A very snowy TRIP

Some of TRIP's passengers awaiting better weather during a visit to a snow covered Jersey. (Image: Archant)

TRIP Community Transport passengers from Honiton got more than they bargained for during a visit to Jersey when they caught the island’s heaviest snowfall for 40 years.

Snow descended on the popular holiday destination, bringing the island to a standstill earlier this month.

The TRIP passengers were on a recent visit to the island. But it was less than smooth sailing from the outset, as voluntary driver Steve Brownridge explains.

He told the Midweek Herald that the Monday they were due to sail from Poole the fast ferry had been cancelled due to forecasted snow and gales. This meant the passengers had to catch the slower ferry from Portsmouth.

The journey was rough and Steve said breaking glass could be heard from the duty free shop and a few breakfasts ended up on the floor as 80mph winds were recorded in the channel, followed by 55mph winds at Guernsey.

The ferry was unable to dock so it had to head to St Helier.

On arrival the party were met by a snow-covered harbour and road signs were not visible through the snow. The snow continued and the TRIP group were stranded in the hotel, but by Wednesday roads were beginning to be cleared.

Those brave enough decided to explore the town and in the afternoon they had a small excursion to the south east of the island.

By Thursday the sun made an appearance, allowing for a tour of the island except for the north coast, which still had 10ft drifts of snow.

The group finally made it back home despite having to catch a diverted ferry after the boat they were due to catch had engine problems.

TRIP Community Transport Association is based in New Street, Honiton.

The intrepid travellers said they had thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and were pleased to be in Jersey for such an historic occasion.