End of Days

Last poem of the year, and it has been a year fraught with tragedy, wars, great storms. My final poem of the year looks back at a year ending, the days counting down to zero, and the start of a new year.

End of Days

This is the turning of the year
All remains, seconds tick away
Janus facing us, joy and fear
The dawn of a New Year day

The doors are closing, one by one
Candles flicker and are put out
Last year’s tapestry nearly spun
The bells ringing, all about

War across the world, such a lot
Of death, suffering, misery, pain
People tossed aside, left to rot
Coming storm, gales and rain

The end of days, Big Ben chimes
Pray, oh pray for happier times.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - December 1953 Part 2

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - December 1953 Part 2

17.—Judgment given in the Rosehill case, which had occupied the attention of the Royal Court for nine days, this being in favour of the Harbours and Airport Committee. Rotary Club Christmas tree officially lighted in the Royal Square. Victoria College Dramatic Society presents “ Much Ado About Nothing” at College Hall as their Christmas play.

19.—Spectacular crash on Beaumont Hill when an ambulance proceeding to the scene of an accident bursts a tyre and crashes through granite wall into a meadow 10ft. below, the driver and bearer having remarkable escapes from serious injury.

20.—Official opening of new Catholic church at Gorey.

21—Inquest held on the body of Mrs. O. M. Dumosch found dead at her home, a verdict of death from alcoholic poisoning being recorded.

25.-—Christmas Day celebrated in the traditional manner, the weather being mild and dull. An outbreak of fire occurred at La Vallette Farm, St. Lawrence, severe damage to a cottage being caused.

26. Jersey Drag Hunt hold all-day meet, this being the longest for 50 years. Inquest held on the body of Denis Crenin, an Irish farm workerwhose body was found in Dannemarche Reservoir, the inquest being adjourned sine die. Jersey Green Room Club pantomime “Humpty Dumpty ” opens at The Forum.

28.—Two further inquests held, that on the body of Mrs. S. A. Nelson, a patient at St. Saviour's Hospital, who died following a fall from bed and in which a verdict in accordance with medical evidence was returned ; and on the body of Mrs. D. O. Gem, found hanging from a tree near Sunnyside, Longueville, a verdict of suicide being recorded.

29.—Presentations made to Mr. A. Manger, retiring Markets Inspector, by stallholders.

30.—For the first time for 50 years a shipment of cattle is made to Sweden, bacon pigs being imported in exchange.

31—Presentations made to Mr. G. Le Cornu, circulation manager of “ The Evening Post," retiring after 52 years' service.

Campden Hill Square on Christmas Eve

I read about this in Reader's Digest. On Christmas Eve each year the tradition around the square is for residents to turn out their electric lights, draw back their curtains and light candles in the windows of every pane facing the street. This inspired this poem.

Campden Hill Square on Christmas Eve

Darkness falling, the twilight hour
Christmas Eve has come once more
Out go the lights, electric power
And a soft glow is lit, to adore

Draw back the curtains, all prepare
A custom old, all play their part
In every window around the square
A community of hope and heart

In every window around the square
Candles placed, and candles alight
A silent night, a flickering prayer
Of home and hearth, shine bright

Campden Hill Square on Christmas Eve
Such joy of heaven, now conceive

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - December 1953 Part 1

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - December 1953 Part 1

1.—The long running Rosehill case (Messrs. J. W. Huelin Ltd, v. The Harbours Committee) re-opens before the Royal Court. Annual dinner of Island Centeniers, an innovation being the presence of ladies. Jersey Amateur Dramatic Club presents “ The Blue Goose ” at The Playhouse. His Excellency the Lt.-Governor makes first of two official tours of the harbours.

2.—Annual two-day winter exhibition of Jersey Cage Bird Society opens at Springfield.

6.—Warmest December day since records were kept 59 years ago, the shade reading being 60.6 degrees Fahrenheit.' [15.9C]

7.-—Outbreak of fire at Messrs. A. Amy and Son Ltd, 1 Queen Street, held in check by extinguishers pending arrival of the Brigade. An unoccupied cottage at Bel Royal Vineries, St. Peter’s Valley, gutted by fire. Jersey Teachers' Association diamond jubilee celebrated with a luncheon at which the N .U.T. general secretary was a guest. “ Satellite Story,” by the local playwright Anthony Booth, presented. at Springfield Theatre.

8.—St. Helier parish assembly recommends licences and decides that the painting in the Town Hall, “La Repasseuse,” by the French painter David, be sent to London for expert attention.

10. -Ceremony at Government Office, La Collette, medals being presented by His Excellency to four recipients. Mr. Basil Henriques C.B.E., London magistrate, speaks on youth clubs at reception by the Council of the Jersey Youth Movement at the Ritz Hotel. Rosehill case concludes before the Royal Court after nine-day hearing, judgment being reserved. Jersey College for Girls’ speech day and prize-giving

11.-—St. Clement’s parish meeting, the rate remaining unaltered at 1/6 after a suggestion by the Constable for an increase to 1/9. Dr. E. P. Marett re-elected president of the Jersey Dog Club, there being opposition for the first time for many years.

12.—Before the Full Court, David Halstead (32), a native of Lancashire, sentenced to 18 months’ hard labour for fraudulently obtaining sums of money from a “ Miss X.”. Annual general meeting of the R.J.A. and HS, Mr. Frs. Le Boutillier being elected president, defeating Capt. R. J. B. Bolitho by 168 votes to 130 ; Mr. Le Boutillier announced he would resign the vice-presidency of the States Committee of Agriculture. Weight-lifting contest between Jersey and French teams staged at The Playhouse.

13.—Two 500-year old skeletons found during reconstruction work on premises at 6 Bond Street, formerly the site of the Chapelle de la Madeleine.

15.——The 600 ton mv Brockley Combe, on passage from Guernsey to this Island, strikes rock off the Minquiers during the early hours, the maroons going off about 3.20 am and the St. Helier life-boat and States tender putting to sea immediately; the lifeboat bringing the crew reached St. Helier shortly before 1 pm. and the vessel became a total loss.

16.—-Christmas concert presented by the States Evening Institute choir at Jersey College for Girls.

Lost and Found

One from the archive, from 2 December 2004. This didn't really happen. But what if?? An black comedic take on the Beeching cuts to the railway network.

Lost and Found

It was in the musty old station room
Long neglected, since long ago doom
Descended on this railway with the axe
Of Doctor Beeching, silent now, no clacks
As the train goes along the track, instead
Decay, weeds grown on line, timbers shred
And in this room, kept for lost and found
There is one lost artefact, here inbound
A faded, mouldy trunk, much labelled lid
Concealing inside, the remains were hid
Of long dead corpse, chopped all to bits
As if by a mad axeman with beserker fits
Go back to one day, last train chugging
Into station, the stationmaster chopping
Up the firewood, angry at closing tracks
Doctor Beeching alights, list of cutbacks
In his hand. Well, what would you do?
Missing, presumed dead, no one knew.

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 4

The noticeboard at St Ouen's Church gives a bare bones list of past rectors of the church, but behind each is a story. Buried in a 1916 Bulletin, in French, are details which add flesh to the bar bones of that list. Francis Le Cornu has very kindly provided me with a new translation of that article.

