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FARMING, FOOD & FISHERIES • EQUESTRIAN & SPORT • HERITAGE & ARTS • GARDENS & NATURE RURAL - Jersey Country Life
Summer 2017 www.ruraljersey.co.uk
ENCHANTED GARDENS Personal worlds of Jersey gardeners
Issue 18 - Jersey’s rural, cultural and community magazine
BUZZING FOR 100 YEARS The Jersey Bee Keepers Association celebrates its centenary
A YEAR IN BRITTANY Retirement away from Jersey for Philip Gray www.ruraljersey.co.uk
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Welcome Isn’t it funny, how a bee makes honey? Buzz, buzz, buzz, I wonder why he does. IT is not often that I have the opportunity to quote (or misquote) Winnie The Pooh in this ‘Welcome’ page, but the thought occurred to me as I read the articles that comprise the major theme of this Summer issue of RURAL magazine. We have, indeed, a swarm of information about bees and honey-making in this edition. The reason for this is to celebrate the centenary of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association. Although the association is 100 years old, the making of honey, of course, goes back in Jersey - and, of course, elsewhere - to very early times indeed. In 1692 we have Jean Poingdestre writing: ‘In earlier centuries the people generally applied themselves to the keeping of bees, which thrived there exceedingly and made a most excellent sort of honey than is seen ordinarily.’ And John Stead’s ‘A Picture of Jersey’ (1809) states: ‘There were formerly a great many Apiaries in the Island, before the Introduction of Cyder. The number of bees has decreased from the introduction of other sorts of beverage, perhaps less wholesome. The honey that is introduced here is of very superior quality to any other in Europe.’ He could be writing today: Jersey honey is still of very superior quality, as attested by the number of prizes and commendations gained by members of the JBKA when they show their honey in the UK. Long may that remain the case, and long may there be, in Jersey as in Grantchester, an affirmative answer to the question: ‘Is there honey still for tea?’ From the subject of bees to that of gardens is only a short flight both for bees and for wingéd thought. Three unusual gardens form the contents of our second theme: An edible ‘forest garden’, a herb garden, a wildflower meadow…. Very good for both bees and humans to visit during what we hope will be the long, warm days of summer. Enjoy the season and enjoy RURAL’s seasonal issue.
DISTRIBUTION We will provide free delivery to any address which would like to receive a minimum of five copies. The magazine remains free of charge to those who simply want one copy posted to their home address, but we ask for a £12.50 subscription to cover the cost of postage and packing the five issues. HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SENDING A SUBSCRIPTION TO RURAL AS A PRESENT TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY OVERSEAS? Telephone us on 865334. Cheques can be sent to RURAL magazine, La Cohue, La Grande Route de St Jean, St John, Jersey JE34FN
VISIT US AT www.ruraljersey.co.uk PUBLISHER Crosby Media and Publishing Ltd La Cohue, St John, JE3 4FN
DESIGN & PRODUCTION Sarah le Marquand sarah@thecore.je
EDITOR Alasdair Crosby editorial@ruraljersey.co.uk 01534 865334 or 07797 773880
PHOTOGRAPHY Gary Grimshaw info@photoreportage.co.uk 07797 739426
ADVERTISING Siobhan East siobhaneast@hotmail.com 07797 726811
RURAL magazine can be collected, free of charge, from any number of places around the Island. If you are unable to find a copy, please contact us and we will ensure that you receive a copy directly.
www.ruraljersey.co.uk
ENCHANTED GARDENS Personal worlds of Jersey gardeners
BUZZING FOR 100 YEARS The Jersey Bee Keepers Association celebrates its centenary
A YEAR IN BRITTANY Retirement away from Jersey for Philip Gray
Front cover image: Dr Tim du Feu, president of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association. See pages 16 - 26. Photography by Gary Grimshaw.
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16 Contents
19 - 20
WHY AND HOW TO BECOME A JERSEY BEEKEEPER So you want to be a bee keeper? Gary Leatt offers guidance on the first steps to take
7
‘THE ISSUE’
8-9
THE JERSEY SALAMAGUNDI A mixed salad of a selection of Jersey life and events
22 - 23
BEE KEEPING FOR BEGINNERS Tracy Mourant experiences the strange and magical world of beekeeping
10 - 11
A YEAR IN BRITTANY Philip Gray, recently retired as a Victoria College master, starts a new life in France
24 - 25
PROTECT OUR POLLINATORS… ...so as to protect Homo Sapiens. By the past president of the JBKA, Bob Hogge
26
HOW DO BEE KEEPERS CELEBRATE REACHING 100 YEARS? Details of this year’s JBKA centenary events, by Dr Tim du Feu
12 & 14 A TALE OF TWO HERDS AND TWO RICHARDS Organic change in the dairy industry, by Peter Body
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42
28 - 29 SPECIAL THEME: BEES AND BEE KEEPING IN JERSEY To mark the Centenary of The Jersey Bee Keepers Association
ART, INSPIRED BY NATURE The art of Anna Le Moine Gray
30
NATURE HAS ALL THE ANSWERS Natural health, by Diana Mossop
16
KEEP BUZZING!
32
17 - 18
HAS JERSEY ALWAYS HAD A SPECIAL BUZZ? By the JBKA president, Dr Tim du Feu
FIT FOR PREDATORY PURPOSE Owls make their presence known, says Mike Stentiford
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54
58
64
34 - 35
SOBER PLEASURES A ‘RURAL’ consumer guide to…water. By Kieranne Grimshaw
58 - 60
THE ENCHANTED GARDEN Judith Queree shared her personal gardening world with Alasdair Crosby
36 - 38
THE FORGOTTEN FOREST The Arboretum at Val de la Mare – Jersey’s best-kept secret. By Catherine Garner
62 - 63
A DIFFERENT SORT OF HERB GARDEN It’s not just plants that you at Graeme Le Marquand’s herb garden
40 - 41
THE LONG, LONG TRAIL, A-WINDING Endurance Riding – not just for tiny tots on tiny trots. By Ruth Le Cocq
64 - 65
IF ALL ELSE FAILS, DRINK SEAWATER The new £6m upgrade of the Desalination Plant
66
A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
68 - 69
SPIRIT OF UNITY, SPIRIT OF FREEDOM Rhona Richards on this year’s recent Liberation Music Festival
70 - 71
A PLACE OF ART AND CULTURE Our regular report from CCA Galleries International by its director, Sasha Gibb
72
A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO NATURE Mike Stentiford on the work of the Jersey Volunteers
74 - 76
SMALL IS THE NEW BIG How best to encourage small primary food producers, by David Warr
82
WALKING BACK TO MINDFULNESS Mike Stentiford has the last word
42 - 44
LOYAL FRIENDS – AND COLANDERS Catherine Garner joins the Jersey Citroen 2CV Club on their monthly outing
46
THEATRE OF WAR Tug of War at Ernie Le Feuvre’s
48 - 49
THE AFRICAN QUEEN Jersey cows’ humanitarian success in Rwanda, by Philippa Evans-Bevan
50
TIME FOR SOLUTIONS The theme of this year’s ‘Forum for Food’ conference in Brussels, addressed by former UN Secretary General Khoffi Annan. By Philippa Evans-Bevan
52 - 53
FROM EMPTY SHELL TO FAMILY HOME The transformation of a derelict Victorian farmhouse into a modern family home, by Ruth Le Cocq
54 - 55
SO NEAR, NOT SO FAR AT ALL France is only 30 minutes from Jersey by RIB. What could be better? By Kieranne Grimshaw
SPECIAL THEME: ENCHANTED GARDENS Personal worlds of Jersey gardeners 56 - 57
THE LAZY MAN’S WAY OF GARDENING Geoff Pirouet’s ‘Forest Garden’. By Alasdair Crosby
CONTRIBUTORS PETER BODY PHILIPPA EVANS-BEVAN TIM DU FEU CATHERINE GARNER SASHA GIBB PHILIP GRAY KIERANNE GRIMSHAW BOB HOGGE GARY LEATT
RUTH LE COCQ GRAEME LE MARQUAND ANNA LE MOINE GRAY DIANA MOSSOP TRACY MOURANT RHONA RICHARDS MIKE STENTIFORD DAVID WARR
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The Issue THE observant reader may have noticed one or two articles about bees and bee keeping in this edition of RURAL. We make no apology for that – it is, after all, the centenary of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association and such an important anniversary ought to be celebrated. Despite being an ancient craft, bee keeping needs a modern approach to keep pace with the modern world. Bees buzzing around our gardens and hedgerows are a quintessential part of the sights and sounds of summer and Jersey honey has an excellent reputation as a tasty, high quality product. Members of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association who exhibit their honey in the UK can expect to receive acknowledgment and awards for it. Why? Because much of the English honey produced is gleaned from regions where the surrounding countryside consists of little more than enormous fields of monoculture crops, such as oil seed rape or alfalfa. Although a perfectly acceptable honey can be obtained from such crops, it is undeniably bland in taste when compared to that which comes from an Island rich in plant diversity. Jersey bees collect their pollen and nectar from flower-rich hedgerows -hawthorn and bramble, sloes, blackthorn and larger trees such as sycamore and sweet chestnut, as well as from the many fine gardens where they find a wealth of flowering plants. Hence it contains a wide selection of nectars. The tale of Jersey’s bee colonies themselves has not been so positive. An outbreak of American Foul Brood Disease some eight years ago devastated the Island’s bee population and in subsequent years adverse weather hampered recovery. This resulted in poor breeding seasons and a struggle to rebuild stocks. On the wider world stage, ‘Colony Collapse Disorder’ has been described in almost apocalyptic terms. There has been no ‘Colony Collapse Disorder’ in Jersey. The name covers a multitude of ills and no one cause for it has yet been discovered. One of them seems to relate to climate change: poor summers greatly affect a bee’s ability to reproduce and to have time to bring in sufficient food to remain healthy during the winter. Then there is the varroa mite, a nasty little critter that became a problem when, with the unwitting help of mankind, it transferred from the Asiatic honey bee to the European honey bee. There is little doubt that varroa has played a significant part in CCD cases.
In Jersey, varroa mites were first discovered in 1990, since when honey bee populations - and hence honey production - has declined. The pre varroa era is now looked upon almost as a golden age of healthy bees and large honey harvests. Industrial bee-keeping methods in the USA, such as the transportation of colonies over vast distances of perhaps 4,000 miles to pollinate large areas of monoculture crops growing in weed killer treated, sterile soils has undoubtedly had a huge part to play in the spread of CCD. Bees, like humans, are susceptible to stress and working under such conditions leads to the breakdown of their normal activities. Chemicals such as the Neonicotinoids (used commercially against aphids) can filter into plant pollen, affecting the bee’s nervous system and its ability to navigate back to its hive. So there is a long list of contributory factors, such as varroa, the incidence of new and different viruses, poor summers and winters, garden insecticides for domestic use and a lack of experienced bee-keepers… all these things contribute, if as yet in an unquantified way, to the decline in bee populations. The latest aggravation for bees and their keepers in Jersey is the arrival in the Island of ‘the Asian hornet’ – bigger, stronger and more lethal to honeybees than the European variety. However, their arrival is still too recent for their impact to be evaluated. The honey bee is really like a canary in a coalmine: if something is wrong with the environment, they are the ones who let us know, by their very absence. So that is the on-going challenge: to ensure that the stocks of honey bees on the Island are healthy and by training and education to ensure that more people become proficient in bee keeping so that Jersey can in the future remain, as it has been in the past, an Island flowing with milk and honey. As far as training and education is concerned, the JBKA seem to have this well in hand with their new ‘bee field’. And finally - very finally, one might say - there is the much quoted comment made by Albert Einstein: ‘If the bee disappeared from the face of the earth, then man would have four years of life left.’ Could there be any greater issue, actually, to engage our attention?
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THE JERSEY SALMAGUNDI - A mixed salad of life and events in Jersey
OPEN GARDEN - Villa Devereux, St Brelade, by kind permission of Mrs. Helen Hickman, on Sunday 9 July in aid of St John Ambulance VILLA DEVEREUX is a unique house built in the 1980s, tucked away off Route Orange and approached down a winding driveway. Many of the original trees were retained to offer some protection from the prevailing south-westerly winds and to give a sense of maturity to the grounds. They are mostly pines, Mediterranean oak and Macrocarpa.
Geoffrey Thornton, and a cider press. In front of the house there is a fish pond guarded by two heron sculptures. All contribute to a beautiful and peaceful garden with has a great feeling of space and light. Teas will be served on the patio.
Evidence of the interest in art and design of both Mrs. Hickman's her late husband, Ron, is evident, with sculptures dotted throughout the garden. There is a huge variety of texture, colour and structure from the many specie trees and shrubs including a beautiful blue cedar which can be seen on the approach to the house. The large bed to the left of the drive is planted with many shrubs. Look out for the stark, bleached bare branches of a tree sculpture, 'Charity'. This was created by Mr Hickman from one of the 70-odd trees lost in the storm of 1987 and reaches upwards out of the dense cover of conifers, ferns and heathers. The large expanse of undulating lawn stretches south providing stunning views across to Ouaisne and La Cotte, interrupted only by granite boulders, the sculpture ‘The Embrace’ by
ROYAL PROGRESS - The sales and marketing director of the Jersey Royal Company, WILLIAM CHURCH, describes this year’s potato growing season as of early June
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WE have just completed a good May, fuelled by some fine weather with enough sunshine, warmth and rain to keep the crops growing well, and just as importantly, some prolonged spells of sunny weather across the UK to help drive sales.
Sales are expected to keep a strong showing as we enter June, and this will be followed by the usual staggered exits by retailers at the end of the month as more UK potatoes become available.
All retailers have been promoting Jersey Royals in May, giving them prominent positions in store, and there has been a lot of very positive PR activity to help support sales across various mediums. In addition, one of the mainland supermarkets ran a strong TV campaign for the whole month that showed off Jersey at its best on a sunny day and with Mont Orgueil castle as the backdrop. This featured not only on prime time TV, but also in cinemas and other print publications and was a huge boost to the industry and helped raise the profile of Jersey Royals to all customers.
The wholesale market has played its part too, and supply through the various panellists across the country has been stronger than in recent years.
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The seed crop is growing well and is on target to be harvested from the end of June. All in all, the mood around the countryside is generally positive at the moment, and farmers are hopeful of a good second half to their season.
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THE JERSEY SALMAGUNDI
HORSES ON COURSES OVER 12 Jersey Riding Club (JRC) members and their horses met recently to launch the first of nine routes established to celebrate the joys of riding while staying safe.
Julie Settle
The JRC has spent over a year conversing with other equestrian clubs as well as the Department of the Environment following the publication of the Countryside Access Strategy for Jersey 2016. As a result, the riding routes will be mapped and made available to the Club’s members.
Julie Settle, a member of the JRC’s bridle path committee, said the equestrian community had joined forces to create some safe riding routes around the Island, using public bridle paths, green lanes and tracks. ‘Equestrianism in Jersey is becoming more challenging as the roads become increasingly busy,’ said Julie. ‘With more horses than ever being owned in Jersey, the equestrian community has come together to ensure that horse riders enjoy their riding as safely as possible.’ The launch on 31 May coincided with The British Horse Society’s Ride Out month, which celebrates the joys of riding. ‘The Access and Bridle Path Initiative was set up by The British Horse Society in the UK and works hard to promote and secure the provision, protection and preservation of rights of way and access for ridden and driven horses over highways, byways, bridleways, and other land,’ explained Julie. Last year the Environment Department’s Countryside Access Strategy for Jersey suggested trialing multi-user routes for cyclists, walkers and horse riders. Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce welcomed the launch of the JRC’s maps and rides. ‘It’s great that the Department’s Access Strategy is being so well supported by users and providers of access to Jersey’s countryside,’ he said. Julie added: ‘Caring for your horse or pony, enjoying the exercise that its upkeep needs, riding out with friends, pushing your riding ability and enjoying the amazing Jersey views, whether a green lane in St Mary, bridle paths or woodland trails, are some of the many enjoyable aspects of riding.’
branch of the British Show Jumping Association to work more closely together. ‘This is a critical time,’ she said, ‘memberships and the number of competitors are down but the overheads are going up. We want to keep the local equestrian scene vibrant and relevant and we are hoping the results of this survey will help us plan for the future.’ Last year the two clubs pooled their resources to run some joint events, including a derby trial, which was well attended and a great success. ‘We collaborated with the BSJA and held our first event in our field incorporating a mix of rustic, ‘faultable’ fences with both clubs providing fences and personnel to help run the competition. We then transferred this concept to the BSJA showground to take advantage of their all-weather surface in the New Year when ground conditions were not suitable in our field,’ said Sari. She added the JRC membership currently stands at about 90 members compared with over 100 a few years ago. ‘Not all of those members ride competitively and we also have some non-riding members who support our activities. We had about 40 members taking part at our recent annual show.’ Sari explained that membership numbers did not remain static but tended to increase throughout the year, particularly when escorted evening rides began in the summer. ‘We started running the rides a few years ago and they have been very popular, particularly with people who do not want to compete. They provide the opportunity for people to meet up with each other informally while, at the same time, introducing their horses to the experience of riding out in company.’ However, Sari also explained that the level of organisation to host even one event – and including training sessions, the club ran 58 activities last year – is huge. ‘We have to adhere to the British Riding Club's health and safety standards, which includes providing paramedics for certain events, and the cost of that support – particularly when we would still have to pay for their services even if we have to cancel the event because of bad weather – is a factor we have to take into account.’ Results from the Equestrian Club Survey are currently being analysed to discover the best way forward. ‘We are hoping people have responded as honestly and realistically as possible so we can provide the events and activities that appeal to them,’ said Sari.
