JERSEY’S Battle of Flowers bloomed back into life in its historic home of Victoria Avenue yesterday, as hundreds of spectators turned out for the Grand Day Parade.
Islanders and visitors praised the return to the Avenue – and the decision to keep the event free for a second year – as 24 flower-covered floats, entertainers, dance groups and musicians made their way along the seafront.
Spectators were able to bring their own chairs and blankets into the arena, while mandatory hydration breaks were held every 25 minutes for performers, volunteers and float leaders amid temperatures exceeding 30°C.
Among those enjoying yesterday’s atmosphere was Emma Hous, who attended with her children.
“I think it’s really exciting, being here. We’ve got a beautiful backdrop with the castle and the sea and the beach, and loads of people are here already. It’s a really lovely atmosphere,” she said.
“Battle being free again is great. We’ve got two kids, so it makes it much easier for us as a family to be able to come and enjoy it.”
Danielle Price, who was supporting the Shawn The Sheep float by Adrian and Friends, described the event as “a good opportunity for families to come together”.
She praised organisers for keeping the event free, although she questioned: “Can this continue long term?”
“I hope that as a community that we can come together to support them, as a free Battle really makes the difference for Islanders,” she added.
Sue Wallace, who was visiting from the UK with her family, said: “The atmosphere is brilliant.
“My family are on holiday here, and they have never done Battle before, so that’s mainly the reason that we’re here.
“It’s lovely, really engaging for all of the family, especially with the sun shining as well.”
Her family had handmade floral headpieces for the parade and were surprised that they did not have to pay to attend.
“We couldn’t believe it was free,” she said. “We got three free tickets, and were shocked as it would be something you would definitely have to pay for on the mainland.”
Ms Wallace called for more donation boxes to be made visible to spectators and encouraged people to contribute to help the event continue next year.
Former Battle participants Elizabeth Pallot and Lynn Lisby were also excited to experience the spectacle from the other side.
“For years we both have been part of the battle, but now to be on the other side and sitting and watching and seeing what they produced is absolutely going to be amazing,” the paid said.
“I think it’s absolutely fantastic that it is free of charge, as that means anyone can go, and rather than stopping the Battle altogether, it’s keeping it going, which is what needs to be done.
“It might be different to what we expect, but a difference might work. Islanders should give it a chance.”
Mike Fenton, from Bournemouth, had returned to Battle to reminisce and introduce his wife to the parade for the first time.
“You can see that there’s a real interest in the event, and it’s a lovely sunny day, so it’s just perfect conditions,” he said.
Angela Little, whose children were involved with the St Brelade float, said: “I think it’s just a really nice atmosphere.
“People have come out in their droves already. It’s going to get busier, and I think people are here to support Battle once again.”
She added: “I believe that everybody should experience battle, and not having enough money, especially at the moment with the cost of living, is a real barrier for some families.
“Everyone should take advantage of being able to bring the family out on a beautiful day in Jersey. And I also think employers should give people the day off.”
Marshal Sharon Rodriguez, who was also involved when Battle travelled through town last year, said: “I actually really enjoyed it going through town last year as well.
“I’m a bit mixed between the two, but I think a lot of people do like being on the Avenue, and whatever makes people happy, means I’m happy.”
Karen Buckley and friends had travelled from Scotland for their first Battle of Flowers.
“The atmosphere is wonderful,” they said. “We can’t wait for it to start as we have travelled a long way to be here today!”
Sarah Sampson and Jean Chapman, who had helped with St Clement’s float, said: “We are ready for the carnival, and looking forward to seeing all the floats.
“Loads of work goes into putting them all together for people, and we are just glad that a lot of people have turned out today. I hope it’s a success.”
The illuminated Moonlight Parade returns this evening, travelling along the seaward side of Victoria Avenue from east to west.
The arena opens at 6.30pm, with pre-parade entertainment from 7.45pm and fireworks from a barge at sea at around 10.45pm.