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 4

1651-1652 Jean Le Vavasseur dit Durell, MA

Mr. Jean Le Vavasseur, also known as Durell, M.A., Morton College, Oxon. He was the son of Jean Le Vavasseur, also known as Durell, (son of Michel) of St. Hélier, and of Susanne, his wife, daughter of Mr. Nicolas Effard, Rector of St. Saiviour. Born in 1626, he had started his studies at the University of Oxford, from which he was expelled due to the political upheavals of 1643.

He then went to France, to the Academy of Saumur, where he continued his theological studies. He had "embraced the cause of La Cloche at the time (imprisoned) at the Castle." Mr. Fauvel, Minister of St. Brelade, officiated in St. Ouen.

Upon his return to Jersey, he became—so to speak—the Chaplain of Sir George de Carteret. Sent by him on a mission to Paris in 1650, he stayed there for some time, receiving orders at the same time as Mr. Daniel Brevint, from the Bishop of Galloway, in the Chapel of the English Embassy.

He became the Rector of St. Ouen in the spring of 1651, and he sat for the first time at the States, in this capacity, on March 25, 1651. He preached in St. Ouen from April 1651, "having promised to do so because the position was vacant" since Mr. La Cloche had been imprisoned and then exiled by order of Sir George de Carteret.

Upon the arrival of the Parliamentarians at the end of October 1651, Mr. Durell took refuge, along with some other ministers, at Elizabeth Castle, near Sir George. Therefore, he could not keep his promise to serve the Church of St. Ouen for an entire year.

After the capitulation of Elizabeth Castle, he withdrew to France, performed pastoral duties in Caen in 1652, and later became the Chaplain of Armand de Caumont, Duke of La Force.

An Act of the Royal Court on April 30, 1664, informs us that Mr. Josué Bonhomme (Rector of St. John) had served the Parish of St. Ouen " when, after the invasion of the island by the Parliamentarians, it was without a pastor, and before the arrival of Mr. Pierre de la Place."

At the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, a letter from the Governor, the Earl of St. Albans, to the authorities of Jersey, gave Mr. Durell the choice between the benefices of St. Mary and St. Helier as a reward for his loyalty to the royalist cause. However, he chose neither, preferring to follow the King to England, where he had the privilege of inaugurating, in 1661, the French Church of Savoy, of which he became the first Pastor, with the title of Ordinary Chaplain to His Majesty.

It was he who translated the English Liturgy into French. He was appointed Dean of Windsor in 1677 and died there in 1683. Through his marriage, which took place on September 21, 1664, in the Temple of Quevilly, Rouen, with Marie de Dingle, one of the daughters of Jean Maximilien de Langle, a pastor in Rouen, Mr. Durel became the brother-in-law of Venerable Man Philippe Le Couteur, Dean of Jersey, who had married Geneviève de Langle two years earlier.

1653-1664 Pierre de la Place (great grandson of Pierre, above )

1653-64. Mr. Pierre de la Place. Installed on January 6, 1652-3, by Mr. Josué de la Place, his brother, "present at this Mr. Dassigny and Mr. Bonhomme, pastors, who also gave him the hand of association. Thus, he remained placed in the Parish of St. Ouen by order of Colonel James Hanes, English Governor of the Isle of Jersey at that time." (Registers of St. Ouen).

Mr. Pierre de la Place was one of the sons of Mr. Samuel de la Place, formerly Rector of St. Mary. It is noteworthy that three sons of Mr. Samuel de la Place were Rectors in Jersey at the same time: Mr. Josué at Trinity, Mr. Jean at St. Mary, and finally, Mr. Pierre at St. Ouen.

Being a Presbyterian, Mr. Pierre de la Place remained in office throughout the entire period of the Parliament. However, after the Restoration, he was required to conform to the Anglican Church. Upon his refusal, Dean Ph. Le Couteur suspended him from his duties and gave him 40 days to decide whether or not he would take the oath of allegiance to the Bishop of Winchester. He persisted in his refusal and was soon replaced as Rector of St. Ouen.

Nevertheless, he continued to reside in the parish, where he died on June 26, 1681, at the age of 53, and was buried in the cemetery of St. Ouen on the 28th of the same month. His gravestone, located in the church, bears an inscription that can still be deciphered. (See Article by Col. R. G. Warton on the Church of St. Ouen, Bulletin of 1914).

On November 5, 1656, Mr. Pierre de la Place married Susanne, in the Church of St. Ouen, daughter of Thomas Hacquoil of Portinfer, and, we believe, Jeanne Le Cornu, his wife, "with a sermon conducted by Mr. Josué de la Place, his brother" (St. Ouen).

Sue Hardy has passed on this extra snippet:

The gravestone of Rev Pierre de la Place is now outside the church, leaning against the east wall…. The inscription can still be read. It bears a small carved face, presumably a ‘likeness’ - but hard to say of whom!

Two Political Limericks

I apologise for these which are a commentary on some recent news stories! But I have not named the politician in question!

Two Political Limericks

A certain politician’s policy on trees
Would bringing in new planning fees
If you tried to cut down
He would give such a frown
However much they shook in a breeze

The same politician had a new wish
To stop fishermen going to fish
He suggested new laws
Nearly started some wars
And served up an unhappy dish

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 3

The noticeboard at St Ouen's Church gives a bare bones list of past rectors of the church, but behind each is a story. Buried in a 1916 Bulletin, in French, are details which add flesh to the bar bones of that list. Francis Le Cornu has very kindly provided me with a new translation of that article.

1599-1620 Thomas Le Sebirel

M. Thomas Le Sebirel. Son of Guillaume Le Sebirel from St. Jean, and Marguerite, his wife, daughter of Nicolas Messervy, from Mont-à-l'Abbé, in 1593 he was one of the "three children most advanced and capable of study to be maintained in good letters to be made suitable for the ministry " and the States decided that "the treasures of 10 parishes would contribute 24 ecus per year to support him in school." (States Acts, Dec. 17, 1593).

Already, on June 22, 1593, the Colloquium of Jersey had chosen him, along with Pierre de la Place, son of the Rector of St. Ouen, as "the most suitable for advancement in studies". At the extraordinary Colloquium of Nov. 3, 1598, the church of St. Ouen declared "having a particular affection for Mr. Thomas Le Sebirel, who, when called, also declared his affection for the said Church when it pleases God to call him to the Ministry."

On March 23, 1598-9, he was "approved (by the Colloquium) in his doctrine and life and sent to preach three or four times initially in the Church of St. Ouen." Finally, on May 15, 1599, Mr. Thomas Le Sebirel, "having proposed the word of God 5 or 6 times in the Church of St. Ouen, was approved by the said church, which requested him as a pastor promising to provide for his maintenance, to which he having consented, was received as a minister, and Brother Mr. Millet named to install him in his position”

Mr. Thomas Le Sebirel married shortly after in St. Brelade (in 1599) Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. Claude Parent, Rector of this parish; he died in 1620, and his widow, called to Paris by Mr. Jacques Parent, his brother (a wealthy man with no children, as Mr. Elie Brevint tells us), died there during the winter of 1649.

This Rector left a son, Thomas Le Sebirel, and a daughter, who married Philippe Remon.

1623-1645 Etienne La Cloche

1623-45. Mr. Etienne La Cloche. He was the younger son of Mr. Edouard La Cloche, of St. Helier, and Elizabeth, his wife in second marriage, daughter of Matthieu Le Gallais.

