Tributes paid to "outstanding" and "engaging" polar explorer

Wednesday 26 May 2021

Dudley Jehan has died aged 82, leaving behind a fascinating legacy as a decorated Antarctic Base Commander, influential Guernsey businessman and long-serving non-States member.

Mr Jehan passed away peacefully at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital on 21 May.

Born and educated in Guernsey, he trained as a Meteorologist with the Air Ministry, working at Heathrow and Guernsey Airports before joining the British Antarctic Survey in 1960.

During his four-year posting he was appointed Base Commander Halley and was later awarded a Polar Medal by Her Majesty the Queen for outstanding contributions to science and discovery. 

Pictured: An image of the Brunt Ice Shelf in 1961, taken by Dudley Jehan during his four-year posting. 

On returning to Guernsey, he began a career in commerce, retiring in 2003 as Chief Executive of the Norman Piette Group.

He was appointed the first Chairman of Guernsey Telecoms Limited, held a number of non-executive directorships and was a non-States Member for over a quarter of a decade, most notably as a member of the Housing Board, where he worked alongside former deputy Barry Brehaut. 

“Dudley was an old-school gentleman, yet he kept a keen interest in all things new," Mr Brehaut recalled.

“His years of experience in the building industry meant he was ideally placed to give a view on emerging policy matters such as the concept of housing associations - he well understood the local housing market.

"His measured thoughtful approach was an asset when dealing with complex housing licence requests."

Such sad news. He was always such a kind and pragmatic presence on Housing

— James Roberts (@jroberts332) May 25, 2021

Mr Jehan joined the Board of Guernsey Post in 2003 and served as Chairman for six years. 

“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Dudley," said Simon Milsted, the current Chairman of Guernsey Post, who was part of Mr Jehan's board.   

"He played an invaluable part in steering our business through times of immense change, including the unwinding of the LVCR industry.

"He was equally supportive to the company management team as he was to his fellow board members and his chairmanship illustrated perception and sound judgement. We send our sincere condolences to Dudley’s family.”

Pictured: Barry Brehaut recalled how his colleague Dudley Jehan's tales about the Antarctic had once turned a delayed flight into "a fascinating afternoon in the airport departure lounge".

Mr Brehaut said Mr Jehan's personal qualities lie at the heart of his success: “He was polite and courteous to colleagues and staff alike and had a keen sense of humour.

"Dudley was such a nice man, bright, engaging, calm, easy company. He served this island community extremely well over the years. I will miss him, as will many.”