Jean-Luc Piazza Client Service Director E jean-luc.piazza@alexpicottrust.com
Sarah Carolan Legal Assistant
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Crier
2025 has been an incredible year for St Helier, with a fantastic year of events from Gandey’s Circus to Weekender Festival. The Havre des Pas Seaside Festival saw pre-Covid attendance levels, and the Battle of Flowers and Town Takeover brought excitement into the Town Centre with the new format parade and window scheme being a big hit with islanders, visitors and businesses.
In April, the Parade Gardens play parks were opened, and have been busy ever since, with a buzz of happy families enjoying the new play equipment.
It’s been a busy year on the roads with the completion of phase 1 works on the first Neighbourhood Improvement Area in Pomona Road, the extension of the cobbles on Hilgrove Street, widening of footpaths at La Pouquelaye, assistance with the College Hill sink hole and repair and maintenance works across the Parish.
As Autumn approached, a Halloween Pumpkin Trail took place around the Town Centre and Remembrance commemorations were held around the Parish with the Launch of the Roll of Honour, Opening of the Field of Remembrance, Poppy Appeal Afternoon Tea and Remembrance Sunday service taking place.
We hope you enjoy all that and more in the latest edition of the Town Crier.
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Town Crier
EDITORIAL Town Hall
T: 811811
E: townhall@sthelier.je
ADVERTISING Martyn Farley
T: 07797 743 191
E: martyn@farley.je
ACCOUNTS Helen Carré
E: helen@mediamasters.je
Is there an event or activity coming up that you want to tell St Helier about? Let us know at the Town Crier and we can include this for you.
Send short news items and associated photos (high-definition JPEG, please) to the team at the Town Hall by email: townhall@sthelier.je
What’s been happening in the Parish?
A round-up of the latest news and events from around the Parish
It’s a Love Story!
On 8th September, St Ewolds residents Clare and James Pallett celebrated an incredible 70 years of marriage. Residents of St Ewolds, the Pallett family, and friends celebrated with a party at the Home.
Honorary Police Sworn In
On 26th September, Cindy Skinner and Stephane Heliou were sworn in as members of the Honorary Police in the Royal Court. Cindy joined the force in January 2015 as a Constable’s Officer and was elected Vingtenier in 2016 and re-elected in 2019, 2022, and 2025. Stephane joined the force in January 2022 as a Constable’s Officer and was re-elected in 2025.
Battle of Jersey
The Battle of Jersey takes place on Saturday 11th January 2026. For those wanting to join the walking group, please meet at Grouville Church at 8.15am, ready to leave at 8.30am. For more details, head to sthelier.je.
Stolperstein memorial stone
On 8 September, a stolperstein memorial stone was laid in front of the Town Hall to remember the life of Peter Bruce Johnson, a deaf and mute Australian who was arrested by the German Secret Field Police for acts of sabotage. 25 stones have been laid around the island to remember victims of Nazi persecution.
Christmas at the Town Church
MONDAY 15 DECEMBER 6.30PM
Town Carol Service
Familiar lessons and carols to unpack the Christmas Story.
THURSDAY 18 DECEMBER 6.30PM
Carols in the Square
Gather in the Royal Square to sing some of your favourite carols.
WEDNESDAY 24 DECEMBER 4PM
Christingle all-age event
WEDNESDAY 24 DECEMBER 11.30PM Midnight communion
THURSDAY 25 DECEMBER 10.30AM
Christmas Day all-age service
St Helier Tea Dances
The St Helier Tea Dances take a break for Christmas but will return at 2.30pm on Wednesday 28 January, and will continue through until November on the last
What’s been happening in the Parish?
Continued.....
Wednesday of every month. Tickets are available from Customer Services in the Town Hall or online from Eventbrite.
Festive Bank Holiday Disruption
Refuse, recycling, and glass collections that fall on Christmas Day (Thursday 25 December) will be collected on Saturday 27th December. Collections will be as normal on Boxing Day (Friday 26
December). Refuse, recycling, and glass collections that fall on New Year’s Day (Thursday 1 January) will be collected on Saturday 3rd January
The Town Hall will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
Jersey Repair Café Heads to St Helier
The Jersey Repair Café heads to St Helier on Saturday 6th December and in the New Year on 21st February, from 9.30am to 1pm at Janvrin School, La Pouquelaye. Bring along your broken items to this free community event, where volunteer repairers help to fix your items. Free teas, coffees, cake, and live music. For more info, head to www.repaircafe.org.je or join the Facebook group.
St Helier Deputies’ surgeries are held in St Helier as follows:
ST HELIER SOUTH
Deputies Tom Coles, Sam Mézec and Beatriz Porée hold constituency surgeries as follows:
Every Monday from 11am to 12pm at Beresford Street Kitchen
Second Thursday of the month from 5.30pm to 6pm at the Lido, Havre des Pas (just before the Havre des Pas Improvement Group’s meetings)
ST HELIER CENTRAL
Deputy Catherine Curtis holds constituency surgeries as follows:
Every Monday (except for Bank Holidays), 12 noon until 2pm in the Ground Floor Meeting Room at the Town Hall.
ST HELIER NORTH
Deputies Inna Gardiner, Max Andrews and David Warr are holding constituency surgeries as follows:
Friday 5th December, 9th January and 13th February from 10.30am to 12pm at the Town Hall
Thursday 4th December and 29th January from 5pm to 6pm at the Youth & Community Centre, First Tower
Monday 1st December, 19th January and 23rd February from 3.30pm to 5pm at the Grand Vaux Centre
Food and Fellowship
Close to 300 parishioners of the Catholic Church in Jersey gathered at Coronation Park, Millbrook on Sunday 28th September for a parish social event, which was organised by the Parish Pastoral Council. The aim was to bring all parishioners together for food and fellowship. The event began with the celebration of Mass, led by Canon Dominic and Fr Ambrose, and was followed by a sharing lunch where parishioners shared picnic food, offering the chance to get to know each other and try different cuisines. Different entertainment was enjoyed including a quiz, sports races, a talent show, and a competition to draw portraits of the priests. We hope to repeat this event in future years as it was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
HIRE THE TOWN HALL HIRE THE TOWN HALL
Looking for the ideal venue to host your next event? Look no further The Town Hall offers four rooms for hire in the center of Town suitable for 10 to 200+ people. Scan the QR code to book online now or email posh events@sthelier je to learn more
Constable’s Comment:
A victory for common sense
Although I was defeated in the debate on my proposition to reconsider building a large school on the Jersey Gas site - the only available land in town which could be used to double the size of the Millennium Town Park - when the States Assembly considered P.45/2025 on Wednesday 22nd October, my proposition to increase the amount of parking provided by developers was successful. This proposition (P.54/2025) asked the Planning Minister to revise the Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) which over the years has led to a chronic under-supply of parking, especially in new builds, affecting not only the residents of new homes in the island but also the ability of town residents, in particular, to receive visitors and carers. There was stiff opposition to the idea of making sure that at least one parking space is provided for each new unit of accommodation, with dire warnings from some Ministers that it would lead to new homes becoming even more expensive than they are already, while others said that it would increase car dependency and traffic congestion.
In the report accompanying the proposition I pointed out that it is unfair for planning policies about parking to make it more difficult for town residents to enjoy the benefits of car ownership; after all, we undoubtedly use our vehicles less than islanders who live in rural parishes: neither the commute nor the school run requires us to drive and add to the problems of rush hour traffic. However, some of us would like to benefit from having a vehicle for that off-island trip, or a visit to the beach or countryside – it is ironic that planning policies around parking to date have made car ownership most difficult for town residents whose choice of town living, in terms of environmental sustainability, has done more than anything else to protect the beautiful coast and countryside of Jersey which we all value so much.
Of course, it is not always possible for a development to include parking, especially if a building of local interest is being subdivided or if there are highway considerations that prevent vehicular access, which is why my proposition contained the phrase, ‘where practicable’. But if we take a development which is currently being considered, comprising 62 new units of accommodation at St Joseph’s Care Home in St John’s Road, with only 23 additional parking spaces being offered, it is surely right to expect a greater amount of parking, (the residents of the home may well not own a vehicle but they are likely to want to receive visitors and carers) while the proposed development of Romerils could provide just 18 spaces for 53 units.
I was pleased to receive support in the debate and the vote from several Constables and Deputies who represent other
Parishes where new estates are being built with inadequate parking, due to the application of the current SPG, and am hopeful that the Planning Minister will come up with more reasonable parking guidelines in the New Year.
A Christmas Message
As we approach the festive season, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all St Helier parishioners a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.
At Christmas, it’s natural to reflect on the year gone by, to celebrate our community spirit, and to be thankful for the kindness and generosity that make St Helier such a special place to be. This year has been a successful one for the Parish, and I am continually inspired by the dedication and hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to serve our community, support Parish events, and ensure that St Helier remains a vibrant, safe and welcoming place to live, work and visit.
As we look forward to the year ahead, I hope that we will continue to look out for one another, lend a helping hand where it’s needed, and take pride in the community we share.
My wife, Angela, and I wish you peace, joy and friendship this Christmas and throughout the coming year.
Parish Notices
How to complete your Parish Rates Annual Returns
The Parish Rates Annual Returns will be issued to all landowners in the Parish in early January. If you do not receive yours, please get in touch.
To help you complete your return, here is some guidance based on frequently asked questions. You can download the full notes from sthelier.je/about-rates
Section A
Please add your full contact details, including telephone numbers and email address, so we can contact you quickly and easily if we have a query.
Section B - Occupier’s details
Please note you are required to provide full details of all occupiers where the information differs from that of the owner. If complete details of the occupier(s) as at 1 January — including title, full name, and address — are not supplied, the owner may be held liable for the occupier rates.
Section C
Please provide full details of any changes to the land or property that have been made during the previous year. If you are new to the property and unsure if there have been any changes, please indicate this by ticking the relevant box.
Section D - Domestic property
If any of the attributes are incorrect or inaccurate, please amend the details and initial the change. Please note that rooms should be declared based on their original or intended purpose, rather than their current use. For example, a single bedroom that is being used as a study should still be declared as a single bedroom, not as an ‘other room’.” Guidance on completing your annual return can be found on our website sthelier.je/about-rates
Section E
When signing your form, please also remember to print your name clearly.
Dog Licence Renewal
Existing dog licences must be renewed from 1st January 2026
To renew online, head to doglicences.je, call 01534 811733, or pop into the Town Hall to renew in person. Dog licences must be renewed by 31st January 2026 to avoid incurring a penalty.
Electoral Statements due by 1st December 2025
Please complete and return electoral statements by 1st December 2025. The information provided is used to compile electoral registers. Your name must be on the register to be eligible to vote at Parish and Ecclesiastical Assemblies, Parish Elections, and States Assembly Elections in 2026.
If you haven’t received a Statement, please get in touch at townhall@sthelier.je or 01534 811733 or visit the ‘Do It Online’ section at sthelier.je and download and complete an electoral form.
CUSTOMER SERVICES TEAM OPENING TIMES: Monday to Friday, 08:45 am to 4.45pm
TO BE POSTING
WHEN DOES YOUR BUSY PERIOD START?
This starts from Black Friday in November, and we’re still very busy until mid-January with returns. Our Posties, Counter Colleagues and Customer Care team work incredibly hard at this time of year delivering parcels (in all weather) and answering queries to help islanders send to loved ones across the world.
HOW ARE YOU ?
We see an increase in items of around 30% – our team deliver up to 65,000 items daily! We’ve recruited extra team members to help us, and our Post Offices at Broad Street and Rue des Pres will extend their opening hours to help customers. We’ve delivered a handy guide to every household with everything you need to know about posting over Christmas.
It’s the busiest time of year at Jersey Post. Julie Thomas, Chief Operating Officer tells us how the team is preparing to deliver for our island community this Christmas.