By contract dated July 21, 1619, Mr. Edo. La Cloche transferred to Thomas La Cloche, his elder brother, his share of the inheritance from their father, for 14 quarters of wheat as rent. (Registry, Book 5, page 234). In 1624, Mr. Etienne La Cloche had a lawsuit with the Vice-Dean, Mr. Thomas Olivier, who complained "that the said Mr. Etienne La Cloche had gone to England despite the prohibition made to him in the letters that the said Mr. Olivier had received from Mr. the Dean."

Mr. La Cloche, on his side, complained "of the tyranny of the Vice-Dean who had committed such an offense like a pope." (Acts of the Ecclesiastical Court). At the next session of this Court, Mr. La Cloche was sentenced to make honourable amends. This Rector was evidently a very independent spirit, impatient of any kind of restraint, and this disposition caused him several disputes with the authorities, whether civil or ecclesiastical.

In 1630, he was even suspended from his duties for a certain period. Here is a copy of the Act of the Ecclesiastical Court on this matter: May 24, 1630: 

"Mr. Etienne La Cloche being notably convicted of contempt for the visitation held on the fifth of last May in the church of St. Ouen and published the previous Sunday, refusing to submit to respond to the published articles, to recognize the reasons for his non-residence in his parish, to regularly attend the events, not to visit the sick, catechize young people every week, and other points of conformity and public duties of the ministry, pretending by his oppositions to elude all authority, seeing his contumacy openly displayed in front of his superior, despite the command given to him to respond to objections or on the information of the overseers, for these reasons, the said La Cloche having come to court in St. Helier to undergo judgment on the premises or to submit, promising to do his duty in the future, having persisted in his refractory behaviour, despite the favourable offers to drop the said contempt if he submitted to reside in his parish and reform the aforementioned deficiencies, rejecting also the salutary remonstrances of Mr. the lieutenant governor and the procureur to attend the day in court for the interest of the King's service and to win him over to his duty, after the third warning persisting, for these reasons, he was suspended from his ministry by the sentence of Mr. the Dean.

Signed D. Bandinel, Dean."

On July 18, 1631, the Ecclesiastical Court again ordered Mr. Etienne La Cloche—upon complaint of his non-residence—to comply with the points "that have been found deficient, i.e., in visiting the sick, and assisting at burials, and for this, he was ordered to personally reside in the said parish." A term of 6 weeks was given to him for this purpose, under penalty of suspension, pursuant to a command from the Bishop of Winchester.

Mr. La Cloche had no less difficulty with Sir George de Carteret, Bailiff and Lieutenant-Governor, than he had with Dean Bandinel. He did not approve of the privateering war that the Royalists were waging against the Parliamentarians; having dared to say from the pulpit that Jersey had become like a little Dunkirk, he was arrested, imprisoned at Elizabeth Castle, then later at Mont Orgueil Castle, finally sentenced to banishment, along with his wife, Mrs. Esther Planson. For more details on this period of Mr. La Cloche's life, we refer the reader to the Journal of Jean Chevalier.

Mr. Etienne La Cloche, however, returned to Jersey before 1652-3; he was buried in St. Hélier on February 6, 1652-3.

The Winter Flat Share

The colder weather brought back memories of a flat share with a Scottish friend in student digs in Exeter. Now some Scots are very generous, and this one I am still friends with from my time at Exeter (unless they read this poem!). Careful with money, is I think the word needed, and not mean! This is, after all, a bit tongue in cheek as well.

 

The Winter Flat Share

This time of year, the frozen earth:
Jack Frost dancing, so full of mirth,
A sheen of ice on storm felled twigs;
And I remember in my student digs,
Back in the seventies, long, long, ago,
In Exeter, and cold enough for snow;
Breath walking on the chilly streets,
A sleeping bag beneath my sheets;
Woolly hat on head, cold did reign;
When I awoke, inside window pane
Condensation, breath become ice;
I was so very cold, it was not nice:
My Scottish friend was use to this,
A hardy breed, saw nothing amiss,
In keeping heating off, save pence,
Scots always good with expense!
I’d have preferred the heating on,
But “Don’t be a Jessie, hoots mon”;
I blame porridge and Robbie Burns,
Highland weather, snow returns,
Braveheart and Scotland the bold,
Highland games however cold;
Arguments just a waste of breath
Almost better to freeze to death!

The Jersey Motor Cycle & Light Car Club Annual Dinner in the 1970s

From the early 1970s, Jersey Illustrated had this report on “The Jersey Motor Cycle & Light Car Club”. And afterwards, a few vintage adverts from the same magazine. A sign of the times is the Voisins one - a fur coat from real fur. You can also see some (nowadays) rather old fashioned looking heaters from Jersey Gas, and an advert for the Cortina GLX!

The Jersey Motor Cycle & Light Car Club held their annual dinner and dance at the Hotel de France when just on 200 members and guests spent a most enjoyable evening in the Empire Room.

Mr. D. Cummins, Mrs. and Mr Killmister and Mia Stone.

Mrs. Boxall, Mr. F. Boxall, Mrs. de la Cour and Mr. W. Boxall.

Miss V. Holmes, Mr. J. Pirouet, Mrs. Pirouot, Mr. A. Dix, Mrs. D. Fossey, Miss Paloma and Mr. Minkley.

Mr. Addis, Miss Todd, Miss S. Miles, Mr. P. Stansfield-Huelin, Mr. P. Wilson, Miss 8. Le Couteur, Miss A. Le Gresley and Mr. H. Allen.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Woolley, Mr. and Mrs. B. R. Wilson, Mr. R. Blake, Mrs. Jean, Miss Hopkinson, Mr. H. Ashborn, Mr. Le Fleur and Miss Amy.

Doctor Who at 60

This week, what else could the poem be about. Past and present, as far back as I can remember, a young child of around 6, and Doctor Who was there, so much so that I can even date events in my life by relation to Doctors and stories! My first girlfriend - the year of the Three Doctors. A stay in hospital for observation in case of appendicitis - Castrovalva. And the year my Annie died, perhaps appropriately, the End of Time. Sad days, happy days, always part of the tapestry of my life, entwined in my memories.

Doctor Who at 60

An adventure in Time and Space
Black and white flickering screen
Grandstand ending, and I am keen
On swirling patterns, emergent face

Daleks cry exterminate and chase
Then Cybermen, such scary scene
An adventure in Time and Space
Black and white flickering screen

Such joyful memories, just so ace
From a six year old to older teen
Doctor Who, my lifetime has seen
So many changes, each new face
An adventure in Time and Space

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - November 1953 Part 2

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - November 1953 Part 2


17.—The International Court at The Hague gives judgment in the Minquiers—Ecréhous case, the judges deciding unanimously that sovereignty over the islets belonged exclusively to the United Kingdom.

18. —Inner Wheel charter anniversary dinner, the Lieut.-Governor and the Bailiff being guests. .

19.—Annual dinner of Jersey Civil Service Association.

20.—Annual dinner of United Services Club, His Excellency becoming an honorary president. -

21.-—At today’s sitting of the Royal Court, Frederick Sleigh Roberts (38), of North Wales, described as an habitual criminal, was sentenced to 12 months’ hard labour for obtaining £222 by means of a forged cheque. Thick fog over the Island causes cancellation of all air services.

23.—Annual dinner of Old Victorians’ Association held at College Hall. Jersey Blind Society annual meeting at West Park Pavilion.

24.—His Excellency and Lady Nicholson pay official visit to the States Experimental Farm and later pay visit to a farm to see cider-making in progress.

25.—-Fourth Jersey Trades Exhibition at Springfield oflicially opened by His Excellency the Lieut-Governor.'

26. The States: Estimates for 1954 presented, these showing an estimated increase in revenue of £54,000 and an estimated. Decrease in expenditure of £57,000 ; this year’s surplus is listed as £350,000 ; before the Estimates were taken tributes were paid to H.M. Attorney-General for his part in the successful outcome of the Minquiers—Ecréhous case at The Hague and a resolution to this eflect passed unanimously; pertinent questions on the salary of the Public Health Engineer were asked and answered; milk subsidy figures were substantially reduced. St. Helier Yacht Club annual dinner.

27. Debate on the Estimates concluded : The Housing Committee’s request for £150,000 and the Public Works item of £22,000 for fluorescent lighting along Victoria Avenue were deleted and the

Estimates finally adopted; the House then sat in camera, when a new States Treasurer was appointed, he being Mr. F. N. Padgham. Jersey’s traffic problems discussed by Debating Club.

28.—Before the Royal Court, sentence on Margaret Mary Vasse, charged with embezzlement, was deferred, whilst Ernest Wm. Cattell, charged with blackmail of the former accused, pleaded not guilty and was sent for trial before the January Assizes. Thieve raid stall at Trades Exhibition, articles of men’s wear being taken. Annual dinner of Jersey Swimming Club. Talk on religious teaching in schools given by Mr. A.C. F. Beales, of London University, at The Playhouse. Annual general meeting of Women’s Section of British Legion, Lady Nicholson becoming patroness.

30 Afternoon sitting of States, the greater part being taken up with housing and civil defence; the proposal to lend money to owners of property for repairs and alterations was withdrawn for the time being and an Act authorizing the Committee to build six terraced houses on Victoria Road site adopted. Quarter finals of the World Professional Match-play Snooker Championship between Walter Donaldson and; Kingsley Kennerley opens at J.B.A. headquarters.

Ruins

A warehouse being demolished in Commercial Street which I've always found creepy inspired this poem

Ruins

The old warehouse, falling down
Decaying window frames of rust
Sidelined, forgotten part of town
Ancient bricks, decades old dust

Builders came, knock down begins
A thin creature in shadows sees
The developers, their hidden sins
And yet contractors feel unease

At night it came, and left its hole
Prison broken, released at last
Eater of flesh, stealer of soul
Hunting now for fresh repast

Those that break open a ghast's lair
Had better hide and now beware

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - November 1953 Part 1

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - November 1953 Part 1

1.—St. James's Boys’ Brigade hold’church parade in celebration of golden jubilee. a dinner being held on the Tuesday at which His Excellency and the Bailiff attended.

2.—Assizes : Raymond Critolph (22) and Peter Lorimer (28), both natives of Scotland, charged with the robbery of a. safe containing nearly £200 from Drivehire office in Broad Street, and with car “ borrowing ”; the case continued on the Tuesday, when the accused were found guilty, Critolph receiving 18 months’ hard labour and Lorrimer 15 months. Mishap to the Channel Coast at Ronez, a wire hawser fouling her propeller ; the States tug took the vessel in tow to Gorey Harbour, where the work of clearing the propeller was commensed, the vessel returning to Ronez the following day. First presentation of one-act plays at Eisteddfod.

4,—Society of Jersey Gardeners stage Chrysanthemum show at Springfield Lower Hall, many fine exhibits being on show.

7.—Elocutionary sessions of the Eisteddfod conclude at Springfield.

8.—Remembrance Sunday commemorated with the annual service at the Cenotaph.

9.—Hearing of blackmail charge opens at the Police Court when a 64 year-old man, Ernest William Cattell, is accused by Margaret Vasse (22), presented on a charge of embezzlement, with extorting sums of money from her by threats. Annual Festival of Remembrance by the British Legion held at The Forum. Dancing sessions of the Eisteddfod commence at Springfield. First shipment of live pigs to England for the Ministry of Food, 125 being shipped.

10.—Verdict of death from natural causes recorded at resumed inquest on the body of Mr. Peter Carry, the report of the official analyst proving negative.

11—Final contests of dancing sessions of Eisteddfod. His Excellency installed as honorary Rotarian at luncheon held at The Forum Café.

12.—First of the Eisteddfod festival concerts at Springfield. Jersey Dog Club hold sanction show at Mr. L. Bazire’s store.

13.—Shocking motor cycling tragedy occurs at Millbrook shortly after midnight, a young motor cyclist, Charles M. Amy (20) and his pillion passenger, Doreen Alma Marcel (19) being killed when the machine struck the kerb and crashed into a Wall. At the subsequent inquest a verdict of accidental death was returned, there being no evidence of excessive speed. Second festival concert of Eisteddfod, His Excellency the Lt.Govenor presenting the senior awards. Lady Nicholson presents Queen’s Guide Badges to two members of 1st Jersey (College) Company of Girl Guides. Jersey Debating Club motion “That an armed Germany is essential to Western defence “ carried by overwhelming majority.

14.—His Excellency takes part in practice run of Jersey life-boat Elizabeth Rippon. Final Eisteddfod concert at Springfield. Cow savaged by dog at St. Peter, the unfortunate animal having to be slaughtered. Annual dinner and prize giving of Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club.

15.—Old Boys of The Beeches and of St. Paul’s hold memorial services in honour of the fallen. New Era Cinema broken into during the afternoon, this following an entry into The Odeon on Friday night; in both cases the would-be thieves escaped.

The Fallen

For Remembrance day, a look back at war, and a glance at present wars.

The Fallen

Bombs fall, soldiers shoot, people die
This is remembrance, this is the war
Death raining down from the sky
Across the lands, upon the shore

Four horseman ride across the land
Conquest, war, famine and death
Tidal wave breaks across the sand
Laments in the wind a dying breath

This grief is a wound of burning pain
A darkening cloud across the void
A cloudburst of tears fall like rain
World at war, the world destroyed

Remember the fallen, mourn the dead
Sound the last trump, end bloodshed

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 2

The noticeboard at St Ouen's Church gives a bare bones list of past rectors of the church, but behind each is a story. Buried in a 1916 Bulletin, in French, are details which add flesh to the bar bones of that list. Francis Le Cornu has very kindly provided me with a new translation of that article.

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 2

1546-1554 Richard Payn

1546-54. Master Richard Payn. Appointed on September 2, 1546, by the Vicar-General of Coutances, on the presentation of Honorable Edward Payn. (See Vol. II of the Bulletins, p. 448). He had not yet, it seems, been consecrated to the Ministry, as he only took orders at the end of the following February. (Ibid. p. 449).

Master Richard Payn was the younger son of Richard Payn of St. Ouen (Attorney-General, 1532, Juror-Justice, 1533-44) and the brother of Edward Payn, who had secured the Benefice of St. Ouen for him. He embraced the Reformation at approximately the same time as Thomas Bertram, Rector of St. Brelade (his brother-in-law), and married before 1552. (Catel 6, f. 44-62). He married a daughter of Michel Sarre, son of Simon Sarre who had been Constable of St. John.

Mr. Richard Payn was deprived of his benefice before June 9, 1554, likely because he had aligned with the Reformation. (Vol. II of the Bulletins, p. 453). Thus deprived of his benefice, it does not seem that he abandoned hope of recovering it, as evidenced by the following act: "1554, August 20: Edward Payn and Pierre le Broc have become and remained pledges body for body and goods for goods for Master Richard Payn. That the said payees will answer to any action. As the Queen's officers intend to focus specifically on what Mr. Richard has said that he hopes to recover his benefice within two years, like others who have already recovered theirs in England" (Ex. Book 3, cited date).

