Goodbye to a Battle legend

Monday 08 February 2021

The Battle of Flowers Association has led tributes to an "loved and respected" islander, who gave around 50 years' service to the annual flower festival as volunteer and later Chair, after he lost his battle with cancer.

The Association's current Chair, Margaret Fitzgerald, announced the passing of "Battle stalwart" Tony Perkins last night.

"I don't need to tell you how much Tony contributed to Battle life; for so many of us we share the memories and stories over the many years – from his days as a volunteer with the Parish of St Clement, in the 1960s culminating in his Chairmanship of Battle on three occasions during the period 1995 and 2015," she said.

"Despite his 'retirement' Tony's passion, enthusiasm and commitment to Battle remained – he was always there as a sounding board to provide the Board, as a friend, his knowledge, experience and guidance – we may not always have agreed but his words of wisdom that "Battle is all about the community" has never wavered and one that we will continue to follow."

Continuing on a personal note, she continued: "...I am absolutely heartbroken at his loss: I have known Tony for many years and above all, will always value his friendship. Our long evenings discussing Battle and its importance to our life and what it means to Jersey's community will always remain with me; a sentiment that I know is shared with so many of you.

"Tony Perkins – we will all so miss your wisdom, your commitment, the laughs and good times but ultimately your passion – you were the face and voice of Battle for so many years and we will never forget.

"Our heartfelt condolences to Tony's nearest and dearest, of which there are many. Goodnight our dearest friend, sleep well in the knowledge that we will never forget you – please look down on us every August and continue to spread that genuine joy and enthusiasm."

The St. Clement Battle of Flowers Association - of which Tony was its longest serving Chair - also paid tribute .

"Tony wasn't just loved and respected by those of us at St. Clement but by the whole Battle community. He always took the time to visit exhibitors, show interest in their work and offer a listening ear or a word of advice," they recalled.

"The St. Clement team, parishioners and the island-wide Battle community will sorely miss Tony. He leaves behind an amazing legacy and we will work hard to build on this and ensure the Battle Tony loved returns to Victoria Avenue in full force as soon as possible.

"When asked what he considered to be the best thing about Battle, Tony said: 'Without a doubt, bringing everyone together and making life long friends.'

"Tony, we are proud to have had you as a lifelong friend. We'll never forget the passion and commitment you showed to our parish and Battle. May you rest in peace."