Islanders are coming together today (11 January) to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Jersey.

The conflict between Jersey and the French over territory and trade occurred 244 years ago this week, on 6 January 1781,

The anniversary will be marked with music, prayer, a talk and musket fire to commemorate those that lost their lives in the historic battle.

• 8.15am - Walking group meets for introductory talk at St Martin's Church from historian Ian Ronayne, before travelling to the Town Hall
• 11.45am - The parade begins from the Town Hall to the Royal Square, consisting of walkers, the Scout band and the 1781 Militia.
• 12.00pm - A militia demonstration will take pace, followed by the first firing of muskets. 
• 12.10pm - Welcome talk from Peter Pearce, followed by Ian Ronayne speaking about the battle. The Dean will lead islanders in prayer and a blessing.
• 12.45pm - The militia will fire two more rounds from their muskets.
• 12.50pm - Drinks will be served at the Peirson Pub.

Portrait of Major Peirson by artist Philip Ouless.

A short history of the Battle of Jersey: 

After a build-up of fighting over territory and trade, on 6 January 1781, French forces landed at La Rocque, before making their way to St Helier. 

During the march, led by Baron de Rullecourt, forces came across and killed two Jerseymen - Pierre Arrive and Jean De Ste Croix - and captured the Lieutenant Governor.

By 8.00am, St Helier was captured and Jersey was ordered to surrender - a demand which was refused. This prompted a French attack on Elizabeth Castle. 

This charge was met by canon fire, forcing the French to retreat. The enemy then began setting up cannon (stolen from the Town Church) at the entrances to the Square, pointing down Broad Street. 

Major Francis Peirson, the leader of the British forces, continued in his retaliation, positioning troops at Fort Regent so they could fire onto the square form above. He then gave the order to march on Town. 

When the fighting began again, it became clear that inexperienced French gunners had set their cannon too high, with shots sailing harmlessly over the advancing troops.

During the battle, Peirson was struck by a bullet, and died at the edge of the Square. His strategy continued to pay off though, with the French wavering, feeling the attack from all sides.

Enemy forces were eventually defeated, with their leader De Rullecourt killed by musket balls.