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BBC News
16-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
More than 20,000 attended Liberation Day events in Guernsey
More than 20,000 people turned out to mark the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day in St Peter Port, according to States of Guernsey data showed 350 vehicles took part in the cavalcade, which saw a tortoise named Timothy, who lived through Occupation, ride along in a cage on top of a classic Fiat 500. The States said accommodation providers reached 90% capacity over the weekend of celebrations, which also included a visit from Princess Channel Islands was the only British territory to be occupied by German forces in World War Two. Events were also held in other parts of the island, including a major celebration at L'Eree hosted by the parish of St Peter' Princess Royal visited the celebrations in the afternoon, speaking with islanders who lived through the were six aerial flypasts by aircraft including a P8 Poseidon, Hurricane and day concluded in St Peter Port with live music at North Beach, a moving drone show depicting wartime history, as well a fireworks finale over Castle were also held in other parts of the island, including a major celebration at L'Eree hosted by the parish of St Peter's. Helen Glencross, head of Heritage Services and chairwoman of the Liberation Day Oversight Board, said Liberation Day was a "truly unforgettable celebration"."It not only commemorated a defining moment in Guernsey's history, but was also an incredible display of the strength, spirit and unity of our community today," she said."It was especially meaningful to honour those who lived through the Second World War and Occupation, as well as those who experienced liberation first-hand."
BBC News
08-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Guernsey landmarks lit up for VE Day
The States of Guernsey is marking VE Day by illuminating landmark buildings as well as a ceremonial Day marks the end of World War Two in Europe after Germany's surrender on 8 May 1945. Castle Cornet, Fort Grey and Beau Sejour Leisure Centre have been lit up in red, white and blue since Tuesday, and a two-minute silence was held at 12:00 Richard Cripwell was also due to light a beacon at Castle Cornet at 21:30 to honour people lost in the war. The States said the beacon lighting would coincide with others lit across the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and UK Overseas said the displays honoured the "bravery and sacrifice of those who secured the peace and freedom enjoyed today".The beacon lighting will be broadcast live through the Guernsey Museums Facebook page. 'Remembrance and gratitude' Helen Glencross, head of Heritage Services, said lighting up the island in red, white and blue was a "powerful tribute to the courage, sacrifice and resilience"."As we mark VE Day, these colours serve as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude for all who fought for freedom and helped shape the peace we enjoy today," she said, "I hope people will tune in to watch the ceremonial beacon, which will mark the beginning of a fantastic weekend of celebrations being planned to mark Guernsey's Liberation."
