When the Saints come flying in...

Wednesday 09 August 2023

Jersey and Guernsey will be promoted as visitors destinations to supporters of a leading club in the English Football League as the result of a new partnership agreement with a local airline.

Blue Islands has become a regional partner for Southampton FC, nicknamed the Saints, for the 2023/24 season, which began this month, and is looking to boost the numbers of passengers travelling between England's south coast and the Channel Islands.

Chief Executive Rob Veron said: “We are excited to announce our collaboration with Southampton FC, to showcase the Channel Islands to its fans and those visiting St Mary’s.

“Southampton is an integral part of our network, with up to seven flights a day from Southampton to the islands.

“The Channel Islands are a world away but are close to home – this is a great opportunity to highlight the many reasons to visit Jersey and Guernsey to the club’s followers over the next season.”

Pictured: Saints footballers Joe Aribo, Nathan Tella and Jan Bednarek pictured at Southampton Airport as the Blue islands partnership was announced. (Southampton FC)

The agreement will see Blue Islands hold competitions for customers in Jersey and Guernsey, as well as supporting Southampton FC's soccer schools in the Channel Islands.

The club, which suffered relegation from the FA Premier League to the Championship in May, has strong links with both islands. Matt Le Tissier of Guernsey played for the Saints for 16 years, while Jerseyman Graeme Le Saux spent two seasons with the club towards the end of a lengthy professional career.