TWO of Jersey’s equestrian clubs have joined forces to urge all those Islanders involved with horses and ponies to fill out a survey aimed at finding out what events and activities to host in the future. Jersey Riding Club chairman Sari Cuming explained the increasing costs of running events, coupled with a fall in membership numbers, had encouraged JRC and the Jersey
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A YEAR IN BRITTANY We challenge Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’ with our own contributor, PHILIP GRAY, who last year retired as head of PT at Victoria College for a new life with his wife, Anna, in the Wild West of Brittany WHAT have you done?!’ These were the words from our eldest son when he heard that we had bought a tumble down farmhouse somewhere off the map in far western Brittany. Thanks for the support. I admit that these words do come to haunt me on occasion. I have come to Act Three of my life’s cycle. Act One was childhood in the countryside south of Winchester. Act Two was a professional and family life for nearly 40 years in Jersey. Act Three is retirement. For various reasons we had decided to move on. Jersey had been super for us but we now felt that we needed something completely different. Our friends all presumed that Brittany was the choice of my wife, Anna, who is a staunch Breton. But that was far from the truth. Anna is very much an Anglophile and her Celtic roots meant that there was a real temptation to look at Cornwall, Ireland, Wales and Scotland. We visited all four and I admit that I rather childishly exaggerated the negative points that we came across: camping sites and traffic in Cornwall, 10 -
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poor supermarkets and restaurants in Ireland, rain and more rain in Wales, midges and cold in Scotland, all to get my own way and move to Brittany. I did not know Brittany at all before I met Anna, but the numerous family holidays we had there soon made me fall in love with the place: the wide open fields, rural outlook and patisseries. Anna very reluctantly gradually came round to the idea, but with the proviso that we would only do our house search in Cap Eden, a peninsula almost three times the size of Jersey but with the population of St Saviour. Deal done. We then sadly had to sell our beautiful family home in Jersey before I could hand in my resignation letter. Both of our sons had flown the nest and we were able to cross a burning bridge to continue our house hunting. We had started our search in a semi-serious manner a year beforehand without any real success. We had our tick-box of factors for which we were looking in our dream property: a long driveway, no near neighbours, a reasonable amount of land, direct walking access to the sea, all things that we could not hope to have in Jersey.
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We had seen a property very early in our search that ticked almost all our boxes, but there were issues with it that caused us to put it on the back burner and continue our search. Cap Eden is a poor area that has seen better days, perhaps a century ago when sardine production was at its height. Pig farming is also struggling and many locals have moved elsewhere in search of work. The population has been steadily declining there over the past 50 years. House prices are very different to Jersey with next to nothing above £500,000. We drove by or viewed close to 50 properties and only two were in that range. When we returned for our really serious search, we headed back to the original farmhouse to find that it was already under offer. Two couples had signed a ‘compromis’. I then discovered that in France selling a house is much in favour of the buyers; once you have signed a ’compromis’ you have a minimum two months’ grace to get your finances organised and no outsiders can interfere in the proceedings during that time, i.e gazumping is impossible.
Oh dear. We approached the notaire and the vendors to say that we would be interested if the sale fell through and went off to look at other properties. Two months later luck came our way as the buyers then stated that they would be dropping out: they could not stand the sound of cows. So we were back in the ball game and were able to sign a ‘compromis’ ourselves. What had we done? Bought a tumble down farmhouse that had not been lived in for 30 years, covered in ivy and brambles, full of junk and rubbish; one part had a pine tree collapsed on the roof, another had so much water through the roof that the first floor had completely collapsed; three parts were designated as agricultural and there was no guarantee that we could live in them; the large hangar was collapsing and the roof was of a concrete/asbestos mix that would cost a fortune to remove. What had we done? Well, we had bought an amazing property with around 15 acres of wild land, 200 yards from the north coast path. As they say: ’location, location.’
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Left to Right: Richard and Charlie Le Boutillier, Richard Smith, Bryony Le Boutillier
A TALE OF TWO HERDS - AND TWO RICHARDS Organic change comes quietly to a long-established herd of Jerseys. Report by PETER BODY AFTER nearly a century, change is taking place at Laugée Farm, Mont à l’Abbé, but not so anyone would really notice. Farm owner Richard Smith, one of the Island’s most traditional of dairy farmers, is going organic, with a little help from his friends. Richard, who is one of only two local dairy farmers that still tether their cows, is in the midst of a 20-month conversion programme to meet the exacting organic standards of the Soil Association. It is only because his old-style farming methods are already so environmentally friendly that it will not take the usual two years to change to producing approved organic milk. Organic standards consist of both welfare requirements and chemical use restrictions; however, the welfare of our Jersey herds tends to be of a very high standard anyway, which reduces the impact of conversion. The first litres of Laugée organic milk will arrive at the Jersey Dairy in October 2018 and thus help to secure a reliable Island supply of the milk. 12 -
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Currently only one farm produces organic milk for the dairy, and although it is still very much a niche product, the dairy is keen to meet the market demand estimated currently at about 75,000 litres. Richard’s herd of about 12 cows was therefore roughly the right size and has the potential to meet any likely growth in demand. This is where Richard’s friends and neighbours, the Le Boutillier family, became involved. With both son and daughter now working on their own farm alongside their parents Richard and Nicki, they are all about the continuation of the farming tradition. The Le Boutilliers themselves, though they run a more conventional non-organic farm with 200 cows, have a fondness for organic principles. Daughter Bryony, who runs their farm shop, told us ‘We would always avoid using pesticides and spray wherever possible on our Royals and because we grow only a small crop for ‘The Potato Shack’, that is possible for us. We’ve also found we have no need to
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use any sprays on our strawberries which we grow for fruit and jam at The Shack as well.’ Son Charlie, who manages the Woodlands herd, explained their larger herd size and close proximity means they are able to lend a hand to keep costs down for Richard. ‘We can, for instance, make his bedding straw along with our own, meaning Richard doesn’t have to maintain expensive machinery just for his 12 cow herd.’ ‘It was all about not leaving a gap in the market,’ Richard Le Boutillier said. ‘If the dairy can’t supply organic milk when people want it, then we risk the possibility of needing to import, damaging the iconic Jersey cow and its special place in this island.’ Laugée Farm was almost tailor-made to fill the gap. Richard Smith may follow traditional methods, but he still produces extremely clean, high-quality milk and has looked after cows since his father and grandfather’s day, carrying on a family involvement with the Jersey cow that now spans 127 years. There was not a lot he had to change with his farming methods to meet Soil Association standards.
14 -
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‘He's already pro-organic without necessarily meaning to be so,’ Bryony said. ‘Organic is what he believes in deep down,’ Richard has long since sold his home-grown vegetables from an honesty box at his farm gate and always insists that they taste far better without fertiliser or sprays. There is also a selfish reason why the Le Boutilliers want to help Richard with the project: they want to continue to have a stable and well-managed dairy farm next door in a mainly farming area of the Island. ‘It’s always good to have another farmer as your neighbour,’ Richard Le Boutillier said. ‘Laugée is a small farm that needs to continue to be well-run if it is to survive, going organic will mean it becomes an essential part of the dairy industry despite its small size.’ The only physical, but unobtrusive evidence, that Laugée Farm is going organic, will be a new 150 square metre shed that the Le Boutilliers will help him build, providing loose housing for his cows and replacing the need to tether them. Apart from that, Richard Smith's contented cows will continue to graze on lush Island grass and produce clean Jersey milk as the herd has done for four generations of the Smith family.
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KEEP BUZZING THIS year, the Jersey Bee Keepers Association (JBKA) celebrates its centenary. Humans and bees have impacted on one another since the dawn of time. Prehistoric humans stole honey from wild bees and learnt how to make mead before they learnt how to plant seeds or keep animals. It marked the passage from nature to culture. Jersey has always been celebrated for the quality of its honey. Today, the JBKA keeps the ancient craft of beekeeping and honey making alive and well; the Association is flourishing and the latest developments in the Association are exciting and laudable – read on for details! We offer many congratulations to the JBKA on its centenary and also every best wish for the future. We hope that despite the ravages of varroa, Asian hornets and other pests and pestilences, the Association will continue to keep alive a valuable tradition from the distant past for another century at the very least. For anyone inspired by these articles to join the Association, please contact the secretary, Pauline Kilduff: info@jbka.org.je or Tel: 01534 744808.
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HAS JERSEY ALWAYS HAD A SPECIAL BUZZ? The Jersey Bee Keepers Association is celebrating its centenary this year. By its president, Dr TIM DU FEU ONE hundred years of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association! This is quite an event, but how did it all start and how have our ‘busy bees’ contributed to Island life? Like good Jersey folk, bee keeping in the Island has been around a long time. The earliest record is back in the 16th Century when many of the cider apple orchards included bee hives to ensure a good pollination. The hives used were simple straw baskets, quite different from the wooden hives we use today. As well as eating the honey, the farmers also fermented it to make an alcoholic mead. This was a common drink that was called vitoué in Jèrriais. For those who could not wait, another mead called baûtchet was made that had to be drunk soon after fermentation. Just as it is now, Jersey honey was also very much prized. Bee keepers take great pride in showing their honey and the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Show had a class for honey as early as 1844. The first prize attracted 3/6d which must have been a hefty sum at the time. Little has changed and the Association’s annual honey show still continues today. The keeping of bees in Jersey was ‘revolutionised’ around 1890 with the arrival of wooden and framed hives. For beekeepers, this was equivalent to the arrival of the motor car! Not much has changed in their design and they are similar to those we see today. Unlike honey bees, their keepers are usually independent beings. So what prompted folk to come together to form an Association? It all started amidst the terrors of the First World War when nine bee keepers met on 3 October 1917. It might seem a strange time to come together, but as a group they were hoping to make a stronger case to apply for rationed sugar to feed their bees in the winter. Sadly, it was not to be and their request was turned down. One might wonder just how much sugar would have actually got to the bees in this time of shortage. By 1919, membership of the Association had increased to 47 with an observation hive and small shop for selling candy and equipment being set up at the Jersey Ladies' College. It was during the German Occupation that bee keeping became a truly valued asset for the Island. Again, one can quite understand that with the shortages of sugar and sweets, honey was greatly sort after. Thus many Islanders took up bee keeping with most equipment being made locally. Unfortunately, bees and honey also attracted a great deal of stealing. This was mainly from the German Forces and
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escaped prisoners. A total of 150 colonies were reported as being destroyed by thieves and beekeepers had to take every possible measure to prevent loss by camouflaging hives and keeping hives on roofs or even in their bedrooms! As the Occupation went on, food and medical supplies dwindled until honey was the only medicinal item that the hospital had to give patients. Indeed, honey was only available to the public via a prescription. The German forces also used honey to dress wounds of soldiers, as it speeded up the healing process and reduced scarring.
Meetings of the Association quickly resumed after the war. In 1946, the Association had its first post-Occupation AGM and by 1948 regular meeting were being held and the honey show was revived. By 1951, membership had grown to 104, a similar number to today. In 1987 a census of beehives was carried out showing 607 hives in the island. Today there are around 500 hives and the Association is as strong as it ever was. Members still continue to strive to be better bee keepers and the new Centenary bee field and visiting speakers will greatly add to this.
All in all, the Association supplied over four tons of honey to the medical authorities during the Occupation and after Liberation each bee keeper received a letter of thanks from the Food Control Committee for their help in those desperate times.
Coming together to talk about problems, the various diseases and threats as well our successes, makes us all better bee keepers and importantly it can only benefit our buzzing friends that we passionately care for. With this I am confident that Jersey will continue to buzz in the next 100 years.
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WHY AND HOW TO BECOME A JERSEY BEEKEEPER So you want to keep bees? GARY LEATT, treasurer of the Jersey Beekeepers Association, explains the first steps to take as a novice keeper WHY become a beekeeper? For some it’s wanting to be able to produce their own honey, for many it’s about saving the environment, being green. For me, I just like bees. Around 15 years ago, the Jersey Beekeepers Association (‘JBKA’) advertised their first evening class for anyone interested in learning about beekeepers. I’d tried to learn Italian at night school, completed inshore navigating (no boat), so beekeeping was the obvious next choice. Fifteen years later, I’m the treasurer of the JBKA. I’d never intended to actually get bees when I signed up for the night school course, but when you meet and talk to beekeepers about their hobby, their enthusiasm can be infectious. It was their enthusiasm and knowledge that quickly made me decide that at some point I was going to keep my own bees. I think the course then was similar to the one we run now covering the basics: a year in the life of a beekeeper, biology and equipment. There is a lot to take in, but it’s all very interactive and I’m glad to say that despite all the trials and tribulations we’ve had over the past few years with, Varroa, American Foulbrood and now Asian Hornets, the current tutors running the night school still have plenty of enthusiasm for our craft. One thing to learn quickly when you become part of the beekeeping fraternity is that like many other hobbies, it has its own terminology with which you become familiar. Within weeks, when your friends ask you about your beekeeping, you will be confusing them no end explaining about ‘supers’, the benefits of the ‘National’ hive compared with the ‘WBC’ and the merits of using ‘Hoffman’ or ‘Manley’ frames in said supers. You will also quickly find out that although beekeepers are a friendly and helpful bunch, you will more often or not get a different answer to the same question from everyone you ask! The basics tend to be the same, but how you deal with certain things comes with experience and can be dependent on where you are and what equipment you have. One of the most helpful things I did after attending the night school, and before spending any money, was to go out with Bob and Jill Tompkins, who are very experienced beekeepers to see what they did and whether I was comfortable with 40,000 bees.(Over the years I have taken a number of people interested in seeing inside a hive and not everyone has enjoyed seeing that many bees in one place).
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You won’t make a lot money. There are good years where you may make a little, and there are bad years when you spend more on sugar feeding the ladies. It takes a lot longer than you think. Especially if you want to do it properly and responsibly. There’s a lot of kit, some of which isn’t cheap. You may need a shed! It’s addictive. When you’re actually beekeeping and at the hives, it’s a great way to relax and switch off from any other influences/worries. Join the JBKA, do the night school course, help a beekeeper and meet some different people who will become friends for years.
It was a great experience apart from one unfortunate time when I got stung in the middle of the forehead and Jill used a new ‘venom extractor’, which left a lovely bright red two pence sized mark for two days! It didn’t put me off though and I carried on with them until I got my own bees. I was fortunate enough to be given a swarm of bees to start with from Ian Steven, another very experienced beekeeper who had been one of the instructors on the night school. Times have changed a bit since then; the number of colonies in the Island has fallen and it’s not always as easy to get your first bees. The JBKA are working on this, but I can’t emphasis enough that if you really do want to get into beekeeping, the best way is to go to the night school and then help an experienced beekeeper for a while. There are many who are happy to take ‘newbees’ along as its always better to have a helper.
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Go green g n this th is SSummer Sum mmer
It is possi possible ble to have a colourful rful and productive garden without w using a large amount of mains water water. aterr.. Simple thingss such as watering your ga garden arden early in the morning or o in the evening when w the weather is cooler will avoid water evaporating g weaken in the midday y sun. And, did you know that th hat over-watering overr-watering -watering can weak ken your lawn by y encouraging roots to seek k the surface? From watering maintenance, F rom waterin ng your lawn and plants to garden g you’ll find loads of handy tips, advice and more on our website:
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BEEKEEPING FOR BEGINNERS TRACY MOURANT recounts how she entered a strange and magical world once she started keeping bees A NOVICE beekeeper once told me he felt like Harry Potter. I can understand why. Once you take up beekeeping, you find yourself in a strange new world. It has roots in ancient folklore, its own special terminology, odd attire and curious equipment. The bees themselves are fantastic beasts with seemingly magic powers to transform materials and to shape-shift. They have bizarre lifestyles and deadly enemies that are so gruesome they only seem possible in fiction. Just like Harry Potter’s world. At the same time, beekeeping is a very modern-day concern. Bees or the lack of them, are right at the heart of our anxiety about the environment and how to protect it. The rise of urban beekeeping is a response to this and there are hives on the roof of Harrods and the London Stock Exchange. Hollywood star Morgan Freeman, among others, keeps bees in polystyrene hives. In fact, it’s very nearly trendy. This mix of traditional, quirky and challenging makes people curious and attracts a steady flow of beginners.
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If you want to take up beekeeping, the place to start is with the five-week introductory course run by the Jersey Beekeepers’ Association in early Spring. They will explain the basics and start to demystify the terminology. You’ll learn the difference between a brood box and a super, where to site your first apiary and how to spot varroa. (A nasty little red crab parasite that spreads diseases among its host bees.) You’ll also hear about the Asian Hornet, the insect equivalent of a Tyrannosaurus Rex that arrived in Jersey last year and is poised to feast mercilessly on our bovine little bees. And that brings me to a rather surprising point about beekeeping – how attached you become to 20,000 little insects in a box. The first winter I had bees, I wanted to keep the rain off them and when it snowed I joked about knitting them each a tiny little scarf to keep warm. Of course, I learnt there is no need because bees are quite capable of getting themselves through winter and huddle like penguins. When I have lost bee colonies – to drunken gangs of wasps or to some mystery decline – it has been painful and incredibly sad. Be prepared to love them like pets.
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To keep them safe, you need many spells up your sleeve. I was lucky enough to learn some tricks from two experienced beekeepers, Alain and Gregor, whom I met after my five-week course. They let me be their apprentice because they had learnt from the fabled Maurice Gautier, a master beekeeper who was venerable and wise like Dumbledore (which by the way, is an old English word for ‘bumblebee’). He asked them to pass on the craft to others. With my two teachers I saw my first ‘walking in’ of a swarm. I learnt how to spot problems and hammer together the frames and pieces of a beehive. I never expected beekeeping would improve my carpentry skills. Or how much I would enjoy that. And smokers, don’t get me started on smokers. I still have trouble keeping mine lit. The first year with Gregor and Alain they gave me a pot of honey that tasted like caramel and I went from being a non-believer to a honey consumer after one spoonful. I beekept with them every Friday and after the second year they finally agreed I was ready to take home one of their precious swarms that we collected from high in a tree. I drove it home in the back of my Honda Jazz in a wicker skep – sturdy beekeeping basket – wrapped in a sheet. One of beekeeping’s many small adventures.
As Dumbledore Gautier said, no one can really predict how bees will behave. We are just the custodians; they are the ones who know what they’re doing. This is how bees cast their spell.... QUESTIONS I GET ASKED MOST: Do you get stung a lot? Only if I unzip my bee suit too soon or take my gloves off before I’ve walked away from the hive. How much does it cost? You need quite a lot of equipment but there are beginner beekeeping kits available online for about £200. How do I get bees? By collecting a swarm or getting to know a friendly beekeeper. Stay in touch with the JBKA. How much time does it take up? Less than you think. In late Spring/early summer you need to inspect the bees once a week. There’s usually something to clean or make outside of that too.
If something unexpected happens, which it frequently does, I turn to my beekeeping books. There are thousands on the shelves, from highly technical scientific volumes to my favourite – the Haynes Manual for bees (just like the mechanic’s guide I used to have for my old Mini and just as easy to follow). New beekeepers should also just talk. It’s surprising how long you can spend chatting to another beekeeper about techniques, timings and technicalities. Everyone else will have wandered off but you’ll be learning something new and probably very niche. Also, the JBKA has regular get-togethers, which are a valuable source of knowledge for beginners and people like me who still don’t feel 100% certain what the bees are up to. I am, even after four years, still a beginner. One thing I have learnt that that the more you get in to beekeeping, the more captivating it becomes. It is a riddle that constantly changes and constantly needs new answers.
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PROTECT OUR POLLINATORS! Without the pollinators – such as bees and other insects – many of the world’s most important plants and animals would cease to exist. One of those would probably be Homo sapiens. By the past president of the Jersey Beekeepers Association, BOB HOGGE WE are finally waking up to the plight of the World’s pollinators. As scientific papers and reports warn us, there is a serious decline in all the main animal pollinators. Of these, the insects are the most important and with them the decline is most serious. It is the insects who supply the world with most of its pollination services and thereby supply us with the next generation of plants. Without this regeneration many of the world’s most important plants and animals would cease to exist, including humankind, as we rely on insect pollinators to provide us with fruits and vegetables that we need to give us the vitamins and other essentials that we need to function. To put it bluntly, this decline has been our fault, both individually and collectively, not out of spite, but by simply improving our lot and evolving from a species that was at the whim of chance, to a species that has loaded the dice so much in its own favour that other species just cannot compete. Pollinators are vital links in the chain of life and as anyone who has ever had to rely on a chain knows, it only takes one link to break and all is lost. So the reports from around the world that pollinators are in decline should give us pause for thought. As a beekeeper, I am aware of the decline as it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain honeybee stocks. The decline has been observable not just in the bees, even in some of our once common butterflies. Small tortoiseshell butterflies are now not seen in large numbers and even the once ubiquitous white butterflies are in retreat.
One drawback about bees is their stings. This means dressing up in suits and veils when you work with them, which is fine for beekeepers, but if we are to invite the general public to watch beekeepers at work, alternative solutions have to be used. So the plan is to construct a public viewing apiary where beekeepers can demonstrate their craft to an audience protected from the bees in a glass fronted viewing gallery. A few years ago, when I was JBKA president, I put forward a scheme called Protect Our Pollinators (POP) to try and raise awareness of the pollinating insects. Most of the plan was for people to use their gardens as places of refuge, offering food, water and a place to breed. But I also wanted landowners to set aside areas to grow wild for a few years, as well as to allow pollinators’ numbers to build up and become reservoirs to supply other areas. With this field, I now have the opportunity to put those ideas into practice. I am giving the Bee Field to the Jersey Beekeepers’ Association in the hope that they can make it their base of operations. So that, in time, the Bee Field will be a valuable resource, not just for beekeepers, but for the Island's schools and colleges and all those who want to learn how to protect our pollinators’ and, in effect, help to protect ourselves.
It is my concern, coupled with the need to improve the training facilities of the Jersey Beekeepers’ Association, that were in the forefront of my mind when the means and opportunity to buy a four-vergée field close to St Helier presented itself. In the last 50 years, this field has changed from a valley with a spring-fed stream and watercress beds to a level site full of broken glass, concrete, clay, scrap metal, and greenhouse waste, including a vast amount of plastic string buried just below the surface. It makes any form of cultivation both difficult and time consuming - it was a dump (even if it were a green dump). My first task was to establish an apiary on the site, primarily designed to promote the art, craft and science of beekeeping. This was important as one of the JBKA’s constitutional objectives is the education of beekeepers and the general public in all things honeybee related.
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HOW DO BEE KEEPERS CELEBRATE REACHING 100 YEARS? President of the Jersey Bee Keepers Association (JBKA) TIM DU FEU explains MEMBERS and the council of the JBKA wanted to mark their centenary by firstly looking back to remember and thanking previous members, to plan events for current members and, importantly, to look forward and lay the ground for the new bee keepers of our future. The celebratory events include:
✿ A Harvest Festival Church Service, to give thanks to bees and pollinators at St Helier Methodist Centre. To mark the centenary the JBKA also became a member of Genuine Jersey and is now a registered charity.
✿ A tea party at the Radisson Hotel for the ‘older’ members. We are delighted that the president of the British Bee Keepers Association will join us.
As a keepsake for the centenary, all members received a special commemorative mug (for that important cup of tea) and a pack of wild flower seeds.
✿ UK Speakers on all things bees and pollinators. This is important so that members continue to update their knowledge on the latest techniques. The various talks have been kindly sponsored by the Howard Davis Farm Trust and are open to the public.
Extra special for the Centenary and something that will secure our future, is the launching of the JBKA Bee Field. This will provide a venue for members to come together. However, it is an Island asset and the message is ‘Education for all, about pollinators’. It is our vision that the field can be developed into something of which we can all be very proud. The field has been very generously donated to the JBKA by past president Bob Hogge in memory of his late wife. It is something for which we are very thankful and which will benefit us all (including those future bee keepers).
✿ A new JBKA Prize for the best pollinator garden in the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society Ransoms All Island Garden Completion (this could be the perfect excuse for the odd weed). ✿ A honey jar label competition for primary schools. The winning label will proudly bedeck the centenary honey at our annual honey show.
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✿ A special centenary honey beer….
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SH ER AT ON K I TCHENS Exclusive to Pastella
Monday – Saturday 8.30am - 5.00pm
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BEEHIVES IN ST OUEN By Anna Le Moine Gray
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A Sunday afternoon in June, I visited Judith Queree's beautiful garden in St Ouen. It was an Open Studio weekend and my friend Gaby Radiguet was showing her new cyanotypes in Judith's 'roulotte' (shepherd's hut). There were several beehives in a field, behind the hens. It was full of spring flowers and looked golden and beautiful; I drew them immediately and put the scene on canvas as soon as I was back in my studio. It took some time to complete; only two of the original three beehives are left and I even decided to cut the painting up! It became a beehive diptych.
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NATURE HAS ALL THE ANSWERS A series on natural health, by our columnist, Diana Mossop
SEASONAL CARE: SUMMER Allergies and Intolerances THERE is a difference between an allergy and intolerance. Allergies are extremely serious and pose hazardous health risks of anaphylactic shock. The antigen should be avoided at all times. Some of the most common allergies are bee and wasp sting; nut allergy, particularly peanuts; fish; shellfish; penicillin and these allergies are life-long. Exposure to these antigens may pose serious risks to health and life and should be avoided at all costs. These types of allergy are so serious as to be life threatening and if you or your children suffer then generally an Epipen is prescribed which should be carried at all times. Anaphylactic shock occurs when the body goes into red alert because of the sudden presence of a toxin or allergen. This could be an insect sting, a vaccination or a chemical such as penicillin, or an allergen such as nut allergy. The reaction is very serious and includes swelling of the mouth especially if the allergen has been swallowed, an inability to breath. The reaction may even induce a heart attack or stroke. Unfortunately once one has had an anaphylactic shock one becomes much more likely to suffer again when exposed to the toxin again and this then becomes an allergy. Intolerances are far more common and can strike at any time as a result of lowered immunity, stress, emotional trauma or just to some new type of additive or substance in a group of food that is not tolerated. The most common symptoms of intolerances are hyper activity, temper, becoming hot and bothered, rash and urticaria, sinusitis, eczema flare ups. Vomiting, tummy pains and superficial skin reactions are also very common. Some people suffer with hidden allergies 30 -
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and the reaction may occur a day or even two later and this is harder to identify. Obviously pollen is a big problem as many people do suffer with seasonal hay fever as a result of intolerance to pollen. The most common foods that fall into this category are the acid foods such as nuts, fish and shell fish, gluten, white flour, bread cakes, pasta, acid fruits such as citrus , pork, white wine and raw tomatoes. Intolerance to these foods may aggravate pre disposing symptoms such as eczema, asthma, rash and hives, IBS and irritable colitis leading to more serious conditions such as cealiac and crone’s . Seasonal allergies and intolerance may also strike in the summer months when pollen and dust is at its height, causing many nasty symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose and sore throat due to post-nasal drip.
PYCNOGENOL is also referred to as Pine Bark and is an exceptional anti oxidant. Oxy-gen-derived free radicals have the ability to release histamine from mast cells. Histamine is probably the most important brain hormone implicated in our health to activate the immune system and to support us against allergic reactions. HONEY AND BEE PROPOLIS Bee products such as propolis and honey – have been used in folklore for centuries and the pollen and the resin that bees collect is used to protect the hive against harmful disease and of course propolis and honey are both renowned for their healing powers against allergies so you no longer have to suffer through spring, summer. A spoonful of honey together with propolis not only soothes the throat of harmful congestion but tastes lovely as well and children love it.
Firstly Avoid the Allergen!
PHYTOBIOPHYSICS Flower formula FF6 Phacelia is renowned for supporting you if you suffer with allergies.
GINGER is a wonderful natural anti-inflammatory and now researchers are beginning to advise ginger as a prevention and alleviation of allergic rhinitis symptoms.
Nature has all the answers and whilst medication may alleviate your suffering for a short while the problem usually returns with a vengeance whilst natural remedies have a long term benefit.
CINNAMON a wonderful cure for sore throats and colds and flu like symptoms.
St John Ambulance train you to be able to support people when they have serious reactions and your training may save someones life.
Fortunately there are some wonderful natural remedies.
GARLIC renowned for its healing powers for supporting the heart and boosting the immune system YOGHURT and probiotics can have a profound effect on reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergies, as well as reduced nasal symptoms such as itching, rhinitis, and blockage and reduced throat symptoms as well.
For more information call 738737 diana@phytob.com www.dianamossop.com
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STUDIOS | GIFTS SHOPS | GALLERIES | CAFES
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"' +, 2F Genuine Jersey is the guarantee of true local provenance. Accredited products begin life in raw form and through the creativity and craftsmanship of Islanders become objects of desire. Available across the Island, a purchase supports local craftspeople and supports the local economy.
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Look for the Mark before you buy
Asthma, Severe Allergic Reaction, Breathing Difficulties Would you know what to do if you saw someone unwell? If not, consider attending one of our first aid training courses, we run a variety of courses, to suit everyone’s needs. Please check our website for further details. Diana Mossop, Commandery President for St John Ambulance Jersey, is proud to support all the work of St John Ambulance.
For information on how to become an adult member please contact Wendy Buckley by email: countyhq@sja.org.je or telephone 507809 www.stjohnambulancejersey.com
ENGAGEMENT RINGS • WEDDING BANDS FINE VINTAGE PIECES • JERSEY SILVER REPAIRS & RESTRINGING SPECIALIST ENGRAVING SERVICES GIFTS FOR BRIDESMAIDS & GROOMSMEN
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FIT FOR PREDATORY PURPOSE Owls make their presence known, says MIKE STENTIFORD It’s easy to rudely dismiss this duo of newcomers simply as the long and the short, yet they nevertheless make a major contribution to the 216 other species of owls world-wide. The one that’s made the most impact, locally, is the Long-eared owl, a real beauty of a beast that appears to be very much on the increase as a breeding species. Known for its ‘stand out’ yellow eyes and its gloriously accentuated ear tufts, the species is currently promoting Jersey by giving it top billing on an owls must visit ‘hoot list’. The diurnally inclined Short-eared owl picture by Tony Wright
OWLS, not unlike dolphins and puffins, are part of that distinguished group of animal representatives whose unfamiliar lifestyles arouse our curiosity. As a result, we somehow warm to them and feel privileged should we be fortunate ever to see them.
Last year, ten pairs decided to set up home here, a modest number perhaps, but one that would nevertheless have been unheard of only a couple of decades ago. Whether Barn or Long-eared, both species are recognised as favouring the hours of darkness in which to carry out their culinary ‘shopping’ trips. Bucking the trend is the Short-eared owl, a species described as diurnal; an owl that can function during the daylight hours through to sunset and dusk.
Likely as not, it’s because an animal that’s seen only on rare occasions - if at all - has the secretive kind of lifestyle that’s way beyond the bounds of our human comprehension.
Furthermore, unlike the other two species, Short-eared owls have no desire to qualify as a locally breeding species - one or two of them present themselves here only during the months of winter.
While puffins live mostly far out at sea and dolphins do ‘happy’ under the waves, owls, generally, retain their own sense of mystery by being shackled to the restraints of the night shift.
Being extremely fond of open ground in which to hone their hunting skills, our dunes and headlands obviously prove to be their prime chosen territories.
Although, nocturnally speaking, this is not entirely true.
What all three owl species do have in common is their dietary requirements; mice, shrews, rats and, on occasion, even small birds.
Of the three species of owl recorded here in Jersey, two have the advantage of night vision while the other enjoys finding its culinary preferences during the hours of daylight. By far and away the most familiar - if, indeed, owls can ever be regarded as familiar - is the Barn owl. He of the heart-shaped face and golden mantle; pale, ghost-like and referred to in ancient Britain as Dilyan wen.
That Jersey plays host to this trio of impressive species says much about our diversity of landscape. The fact that with each, in their own individual way, favouring open grassland, pine and mixed woodland, maritime heathland and sand dunes, clearly confirms that there’s much more variety to our nine-by-five land mass than we sometimes appreciate.
Locally, as recently as the 1930’s, the species was known as the White-breasted Barn owl and proved so numerous that many a glass-encased individual proudly adorned the drawing rooms of Jersey farmers. Despite these early ‘fashion statements’, the species continues to do remarkably well with the latest estimates being in excess of 90 pairs. Barn owls, then, have been a long and integral part of the local landscape but, comparatively recently, the species has been joined by two other members of its impressive fraternity - the Long-eared owl and the Short-eared owl. 32 -
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Long-eared owl
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PROTECTION. SHOULDN’T IT BE NATURALLY BUILT IN?
SUBARUSENSE Protecting the driver, their passengers and other road users is our priority. So it’s no wonder the Subaru SUV range has the maximum 5* Euro NCAP safety rating. The unique design of our Boxer engine is just one of the reasons why. Its horizontallyopposed configuration means the engine profile is flatter than other engine types so it sits deeper in the engine bay. In the event of a frontal collision its low position allows the engine to absorb the energy of an impact. Its structure is designed to disconnect and slide under the passenger compartment. The result? Greater protection to the driver and passenger’s lower limbs. At Subaru, functionality comes before anything else. To us, it just makes sense. Find out more at Subaru.co.uk/sense or call or visit your local dealer:
BAGOT ROAD GARAGE, BAGOT ROAD, ST SAVIOUR, JE2 7PG. CALL US ON 01534 815 120.
SUBARU RANGE Fuel consumption in mpg (lit/100km): Urban 25.2-41.5 (11.2-6.8); Extra Urban 40.4-61.4 (7.0-4.6); Combined 33.2-52.3 (8.5-5.4). CO 2 Emissions 197-141g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not refl ect real driving results. Subaru Forester, Outback and XV awarded 5* Euro NCAP rating. Model shown is Forester XT Lineartronic priced at £31,995 plus special paint finish at £550.
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SOBER PLEASURES Five of Jersey’s finest palates combine their unique talents and take on the challenge to discover the different tastes in water brands. A ‘RURAL consumer guide’ by KIERANNE GRIMSHAW DRINKING water is doubtlessly one of the most precious things in the world and also the most understated. We flavour it with chemicals, fruit, and almost anything, but have you ever thought about what it actually tastes like? When asked to try the wine at a meal, should we also consider what type of water to drink? Five expert judges were chosen by RURAL magazine to take part in a water tasting to help decide if indeed water did vary from brand to brand. At La Mare Wine Estate, a plentiful array of various still waters were laid out to be sampled and critiqued. Over the past two decades, bottled water has become the fastest growing drinks market in the world. This market now appears to have been saturated. When planning the event, the main challenge had been deciding on which type of wine to rinse out the palate. After some deliberation, it was agreed not to use a beverage, but something more appropriate - water biscuits, of course. Seven different bottled waters were expertly camouflaged with smart black wine tasting sleeves. The aim was to be objective and transparent, rather like the water itself. Our selection of seven brands represented a minute ratio of hundreds of different drinking waters worldwide. The choices 34 -
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included some popular English and French household names, as well as a lesser known exotic brand: ‘Fiji Artesian’ (yes really); Volvic; Jersey Water from the tap; Buxton Still; Hildon Still; Evian; JEC Distilled Water. Our intrepid Judges were: Mark Bowden (Jersey Water), Marion Gorrod (Waitrose), Daniel de Carteret (La Mare Wine Estate), Tony Kubasek (Grand Hotel) and Hamish Marett-Crosby (Journalist and wine expert). The water connoisseurs sounded extremely knowledgeable as animated discussions took place between samplings. The concentration on their faces was impressive as a good amount of looking, sniffing, sipping and swirling took place. So what were the overall ratings? The clear favourite was Fiji Artesian. The alluring label on the bottle states: ‘It supports communities and preserves Fiji’s natural beauty’, but what about taste? According to Tony, it was ‘fresh, clean & light’, while Marion described it as ‘pleasant and clear’. Tony believed this brand would be the perfect spool for wine tasting. Voted the best of seven, it was also the most expensive. Another more familiar brand, was simply Jersey Water from the tap – so how did this fare? Comments ranged from ‘a bit chemical’, ‘smooth & clean with a metallic aftertaste’ to ‘slight odour, nice taste’ (the latter by Mark from Jersey Water itself). It was somewhat reassuring to see this was voted around the middle of the range.
bottled at source from St Anne’s Spring, in the Peak District’. It has more sodium than most waters. Marion compared the taste with ice cubes and ‘a bit salty and seaweed-y’; Mark described it as ‘pond-y and more aged’, so a general saline flavour was identified. Hildon Still Water originates further south, beneath the beautiful chalk hills of Hampshire. It’s label declares it ‘delightfully still’ and it is actually highly regarded by Water Sommeliers worldwide. Mark thought it smelt ‘sweet and fresh’ and the general consensus was this had a clean, crisp flavour. Voted second overall, Daniel suggested it would make the ideal blend with vodka, or another clear alcohol. The final bottle was distilled water from the JEC. Distillation is the process whereby water is boiled, evaporated and the vapour condensed, to eliminate impurities. This was one of the least favourites, described by Mark as slightly metallic with a bitter aftertaste. Marion thought it had a longer lasting taste, while Daniel described it as a “soft water”. It also has a natural PH of 7, so La Mare use it to cut their spirits. Overall, the results were enlightening. Who would have thought there could be so many adjectives to describe water? Why not try a blind tasting at home with friends - or perhaps even consider a career change and become a Water Sommelier? The profession is still very uncluttered.
The rival French waters were neck and neck, with Evian just coming out ahead. The latter’s marketing message confirms it contains natural mineral water from the Alps and is low in minerals. Our experts described it as both ‘bland’ and ‘neutral’ and according to Hamish, ‘tasteless and soft’. Tony suggested it would be the perfect mix with Whiskey when in Scotland. Any excuse. Volvic, marketed as having flowed through layers of volcanic rock, with a clean, crisp taste, was just behind. Daniel believed this would be the ideal cut for a liquor (something perhaps only evident for a wine buff). Hamish described it as ‘flat’ as opposed to ‘crisp’, so proving that marketing messages can be quite subjective. Moving on to our English brands, Buxton’s label declared that ‘5,000 years ago this mineral water fell as rain and was
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THE FORGOTTEN FOREST A celebration of trees and all they offer’ is how chairman for Jersey Trees for Life, Gerard Farnham interprets the term ‘arboretum’. The charity is working hard to restore this celebration - and perhaps Jersey’s best kept secret. Gerard took CATHERINE GARNER on a guided tour THE Arboretum’s origins begin with the tragic story of how the Moore family lost their son Nigel in a road accident. Their wish was to create an arboretum in his memory and, with permission from Jersey Water, Val de la Mare became the chosen site. Hundreds of seeds with guaranteed provenance were sourced from around the world. The seedlings were nurtured at the States of Jersey Nurseries, then planted and the legacy became a reality. Eventually, however, funding dried up and subsequent maintenance was kept to a bare minimum. Some of the exotic trees became overgrown with more aggressive species and many specimens were lost. The great storm of 1987 also damaged the collection. A programme to restore the Arboretum to its former glory was started by the charity around ten years ago. Undergrowth and pathways have been cleared, invasive species such as Sycamore have been reduced and trees which have been lost are being replaced. Areas of native woodland between the zones are not being ignored as they help maintain the native ecological balance in the area and provide a great location for teaching and study. The Arboretum is spread over the South fork of the reservoir to the dam and is divided into twelve zones designated by country or genus, interspersed with native woodland.
There are different zones, including Australasian, American, Birch, Walnuts, Wingnuts and Hickory, Elm trials, Chinese, Japanese, Ash, Conifer and Mixed Oak. The specimens are chosen for their beauty or rarity but others serve specific purposes, such as the trials to find more disease resistant species of Elm.
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In the Australasian zone, trees and shrubs from cooler areas of Australasia are able to thrive in Jersey’s mild climate. Magnificent Eucalyptus trees greet the visitor without impacting on the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Seedlings are planted in areas best suited to their individual needs. Three Chinese Bog Gums thrive in the naturally wet area that the spring beside the main footpath provides. These are national champions and three of only six left in the UK.
Finding the balance between nature and nurture will be the key to the future survival of the project and ensuring that this forgotten forest is remembered by future generations. ‘You can walk past an interesting or important specimen without realising, so the zones have to be eye-catching and architectural but you also need to have a variety and age progression to protect the zone’s integrity in the future’ added Gerard. ‘And slowly, bit by bit, I think we’re getting there’.
In the American zone, majestic Redwoods tower over the path. Their bright red bark makes them easy to spot, but one of the aims of the charity is to improve public awareness of the Arboretum and knowledge about the different species so that generations to come recognise that trees play a huge role in our lives. This plan includes new signage, maps, and interpretation boards. The first of the new lecterns made from an 83 year old chestnut is now in place in the Conifer Zone with new interpretation boards to be added soon.
*For more information about the Arboretum and Jersey Trees for Life visit www.jerseytreesforlife.org. For visitors, the number 9 and 28 (summer only) buses go to Val de la Mare, St Peter
Clearing and planting is labour intensive and relies heavily on volunteers, sponsorship and donations to supplement the current three man team at Jersey Trees for Life. Trees and even entire zones are also available for adoption. Gerard said: ‘Without sponsorship, donations and the work of volunteers, the Arboretum may not exist so we are improving what we can provide for the sponsor and the experience for the volunteers. The Chinese zone is a great example of what can be achieved. Under the initial plan of the 1970s, this was never planted but over the course of a year, sponsors have cleared the entire area, built a new path and sponsored the new young trees planted.’
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T: 01534 737293 T: www.maillards.je www .maillards.je
Maillard’s Estates are pleased to Maillard’s contin ue ser ving the rural rural community community u continue serving through Tommy Tommy A’Court, A’Court, our agricultural agr icultural land specialist,, and the Team. Team. eam Country House Sales
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ENDURANCE RIDING:Layout 1 02/06/2017 15:18 Page 1
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THE LONG, LONG TRAIL, A-WINDING Geoffrey and Gilly Stafford-Nelson prove that the equestrian sport of endurance riding is not just for tiny tots on tiny trots. They spoke to RUTH LE COCQ IT was the muddy boots outside the back door that gave the game away. It was clear the occupants of this house spent a lot of time outdoors and, on closer inspection, tiny traces of white hair could be seen clinging to the leather. This was the home of horse lovers!
Mer, introduced them to the joys of riding at ‘La Haule Yerle’, a riding centre run by Georges Fournier, who promotes endurance riding.
Geoffrey Stafford-Nelson’s passion for horses started over 70 years ago when, as a boy, he helped his brother plough the fields on his father’s farm in Suffolk.
There, they met Darios, a grey gelding, who captured the hearts of them both.
‘I used to sit on the backs of the horses as they worked the land but, although I longed to ride properly, my father refused to have a riding horse – a horse was only welcome on the farm if it was going to earn its keep,’ he said. In fact, Geoff didn’t sit on a horse again until he was 60 years old when he decided, quite suddenly, that he and his wife, Gilly, were going on a riding holiday in the Camargue. ‘It was 1994,’ said Gilly, ‘Geoff couldn’t even ride but he wasn’t going to let that stop him. He had six riding lessons and then we were off on our first equine holiday in France!’ That decision heralded the beginning of a new way of life for the couple as they embraced adventure after adventure on horseback in France and elsewhere. Gilly herself hadn’t ridden for many years mainly because, when she moved to Jersey in 1976, horse riding was – and still is – an expensive hobby. ‘I learnt to ride when I was eight or nine years old. I was supposed to go to piano lessons every week and my mother gave me the money to go but instead I snuck off to have riding lessons!’ She laughed.
‘We got on so well that we returned to ride with Georges time and time again,’ Gilly said.
‘He was bred by Georges,’ said Geoff, ‘but he wasn’t really suitable for riding school lessons and when we heard he was going to be sold we decided to bring him back to Jersey.’ Gilly continued: ‘He is 24 years young now and Geoff still rides him on most days.’ Over the years the couple became captivated by France’s varied landscape and horseback riding enabled them to step into the natural world and observe an abundance of wildlife. ‘The beauty of it is that all the trails link from department to department from the north of France to the south and the tracks go on forever. You are surrounded by beautiful scenery and wildlife. You can ride along all day with hardly crossing a road or seeing another person,’ said Geoff. In recent times the couple have enjoyed riding Western style with Pascal Leroux, exploring Suisse Normande in the border region of the departments of Calvados and Orne. Its name reflects its rugged landscape resembling the Swiss Alps with deep gorges and lush vegetation. Pascal has also taken them to ride in the region surrounding Haras du Pin, which is the oldest national stud founded by Louis XIV. It is nicknamed ‘the equestrian Versailles’.
Although the couple have since ridden through several beautiful European countries, they have returned to France again and again to explore as much of it as possible.
‘Pascal offers highly trained and safe horses – you could put a five-year-old on them – as well as ponies. We’ve certainly had some fun and we’ve had so many adventures together,’ said Gilly.
‘We’ve made so many fabulous friends and we have stayed in some fabulous places including a beautiful manor house surrounded by a moat,’ said Gilly.
‘And we’ve still got more adventures to come,’ said 83-yearold Geoff, as he turned to Gilly with a twinkle in his eye, and then urged her to start planning where their next riding holiday in France was going to be!
‘Although,’ added Geoff with a smile: ‘We’ve also stayed in some less-than-ideal places. Remember the one with the sheep?’
*More information about riding holidays with Pascal Leroux can be found at www.equidext.com.
Gilly began to chuckle: ‘We were high up in the Pays Basque region and we slept in a shed and underneath us there were wet sheep wearing bells which kept us awake all night!’ Geoff recalled, with an air of satisfaction: ‘We ate the best meal we’ve ever had in France there – home-cooked lamb and pork with homemade vegetable soup and cheeses.’ It was on the couple’s second holiday in the Valleé du Lot in the Dordogne that Michel, the then Mayor of Benerville-sur-
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LOYAL FRIENDS (AND COLANDERS) Originally designed to carry a basket of eggs across a ploughed field, the love for the Citroen 2CV brings a small group of devotees together to celebrate the much loved icon of France’s motor industry. CATHERINE GARNER joined them on the club’s monthly outing THE 2CV de Jersey club was founded in 2015 by Peter Kinley, Eddie Noel and Sean Power who had attended the annual meeting of the 2CV clubs of France held at La Rochelle that June. The inaugural meeting of 2CV de Jersey in September 2015 was a chance for fellow devotees to meet and enjoy this quirky car. All the cars have a story to tell and the sheer fun in driving them now brings the cars together every month. The 2CV de Jersey has also been represented at a UK and a Brittany meet. Sean Power, a co-founder of the club 2CV de Jersey, said: ‘Driving a small, slow, old-fashioned, idiosyncratic, French car around Jersey puts a smile on my face and the funny thing is that as you drive by, it seems to put a smile on the faces of those who see you drive a Citroen 2CV. It is always a happy experience driving a "Deux Cheveux”.’
In the mid-1930s, Citroen started developing a revolutionary car which would be known as 2CV. Like Volkswagen of the same era, 2CV was designed to be a ‘people's car’ and put the whole country on wheels. In many ways, however, the baby Citroen was an even more advanced design, being more innovative, more practical, yet even cheaper than the Hitler-funded Volkswagen. Unlike the Ford Model T and Volkswagen, Citroen 2CV was targeted at the majority of French people - farmers. It therefore opened a new class, those who previously could not afford a car. This car had to be cheap, simple to produce and robust, as well as economical to run. It had to be capable of 40 mph, carry four people on board, plus a big bag of potatoes. To deal with the rough country roads of France, it needed good suspension so that the farmers could carry baskets of eggs without worrying about breaking them.
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The name 2CV stands for deux chevaux in French or ‘two horsepower’ in English. This was rated according to the ancient tax horsepower formula, calculated according to engine capacity rather than actual power output. In reality, the car had more horsepower than that. In the following years, its engine was enlarged to 424cc (12hp), 435cc (26hp) and 602cc (initially 28hp, then upgraded to 33hp). They actually equalled to 4CV and 6CV tax horsepower. Citroen, however, kept the now well-known 2CV name. Like Volkswagen, Citroen had completed 250 pilot cars before WWII broke out. Their fate then differed. While the German car was converted to military use, Citroen had to destroy the pilot cars and bury the prototypes during the period German occupied France. When the war was over, it saw the light again and eventually entered production in 1948. By then it was already ten years old. Since its launch at the Paris motor show in 1948, over 8.8 million 2CVs were produced, including a variation of vans, car derivatives and moulded open utility vehicles named ‘Mehari’. Production ceased in 1990 and many were discarded until fans began restoring the cars and they became collectable. The 2CV was, however, by no means outdated. People found it contained brilliant ideas everywhere. Its folding-paper-like body shell was cheap to produce yet robust, its cabin was spacious, with a lot of headroom and it even had a canvas roll-open soft roof. Club Secretary, Muriel Nicolas, bought her red and white 2CV ‘Titinne’ in Eastbourne in 2014 and she describes her first experience of the 2CV. She said: ‘When we collected the car to
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bring it back to Jersey we decided to stop and open the roof. Half way down the motorway the poppers holding the roof down came away and I was left holding onto the roof with both hands until we could stop. She is a loyal friend but unfortunately Titinne has a habit of turning into a colander when it’s raining.’ The club welcomes all owners and devotees. ‘We know there are more in Jersey,’ said Sean, the proud owner of a black and cream 2CV van. ‘So, if you own a Citroen 2CV or want to see one, please come along.’ For more information visit the website: www.2cvdejersey.co.uk
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THEATRE OF WAR ALASDAIR CROSBY enjoys (watching) some strenuous physical exercise incurred in bringing back an old Jersey tradition THERE is nothing more congenial than physical exercise. I could look at other people doing it for hours. Especially if, at the same time, I am enjoying a mug of cider and a sausage from La Robeline’s stall, and, on a warm and sunny day, I am relaxing on a grassy bank overlooking a theatre of war. Tug of War - great theatre. This was at the premises of Ernie’s Agricultural Trade Centre in St John. The company had organised a tug of war competition, in aid of Jersey Hospice. It was an event which could have happened at any time over the last century or so: Tug-of-War; rural sports; inter-parish rivalry - all the things that once upon a time might have helped to define Jersey, but do so less in this more modern, more jaded and less sociable age. Ernie’s Sales manager, Matt Maughan, said: ‘Tug of War in Jersey completely died around seven years ago. There were two teams left slightly before then – and then St Ouen’s team became the final team left, with no one in the Island to compete against. They could only enter a competition if they travelled away from the Island. ‘The event we organised proved that there are an awful lot of people really interested in the sport itself. Some people just came for the day out, but got really gripped into the tug of war and loved it. There were loads of small kids who – perhaps better used to watching football – were engrossed by it. ‘When I saw the enthusiasm of competitors and spectators, I did wonder why the sport had died away.’ A total of 12 teams competed with might and main against each other. 12 teams competed and St Ouen’s team, which although it had disbanded, re-formed for this event, were the eventual winners. They played ‘Polish United’ in the final competition, described by Matt as ‘a battle of pure strength on the Polish side against technique and skill on the other side. The Polish team comprised body builders and bouncers – it was like a battle of David and Goliath.’ 46 -
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St Ouen (David) one the first heat, the Polish (Goliath) won the second, St Ouen won the tie. Third place was taken by ‘TBC’. The abbreviation stood for ‘To Be Considered’ as they could not think of a name for the team, which comprised members of the former all-Island team. They won over ‘Girder Gorillas,’ who came fourth. Matt continued: ‘Our charity partner this year are Jersey Hospice and we wanted to raise as much money for them as possible. We discussed which event had an appropriate rural, agricultural background but at the same time would create a good fund-raising opportunity for Jersey Hospice – as well, of course, as promoting the name of the Ernie’s! ‘Since we are synonymous with the agricultural and rural side of the Island, the tug of war contest in the context of an open day at Ernie’s appeared to be the right answer. It was an event that would create publicity and therefore fund-raising opportunities for Hospice and at the same time showcase our business.’ The sight of children getting ‘close and personal’ to John Deere tractors – as well as enjoying every minute of the tug of war; families enjoying a day out… in Matt’s words: ‘Our slogan for the event was “bringing an old Jersey tradition back” – and it would be nice to think that this what we achieved.’
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"KD@M HMUDRSLDMS /TQD DMDQFX
ONE DAY
WE’LL LAUGH AT HEATING OUR HOMES
WITH FOSSIL FUELS
MAKE THE SWITCH TO ELECTRIC HEATING In years to come people will look back with wonder at the dirty and inefficient fossil fuel burning systems that heated our homes and hot water. These days clean energy from 100% efficient electric heating systems will not only look after the pennies but will also help save the planet. Isn’t it time you considered making the switch?
Call us on 505460 to discuss your current heating system and how we can help you to make the switch to electric and a cleaner, greener future. or visit www.jec.co.uk/switch
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THE AFRICAN QUEEN The Jersey Cow is now eminent in Rwanda, where she has a real humanitarian role. PHILIPPA EVANS-BEVAN paid her a visit recently THE Jersey cow has always been an ambassador for Jersey ever since the days when she accompanied voyagers and colonisers to distant lands, as a ship’s cow. The Jersey cow has also been described as ‘the foster mother of the human race’ and it is a testament to this that she is now performing a real ‘humanitarian role’, in the small African country of Rwanda, where she delivers much needed nourishment and improves the fortunes of many families and communities. I visited Rwanda in May, the so-called ‘Land of A Hundred Hills’. The beautiful verdant landscapes might mislead a visitor into thinking this country has a prosperous agricultural industry. Yes, there are rolling tea and coffee plantations (which are key exports), but overall it belies the chronic levels of severe rural poverty that were all too visible during my visit there. But things are changing for the better. Rwandans are enthusiastic, capable farmers who learn fast. The welcoming families I met are increasing small-scale food production from the land and the Jersey cow is playing a very special part: she is now reducing hunger and poverty and contributing to the emotional healing of communities torn apart by the trauma of the Rwandan Genocide. The reason why there are Jersey cows in Rwanda dates back to 2004, when a delegation from the Government of Rwanda visited Jersey to investigate training Rwandans in Artificial Insemination (AI) and to supply frozen Jersey semen to cross with the Ankole native cow. The Ankole cow produces a daily yield of one to two litres of milk. Trials established that a Jersey cross-bred Ankole would substantially increase milk yields, while maintaining an animal suited to the environment of Rwanda. The first cross cow produced 12 litres of milk per day and the second cross (75% Jersey 25% Ankole) yielded 16 litres of milk per day. In 2005, the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society’s chief executive officer, James Godfrey, together with André Millitis, a senior AI technician from Jersey, went to Rwanda to set up the project. By 2008, trained AI technicians had increased from 19 to 370 and 160,000 units of Jersey semen had been supplied. Milk production increased from 130m litres in 2006 to 472m litres in 2012. The projected yield for 2017 is 730m litres.
By 2014 some 184,000 families had established small herds and this is forecast to reach 350,000 families by the end of this year. In the ‘Girinka’ project, families are given an animal, plus the advice to effect good welfare and husbandry. They pass on the first female calf to the next family, as well as mentoring skills. Cow manure is used to improve fertility and to enhance vegetable production. The multiplier effect is remarkable and wholly sustainable. Rwanda has surplus produce to sell and a real dairy industry is developing, bringing employment and export opportunities. As is well-known in the Island, the Jersey cow can adapt well to extreme temperatures. She is extremely docile and has a pleasant temperament. The breed has longevity, reducing the replacement costs for herds and allowing for more lactation during her lifetime. The Jersey cow has good resistance to disease and cases of mastitis and dystocia (difficult calving) are very low. She also has high fertility rates and matures early. Many cows calve for the first time at 19 months. The calving interval is also short. She is high yielding and the milk contains high butterfat content of 4.84 % - this is 25% more than average milk. Protein reaches about 3.95% - this is 18% more than other breeds. Calcium content in Jersey milk is 25% more than average. This is important for reducing bone deformity, rickets and stunting in children. The efficiency of the Jersey cow in converting grass to such high quality milk at low cost is impressive. It is claimed that owing to her small efficient frame, the Jersey leaves a ‘Carbon Footprint’ 20% less than the average cow. I was privileged to Visit Rwanda with the UK based charity Send a Cow (SAC)) with which the RJA&HS have entered into a partnership. I met their inspiring Rwandan team whose mission is ‘to give communities and families the hope and means to secure their own futures from the land.’ They are undoubtedly succeeding. With the Rwandan government, and SAC, this is a highly effective collaboration for Jersey It is also a tribute to the initiative, compassion and pioneering spirit of the RJA&HS: they not only identified and enthusiastically mobilised the Jersey breed in Rwanda but now look to work alongside the Rwandans, helping them build on future opportunities for generations to come.
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‘TIME FOR SOLUTIONS’ This was the theme of this recent conference in Brussels, the annual Forum for Agriculture – ‘Where Agriculture and the Environment meet.’ PHILIPPA EVANS-BEVAN was in the packed auditorium THE annual ‘Forum for Agriculture’ (FFA) conference in Brussels is the premier global forum on sustainable agriculture and environmental challenges. Each year luminaries from leading international institutions, including the European Commission and Parliament, the food and farming chain, NGOs and businesses from every sector present their diverse views. I have attended the FFA for the past three years and for the tenth FFA anniversary in 2017 there was a record attendance of almost 2,000 delegates representing 60 countries to hear the views and messages referring to the conference title, ‘Time for Solutions’. Forum chairman Janez Potocnik said: ‘We can no longer afford to wait and see, or to keep using the old wasteful models of the 19th and 20th Centuries and pretend they will sustain us …we are surrounded by evidence that they cannot.’ The framework and direction for change have already been clearly mapped out in the UN’s ‘Sustainable Development Goals ‘(SDGs) and the binding Paris Agreement. These are global in scope, but what is needed is to drive solutions at the national level to engage all corners of society and work together. So the focus was about the solutions we have at our disposal and the world we seek for tomorrow, linking global, European and local efforts to achieve this. It was suggested that challenges were not only material and economic, but also profoundly spiritual ones that ask us to re-examine our place in the world and what our dominance of the land really means in the long term. A point, underlined in a letter delivered by the Vatican’s Cardinal Secretary of State on behalf of Pope Francis, expressed the hope that delegates would be inspired to intensify the work and make it ever more creative and better organised. He emphasised the right of every human being to healthy and sufficient nourishment and encouraged efforts to help every country achieve self-reliance, so as to facilitate community structures that valued small producers and protected eco-systems and bio-diversity.
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The keynote speaker, former UN Secretary Kofi Annan, reiterated the call for us all to change our mindset and work together. HE SET OUT FIVE PRIORITY AREAS FOR SOLUTIONS: • more investment in developing countries to increase agricultural production - a critical driver of economic and social wellbeing; • the importance of smallholder farmers, who produce 70% of all food consumed worldwide; • to ensure agriculture and food systems become ‘nutrition smart’; • more efficient and responsible use of resources in producing adequate food, preventing the loss of natural habitats; • an immediate push to reduce farming’s climate footprint and move towards renewable energy, creating more opportunities for investment growth and employment and averting climate catastrophe. Mr Annan was critical of President Trump’s plans to go against the climate change agenda and promote fossil fuels in the US. In contrast, he pointed to China, where public pressure is forcing government to tackle environmental pollution. In a video of the Pope’s personal address, much emphasis was made on the dire need to reduce waste, both in terms of the food and materials we throw away and also the resources wasted in production. This was an area also focused on by Dame Ellen Macarthur in her concise and insightful address on the circular economy and the work of her foundation. In all, there were plenty of warnings that time was running out in the race to re-shape our current economic models - and to create a new sustainable society – it was indeed time for solutions. Photo: The keynote speaker, former UN Secretary Kofi Annan
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Enjoy Summer this year with the whole family, or getaway for a romantic break and enjoy one of the finest eateries in the Channel Islands. If you are looking for a special present a gift voucher from La Sablonnerie can be purchased in any monetary value. Choose anything from a delicious luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner, an overnight stay or a champagne celebration with canapés.
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BRIGHT. BRI GHT. COMMERCIAL. CIAL. RESPONSIVE. SIVE.
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FROM EMPTY SHELL TO FAMILY HOME REUSING the old and recycling the new are key considerations during the ongoing renovation of a Victorian house of special architectural and historical interest (last featured in the Spring edition of RURAL) in Trinity. By RUTH LE COCQ THE mahogany staircase with stick balusters seems to invite visitors to venture up the stairs at Vale View to discover the delights of peering into the garden through the unusual 16-pane sash windows with their hand-blown glass. The first-floor bedrooms feature original 19th Century fireplaces with moulded chimney pieces flanked by integral cupboards so favoured by those living in the Victorian age. In some ways, it is like stepping back in time. As any owner of a building listed as being of special architectural interest knows, there is a responsibility to maintain and preserve the house in close-to-original condition, so it is important to abide by specific rules. These rules are well known to Marilyn Leonard, the managing director of local firm Keystone Builders, whose team of skilled workers are endeavouring to ensure the original features of Vale View remain as a testament to its past. That past also includes keeping the stained glass in the front door which probably originates from the later Edwardian era. 52 -
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However, upholding the past does not necessarily mean being unable to incorporate up-to-date methods into the building’s fabric. For example, damp is one of the most common problems encountered in historic buildings. Marilyn explained that modern buildings are constructed with a waterproof membrane over the complete site and use cement mortar and two skins of brickwork to create a cavity across which water cannot pass. In contrast, most older buildings are built of solid walls and lime mortar. Unlike modern building materials, which are hard and impervious, traditional building materials are soft porous; they allow moisture to enter which then evaporates into the atmosphere. This is referred to as ‘breathing’ or ‘breathable construction’. To alleviate any damp, Keystone Builders has used a studded polypropylene waterproofing membrane with a special mesh welded to one side. ‘It is fixed to damp, contaminated walls and it creates an air-gap which allows the wall to breathe whilst blocking the passage of moisture,’ said Marilyn.
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On the reverse side of the membrane the special mesh can be plastered onto, allowing a dry plaster finish to be achieved without risk of contamination from damp or salts in the wall.
some good quality units recycled from another house. The solid wood fronts are currently being sprayed and hand painted by locally-based painter Andy Barnes.
Inside the new extension to the rear of the property, furniture restorer and cabinet maker, Christian Delafield, is creating a unique kitchen. He explained that the north wall of the kitchen will feature a range of new units whereas the island and the other walls, as well as the worktops, will be created from
‘I’ve dismantled and modified the units and have taken into account the character of the house to design and create a Shaker/Classical style kitchen with lots of storage to meet the demands of the family,’ said Christian. ‘I enjoy looking at the character of the house I’m working on and then finding ways to express the
wishes of the client to create a kitchen, using recycled materials which are of good quality, at a fraction of the cost of a completely new one.’ The renovation of Vale View will move into its closing stages during the next few months, heralding the fusion of the old and new parts of the house towards the end of the summer when the seamless blend between 19th Century architecture and the latest in new technology will be complete.
KEYSTONE BUILDERS LTD SPECIALISTS IN: • Period Renovation • Restoration and repairs • New build • Extensions • General Plastering • Painting & Decorating • Carpentry & Joinery To discuss your next project please telephone:
Marilyn: 07797 724 331 Sean: 07797 718 673 TELEPHONE: 01534 859216 EMAIL: keystonebuildersjersey@gmail.com THE MANSE, LA CROIX AU LION, LA GRANDE ROUTE DE ST PIERRE, ST PETER, JE3 7AA
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SO NEAR NOT SO FAR AT ALL Carteret is only 30 minutes by RIB – by far the easiest and quickest way to France from Jersey, as KIERANNE GRIMSHAW discovered
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THERE are several ways of ravelling to France from Jersey, but the most direct, quickest way of doing so is to travel by RIB. On a clear day, it would be easy to imagine almost being able to swim across. Even the wind turbines on Carteret’s headland often look close enough to be on our own soil. Jersey was once part of the Normandy mainland, but nowadays the fourteen miles of water make it that bit more challenging to just pop across for a séjour – or does it? WHY CHOOSE A RIB? Perhaps you’ve never imagined you could be walking down the slip at St. Catherine’s breakwater one moment, then within half an hour be setting foot in Carteret. This 12-seater inflatable boat is definitely the way to travel when there’s just a small stretch of water to cross. After booking, just turn up with your passport 15 minutes before departure. There’s no Immigration queues, you simply climb on board and collect your life jacket – your very own taxi service on water! ON THE HIGH SEAS On a barmy hot evening in May we departed from St. Catherine’s picturesque harbour, with the RIB soon reaching full throttle. It cut through the waves like a Bond action movie. Skimming the water, it literally took our breath away – the adrenaline was rushing. Looking back to Jersey, the North Coast appeared uninhabited and remote; being out at sea certainly gave a different perspective to the Island’s image. Only 10 minutes away are the Ecréhous and if you’re lucky, something even more special – dolphins. We were extremely lucky as numerous pods of dolphins suddenly appeared, swimming around the boat, effortlessly riding the waves and giving us a spectacular show of a lifetime. Our Skipper, Mario, slowed down to ensure we could enjoy seeing these beautiful sea mammals at close range. There must have been around 20 dolphins in total; this truly magical moment would be hard to forget.
Turning into the tiny harbour the wind felt warmer, almost tropical, this was the perfect hot summer’s night – in Normandy. The boat cruised up to a small slipway and out we stepped onto French soil. No hassle with passport controls or luggage reclaim, all we needed were a few euros for dinner. Well, wasn’t this the reason for our visit? The commune of Barneville-Carteret lies on the north-west coast of the Côtentin peninsula and boasts a nationally protected coastline with a stunning stretch of golden sands and dunes. For the gastronomy lovers there’s even a Michelin Star Restaurant overlooking the marina. Unspoilt by commercialism, this traditional fishing port could have been Jersey only a few centuries ago. A delightful white sandy beach protected by miles of dunes was a short stroll way. Next stop – dinner. Carteret has many traditional French restaurants; we certainly found one of the best. The pièce de resistance was the Montgonfière de poisson (a rather posh fish pie, which looks like a large soufflé and quite delicious). With charming French waiters and authentic local cuisine, the ambience reflected the relaxed nature of all things French. Another bonus being on French soil is the extra hour of daylight, so plenty of time to try another hostelry for a digéstif alfresco. VOYAGE HOME We finally left Carteret as the sun set over the bay. A brief detour was requested to Gorey, not a problem. In a mere half an hour, the Castle loomed, austere and eerie in the dark - its dominant, foreboding shape reminding us it was originally built to protect the Island against the French. Now the Rib brought the two nations closer, just half an hour from coast to coast. In a few more minutes we reached St. Catherine’s Bay, atmospheric under the nocturnal sky. We were home – but not without contemplating just how near our neighbours really were, as the twinkling lights on the French coast said their ‘au revoir’. We would like to thank Island Rib Voyages for this truly unique maritime experience. To contact them, visit www.islandribvoyages.co.uk
FRANCE ON YOUR DOORSTEP After the excitement of dolphins, we’d almost forgotten about our destination – Carteret. The French wind turbines came into view, rapidly getting closer, we were almost there.
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THE LAZY MAN’S WAY OF GARDENING Isn’t that a concept to grab the attention of anyone who has ever wielded a garden fork? Geoff Pirouet told ALASDAIR CROSBY about his edible forest garden THE word ‘edible’ enhances the interest of the word ‘garden’ in as much the same way that the addition of ‘vine’ adds to the interest of ‘yard’.
Then there are brambles for blackberries; sloes; raspberries; a strawberry tree; rhubarb and much more in this quiet and fruitful edible forest garden.
But an edible forest garden?
The garden is classed as Category B Agricultural Land, so it cannot be built on, or the willow removed, but it is not a piece of land that could be used for any conventional commercial farm.
‘It’s a way of life for millions of people around the world,’ said the forest gardener, Geoff Pirouet, as we toured his own edible forest. ‘It’s maximum return for minimum effort. Someone once looked over my forest garden and said to me: “It looks a mess!” ‘I replied “That’s all right, then. Whenever did you see a neat forest?”’
‘When we first bought it, people would say to us: “What are you going to build there?” That is the whole point. We don’t want there to be any buildings here.’
Admittedly there are not a lot of forests in Jersey, but there are plenty of wooded areas which will do very well for Jersey’s small scale. One of these is located in an inconspicuous location off the St Peter’s Valley road.
It is still very much work in progress: a Forest Garden takes 10-15 years to get to the point that it is producing food all year round.
‘What my wife Anne and I are trying to do,’ he said, ‘is to maintain this forest-looking area, but at the same time trying to plant things that are going to produce food, in the form of nuts, berries, legumes, and fruit, or to attract bees and other insects or to put nitrogen into the ground.’
Watering is kept to a minimum, apart from raised beds and there is a general ’no dig, no water’ policy, so as to let nature take its course. He said: ‘Ploughing or digging, in our view, is about the worst thing you can do to land, as it releases carbon and moisture into the air.’ Needless to say, no sprays, fertiliser, pesticides, or chemicals are used on the land.
They bought the area about five years ago from Jersey Water. It hadn’t been used at all for about 20 years and before that some livestock had been grazed on it, but there had been no cultivated crops on it.
Geoff has created paths from wood chip from trees and branches from the site that open up the area – great for hide and seek and for the grandchildren’s Easter egg hunts.
‘The soil is perfect: balanced, and on a slope, with a natural run of water downhill. We have just planted 70 new willow trees for basket making. About a quarter of the site is under willow and the trees are coppiced every year. The forest garden takes up another quarter of the land and the other half comprises fruit trees: pear, apple, cherry, quince, plum, as well as some ‘conventional’ vegetables in raised beds.
‘We want to involve the children and create play areas. It is quite important that it should be a place where people want to come to not necessarily just for the work of producing food.
Geoff explained that there were a combination of five levels in a forest garden, from really tall trees (such as sweet chestnut) downwards to small trees (apples) and bushes ( raspberries), ground plants (rhubarb) and ground cover (chinese bramble). On the tour round his property, he pointed out the various trees, shrubs and vegetables and their uses. For example: ✿ An edible hedge: sloes, hawthorn (for haws), wild pear, rosehip, a line of hazel. Eventually they will all join together and become one hedge and everything in it will produce something to eat; ✿ Three varieties of bamboo to provide sticks and also edible bamboo shoots; ✿ Chestnuts; elder (for elderflower cordial); ✿ Bay, fig and walnut trees; ✿ Blueberry bushes; ✿ Grape vines. There are plenty of unusual plants, such as: ✿ Tree onions (Egyptian onions), which grow on top of rather than underneath the ground; ✿ Soloman’s Seals, also known as perennial leeks, which belong to the asparagus family. ✿ Camphor – used for medicinal purposes.
Why was he doing all this? Was it just a hobby? ‘My father was a grower but when I was brought up I wanted nothing to do with the land. I had no interest and instead became an accountant (I am now semi-retired). It now dawns on me that food security is very important and Anne and I wanted to have a place that was easy to maintain and would grow things that would help us survive should we find ourselves in situations where food supply was interrupted.’ The concept is influenced by the Peak Oil theory and inspired by the Director of the Agroforestry Research Trust, Martin Crawford. They wanted an area where they knew the produce had been grown without pesticides and fertilisers, and where they could educate their children and grand-children, so that they knew how and where to grow food as well as having a hobby that was also a method for survival. ‘So, we wanted to have access to our own local, home-grown produce. It’s supposed to be a food producing area for my family, so that when the proverbial hits the fan, and our food imports stop, my grandchildren will know how to grow things and have a place to grow them.’ He added: ‘The garden is just a little hideaway, really – and it’s the lazy man’s way of gardening. Maximum return for minimum effort - it makes sense to us’.
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THE ENCHANTED GARDEN
Judith Queree showed ALASDAIR CROSBY around her garden at Creux Baillot Cottage, St Ouen British Isles and there are lots of unusual plants, such as climbing aconites from China.' She continued: ‘We have worked for 12 years to get the garden looking like this. Formerly it had been used more or less as a rubbish dump and we came to know Bellozanne like the back of our hands, since for many years we were taking there regularly all the rubbish that we had dug up on our land.’
CREUX BAILLOT Cottage garden is like an alternative reality, a fairy tale in which a magician has assembled plants from all over the world in an enchanted woodland garden. In the field and around the cottage, a host of animals seems to have been turned into sculptures, awaiting another wave of the wand to bring them back to life again. It is a small garden, only about a half a vergée. But in this small space there are some 2,500 plants, many of them herbaceous perennials from all over the world, all nurtured in accordance with organic principles. The woodland ‘wet’ garden contains a collection of over 80 water loving Irises and many other plants that relish the damp conditions, such as Primulas, Lobelias and Trollius. The magician showing me around was Judith Queree, the custodian of this alternative reality. ‘This “bog garden” is fed by underground springs,’ she said, ‘so it never dries. You can see how humid it is! I have been told I may have the largest collection of tree ferns in the
Wooden walkways and steps guide the visitor through the boggy garden. Judith and her husband, Nigel (the former Senator), are very environmentally conscious, and much of the wood used has been imported by them from Normandy: ‘We try to source it all ethically and we try to include the wildlife for which our garden is their home. We have about 40 nest boxes and sometimes I actually have to raise my voice because of the noise the birds are making.’ Other areas of the garden provide the drier conditions loved by plants like Geraniums and the sun loving Salvias; a large collection includes many tender species from Central America. ‘Every day of the year there is a Clematis in flower somewhere in the garden, which is not surprising, with over 200 different varieties and species clothing every available support.’ Did she do all the work herself? ‘Nigel did all the walkways and installed the steps back when we laid out the garden in 1998, and he helps whenever there is something tricky to be done. He is the carpenter - but I am the gardener. We do have some maintenance help in the winter; I used to do it all myself, but it just got too much. I have help in spreading compost, which is hard work, especially on a slope. As I open the garden to the public and charge a small sum, obviously I am very particular to ensure everything is absolutely perfect.’
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Away from the ‘wet garden’, the field in front of the cottage is kept just for wildlife. It has wild flower seed, so looks spectacular in June and July, full of bees and insects. Turning from flora to fauna… looking over a fence bordering the lane to the cottage is a donkey. Very lifelike. In the field, a collie is herding sheep - no, a perfectly still collie is supposedly herding perfectly motionless sheep. Likewise there is the cock and hen on the roof, a horse, chickens….. oops, the chickens actually moved, so they were real, then. What nice poppies… oh, they’re ceramic. On or near the site of where once there was a small mediaeval priory, standing among what looks like ecclesiastical ruins, stands a cowled monk, life-sized. It could be a bit startling to come upon him unexpectedly at nightfall. Fortunately he is neither real nor incorporeal. He is yet another sculpture. Nigel and Judith have commissioned or bought sculptures from many sources, both local and foreign, to form this impressive collection of outdoor sculpture. Looking around the garden, it is obvious what a labour of love the gardening work must entail. ‘You can tell I’m passionate about it,’ Judith said. As the season goes on, the garden looks wilder – and more natural, which is exactly the look I want, because we’re in the countryside. I don’t want “formal”! I wouldn’t know how to garden like that. It’s not within my nature! I like mishmash and chaos – organised chaos is what I call it!’ As for Nigel’s contribution: ‘I couldn’t do it without him and he wouldn’t do it without me!’ Surely, she was asked, the garden must take up all her time? She added: ‘There’s no getting away from it – it’s a lot of hard work. There’s no easy way. It’s just relentless.’
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*The garden is open to visitors, by appointment (tel 01534 482191), from May to 30 September, with a guided tour from Judith at 11am and 2pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at a cost of £7.00 per person. Party bookings can be made by arrangement. For more details see www.judithqueree.com **There will be a special ‘Tour and Tea’ in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society on 23 June and 28 July: a guided tour with Judith followed by tea and homemade cakes.
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INSURANCE for the fishing industry THE sea plays an integral part in Island life and Jerseymen have long fished the waters surrounding us, as evidenced by the discovery of oyster shells at the Neolithic ritual site at La Hougue Bie. Yet while there will always have been some fishermen who made their livelihoods from the sea, Jersey’s commercial fishing industry only really took off with the development of the Gaspé cod fishery on Canada’s Atlantic coast, which was to peak during the mid-19th Century. Closer to home, the oyster fishery was also to experience a period of boom and bust in the 1800s although it’s now been successfully revived through the introduction and cultivation of the non-indigenous rock or pacific oyster. Another recent phenomenon has been the development of the crab and lobster fishery that now employs most of the local fleet - albeit that it has only been a feature of Jersey’s historic fishing industry for the last 60 years. One of those who has seen at first hand the changes that have shaped how the industry operates today is Steve Dole, a former professional fisherman, who is now Commercial Insurance Manager at Islands Insurance. With a father and grandfather who both owned boats, he has crewed and worked the nets and pots since he was a boy, and has been a boat owner himself since his late teens – during which time he also spent over ten years making his living as a fisherman. ‘It’s much safer now,’ he acknowledges, ‘especially with the advances in technology and automated equipment systems, but it’s still a hazardous
activity and – aside from the perils of operating in challenging local waters commercial fishermen continue to face a number of other risks to their business.’ As a result, the insurance industry has developed protection and cover for all eventualities, ranging from machinery breakdown to crew and personal accident insurance. And in the worst case scenario, such as loss of a vessel, there are additional options available, such as potential loss of earnings cover. However, it’s not just the insurance aspect that companies such as Islands offer. There is a very heavy focus by the insurance industry on safety and prevention. They also insure the Jersey Fisherman’s Association, which represents the interests of local fisherman both locally and on the international stage.
cover to protect against unforeseen events – such as a fire or serious storm – where the resulting damage means a shipment can’t be delivered. ‘For example, we insure the merchants who ship tonnes of shellfish out of the Island and, in one incident, a client of ours ended up with a lorry load of crabs all over the motorway after the lorry caught fire. Something like that would not have been covered under the vehicle’s insurance, but they were under their marine transit policy,’ explained Steve. In short, it pays to be properly prepared and insured against all manner of risk so, if you’re putting to sea (for whatever reason) do check that you have the right cover in place.
‘Most of the local fishermen are single operators and nowadays there is a requirement for you to complete a number of safety classes before you can obtain a licence. These include sea survival courses, fire prevention and first aid,’ said Steve. He explained that one of his roles is to work with fishermen to identify what insurance they need, to make sure their lives and livelihoods are fully protected and that their business is fully compliant with health and safety regulations. This specialised insurance doesn’t just cover fishing operations but now extends to marine cargo and goods in transit. This allows the merchants exporting local catches to obtain
Steve Dole
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A DIFFERENT SORT OF HERB GARDEN GRAEME LE MARQUAND writes about his own, singular herb garden I HAVE always had a fascination for growing herbs and likewise I have been intrigued by their many uses. For many years I pondered over a design that would be both sympathetic to the site of my garden and in keeping with my hobby. One of my other interests has been collecting items of what one might call ‘junk’! I have accumulated my valuable collection over the years, from dumps and auctions. Metal and wooden ‘artefacts’ were repaired and repainted. When I planted out my 27x7 meters herb garden I wanted to use my acquired stock. This included, for example: ✿ 40 x 6ft high wooden site fences, which were originally from the old land reclamation site before building had taken place on it. The fences lessened the impact of those southerly gales; ✿ tables, chairs, benches, all made from metal and wood; ✿ old chimney pots, various clay pots, granite & brick paving slabs, an old Jersey pump with granite trough, knife sharpening water wheel fully encased; ✿ water tank, ✿ several galvanised wheelie bins that were cut into 8-inch high circles to make raised beds, ✿ a small beehive, not in use, ✿ an insect hotel, constructed with rotting timbers and refurbished with decayed tree branches, bamboo canes, pipes and plastic bottles. Advice was taken on hedging etc, and casual labour was used to construct the garden. I designed it and used over 50 kinds of herbs, as can be seen in these pictures: From the beginning of July until the end of 2017, the Garden History section of La Société Jersiaise will be showing a selection of their records and old garden tools, in the display cabinet in the Members’ Room in Pier Road. The Members’ Room, is situated on then lower ground floor at the Société building at 7 Pier Road and is open during the hours of 9 am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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IF ALL ELSE FAILS – DRINK SEA WATER Jersey Water has just completed a £6 million upgrade to its Desalination Plant in St. Brelade UNTIL recently, Jersey was the only place in the British Isles to have such a facility, such is the concern to always maintain water supplies.
When running the plant it is the equivalent of 700 kettles running 24 hours a day nonstop.
In recent years one has been built on the Thames and one in the Scilly Isles, possibly a reflection on increasing populations and reducing rainfall putting ever more pressure on precious water supplies. Jersey Water has 120 days of water held in reservoirs around the Island, this equates to 2,687 Million litres, which sounds like a lot until you compare it to Guernsey that has nearly twice this and with a smaller population of just 63,000.
Water from the plant is transferred to Val de la Mare Reservoir through a pipe for mixing with natural waters, before being transferred to the treatment works for normal treatment and distribution to customers.
The Desalination Plant is an insurance policy for Jersey Water, on which they hope they don’t need to claim. Since Queen’s Valley reservoir came into service in the 1990s, we have not needed to rely on desalinated water as often; without Queen’s Valley we would be much more dependent on the Desalination Plant for our water during the summer months. Many people will still remember the long hot summers when the Island was full of tourists and the days of hose pipe bans being in force and rationing; there has not been a ban since 2003. We all consume a large amount of water, in the height of the summer Jersey Water can be pumping over 20 million litres every day, if you imagine that in 1 litre bottles for a moment you soon realise that this is a volume operation. Jersey Water commissioned its first Desalination Plant in 1970. This plant used the burning of heavy fuel oil to produce steam in order to boil sea water, followed by a condensation of the vapour to produce a fresh water distillate. In 1999 this plant had reached the end of its life and was replaced with an electrically operated Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant. The RO Desalination Plant is a two-stage process and is basically a high-pressure filtration process, whereby sea water is forced through a semi-impervious membrane, converting 45% of the sea water into fresh water. The 55% of remaining sea water, containing brine and other dissolved solids, is discharged back into the sea. The latest upgrade to the plant has increased its output to nearly 11 Million litres per day, but perhaps just as important is that it will use 36% less energy than the old plant.
When the sea water intake arrangement was installed in 1970, it was designed to allow for future upgrades of the plant. The intake is a reinforced concrete shaft 14 feet (4.26m) in diameter and 50 feet (15.24m) deep constructed in the rock outcrop below the main plant. At the bottom of the shaft, valves control the flow of seawater into the shaft from a horizontal tunnel 4 feet (1.2m) wide by 6 feet (1.8m) high and 160 feet (48.7) long, constructed in the rock below sea level. The sea water intake arrangement is constructed to allow the continuous pumping of sea water whatever the state of the tide, which can vary by 12m. There are three, 2 stage submersible pumps located in the sea water intake shaft, two live to supply the plant with over 20 million litres of sea water per day, the third pump acts as a standby. Sea water is pumped into an old quarry (called the quarry pool) for storage and then transferred into the main processing plant. Water conservation and having a sustainable supply of water is critical not only to Jersey Water but all of us that live here, this is the reason that the company is running various water saving initiatives, the latest being a theatre production that toured 14 primary schools with over 1,000 children seeing the hilarious ‘Every Last Drop’ production. When educating children to treat water sustainably, simple things make a real difference: turning the tap off when brushing your teeth, or keeping a jug of water in the fridge, instead of leaving the tap running while it gets cool for example. Jersey Water also supplies customers with water saving devices, which are available on their website along with lots of other useful tips for saving water in the home, in the garden and at work. We can all do our bit to help reduce the amount of water that is wasted and many of the changes in routine are small and will hardly be noticed. But together, they add up to significant overall savings.
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IN DEFENCE OF A FENCE Mike Stentiford has the
last word
right that from the Middle Ages History reliably tells us ey breed of multi-horned Jers are fences and, well, a e ury, ther cent that it 18th adm the to through to omy. NOW, I’d be the first rtant role in the local econ sheep played a vitally impo there are fences. parish fields of St Ouen wire ones, the ed barb told, g e we’r ainin so rem s, ly rical In the early 1700 as recently as Some, like the few histo date and r than 300 sheep while, erously past their sell-by played host to no fewe Common and are hideously and dang being grazed on Grouville t with accordingly. were s deal flock and s, out 1950 bed the grub should be loped St Brelade’s Bay. erected for ff fields in a still less-deve are ed-o that fenc s in post er timb of period of Then there are the lines le, often look , throughout quite a long oses which, on the who Easy, then, to accept that were all sustainable essentially beneficial purp , wool and knitted socks pleasing. lamb ally on, hetic mutt , aest time and le reasonab parish communities. a property or providers towards the wellbeing of te a boundary, protect ys, y-da Whether put there to deno associated local awa their led sheep and ying a few unschedu But, as the old breed of our to stop livestock from enjo in to take on the far been an integral part of out, others have stepped ed have es bow fenc oms that cust are the facts ury. Cent 21st y’s rial. toda emo of imm bigger challenges rural landscape since time standing about the environmental be where , then, in these days of y And this seems to ssar It seems totally at odds e ious nece and le simp , benef o l erection of plain enta the ronm that t, envi men hten enlig nded section e a specifically recomme o rs, timber fencing alongsid othe ng d by, a being thw of the Island’s coa tlin the En onme
LETTER TO THE EDITOR A fence has two sides From: St Ouen Deputy Richard Renouf I KNOW Mike Stentiford was meant to have ‘the last word’ (article at page 66 of the Early Spring 2017 issue) but I felt I shouldn't let his comments pass without letting you know that some think very differently about the fence in question. I believe it is wrong for Mike to compare the suggested fence between Plémont and Grosnez with the fences at Sorel and Mourier Valley. There one passes through a fence and continues on a pleasant walk among sheep, only to exit the sheep grazing area through another fence later on. The suggested fence in St Ouen is quite different: instead it would meander alongside walkers as they move along the cliff path for a distance of over 1km. The intention was to separate walkers and dogs from the sheep which would be fenced off into the coastal slopes on one side of the cliff path. I and others think that is a gross intrusion of a man made structure into one of the few areas of coastal land where one can walk often without seeing any evidence of human intervention in the landscape - simply the cliffs, sea and islands in the distance. I don't want to see a post and rail fence meandering alongside the path in front of me as I walk this wonderful unspoilt landscape. There are fantastic views from seats placed at viewing points along the path. If the fence was erected, those taking a rest on the seats would enjoy the view of the neighbouring islands and the coast of France looking through the horizontal rails of a fence!
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So I hope you will appreciate that this is a very different scenario to that which exists around Sorel and I strongly support those who have decided it should not proceed. I want to give support to positive nature conservation and the sheep rearing programme and would not necessarily be opposed to an arrangement such as we have at Sorel. However, I understand it is thought that dog owners would not comply and keep dogs on a lead for even approx 1km. Dogs can run free around Les Landes to the west and the footpath to the east of Plémont. Why should we spoil a landscape for the sake of irresponsible dog walkers? Richard Renouf
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THE NATIONAL TRUST FOR JERSEY
SUNSET CONCERTS FRIDAY 23rd JUNE
THE WORD ON THE STREET THE KINGS OF SWING
SATURDAY 24th JUNE
GRANTEZ ST OUEN BRING A PICNIC! SITE OPEN FROM 5:30PM MUSIC STARTS AT 7.15PM AND PLAYS UNTIL THE SUN SETS.
Parking on site £5 per car
In association with
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LIBERATION FESTIVAL:Layout 1 02/06/2017 16:02 Page 1
Vivaldi’s world famous Four Seasons
SPIRIT OF UNITY, SPIRIT OF FREEDOM
This year’s Liberation International Music Festival has been called ‘a huge success from start to finish’. RHONA RICHARDS looks back on this important event THE date of 9 May 2017 marked the 72nd anniversary of Jersey’s liberation from German Occupation and once again the Liberation International Music Festival was a mainstay of celebrations, attracting over 5,000 people to a series of concerts by world-renowned performers. A triumphant opening featured Royal Ballet Prima Ballerina, Lauren Cuthbertson, who was joined by a number of students from local dance schools. Lauren sparkled as she revealed the inner secrets of life as a ballet dancer and it was particularly poignant to see the Jersey youngsters dancing alongside footage of a young Lauren. Another festival highlight was the musical that took place on a gloriously sunny Liberation Day. Led by Ned Malet de Carteret, an audience that ranged from 3 to 87, walked from Ouaisne bay to St Brelade’s Church listening to tales from local history and enjoying musical interludes from guitarist Morgan Szymanski, violinist Harriet Mackenzie and members of the Jersey Liberation Concert Choir. In the evening there was a further performance by Harriet, Morgan and the choir who delighted a packed St Brelade’s Church with a selection of English, American and Italian Chamber music. This lovely performance received a well-deserved standing ovation.
Opening the second half were narrator Rhona Richards and her son, Owen, who told the moving true story of Teddy, a wartime evacuee who was stranded on Jersey for the duration of the occupation. Fortunately Teddy's story had a happy ending and fitted perfectly with the exuberant tone of the final piece of the evening, Shubert’s Trout Quintet (Die Forelle). The final concert at Jersey Opera House began with Geminiani’s La Follia Concerto Grosso, an electrifying masterpiece. This was followed by Pergolesi’s dramatic work, Stabat Mater. Counter tenor Lawrence Zazzo and soprano Soraya Mafi sang beautifully, their voices intertwining in complete harmony. Their performance received rapturous applause that gave way to gales of laughter when Mr Zazzo, who hails from New Jersey, opened his jacket to reveal a cooking apron with the slogan, ‘I love Jersey’.
On Friday evening, five celebrated stars of the classical world performed a spectacular programme of Chamber music sponsored by UBS Wealth Management. Violist Maxim Rysanov is rated as one of the world’s finest players. He was joined by his equally talented colleagues, violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky, pianist Wu Qian and cellist Dora Kokas. The concert opened with a passionate performance of Brahms’ Piano Quartet in G minor, with the four musicians moving together with complete precision and harmony. 68 -
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Royal Ballet Prima Ballerina, Lauren Cuthbertson, with dancers from Victoria College
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Stabat Mater. Counter tenor Lawrence Zazzo and soprano Soraya Mafi The second half was given over entirely to Vivaldi’s world famous Four Seasons. They were performed with drama and passion by the acclaimed Russian violin soloist, Alexander Sitkovetsky. Supporting Sitkovetsky were the members of the Jersey Chamber Orchestra and their leader Anna Smith of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. When the final applause had died away many audience members agreed that the concert was one of the finest they had ever seen in Jersey. The festival ended with picnics in the sun at the very popular event, Jazz at Hamptonne. This family day began with a joyous performance by Optimistic Voices, followed by classic sounds from the Duncan Miller Trio. Jazz legend and Ronnie Scott’s regular Ray Gelato's joyous renditions of jazz classics blew the crowd away and ensured that the 2017 festival literally ended on a high note. As in previous years, there were a number of educational events for children and young musicians throughout the festival. Sponsorship from the One Foundation and Deutsche Bank allowed the festival to link with BBC Ten Pieces, an initiative designed to encourage children to enjoy and explore classical music. Visiting artists also shared their talent and experience in a series of inspiring master-classes and, in another exciting new initiative, the Jersey Arts Trust sponsored 300 free tickets that were distributed to disadvantaged people who might otherwise be unable to attend festival events. Festival Chairman, James Mews said: ‘We had an absolutely fabulous festival this year and it was wonderful to welcome so many international stars to Jersey. We are incredibly proud about the number of opportunities we’ve been able to give young people to listen to, learn from and take part in musical events. It’s been a huge success from start to finish.’ Shubert’s Trout Quintet
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A PLACE FOR ART AND CULTURE CCA Galleries International announce the exhibitors at the Jersey Summer Exhibition. Its director, SASHA GIBB, reports
130 EXHIBITS • 75 ARTISTS 4 WEEKS • ONE GALLERY EARLIER in May, CCA Galleries and Worton Hall Studios were one of the 50 Galleries and print makers exhibiting at the Royal Academy’s London Original Print Fair. As well as new editions from Bruce McLean, Lucy Farley, Henry Jabbour, Nic Fiddian-Green, Rose and Sir Peter Blake, our stand shone with ‘Turkish Tulips’ the latest portfolio from The House of Fairy Tales. The House of Fairy Tales was set up by artists Gavin and Deborah Turk. The purpose of the charity is to help inspire children to love learning and think creatively. In Deborah’s words ‘providing imaginative spaces to learn and play is not just about creating happy children, but happy families, healthier communities and a thriving society’.
THIS year, CCA Galleries International launched Jersey’s first Summer Exhibition. The exhibition is based on the successful model at the Royal Academy – exhibits are selected by a panel of professional artists and critics and shown in a group selling exhibition. Being selected for the Jersey Summer Exhibition and consequently exhibiting at a prestigious, international gallery is expected to help launch the careers of emerging Jersey artists, as well as enforcing that of those already established. CCA Galleries International has been hosting the Skipton Open Studios taster exhibition for the past couple of years and the Jersey Summer Exhibition developed through a growing appetite for high quality, curated visual art in Jersey.
The portfolios (with work by contemporaries such as Mat Collishaw and Michael Craig Martin) were raising money to support the education program for schools. The majority of these limited edition prints were printed at Worton Hall Studios. It’s great to be a part of this inspired initiative in supporting the next generation of lateral thinkers.
Nearly 120 artists applied to take part in January. Aged from their early 20’s to well into their 80’s, the entries included animation, architecture and even a motorbike. After an initial shortlist in March, I joined the final selection panel of Managing Director Gillian Duke, Journalist and Art Critic Mel Gooding and ‘Contemporary Art Legend’ Bruce McLean to make the final decision in May. As we had hoped, there is a lively mix of known and unknown artists.
Closer to home, we’ve enjoyed the creative dialogue between stonemason Mark Guest and painter Donna Fleming Hall. Although the pair met at KIAD in the 90’s and recognised an immediate synergy with one another’s work, their current exhibition is the first time they have had a collaborative show together. Donna’s abstract seascapes inspired by the natural light and simple form of the South coast are a perfect foil for Mark’s clean lines in limestone, marble and granite. The exhibition continues until the end of June.
As always, it’s a group effort. The event has the crucial support of TEAM Asset Management who have committed to sponsoring the event for the next three years. The Arts Society are sponsoring nine student entries and JAT helped to reach much of the emerging talent. I’m personally looking forward to working with local artists again and taking their work to a new audience. The exhibition, which will fill six of our seven galleries, opens on Friday 30 June until the end of July.
Caroline Hall is another well-established painter, who although now living in Winchester, looks to the coast for inspiration. Caroline grew up around Grosnez and continues to find inspiration in Jersey, particularly the cliff walks at Les Landes and L’Etacq. Her first exhibition in Jersey celebrates the St Ouen coastline – with expansive seascapes on aluminium and wave studies on birch wood panels. Caroline’s exhibition in Jersey (23 June – 13 July) coincides with a major solo show at Southampton City Art Gallery which runs until August. Collection opposite: 1. Celina Borfiga
7. Daniel Porter
2. Alexander Mourant
8. Sergei Sogokon
3. Donna Fleming Hall
9. Maureen Osbourne
4. Alexander Mourant
10. Caroline Hall
5. Sergei Sogokon
11. Alexander Mourant
6. Thomas Norman
12. Jooj Duquemin
Exhibition Schedule June Mark Guest with guest artist Donna Fleming Hall 25 May – 22 June (sculpture in limestone, marble and granite. Seascapes in oil, graphite and charcoal) Caroline Hall 23 June – 13 July (paintings and photography) July CCAI Summer Exhibition 30 June – 28 July (mixed show) Visit www.ccagalleriesinternational.com for further details
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A HANDS-ON APPROACH TO NATURE MIKE STENTIFORD pays tribute to the Jersey Conservation Volunteers IT was back in the early 1980’s when the, then Island Development Committee (IDC) modestly financed the creation of a voluntary conservation workforce. Impressed by one of Jersey’s first-ever fund-raising beach cleans, successfully carried out by the Young Ornithologist’s Club, the department quickly realised the future potential of an active and voluntary helpline for nature. At the time, conservation was in its infancy, but a highly successful media ‘recruitment drive’ rapidly drew response from scores of willing islanders. Almost before anyone could say ‘pass the billhook’, the Jersey Conservation Volunteers (JCV) came into official being. Within a matter of weeks, a diverse programme of tasks had been planned and implemented with each one directed towards improving the lot of local wildlife and their respective habitats. Some 40-odd years later and the JCV are still mustering the troops and regularly ‘doing their bit’ wherever needed in this green and pleasant Island of ours. Undoubtedly, the long-term results emanating from this voluntary group have delivered huge dividends to the Island, to its landscape and to much of its threatened wildlife.
