Parish photos exhibition makes way for Guernsey maps

This year’s outdoor exhibition in the grounds of the Priaulx Library will see the parish photos replaced by maps – the first time back to back exhibitions have been held in the garden.

The Parish Memories exhibition, which has been on display since July, has been seen by thousands of people. The prints will be taken down later today and replaced by Martin Morgan’s cartographic history of the Channel Islands which is being launched at the library next week.

‘Parish Memories has proved to be very popular. In June, we had 1,481 visitors but once the exhibition was up, this increased to 2,100 in July and 2,265 in August. Additionally hundreds more would have come into the gardens but not ventured inside the library itself. Without Ravenscroft’s incredible and long-standing support, we wouldn’t be able to share some of these amazing images to so many,’ said acting chief librarian Sue Laker.

‘We hope people will take the opportunity to come and see the photos before they are taken down and I am delighted that we can use the space immediately again for our next exhibition – the first time we have done back to back exhibitions.’

Over the course of the summer visitors have come from Belgium, Germany, New Zealand and Australia and the library visitor’s book has been full of praise. The Lieutenant-Governor also viewed the exhibition when he visited the library in July.

‘Every year, the team at the Priaulx Library manages to put together a series of fascinating images that give a real insight into island life. This year’s exhibition featured churches, important buildings, parish fetes and iconic scenery. Hearing some of the feedback indicates how interested non-islanders are in Guernsey’s history. Ravenscroft is delighted that we can continue our support of the Priaulx Library to encourage as many people as possible to visit this wonderful place,’ said Toby Peatfield, director of stockbroking at Ravenscroft.

The exhibition in the gardens will be taken today. The library is open from 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday but there is access to the gardens at all times through the gate from Candie Gardens.