From Jeff Le Caudey.
RECENTLY there have been many opinions expressed regarding Liberation Day and whether there should there be an extra day off. Well, may I throw a completely different hat into the ring and cause some confusion?

On 8 May – yes, the 8th – 1945, late morning / early afternoon I was part of a large crowd in the Royal Square. Why we were there, what rumours we had heard, I now have no idea, but I was nearly 16, I was there and what followed I will never ever forget.

Winston Churchill’s speech, including the ‘Our dear Channel Islands are to be freed’, came over loudspeakers. Then came a sight not seen for five years. They raised the Union Jack. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the square – nor here, right now.

I can’t remember if the National Anthem was played. I think so. But I do remember seeing and hearing a lone German officer striding down Mulcaster Street. We ignored him and he us – the war was over. To this day the sight of a fluttering British flag has a strangely warm effect. It’s like being waved at by an old, valued and trusted friend.

As we stood there, I remember thinking to myself, I will never ever forget 8 May. So can I have Saturday 8 May off as well, please?
10 St Helier Court,