Duchess to travel to Alderney for her 80th Homecoming

The Duchess of Edinburgh will be visiting Alderney to honor the 80th anniversary of Homecoming Day. She is expected to join residents in celebrating the return of evacuees following the conclusion of World War Two on 15 December.

Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, Lt Gen Sir Richard Cripwell, described Homecoming as "always a very special occasion" and expressed confidence that the duchess "will enjoy meeting the Homecomers, listening to their experiences, and taking part in Alderney's unique celebration."

Homecoming marks the moment when families, who had been evacuated in 1940, returned to Alderney approximately seven months after the island was liberated. Sir Richard commented, "I am thrilled that Her Royal Highness will join Alderney for such an important anniversary for the bailiwick."

The Duchess has previously visited Alderney in July 2009 and May 2022. The lieutenant-governor confirmed that further details about her upcoming visit will be shared in due course.

Author: Natalie Monroe