Guernsey Trees for Life Tree & Woodcraft Fair

Guernsey Trees for life held a sunny event at Government House celebrating all things arboricultural.

The sun shone and the rain stayed away and the people came. A wonderful steady stream of islanders of every age came to enjoy learning about trees, about Asian hornets, about woodturning and pollinators. They talked to people who made wooden tent pegs and wooden rakes, a new wooden surfing aid, willow baskets and any number of wood turners who make trinket holders and decorations from driftwood. 

The children made hats from leaves with La Societe and gobbled delicious mallowy smores with Wild Guernsey and the scouts. They also did a little creative therapy with the wonderful Nicky Shaw, wrapping sticks with coloured wools and glittery jewels and thinking about all the things they are thankful for. Then the little ones played on the woodchip pile and the big one's honed their tree climbing skills by climbing the tower with Outdoor Guernsey. 

And for the many tree contractors kept busy across the island all year long, there was the tree climbing competition. A.J. Mahy had put up a very generous prize for the fastest climber to ring the bell at the top and they all came out of the woodwork (lol) to try to claim that very sought-after chainsaw. The picture on the left shows the prize winners. 

From Left to right: Beau Flouquet - who won the boobie prize for being last and looks super happy about it; Jake Le Poidevin- 1st place; Ryan Herbert- 2nd place and Ric David- 3rd place

His Excellency and Mrs Cripwell were so pleased to see such a fantastic event in the grounds. Well organised and well attended. A wonderful day and hopefully everybody who came, learnt something new and, better still, will sign up to membership with Guernsey trees for Life.