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Jubilant Jersey with James and Jane Tullett

Jubilant Jersey with James and Jane Tullett Posted by Amy at First for BridgeThursday 29th May 2025

“We had a wonderful week in Jersey in May, which coincided with the 80th anniversary celebrations of VE Day and Liberation Day.

The Westhill Country Hotel looked after us splendidly with excellent food and super-efficient staff. The hotel itself had beautifully maintained grounds, with a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs for the more adventurous to enjoy.

In addition to our bridge guests, as part of the island’s celebrations, the hotel also hosted a group involved with military re-enactment. There were a couple of jeeps parked outside the hotel, looking resplendent with their bunting. The re-enactors very kindly let us pose with their vehicles, and a couple of ladies were even whisked off in the back off the jeep – last seen heading towards St Helier!

 

Military jeeps
Military jeeps
Sitting inside the jeep
Sitting inside the jeep
Posing with the jeep
Posing with the jeep

We enjoyed a full-day, guided tour of the island, with our very knowledgeable driver explaining the history of Jersey and the impact German occupation had on the local community.

This impact was evident across Jersey with the many lookout towers and gun posts, now sitting peacefully amongst the natural beauty of the island.

In addition to the excluded excursion, several of us also visited the Jersey War Tunnels. This was a very moving and poignant experience, especially due to the 80th anniversary commemorations. The museum told the human story behind the hardships of war and the impact the occupation had. We learnt how neighbours turned against each other, trying to survive.

On Friday 9th May, we joined with the islanders in Liberation Square to watch the cavalcade of vintage vehicles and uniformed groups march in remembrance and celebration. We stood next to a 99-year-old lady who was only 19 on Liberation Day – she shared some of her memories with us.

While watching the ticker-tape parade and waving of patriotic flags, it was easy to imagine the excitement and relief of the islanders eighty years ago…”

 

Ticker-tape parade
Ticker-tape parade
Statue in Liberation Square
Statue in Liberation Square

 

James and Jane Tullett truly enjoyed their week of bridge and commemorations at the delightful Westhill Country Hotel. If you’d wish to join these dedicated hosts on one of their next adventures, you can do so here. We hope to see you soon!

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