Guernsey to host Red Cross history event

Guernsey will mark its 80th anniversary of the International Red Cross SS Vega first visiting in December 1944 to deliver "desperately needed aid"

An event will be held to celebrate Guernsey's "long standing relationship" with the Red Cross.

Guernsey will mark its 80th anniversary of the International Red Cross SS Vega first visiting in December 1944 to deliver "desperately needed aid".

It supplied more than 119,000 standard food parcels on its first visit.

Paul Le Pelley, a local historian, said the British Red Cross helped the island when it faced "increasing deprivations".

He said: "This desperate situation was overcome by the arrival of aid from the International Red Cross in the shape of the SS Vega.

"This particular ship made several visits to the islands between the 27 December, 1944 and June 1945, bringing much needed food and medical supplies to the islands.

"But the International Red Cross did much more than just bring Red Cross parcels to the islands in the last few months of the war as many other services beneficial to Channel Islanders were carried out by the International Red Cross."

The SS Vega supplied more than 119,000 standard food parcels on its first visit to Guernsey

Alongside food, the charity provided the island with medical supplies, cigarettes and clothing for children.

The charity is made up of three parts: the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world, including the British Red Cross.

Two Red Cross representatives will provide a presentation about the ongoing work of the charity at the event.

Deputy Chris Blin, the President of the Overseas Aid & Development Commission, said the event would be insightful about the past and present.

"The history of the support provided by the Red Cross to Guernsey is fascinating and Paul's presentation will help to bring this to life," he said.

"Obviously, the work of the Red Cross across the globe continues.

"For me, it will be just as important to gain an insight into the current work of this well respected organisation and understand how we can help."

A display of artefacts relating to the SS Vega will be on display, loaned by Guernsey Museums and the German Occupation Museum.

The Guernsey Overseas Aid & Development Commission will host the event on Tuesday 5 March at Les Cotils Centre from 19:00 GMT.