JERSEY triathletes began the Island’s participation in the Queen’s baton relay this morning as part of the build-up to next year’s Commonwealth Games.

Members of the Jersey Triathlon Club set off at 8 am carrying the baton from St Catherine’s Breakwater via Mont Orgueil Castle to St Martin’s School.

The baton will carry the Queen’s message to be read out at the opening ceremony of the Games, which are being held in Melbourne from 15 to 26 March.

It began its journey from Buckingham Palace on Commonwealth Day, 14 March, and will be taken throughout the Commonwealth before travelling around Australia to Melbourne.

It is in Jersey today and tomorrow and will be carried around the Island by a number of groups, including representatives of the Commonwealth Games Association of Jersey member sports.

It will also receive a symbolic welcome from the Bailiff, Sir Philip Bailhache, and the parish Constables.