Guernsey leaders reflect on cost-of-living crisis in Christmas messages

Lt Gen Richard Cripwell said it had been a "remarkable year" for Guernsey

The bailiff and lieutenant governor of Guernsey have praised charities and emergency services in their Christmas messages.

The Bailiff Richard McMahon said some islanders would not be as fortunate as others this year.

Lt Gen Richard Cripwell, the Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey, said: "We should do what we can to help them."

He said it had been a "remarkable year" for Guernsey but challenges remained.

"For all of the good fortune that we have, there are those who are less fortunate and we should do what we can to help them," he said.

"I'm acutely conscious there will be people in emergency services, the hospital and police who will be at work over the Christmas period helping keep all of us safe and well.

"I would ask everybody to think of those people who are doing so much to look after us at Christmas."

Bailiff Richard McMahon praised charities for supporting islanders in need

Mr McMahon said the cost-of-living crisis presented many challenges for the island.

"I pay tribute to all those charities who will do their level best to support those who will not receive a gift for whatever reason.

"Who knows what's around the corner?

"We've got to do our level best as a community to guard against price increases to make the most of what we can."

'Community spirit'

Reflecting on 2023, both leaders said the Island Games and the King's Coronation were highlights.

Mr McMahon said: "I heard so many people saying it was the best Island Games ever.

"The key was the island got that sense of community spirit again."

Lt Gen Cripwell added: "It said so much that is good about Guernsey and the Bailiwick."