Next month’s royal visit to be marked with public holiday

Yesterday the States confirmed the day off on Tuesday 16 July when the King and Queen visit the island for the first time since their accession to the throne last year.

The Committee for Economic Development made the decision, saying it took into account the importance of Guernsey’s constitutional relationship as a Crown Dependency. The move also maintains a position of public holidays for visits of the monarch dating back at least to the Queen’s visit in 1957.

Economic Development president Neil Inder said he was ‘extremely pleased’ to confirm the holiday.

‘It is a historic occasion and a cause for celebration. I do appreciate that this decision unavoidably comes at short notice for some, including those who will still need to staff their businesses and services. Ordinarily we would have taken time to consult with them but I’m sure they’ll appreciate the speed at which we have had to make this decision, given how soon the visit will be,’ he said.

‘Most of all, I hope the public holiday will afford as many people as possible the opportunity to come out to see Their Majesties while they are here.’

The Chamber of Commerce supported the decision to grant a public holiday for King Charles III’s first visit since his accession.

‘While we acknowledge that the short notice will impact businesses, it is the right thing to do, to allow as many people as possible to take part, and we are confident that businesses will embrace this opportunity to celebrate our relationship as a Crown Dependency,’ said executive director Alice Gill.

Islanders spoken to by the Guernsey Press while out shopping yesterday were pleased with the news.

‘I think we have a fine system in the royal family and they do a wonderful job,’ said retired teacher Helen Foxen, 72.

‘A visit by the monarch is such a rarity. We need to give everyone the chance to attend as a mark of respect. I can remember taking the children from Notre Dame to see the Queen in the 1970’s and that was such a wonderful day.’

Accountant Doug Hesketh was also supportive. He said it was a long time since the last time the island had been visited by the ruling monarch.

‘One extra Bank Holiday every 20 years doesn’t hurt,’ he said. ‘I will definitely be going down to be part of the crowds, it is the chance of a lifetime to see them here.’

Helen Hobbs, who works in an architects, said she had already been informed that her company would be giving everyone the day off. ‘I’m glad work are supporting it,’ she said.

‘I’ll will be going to see them, even if the weather is bad I am sure I will make the effort. It is good for the island and good for as many people to be involved as possible.’

Natalie Le Ray, who works in finance, said that she believed Guernsey was a very patriotic place.

‘You can see that with Liberation Day,’ she said. ‘It is great they have given everyone the opportunity to be involved.’