Parishes plan their own events to mark Liberation Day 75
PARISHES are gearing up for the 75th anniversary of Liberation Day, but they are steering clear of 9 May to ensure they do not clash with the island-wide celebrations.
The Bailiff has made the request to ensure that interest is not drawn away from the main celebrations in Town.
St Martin’s is planning to hold a family party event with a hog roast in the field beside the community centre on Sunday 10 May.
St Andrew’s vice-dean and parish Liberation Day co-ordinator Mike O’Hara said they were in the final planning stage for their plans, which would take place on Sunday 10 May.
‘The idea is to have a service at the underground hospital at about 9am,’ he said.
‘This would be followed by a service at the church.’
Festivities would then kick off, with the Last Post being the focal point. A tea party of people aged around 75 will be held and there will be entertainment for families.
Torteval is also planning a big party and they are inviting all islanders. It is being held on 16 May in the glebe field in front of the church. New Bailiff Richard McMahon will open a Liberation display in the hall and there will be music, sheep racing, a meat draw and a funfair on the field. In the evening there will also be live music.
Constable Sue Aldwell said they had been planning the event for a year.
‘It is open for everyone to come along.’
Castel has a number of activities planned. Two parish walks will take place on Tuesday 5 May and Thursday 7 May. An exhibition will take place in the douzaine room on Thursday 7, Friday 8 and Sunday 10 May. A family fun day will be taking place at Fairfield between 11am and 3pm on Friday 8 May.
On Saturday 9 May, the traditional flag blessing ceremony will take place at Cobo at 10am.
Vale senior constable Richard Leale said there were would be a static display about the Occupation in the douzaine room over the weekend.
St Peter Port douzaine confirmed they had no plans to organise any celebrations beyond the island events, which are focused in Town. St Saviour’s and St Sampson’s have also said they currently have nothing planned. St Peter’s are meeting next Tuesday to discuss their ideas for the event. Forest is planning to do something, but the plans have not yet been finalised.
Some parishes have said they plan to make floats.
