pm

St John’s Youth Project is a charity, and we rely on the generosity of our local community whether that is through donations or people giving up their time for the project. Our Youth Project would not be able to run without our volunteers and community members. We are currently looking for Young Helpers (Year 8+), Volunteers for youth club sessions and members to join our Committee, if you would like to find out more information about any of these roles please contact Georgia.

Georgia Le Brocq Lead Youth Worker georgialebrocq@jys.je // 07797795890

Charity Open Gardens

Saturday 21st March 11am to 4pm

Sunday 17th May

Domaine Des Vaux

St Lawrence

Sunday 28th June

Seafield House

St Lawrence

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.

Sunday 19th April Government House St Saviour Sunday 31st May Woodlands Court Grouville

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)

St John Household recycling collection 2026

This guide explains how to use the St John household recycling collection. A collection planner is included so you know when your recycling will be collected. Every home in St John receives a recycling collection, in addition to the existing rubbish and glass collections. Recycling collections will be on the same day as your glass collection.

Glass and Recycling Collections 2026

more information, visit gov.je/recycling For collection enquiries, contact Municipal Services Tel: (01534) 811708 | Email: municipalservices@sthelier.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.

damage the

be recycled properly.

Myth Plastic bottle tops can’t be recycled.

,

Metal lids and tops should be removed and placed with your household metal recycling.

to

Glass can

Energy Recovery Facility

leading

costly repairs. It must

Plastic bottle tops can be recycled, so don’t throw them away!

Enzo

Grand Prix pony

Whitehawk Dancing Fire (Enzo to his friends!) is a 14.1hh Appaloosa gelding who resides at Home Farm in St John.

He moved to the island at just six months old and now, at nearly 12, he is slowly building a following in the dressage world, dancing at the very highest level — which is particularly unusual, as he has no dressage bloodlines and does not have the typical stature of a dressage horse!

He was recently acknowledged for his achievements with a nomination for a prestigious award — the Horse of a Lifetime Award from Horse & Hound, the UK’s leading equestrian magazine.

Although Enzo did not take the title home this year, his owner Naomi, who bought him as a foal when she was just 19, has high hopes for the 2026 season and the award. Naomi and five friends travelled to the Dallas Burston Polo Club to represent Enzo at the awards ball in November, enjoying an unforgettable evening.

Naomi, who lives at Home Farm with her husband, dogs, and horses, works as a local dressage trainer and rider on the island. She is very proud of her handsome, spotty pony, praising Enzo for the knowledge and experiences he has given her, which she can now share with others. “I absolutely know there will never be another Enzo for me in my lifetime. This little lion-hearted pony has taken me from trotting around Jersey’s local shows to warming up amongst Britain’s top riders & Olympians, cantering around the New Forest, swimming in the sea and dancing in demos in front of hundreds. We have learnt everything together and he has always tried his absolute hardest. He’s inspired riders everywhere to believe that their horse, no matter their breeding or background, can achieve something extraordinary.”

Enzo (and Naomi) have a huge support network on the island, including his vet, Dr. Roisin Wood from Island Equine Vets, his farrier David Dawson and Karen and Trevor Barette, who make competing accessible for them. Karen and her pony, ‘Pom Pom,’ often travel the country with Naomi and Enzo, helping at shows as well as competing themselves.

In 2025, Naomi and Enzo competed in the National Premier League and high-profile British Dressage classes at venues including Addington, Chard, and Bury Farm, riding alongside Olympic and internationally successful riders. One highlight of the year was a demonstration for Equidance, where Naomi and Enzo rode alongside international Grand Prix rider Lewis Carrier at Aintree Racecourse.

Enzo is always one of the most unusual-looking horses competing in Grand Prix dressage, both in size and colour. When he is not dancing, he enjoys swimming in the sea, hacking to the pub, and occasionally a spot of snow jumping — much more than Naomi does!

If you see Naomi and Enzo around the lanes of St John, please say hello! You can also keep an eye on Enzo’s social media pages which are run by Naomi’s best friend Bekka.

Enzo and Naomi with well-known international Grand Prix dressage rider Lewis Carrier who they were invited to do a demo with at Aintree.

Enzo – The Spotty Grand Prix Pony

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.

We have had such a busy year!

St John’s WI 30 Years of Golden Age

Enjoyable lunches, a game or two of pétanque at Maison des Landes, and the most glorious afternoon of ‘bubbles’ and cream tea at the home of our President.