WILL YOU BE DELIVERING TO ?
Absolutely! Seeing the handwritten envelopes from excited children, many decorated with glitter and stickers, is a highlight for us every year! We receive around 1,500 a year, which our Posties deliver to Santa in the North Pole. Children can post these free of charge in any Post Box around the island. It’s very important to include your address so Santa can reply, and we need to receive these by 12th December to get them to Santa in time. JERSEYPOST.COM/CHRISTMAS
We’d like to wish all our customers a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
And say a huge thank you to our teams, who work so hard to serve our community.
TOP TIPS FOR MAIL
• Beat the rush - post as early as you can before the last posting dates!
• Pre-pay VAT on goods going to the UK to speed up delivery.
• Buy your postage online – simply print your label and then drop your item at your nearest Post Office.
• Sign-up for SecureDrop – your letters and parcels (including signed-for items) will be delivered to your property, even when you’re not at home!
Town Team
Good things on the horizon for the Town Centre
Town Centre Manager, Connor Burgher, gives an update on what’s happening in Town.
The Town Takeover and Battle of Flowers Parade brought a new buzz into the Town Centre, with so many amazing businesses getting involved and decorating their shopfronts. The response this Summer has been incredible, with retailers reporting increased footfall and positive comments and photos flooding social media. The community spirit that Jersey is so proud of really shone through.
But what does the future look like for the Town Centre?
It is a common misconception that vacant shops on the high street and around Town mean that St Helier is dying. In fact, there is a positive amount of investment taking place in St Helier, often happening behind hoardings and covered windows. Old shop frontages have benefited from new makeovers, such as the old Dorothy Perkins and Topshop buildings, stores such as Molton Brown and Fotosound have taken on new premises, and businesses are expanding, such as Pretty Okay Candle Co, which has opened a new shop to dedicate their old space to candle workshops.
It’s been a busy 12 months for restaurateurs as the newly renovated pub and restaurant, the Bear, opened at New Cut, Spanish restaurant, Arroz, opened in the old Burger King premises, Italian Tavola took over La Bouche in the Central Market, and Colmar underwent a makeover, reopening as Sage.
The future looks bright for St Helier as inward investment continues, and new shops continue to pop up.
With a jam-packed schedule of events happening in St Helier, from the ice rink to the Genuine Jersey Simply Christmas Markets, to a programme of performances in the newly refurbished Opera House, St Helier really is worth a visit this Christmas.
More sparkle and magic have arrived to add to your shopping experience this year, as the Town Centre benefits from a refreshed set of Christmas lights.
There will be several performances and pop-up stalls around Town, late-night shopping on Thursdays, and Sunday openings, so make the most of the festivities.
Help keep the Town Centre thriving over Christmas and beyond, and come and see everything St Helier has to offer.
Building on the excitement from summer, the Christmas Light Switch-On event traditionally marks the official start of Christmas in Town.
MEET THE MUNICIPALITY
The Parish has many volunteers who support the overall running of the Parish, from the Honorary Police to the Rates Assessors. Meet some of the people behind the Parish.
Meet Paula Every
Parish Rates Assessors
The Parish Rates Assessors help determine the rateable value of properties across the Parish, ensuring consistency island-wide, from cosy flats to bustling shops. By helping assess properties fairly, the Rates Assessors play a key role in keeping St Helier running smoothly and transparently.
We visited Paula Every in the Rates Assessors’ office in the Town Hall to find out more.
Describing what the role entails, Paula said, “we check all the forms that are returned on an annual basis from all the properties within the Parish, whether they be domestic or non-domestic, which we have a wide variety of. If people have had changes within their properties, we can then reassess the amount of quarters that they have. We visit new properties to assess what band they are and the amount of quarters they should have, and we deal with lots of builders and property developers with new developments.”
Paula added that the skills needed for the role include basic computer skills to understand basic systems. and a bit of maths, to understand the numbers.
When asked what she enjoys about the role, Paula said, “I’m a people person; I like meeting people and having a small team. We get to see a wide variety of Parishioners, new properties, and developments.”
Paula has been a Rates Assessor for 3 years and a volunteer at the Parish for 5 years, explaining that she has worked within the community and on the social committee, “doing all the Christmas Lunches, afternoon teas, and poppy appeals.” Paula volunteers for around 6 hours a week as a Rates Assessor, based in the Town Hall office.
“I had time, and I wanted to do something within the Parish, as I was already involved with the social committee. I wanted something more.”
Offering words of encouragement to anyone considering a volunteer role, Paula said, “Go for it. If you’ve got time to spare and you like the Parish, it’s varied. Give something back to the Parish you live in. We’re a nice, friendly bunch who need more people."
Become a Rates Assessor
We’re looking for curious, community-minded people who are up for a rewarding challenge. You won’t be thrown in the deep end, and full training will be given on the job by our experienced team.
The role involves 6 hours per week (two half-day sessions) from January to Easter, with occasional site visits and ad hoc work throughout the year. Volunteers normally serve for a three-year period.
If you are interested in becoming a Rates Assessor, please get in touch with Parish Secretary, Alison Roberts, by calling 01534 811880 or emailing alison. roberts@sthelier.je
What’s Happening on the Roads in 2026?
Neighbourhood Improvement Areas
Works are underway on phase 2 of the Poonah Road Neighbourhood Improvement Area and are due to be completed in March. Following on from the successful works completed in Pomona Road earlier this year, the scheme extends from Savile Street to Great Union Road and comprises increased pedestrian space, traffic-calming measures, high-quality granite paving, a new lighting scheme with heritage-style columns and lanterns, decorative planting, and litter bins.
Discovery work begins on the next Neighbourhood Improvement Area in Clearview Street, with a public consultation to be launched to gather feedback from residents in the area on the proposed plans to roll out another NIA.
Old Street
Old Street is set to receive a makeover, with a planned mural bringing some of France to St Helier. The mural, based on artwork entitled ‘Avranches. Baie du Mont St Michel’ created by Albert Bergevin from St Helier’s Twin Town of Avranches in France, will be re-created by local artist James Carter from Midnight industries. Following the mural, a bike shelter will be installed to cover the existing cycle racks.
Tower Road
The high-friction surface will be renewed on Tower Road.
Broad Street fountain
The Parish will be undertaking maintenance work on the Broad Street fountain, undertaking a thorough cleaning and installing upgraded lighting.
Aquila Road resurfacing
Aquila Road will be resurfaced between Claire Street and Poonah Road, with the remaining section being resurfaced in 2027.
Working in partnership
The Parish works in partnership with the Government of Jersey and the Island’s utility companies to undertake maintenance and repair works in conjunction with other works, to minimise disruption to road users.
Find out what’s happening on the roads
Did you know that the roads in St Helier fall under different responsibilities? Some roads are owned by the Parish of St Helier, some by the Government of Jersey, and some come under private ownership. This means that different people have different responsibilities for maintaining St Helier’s roads. If you see an issue on the roads, help us deal with the issue quickly and ensure that your message gets to the right place by reporting on Love Jersey. You can update your reports and check the progress at home, so if you see something when you’re out and about report it. Head to lovejersey.gov.je/reports/ home for more information.
Keep up to date with what’s happening on the roads.
You can view all road closures, diversions, and traffic works, including the resurfacing of roads across Jersey, and view who is responsible for the works, on the Trafficworx map. Search using road names or postcodes for details.
Remembrance Round-up
The Field of Remembrance was opened on Friday 24 October, marking the start of the Poppy Appeal. Wooden crosses were planted in memory of those who lost their lives serving in the Armed Forces.
On Monday 3 November, the Roll of Honour was launched at the Santander Work Café by the visiting Chelsea Pensioners, representatives from the Royal British Legion, and the Constable of St Helier. The Roll of Honour is displayed every year throughout November, displaying the names of Islanders who have died in conflict.
The Poppy Appeal Afternoon Tea returned to the Town Hall, an annual event for senior citizens within St Helier to raise funds for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. A huge thank you to everyone who supported the event.
On Sunday 9 November, Islanders gathered in front of the Town Hall and around the Cenotaph to remember those who served in World Wars and other conflicts. The day is marked with a service of Remembrance around the Cenotaph, followed by a parade.
Learnings From a Volatile Year
Investment management and financial planning are not one-off tasks to be ticked off to-do-lists once implemented. Strategies must continually be reviewed and refined to reflect the evolving financial landscape. As we work our way through the final quarter of 2025, now’s a good time to take stock of the year to see what learnings can be taken for 2026 and beyond.
Arguably, 2025 saw the world become a more uncertain place, both geopolitically and economically. Geopolitically, look no further than the ongoing Russia/Ukraine war and Israel’s invasion of Gaza; economically, developed countries’ high debt/low growth profiles and global trade tensions have weighed on markets. Take trade. Liberation Day was a game-changer - not the 9 May Liberation Day here in Jersey, but US President Donald Trump’s self-declared Liberation Day on 2 April, when he announced all US imports will be subject to a 10% tariff. Certain nations, including China, were hit harder. A full-blown trade war and global recession seemed likely. A sell-off in global stocks followed.
Trump’s Liberation Day, a stand-out example of how in 2025 previously regarded givens - free trade, globalisation, responsible US global leadership – could no longer be taken for granted. Elevated uncertainty became the order of the day.
Takeaway: Government bonds rose in the immediate aftermath of Liberation Day. So too, did other safe-haven assets, highlighting how diversified, multi-asset portfolios can provide protection.
In the event, a global recession was averted as the US significantly rowed back tariffs, while companies adapted by diversifying supply chains, adopting near-shoring strategies, adjusting prices, and investing more in technology. Together with renewed excitement surrounding technology stocks and artificial intelligence (AI), it wasn’t long before the ‘everything’ rally resumed. Markets from equities to gold soared.
Takeaway: The turnaround highlights the importance of staying the course. Volatile markets, geopolitical/ macroeconomic uncertainty will cause strategies to drift off course but, with insightful stewardship, they can be corrected. Withdrawing funds during a market downturn, by contrast, can derail long-held plans and be hard to recover from.
2026 and Beyond
Many of the issues that dominated sentiment in 2025 remain. Cue recently reignited trade war fears following China’s decision to impose export controls on rare earth minerals and Trump’s tit-for-tat threats to hit China with 100% tariffs. Closer to home, a year after her £40bn tax-raising budget, UK chancellor Rachel Reeves is looking to plug yet another multi-billion-pound funding gap. Against such an uncertain backdrop, expect further bouts of volatility.
As April 2025’s tariff tantrum showed, knee-jerk fund withdrawals often lead to poor results. Cutting through the noise, focusing on market fundamentals and maintaining an analytical approach to investing was the correct course of action. That’s the longterm approach we take at Quilter Cheviot when constructing and managing diversified, multi-asset portfolios. We believe this not only generates better outcomes for investors but will also position portfolios better to deal with whatever 2026, and beyond, has in store.
Investments and the income from them can go down as well as up, you may not get back what you invest.
Tim Childe Chief Executive Officer Quilter Cheviot International
Christmas Messages from around the Parish
As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you for helping us make our parks a place for everyone to enjoy. From trimming trees to planting flowers — it’s been our pleasure to serve you all year long.
Wishing you and your loved ones peace, joy, and time to enjoy the outdoors this festive season. We’ll see you in the parks!
Happy Christmas and a Green New Year! From the Parish of St Helier Parks Team.
As 2025 comes to an end, we wanted to take a moment – between wheelie bins and recycling bags – to wish all our wonderful Parishioners a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It has been our pleasure to serve you throughout 2025, ensuring St Helier is kept clean and tidy for everyone to enjoy.
Thank you for your friendly waves and smiles that make our rounds a little brighter, despite the miserable weather.
