This Is Guernsey

By Aimee Le Cocq

(Picture by Brian Green)

HERM has topped a national newspaper’s holiday chart.

Sunday’s Observer recognised Herm as the ‘ultimate car-free break’ in the British Isles. An article highlighted it as a walker’s paradise and emphasised the island’s beaches as well as the White House Hotel and camping.

John Singer, who with his wife Julia took over the lease last year, was thrilled. ‘I’m delighted that we should be recognised,’ he said. ‘And coming top, that’s super. It’s really fantastic news.’

Mr Singer said he was looking forward to reading the article.

‘I think the changes we have seen in the last year are looking very positive. The motivation here is excellent and the island is looking more pristine than I have seen it in a long while. I’m delighted that should be recognised through the article.’

Director of hospitality Jonathan Watson said the island was trying to raise its car-free profile this year by restricting quad bike and tractor use and operating an electric vehicle to reduce noise.

‘We are absolutely delighted to be featured,’ he said. ‘I think it’s great to be recognised as a destination where people can just get away from it all. There were some superb destinations in the guide and we are delighted to come out on top. ‘I think this will encourage people to holiday closer to home. It will help increase tourism in the islands as a whole.’

Although writer Nicola Iseard said she had not visited Herm, others had recommended it. She included it in the article as it fitted the bill perfectly as both cars and bikes are banned.

Chris Elliott, director of marketing and tourism for Commerce and Employment, was happy to see the island getting the credit it deserved: ‘Herm is a very special place, not just for those of us who live here but for visitors as well. ‘At a time when more and more UK holidaymakers are looking at destinations where they can spend pounds and not euros, it’s very pleasing to see the island get the recognition it deserves as part of the Bailiwick’s unique character.’

Article posted on 28th April, 2009 - 1.00pm