We’ve had weekly walks, made Christmas flower arrangements and had a wonderful meal to celebrate the season. Our 2025 social calendar ended with lunch and a visit to view the wonderful Christmas trees at St Peter’s church. You may even have spotted our own contribution!

During our monthly Tuesday night meetings, we have enjoyed listening to very informative talks from invited speakers, including talks on Ukrainian culture, the Festival of Words, and the benefits of gentle exercise. We also had a wonderful talk on travel after several of our members spent holidays in the Lake District as part of a National Women’s Institute organised group, a highlight of which was visiting Hilltop Cottage, the home of Beatrix Potter. For our final meeting of the year, we listened to a wonderful presentation about St John’s School from Jersey Archive.

We also enjoyed participating in the Jersey Heritage ‘Colour our Collection’ project. It was particularly special to take part, as several of our ladies had been involved in the original tapestry panels. It was especially lovely to see this project alongside the original tapestry when it went on display.

As we venture into the new year, we look forward to our monthly meetings, new walks, lunchtime gatherings and our crafting group.

We are a friendly bunch and welcome any new member to come and join us. We meet every second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in St John’s Parish Hall.

If you would like to know more about us and what we do, please contact Karen Cotilliard on 07797 731440

The St John’s Golden Age Club celebrated its 30th anniversary at Christmas with a special lunch at the Parish Hall.

The Club was formed in 1995 by friends Daphne Hinault and Wendy Rondel, who felt it would be nice to do something for the older members of the parish.

Daphne remembers, ‘My husband Carl was Constable at the time and Wendy’s husband Phil was Deputy, so we had the backing right from the word go. People just arrived and it grew and grew. It gave us a lot of pleasure to see the older parishioners getting together and socialising. I think at one point, including the Committee, there were eighty parishioners involved.’

Covid dented the Golden Age calendar for a while, but the Club has built up again in the intervening years, getting a second wind.

‘We have three lunches and one afternoon tea in a year, plus we have musical entertainment, speakers or demonstrations like flower arranging. There’s something different every month.

‘There’s a nice atmosphere. For a lot of the members, it’s one of the only outings they get, so they catch up with all their friends and have a good old natter, a cuppa and a biscuit. It’s lovely. It’s all about friendship and getting to know your neighbours.

‘Wendy and I are just so chuffed that we started it – it’s one of the largest parish clubs and it is still going strong.’

The Club meets on the last Wednesday of every month, except for December. If you are interested in joining the Golden Age Club, please contact the Parish Hall office.

Join the Fun with St John’s Twinning Association

by Hilary Jeune

Have you ever thought about welcoming a French family into your home — or spending a weekend in Normandy with new friends? The St John’s Twinning Association offers exactly that, and so much more.

Twinning is a joyful way for families, couples and individuals to build lasting friendships, experience French culture first-hand, and be part of a friendly, sociable community right here in St John. It’s relaxed, inclusive and, above all, great fun.

What is twinning all about?

At its heart, twinning is about shared experiences:

• Hosting and visiting families

• Enjoying meals together

• Taking part in organised social events

• Exploring Jersey and Normandy with people who quickly feel like friends

For children, it’s an exciting chance to make international friends. For adults, it’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy cultural exchange, usually accompanied by good local food and drink, good conversation and plenty of laughter.

New families keen to join us

We’re delighted that several families from Le Teilleul, our twin village in Normandy, are keen to be linked with families in St John. Now we’re inviting local families and couples to join in and create those connections.

What does being involved actually mean?

You’ll be paired with a family in Le Teilleul. Once a year (usually September), either you visit them or they visit Jersey. In 2026, the Le Teilleul families will visit Jersey. The committee organises group activities and a dinner and you’re free to plan your own time too; many families team up, which makes everything easier (and even more fun!).

A little French is helpful, but absolutely not essential. There’s no pressure and no long-term commitment, just a welcoming opportunity to try something new.

Families looking to be matched include:

• A couple with two daughters aged 6 and 4

• A couple with a daughter aged 12 and a son aged 15

• A couple with a daughter aged 12 (and a dog!)

• A couple in their early 50s

This lovely mix reflects what makes twinning so special: people of all ages and stages of life, brought together by curiosity, hospitality and a shared sense of fun.

So, are you curious?

If you’d like to learn more or simply want to meet some friendly faces and see if it’s for you, we’d love to hear from you. There’s no obligation, just an open invitation.