Wishing you a warm, safe, and happy Christmas from the refuse and street cleansing team.
Hello to all our wonderful customers and parishioners!
As the year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support, kindness, and connection throughout the past year. Whether you reached out with a question, a kind word, or an issue that needed resolving, it’s been our absolute pleasure to serve you.
From all of us in the Customer Services Team, we wish you and your loved ones a magical Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Residents of St Ewolds would like to wish all the residents of St Helier, their families and friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2026. May this special time bring peace, love and laughter, and may the New Year be full of health, joy, and wonderful moments.
Merrry Christmas and a Happy New Year from residents and staff at St Ewolds.
As Christmas approaches, the Honorary Police would like to wish everyone in St Helier a Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year.
It has been our pleasure to assist you and continue to keep our community safe.
Please take extra care on the roads this Christmas, look out for neighbours who may be alone, and celebrate safely and responsibly.
Thank you for your continued support throughout 2025 and into 2026. From all of us at the Honorary Police.
As the year comes to an end, we want to take a moment to thank our wonderful children, families, and community for filling our nursery with fun, laughter and learning.
This festive season, may your homes be full of joy, your hearts full of warmth, and your days full of magic and togetherness.
We’re so grateful to share these precious early years with you and look forward to another year of growth, discovery, and happy memories.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Westmount Day Nursery Team.
As the festive season draws near, we extend our heartfelt wishes to everyone in St Helier and across our island community.
Christmas is a time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with loved ones, with neighbours, and with the values that bind us together. The values of compassion, generosity, and equality.
This year, we’ve seen the strength of our parish shine through from volunteers supporting those in need, to local businesses bringing cheer to our high streets, and families embracing the spirit of togetherness. We are proud to represent a community that meets challenges with resilience and kindness.
Whether you’re celebrating with family, reaching out to someone spending the holidays alone, or simply finding quiet joy in the season, we hope this Christmas brings you peace, warmth, and renewal.
Thank you for your continued trust and engagement. We look forward to working with you in the New Year to build a fairer, more inclusive Jersey for all.
With every good wish for Christmas and the year ahead, Your Reform Jersey Deputies of St Helier.
A Christmas message from the Very Reverend Michael Keirle, Dean
of Jersey
Those of you from the parish who attend our Christingle Service (Christmas Eve at 4pm at the Town Church) will know that it is the one day when I bring out my tasteless, gaudy, Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer Christmas jumper, with the red nose on the front which squeaks when you squeeze it. It has garish colours and is made from the highest quality recycled polyester. It is designed to stick out, make an entrance and shout out loudly: look at me, look at me!
Thank God the first Christmas wasn’t like that. Despite all the gaudy embellishments that we add to Christmas, which I love by the way, the birth of Jesus went largely unnoticed in a backwater of the Roman Empire, to an obscure couple from a tiny village, in a feeding trough where animals were kept. OK, so a few shepherds turned up and much later, some odd wise men but apart from that, it was largely unseen and quiet and obscure.
God comes to us, not in lurid and loud colours, demanding attention. He comes quietly in the helplessness of a baby – vulnerable and hidden but world changing. And when he did grow up and say: “Look at me”, it was always to point to God and to tell people that they were loved by him.
Merry Christmas from the St Helier Ambassadors
A Christmas Poem
from St Helier Junior Ambassador Manita (MJ) Jones
Christmas in St Helier, Bright, brilliant, beautiful.
Lights brighten King Street
bringing an air of festivities to the high street.
The biting, chilly air nips at my nose
The cold air let me see the cloud of breath leave my mouth, as if I were a train.
As I stroll down King Street, pass de Gruchy, M&S and Next, all primped up like Christmas presents, I sense the smell of coziness, hot chocolate and happiness,
As I wander towards Voisins and towards the Christmas market at the royal square,
When I saunter into the market, I’m happily overwhelmed with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
People laughing and chattering, talking of their holiday plans.
The music from the local band dancing through the air,
A merry melody through the air.
I love Christmas in St Helier, It truly is bright, brilliant and beautiful.
Merry Christmas
from St Helier Senior Ambassador Jack Lewis Rondel
As the festive season approaches, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in our wonderful community a very Merry Christmas and a joyful New Year.
May this special time bring you peace, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. As we look ahead to 2025, I wish you all the best of health, happiness, and prosperity in the year to come.
Merry Christmas
from St Helier Senior Ambassador Scarlett Camacho
The magic of Christmas is upon us once again – a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the simple joys that make life so special. May your days be bright with laughter, your hearts light with love, and your homes filled with warmth and kindness.
May new opportunities and happy moments find their way to you and your loved ones. Wishing you a truly wonderful Christmas and a New Year overflowing with peace and happiness.
25 October to 11 January
JERSEY ON ICE
Weighbridge
Head to jerseydevelopment.je/iceskating/ to book your session.
13 November to 11 December
CHRISTMAS WINDOW COMPETITION
Town Centre
Vote for your favourite Christmas Window now at sthelier.je. Awards announced 11 December.
18 November
BOHEMIA CHRISTMAS FAIR
4pm - 7:30pm I Bohemia
Local artists and craftsmen showcasing their amazing range of products alongside Bohemia’s Christmas products and refreshments.
20 November to 14 December
GENUINE JERSEY SIMPLY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Royal Square
Showcasing over 60 of Jersey’s finest artisans.
22 to 23 November
VIBRANT JERSEY SMALL BUSINESS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
10am - 4:30pm I Radisson
Blu Waterfront Hotel
Support small local businesses and charities. Santa’s Grotto and live music.
23 November
JERSEY HOSPICE CARE CHRISTMAS SALE
10am - 2pm I Town Hall
Come along and grab a bargain from the pop-up sale.
27 November to 19 December
LE PETIT TRAIN
CHRISTMAS LIGHT SING-ALONG TOUR
Town Centre
Experience the magic of St Helier’s Christmas lights. Tickets available from littletrain.co.uk
29 November
FATHER CHRISTMAS NEEDS A WEE!
Jersey Opera House
Father Christmas is on his rounds… but he’s forgotten something very important – he really, really needs a WEE! Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
30 November
ACAPELLA JERSEY PRESENTS: A CHRISTMAS CHORUS
Jersey Opera House
Acapella Jersey proudly presents a dazzling Choral Showcase bursting with all your festive favourites. Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
30 November
ST HELIER SENIOR CITIZENS’ CHRISTMAS LUNCHES
12:30am - 4pm I Town Hall
Tickets available for St Helier residents from the Town Hall.
30 November
RADISSON CHRISTMAS MARKET
10:30am - 4pm I Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel
Small business stalls, Santa’s grotto, live music, and children’s area.
4 December
JERSEY HOSPICE SANTA DASH
5 to 6 December
THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE
16 New Street
Christmas isn’t complete without a special visit to see the ‘real’ Father Christmas, members-only.
12pm I Liberty Wharf Get your Santa suit on and take part in a unique fun run. Register now jerseyhospicecare.com
5 to 7 December A FAIRYTALE FOR CHRISTMAS
Jersey Opera House
‘Tis the season to be jolly as the ultimate Irish Christmas concert comes to Jersey. Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
6 to 23 December
ROMERIL’S SANTA’S GROTTO Romerils
Romeril’s Santa’s Grotto returns from 6 December. Head to Romerils.com for all available sessions and to book.
7 December
ST HELIER SENIOR CITIZENS’ CHRISTMAS LUNCHES
12:30am - 4pm I Town Hall
Tickets available for St Helier residents from the Town Hall.
8 December to 2 January
JERSEY HERITAGE CHRISTMAS
Jersey Heritage locations
All the Jersey Heritage visitor sites will be dressed for Christmas. Come and visit with a festive twist.
8 to 14 December CHRISTMAS NORMAN MARKET
Weighbridge
Get ready for Christmas with some French treats!
9 December
JERSEY SHELTER TRUST SOUP KITCHEN
10:30am - 2pm I Royal Square
Enjoy a delicious soup whilst supporting the Shelter Trust in Jersey.
10 December
LA RONDE CONCERT BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT 7pm I Town Hall
A free Christmas concert in the Assembly Room.
12 to 13 December THE FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE 16 New Street
Christmas isn’t complete without a special visit to see the ‘real’ Father Christmas, members-only.
13 December
JERSEY HERITAGE DISCOVER CHRISTMAS 10am - 4pm I Jersey Museum
Free event. Make fantastic cards, decorations and gifts. Follow the festive light trail and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas.
14 December
ST HELIER SENIOR CITIZENS’ CHRISTMAS LUNCHES
12:30am - 4pm I Town Hall
Tickets available for St Helier residents from the Town Hall.
15 December BAND OF THE ISLAND OF JERSEY
7.30pm I Town Hall
A free Christmas concert in the Assembly Room.
18 December
THE RAT PACK AT CHRISTMAS
Jersey Opera House
Back by popular demand and following sell-out performances across the globe, the Definitive Rat Pack brings you an evening of festive classics. Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
19 to 21 December UNDER THE FROZEN MOON
Jersey Opera House
With lively poetry, transforming sets, atmospheric live music and exciting puppetry; Under the Frozen Moon brings to life a beautiful world of ice and adventure. Tickets jerseyoperahouse. co.uk
20 December
THE JERSEY BOUNCE BIG CHRISTMAS SHOW
Jersey Opera House
Jersey’s biggest and best show band are coming Home for Christmas with special guest Chesney Hawkes. Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
20 December A GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS 10am - 4pm I 16 New Street
Step back in time and discover the sights and smells of a traditional Christmas
20 December STEP INTO CHRISTMAS
Royal Square
Entertainment and activities for the whole family, presented by a group of Jersey Churches.
21 December ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS WISH
The Best Western Royal Hotel
Meet the characters with Performers Jersey. Tickets available from Eventbrite
21 December
WINTER ENCHANTED
Jersey Opera House
Featuring unforgettable moments and music from beloved West End classics. Tickets jerseyoperahouse.co.uk
25 December
SALVATION ARMY CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
Open to anyone who would like to be with others on Christmas Day. Contact jersey.corps@salvationarmy.org.uk
Jersey Village Vets 10th Anniversary
“At the heart of the Community” is a phrase that can be banded about without substance but here at Jersey Village Vets, it’s more ethos than phrase.
As Jersey Village Vets enters its eleventh year, having previously traded as Allen Rushton-Taylor Vets since 1976, our mission to be at the heart of the outlying Parishes, goes from strength to strength.
Most of our team know most of our clients, and more often than not, a chat and a catch up proceeds an appointment.
We throw ourselves into community projects and strive to help our communities where we can. To us at Jersey Village Vets, our clients are our friends and as the world and peoples lives become more insular and isolated, it’s important to us to maintain that human interaction when we can. We consciously locate our five, well equipped branches and expert teams, in the country Parishes and always aim to support those parishioners and communities we serve. That’s not to say we distract from our core value of providing your pets with the best possible care and compassion, using the most up to date methods and state of the art equipment. We just like to go that one step further and really be at the heart of the community.
It’s more than roadworks, it’s powering big nights out.
Over the next few years, we will carry out the largest ever upgrade to the Island’s energy network. It will ensure every home and business continues to access affordable, sustainable energy.
ONE DIABETES DIAGNOSIS EVERY DAY IN JERSEY
In almost all of its publicity, and even at the foot of many of the letter written from Diabetes Jersey will use the phrase that “every day one more person in Jersey acquires diabetes”. This is statistically accurate since the number each year is circa 400, i.e. around one every day.
Why does this happen?
Diabetes is all about sugar in the blood and occurs when the body becomes incapable of controlling how much sugar our blood is prepared to accept. Fortunately for most of us, our pancreas produces the hormone insulin which automatically regulates glucose levels in our blood.
