The Channel Islands’ plans to mark the 75th anniversary of liberation from occupation are being scaled back to protect public health.
A programme of events had been planned in both islands for for 9 May. However, the States of Guernsey says it will be ‘radically re-shaping’ its plans, while Jersey has also cancelled events including the Liberation Day Ceremony, which is traditionally held in Liberation Square.
The decisions have been made according to public health guidance in both islands, which has advised against large public gatherings.
‘The advice from Government is clear and it is in the best interests of the people of Jersey to cancel Liberation 75 events,’ said the Bailiff of Jersey, Timothy Le Cocq.
‘It is sad and disappointing for such a milestone anniversary however, public health must be, and is, the priority.’
In Guernsey, organisers will develop a programme of events that will recognise the importance of the occasion, while protecting public health.
Both islands have cancelled the planned visit in May of Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
The Lt-Governor, His Excellency, Vice-Admiral Sir Ian Corder said, ’We are naturally disappointed that the planned visit of Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester has been cancelled. However, we recognise that it was a necessity to do so given the current global pandemic that we must all combat together as a community. While it is too soon to know exactly how we will commemorate the 75th anniversary of our island’s Liberation, we will probably seek a greater focus on marking the day at home and making full use of the broadcast media in particular.’
Specsavers has confirmed that it has had to cancel both the free Tea Dance it puts on for the war-time generation, as well as the two Hangar Balls scheduled to take place in Guernsey on 7 and 9 May.
Tickets for the ball will be automatically refunded the full amount including the booking fee in due course. For more information visit ticketsource.co.uk or email [email protected].
