Select a region
If you live in the north of the island and are enthusiastic about the Battle of Flowers, you are invited to a public meeting to be held at St Martin's Public Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday 30 November.
This will be an opportunity to gauge support for a combined northern parishes entry and the formation of an exciting new association that would pool the talents of St. John, St. Martin and Trinity, as well as anyone else from outside those parishes who wants to get involved.
The meeting has been instigated by the Trinity association, who with dwindling numbers, have felt the need to widen their horizons and attract new supporters and volunteers, including those with construction skills.
Trinity Battle stalwart, Charlie Ahier, who came up with the idea of a northern parishes association, said that so far, the response was encouraging.
He explained that Trinity has the advantage of having permanent premises available at Bouley Bay to build a float - something which the other two parishes have lacked, and also has the benefit of a float chassis which could be used by a combined association.
The parish has been an entrant in the Battle of Flowers for well over 40 years and has had success with both its senior and junior floats. Last year there was a well-supported junior entry but no senior float due to a lack of constructors. However, the chassis was put to good use by the Battle of Flowers Association to parade a Beatles tribute band made up of local musicians.
Mr Ahier added: "The event has brought so much fun and friendship to so many people for more than 100 years. We would like to give people the opportunity to experience the challenge, community, and creativity that this wonderful event provides. It binds young and old, shy and extrovert, and people of all talents.
"It is a great way to make new friends, give a little back to the community, learn new skills, and have a great time being part of something bigger. There is a role or job for everyone within the Battle family. You can bring existing skills or learn new ones. You can bring Battle experience or bring enthusiasm for a new challenge. You can make a difference and help start a new chapter in your parish's Battle history.
"If you are interested in finding out more, if you love the idea and want to get involved then come along to the meeting. Let's get this plan off the ground together."
Anyone wanting more information ahead of the meeting can email northernparishesbof@gmail.com or phone Charlie Ahier on 07829855141