Just what stimulates the pancreas in some people either to stop abruptly producing insulin or to slow down its production is not known. Therefore, there is no way we can prevent it. No-one has yet invented a vaccine and Type 1 diabetes (where the pancreas stops producing insulin completely) can strike children as young as two or three years old.
While there is no early detection of Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 can be detected with a simple blood test and if detected early enough, can be managed, and even reversed.
Today managing Type 1 diabetes with insulin injections is commonplace.
Type 2 diabetes, which occurs as the pancreas progressively produces less insulin, while not actually preventable, can be managed and diminished, either by diet or medication and particularly by the way in which we live.
What we consume can have a significant impact. If we knowingly adopt a lifestyle to which our body objects – putting on weight is the most obvious objection – then achieving well-being becomes more difficult. Sugar exists in almost everything we consume, e.g., fructose in fruit, lactose in dairy products and glucose generally.
However your lifestyle leading you down a path to Type 2 diabetes , is the very last thing you want.
Many elements of our adult lifestyle can increase the risk of acquiring Type 2 diabetes, e.g., being overweight, not exercising, drinking to excess and smoking. What’s more, already having diabetes in the family also increases that risk.
In Jersey around 4,500 people have diabetes of which around ten per cent are Type 1.
Flu and COVID-19 continue to pose a risk to thousands of Islanders who have lower levels of protection.
Vaccination is an important part of building your defences. Particularly if you are at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 and the flu.
If you’re 65 and over, or pregnant, or living with certain health conditions you’re eligible for a flu vaccine.
If you’re aged 75 and over, or living in a care home for older adults, or immunosuppressed, you’re eligible for both a COVID-19 and flu vaccine.
Book your appointment today:
Contact your doctor’s surgery. For more information or to check you’re eligible visit gov.je/wintervaccines
The Importance of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations
As winter arrives, it’s crucial to think about keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe from illness. Two viruses that pose a risk to Islanders during winter are influenza and COVID-19. By increasing our defences through vaccination, our bodies are more able to fight off these viruses.
Why Vaccination is Crucial
Both flu and COVID-19 can be serious for many Islanders. According to Professor Peter Bradley, Director of Public Health and Medical Officer for Health, “Most people who get COVID-19 or flu experience mild illness, but some can develop severe disease.” This includes older people, young children, and those with conditions where the immune system may not be as strong, like heart or lung disease.
“The more people who are vaccinated, the less these viruses circulate, giving better protection for people with weaker immune systems and ensuring the health system can continue to function.” explains Prof. Bradley.
What’s in the Vaccines, and How Do They Work?
Both vaccines help the immune system build defences. They contain weakened proteins from the virus, allowing the immune system to develop a response without exposing us to the full virus. This means that if we do encounter the virus, our bodies are better prepared to fight it off quickly, helping us avoid serious illness. Over time, viruses mutate and our immunity wanes which is why booster doses are necessary. While not all vaccines prevent infection, they do significantly reduce the severity of the illness and risk of long-term complications.
Vaccine Safety
Vaccine safety is a common concern for some, especially given the speed at which COVID-19 vaccines were developed. Prof. Bradley emphasises, “COVID-19 vaccines went through the same rigorous testing as other vaccines but was done at speed thanks to advancements in technology. These vaccines have been administered to hundreds of millions of people, with their safety closely monitored.”
When Islanders choose to be vaccinated, the entire community is protected.
Professor Peter Bradley Director of Public Health
Side effects are usually limited to some soreness or redness at the injection site. “Serious side effects are rare and are much less common than the complications from the illnesses themselves.”
Prof. Bradley stresses.
Understanding Vaccine Fatigue
With regular COVID-19 boosters and other vaccines being offered over the last few years, some may feel exhausted by the idea of another. Prof. Bradley urges us to consider the broader picture: “These are serious diseases, and the viruses causing them are constantly changing. By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself but also those around you. Someone infected with flu could infect another four people.”
Defending Our Island Community
High vaccination rates in Jersey have helped us avoid outbreaks of illnesses seen in other places like measles. Prof. Bradley notes, “When Islanders choose to be vaccinated, the entire community is protected.”
“If you’re unsure about getting a flu or COVID-19 vaccine, a simple first step is to check your eligibility on gov.je or consult your GP. In most cases, they will reassure you that vaccination is safe and highly beneficial.”
It’s Never Too Late
The Royal Society for Public Health emphasises that it’s never too late to get vaccinated. Even if you’ve missed previous doses, it is still beneficial to protect yourself going forward.
Take a proactive step to defend your health and the wellbeing of your loved ones this winter. Getting vaccinated means fewer days spent ill and more time enjoying the season.
Contact your GP or visit gov.je/wintervaccines for more information.
News from Normandie
Anaïs Niobey, at St Helier-based Maison de Normandie, keeps us up to date with events just over the Channel or coming to Jersey directly from France.
Savez-vous que la Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche est installée à Jersey depuis 30 ans ?! Bureau de représentation de la Région Normandie et du Département de la Manche, notre rôle est de soutenir la coopération entre nos territoires et les îles Anglo-Normandes. Quel que soit le domaine d’activité, nous sommes là pour créer du lien !
En 30 ans, nous avons soutenu et/ou aidé de nombreux projets comme Le French Festival, les Corn Riots, le Tour des Ports de la Manche, les jumelages, de nombreuses rencontres sportives mais aussi économiques, diplomatiques, éducatives ou culturelles… Les Marchés Normands, si populaires depuis près de 20 ans, sont également organisés par notre bureau et nous sommes ravies d’annoncer que le prochain aura lieu du 8 au 14 décembre 2025 sur la place du Weighbridge.
Did you know that Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche has been based in Jersey for 30 years?! As the representative office of the Normandy Region and the Manche County, our role is to support cooperation between our territories and the Channel Islands. Whatever the field of activity, we’re here to help build connections!
Over the past 30 years, we have supported and/or helped bring to life many projects such as Le French Festival, the Corn Riots, the Tour des Ports de la Manche, the Twinnings, and numerous sporting, economic, diplomatic, educational, or cultural exchanges. The much-loved Norman Markets, which have been running for 20 years, are also organised by our office, and we’re delighted to announce that the next one will take place from 8 to 14 December 2025 at the Weighbridge.
If you’re heading to Normandy in the coming months, make sure to check out mesmerising illuminations of Bayeux Cathedral, from 17 December to 3 January. Antique lovers won’t want to miss the Puces Rouennaises from 16 to 18 January. You can also get your best costume ready and join the 152nd Granville Carnival from 13 to 17 February!
If you’d like more ideas for events in Normandy, sign up to our monthly Newsletter in English on www. maisondenormandie.com, or feel free to pop in and see us in our office on 71 Halkett Place.
Maison de la Normandie et de la Manche’s team is here to support you with all your Normandy-related projects.
A bientôt !
Par ailleurs, si vous vous rendez en Normandie ces prochains mois, pensez à aller voir la Cathédrale de Bayeux illuminée du 17 décembre au 3 janvier. Pour les adeptes des brocantes, les Puces Rouennaises vous accueillent du 16 au 18 janvier. Vous pouvez également préparer votre plus beau costume et vous rendre au 152ème Carnaval de Granville du 13 au 17 février.
Si vous souhaitez plus d’idées d’évènements en Normandie, inscrivez-vous à notre Newsletter mensuelle en anglais sur www.maisondenormandie.com ou n’hésitez pas à venir nous rencontrer dans nos bureaux au 71 Halkett Place.
Nous sommes à votre disposition pour vous aider dans tous vos projets avec la Normandie.
A bientôt !
Parish Recycling Calendar 2026
La Hougue Avenue
La Pouquelaye (top)
Landfield Drive
Le Breton Lane
Manor Park Avenue
Manor Park Road
Marett Court
Market Street
Millais Park
Mont Pinel
Mulcaster Street
Nomond Avenue
Orchard Mews
Palm Grove
Phillips Street
Pleasant Street
Rue des Arbres
Rue des Mielles
Sand Street
St James Place
Weighbridge (Place, from Ordnance Yard)
THURSDAY
Ann Street
Bath Street
Belmont Gardens
Belmont Place
Belmont Road
Boulevard Avenue
Brooklyn Street
Charles Street
David Place
Don Street
Farley’s Lane
Mont Cochon
Museum Street
Pomme d’Or Farm
Seafield Avenue
Simon Place
St Aubin’s Road
(Paris Lane to Seafield Avenue)
St Mark’s Road
Stopford Road
Tower Gardens
Tyneville Lane
Union Street
Victoria Avenue (all)
Victoria Street
THURSDAY
Cannon Street
Church Street
Clare Street
Commercial Buildings
Commercial Street
Conway Street
Devonshire Place
Dummy Lane
Elizabeth Lane
Esplanade
Fern Valley
Francis Street (Social Security)
Hastings Lane
Hastings Road
La Collette
La Route de la Libération
Le Mont Cantel
Le Quai aux Marchand
Le Clos de Balmain
Lemprière Street
Liberation Square
Manor Court
Midvale Close
New St James Street
Queen’s Lane
Roseville Street (all)
Roussel Mews
Roussel Street
Savile Street
Seaton Place
St Clement’s Road
(La Route du Fort to Colomberie)
The Parade
Upper Clarendon Road
Undercliffe Road
Upper Midvale Road
Victoria Crescent
West Park Avenue
Windsor Road
FRIDAY
Aquila Road
Bellozanne Valley
Clos St André
Devonshire Lane
Doue de St Croix
Garden Lane
Gloucester Street
Great Union Road (to Devonshire Place)
Great Union Street
Hansford Lane
Hilgrove Estate
Hue Street
James Street
Journeaux Street
La Rue Cyril Mauger
La Ruelle Vaucluse
La Villa au Roi
Landscape Grove
Le Clos St André
Le Douet de St Croix
Les Champs Park Estate
Millbrook Close
Millbrook Lane
Old Mont Cochon
Old St Andrew’s Road
Pied du Côtil
Pomona Road
Poonah Lane
Poonah Road
Route es Nouaux
Rue de Trachy
St Andrew’s Road
St James Street (Rue Funchal)
FRIDAY
Almorah Crescent Apts
Beaulieu Park
Clarendon Road
Clos du Parcq
Clos de Paradis
La Clos de Debenaire
La Grande Pouclée
La Pouquelaye (bottom)
La Rue des Chênes
Lower King’s Cliff
Palmyra Lane
Palmyra Road
Pen Y Craig Avenue
Peter Street
Pomona Lane
Queen’s Avenue
Raleigh Avenue
Raleigh Lane
Richmond Road
St Saviour’s Road
Upper King’s Cliff
Woodville Apartments
Woodville Avenue
Wellington Road (RHS up to La Rue des Chênes)
Parish Recycling Calendar
Your recycling is collected on the same day of the week as your refuse collection, but on a fortnightly basis. To find out your collection day and rotation group, please refer to the reverse of this feature.
Your recycling is collected on the same day of the week as your refuse collection, but on a fortnightly basis. To find out your collection day and rotation group, please find your street name below
NEED HELP?
Please get in touch on 01534 811705 or at municipalservices@sthelier.je.
MONDAY
Albert Street
Anley Street
Avenue et Dolmen
Brighton Lane
Brighton Road
Cheapside
Clairvale Cut
Clairvale Road
Clarke Avenue
Clearview Street
Columbus Street
Dorset Lane
Dorset Street
Gloucester Terrace
Great Union Road (from Poonah Road)
Hilary Street
Hilcrest Avenue
Hilgrove Street
Jardin des Carreaux
Kensington Place
Kensington Street
La Grande Route de Mont à l’Abbé
La Manoir de Mont à l’Abbé
La Pepiniere
La Retraite
La Rue des Canons
La Rue des Maupertuis
Le Vert Chemin
Le Hurel
Le Moulin Close
Lewis Street
Mont à l’Abbé Farm
Peirson Place
Pimley Close
Queen’s Road
Rouge Bouillon (Old Police
Station to 1st Stop Café)
Rue de l’Êst
Rue Fliquet
Ruette Pinel
Vine Street
MONDAY
Avenue du Petit Mont
Balmoral Drive
Beechfield Lane
Clos des Pas
Dongola Road
Drury Lane
Grands Vaux
Green Street
Greenwood Terrace
Grenville Street
Havre des Pas (all)
Hill Street
La Chasse
La Route du Port Eliz.
