Occupation VIPs invited to take part in this year’s Jersey Royal potato-growing contest

(39686640)

OCCUPATION “VIPs” are being invited to take part in this year’s Jersey Royal potato-growing competition as the Island marks 80 years since the Liberation.

The Constables’ Committee said this year would “regrettably” be the last that the Occupation VIP category was offered. The category is for those born on or before 9 May 1945, who were either a resident in Jersey during the Occupation, evacuated, deported or who served in the forces at that time.

The annual potato competition, organised by Genuine Jersey, challenges Islanders to grow the heaviest crop and the greatest number of Jersey Royals. Last year’s Occupation VIP category saw 105 participants from 11 parishes.

The winner for greatest weight and highest yield was George Le Gros from St Lawrence, with 27 tubers and a weight of 1517.9g.

Constable Mike Jackson

Constables’ Committee chairman Mike Jackson said that he hoped many Occupation VIPs would participate following what he said was the “understandable” decline in the number of entrants since the category was introduced in 2022.

Islanders who wish to take part should contact their parish by Friday to register.

Genuine Jersey potato-growing kits will be sent out in early February. Parish weigh-ins will take place early May.

– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –