THE future of the Battle of Flowers remains uncertain as organisers continue to assess whether the event can go ahead this summer, the JEP has been told.
The Battle of Flowers Association met this week to discuss outstanding debts from last year’s event and consider the feasibility of holding the parade this year.
A working group has been set up to report back to members, the organisation said, but no final decision has been made.
The association has said an announcement will be made in due course.
Despite having its government grant almost doubled to £270,000 for last year’s celebration, it emerged recently that the 2024 Battle made a loss and that exhibitors were still waiting for payment as of last month.
Meanwhile, organisers paid an undisclosed sum to bring UK music star Sam Ryder to last year’s event in the hope that high-profile acts would boost ticket sales.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel, who has responsibility for arts, heritage and culture, confirmed to the JEP in recent weeks that he was working with the Battle of Flowers Association to “secure the long-term future of the event”.
Deputy Morel said: “The Battle holds significant cultural and community importance to Jersey and we will continue to assist efforts to secure its sustainable future.
“We’re awaiting a grant request for 2025 and stand ready to support this. The volunteers work hard to put the Battle on each year and I will be working with their association to secure the long-term future of the event.”
The 2024 celebration grant was up 80% from £150,000 in 2023.
At the time, Deputy Morel told the JEP that the increased funding was aimed at addressing the “headwinds” facing the event since the pandemic and providing organisers with the means to “reinvigorate” Battle.
The JEP put several queries to the Battle of Flowers Association chairman Russell Labey, including whether exhibitors have been paid.
The Battle of Flowers Association responded with the following statement: “The Battle of Flowers Association met last night to be updated on progress to settle all outstanding accounts and discuss the feasibility of parades in 2025.
“A working party will report back to members in the near future and an announcement will be made at that time.”