Les Ruisseaux
Library Place
Mont Neron
Mount Bingham
Nicole Close
Oaktree Gardens
Oaklands Lane
Pier Road
Regent Road
Rope Walk
Ruette des Parcqs
South Hill
Stafford Gardens
Stafford Lane
Sutton Court
Trinity Hill (top of Old Trinity Hill to Beechfield Lane)
Trinity Road/Trinity Gdns
Vale Court
Valley Road
Whitley Close
Wilkes Gardens
Willow Grove
TUESDAY
Abbotsmount
Abbotsmount Court
Apsley Road
Byron Lane
Byron Road
Chevalier Road
Clubley Estate
Common Lane
L’Avenue et Dolmen du Pre des Lumières
Elizabeth Place
Ellora Estate
Janvrin Road
La Colomberie
Le Clos Vaze
Le Grand Clos
Le Geyt Street
Newgate Street
New St John’s Road
Old St John’s Road
Oxford Road
Parade Road
Patriotic Place
Patriotic Street
Peirson Road
Robin Place
Springfield Lane
Springfield Road
St Mark’s Lane
Tunnel Street
Westmount Court
Westmount Estate
Westmount Road
St John’s Road
TUESDAY
Cleveland Avenue
Cleveland Road
Croydon Lane/Road
Croydon Terrace
d’Auvergne Lane
La Frédée Lane
La Route des Petits Camps
La Route du Petit Clos
La Route du Fort
Le Quai d’Auvergne
Marett Road
Mon Sejour (all)
Nelson Avenue
Old Trinity Hill (Le Vier Mont)
Payn Street
Peel Terrace
Rodney Avenue
Rue des Côtils
Seale Street
Springbank Avenue
Rue de la Hauteur
Runnymede Court
St Clement’s Road (La Route du Fort to Havre des Pas)
Town Mills Estate
Trinity Hill (Old Trinity Hill to Vallée des Vaux)
Vallée des Vaux
Wharf Street
WEDNESDAY
Abbey Close
Ann Place
Bellozanne Avenue
Bellozanne Road
Bond Street
Broad Street
Burrard Street
Cattle Street
Charing Cross
Clos du Bas
Craig Street
Duhamel Place
Duhamel Street
Dumaresq Street
Dunedin Farm
Gas Place
Grosvenor Street
Grove Street
Halkett Place
Halkett Street
Hautbois Gardens
Hillside Court
Hope Street
Ingouville Lane
Ingouville Place
King Street
La Côtil de Haute Clair
La Motte Street
La Petite Rue du
Val Plaisant
Mont Pelle
Mashobra Park
Midvale Road
Minden Place
Minden Street
Nelson Street
New Street (to Burrard St)
Ocean Apartments
Old Don Road
Old Street
Osbourne Court
Pitt Street
Providence Street
Queen’s Street
Richelieu Park
Royal Crescent
Rue de Podêtre
St Anne’s Farm
St Anne’s Terrace
St Aubin’s Road (town to Paris
La. inc Tyneville La.)
St Helier Court
Tower Road
Val Plaisant
Vauxhall Street
Waterloo Street
Wesley Street
Westhill
Winchester Street
York Street
WEDNESDAY
Adelina Wood
Beresford Street
Caledonia Place
Castle Street
Chapel Lane
Claremont Road
Clarence Road
College Hill
College Lane
Don Road
Fairfield Avenue
Fountain Lane
Greenacres Estate
Highview Lane
La Clos du Briard
La Grande Route de St Jean (to Greenacres)
St Helier
Household recycling collection 2026
This guide explains which materials are collected by the household recycling service, and what happens to it from there.
Every home in St Helier receives a recycling collection, in addition to the existing refuse collection. Information on collections can be found by contacting the Parish Municipal Services Team or via the Parish website, sthelier.je.
All the collected items are taken to Abbey Waste where they are separated into the different material types before being shipped to the UK for processing.
Paper and cardboard are sent to processing mills in the UK. Here they will be used to make paper products and packaging material.
Around 80% of paper and cardboard that’s produced in the UK is created using recycled content.
Plastic bottles are sent to a UK recycling plant where they are cut into small pieces and melted down to create recycled plastic.
Plastic bottles are made of either Type 1 (PET) or Type 2 (HDPE) plastic and will be used to make new plastic packing and bottles.
Household metal packaging such as food and drink cans are sent to a recycler where they are separated into aluminium and steel.
Metal is a great material that can be recycled again and again without losing its quality. It also takes a lot less energy to make new metal from recycled material than it does from raw materials.
The Parish recycling bags are made from recycled material and are also recyclable. We can only recycle the bags if they are clean so please make sure the items you recycle are clean and empty.
For more information, visit sthelier.je/recycling
For collection enquiries, contact Municipal Services. Tel (01534) 811708
Email Municipalservices@sthelier.je
NEWSPAPER
PLASTIC BOTTLES
BUTELKI PLASTIKOWE
GARRAFAS DE PLASTICO
Newspapers and magazines
Cardboard packaging and brown paper
Cardboard boxes
Catalogues and phone directories
Paper and envelopes
Wrapping paper (not shiny or metallic)
Greeting cards
Plastic bottles (all shapes and sizes)
Food and drink cans
Metal lids (from bottles and jars)
Aerosol cans (empty only)
Clean foil and foil trays
DRINK CANS
Milk and juice cartons
Shredded paper
Takeaway cups and food boxes
Metals
Plastics
Clothes / Textiles
Glass
Plastic pots, tubs and trays
Plastic bags
Plastic bottle pumps
Full/half full aerosol cans
Crisp packets and food wrappers
From Summer to Winter Community Policing Update
In this festive edition, we’d like to take you through what we’ve been up to in the wonderful Parish of St Helier — from sunny patrols to seasonal safety.
Summer in the Community
In May, we teamed up with the fantastic teams from Building a Safer Community, Jersey Youth Service, and Jersey Sport to launch the Beach Safe campaign. With dedicated patrols at Les Jardins de la Mer and Havre des Pas, we focused on safety and engagement.
This collaboration continued throughout the summer, with Jersey Sport helping us connect with young people through football, basketball, tennis, and golf — all in areas and at times where antisocial behaviour had previously been reported. These sessions were a huge success, helping build trust and showing young people that we’re more than just a uniform (even if they beat us at every sport!)
We were also proud to take part in some of Jersey’s biggest events. At the Boat Show and Children’s Day, we joined fellow emergency services and voluntary organisations to meet thousands of islanders. From trying on uniform to jumping in our response car and motorbike, it was a joy to see so many smiles — and meet some future recruits! We also celebrated the Fire Service’s 75th anniversary at their brilliant open day.
Tackling Retail Crime
Retail crime has been a key focus. We’re active members of the Town Team, a monthly meeting of retailers and stakeholders from the Government and the Parish. By listening to concerns and analysing intelligence, we’ve targeted repeat offenders and developed ShopSafe — a streamlined reporting and justice process that helps deliver faster outcomes.
Looking Ahead: Festive Safety
As the nights draw in, we’re turning our attention to acquisitive crime, which tends to rise in the darker months. We’re sharing advice to help keep your belongings safe — whether it’s your bike, your vehicle, or your Christmas shopping.
Bicycles
Photograph your bike and serial number, and register it at www. bikeregister.com. Use a D-lock to secure the frame and wheels, and take removable parts with you. Keep garages locked and consider a tracker. Adjust privacy settings on ride-tracking apps. Always check BikeRegister before buying second-hand.
Vehicles
Lock doors and windows, and remove valuables — including wallets, phones, and documents. Don’t leave clues like phone holders or spare keys inside (most thefts in Jersey involve unlocked cars with keys left in).
Consider parking in well-lit areas with CCTV. Tradespeople should mark and photograph tools, and consider lockable cabinets or cameras.
www.securedbydesign.com accredit products to improve security of vehicles and buildings.
This Christmas, we’re encouraging everyone to take care of themselves and each other with our Get Home Safe campaign. Whether you're heading out to celebrate, doing your shopping, or travelling between gatherings, we want you to enjoy the season and make it home safely. The campaign highlights the risks of excessive drinking and unsafe travel — and reminds us all to plan ahead, stay alert, and look out for our friends.
You’ll see us out and about at Halloween, Fireworks Night, the Remembrance Day Parade, and the Christmas lights switchon. We’ll be working with young people to reduce anti-social behaviour and spreading festive cheer while keeping our community safe.
If you see us, say hello — or get in touch at sthelier@jersey.police.je.
OUR PEOPLE
Shining a spotlight on some of the people who help make the Parish of St Helier a great place to live and work.
Janete Monteiro Meet
Street Cleansing Assistant Manager based at the Municipal Depot.
Janete has been a part of the Parish for two years bringing with her valuable experience from management roles in the retail and hospitality sectors. Originally from Portugal, Janete moved to Jersey 20 years ago.
Describing why she decided on the career change, Janete said, “I wanted a challenge. I’ve always enjoyed working with people and providing good customer service. What I love about working for the Parish is that we do something meaningful — we make a visible difference every day, and people notice that. When Parishioners stop to say thank you for keeping the streets clean, that really motivates me and my team.”
Janete and her street cleansing team play an essential role in preparing for and supporting Parish events, ensuring that public spaces are spotless before, during, and after activities. A highlight for Janete was supporting operations for the King’s visit or Liberation Day.
“The feedback was incredible — people said it was the cleanest they had ever seen the streets. That made me and my team feel really proud, and I made sure to share that recognition with them.”
A key part of Janete’s leadership approach is ensuring her team feels valued and respected, explaining “I’ve made it a priority to help my team understand how important their work is. They know they provide an excellent service to the community, and that they’re appreciated for it.”
Describing a typical day, Janete said “I start early each morning by checking the Town Centre, parks, and known hotspots. Then I review emails, plan the day’s tasks, and prepare for any
upcoming events. I always like to plan ahead — for big events, we start cleaning and organising one to two weeks in advance.”
Janete leads a team of 27, only two of which are women. Working in a predominantly male environment has never been a challenge for her: “At first, I thought it might be difficult, but my team has been fantastic. They respect that I work alongside them — if something needs doing, I’ll grab a blower or help with the power washing. They see that I’m part of the team, not just a manager giving instructions.”
“I love being out on the streets, working side by side with my team. That’s the best part of my day.”
Outside of work, away from the sweepers and lorries, Janete enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. She loves cooking and staying active adding, “I really enjoy cooking — especially traditional Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau and Cozido. I’m not the best baker, but I love preparing meals for my family.”
What Was but
THERE have been many histories written about the German occupation of the Channel Islands. The islands were the only British soil to be occupied by the Germans thus giving much to write about. This series of articles is not intended to be just another history of that time but an example of “What if…?”.
…in September 1942 an advertisement appeared in the Islands’ newspapers announcing that, at Adolf Hitler’s command, British-born men and their families were to be deported to Germany.
Could the unjustified deportation of non-combatant civilians to an unknown fate have been the trigger for an insurrection?
In Jersey, despite his colonel’s rank, Friedrich Knackfuss has not seen action since 1918 and the prospect of having to deploy armed force to quell civilian disorder is not one he wishes to contemplate. However, he has rarely seen Coutanche so angry at the notice and was acutely embarrassed when the usually urbane Bailiff accused him of a monstrous breach of faith.