However, Mr. Richard Payn was not to see this hope come true because he died at the end of the year 1556, leaving young children, including a son, Abraham Payn, and a daughter, Sata, who later married Nicolas Syvret. His widow married Geoffrey Le Sebirel. This Abraham Payn married an Englishwoman named Anne Parker, and we wonder if he might be the ancestor of several Payn families that the Jersey Armorial believes to be descended from Abraham Payn of St. Martin, who lived half a century later and, to our knowledge, did not emigrate.

1554-1559 Benois Robin

1554-59 —Benoist Robin. Appointed on June 9, 1554, by the Vicar-General of Coutances, to replace Master Richard Payn. (See Bulletins, Vol. 11, p. 453).

This clergyman was, it seems, the brother of a Pierre Robin, of St. Mary in St. Ouen, as in 1533, Pierre Robin (of St. Mary or St. Ouen) "acknowledged the blood relationship" to Benoist Robin and his "parçonuiers" (parishioners). In 1534, the same people divided the inheritances of Marguerite, daughter of Gringoire Querée, their probable mother. (Heritage 1).

Benoist Robin seems to have withdrawn from public life and died around 1581, at which time Estienne Lorge, in his wife's case, the daughter of Magdolain Robin, claimed half of his inheritances. (Ex. 12).

1565 Thomas Bertram

Circa 1565 — Mr. Thomas Bertram. The name of this minister, without a date, appears in a list of some Rectors from the 16th and early 17th centuries for the parish of St. Ouen, in the Registers of St. Mary, along with the Curé-Rectors for some other parishes. For details about Mr. Thomas Bertram, who was Rector of St. Brelade, see further on in the list of Rectors of St. Brelade.

Here is a copy of a Royal Court Act that shows once again that new religious ideas sometimes met opposition among the people: November 17, 1565: "After the confession of Gratian du Hesulme, who openly confessed before the Justice that he had disturbed the minister standing in the pulpit preaching the word of God to a Sunday congregation that had gathered together inside the church of the said parish to hear the sermon, by profigitious muttering in a loud voice, which greatly incited the people of the said parish. This was not only against the glory and honor of God and his holy commandments but also, by his wicked and perverse means, could have incited one group against the others, which could have led to great inconvenience. Therefore, to set an example to all others of similar behavior, the said Gratian du Hesulme, for his evil and perverse offense against God and the people, is condemned to be whipped today, without any shedding of blood, by the officer appointed to punish wrongdoers and execute sentences of justice on the said malefactors of this island" (Ex. 6, cited date).


1570 M. Pinçon (French Huguenot)

Circa 1570 — Mr. — Pinçon, or Pinchon, former minister of Caen, refugee to Jersey around 1568 due to religious persecution in France. The only reason we have to include him as Rector of St. Ouen is that his name appears in the list mentioned above, which also includes Mr. Bertram.

1576-1598 Pierre de la Place ( French Huguenot )

1576-1598 — Mr. Pierre de la Place. A minister who had fled to Jersey around 1568. He was a native of Angoulême, married Michelle Girard from Normandy, and was the father of five pastors, two of whom were Rectors in Jersey. It is likely that he is the one referred to in Elie Brevint's Journal, where one of the Messieurs de la Place reports "having heard that his grandfather, Mr. Pierre de la Place, sometimes had an egg but no wood to cook it," an allusion to the hardship sometimes faced by refugees. 

Stormbringer

'Terrifying' Storm Ciaran leaves cars smashed and homes damaged on Jersey. 
Storm Ciaran: Debris sent flying by 104mph wind in Jersey

A tornado and strong winds lashed the island on Wednesday night, with dozens of people evacuated from their homes.

Stormbringer

Outside, at night, a wind is rising
The storm comes, drawing near
Stay inside, officials are advising
And in its wake, the coming fear

Buildings shake, tiles torn apart
A tornado rips the roofs asunder
It has arrived, the beating heart
Zeus speaking, sound of thunder

Now the dryads cry out in pain
Branches snap, trees are falling
Pan’s lament is heard in rain
People cry as storm is calling

The storm is over, and all is ended
Now to heal the land so all is mended

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 1

The noticeboard at St Ouen's Church gives a bare bones list of past rectors of the church, but behind each is a story. Buried in a 1916 Bulletin, in French, are details which add flesh to the bar bones of that list. Francis Le Cornu has very kindly provided me with a new translation of that article.

The Rectors of St Ouen - Part 1

This parish church is dedicated to St. Ouen, the 7th century Archbishop of Rouen. There is evidence of a chantry chapel of the late 7th century on the site, probably built by monks from Normandy.

1156 Etienne

In 1156, Etienne (Stephanus) was a Priest (Presbyter) of the Church of St. Ouen, probably as the Curé-Rector. This clergyman acted as a witness during the ratification of a Charter by Richard, Bishop of Coutances, confirming that Philippe de Carteret (lord of St. Ouen) had donated the Church of St. Ouen in Jersey, etc., to the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel.


1190 Guillaume

Around 1190, Guillaume, a Priest of the Church of St. Ouen, signed as a witness to a Charter by Renaud (Reginaldus) de Carteret, in which this lord of St. Ouen granted land in the Val de la Mare to the Church of St. Brelade and the Canons serving God there.

1296 Robert de Camberwell

Robert de Cumberwell had been placed in possession of the Benefice of St. Ouen by Sir Henry de Cobham, the Guardian of the Islands, but he was unjustly evicted by the Prior of Wenlock, his Lieutenant, who entrusted the Benefice to Geoffrey de Filebeck. The following year, Robert de Cumberwell became the Curate of St. Brelade.

1297 Geoffrey de Filebek

Geoffrey de Filebeck. This clergyman resided in St. Ouen for some time, where he personally carried out the ministry, which English-origin Curés did not always do at that distant time

1348 John de Hedyndon

John de Bedyndon. Presented to the Benefice by King Edward III on March 1, 1348. (See Patent Rolls, 22 Edw. III). A royal commission dated March 4, 1348, ordered Thomas de Ferraris to pursue all those who opposed the appointment of John de Hedynon, "King's Clerk," to the Benefice of St. Ouen.

1371 William Humphrey de Boole

William Humphrey of Boole. Appointed by King Edward III.

1459 Clement Poyndestre ( died within a few months )

Clément Poyndestre, or Poingdestre. Died before December 10, 1459, as it appears during the appointment of his successor. (Patent Rolls, 38 Henry VI).

1459 Ralph Gosselin

Ralph Gosselin, Chaplain. Presented to the Cure of St. Ouen, vacant due to the death of Clément Poyndestre, by Royal Letter on December 10, 1459, addressed to the Bishop of Coutances or his Vicar-General. (Patent Rolls, 38 Henry VI).

1505-1506 Pierre Le Moigne

Pierre Le Moigne (or Le Moyna). It is likely that he is the same Pierre Le Moigne, from the parish of St. Laurence, who took Orders in Coutances in December 1496. Lord Pierre Le Moigne, Curé-Rector of St. Ouen, died in or before January 1506-7. (See Extracts from the Secretary of the Bishopric of Coutances, Vol. II of the Bulletins, p. 430).