Get in touch with the St John’s Twinning Association and take the first step towards new friendships and memorable experiences. Contact Irene Billet-Masters at billetmastersirene@gmail.com

We look forward to welcoming you!

St Brelade Parish Hall

St Clement Parish Hall

St Ouen Parish Hall

Trinity Parish Hall

St Saviour Parish Hall

St Martin Public Hall

Saturday 10am-12pm

Throughout the year we will be offering free legal guidance at the above locations around the island.

All are welcome at each event no matter your parish. No need to register or book, simply show up on the day.

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

Get up to £9,000† towards switching to electric heating, with a government incentive.

Discover the cost of switching using our online tool at switchon.je

Using an air source heat pump you could save up to 50%** on your heating bills compared to an oil boiler. Contact us today for a free, personalised estimate on 01534 505600. **Based

Keeping up with the parish!

The St John, Jersey – Residents Facebook page is always very active and it’s a great way to keep up with what’s going on in the parish. There are posts about upcoming events, hot parish topics, lost and found, great photos, promotions and so much more.

And don’t forget there’s also a dedicated Facebook page for Sion Village at

Community!

So, what’s been going on lately within our parish boundaries?

Sion Village

Local events are promoted, even spooky ones!

Events in the parish are celebrated

A bus faux pas! Sometimes traffic jams are caused by loose cows, sometimes it’s the number 5 bus in a tight space….

The lucky parishioners who spotted the Northen Lights get to show off their fabulous photos to all those envious parishioners who didn’t!

Old photos of St John are often shared

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

LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT

HIGHLANDS

I’m in employmentfull-time

I’ve studied at Level 6 (undergraduate programme)

Brand new Master’s (part-timeDegree while you work)

CollegeUniversityJersey

I’m doing my my A-levels / Level 3

I’d like to go to university

I’m doing my GCSEs

CollegeUniversityJersey

I’m looking for long-term learning withexperiencehands-on

want

I’d like to upskill or reskill in a profession Adult & Community Education

Adult & Community Education

I want to continue in full-time study

Apprenticeships

Highlands Apprenticeships

6th Form College Jersey

FOR YOU’LL

Students who want to achieve a degree

Study; business, social work, sport + more

Experience local work placements

Earn a UK degree right here on-island

Get tailored support in small classes

PROGRESS TO JOBS OR FURTHER STUDY 96%

Anyone who wants to earn while they learn

Work in your chosen industry

Gain experience and job-ready skills

Get paid while studying part-time

Earn qualifications in your craft

Adults wanting to upskill and get promoted

Study; leadership, project management + more

Choose flexible formats – day, evening, online

Apply new skills directly at work

Gain industry-recognised qualifications

School leavers FULL-TIME

Courses

Study Level 3 or JPQ courses

Join work placements + volunteering

Build future-ready real-world skills

Boost your confidence + independence

Look after your wellbeing

Meet new people and spark creativity

Uncover hidden passions and be inspired

Learn skills to start a job or side hustle Personal growth

BONUS

Craft with a cuppa, get social, keep curious

LEARNERS EVERY YEAR

St John Village book stall for Mustard Seed, Romania

Northern Parishes Battle of Flowers Association

The Northern Parishes Battle of Flowers Association enjoyed a wonderful start to the festive season with our junior float taking part in the illuminated parade through the streets of St Helier at the end of November.

It was a fantastic evening, with several thousand spectators lining the route to enjoy the spectacle. The float made its final appearance of 2025 during Santa’s visit to St John’s Parish Hall in December.

We are honoured to have taken over the traditional monthly Bingo in St John’s Parish, originally started by Muriel Poisson. All proceeds from the bingo evenings will help fund the construction of our junior and senior floats for the 2026 Battle of Flowers Parade, which will take place on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th August along Victoria Avenue.

Work on the floats is already underway, and we warmly welcome anyone who would like to get involved—whether that's helping to build, decorate, or support in any way. You’re also very welcome to drop in, see our progress, or simply join us for a cup of tea.

If you’d like to help or find out more, please contact collette@ bisson.je or send a text to 07797 720615 and we’ll get back to you.

We would like to sincerely thank all who have continued to support our bookstall and Mustard Seed during 2025. We are pleased to announce that the total raised is £420 which will greatly help support our pensioner in Romania.

