Jersey Battle of Flowers floats ‘received no additional funding’

BBC announcer Graham Gibson speaks in front of St Clement's float in a slaughterhouse. — Graham Gibson said it was important that the additional government funds were spent on “reviving” the Battle of the Flowers.

Several participants told the BBC that despite an increase in government subsidies, they had not received any additional financial support for the 2024 Flower Battle.

Ministers provided organisers with £270,000 for this year's event. 80% more than the £150,000 they agreed in 2023.

Pop stars Sam Ryder and Marti Pellow, as well as UK tribute band Queen, performed over the three days. Tickets cost between £10 and £35.

The organizers of the flower battle were asked for a statement.

Each of Jersey's 12 parishes was represented in this year's parade, including St. Clement (pictured).

St. Clement's float on Victoria Avenue during this year's parade — Each of Jersey's 12 parishes was represented in this year's parade, including St. Clement (pictured).

“We have not seen any particular increase in our grants,” said Graham Gibson, chairman of the St. Clement Battle of Flowers Association.

“But we have managed to keep our costs as low as possible. There are changes in the rules that make things easier.”

“I think it was important that the extra funds were spent on giving new impetus to the actual event, not just the flower parade – which is the highlight – but also the additional performances which are a major draw.”

“We know that people now want a lot for their money.”

Malcolm Lewis of the Jersey Hospitality Association said the changes to the Battle format were notable

Malcolm Lewis is interviewed — Malcolm Lewis of the Jersey Hospitality Association said the changes to the Battle format were notable

Malcolm Lewis, chairman of the Jersey Hospitality Association, agreed with the decision to book musical performances in addition to the traditional parade.

He said the event had “lost momentum” in recent years.

But after attending the Moonlight Parade, he called the changes implemented by organizer Russell Labey and his team “remarkable.”

“It was so busy, all ages were there and everyone was having a lot of fun,” said Lewis.

“I think the concert is an addition that makes the whole event even more attractive.

“It gives the float builders and the actual parades more momentum and enthusiasm, and I think we saw that this year.”

“The community spirit that went into building these floats was palpable. There is definitely a new momentum, energy and vibrancy. The float and parade elements will grow and improve over time.”

“And like I said, Russell has a five-year plan. This is only the first year.

“Can you imagine what it will be like in five years?”

“Let’s leave the flower battle to itself,” said Iris Fritz, who has taken part in the event several times in recent years.

Iris Fritz with the Victoria Avenue bike path in the background. — “Let’s leave the flower battle to itself,” said Iris Fritz, who has taken part in the event several times in recent years.

Local resident Iris Fritz did not believe the changes were an improvement.

She had been attending the Flower Battle for years and felt that the event had lost its identity with the introduction of a concert.

“For me that wasn't right at all because we have a lot of music festivals, which is great, it's fantastic that they exist.

“I'm not sure we need another one mixed in with the flower battle,” she said.

“Let’s leave the flower battle to itself, because that is what is unique about Jersey.

“We don't have that in Glastonbury. We have that in Jersey.”

“Let’s be loud and proud.”

MP Kirsten Morel signed the £270,000 government grant for the organisers of the Battle

MP Kirsten Morel in the Jersey government headquarters — MP Kirsten Morel signed the £270,000 government grant for the organisers of the Battle

“It's easy to look at the parade and think, 'This is the Battle of the Flowers,'” said Kirsten Morel, Jersey Islands MP and Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, who approved the £270,000 government grant.

“But I have experienced first-hand that working on the floats is not just about the parade, but about the months, even years, of work by community members of all ages between eight and 80.

“They come together, design the floats, build the floats and decorate them with flowers.

“That is where the true value of community lies.”