Flag, fishermen blessed at Cobo service
THE Grosse Rocque flag and local fishermen were blessed at Cobo yesterday.
Those who lived during times of war and oppression were remembered.
Attendees moved to Cobo Community Centre afterwards for tea, nibbles and a natter.
Winds in 2019 and last year’s cancellation due to Covid restrictions meant it was the Rev. Scott Lamb’s first year on the slipway. He said it was wonderful to see it so well attended.
‘It is a very short service as an act of worship for our freedom and peace, praying that it may continue.’
Hosting parish events was said to bring the community together.
The Rev. Beverley Herve said blessing the fishing community continues a long-standing tradition.
‘St Matthew’s Church was built for the fishermen, so that they didn’t have to go to Castel [Parish Church].’
Paul Fairclough has attended for 40 or 50 years.
‘It’s a brilliant, wonderful, fantastic celebration of Liberation and absolutely gets better each year,’ he said.
Paul Benstead and Matt Le Page installed the flag, this year including an additional Guernsey Together variety.
Mr Le Page said it was his first time. The flag must be replaced annually after exposure to the elements.
‘I’ve been asking about it for seven or eight years. It’s quite an honour really.’
Attendees were supported by a choir to sing Sarnia Cherie and God Save The Queen.
Chorister Jem Guilbert said: ‘I love the tradition of Liberation Day and that Guernsey has its own holiday. My grandfather, Harold Guilbert, stayed in Guernsey during the Occupation.’
Three cheers were given at the end of the service.