The Islands’ Befehlshaber (commander in chief) in Guernsey, Generalmajor Erich Müller has been unhelpful. “You’re dealing with unarmed civilians, Friedrich, for God’s sake!”
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.
A compendium of myths, mysteries and minutiae of the only German Occupation of British Soil.
Compiled by Peter Tabb
What if…
“All routes to the harbour will be lined by armed troops,” Oberst Knackfuss announces. “Any attempt at disorder must be dealt with immediately. There must be no shooting. Unruly demonstrators must be detained, that’s all…”
The deportation notices are duly served and, to Knackfuss’s dismay, on 14 September, noisy crowds line the principal routes to the harbour to watch the deportees board the steamer La France for St Malo. And before the vessel sails with almost 300 detainees, the crowd will have grown to nearly five thousand.
On Pier Road is a gathering of almost two hundred young people who, since they are well away from the route of the deportees, are watched by only a handful of soldiers whose rifles are slung over their shoulders. In the crowd teenager Marguerite Mière begins to sing ‘There’ll always be an England’. Her song is taken up by the crowd with enthusiasm.
No-one knows who it is who throws the first stone but clearly many of the youngsters have filled their pockets with pebbles and pieces of brick. A stone strikes the helmet of a German soldier standing guard on the roadway below. Before the Germans can react, a hail of missiles falls down on them, knocking several from their feet. A soldier, Schütze Küpfler, unslings his rifle, intending to fire a warning shot above the heads of the throng, many of whom are his own age. However, Küpfer panics and pulls the trigger. The heavy Mauser K98k, its muzzle actually pointing downwards, fires. The bullet hits the road and ricochets into the crowd, hitting sixteen years old Daphne Le Bailly in the thigh. She falls to the ground screaming.
The crowd howls its fury but faced with alarmed soldiers holds back.
However, in the crowd one youngster draws back a catapult which is powerful enough, when firing a ball bearing, to kill a rabbit at 15 yards. Schütze Küpfer advances towards the crowd, his action entirely humanitarian since he is horrified to have shot someone, even by accident.
Although the picture is captioned “Star” – the Guernsey morning paper – the advertisement is identical to one that appeared in The Evening Post on the same date
but What If…
Daphne Le Bailly is lying on the road, moaning. As Küpfer bends over her, he is struck by a ball bearing fired just a few feet away. The bearing penetrates his skull above his eye and embeds itself in the soft tissue of his brain. In agony, Schütze Küpfer stumbles and falls. His colleagues cannot believe what they see. Despite the heavy Mausers the Germans are overwhelmed and punched and kicked to the ground in a frenzy of blows that their thick uniforms and helmets are helpless to deflect. Too late the crowd realises what is happening and suddenly they break and run, scattering in all directions, leaving four blood-soaked bodies lying in the roadway and a still moaning Daphne Le Bailly whose flesh wound is bleeding freely.
More armed Germans arrive on the scene. What they are unprepared for is four German soldiers and a teenage girl lying in the road, all bleeding profusely.
All the injured are bundled into vehicles and rushed to the General Hospital. Schütze Küpfer is pronounced dead on arrival. Daphne Le Bailly is treated alongside the injured soldiers.
La France sails for St Malo that evening with 280 deportees.
Oberst Friedrich Knackfuss is outraged. Schütze Küpfer was killed by a ball bearing probably fired by a catapult found in a gutter at the scene. Bailiff Coutanche is summoned and receives a severe dressing down and threatened with dire consequences.
“But we are talking about a crowd of almost two hundred youngsters,” Coutanche protests. “How will we ever find out who fired that ball bearing?”
“You must, Mr Bailiff,” Knackfuss replies. “Behlshaber, Generalmajor Müller, is most insistent and demands 20 hostages whose lives will be forfeit if the perpetrator is not forthcoming within seven days. I suggest that you publicise this action in The Evening Post.”
“If the perpetrator is found, what will happen to him?”
Although Bailiff Coutanche has a sickening apprehension of the perpetrator’s fate.
“That will be decided by the Militärgericht,” Knackfuss replies coldly. “We are not barbarians, Mr Bailiff.”
Following the rounding up of 20 hostages and publicity in The Evening Post, the morning before the German ultimatum expires, Mrs Edith Le Messurier appears at the Town Hall with her fifteenyear-old daughter Eunice and asks to see the Connétable. In the presence of Connétable Cuming and his Chef de Police, a tearful Eunice Le Messurier admits that it was she who fired the deadly ball bearing with her brother’s catapult.
PART 2
At 6.00 pm the hostages are freed and Mrs Le Messurier and her daughter are undergoing interrogation at the Feldkommandantur. Bailiff Coutanche insists the girl be legally represented but Knackfuss refuses. “This is entirely a military matter, Mr Bailiff.”
Within a matter of weeks Mrs Le Messurier and her daughter, have been transported to France, their sentences and ultimate fate unknown. Despite Bailiff Coutanche’s persistent enquiries and protests, he is unable to discover their fate.
They would be swept up by the notorious Nacht und Nebel (Night and Fog) decree of December 1941 whereby prisoners became property of the German state and could be made to disappear, usually to a death camp.
The foregoing is fiction, but could this have happened?
“What Was but What If” will be published next spring.
Friedrich Knackfuss
Christmas Light Switch On
The
Christmas Light Switch
On is set to mark the official start of Christmas in St Helier.
This year bringing even more Christmas magic into the Town Centre than ever before.
The Christmas Light Switch On traditionally coincides with the first night of late-night shopping, marking the official start of the festive period in Town, creating an exciting atmosphere for shoppers and visitors.
All being well, by the time you read this... Thursday 13 November, saw a tiny-tots Switch On happen on Parade Gardens, aimed at younger children who find the main switch-on event too late with lots of fun before the big man in red turns on the lights.
The main switch-on event marks a change from the usual Thursday night event with the parade and fireworks that many islanders have come to know and love.
A magical sensory-friendly switch-on ensures that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the magic of Christmas lights.
Not forgetting the return of the Battle of Flowers Christmas Parade, showing off the twinkling lights and incredible efforts of the float builders to transform the floats for Christmas.
We’d like to thank the Government of Jersey and Jersey Development Company for their support in making Christmas extra magical this year.
A Sleighful of Cheer
Jersey Round Table’s
Christmas Tradition Enters a New Era
Bringing Christmas Magic to the Island Since the 1960s
For over six decades, the Jersey Round Table has been at the heart of Jersey’s festive spirit. It all began in the 1960s, with the first magical arrival of Father Christmas at Jersey Airport—a moment eagerly awaited by generations of islanders. From there, the now-iconic Santas sleigh, lovingly chaperoned by the Elves of the Jersey Round Table (formerly shepherds), has become a cherished tradition that brings joy to every corner of the island.
Since 1970, two versions of the sleigh have faithfully served the community. The current sleigh, built in 1998, has become a familiar sight on island roads, visiting schools, parish halls, and neighbourhoods year after year. From St. Ouen to St. Helier, it has helped thousands of children and families experience the joy and wonder of Christmas up close.
But as we approach a new festive season and look ahead to 2026, Jersey Round Table is turning the page on a new chapter.
A New Sleigh for a New Generation
To ensure this much-loved tradition continues to enchant future generations, we’re going back to the drawing board. In true Round Table spirit, the team is rolling up their sleeves, gathering tools, paintbrushes, fibreglass, and maybe even a welder or two, to begin work on a brand-new sleigh that will debut in 2026.
All donations collected during the 2025 sleigh runs will go directly toward funding this exciting new build. And if you or your business would like to offer additional support, whether financial or material, we’d love to hear from you. This is more than a build—it’s a community project to futureproof the island’s festive traditions.
Who We Are
Jersey Round Table is more than just Christmas magic. We are a registered charity and a social club for men aged 18 to 45, dedicated to making a difference in our community. From organising local events to supporting charitable causes, our members give their time and energy to projects that matter— while building friendships and having fun along the way.
We meet twice a month on Tuesdays, hosting a mix of social evenings, sports, guest speakers, environmental projects, and hands-on community work—including, of course, building and operating the sleigh each year.
Get Involved
If you're a man aged 18 to 45 looking to expand your social circle, give back to the island, and get involved in something meaningful, we’d love to welcome you. Come along to a meeting, meet the team, and see what we’re all about.
For more information about the 2025 sleigh schedule, donating to the new sleigh build, or joining Jersey Round Table, please contact Stuart.crawford@jerseyroundtable.com or council@jerseyroundtable.com
Let’s keep the Christmas spirit alive—together
St Helier Sleigh Run Dates
SUNDAY 7 DECEMBER
Oak Tree Gardens, 16:45-16:55
MONDAY 8 DECEMBER
Centre Point La Pouquelaye, 15:35-16:00
MONDAY 8 DECEMBER
Jardin du Soleil (First Tower), 16:20-16:30
TUESDAY 9 DECEMBER
Centre Point South Hill, 15:30-16:00
TUESDAY 9 DECEMBER
Wellington Park, 16:10-16:30
WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER
The Bridge St Helier, 14:45-15:05
WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER
Cyril Le Marquand Court, 15:10-15:35
WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER
Le Clos Vaze, 16:30-16:45
WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER
Jardin Des Carreaux, 16:45-17:00
2025 in Review
2025 has been an exciting year for the Parish of St Helier with the opening of two new playgrounds and a summer packed with events. Here’s a look at what we’ve been up to this year:
January
The Parish officially launched its TikTok account, giving you more ways to keep up to date. The 1781 Jersey Militia marched into the Royal Square for the annual re-enactment of the Battle of Jersey.
February
The Parish awarded £25,000 to three charities to benefit and enhance the lives of Parishioners. New Love St Helier signs went up, hoping to put a smile on people’s faces.
March
Three new Ambassadors were chosen to represent the Parish for 2025/26.
April
Town walks returned to St Helier, with different tours being run every Tuesday throughout the Summer by different tour guides. Works on phase 1 of the first Neighbourhood Improvement Area were completed on Pomona Road, two new playgrounds opened their gates at Parade Gardens, and an extension of the cobbled surface was completed on Hilgrove Street.
May
St Helier hosted the Liberation 80 celebrations, putting on a festival at Parade Gardens and supporting the events around Liberation Square. Mayors from all five of St Helier’s Twin Towns visited for the occasion, enjoying a varied programme of events and getting involved with the community. Gandey’s Circus returned to People’s Park.
June
St Helier hosted the Jersey International Motoring Festival and Pride Festival.
July
The first Branchage visit took place, carrying out inspections on 58 roads, a rate increase of 1.35p or 2.3% was agreed at the annual Rates Assembly, Weekender festival returned to St Helier for its second year, and the Fete de St Helier and pilgrimage marked St Helier Day. The Town Takeover took over the Town Centre with businesses decorating their shopfronts ready for the Battle of Flowers.
August
The Battle of Flowers took to the streets of Town in a brand new format, which saw the floats travel through the heart of St Helier, the Havre des Pas Seaside Festival saw pre-Covid crowds, and the Portuguese Food Festival returned.
September
The second Branchage visit took place, and the Super Tri returned to the Waterfront, making Jersey the only place to host the prestigious event five times.
October
Things got spooky for the Halloween Trail as Town-goers were asked to vote for their favourite pumpkin in shop windows, the Jersey Marathon returned to the Weighbridge, and the Field of Remembrance was opened at the Cenotaph.
November
Remembrance week saw senior citizens head to the Town Hall for the annual Poppy Appeal Afternoon Tea, raising money for the Royal British Legion, and the Remembrance Sunday service was hosted around the Cenotaph, with the parade marching in front of the Town Hall. St Helier saw its biggest ever Christmas Light Switch On, with multiple events across three spectacular days, and the Christmas Window Competition was launched.