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Whether improving the diverse function of water meadows, woodlands, maritime headlands or reed beds, the supervised end- product of each task is constantly being recognised for its high-end environmental values. Being acutely aware of the sensitivity of landscape, tasks are carried out solely between the months of October and April; essentially responsible start and cut-off dates that react to the seasonal schedules of wildlife. Due to the brevity of each monthly task - no more than two hours on a Sunday morning - their supervised structure offers convenient appeal to volunteers of every age and ability. Although youth now forms the majority base-core for the workforce, age certainly presents no barrier when it comes to determined hands-on engagement. Proof of its popularity can best be judged by the 640 volunteers currently registered on the JCV data base. While most tasks are fairly routine and straightforward, there are occasions where demand for excess muscle-power becomes more essentially desirable. Whatever the scale of demands, the standard reward of home baked cookies at task-end has a devious way of regularly teasing out an impressive and appreciative attendance.
The principal beneficiaries of these monthly activities are the States of Jersey Department of the Environment, The National Trust for Jersey and Trees for Life. Between October 2016 and April of this year, some 237 man hours were registered by the Department of the Environment alone. Similarly, in the first three months of this year, 175 hours of people-power were freely made available to The National Trust for Jersey. Each of the agencies heartily agree that the results of these voluntary winter conservation tasks not only greatly enhance scores of habitats, but go a remarkably long way in providing a much needed helping hand to the Island’s biodiversity. It would be truthful to say that in relation to no-cost human resources, the now well established Jersey Conservation Volunteers is a body fully deserving of both serious political acclaim and of full public appreciation. For anyone wishing to discover a fitness-plus way of helping our natural environment, then adding your name to their data base - either by visiting the JCV website or contacting environmentenquiries@gov.je could be the perfect way of doing so.
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Are you sitting comfortably? IF you are in the market for new workspace furniture but you are concerned about sustainability, there’s good news: advances in sustainable materials and credible certification programs are making it easier than ever to find greener options and avoid adding synthetic chemicals to our interiors. Whether you’re looking to kit out your home workspace or to update a whole office, you’ll naturally consider ergonomics, materials, colour, quality, and cost. You may also want to use furniture to express your personal or corporate style. But what if it’s your style to create a healthy space that’s contributing to a healthy planet? You’ll need to think about the entire life cycle of the piece, taking into account the resources used to make it, the energy costs associated with transporting it, and the ease of disposal. At Panther, we stock a range of solutions that are designed for the wellbeing of the user without compromising on reduced environmental impact. The perfect example of a Panther product to tick all the green boxes is the Mirus chair by UK manufacturer - Comfort Europe. Their ergonomic seating range offers a variety of functional task chairs designed to not only offer complete ergonomic adjustment and support for the user, but also exceed sustainability standards across the sector. Using up to 84% recycled content in the manufacturing process and with the end product offering up to 98% recyclability, the Mirus is the epitome of a cradle-to-cradle product. Ideal for discerning upcyclers and recyclers.
With a selection of frames, finishes and accessories and a choice of mesh, leather and fabric upholstery options – including Camira’s popular Xtreme range - you can unleash your creativity by customizing your own bespoke office chair. Xtreme is a modern crepe weave fabric made from 100% recycled polyester, which diverts waste from landfill and saves virgin raw materials, so you know that almost every part of your chair has minimal impact of the environment. Materials we bring into our interiors can cause serious and seriously damaging – air pollution. Some synthetic materials or material treated with synthetic substances can release toxic chemicals into the air. Comfort’s chairs are GREENGUARD Certified which gives assurance that products designed for use in indoor spaces meet strict chemical emissions limits, which contribute to the creation of healthier interiors. Going green has enormous advantages – it’s worth the time, effort and investment to make sure you give your furniture the best chance to work with and for you, and for generations to come.
MEDIA SALES EXECUTIVE RURAL - Jersey Country Life magazine would like to hear from experienced and well connected media sales professionals who have an empathy for the magazine's countryside and cultural range of subjects and a proven sales record.
Please contact: acrosby@live.co.uk in the first instance. RURAL Summer 2017 - 73
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Nydiams, the intermediary between farmer and processor
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SMALL IS THE NEW BIG What is a fair price for the hard work of the coffee producer? ‘Trade, not aid’ is what coffee bean farmers need in order to achieve a sustainable income. By concentrating on the quality of a product, the end consumer can encourage and sustain small, primary food producers, believes coffee merchant DAVID WARR THE last half century has seen unprecedented deflation in the price of food and clothing when measured against average household income. Technological improvements in both processing and growing techniques has resulted in exponential growth in yields. On the other hand, the computer chip has replaced labour in an inexorable race toward ever cheaper forms of production. Supermarkets in turn have completely changed the dynamics of the retail environment. The result is that the ‘real’ cost of goods has become hidden to the end consumer. We only get an occasional glimpse of what is really going on when, for example, dairy farmers complain about the price they are getting for milk, or disgruntled suppliers become exasperated about having to subsidise promotions. My industry, coffee, has much the same problem. There are few people who truly understand the cost of production and it’s not until you visit the producers that you get some inkling as to how fine the line is between just surviving and having a sustainable business. It was all brought home to me a few years ago when I visited a small town just outside of Bogota in Colombia. We initially met with the coffee exporter. Their offices are much like any here in Jersey: plenty of desks and computer screens. There they were trading coffee on world markets and keeping a track of inward and outward deliveries, fulfilling orders whilst at the same time ensuring they were getting sufficient coffee in from their network of producers. It’s quite obvious where the real money is being made at origin. Subsequently we went out into the countryside to see the farms and the start of the supply chain. We met Pablus, picking ripe coffee cherries in a heavy jumper to stop being bitten to death by bugs. His rate of pay was determined by the volume of cherries he picked; not sure if that equates to what we would recognise as a minimum wage, but then so many of these things are quite vague in this part of the world. We then met with Nydiams. She acts as an intermediary between the producers and the processing factory. The processor will tell her what volume they require and the price they are most likely willing to pay, Nydiams in turn buys the coffee from the individual producers. The better the quality the better the price. What she can really offer,
Small coffee plantations are run as family enterprises however, is dictated by the price of coffee on world markets something over which no one has any control. Here is the nub of the problem. What is a fair price for the hard work of the coffee producer? They’ve nurtured their plants, they’ve picked the crop, they’ve pulped the coffee cherries, they’ve dried the parchment coffee and finally they’ve made the arduous journey into town with their coffee and Nydiams has told them how much they’ll get. There is zero negotiation. They take their hard-earned cash to the local store and with it they purchase the sugar, butter, flour etc they need to live on. The price they get for their coffee will determine what quantity of these products they will be able to take home. It’s the equivalent of the ‘heat or eat’ debate we have in the UK, but of course they only have the one coffee crop; that is why the time between crops is known as the ‘thin’ period, when the producer has little money and is waiting for the next crop. Starvation in the coffee lands is not unknown.
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Schemes like Fairtrade give some support, but all producers will tell you it’s trade not aid they really want. We, the consumer, have become so far removed from the concept of ‘cost of production’ and are so used to the ‘supermarket deal’ and cheap food that we no longer reflect upon the impact of our purchasing decisions. Increasingly, traceability is changing consumer buying habits. A well-known UK supermarket, for instance, tells us that all their eggs are now ‘free range’. As a result, animal welfare has improved, which is better for everyone. In an industry like coffee, getting that message across is more challenging, especially when it is dominated by four coffee roasting behemoths whose interests are more ‘brand’ than ‘producer’ led. However. the rise of the artisan coffee roaster and many others like us are slowly changing the dynamic.
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We can’t beat the volatility of the Coffee futures market, but we can pay a premium for great quality. Although it sounds a tad trite, this is a ‘win, win’ proposition. The consumer gets a better product and the producer gets a more sustainable price and by necessity takes greater care of their environment. Once great quality has been established in the mind of the consumer, there is no turning back. The growth in the speciality coffee market is a testament to this fact. Local producers find themselves in a similar position when it comes to getting sustainable prices for produce. By promoting quality and applying the highest standards of environmental management, there is a future for the small producer. To borrow a well-worn phrase, ‘small is the new big’.
Pablus, picking coffee 'cherries' in a jumper to avoid insect bites
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CARING FOR THE LAND Peter Barette makes fields fit for purpose MOST people strolling through fields in the countryside might notice the birds flying overhead or watch as a rabbit bolts for cover in the undergrowth. Peter Barette, who has spent a lifetime maintaining fields and hedgerows, notices things of a rather different nature. ‘Walking around a field is the only way for me to really see what is needed to make sure the land is capable of growing the best hay or haylage, or if it is able to provide nutritious grass to feed livestock,’ he said. Peter, of PB Field and Paddock Maintenance, believes it makes sense to look after grazing land all year round but particularly now when the seeds from weeds blow onto the land and start germinating.
Peter suggests topping or cutting the grass during June or July to ensure younger grasses grow. This also strengthens their root systems. ‘If fields are really tired then I can reseed it in September or October or there is the option of overseeding it,’ he said. ‘And, if plenty of grazing is available, it might make sense to grow hay or haylage on the land. Then I can make it as you want it.’ Please contact Peter Barette on 07797 716 646 or email peterbarette@hotmail.co.uk for all enquiries.
‘Every field is different and, if you are grazing horses, then it can soon become “horse sick” with clumps of grass that they won’t eat, poached areas near the gates, and weeds such as thistles, docks and buttercups,’ he said. To prevent this from happening Peter suggests starting a management programme beginning with harrowing fields in March and April to aerate the soil. He often takes soil samples to Howard Davis Farm to have them analysed so that he can ensure that he is using the correct fertilizer on the land and he also seeks advice about what weedkillers should be used. ‘These days sprays are tailormade to target specific weeds,’ he explained before emphasising that both fertilizers and weedkillers needed rain to work effectively.
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BOOKS AVAILABLE THROUGH RURAL MAGAZINE AND CROSBY MEDIA AND PUBLISHING LTD Just published:
ITALY'S OTHER ISLAND The Italian Community and the Making of modern Jersey, by Hamish Marett-Crosby This book is an affectionate look at the Italian influence on Jersey tourism from the start of the large influx in the 1950s to the 1970s when they were seen as the public face of the Island’s catering industry. This is observed largely through Italian eyes and the result is a snapshot, not only of the times, but also of the legacy left to the Island by these young men who came to Jersey during this period. Price: £10
SIX STEPS BACK TO THE LAND By last year's speaker in the 'What's for Dinner?' series, Colin Tudge. The author coined the expression 'Enlightened Agriculture' to describe agriculture that is 'expressly designed to provide everyone, everywhere, with food of the highest standard, nutritionally and gastronomically, without wrecking the rest of the world. In the book he explains how we can achieve that and have truly sustainable, resilient and productive farms. Price: £15
DO SOURDOUGH By last year's What's for Dinner?' speaker, Andrew Whitley The author, a baker for over 30 years, reveals how the slow fermentation that's key to real sourdough can happen while we're asleep or at work. Whit his simple method you can make this wonderful bread at homer. Price: £9
Prices inclusive of postage or delivery within Jersey. For further details phone: 01534 865334 or e-mail:editorial@ruraljersey.co.uk 78 -
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BOOK PAGES:Layout 1 05/06/2017 15:47 Page 2
BOOKS AVAILABLE THROUGH RURAL MAGAZINE AND CROSBY MEDIA AND PUBLISHING LTD A COMMUNITY IN TRANSITION The Catholic Church in Jersey in Modern Times, by Alasdair Crosby This book tells the story of the Catholic Church in Jersey in the modern era during which, like all other institutions, it has been buffeted by the excoriating winds of change and of changing attitudes. The book contains sections by the past and present Catholic Deans in Jersey, Canon David Mahy and Mgr Nicholas France MBE. Price: £12
TITANIC The Channel Island Connections, by Alasdair Crosby This book brings together for the first time the stories of those Channel Islanders who were on board the Titanic when she sank in the North Atlantic on her maiden voyage almost exactly 105 years ago in 1912.There were 29 Channel Islanders on board on board - ten of them had a clear connection with Jersey - there were passengers and crew from both Islands. The book is not so much about the rich and famous passengers whose stories have often been told in books and films, as about ordinary Islanders whose lives were suddenly caught up in the unexpected disaster. Price: £10.
Prices inclusive of postage or delivery within Jersey. For further details phone: 01534 865334 or e-mail: editorial@ruraljersey.co.uk
DO YOU HAVE A BOOK YOU WANT TO WRITE AND PUBLISH? If so, we would like to hear from you. We are a Jersey company, the publishers of RURAL magazine. We invite would-be authors to contact us. We can provide assistance in every stage of preparing a manuscript for publication, from initial help in writing it to distributing the finished published book – writing or ghost-writing, editing, proof-reading, design, printing, storage and distribution. All books are different; all authors’ requirements are different. So we provide a bespoke service for all writers who want to see their original idea in print. For an initial discussion without any commitment, please contact: Crosby Media and Publishing Ltd, 01534 865334; alasdair.crosby@ruraljersey.co.uk
CLASSIFIED SUMMER 2017:Layout 1 03/06/2017 16:12 Page 1
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MIKE END PIECE SUMMER:Layout 1 02/06/2017 16:06 Page 1
WALKING BACK TO MINDFULNESS Mike Stentiford has the last word SO, politics and the great outdoors aren’t quite as far removed from each other as one might have imagined eh? Proof that a good walk can sometimes result in the ‘right steps being taken’ gained top level significance in April when Theresa May took a snap decision to quick-call an even snappier election. Obviously, a serious deep-thinking walkabout in the shadow of Snowdonia provided a eureka moment for the British Prime Minister whose grandiose clarity of thought evidently matched the grandeur and clarity of the inspiring Welsh landscape.
Not surprisingly, perhaps, research states that a route taken close to the sea stimulates the senses considerably more than a likewise hike in the countryside. Collectively, the sight and sound of water, research claims, has the add-on ability to soothe, mend and to evaluate all manner of inner concerns.
We should all, of course, now be aware of the many benefits to the human condition derived when out and about on a good walk. Few, indeed, could argue that an appreciation of our natural surroundings acts as an undisputed conduit to our quality of life.
It would, indeed, be difficult to argue the fact that for anyone in need of mindful recovery, our very own coastal headlands and cliff paths provide as much potent mental and physical wellbeing as any doctor’s well meaning pill-popping prescription.
In addition to stabilizing our mood-swings and uplifting the spirit, the end result of a walk in the fresh air is widely renowned as a guarantor to a night’s sleep honed to perfection.
For all-round therapeutic contentment, therefore, the proximity of a coastal landscape can work big-time wonders.
There’s probably as many learned books, surveys and references pertaining to the benefits of walking as there are on books, surveys and references referring to the plethora of walking routes. Without exception, they all extol the merits of a comfortable pair of walking boots, an adequately provisioned backpack and a vista worthy of exploratory investigation. If the latter is a reminder of what Jersey has in abundance, then it’s also a reminder of what we, as Islanders, should never, for one moment, take for granted. In a recent report, undertaken on behalf of the National Trust, the mental and physical benefits acquired during a measured ramble are proven to be reflective, stimulating and self-analysing. Ask any ten passive walkers what they each gain on a personal level while striding out along any given pathway and the answers will inevitably be identical.
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Top of the beneficial ‘mind lists’ are a sense of calmness, better self- awareness and, if the route is a familiar one, associated past and pleasant memories.
RURAL Summer 2017
Surrounded as we are by the Channel waters, this is a top-prize bonus we can all take advantage of during times of duress or excess workload. While landscape has its own premier part to play, walking with nature, unsurprisingly, shares equal top-billing as a highly welcome and hugely recommended companion. Furthermore, when landscape and nature join forces, then all of our senses are apt to go into serious overdrive when, more often than not, they surpass every level of expectation. What all this research tells us is that for those fortunate enough to be in reach of a coastline, the benefits to body and soul are truly priceless. So, taking into account the excess of maritime attributes at our instant disposal, my own modest interpretation would be that ‘thinking the thought while walking the walk’ clearly indicates that we could all be far more ‘mind wealthier’ than most!
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