In early December we were sadly informed that our long-standing pensioner, Clara, has had to be transferred to a nursing home and we send her all our prayers and best wishes. We would therefore like to introduce our new recipient, 87-year-old pensioner Maria Covaci as our main beneficiary. Maria has no regular income and suffers with a bad heart.

Thank you in anticipation of your continued support for 2026.

Gwen & Rosemary

St John’s

Rainbows

A new Rainbow Guide unit has opened at St John’s School, bringing fresh opportunities for local girls aged 4–7 years to learn, play and grow within Girlguiding’s vibrant programme.

There is already a Brownie unit meeting at the school, and the leaders are now offering younger girls the chance to join and take part in the varied and fun programme offered by Girlguiding. It’s a great opportunity, especially as the nearest Rainbow units in St Mary’s and Maufant are both oversubscribed with long waiting lists.

This term, girls at both Rainbows and Brownies have been working towards their new badges. The Rainbows have experimented with non-Newtonian fluid, had a visit from a local zookeeper, and learnt new games while getting to know each other. The Brownies have enjoyed team challenges and visited the Jersey Archive to find out about the history of World Thinking Day as it marks its 100-year anniversary.

There are spaces available at both units. To sign up your daughter please email ThirdJerseySouthRainbows@outlook. com or register online go.girlguiding.org.uk/join-us/join-asmember

Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the British Isles giving girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships, gain valuable life skills, and make a positive difference to their lives and their communities. Across the island, we run Rainbows (4–7 years), Brownies (7–10 years), Guides (10–14 years) and Rangers (14–18 years).

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.

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!

of the lie The Art

We

are told it is bad to lie, we are brought up to tell

the truth, and even white lies garner much debate.

Yet the most popular TV show of the moment, Traitors, is all about the art of the lie. It’s totally addictive, and I would like to dedicate this edition’s game to the art of the bluff. Can you catch my lie? Or is the truth so much of a double bluff you get tied in knots?

There are many games involving the art of the lie: liar dice, murder in the dark, two truths and a lie and poker, just to name a few.

No game exemplifies this better than the super simple ‘carrot in a box’. It is unashamedly copied from the show, 8 out of 10 cats, but what a brilliant game, played this festive season in Party HQ. Who knew my 7-year-old cousin from Australia was such a hoodwink? She took us all down!

All you need are the games master, two players and two boxes, one with a carrot in it, making sure that when you open the box the other player can’t see the carrot. The winner is the one at the end with the carrot in their box. Simple.

The run of play is as follows. The two players face each other, boxes in front of them and without knowing where it goes, the games master puts the carrot in one of the boxes. Player A opens their box to see if they have the carrot. Remember: to win all you need is to have the carrot in your box at the end.

The Games master asks Player A ‘What would like to do with your box?

Swap it or keep it?’

Player A replies, spinning whatever yarn they need to get the carrot ownership outcome they desire.

Player B, then has to decide if they want to keep their box or swap it for the other. They must not look in their box.

Intense reading of facial expressions, cheeky comments and blatant lying often follows until Player B has made their decision.

To swap or not to swap?

Once decided and done, Player B opens their box and it’s glory or bust!

I love this game as it can be replicated anywhere; ‘two cups and a sugar lump’ in a café, or a shell in a beach bucket for example. It’s good for all ages, there’s no cost and who knows, you may become an expert in the art of the bluff. Just watch out for the 7-year-old Australian cousin, they are sneaky…

St John Football Club

By Corey Bisson, First Team Manager

St John First Team – Season Review

It has been an inconsistent season for the First Team, following the loss of several key players from last year’s successful promotion-winning squad. To remain competitive, the side opted to stay in Premiership 2, integrating a number of new faces. As expected, the team has needed time to settle, build cohesion and adapt to the changes.

From the seven league fixtures played so far, St John have collected seven points—recording two wins, one draw, and four defeats—which currently places them fifth in the table. With league form proving mixed, much of the focus has shifted to the cup competitions.

The team were unfortunate to be denied a spot in the semi finals of the League Cup after leading Sports Club of Jersey 3–0 with 20 minutes to play before heavy rain caused the match to be abandoned. The tie was rescheduled for 14th February at St John’s Recreation Ground (13.30pm kick off)

In the JFA Bowl, the First Team narrowly lost 2–1 to St Ouen’s Reserves on 31st January—a competition in which St John have enjoyed considerable success in recent years, reaching both finals and semi finals across the previous three seasons. Their JFA Cup run also came to an end in dramatic fashion, losing a seven goal thriller 4–3 to league leaders Sporting Academics. Despite leading 3–1 at half time, a strong second half comeback from the visitors and a last kick free kick heartbreakingly ended St John’s hopes.