1506-1526 Jacques de Carteret

Jacques de Carteret. Appointed on January 29, 1506-7, by the Vicar-General of Coutances, on the presentation of Sir Hugh Vaughan, Governor. (See Ibid. p. 430). This clergyman was very likely one of the sons of Philippe de Carteret, lord of St. Ouen, and Marguerite Harliston, his wife, and therefore, the brother of the Bailiff Hélier de Carteret. In 1526, he was the attorney for Thomas de Carteret (probably his brother) appointed Rector of St. Sampson in Guernsey.

On August 16, 1508, Jacques de Carteret obtained a license from the Bishop of Coutances to study for 3 years at a university. (Ibid. p. 432).

1537-1546 André Powes

André Powes. This clergyman, presumably of English origin, had been appointed Curé-Rector of St. Peter du Bois in Guernsey in 1525, and then of St. Martin de Belleuse, also in Guernsey, in May 1527, a position from which he resigned in 1545. 

We do not have the date of his appointment to St. Ouen, Jersey. He resigned as Rector of St. Ouen in 1546; this resignation was accepted by the Vicar-General of Coutances on September 2, 1546. (Vol. II of the Bulletins, p. 448). 

It is possible that he held positions as Rector in both Guernsey and Jersey, as it seems to be evident from a Royal Court Act in Jersey that he resided on our island in 1537. Here is a copy of that Act: "The action and challenge of John Nicolle, Thomas Nicolle, and others, brothers of Mathieu Nicolle, joined with the King's Attorney on account of the homicide of the said Mathieu Nicolle against Andre Powes, priest, remains null and void by virtue of the statute (sic) and act of parliament made in the 2nd year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord the King concerning the general and free pardon granted and awarded by our said sovereign lord." (Catel, Book 3, f. 154 v?).

The Chapel by the Sea

The Chapel by the Sea

The purple clouds, the sun declining
The chapel looks out across the bay
As the sun sets, the stars are shining
At the ending of this autumn day

Inside, the shadows grow, light is fading
Gabriel tells Mary drawn upon the walls
Flickering in candle light, delicate shading
The darkness softly treads as night falls

Moonlight in the water, turn of the tide
The chapel looks out on a silent night
Once chants within, when monks abide
Now just is calm and peace of candle light

A silhouette of grace in a troubled night
In darkling times, there dwells the light

Joseph Henry Bellows, Great-Great-Grandfather

When Joseph Henry Bellows was born on 15 May 1835 in Clerkenwell, Middlesex, his father, Robert, was 40 and his mother, Etty, was 29. He married Lorenza Phillipe in September 1867 in Islington, Middlesex. They had two children during their marriage. He died on 13 December 1912 in Edmonton, Middlesex, having lived a long life of 77 years.

The Census shows he was a Gold Watch and Pendant Maker.

Joseph Henry Bellows was my Great-Great-Grandfather

I've just recently discovered how he died.

Septuagenarlan's Fatal Accident
Tottenham and Edmonton Weekly Herald - Wednesday 18 December 1912

An inquest was held at Edmonton Workhouse on Friday on Joseph Henry Bellows, aged 77, a resident at the Clock and Watchmakers' Asylum, New Southgate, who died at the Infirmary from injuries. On the evening, of the 2nd inst. the deceased was knocked down by a pair -horse van it was corning out of Bowes-road near the Almshouses.

The driver, a man named Harry Cox, of Homerton, shouted out three or four times to the deceased, who it appears was somewhat deaf and weak-sighted, and also tried to avoid him, hut the deceased kept on his way. After being seen by a doctor he was conveyed to the Tottenham Hospital, where it was found that he had sustained a compound fracture of the arm, a cut on the leg, and many bruises. 

He was treated at that institution, but owing to lack of accommodation could not be admitted, and was taken to the Infirmary, where he died on the 7th inst. Death was attributed to shock from the injuries --The jury in returning a verdict of Accidental death" exonerated the driver of the horses and van from blame

Clock and Watchmakers' Asylum, New Southgate, 

This webpage has details on the Clock and Watchmakers' Asylum, New Southgate (an extract is shown below). The term "Asylum" would be best described as "Refuge".

https://ezitis.myzen.co.uk/clockandwatchmakers.html

While charities existed already for the employers of the clock and watch makers trade and for its working men, it was hoped that an institution could be established to enable both parties to meet on neutral ground. To this end, in 1853 a meeting was held in Clerkenwell, then the centre of the trade. It was presided over by the MP for Clerkenwell and Lord Mayor of London, Thomas Challis.

Following this meeting, the institution was established the same year. It would be known as the Clock and Watchmakers Asylum, a charity which would provide almshouses and pensions for aged and infirm members of the trade and their widows. Fund-raising began and, in January 1854, as he lay on this death bed, even the clockmaker to the Crown, Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy, was approached by a delegation of the trade to discuss the building of almshouses.

However, it was not until 1857 that the foundation stone was laid for the Asylum, A piece of land had been purchased for £700 in a "delightful spot" to the east of Colney Hatch & Southgate station (now New Southgate), served by the Great Northern Railway. Preparation of the site for drainage, etc. had cost an additional £100.

The buildings were of red brick with stone dressings, built in the Tudor style, at a cost of £2,500. It was planned to add two wings later but, at this stage, funds for maintenance had not yet been established.

Those eligible for admission to the Asylum were poor elderly members of the clock and watchmakers trades, regardless of religion, gender or race. No married couple was admitted unless the husband had worked in the trade for 25 years, and no widow unless her late husband had worked for 20 years.

As well as a rent-free home, the almspeople received light, coals and, when needed, medical attendance. Men received an annual stipend of £20, while widows received £13.

In 1925 the trustees applied successfully for royal patronage. In the early 1930s the Asylum was renamed The Homestead (the term 'Asylum' had fallen out of favour in the 1920s).

The almshouses were demolished in the mid 1960s. Their site was redeveloped by Barnet Council. It is now occupied by three large apartment blocks and a driveway - all still called The Homestead.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - October 1953 Part 2

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - October 1953 Part 2

19. Two road accidents, one with fatal consequence occur shortly after midnight on Saturday and within half a mile of each other- the first involving a young French motor cyclist, M. Yyes Moisan, who sustained fatal injuries when he crashed head-on into a car near Court Drive, Bel Royal; in the second instance a motorist crashed into a saloon near Victoria House, Victoria Avenue, the occupants of which, four French farm workers, received injuries of varying degrees; at the subsequent inquest held on the body of the motor cyclist a verdict of accidental death was recorded.

21. -Trafalgar Day Ball held at West Park Pavilion, His Excellency the Lt.-Governor and the Bailiff attending.

22.-Jersey Drag Hunt and Chase Club hold opening meet of the season at St. Ouen’s. Autumn field day of Victoria College C.C.F. at Les Blanches Banques.

23—His Excellency the Lt.-Governor attends El Alamein Ball at West Park Pavilion, organized by the local branch of the Royal Artillery Association.

24. Annual general meeting of Jersey Farmers’ Co-operative, a {successful year’s working being revealed

25. Eisteddfod dedication service held at St. Saviour’s Parish Church, a large congregation. Attending. A special service for sportsmen, the first of its kind for many years, held at St. Matthew’s Church, Millbrook.

