Bikers to carry torch for Armistice beacon

Bikers to carry torch for Armistice beacon

Escorted by three police motorcyclists, a relay of 14 bikers – with pillion riders – will take it in turns to carry a torch to light lanterns at each of the parish war memorials en route to the Island’s Beacon of Light.

Gary Whelan, chairman of the RBL Riders Branch, says it will be a solemn and respectful tribute to the men from each parish who fought and died in the First World War. He urged other bikers not to join in, as that would lead to the relay ride being cancelled – but he hopes Islanders will gather at parish cenotaphs, or come out to see the riders pass by if they live along the route.

‘The Bailiff’s Office approached us and asked if we could transport the flame, which is being lit at the Cenotaph in the Parade during the Remembrance Sunday service on 11 November, to light the beacon in the evening,’ he said.

‘It will leave the Royal Square at 4 pm, stopping first at the Town Hall and then the other parishes to arrive at Les Landes at 6.45 pm to light the beacon at 7 pm.

‘Any biker who wants to show their respects on the day can join the Remembrance Sunday bike ride which leaves Le Braye car park in St Ouen’s Bay at 8.30 am for a ride to the People’s Park.

‘Then we will all ride together past the Cenotaph in the Parade after the commemorations. Everyone is welcome to join that ride but not the one in the evening. That has been specially organised for a few riders only as a solemn and respectful act of remembrance involving the parishes.’

Jersey’s Beacon of Light is one of 1,000 being lit at 7 pm on Armistice Day as part of Battle’s Over – A Nation’s Tribute. Countries across the world that also fought in the Great War will be marking the day 100 years ago when the guns fell silent.

Islanders are invited to gather at the race course at Les Landes from 5.30 pm on Sunday 11 November, where there will be live music and refreshments available from 6 pm. Parking is free.

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