Attention now turns fully to the League Cup quarter final replay, as the team aim to keep their pursuit of silverware alive for another season.

Goals have been harder to come by this campaign, but scoring has been well distributed throughout the squad. Veteran Ethan Boudin and winger Danny Stevens lead with four goals each, closely followed by Christian De Oliveira, Sam English, Jeremy Johnson, and Rickkie Rand, who all have three goals to their name.

St John Reserves – Season Review

The Reserves have enjoyed a far more positive campaign, displaying excellent team spirit and a strong competitive edge. Their performances have earned them 16 points from 11 league matches, placing them third in the table. Due to unusual fixturing, they have only one remaining league fixture—scheduled for the end of February—where victory would secure a commendable third place finish, their highest in several years.

Cup progress has also been promising, with the team reaching the semi finals of their League Cup. They were due to face St Ouen’s C Team on 12th February at Les Quennevais (18.45pm kick off).

The standout player has been Christian De Oliveira, who has scored eight goals in just seven appearances. New signing Julius Sumerauer has also made an immediate impact, netting five times in six games. However, the most notable improvement has come defensively: the Reserves have shown real composure in protecting leads, demonstrating disciplined game management and solid defensive organisation right through to the final whistle.

St John’s Shooting Club

Precision, Community and Opportunity

Tucked away within St John’s Recreation Centre is the home to one of the parish’s most successful and quietly impressive sporting clubs: St John’s Shooting Club.

Established in 1988, with shooting beginning at The Rec in 1990, the club has been part of parish life for nearly three decades. In that time, it has built a reputation not only for competitive success, but also for fostering discipline, focus and camaraderie across generations.

Almost 28 years on, the club can proudly look back on a long list of achievements.

Members trained at St John’s have gone on to win local, national and international competitions, demonstrating that a small parish club can produce marksmen of the highest standard.

Yet despite these accolades, the club remains grounded in its original ethos: welcoming newcomers from 12 years old all the way up to seniors and developing skills at every level.

In 2024, St John’s Shooting Club took a significant step forward by installing the latest digital target technology on its smallbore rifle range. This cuttingedge system allows shooters to progress beyond traditional scoring,

By Craig Marett

with shots now measured to an additional nine decimal points— transforming the perfect score from a 10 to an astonishing 10.9. It’s a level of precision used at elite competitions worldwide and gives local shooters the chance to train with the very best tools available.

The club offers a structured and friendly programme throughout the week all year round. Smallbore rifle practice takes place every Monday from 7pm, with the option to compete in a weekly league on Thursdays. Airgun, rimfire and centrefire pistol practice sessions are held on Wednesdays from 7.30pm, providing variety for those keen to explore different disciplines.

One of the club’s greatest strengths is its diversity. Members range widely in age and experience, and the club is proud to see strong representation across genders. Central to this is the new shooter training programme, which introduces beginners to the sport in a safe, supportive and structured environment. No prior experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

If you’re looking for a sport that sharpens concentration, rewards patience, and offers genuine community spirit, St John’s Shooting Club may be just what you’re looking for. Why not give it a try and discover a precision sport right on your doorstep?

Contact Peter at peterquimby@hotmail.com to get started.

Catholic Women’s League News

At the Catholic Women’s League, we continued our charity fundraising in the autumn with a popular bingo night at St Thomas’ Church Hall, raising £756 in aid of Stroke Support Jersey.

In November we held our Christmas hamper raffle, also in aid of Stroke Support Jersey, which raised a further £813.

In December the Christmas tree angels were on sale at St Thomas’ Church in aid of Jersey Cares, a charity which advocates for and supports children and young people in care in Jersey and in England. We also donated 120 Angels to the charity for inclusion in their Christmas boxes, with a Christmas message from the Catholic Women’s

League. The amount raised for these was £131. We are already planning new fundraising for them and other charities in 2026.

Christmas Tree angels

We continue to seek new members and were delighted to welcome several new members during 2025.

In addition to our fundraising we enjoy monthly lunches, visits to the theatre and places of interest and other social events.

