THE annual Battle of Jersey walk is to take place on Saturday 6 January to mark the “bravery and sacrifice” of soldiers who marched to St Helier to defend the Island from a French invasion.
Starting in a different parish each year, Islanders walk to the Royal Square to commemorate the 1781 battle and the heroics of Major Francis Peirson and his men.
The Parish of St Helier is then expecting to hold a parade, marching from the Town Hall.
The walk and parade end in the Royal Square, where they meet the Jersey Scout Band and the 1781 Jersey Militia.
The event culminates in a re-enactment of the famous painting of the battle – The Death of Major Peirson, by John Singleton Copley.
Speeches, prayers and a talk will be followed by drinks served at the nearby Peirson pub.
The walk is to be led by Jersey historian Ian Ronayne, a specialist in the Island’s military history. He said: “The Battle of Jersey is an event in our Island’s history of parallel importance to Liberation Day.
“Together, British soldiers and Jersey militiamen stood firm and defeated an invasion force come to claim Jersey for France.
“But for their bravery and sacrifice the Island we live in today would surely be a totally different place.
“So I’m delighted to be leading a commemorative walk again this year and telling the enthralling story of what happened on that historic day and important role played by the Jersey Militia.”
St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft added: “The Battle of Jersey is an important part of the Island’s history, and it is important that we continue to commemorate the event every year to ensure that the history continues to live on through future generations of Islanders.”
Islanders who want to take part in the walk should gather at Trinity Parish Hall at 8.15am on Saturday 6 January for an 8.30am start. The St Helier parade leaves the Town Hall at 11.45am.
