Group to live, eat and breathe the life of the ‘Tommy’

Sunday 07 August 2016

The 'Tommies of Liberation Force 135' will be back in action at Elizabeth Castle this weekend.

Members of the Channel Islands WWII Living History Group will be encamped on the Castle Green today and tomorrow, living, eating and breathing the life of the 'Tommy'.

Visitors to the castle will see them in action eating combo rations, clearing mines and barbed wire and gathering together German arms and ammunition. They'll also be taking part in a flag raising ceremony when the original proclamation will be read out that announced the end to the Occupation and the Tommies of Force 135 temporarily took charge of the Island.

Sites Curator Chris Addy said: "Living History is at the heart of the visitor experience at all six Jersey Heritage sites, which are brought to life through characters who tell fascinating stories about the Island and its people. Our aim is to offer visitors an authentic flavour of the past through interesting and entertaining performances that enrich the experience, making it memorable and inspiring.

"The Force 135 re-enactment weekend is the first of its kind, making it an exciting addition to the wealth of 18th century events taking place at Elizabeth Castle throughout the year. We plan to keep adding new living history characters and experiences to our programme.” 

Organiser Simon Dodkins said: “We will encourage the public to join in during open parts of the display, explaining and demonstrating the equipment, weapons and clothing of the period.”