26. Opening session of the Eisteddfod at Springfield Theatre, this being for pianoforte playing.

27. Special sitting of States: The Vote for the construction of an annexe for Elizabeth House was approved; a long discussion ensued on the purchase of the former Lt.-Governor’s bungalow at St. Ouen’s Bay, which was eventually agreed to ; a protest from Roman 'Catholics alleging discourteous treatment by the Public Instruction Committee was read and referred to the Committee; a letter from the Jersey Communist Party re shortage of water at States housing estates was also referred to the appropriate Committee; a petition alleging injustice against the States presented by Mr. J. R. Starck was rejected ; the Act-Report on the Troglodyte housing scheme was withdrawn, as was also the one on wage-fixing machinery in agriculture ; an Act authorizing the sale by auction of Corbiére Pavilion Hotel was adopted and various other Reports and Acts adopted or lodged.

28. Lady Gresham Nicholson opens Arts and Crafts section of :Eisteddfod in the lower hall at Springfield.

29. Trinity parish rate remains at 2/4 per qtr. despite a £1,500 deficit in. the balance sheet. Annual meeting of Jersey branch of the British Legion, His Excellency the Lt.-Governor accepting patronage.

30.—Two inquests held at the General: Hospital, the first being that on the body of Mr. C. E. Regnault, victim of a recent burning accident at St. Martin’s, a verdict in accordance with medical evidence being recorded ; and on the body of Mr. P. M. Carry and which was adjourned for the Official Analyst’s report. Dr. Alain Bombard gives account of his dramatic voyage across the Atlantic in a rubber dinghy to members of Les Amitiés Franco-Britanniques; on the Saturday he spoke to 1,500 children at The Forum and in the evening to members of the Royal Channel. Islands and St. Helier yacht clubs. Final session of vocal and instrumental section of Eisteddfod held at Springfield. Local branch of Royal Empire Society hear address given by former Governor and Commander-in- Chief of Uganda. ,

31. Large attendance at “La Sethée Jerriaise ” at Springfield, St. Saviour’s winning “Les Enfuntchis ” Cup after a lapse of four years.

Why Humanitarian Aid to Gaza must continue

Why Humanitarian Aid to Gaza must continue

Let them starve, when we asked for aid
Our dear Channel Islands would have paid
No Red Cross Vega, no help come here
The people would die, and disappear
But it was not to be, the Red Cross came
Yet his words remain, to his great shame

( From “The Bulldog Breed”)

By late summer of 1944, after the D-Day landings, the war was turning against Germany. Normandy had been liberated, which effectively cut off the Channel Islands from the German supply lines. Food was running short.

The end of summer that year saw the start of a bitterly cold, harsh winter, and lack of fuel and food meant, effectively, a famine in which many of the Channel Island’s population, already on meagre rations, would not survive. There were 62,000 civilians, 39,000 on Jersey and 23,000 on Guernsey. That was after those born in England, with their families were taken to Camps in Germany, effectively hostages on Hitler's personal command. In total, 2,300 civilians from the Channel Islanders were interned at camps at Bad Wurzach, Biberach and Laufen.

By the 8th September the Channel Islands had an estimated forty five days minimum rations. This did not include medicines and there was also a severe shortage of fuel to cook any food available.

A request was made for food to be supplied by the Red Cross. But Churchill, on 27 September 1944, wrote a note saying: "Let them starve. No fighting. They can rot at their leisure"

The rationale for this was almost certainly that it was felt that the Germans would take the food for themselves. I can hear the same rationale being given today for not supplying humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Eventually following an appeal from the Bailiffs of Jersey and Guernsey an International Red Cross ship the SS Vega made five trips to the Islands prior to the liberation in May 1945. The first arriving in Guernsey on 27 December 1944. A further visit was made in June 1945.

My mother’s family was here during the Occupation, and without that aid, they might well have perished. I would not be here today.

When I hear that some saying that Gaza should not be supplied with aid because of that being taken by Hamas, I can still hear the echo of Churchill’s infamous note.

Les Sablons’ project, Planning, and States Sovereignty

"A new walkway and large landscaped vibrant courtyard, from Broad Street through to Commercial Street, will deliver a pedestrianised connection through from the centre of town to Liberty Wharf and will include landscaping with trees and plants and artwork created by local artists who are acclaimed internationally."

"Every aspect of Les Sablons has taken careful consideration into the factors that environmental impacts have on wider social and economic outcomes, with sustainability being central to the development and its surrounding environment. This new central community and socialising space will transform this rundown area and bring new life to St Helier with a space for events and outdoor entertainment."

But it has been turned down by the Assistant Minister!

Mr Young said that it would also be wrong for a States Member to bring a proposition to the Assembly seeking to overturn the Assistant Minister’s rejection. We can’t have this application going to the States Assembly because that would take us back to the days of every decision being made by the Assembly," he said. The law empowers the Minister to be the decision-maker and, if needs be, to go against the recommendation of an inspector, as long as they give their reasons. (Bailiwick Express)


I have to say I disagree strongly with John Young on this.

The States Assembly is and always has been sovereign. 

An example of a Ministerial Decision called to account.

When Guy de Faye introduced a Ministerial decision to permit utility companies access to (and digging up) private gardens, Senator Ben Shenton quite rightly brought a proposition to rescind that decision. That kind of proposition is never taken lightly, and would only be taken (as it was by Ben Shenton) when it is clear that there are good grounds for a Ministerial decision to be robustly challenged.

In November 2007, the Minister made a Ministerial Decision, MD–T-2007-0092, to vary the policy on using the Drainage (Jersey) Law 2005 to serve Notice on third party landowners for the benefit of developers and private individuals.

The new policy would have allowed the serving of Notice to be considered if a Public gain could be demonstrated, namely, if the developer or individual was willing and able to connect additional surrounding properties to the public foul sewer network at his own expense. Under the previous policy, such requests by a developer or individual to serve Notice in this way would not have been entertained.

The Ministerial Decision prompted Senator Ben Shenton to take a Report and Proposition to the States requesting the Minister for Transport and Technical Services to rescind the decision.

The States debate on the proposition was held on 3 June 2008, and the proposition was supported by a large majority of States Members. The change in the law, which was imposed by ministerial order, was overturned in the States a majority of 40 to 5.

A revised decision said "Given the result of the debate, it is believed that it is now appropriate to re-confirm the original policy on the use of the Drainage Law on behalf of developers or private individuals. In essence, the Minister will not use his powers under the Drainage (Jersey) Law 2005 to serve notice on third party land owners for the benefit of developers or private individuals."

Against Guidelines and the Inspector

Hilary Jeune (according to John Young) would have taken advice before rejecting the plans. If she did, on planning grounds, let's see the advice anonymised, as I am completely sceptical.

"The law empowers the Minister to be the decision-maker and, if needs be, to go against the recommendation of an inspector, as long as they give their reasons.”

Hilary Jeune gave reasons, but these seem to be just opinions as the Planning Inspector found the development did NOT contravene the Planning Laws or guidelines. So to refuse comes down to personal views. I have always thought that Ministerial decisions have from the start given far too much power to a minister without redress. But that is surely why the Assembly is sovereign.

A very subjective judgement

In this case, the revised plans were within planning guidelines, they were recommended by approval by the Inspector, but Hilary Jeune said it would be "“overbearing and oppressive” and “failed to make a positive contribution to the local character and distinctiveness of the place, as it does not successfully respond to its context to ensure that the enhancement of identity, character and the creation of a durable and safe sense of place”.

I've seen the plans and the how it will look (https://www.lemasurier.co.uk/les-sablons/) as well as the notes on it, and quite frankly I cannot see we are looking at the same design. If Hilary Jeune thinks it  "oppressive" she seems to be completely lacking any aesthetic sense. If I was to take anything as "oppressive", it would be the large cubical buildings of the International Finance Centre. Is this her judgement or a whim? 

