Channel 103 honours Jersey heroes of Storm Ciarán

Our radio station Channel 103 has been recognising islanders who went above and beyond during and after Storm Ciaran brought devastation to Jersey.

The storm made landfall late on 1 November, bringing with it hurricane-force winds reaching speed in excess of 100mph.

A tornado also ripped through eastern parishes around midnight, destroying homes, businesses and cars in its way.

Hundreds of trees were brought down during the storm.

Channel 103’s first hero of the week, Harry Meacham, thought it was his duty to help clear those blocking roads around Grouville.

Sister nomination

“Being, what I call a Grouvillian it was almost compulsive for me. I told myself ‘okay get your rear end into gear’ and get the saws and start clearing.

I wanted to make sure everyone was safe an emergency services could get through.”

His sister Jessica nominated him and told us he went above and beyond.

“Harry was helping to clear trees for the parish of Grouville non-stop for three to four days.

(He was) constantly coming home wet and hungry but never with a frown on his face. A change of clothes and a pizza and off he went back and out again.”

Voucher award

Four others were honoured by Channel 103. You can read their stories here on the Channel 103 website.

Each of the Storm Heroes received a £500 voucher donated by Sandpiper CI.

Channel 103’s Managing Director James Keen says the station has been ‘overwhelmed’ by the number of nominations.

“Whilst Storm Ciarán was the worst weather Jersey has seen for many years, it also brought out some of the best in our island spirit.

There were so many stories of people going above and beyond in extremely challenging circumstances and it was difficult to pick just five Storm Heroes – but each and every one deserves recognition; they’re a real credit to the resilience of Jersey.

We’re also especially grateful to our friends at Sandpiper CI for supporting this initiative so generously.”