Jonny Labey announced as Mr Battle 2017

Monday 12 June 2017

Former Eastenders actor, and seasoned Grouville 'battler', Jonny Labey, will be Miss Battle's escort this August.

Mr Labey will be sharing a float with Beaulieu student Evie Bertram who has just been crowned Miss Battle 2017.

The 17-year old, who is currently Head Girl and lives in St. Lawrence, was one of 17 contestants hoping to become the 55th holder of the title. She will be accompanied on both the day and moonlight parades by runner-up,18-year-old Rowan Chateau.  

Pictured: Miss Battle 2017 Evie Bertram will share her float with former Eastenders actor Jonny Labey.

The title of Miss Junior Battle went to St. Martin's Primary School student Catherine Richford, who was one of eight young girls competing for the title. The nine-year-old is following in her sister Lucy Anne's footsteps, who was was the 2016 title holder.

She was elected by a judging panel which included Team GB Archer and former Miss Battle of Flowers 2009, Lucy O’Sullivan, local charity campaigner Kevin Pamplin, Jim Hollywood, Honorary Chairman of Jersey Alzheimer’s Association, which is this year’s Battle designated charity along with Battle stalwart, Mark Labey. 

Pictured: From left to right, Miss Battle's Consort, Rowan Chateau, Miss Junior Battle Catherine Richford and Miss Battle Evie Bertram.

The three girls were crowned as part of a ceremony at the Jersey Arts Centre on Sunday evening which started the countdown to this year's battle. Miss Battle of Flowers 2016, Aimee Le Brun was in attendance to share some of the highlights of her year. She also reminded her successor to make the most of every opportunity that comes her way as Miss Battle.

The evening concluded with the announcement of Mr Battle's name, which was revealed to be Jersey born actor and dancer, Jonny Labey. The 24-year former Eastenders actor and winner of the ITV1 show Dance Dance Dance is no stranger to Battle. He was involved in the Parish of Grouville entry for many years and is passionate about the community event.

Commenting after the show, Jackie Donald, Events Director for Jersey Battle of Flowers, said: “I have been involved in the competition for a number of years and can honestly say that this year’s entrants were exceptional.

"Each and every girl, from the youngsters to the main competition entrants all showed the attributes to be the winner, displaying enthusiasm, maturity and passion not only for their role at Battle but equally as Island Ambassadors. Congratulations to our winners but thank you and well done for everyone who took part this year”.