Easter ‘invasion’ a success

By Cheryl Latter

Winner Olivia, pictured with sister Caitlin, shared her eggs with the other children.

EASTER saw the reopening of The White House Hotel, with the occasion marked by the annual egg hunt.

The quiet calm of the hotel was shattered on Sunday morning when it was invaded by around 25 children and their helpers, all with one thing on their minds – chocolate.

Every year island children are joined by guests and visitors from Guernsey.

And the rain and hail didn’t put anyone off, with many braving the weather to take part in the yearly custom.

This year, to give the smaller ones a chance, there was an upper age limit of 10, but they were allowed help from older children and parents.

The children with the most eggs were awarded gift vouchers for the island shops.

Six-year-old Olivia Strachan has taken part in the egg hunt every year since she was a baby and this year she finally won.

‘We’ve come over every year since she was born,’ said her mother. ‘It’s an Easter family tradition. We have lots of friends who come with us.’

Olivia, from St Peter Port, won with a total of 21 eggs. Her four-year-old sister, Caitlin, put in a good effort of her own with 14 eggs.

Putting an age limit on the event meant that this year nobody had an unfair advantage and all the children got their fair share of chocolate. For those who didn’t do too well, winner Olivia generously shared her eggs with the little ones.

Not only is the hotel and Ship Restaurant open, but the Shell Beach cafe is also up and running again. The Mermaid Tavern is now open every day and serving its new menu.

During the storms of the past few weeks, the island has suffered some damage along the west coast, mainly to the harbour wall and Rosaire steps.

The outdoor staff has worked hard to get everything cleared up in time for the start of the season and visitors will barely notice the effects of the recent gales.

This week Herm’s seasonal staff arrived, which means the island’s population has trebled overnight.

For islanders at least, summer is finally here.