Despite being retired, 69-year-old Tony Beaumont dedicates much of his time to the Battle of Flowers, as the parade’s arena construction manager. He lives with his wife Irene in St Clement.

What does your role involve?
Planning a programme of works and ensuring that the Battle arena is built and ready for the day of the parades. It takes just over two weeks to build and a week to dismantle.

How long have you done it for?
On and off for about 15 years, but I have been involved with other parts of the Battle for much longer.

Why do you do it?
There is a great sense of community spirit and involvement, with so many people working to put on a great show. It is something that is unique.

Anyone who helps you to carry out your role successfully?
There is a team which I strongly rely on, Richard Beaumont (my son) and Toot Tanner (my nephew).

Prior to carrying out this role were you involved in Battle in any other ways?
Yes, over the years I have been part of float design and building. Also I was a judge for quite a number of years.

Where will you be during the parade?
In the arena checking that all the equipment, stand layout etc is working properly and if not carrying out any repairs or changes required.

What do you like about the Battle of Flowers?
The way it brings local people together; the comradeship that has built up over many years; and the good friends that I see and natter with regularly.

Why do you think that the parade still has an important role to play in Jersey life?
Mainly these days because of the way it pulls together all of those dedicated people – the board of directors, the various committees, the exhibitors and their huge number of volunteers, without whom there would be no Battle. Although it no longer brings the same numbers of visitors to the Island, there is still not another show anywhere in the world of its kind that is as good. It is something that Jersey should be extremely proud of.
Sadly though there seems to be a general lack of interest from the people who perhaps financially stand to benefit most – hotels, shops and local businesses. If the Battle is to continue it will need more support from these sources.