ISLANDERS in three northern parishes will be asked at a meeting next week if they support a combined Battle of Flowers entry.
The meeting – at St Martin’s Public Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday 30 November – will discuss whether a new Battle association should be formed to pool the talents of St John, St Martin and Trinity, as well as anyone else from outside those parishes who wants to get involved.
The meeting has been instigated by the Trinity Battle of Flowers Association, who, with dwindling numbers, have felt the need to widen their horizons and attract new supporters and volunteers, including those with construction skills.
Trinity Battle stalwart Charlie Ahier, who came up with the idea of a northern-parishes association, said that so far, the response had been “encouraging”.
He explained that Trinity had the advantage of permanent premises at Bouley Bay to build a float – something which the other two parishes had lacked, and also had the benefit of a float chassis which could be used by a combined association.
The parish has been an entrant in the Battle of Flowers for well over 40 years and has had success with both its senior and junior floats. Last year there was a well-supported junior entry but no senior float, due to a lack of constructors. However, the chassis was put to good use by the Battle of Flowers Association to parade a Beatles tribute band made up of local musicians.
Mr Ahier added: “The event has brought so much fun and friendship to so many people for more than 100 years. We would like to give people the opportunity to experience the challenge, community and creativity that this wonderful event provides. It binds young and old, shy and extrovert, and people of all talents.”
He described it as a “great way to make new friends, give a little back to the community, learn new skills and have a great time being part of something bigger”.
“There is a role or job for everyone within the Battle family,” he added. “You can bring existing skills or learn new ones.
“You can bring Battle experience or bring enthusiasm for a new challenge. You can make a difference and help start a new chapter in your parish’s Battle history.
“If you are interested in finding out more, if you love the idea and want to get involved, then come along to the meeting.
“Let’s get this plan off the ground together.”
Anyone wanting more information ahead of the meeting can email northernparishesbof@gmail.com or phone Charlie Ahier on 07829 855141.
