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As 2024 draws to a close, I am pleased to have the chance to reflect on the events and milestones that have touched our community over the past twelve months.
This year has been one of connection and celebration and one in which we have some cause to feel pride and pleasure.
Earlier on this year we came together, on June 6th, to mark the 80th anniversary of D Day and honoured our veterans who joined others in the Normandy Landings. I had the pleasure of being at the unveiling of a portrait of Ernest Thorne, the last known Jersey Normandy Veteran, at the Town Hall where it is now on permanent display. This specially commissioned oil painting took three weeks to complete by local artist Jason Butler and was inspired by his recent study ‘Islanders’, a long-term project to capture the portraits of selected islanders.
Just this week, on 30th December, we commemorated the arrival of the SS Vega which in 1944 provided a vital lifeline of Red Cross parcels to the island and acted as a beacon of hope after months of terrible suffering.
As we prepare to welcome 2025, we find ourselves approaching another significant milestone: the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day. On May 9th, 1945, Jersey was freed from occupation, and that day remains one of the most defining moments in our island’s recent history. Liberation Day will always be important to islanders as we gather together to pay tribute to those who bore the brunt of war's cruelty, those who endured hardships throughout the island’s Occupation and who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of our freedom.
Next year’s commemorations will be an opportunity not only to honour the sacrifices and resilience of those who came before us but also to reflect on how far we have come as a community. The celebrations promise to be both poignant and inspiring, involving islanders of all generations and paying tribute to our shared history. Inevitably Liberation Day, which is in effect our national day, will evolve and change to better reflect our community but it will, I trust, remain an important statement not only of our history but also our identity.
I couldn’t let this opportunity pass without highlighting what I think was the great island event of the year, the visit of Their Majesties, King Charles III and Queen Camilla, to our shores on Monday 15 July. The first visit to the island of our sovereign in 19 years was a highlight for many of us and a visit which was several months in the planning and design. My team at the Bailiff’s Chambers worked closely with those at Government House and Buckingham Palace to create a visit that aligned with the wishes of Their Majesties and showcased the very best that Jersey has to offer. From the Veterans who raised the salute as they passed the Cenotaph, to the thousands of people who lined the streets on their route to and throughout St Helier, all of those who contributed to the bringing together of the Royal Visit Expo and, of course, to all of the uniformed services, and volunteers who gave up their time - thank you!
Their Majesties had a wonderful visit and were so grateful to the many people who turned out in such large numbers to make the day so memorable and enjoyable, despite the weather. They were, I know, struck and moved by the warmth of the reception that Jersey people gave them. Their presence during their tour of the Channel Islands was a historic occasion that brought our community together in shared celebration and reminded us of Jersey’s unique relationship with the Crown and our enduring ties with the monarchy. It’s an occasion I, for one, will not forget.
However, it is not only the large-scale events that define Jersey; it is the everyday acts of kindness and solidarity that truly capture the essence of island life. Whether it is neighbours supporting one another, volunteers giving their time, or the quiet dedication of those working tirelessly behind the scenes in honorary service or otherwise, Jersey's spirit of community shines brightly, something I'm fortunate enough to regularly witness in my role.
For me personally, 2025 will also mark the closure of a significant chapter as I prepare to step down as Bailiff in October. It has been an honour to serve our Island and its people in this capacity. I have had the privilege to witness firsthand the strength, kindness, and ingenuity that define Jersey. Whether at civic events, during conversations with islanders, or the States Assembly or even the courtroom, I have been continually reminded of the unique bond we share as islanders.
Looking ahead, I am confident Jersey will continue to thrive. With the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries rising to the fore, our future is bright. Just a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of joining Jersey Electricity for their Centenary celebrations - highlighting a century of innovation and commitment to powering our island – they are but one example and a testament to the determination and resourcefulness that characterises the Jersey spirit and will see Jersey meet the challenges of tomorrow.
As we conclude 2024 and begin 2025, let us carry forward the lessons we have learned this year: the value of community, the importance of resilience, and the power of hope. Whether through cultural celebrations, sporting achievements, or acts of everyday kindness, we are able to consistently show what can be accomplished when we come together.
To every islander, thank you for your contribution to making Jersey the vibrant, welcoming, and dynamic place it is. My wife, Kathryn and I wish you all a joyful festive season and a happy New Year. May 2025 bring even greater opportunities to celebrate, connect, and look forward to the future.
The Bailiff of Jersey
Sir Timothy Le Cocq