December
December will see lots of events happening around the Parish, from ice skating to performances, and the Town Hall will host senior parishioners for Christmas Lunch.
What a Minefield
St Helier’s close-run encounter with forgotten wartime explosives
An unexpected object hauled from the seabed outside St Helier Harbour in 1974 threatened disastrous consequences. As historian Ian Ronayne recounts, catastrophe was averted—thanks to brave deeds and a certain amount of good fortune.
WITH a satisfying slop, the latest bucketload scooped from the water tumbled onto the growing spoil heap. Nothing out of the ordinary… or was there?
Something solid and shiny caught the crane operator’s attention. His massive machine had hauled up a sinister-looking black canister from the seabed off the new breakwater being constructed at La Collette. What was this thing?
‘Stop! Everyone back away!’ The urgent shout rang out. A closer inspection confirmed suspicions: lying on the spoil heap was a 600-pound sea mine, packed with enough highly explosive TNT to devastate the entire area.
St Helier’s Undersea Minefield
Since development began in the 1700s, efforts have been made to protect St Helier Harbour from potential enemy attention. The British constructed formidable fortifications bristling with guns, and during the Occupation, the Germans added several defences—including two powerful minefields laid on the seabed outside the harbour entrance.
These mines were connected by cables to purpose-built bunkers: one standing at the base of the Elizabeth Castle breakwater, the other positioned on the stump of a second breakwater jutting from the foreshore at La Collette. From these installations, the occupying forces could remotely detonate the mines beneath any Allied vessels attempting to approach the pierheads.
As British forces prepared to liberate Jersey on 9 May 1945, they were aware of the minefields and understandably sought assurances that the mines had been rendered safe before entering the harbour. Under British supervision, German troops were then firmly ordered to disconnect the fire control panels.
In the subsequent clear-up operations, British personnel worked to remove the seabed mines along with thousands of tons of other enemy explosives. The Germans had turned the Island into a powder keg, and the disarmament effort was both prodigious and intended to be meticulous.
However, given the vast quantity of explosives secreted across the Island, the clear-up was evidently not as thorough as planned.
Missed Mines
Suspicions lingered after 1945 that not all the enemy mines laid outside St Helier Harbour had been removed—some might still lie undetected beneath ships passing daily in and out of the pierheads. In 1970, there was an opportunity to investigate.
A specialist Royal Navy diving team was on the Island carrying out a different high-explosive mission. The Arnold Maersk, a requisitioned German ship, had sunk with a hold full of bombs after striking a reef off the south coast in 1943. The divers had been tasked with removing and destroying this dangerous sunken ordnance.
Midway through the mission, the team also descended into the shallow waters off the Elizabeth Castle breakwater in July to examine the seabed. Cautiously following the remains of cables discovered near the former minefield control bunker, they soon encountered a sinister object—it was one of the German mines.
Eight more were subsequently found and recovered. Post-war suspicions had not been misplaced: the clear-up after Liberation Day had missed some of the deadly devices. Yet with these now destroyed, was the job finally done?
Clearly not quite—as the shocked crane driver working on the La Collette reclamation site in November 1974 discovered.
Tackling the Threat
Land was first reclaimed at La Collette to construct the Island’s power station, commissioned in 1966. The principle had caught on, and by the early 1970s, plans were underway for a far more ambitious scheme: the creation of a tanker berth, fuel farm, and marina facilities.
Work began in 1973 with the building of a lengthy retaining breakwater southward from La Collette, before turning it west towards Elizabeth Castle. It was a crane working on this westbound section that dredged up the mine on 10 November 1974. Work came to a hasty halt.
The man summoned to deal with the dangerous situation was locally based explosives expert Eric Walker. Mr Walker had settled in Jersey after arriving as part of the liberating forces in May 1945 and was now the Island’s bomb disposal officer. As he later wrote in his 1993 book Don’t Annoy the Enemy, he quickly recognised the object as a seabed mine—the question was how best to deal with it.
‘Detonating it was quite impractical,’ Mr Walker recalled, ‘Jersey Electricity’s power station and oil tanks were nearby. The second option was to dismantle it, but I could not find a way into the mine.’
The remaining logical solution was to move the device for detonation in a safer location—in this case, out at sea. For this, Mr Walker needed assistance, and an urgent call was placed to a Royal Navy bomb disposal squad based in Portsmouth. In the meantime, given the mine’s potential threat, the area around the reclamation site was sealed off as a precaution.
Expectations rose with the Navy team’s arrival the following day. Once briefed, operations began in the early afternoon to place the mine back in the water ready for removal.
However, an unexpected problem soon emerged: none of the experts knew how to operate the crane required to lower the mine back into the water. After some protestations, and presumably tense negotiations, the bomb disposal team persuaded the civilian crane driver to return and operate his machine.
Drama at Sea
With the mine back in the water, suspended beneath two empty oil drums, it could be towed out to sea—powered by the States’ fast launch Duchess of Normandy. Yet what seemed a
straightforward exercise soon turned into something far more dramatic.
The weather had turned decidedly stormy, with worsening sea conditions and fading light as the afternoon wore on. Worse still, the tow rope became snagged in the launch’s propeller, rendering the vessel unable to manoeuvre and potentially endangered by the mine still attached. A courageous diver was needed to enter the water, carefully untangle the rope, and free the propeller.
Given the conditions, the team decided to anchor the mine just outside the harbour rather than risk towing it further that day. Although the weather and sea had scarcely improved by the following morning, the launch succeeded in towing the mine to a position roughly one mile offshore. There, using a controlled explosion, the device was detonated. With a throaty boom and a towering plume of water, the whole event was over.
End of the Matter?
Commenting afterwards, Mr Walker—later awarded a British Empire Medal for his services to the Island—said there was only a very small chance that any further mines remained on the seabed outside St Helier Harbour. The clearance in 1970, and now this operation four years later, had finally completed the unfinished task left over from the Liberation.
Given his undoubted expertise and long experience, it seems safe to assume Mr Walker was right. However, he did say small chance, not no chance—so please take care if there is a further need to poke around the waters off St Helier Harbour. It’s proved to be a bit of a minefield, after all.
St Helier Youth Projects
First Tower Youth Project
Spray art session - Stephen from St Andrews church ran a spray art session for some of our young people. We love to work with other community groups, and the team at St Andrews church are fantastic.
Spooky fun – Halloween saw a visit to Crabbe for an evening of Halloween activities, including local storytelling around the fire and a spooky trail through the woods.
Time to give thanks - We recently held a celebration event giving thanks to all the young people, volunteers and staff who make a difference week in week out. The project depends on volunteers and young helpers to open sessions alongside paid sessional staff, many of which started as volunteers. If you have an interest in helping out with a possibility of paid work in the future we’d love to hear from you. To arrange an informal chat or for more information email billmoore@jys.je
La Pouquelaye Youth Project
During the wonderful sunny days of August a small group of young people from La Pouquelaye Youth Project were invited by Jersey Property Holdings to take part in painting a mural at the newly refurbished West Park toilets. The mural is a visual representation of the area through the ages. This was an amazing opportunity for our budding artists to learn how a public art project is put together from start to finish, whilst learning hands-on skills and techniques. A massive thank you to Bokra, aka Ben Robertson, for sharing his time and his talents. The young people are very proud of their contribution, if you are passing go check it out!
Our Monday seniors cooking session continues to grow and develop with our young people taking on new challenging recipes every week. Over the past few weeks the young people have made sushi, lava cakes and the ultimate mac and cheese, and with Christmas coming up we're looking forward to that yummy festive baking.
The Wednesday sports session at Haute Vallee school has now moved into the sports hall for the winter. Come join us for a kick around or game of netball.
Our Thursday junior sessions run out of First Tower Youth Club and continue to offer a wide range of activities whether you're interested in sports, arts and crafts, outings or learning new skills, there's something for everyone. We warmly welcome new joiners from Year 5 upwards. To get involved get in touch with simonjones@jys.je
The Culture Club Youth Project
The Culture Club Youth Project is open to young people from migrant backgrounds looking for connection, fun, and support. A welcoming space to make friends, share cultures, and build confidence. Tuesdays, 4pm-8pm at the Move on Youth Café. Get in touch with catiateixeira@jys.je for more information.
Grow Jersey: Cultivating Community and Sustainability
A lot can happen in a year, and Grow Jersey is living proof. This vibrant community smallholding has rapidly become a beacon for sustainability, inclusion, and wellbeing in St Helier.
Founded to address nutritional poverty, loneliness, and biodiversity loss, Grow Jersey’s mission is simple: grow food for the community using regenerative land management practices, foster nature connection and build a thriving community.
The site itself is a testament to community spirit and environmental stewardship. With over 120 fruit and nut trees, fruit bushes, vegetables, flowers, and herbs, and 1km of pollinator patches, Grow Jersey is transforming this 13 vergee field into a vibrant hub of biodiversity. The project welcomes everyone—from school groups to community groups, businesses and individuals—offering therapeutic horticulture, education, companionship and the chance to connect with nature.
Accelerating Growth with Community Support
The past year has seen Grow Jersey accelerate its development, thanks in large part to external funding. At the heart of the project is funding from Jersey Community Foundation who support both our Outdoor Educator and Head of Operations.
We are working with MS Planning to complete Building Control and hope to progress the community building in the coming year – a small production kitchen and a community space and workshop.
Heading into the winter we are delighted that we now have our first polytunnel in use, thanks to funding from St Helier Youth & Community Trust, Lloyds Bank Intl and a private donation. This will enable our school and community groups to come to Grow in all weathers!
Ongoing thanks are also extended to the Parish of St Helier, who support Grow in many ways - a true partnership.
Celebrating Volunteers and Community Connection
Despite the rain, our “Bee-autiful” event at the end of August was a huge success as we moved activities into the new polytunnel. Attendees learned about bees & pollinators, enjoyed hands-on workshops, and discovered ways to support bees at home. The day showcased Grow Jersey’s resilience and community spirit, proving that nature and connection thrive whatever the weather.
Regular community gardening sessions, such as the “Gather and Grow” group, meet weekly, providing opportunities for islanders to learn, share, and support each other. These gatherings are more than just about gardening; they are lifelines for those seeking connection, purpose, and well-being.
Sponsorship and Sustainability
Grow Jersey’s innovative sponsorship model invites local businesses to support lanes of fruit and nut trees, with the first lane sponsored by Ogier. This partnership not only provides working capital but also encourages staff to volunteer, helping with maintenance and community events. Please contact us on hello@growjersey.co.uk if you would like to find out more.
Looking Ahead
Grow Jersey’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and hope—a reminder that when a community comes together, the seeds of change can truly flourish.
Please come along to one of our community sessions to find out more: Tuesdays 1pm - 1pm, Saturdays 2pm - 4pm and Wednesdays (summer only) 5.30pm - 7pm.
Urban Legends
Urban trees have become something of a cause célèbre recently, with good reason. While we’ve long known about their benefits, the idea is now gaining wider traction.
There’s no shortage of excellent reasons for this, of course, including the twin drivers of shade and cooling; indeed, most of us have experienced the heat-retaining properties of concrete and metal that can make urban life unbearable, especially further south.
Boosting urban tree cover is a relatively simple way to improve life for millions, with statistics firmly backing this up. It’s beyond doubt that urban tree cover lowers maximum temperatures, reducing heat-related deaths. In fact, a 2023 study in The Lancet posited that 30% canopy cover in Europe could have prevented almost 40% of deaths during extreme heatwaves.
Spending time around trees provides a wide range of health benefits, notably improving air quality, lowering blood pressure, boosting immunity and reducing the prevalence of heat-related health issues. It also reduces stress and anxiety, improves mood and can even benefit cognitive function.
