St Peter Port constable steps down after 30 years’ service

She has served the parish for nearly 30 years, at various times holding the offices of people’s deputy, senior constable, junior constable and douzenier.

Mrs Tasker, pictured, a former head teacher of La Mare de Carteret High School, now said she wanted to have ‘a little more me time’.

‘It has been absolutely fascinating,’ she said.

‘Things like the Market buildings being developed, broken walls and making sure that graves can be opened, which does happen, and sectioning people, a task that was undertaken by constables.

‘We often work with States departments to make sure that our parish is well kept.

‘I’ve also enjoyed showing people around our office.

‘There is lots of history there and it’s a beautiful building.’

Mrs Tasker also enjoyed welcoming French dignitaries and yacht crews to the island, although she added that her language skills were better in German.

‘People need to be community-minded and people-oriented if they want to be a douzenier or constable, she said.

Mrs Tasker also recalled dealing with Sunday opening legislation, liquor licensing and betting shop licensing.

Senior constable Zoe Lihou said she respected Mrs Tasker’s decision, but added that she would be missed because of her experience, knowledge and enthusiasm.

‘Jenny stepping down is a huge loss as she was such a great asset to the team,’ said Mrs Lihou.

‘When I started, she was a real fount of knowledge, and she works so hard on everything she is involved in.

‘We will all miss her but it’s nice to see her enjoying her life. Her last official duty was the welcoming speech for the Masnieres Mayor for our twinning events this year.’

Mrs Lihou said she was pleased with her team of colleagues running the parish.

‘We have had some people who are just as savvy as Jenny putting themselves forward for the vacancies of douzenier and constable that we now have,’ she said.

‘They are all people who the office can work well with.’

A meeting to elect a new constable, and fill a vacant douzenier’s seat, will be held at the Constables’ Office in Lefebvre Street at 10am on Saturday 8 June.

Nomination forms are available from the office or by emailing constables@stpeterport.gg.

Completed forms must be returned by 4pm on 30 May.

Anyone attending the meeting is invited to stay on for refreshments when there will be the opportunity to meet douzeniers.