An election had been due to be held in St Saviour for the role of Centenier, but no candidates came forward.
Addressing the court, St Saviour Constable Sadie Le Sueur-Rennard – who was smartly dressed and wearing a large hat, as she had just been sworn in as Constable following her re-election – said: ‘I can but apologise yet again.’
The Bailiff, Sir William Bailhache, replied: ‘Saying so wearing that hat goes down well.’
He added: ‘You appreciate that the election of Centenier is a vital part of the administration of parish administration. The court is going to order a fresh election. The election date is 12 September and swearing-in 14 September.’
Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard said: ‘I’ve got everything crossed.’
Sir William reminded Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard that if she was unable to fill the position the court may consider other options.
It is not the first time Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard has appeared before the court following a failure to fill her parish’s quota of Centeniers. In 2015 the Royal Court imposed a £5,000 fine after the parish failed to fill two vacant Centeniers’ positions.
The fine prompted Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard to take the unusual step of writing to every household in her parish, calling on them to come forward to sign up to the honorary police.