Events in Alderney mark 75th Homecoming Day anniversary

EVENTS have been held in Alderney to mark the 75th anniversary of Homecoming Day.

There was a re-enactment of the events of 75 years ago to mark the important day in Alderney’s history. Parents and children, dressed in period clothing, were joined by Lt-Governor Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder and Lady Corder, back row, second and third right. (Pictures by David Nash)

Unlike the 75th anniversary of Liberation in May, when celebrations and commemoration were held virtually due to coronavirus restrictions, the planned events were able to go ahead.

Local children and parents re-enacted the homecoming landing, when those who had been forced to leave the island returned after the Occupation.

There was a wreath laying by Alderney States President William Tate at the memorial stone in the harbour, which followed an ecumenical service led by the Dean, the Very Rev. Tim Barker, in the parish church.

This was followed by a vin d’honneur in the Island Hall at which a letter from the Queen was read by the Lt-Governor, Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder.

Later there was a tea dance for homecomers and their families with entertainment by the island band and soloist Rosie Evans, who sang songs by Vera Lynn and other wartime hits.

A portrait of homecomer Beda Thompson by Guernsey artist Olympia McEwan was unveiled by her sister, Hira Moore.

The UK’s Ministry of Justice also marked the occasion. ‘I am proud that the Ministry of Justice is flying Alderney’s flag to mark the 75th anniversary of the island’s Homecoming Day,’ said the Lord Chancellor, Robert Buckland.

‘The UK’s relationship with Alderney is a historic one and I am pleased to be able to mark this important anniversary.’