THE chairman of the Battle of Flowers has emphasised the need for “people, professionals and resources” if the annual pageant – cancelled for summer 2025 – is to return in future years.
Russell Labey spoke out in the wake of yesterday’s news, admitting that he was disappointed by the cancellation, but that “it is sensible to take the time to secure a lasting future for the event”.
He added: “The parade in 2024, with the participation of all 12 parishes, brought even more communities together in the creative endeavour of float-building and a fuller event with more entertainment proved a big hit with audiences.
“A safe and successful event of this scale must be matched with the people, professionals and resources required. The task now is to put those in place and come back stronger in 2026.”
Commenting on the situation, Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said: “The Battle of Flowers is a cherished part of Jersey’s heritage, and we want to find the right way forward for the event.
“Ministers and officers have worked closely with organisers to help them find a solution for this year.
“We understand the Battle’s deep significance for many Islanders, and we are working with the Battle to secure its long-term future.”
“The Battle of Flowers is a cherished part of Jersey’s heritage” Economic Minister Kirsten Morel
News of the cancellation emerged yesterday, with organisers saying the event would not take place as a result of financial challenges facing the Battle of Flowers Association, “stemming from the actions of the current board of directors and staff”, according to a statement.
It has been suggested the event could instead be replaced by “alternative floral-based projects”.
In a statement issued yesterday, the “strategy group” set up to try to save the event said they had engaged in “intensive discussions” with government ministers and officials.
“Despite these efforts, the financial and corporate governance challenges facing the Battle organisation, stemming from the actions of the current board of directors and staff, have proven insurmountable,” they added.
Organisers thanked the government for its support and said they had suggested “alternative floral-based projects, which will be financially supported, to help maintain interest and engagement among teams for this year”.
Despite having its government grant almost doubled to £270,000 for last year’s celebration, it emerged at the beginning of this year that the 2024 Battle had made a loss and that exhibitors were still waiting for payment.
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.
The group’s other suggestions for this year include celebrations on the traditional Battle of Flowers and Moonlight Parade dates, as well as Halloween and Christmas events.
The statement added: “These initiatives aim to keep the spirit of Battle alive and provide opportunities for exhibitors and the community to come together.”
An extraordinary meeting of exhibitors and members is due to be held on Tuesday at Grouville Parish Hall.
