A speech by HRH The Prince of Wales in Jersey, Channel Islands during a visit to mark Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee

I am most grateful to the States and people of Jersey for the wonderful welcome you have shown us today. My wife and I are both delighted to be here formally to mark Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, which I know has already given rise to much celebration in the island.

The people of Jersey also played their part in the Diamond Jubilee events in London and, most visibly, at the River Pageant on the Thames. We were very moved, I must say, to see Jersey’s two boats there, including the island’s first powered lifeboat, so lovingly-restored by the Maritime Museum. [It gives me no pleasure, here in the sunniest part of the British Isles, to be reminded that] the weather that day was especially suitable for a lifeboat and, someone said, for toads too.

Mr Bailiff, you have spoken generously of the particular affection in which The Queen is held by the people of Jersey. To your loyal address, Her Majesty has asked me to convey her heartfelt thanks.

I can assure you that The Queen will be deeply touched, as my wife and I have been, to learn of the warmth of the welcome you have extended to us here today. In return, I know Her Majesty will wish me to express how this great island, of rich history and strong loyalties, will remain so very dear to her heart, now and in the years to come.