Thousands flock east for Gorey fête

Saturday 23 August 2014

This year’s Gorey fête could have been one of the busiest yet with thousands enjoying a day out on the pier.

St Martin’s Constable Michel Le Troquer said he’s sure there were more people through the gates during the day on Thursday than in previous years and hopes the annual event which has been running for more than 60 years will have raised as much for local charities as it did last year.

Constable Le Troquer said: “Last year we were able to donate over £17,000 to local charities including Clic Sergeant, the Stroke Association, Women’s Refuge, Riding for the Disabled and we’re hopeful to at least match that again this year.

“I left at about 11 pm or 11.30 pm and I think the takings on the gate were up which is great news, but it seems there were more people during the day.”

Dozens of honorary police officers from St Martin, Grouville and Trinity helped throughout the day and evening to make sure the event ran smoothly and the Constable says there were no reports of any disorder.

Constable Le Troquer said: “The weather was great, the atmosphere was good. I’m sure there were a lot more people during the day than normal and we had a lot more entertainment during the day this year."

Plenty took to the stage this year for the Bonny baby competition, spaghetti eating and the yard of ale competitions and the crowds were also entertained by a samba troupe, young Jersey musician Jordan Burrows and the Yorkshire Band of the Royal British Legion.

Picture credit: Claire Jehan