Elizabeth Castle needs your love!

Tuesday 14 March 2017

Jersey Heritage is launching 'Love your castle' - a new campaign to encourage people to re-discover Elizabeth Castle.

It aims to raise awareness of both the historical, and environmental value, of the fortress, as well as money to fund the first restoration project at the Barracks Hospital building. Two free public open days will take place at the historic landmark: a family fun day on April 9 and another event later in the year in October.

Sponsored by Loyds Bank, the ‘Love Your Castle’ open days will offer Living History displays, behind-the-scenes tours, music, interactive arts and crafts and a genuine Jersey Market.

Jon Carter, Chief Executive of Jersey Heritage, said: "This year our open days are a chance to see behind the scenes in areas normally closed to the public, that in time we would like to open up. Initially we are focusing on the Hospital block, which is a fascinating building and will act as a showcase for what we hope to achieve over the longer term. While it’s immensely popular with tourists, Elizabeth Castle is less visited by residents and we want Islanders to get to know it again."

Later in the year, and with the support of law firm Ogier, local schoolchildren will be involved in a fun educational programme on site involving interactive learning.  

On 6 September, the Hawksford Castle Chase, a new sporting event sponsored by corporate, private client and funds business Hawksford, will see teams of two runners competing in a relay race from West Park to the Parade Ground at the Castle and back. The sponsorship money raised will fund the first restoration project at the Barracks Hospital building. 

Ed Sallis, chair of the Jersey Heritage Trust, added, "Elizabeth Castle is an iconic symbol of Jersey’s rich and varied past and we want to enrich the public’s understanding of its history.  We collectively believe this is an opportunity for everyone to rediscover Elizabeth Castle and help us start a new chapter in its story."

Deputy Murray Norton, Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture commented: "I am delighted to be involved in the launch of this campaign. We are working in close collaboration, laying strong foundations for the longer term. I very much hope that the people of Jersey will take time to visit the castle this year, rediscover its delights and see the potential for a future that respects its past and celebrates its present."