St. Martin’s Bonfire night raises £11,000 for Autism Jersey

Saturday 16 December 2017

The St. Martin’s Bonfire and fireworks night, which was attended by up to 5,000 people, has raised an "incredible" £11,000 for Autism Jersey.

The bonfire night is organised every year by the Gorey Fete Committee in St. Martin's field, opposite the school.

The Chairman of the management committee, Lester Richardson, said it was not an easy event to run due to being weather-dependent and also due to safety assessments with a bonfire and fireworks.

He added: "We’d like to thank everyone who makes it happen. The committee would like to thank Jersey Mutual for their continued support. Also all the volunteers who help as marshals and help with the car parking. We would also like to thank those who allow us to use their fields for parking the cars and setting off the fireworks.’

Eleven members of the committee, including its president, the Constable of St Martin Michel Le Troquer, handed over a cheque at a presentation at Autism Jersey’s office in St Helier this month, to hear more about the charity and how the money would be spent. The money will be used to fund the charity’s re-launched siblings group, which offers a space for brothers and sisters of children who have autism, as well as paying for items for the charity’s sensory equipment lending library.

Jackie Marsh, Autism Jersey trustee, said: "This is an incredible amount, and we can’t thank you enough."

Caroline Moody, Autism Jersey Fundraising and Marketing Manager, said: "We were delighted when the Gorey Fete Committee chose us this year - and we were lucky that the weather held on the night, which ensured its success. It was a really well run event and we are grateful to everyone who helped behind the scenes and to sponsors Jersey Mutual."

Pictured: Centre, Lester Richardson and Jersey Mutual general manager Roy Jeanne with members of the Gorey Fete Committee.