Bergerac star urges government to buy war tunnels

John Nettles played the role of detective Jim Bergerac in 'Bergerac'

The star of the Jersey-set BBC television series Bergerac is calling for the Jersey War Tunnels (JWT) to be brought into public ownership.

The site in St Lawrence - built by the Nazis during their occupation of the island - was put up for sale last week for more than £5.5m.

John Nettles starred in two Bergerac episodes set at the tunnels, and has had books published on the Channel Islands' occupation during World War Two.

The Government of Jersey said it was "confident" whoever bought the site would "ensure... it continues to flourish".

Jersey War Tunnels collects, preserves and exhibits "thousands of unique artefacts", which tell the story of the occupation "through the eyes of those who lived through it"

Mr Nettles said his "gut instinct" was the government had a "duty" to buy the tunnels.

He said: "Because the Jersey War Tunnels are such an important, central, indeed iconic part of Jersey history, therefore it should be the States' responsibility, indeed duty, to take over the place."

Mr Nettles said the tunnels told a story that should not be forgotten.

"It can still be a place which is entertaining in the sense that it is interesting, but also a museum to remember what happened not only in the war tunnels themselves, but also what happened to the civilian population over here during the war."

Daisy Hill Real Estates Limited (DHRE), which owned the tunnels for more than 60 years, said it was seeking a buyer which would "propel JWT to the next level".

Minister for Sustainable Economic Development Kirsten Morel said the tunnels were a "very well-established and successful visitor attraction which has been owned by the same company for the last 60 years".

Deputy Morel added: "The owners have assured their staff and islanders that day-to-day operations will remain unchanged while they go through the sale process, and that thousands of visitors are expected in the coming months.

"I am confident that whoever purchases Jersey War Tunnels will ensure that this fantastic and important attraction continues to flourish.”