"Focus on what is important to you at Christmas"

Tuesday 25 December 2018

Guernsey's current Lieutenant-Governor has now been in post for two and a half years, and has managed to get himself well and truly stuck in to local affairs since his appointment.

Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder and his wife, Lady Corder, have spent the year visiting different parts of the island community, and getting to further know each and every institution.

Sitting down to talk with Express over Christmas, Sir Ian said the year had undoubtedly been a busy one, but also one full of great memories.

"It has been a very enjoyable year as we have continued to make new relationships with parts of the community throughout the Bailiwick. We have almost finished our visits to the institutions of the island. This year we focused on secondary schools and senior schools with a secondary focus on nursing homes, and each of those visits have been extremely enjoyable," he said.

"I think the other highlights for 2018 include my first time at a film launch - I am delighted to see that has enjoyed a success at each of its launches across the world's box office, and I hope it will go along way to enhancing Guernsey's tourism offering. I also probably shouldn't say it but the clean sweep at the Siam Cup was rather enjoyable to see." 

Sir Ian said looking back on the year as a whole, it was clear how resilient the people of Guernsey were, particularly amongst so much uncertainty. "I think everything considered we have held our nerve very well in the face, and we have managed to retain the focus on what we do well: keeping a sense of community, the unique nature of our constitution and our core identity."

Christmas in Government House was what Sir Ian described as a "two phase operation". The first part of that was completing the year's visits - those with a Christmas focus - and getting everything in place for the new year. It was, he said, a busy time. But phase two was time to relax and enjoy the festive spirit just like everyone else, with family. 

"I have had the opportunity to meet some really inspiring people this year who find themselves in challenging situations - maybe looking at a Christmas In hospital, or working for Christmas to help others - but their optimism always impresses me," he said.

"Then when that comes to an end on the weekend before Christmas, it all becomes relatively quiet, and we spend the time with some relatives. I think one of the key things at this time of year is that everyone should ensure they relax and recharge their batteries, you need to focus on what is important to you." 

Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder

Guernsey's Lieutenant Governor