In 2021, Dutch urban forestry expert Dr. Cecil Konijindijk devised a new rule of thumb for urban planning. Seeking a mantra to “enhance urban greenery, biodiversity, climate adaptation and public health”, he coined 3+30+300:
• At least three mature trees visible from every home, school and workplace.
• Minimum 30% tree canopy cover in every neighbourhood.
• Residents live 300 metres (max.) from nearest high-quality green space.
While the numbers clearly have an arbitrary element to them, the criteria do not. Tree visibility, canopy cover and access are all integral to optimal neighbourhood life.
How does St Helier fare? Let’s not forget how many of us head there daily, after all. According to Global Forest Watch, it has 4.17% cover – a very low figure compared to UK cities like London and Birmingham (18-19%) or even the least green US cities like Denver (9.6%) and Phoenix (8.5%).
While it’d be wrong to compare like-for-like with these metropolises, it’s still a fascinating metric that strongly suggests we could be a lot greener. You can’t plant trees anywhere, however, making it vital to protect what we have.
For example, the felling of 33 mature trees at St Joseph’s Care Home was successfully blocked but, at the time of writing, is under appeal. These are the only trees visible to many of the residents, providing colour, wildlife and seasonal variation in a way only nature can.
Surprisingly few trees are protected locally and there’s certainly a strong case for more tree protection. Architects can also make a huge difference by integrating existing trees into design.
It’s not going to get any cooler, so it’s time to up our urban tree game.
Beautiful magnolia tree at St Joseph’s
Three trees outside St John’s Ambulance add leafy greenery to Midvale Road
A stunning old tree in La Motte Street
Percentage of tree cover by parish according to Global Forest Watch, 2020
Discover what’s on this
at The Harbour Gallery Jersey
Welcoming you to a magical exhibition of local art and craft.
• Jersey Book Worm and Poets Corner
• Support local writers and poets by choosing the best reads from The Jersey Bookworm & Poets Corner... adults and children
• Entrelac Yarns - For those with a love of knitting and crochet
• The Lauren Radley Shop
• Arts & Crafts materials with lots of choice
• Gift Vouchers always available, £10, £20, £50, £100 to use against courses or purchases
A vibrant collection of mixed media paintings exploring place, parish and palette, reflects deep connection to landscape and community, blends colour, texture, and memory evoking a sense of belonging, artistic interpretation.
RE CONNECTING New work from
A popular artist with us at St Aubin, Lisa took time off from her painting but in 2025 felt it was time re-connect brush and canvas, producing a series of abstract figurative paintings.
Exhibiting the work of painters, printmakers, photographers, jewellery makers, 3D artists, textiles and much more.
21st - 24th Dec 25th Dec - 4th Jan 5th Jan 9.30am - 4.30pm Closed normal hours
Scan to find out more
Help to prevent flooding:
Dos and don’t s
As the wetter weather approaches and autumn draws in, we kindly ask Islanders to take simple steps to help prevent flooding. By working together, we can reduce the risks to our roads, homes, and environment.
DO
Check and clean your drains and gutters
Ensure your gutters and surface water drains are free of debris, particularly after heavy rain.
Maintain watercourses
If a stream or watercourse runs through your property, keep it clear to ensure the free flow of water and prevent upstream flooding.
DON’ T
Don’t leave branchage debris on roads
After completing branchage or bank maintenance, ensure any cuttings are fully cleared from the road. Leaves, twigs, and branches can block drainage systems.
Help with road gullies
If you notice a road gully covered with leaves or debris, and wet weather is on the way, please clear it to help water drain properly.
Drive carefully through flooded areas
If flooding occurs, slow down when driving through these areas to avoid making the flooding worse or splashing pedestrians.
Don’t rush to report flooded gullies
After heavy rainfall, give gullies time to handle the excess water. Flooding during heavy rain does not always mean a blockage; it often just takes time to drain.
KEEPING
Delivering more than Healthcare –the Social Value of the new Acute Hospital
In my previous quarterly updates on the progress of the New Healthcare Facilities Programme (NHFP), I have focused on key developments and milestones. However, this Programme is about more than just bricks and mortar – it is about creating lasting benefits for Jersey that extend well beyond the enhanced healthcare services enabled by the new buildings and infrastructure.
What is Social Value – and why does it matter?
I confess, Social Value is not something that meant a lot to me as a phrase before I started working as a Minister. Here, it refers refers to the broader positive impact a project can have on society beyond its core purpose. These are all part of a business case for a project that tries to communicate not just the cost of a project, but also the benefits, including Social Value. For the NHFP, this means making sure that every pound invested not only delivers new healthcare infrastructure, but also supports jobs, skills development, community wellbeing, and environmental sustainability, locally and also globally.
Social value is considered in every procurement across the Programme, ensuring that benefits are measurable and meaningful. Contractual commitments will deliver long-lasting improvements for Jersey – during construction and into the future. This is a Government of Jersey requirement for all procurements and the NHF Programme is taking it very seriously.
The Programme has committed to 19 areas for Social Value that are aligned with Jersey’s Common Strategic Policy and the Future Jersey vision, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Social value in action – Jersey Demolition Contractors
Much of the social value activity will be confirmed once a Main Works Delivery Partner has been appointed, however meaningful social value is already being achieved through contracts already awarded. For example, social value was fully embraced by Jersey Demolition Contractors (JDC) during the demolition of more than 20 buildings and associated structures at Overdale. Amongst other social value, JDC added:
• more than 200 hours volunteering towards biodiversity at Overdale, including planting and replacing hedgerows that were damaged by Storm Ciarán
• sub-contracted work as part of the demolition project to at least 10 local companies
• provided more than 300 hours of training and development as part of the Overdale demolition contract, enhancing the knowledge and skills of the existing workforce
In addition, JDC donated more than £13,000 worth of demolition waste from the site, including timber to local charities to support the circular economy.
Constructing Your Success
The Constructing Your Success education outreach programme, which ran in October 2024, was designed to inspire young people to explore careers inconstruction and the built environment. Delivered as a partnership between the NHFP team and Skills Jersey, the initiative aimed to build students’ confidence, skills, and awareness of the wide range of careers available within the sector.
During the programme, the team hosted a week of sessions tailored for students in Years 7 to 11. A total of 12 sessions were delivered, supported by 19 volunteers – including the NHFP team and professionals from contractors working on the NHFP – who collectively contributed 136 hours of their time. The programme included creative engineering challenges, project management tasks, and insights into roles such as quantity surveying, architecture, and electrical engineering.
Feedback from the week was overwhelmingly positive. Of the 23 students who attended, 91% reported feeling inspired to pursue a career in construction by the end of
• employed six people facing barriers or challenges to employment to work on site.
it is a long-term commitment. The Programme’s approach includes monthly monitoring, quarterly reviews, and annual reporting with all parties involved in the Programme (including professional advisors) to ensure that objectives are met, and lessons are learned.
This structured and robust approach ensures that social value is delivered consistently and meaningfully throughout the life of the Programme. As described here, it’s not just the Programme’s contractors who contribute towards the social value initiatives, but the Government of Jersey Programme team, too.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SHINGLES
This year more Islanders are eligible for their shingles vaccination than ever before:
Those aged 50+ with a weakened immune system
Those turning 60 this year
Those aged 68 to 79 who have not previously been vaccinated for shingles
Anyone who's had chickenpox in the past may still go on to develop shingles.
Vaccination provides strong protection from shingles and reduces your chances of getting serious problems if you do get shingles.
Shingles can be very painful and is most common in people aged 60+.
Contact your doctor’s surgery to book an appointment today.
St Helier Town Hall
St Brelade Parish Hall
St Clement Parish Hall
St Ouen Parish Hall
Trinity Parish Hall
St Saviour Parish Hall
St Martin Public Hall
10am-12pm
Throughout
Celebrations Brightly 100 Years
Brightly, formerly Brig-y-Don Children’s Convalescent and Holiday Home, has been celebrating a 100 years of supporting children in Jersey with events ranging from planted flower displays in the Howard Davis and The Lower Park courtesy of the Parish of St Helier; flying of the Brightly flags all over the island and the publication of an original book launched at St Clement’s Primary School and given to children in Years 1 and 2 islandwide.
Two special events were held, one at Brig-y-Don House for people with a connection to the home, the other at Government House in June where many memories were shared and old friendships renewed.
The centenary will end with the planting of a time capsule at Brig-yDon House to be opened in another 100 years.
Saying Goodbye After 46 Years
The centenary year will see the retirement of its longest serving member of staff Allison le Blancq after 46 years.
“My 46-year journey with Brig-y-Don Children’s Charity began in 1979 with a one-year role in the playgroup. The wonderful staff showed me what it was to be part of a caring, fun, supportive team who looked after and advocated for the children, unable to be with their families, with such compassion that I am still with the charity.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff and Board members I have worked with over the years. It has been a privilege to work for such an invaluable charity,” she said.
Brightly wishes to thank all its donors large or small for the support given to the charity and looks forward to the next 100 years!
For more information contact Wendy@brightly.je
www.brightly.je
Be Safe, Be Seen Road Safety Week 2025
This November saw Jersey once again take part in Brake’s annual Road Safety Week. The theme for 2025 was ‘Be Safe, Be Seen’, reminding all of us of the importance of visibility when travelling in the darker winter months.
The Infrastructure and Environment Department, together with Driver and Vehicle Standards (DVS) and the States of Jersey Police (SoJP), delivered a programme of events and activities under the framework of Building a Safer Community. The focus was staying safe in low-light conditions, whether walking, cycling, riding a moped, or driving.
School Assemblies
Key Stage 2 pupils across the island took part in special ‘Be Safe Be Seen’ assemblies and each child received a reflective slap band to encourage safer journeys.
Moped & Motorcycle Checks
For Year 12 riders, DVS offered free safety inspections of mopeds and motorcycles. These checks focused on ensuring lights and indicators were working properly, and advice was given on maintenance and replacing bulbs.
Motorist Engagement
To reach drivers, SoJP carried out night-time vehicle light checks supported by the Comité des Chefs de Police.
Online Campaign
Alongside these activities, the Jersey Road Safety Hub (www. jerseyroadsafety.je) was updated with new guidance and refreshed its ‘Be Safe Be Seen’ information.
By working together – schools, young riders, motorists and the wider community – we can all play a part in reducing risks on our roads this winter.
So, as the evenings draw in, remember the simple rule: If you’re out and about – Be Safe, Be Seen
RBC flying flags for Brightly in 2025
Allision le Blancq – retiring after 46 years
Information & Contacts
TOWN HALL
PO Box 50, St Helier, Jersey JE4 8PA 811811 / townhall@sthelier
Open: 08:45 to 16:45pm Monday to Friday www.sthelier.je
ELECTED OFFICIALS
CONNÉTABLE
Simon Crowcroft / 811821 / constable@sthelier.je
PROCUREURS DU BIEN PUBLIC
Peter Pearce / 639533 / peter.pearce@sthelier.je
John Baker / 07797 725879 / john.baker@sthelier.je
The next Parish Assemblies will be held on Wednesday December, 28 January, and 25 February at 7pm in the Town Hall. The meeting paperwork will be available from the Town Hall and sthelier.je no fewer than five days before.
Roads Committee Meetings
The next Roads Committee meetings will take place on Wednesday 17 December, 14 January, 11 February and 11 March at 9:30am in the Town Hall. Members of the public are invited to attend part ‘A’ of the agenda. The meeting paperwork will be available from the Town Hall and sthelier.je no fewer than five days before.
Havre des Pas Improvement Group Meetings
The next Havre des Pas Improvement Group meetings will take place on Thursday 11 December, 8 January, 12 Feburuary and 12 March at 6pm at the Lido. To join the mailing list to receive the minutes and agendas from the meeting, please email elise.wetherall@sthelier.je