If you would like to join us, please contact Pat Guegan on 07797724054 or via email at gueganfamily@gmail.com

Annual clay target shoot

NEWS Pews

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\ from the

By Reverend Beverley Sproats

Recent months at St John’s Parish Church have included a range of services and events reflecting the rhythm of the church year and the life of the parish.

The Harvest Supper and Cabaret, supported by the Northern Lights Singers, brought people together for an enjoyable evening of food and music. This was followed by the Advent Service of Remembrance, offering a quiet space for reflection at the start of Advent. Remembrance Sunday was marked with appropriate dignity, and we were pleased to welcome the 25th St John’s Brownies, who took part thoughtfully in the service.

During Christmas, the Candlelit Carol Service included a solo by Daisy and carols led by the

Northern Lights Singers. The Live Nativity, involving volunteers of all ages along with Iris the goat, took place outside the church and was broadcast on BBC Radio Jersey. Christingle, featuring the Chris Tingle puppet, and the church’s Christmas services were well attended. We were also delighted to welcome St John’s Primary School to church for their Christmas performances and their Christmas service.

The New Year began with Epiphany, including chalking the door and a collage activity based on the Wise Men, followed by Plough Sunday.

Iris the goat was a big hit in the Nativity

Reverend Beverley and Chris Tingle the puppet

Nativity!

Chalking the door

Blessing the milk churn at Plough Sunday

Looking ahead, regular activities continue, including coffee and croissants, craft group, Little Oaks Sunday Club, home group, and praise and worship services at Cheval Roc. Dates in the coming months include Ash Wednesday, Lent Lunches, Mothering Sunday on the 15th of March, Holy Week and Easter, the Liberation Day service on the 9th of May, the Church and Community Fete on the 25th of May, and Sea Sunday at Bonne Nuit in July. Further outdoor worship sessions with Naturebase are also planned.

Work on the church roof is nearing completion, with further repairs to follow. The icon is currently being restored, and the Liberation Silver Processional Cross is now on display.

Little Oaks Sunday Club meets on the first Sunday of every month, usually at 9.30am; a fun time of stories, crafts, and songs as children explore faith together.

Home Group meets every other week to watch The Chosen, a mini-series about the life of Jesus, and to share discussion, prayer, and friendship.

Craft Group meets on the last Saturday of each month, 10am–12 noon, for creativity and companionship. Bring along your knitting, stitching, or any craft you enjoy!

Coffee & Croissant Mornings - join us on the third Tuesday of each month, 10–11.30 am, for good coffee, fresh pastries, and friendly chat — everyone’s welcome!

Once again celebrating a New Year, my sincere thanks go to the ‘Team’ from St John’s Church who visit Cheval Roc with me for the monthly Service of Praise & Worship, for their unwavering support and kindness. We always receive a lovely warm welcome from both residents and staff.

Thought for the Day!

The prophet Micah in the Old Testament helps us to relate loving kindness and God’s Grace in this way:

“Cheerfulness is about how we relate to others, about hospitality, warmth, openness, about our responsibility towards one another, about neighbourly concern, and belonging together in the bundle of life. Cheerfulness is not about the kind of frothy joy that denies the pain or seriousness of life’s complexities, on the contrary, cheerfulness confronts adversity in full recognition of its reality, but it looks through the darkness. Cheerfulness is the persistent tortoise that keeps on keeping on and gets there in the end!

Cheerfulness is the resilient toy that you cannot knock over, cheerfulness survives every setback and disappointment because it reflects the Resurrection, hope and the faith that God’s Grace is sufficient for all our needs.”

We believe in an awesome God who decorates the universe with sparkling water, beautiful colours in nature, twinkling stars, Northern Lights and majestic animal life, fish and birds. Our Creator who sent his precious Son our Lord Jesus Christ, to be the Light of the World, and the Prince of Peace.

Our church services are still going strong, whether you prefer to join us in person or catch the action on our Facebook livestream. On Sundays Traditional Holy Communion is at 8am or more contemporary Holy Communion at 9.30am. And, if you ever need a quiet moment to yourself, remember our doors are open daily for some private prayer time. For all the latest on services, courses, and what's coming up, be sure to follow our Church Facebook page. You can find us at www. facebook.com/stjohnschurchje or just scan the QR code. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Ready to dive into the world of faith and discover more about Christianity? Connect with us on social media @ stjohnschurchje or reach out to Rev. Beverley Sproats at 861677 or 07700 731 114 or shoot her an email at beverleysproats@gmail.com

Let the adventure begin!

