From Tony Allchurch, development officer, Jersey Pétanque Association.
THE Weighbridge is an open space, open in aspect and also open in its accessibility to anyone who wishes to use it.

And for the present, how it is used is limited only by the imagination of those who have recognised the distinctive ambience that it provides.

If you question the value of the Weighbridge to the community, consider the Condor Lunchtime Pétanque League.

Around 150 working people have been playing pétanque competitively during these summer months, in 28 teams drawn from local businesses, professions and government departments.

All were novices before the league was created and now they have discovered a sport that challenges them, rewards their efforts and provides them with great entertainment.

And so have school children, Cub packs, special needs groups, other clubs and societies, even visiting politicians, and teams from towns twinned with Island parishes.

The Jersey Pétanque Association is committed to developing the sport of pétanque in the Island and the Weighbridge is a superb facility for this purpose.

Until the day comes when we are told that the game is over and the Weighbridge is to be covered in bricks and glass and concrete, we will continue to celebrate having the use of a treasured corner of the town that makes passers-by stop and stare and wish that they had the time to join those that are so obviously enjoying themselves.

That is why we like the Weighbridge the way that it is now and we applaud the foresight of WEB in providing St Helier with such a unique resource.

It is the very minimal development of the area that is its strength and which maximises the opportunities to use the space innovatively.

It doesn’t need further enhancement with flower tubs and street furniture when people are filling the space with their recreation, sport, and entertainment.

If you want to know more about pétanque and the Condor Lunchtime League, contact me at tony@allchurch.je. New teams are always welcome to join the league.