Ernie’s (im)mature cheese went on sale just before Christmas with all profits going to Ernie’s Angels, a charity set up in memory of a local cheese-loving boy who lost his battle with leukaemia last year.
Approximately 3,000 packs of Ernie’s cheese were produced and sold in a number of retail outlets across Guernsey. It was embraced by the local community and the whole batch sold out by the end of February.
Guernsey Dairy donated 100% of its operating margin to Ernie’s Angels and staff willingly volunteered to give up their free time to pack and label the cheese in order to maximise the return, with a total of £2,577.42 being raised.
General Manager of the Guernsey Dairy, Andrew Tabel, said, “Ernie was a frequent visitor to the Dairy and had always shown an inquisitive enthusiasm in everything we did and for life in general. His knowledge and understanding of the island’s dairy industry was remarkable considering his tender years. It was apparent he had a fondness for Guernsey cheese, helping make a batch during one of his many visits.”
It was a considerable undertaking and would not have materialised had it not been for the support and engagement of the community – in particular, Dairy Management Board, staff, Ernie’s family, retail outlets, delivery drivers and, of course, everyone who bought the cheese.
“Ernie was a charming and inspirational young man, always polite and respectful, he endeared and humoured us in equal measure. The Dairy was immensely proud to have been involved in helping launch the local charity that bears his name and by doing so ensure Ernie’s legacy continues to resonate across the wider community,” concluded Mr Tabel.
Ernie’s Angels was founded in memory of Ernie Backlund-Leale, who passed away, aged 11, in September last year following a courageous battle with leukaemia. The charity will offer financial help to local families with terminally ill children to support with costs including respite care and funerals.
