Debbie Medlock and Claire Honeybill have been helping out with general volunteer activity in the middle of town, making sure the event runs smoothly.
‘There’s a huge hole in the middle of this street festival,’ said committee member Andrew Pouteaux, who is organising volunteers for the set-up and take-down of gazebos, speakers and equipment needed for each act.
He worked with Mr Honeybill for many years, supporting performers and promoting the island as their platform.
‘Jack was very special. He had a really good eye for the right person and gave them a chance,’ he said.
‘I’ve lost my best pal.
‘We all have.’
Mr Honeybill dedicated himself to supporting the local arts community through the Town Carnival and its continuation into the Guernsey Street Festival.
He also organised the weekly Sunday concerts at Candie Gardens for many summers before his death last August, at the age of 81.
This is the 17th year that town has come alive with the sound of music thanks to his efforts.
A team of about eight volunteers are working every day to ensure each act is set-up and cleared quickly and seamlessly.
Mr Honeybill’s two daughters have joined in to help fill their father’s tangible void.
‘We just felt we had to this year,’ said Debbie. ‘They’re one man down.’
As one of the organisers, and later treasurer of the two annual events, Mr Honeybill helped raise more than £150,000 for arts on the island.
‘It’s really valuable for town,’ Debbie added.
‘So many people have put in the effort to make sure that it carries on as it should. It’s a lovely atmosphere when you come down. I got a lump in my throat when Punch and Judy were on because that was something we always enjoyed together.’
As well as new talent and local artists, Mr Honeybill brought famous performers to the island, including the bands 10CC and Hot Chocolate and was involved with visits by Ken Dodd.
His work, that led to him being awarded an MBE for services to the community in 2022, can still be seen around the island.
‘One of dad’s influences was getting more footfall into town,’ said Claire.
‘I’ve got a picture of him at the end of Mill Street putting up the Old Quarter sign, he was also responsible for all the bunting, the lights along the front... even down to the benches.
‘He put a bench out for us and it’s been really quite cathartic to have that. Whenever I walk past it I say “morning, Dad,” – it’s comforting to have so many reminders of him.’
The Guernsey Street Festival runs until Saturday and an awards night will be held to recognise the most impressive acts, which this year will see a new Jack Honeybill Trophy presented for a first time to the individual who went above and beyond to keep the festival running.
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