WWII charity collection mines back in action

Saturday 08 June 2024

A trio of WWII-era mines that have been used to raise thousands of pounds for a maritime charity have been refurbished, after Ports of Jersey offered to help those manning the unique collection boxes in the island.

The mines – located at West Park, St Helier Marina and Gorey – are among dozens across the British Isles which are used as collection boxes for the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society.

The UK-based maritime charity raises money to support shipwreck survivors, as well as the families of those lost at sea.

Pictured: The society supports shipwreck survivors, as well as the widows and orphans of those lost at sea.

The three local mines have raised more than £8,500 since records began in 2000.

The society’s honorary agent Captain Bob Asplet, who has serviced the Jersey mines for the past 27 years with his wife Norma, has recently had to stand down due to ill health.

Former harbourmaster Captain Brian Nibbs temporarily took over responsibilities.

Responding to a plea for assistance to refurbish the mines, current harbourmaster Captain Bill Sadler offered the services of marine apprentice Adam Hart under the supervision of marine operations manager Fleur Moisan.

Pictured: The three mines have raised more than £8,500 since records began in 2000.

Captain Nibbs said: “Adam has done an excellent job in between his other duties, and the mines – now in pristine condition, bearing in mind that they are of WWII vintage – are back in position ready to resume collections.”

Captain Howard Le Cornu, another former harbourmaster, has accepted the position of honorary agent for Jersey and will be able to keep a constant weather eye on the mine at St Helier Marina as it is only 50 yards from his office window.