Air Race organiser's Royal Aero Club accolade

ISLANDER Ralph Burridge has been honoured for his services to air racing.

Former Aurigny pilot Ralph has organised the Alderney Air Races for the past 14 years and his support of the event has been recognised by the Royal Aero Club.

Ralph and wife Maggie, head teacher at Ormer House School, were recently invited to the club's Annual Symposium and Award Presentation in Hinckley, Leicestershire.

'I hadn't been invited to the event before and thought it would just be a "sales pitch" to get more people to attend the races,' said Ralph.

'But how wrong I was - it was a great night out and the presentation of a superb Waterford Crystal clock came as a complete surprise.'

Ralph said the popular races could not take place without a big community effort.

'The reason the event has been so successful is down to the support it has been given by both the island populace and its business community, especially the sponsors and those who look after our guests so well on the Friday and Saturday evening social gatherings. However much work you put into such an event, without the support of the island it would all be in vain.'

Ralph also thanked Maggie for her continuous support, as well as the willing helpers who pitch in throughout the event.

'Alderney is the highlight of the season,' said racing team chairman Tim Wassell.

'To race there is always a unique experience.

'People still have time to chat, pass the time of day and, of course, smile and be friendly.

'The unique atmosphere is the real reason why the Royal Aero Club holds Alderney in such high esteem and why it is regarded by all the race pilots as their favourite venue.'

* The 2011 races will be held over the weekend of 24 and 25 September.

This year's Miss Alderney contest is to be held at Easter as organisers try to encourage more girls to take part. Only two young women - Jo Woodnutt and Hannah Osborne - entered last year's event and although they did a fabulous job of promoting Alderney Week, it was felt that a fresh outlook was needed.

'The date for this year's contest has been brought forward to Easter Saturday, 23 April, which should enable more young ladies - aged 17 to 25 - who may be studying off the island to enter and take part,' said organiser Ilona Soane-Sands.

'Also, from 15 February, candidates will be able to download the entry form from our website, via our special Miss Alderney 2011 page.'

Ilona also revealed that there are plans to introduce a new format on the night.

'There will be a different programme of events, but nothing can be revealed until 15 February. However, we can promise everyone that it will be a fantastic experience for all contestants and a brilliant night for everybody else.'

In past years, Miss Alderney has represented the island at Jersey's Battle of Flowers and at twinning events with French town Beaumont Hague. The beauty queen is also required to present prizes at various Alderney Week events.

* Visit www.alderneyweek.net for further information on the event.