RGLI ceremonies held in Guernsey and France
SIMULTANEOUS memorial ceremonies were held in Guernsey and France yesterday to remember the Royal Guernsey Light Infantry.
Today is the anniversary of the battle where the force managed to hold the line as the Germans attempted a counter offensive after the Battle of Cambrai, which was the reason for yesterday’s event.
Lieutenant-Governor Sir Ian Corder, Deputy Bailiff Jessica Roland and Royal British Legion representatives from Guernsey and Sark were present at the special service yesterday morning, which was held in front of the memorial stone in the Sunken Garden.
It was held at noon, while the French service in St Peter Port’s twin town of Masnieres was held at the same time at 11am French time.
Wreaths and flowers were laid.
The work of the RGLI charitable trust is not just about memorials though, chairman Chris Oliver said: ‘We’re moving from commemoration to sharing culture,’ he said. ‘So taking this forward there will be an exchange of students between Blanchelande College and a school in Masnieres. We are also looking at a derelict building, which was there during World War One, which is behind the memorial.’
He said they wanted ideas on what could be done with the building. It has been a year since the twinning of the two towns took place, but Covid-19 has postponed events. It is hoped a RGLI memorial ride will be able to take place in May next year, after being postponed earlier this year.
St Peter Port Constable Jenny Tasker said they were keen to do more with the town.
‘I think it is very important that Guernsey has made this connection with Masnieres,’ she said.
‘We would like to go in May, if possible. We are keen to build the relationship and find out more about the town.’
