Battle of Jersey anniversary commemorative walk

Islanders are invited to gather at Grouville Church on Saturday 10th January 2026 to take part in the annual Battle of Jersey commemorative walk. Led by historian Ian Ronayne, the walk follows in the footsteps of the Jersey Militia marching to defend the Island against invading French forces on 6 January 1781. Participants should meet there at 8.15 am for an 8.30 departure.

A regular fixture in the local calendar since started by former army officer and historian Frank Falle, the Battle of Jersey walk recalls important events taking place 245 years ago to save Jersey from enemy forces. After French troops led by the Baron de Rullecourt secretly landed and seized St Helier, British forces and local troops rallied and bravely advanced to defeat the invaders and secure Jersey for the King.

This year’s walk, which is supported by the Société Jersiaise, follows in the footsteps of the Jersey Militia who mustered in the eastern parishes on that morning. After visiting La Rocque Harbour to recall historic events at that location, the walkers will march on to St Helier and the Royal Square where a commemorative ceremony organised by the Constable of St Helier is taking place.

Ian Ronayne said: “I’m pleased to be leading the Battle of Jersey walk for another year. The events of 6 January 1781 are very worthy of our attention and commemoration—but for the actions of brave British and Jersey soldiers, we could now be part of another country and speaking a different language. The story of that day is enthralling, the characters involved fascinating, and the outcome instrumental in making the Island what it is today.”

The walk, which is free to take part, is around 6.5 miles and mostly on roads and pavements, with one hill to climb and descend and some broken ground to cross.

About The Battle of Jersey

In the early morning of 6th January 1781 a French invasion force led by Baron Philippe de Rullecourt landed at La Rocque and marched on St Helier. Capturing the Island’s Lieutenant Governor, they forced him to sign a surrender document, seemingly achieving De Rullecourt’s goal of capturing Jersey for France.

However, the young commander of local British forces, Major Francis Peirson, refused to accept the situation and mustered troops in opposition. These included the Jersey Militia, formed from local men expected to defend their Island in times of war. Advancing into St Helier, the local force attacked and defeated the French in the Royal Square, with Peirson tragically being killed in the fighting, along with De Rullecourt.

For many years, Jersey marked the battle’s anniversary with ‘Peirson Day’, recalling the part played by the young officer in saving Jersey from French rule. In recent years, the commemorative Battle of Jersey Walk and Royal Square ceremony has revived the spirit of the occasion.

About Ian Ronayne

Ian is a local historian, author and writer who specialises in the Island’s military history. A member of the Jersey Tour Guides Association, he regularly leads local walks and gives public talks on related subjects. Ian is also a Société Jersiaise Vice President and Jersey Heritage trustee.