Firing noonday gun best part of job – new keeper
THE noonday gun was fired for the first time this year yesterday, as Castle Cornet opened its portcullis to the 2023 season.
That was not the only first of the day, as Stuart Falla put his name in the history books as the new castle keeper by unleashing the 25 gram saluting charge to ring around St Peter Port.
‘It was terrifying but also such an immense honour,’ he said. ‘It’s definitely the best part of the job.’
A rainy start to the morning quickly dried up and saw a crowd of about 30 islanders and tourists witness the castle keepers march out to traditional music, take their positions at Gunners Tower, and fire the gun under a much sunnier sky.
The keepers were on hand for photos after the ceremony.
The tradition dates back to early 19th century when a gun was fired at noon and again at 9.30pm to recall the soldiers of the garrison to their barracks.
It was discontinued in 1923 and brought back as a visitor attraction in 1974.
Mr Falla started in his position in January, having previously worked at G4S in its fire extinguisher department.
He found out about the role from the Job Centre and said he did not think twice about taking it up.
‘It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and a chance to represent your island. There were no questions I knew I wanted it.’
He joins long-time castle keeper Shaun Marsh and Dave Malledent, who joined in 2021 to form a team of three, part of the 15-strong group of staff at the castle.
The keepers’ duties include maintaining the castle, opening and closing the gates at the correct time, and carrying out its gardening programme.
Mr Marsh described how the latest addition to the team has been preparing.
‘Stuart has been training for three months and we’re now easing him into the role. He’s learning on the job.’
n Castle Cornet is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm and will host a variety of different events, including the KPMG Castle nights, until October 29. More information is available at museums.gov.gg/CastleCornet.