In conclusion

To suggest that if the States on one occasion, vote on a proposition to rescind her decision is not, as John Young suggests, to "open the floodgates" to every planning decision. Nonsense! The question really should be: should such an important development (and these do not occur on an everyday basis) which has the approval of an inspector, be open to reconsideration. And I think the answer has to be yes. Obviously it cannot come from within the Council of Ministers, but the Constable of St Helier, for example, could bring a proposition to that effect. 

The history, above all, is clear, that a Ministerial decision can - and has - been overturned by the States. The history also shows that this is a rare event, and not as scaremongering might say, opening floodgates to others. 

Loo with a View

This is the view from a hotel on the waterfront at Havre des Pas, which inspired this limerick. Thanks to my friend who supplied the photo!

Loo with a View

There was once a remarkable loo
Which had such a wonderful view
Where you sat on the seat
You were in for a treat
As were outsiders looking in, too

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - October 1953 Part 1

By a curious coincidence of dates, the coronation year 2023 will be 70 years after the coronation date in 1953. I thought it would be of interest to look back during this year of some of the events taking place before, during and after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Coronation Year 70 Years Ago - October 1953 Part 1

1.—Exhibition of modern photography opened at the Barreau Art Gallery by the Earl of Jersey. Annual dinner and prize-giving of Jersey Sea Fishing Club. Memories of the Opera House as a “live " theatre recalled in BBC. broadcast on the Home Service.

2.—Three-parish autumn cattle show held at St. Ouen. Second inquest this week on a patient who died at the Hospital following an operation for removal of cataract, the deceased in. this case being Mr. J. M. Huet, aged 79,’ a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence being recorded.

3.-—Before the Royal Court to-day, Leonard Wm. Boddy (22) charged with the theft of. £120 from No. 1 Silvertide, Havre des Pas, is sentenced to nine months hard labour. Jersey Central A.B.C. defeats St. Servannais in. boxing tournament at Springfield.

6.—Before the Police Court four men charged with setting fire to a lorry on the beach were discharged, the police failing to prove their case. Appeal dismissed in the case Tunbridge v. States Housing Committee heard before the Full Court today. St. John and St. Lawrence autumn cattle show held at Midlands, St. Lawrence.

7. Inquest held at the General Hospital on one-year-old child who died whilst under operation, a post mortem revealing abnormal conditions of the glands, a verdict in accordance with this being returned. Trinity and St. Martin cattle Show.

8.--Autumn sitting of Assise d’Heritage held at the Royal Court, the customary guard of halberdiers being mounted. Verdict in accordance with medical evidence recorded at inquest held on the body of Mrs. Ellen Whiffen, who died following a. fall at her home. First of three-night presentations by the British and Foreign Bible Society. “150 Not Out,” staged at Springfield. St. Brelade’s cattle show held near Red Houses, Les Quennevais. Minquiers—Ecréhous case concludes at The Hague, judgment being reserved.

9.—Grouville parish assembly fixes rate at 2/-, as last year. St. Clement's cattle show held in field near Samarés Manor.

12.—-Local auxiliary of British and Foreign Bible Society give luncheon to visiting missioners.

13,—Grouville and St. Saviour combined cattle show held at Fairview Farm; St Saviour. Mr. Ph. Ahier, B.Sc., gives talk on Jersey crosses to Round Tablers.

14 —Autumnn session of Les Amitiés Franco-Britanniques opens at the Ritz Hotel with talk by M. Georges Rottier, economist and author.

15.—The new Lieut-Governor, Admiral Sir Gresham Nicholson, K.B.E., O.B.., D.S.O., D.S.C., arrives on the destroyer H.M.S. Finisterre, and later in a dignified and colourful ceremony in the Royal Court takes oath of office. Gillie Potter, stage and radio celebrity, opens Trinity Church Bazaar. R.J.A. and HS. fruit and flower show held at Springfield, the- W.I. home and garden exhibition being held in the annexe. Gorey Regatta annual dinner held at Castle Green Hotel.

16. —Jersey Debating Club opens winter session with discussion on “Are Residents Sacrificed to Tourism.”

17.—The Jersey Society of Artists 1953 exhibition opens at the Museum Gallery.

Ethical Standards and the States

Moz Scott's proposition on ethic standards for States Members has some good ideas, but is vitiated by its lack of substance. This has laid it open to criticism from PPC. I consider two areas she proposes and also how some part of these should overlap with other organisations and also the civil service, and where some parts of training should be mandatory.

Professional Standards

Moz suggests "that the professional standards detailed within the Code of Conduct for elected Members should be revised to better align with best ethical standards and practice in professional organisations outside the States Assembly and civil service."

PPC responded:

"The Committee agrees that the Code of Conduct for elected Members needs to be revised. The Committee has discussed this with the Commissioner for Standards who will be sending a letter to the Committee with her suggestions for change in due course.... . The Commissioner would like to see the professional standards aligned to codes of conduct within other political systems. Given this view, the Committee would be concerned if it were stipulated that standards would need to align with random professional organisations"

Mandatory Training

Moz suggests "that provision should be made within Standing Orders to make it mandatory for all elected States Members to attend training relating to the Code of Conduct and its interpretation"

PPC responded: "The Committee has recently discussed whether the Code of Conduct should include a mechanism whereby some training packages are mandatory. This followed a number of comments made by the Commissioner for Standards in her recent report highlighting the importance of training for members: “Public life as an elected member requires professionalism and high standards; in this respect, training (both formal and on-thejob) is essential”. The Committee decided not to pursue this and agreed to explore alternative routes in the first instance. In that regard, the Committee has requested the States Greffe to record and publish attendance levels on all training sessions which the Committee hopes will encourage greater turnout by members. Therefore, the Committee does not support this part of the proposition."

Giving Substance to the Idea 

I can think of three areas where training should be mandatory, and that should be included in the standards for States Members. In each case, I cite a public record of a case which illustrates where a States member could have done with training. This is very different from the vagaries of Moz Sdcott's proposition (which I think should be rejected in its current form) but highlights areas for improvement.

Data protection: This should be mandatory to ensure that States members do not breach Data protection. At least three States members have done so in the past, one in response to issues regarding housing where they either deliberately or inadvertently gave information which would identify a particular tenant. Training can help prevent breaches.

See:

https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2004/01/29/data-protection-housing-may-have-to-pay-out/

Anti-Money laundering. Given that States members are, by virtue of their position as members of the States, counted as PEPs (Politically exposed persons), they should all have basic training in Anti-Money Laundering, and how to ensure they should act in relation to anything they suspect is money laundering.

See:

https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2015/03/09/money-laundering-20-major-fraud-cases-active-in-jersey-police-reveal/

And certainly as mandatory for any States members in contact with young or vulnerable people, a basic training course in Safeguarding would well be advisable. Not illegal but certainly seen by many as inappropriate behaviour by a States member demonstrates a need for that.

See 

https://jerseyeveningpost.com/voices/2021/04/28/your-children-arent-immune-from-online-grooming-trust-me/

Now it may be that States members do attend such training as that cited as a matter of course, and the PPC note that "the Committee has requested the States Greffe to record and publish attendance levels on all training sessions" is a good start, but for those involved in handling personal data, and having oversight of extensive funds, and (especially in education) connections with young people, I would say these are professional industry wide standards for large organisations which should be mandatory, and are not just those of "random professional organisations".