Blessings, Heather Woods and the Team.

Little Oaks explore faith in art

Parish Diary

MARCH

21st Lent Lunch at the Parish Hall 12 – 2pm

22nd Moto-X training at Sorel Point

25th Golden Age Club - Lunch at Golden Sands (Meet at Parish Hall at 12pm for coach)

25th Parish Assembly in the Parish Hall 7:30pm

31st Northern Parishes B. of F. - Bingo - Parish Hall

APRIL

3rd 10:30am Good Friday Hour at the Cross Service followed by prayer walk around the Parish 5th 9:30 am Easter Sunday Holy Communion service

5th Moto-X Event at Sorel Point

11th Moto-X 2 Day Event at Sorel Point

12th Moto-X 2 Day Event at Sorel Point

14th St John WI -Trees for Life speaker - Alex Morel

19th Moto-X Event at Sorel Point

21st Church “coffee & croissants” 10 – 11:30am

28th Northern Parishes B. of F. - Bingo - Parish Hall

28th Golden Age – Parish Hall 2:30pm

MAY

9th 9am Liberation Day Celebration church service

10th Moto-X Event at Sorel Point

12th St John WI – Parish Hall

19th Church “coffee & croissants” 10 – 11:30am

25th St John’s Parish Church May Day Fete 11am – 4:30pm

26th Northern Parishes B. of F. - Bingo - Parish Hall

27th Golden Age – Lunch out locally 13pm

CHURCH & PARISH EVENTS

Little Oaks Sunday Club

5th April (Easter Egg hunt around the church grounds) & 3rd May meet in Church at 9:30am

Anything Goes Craft Group

28th March, 25th April and 30th May all meet in the church vestry 10am-12.

Pétanque Club

Every Monday, meet in the carpark behind L’Auberge du Nord. All welcome

MOBILE LIBRARY

Parish precinct Mondays 11:15 to 12:15

& FRIDAY 9:00am to

9:00am to 7:00pm

Bell Ringing Justin Read 888484

Bingo Muriel Poisson 863184

Bonne Nuit Boat Owners Neil Cotillard 07797 797834

Brownies Donna Tupper 865728

Caesarean Bell Ringers Diane Nelson 481898

Church Rectory 861677 / beverleysproats@gmail.com

Football Club Nigel Perrée 865113

Friends of Bonne Nuit Peter Pearce 07797 782694 / bonnenuitfriends@gmail.com

Golden Age Club Richard Dupré 866880

Magazine Parish Contacts & Diary 866880

Netball Club Becky Duncan/Paige Brandie 07797790093 / stjohnsnetball@hotmail.com

Pétanque Club Ron Le Herissier 07797822229

Recreation Centre Caretaker centrecaretaker@gmail.com

School 861692

Shooting Club Peter Quimby 07797 775568

Skateboard Association Sophie 07700 862188

Twinning Association Stephen Masters 862880

Woman’s Institute - ALL WELCOME

Terina Le Couillard 07797 741281 / tlecouilliard@yahoo.co.uk

United Reformed Church Mike Ruskin 482366

Youth Project St John’s Rec.

Georgia le Brocq 07797 795890 / georgialebrocq@jys.je

Parish Administration

Connétable

Mr Andy Jehan andy.jehan@stjohn.je

M: 07797 758086

H: 864916

Twitter: @AndyJehan

Procureurs du Bien Publique

Julian Guegan, John Rondel Rector

Rev. Beverley Sproats

Deputies

Andy Howell, Hilary Jeune, Elaine Millar, Kirsten Morel

Centeniers

Andrew Bisson, Christopher Rudd, David Morris, Sharnie Oliver

Parish Secretary Sue Morin Sue.Morin@stjohn.je

Assistant Parish Secretary

Sandra Coutanche

Sandra.coutanche@stjohn.je

Administrator Kieranne Grimshaw Kieranne.grimshaw@stjohn.je

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Something for everyone

historical harbour-view dining

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candlelit grills & sunset moods

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Location: st brelade’s bay

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cocktails, curiosities & more!

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Location: st aubin’s village

Mont du Boulavard, St Aubin, www.somervillejersey.com

azur moods & relaxing tunes

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Location: st aubin’s bay

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beachside coffee, cake & cocktails!

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Location: st brelade’s bay

La Route de la Baie, St Brelade www.labrise.je