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War-time generation can get Liberation Day hampers

Caroline RobinsonChannel Islands
States of Guernsey Four people stood on steps. On the left is a woman wearing red trousers, a black top, striped blazer and has short blonde hair. She is holding a brown paper back and box of snacks. On the right of her is a man in a light blue top and he is holding scones. To the right of him is a man wearing a light blue top, blue jeans and holding Guernsey Dairy products. To the right of him is a woman with short blond hair. She is wearing sunglasses, a red blazer, a striped top and black trousers. To the right of her is a large fake carton of Guernsey Milk. Behind them all is a brown wall. States of Guernsey
The hampers are due to include scones, orange cake, Guernsey Gâche, tea, jam and dairy products donated by Guernsey Dairy

People over the age of 80 are now able to register for a hamper to celebrate Liberation Day.

The States of Guernsey said 500 hampers would be gifted to islanders who remained in Guernsey during the occupation, or were evacuated or deported during World War Two.

The hampers would include scones, orange cake, Guernsey Gâche, tea, jam, dairy products donated by Guernsey Dairy and fruit donated by the Channel Islands Cooperative and each hamper would be accompanied by a ration card.

Senior Constable Diane Mitchell, from St Peter Port Douzaine, said: "We are thrilled to support the Guernsey hampers as we remember a key part of our island's history."

She said: "Personally, my family - like so many others on the island - were serving, evacuated or living here during those five long years, and so we can absolutely understand how much these hampers mean to the recipients, some of whom are in their late 90s.

"We look forward to meeting some of the island residents and hearing tales of the Occupation and evacuation and hope they enjoy the hampers."

The hampers were originally introduced in 2023 as part of Liberation Day's commemorative programme and a separate hamper initiative has been announced by Liberation Day organisers for people who qualify but live in residential homes or attend Age Concern groups.

The States of Guernsey said eligible residents could register by completing an online form, emailing hampers@gov.gg or calling 01481 223552 between 09:00-11.30 and 14:00-17:00 before the 30 April deadline.

'Spirit of the day'

"Liberation Day is a community effort, and initiatives like this show the power of local organisations coming together," said Deputy Andy Cameron, Vice-President and Liberation Day lead for the Committee for Education, Sport and Culture.

"St Peter Port Constables' support helps us extend the celebrations beyond island-wide events and into people's homes, ensuring the spirit of the day is shared across the island."

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