Honouring the Past with a Gift of Gratitude: Red Cross Parcels for St Martin’s Liberation Commemoration

When the Parish of St Martin set out to mark the 80th anniversary of Jersey’s Liberation, they wanted to do more than remember history—they wanted to honour it in a way that was deeply personal and profoundly moving.

The Idea Works was commissioned to design and recreate authentic Red Cross relief parcels, presented as a tribute to the parishioners who had lived through the hardships of the Occupation. This thoughtful project celebrated not only the anniversary but also the resilience and gratitude of a community that had endured.

A Tribute Rooted in History

In the winter of 1944, Jersey’s population faced extreme food shortages under German Occupation. Relief finally arrived in the form of 119,792 Red Cross parcels aboard the SS Vega—delivering vital supplies like flour, tea, biscuits, and chocolate. For many islanders, these parcels represented hope and survival during the war’s darkest months.

The Parish of St Martin sought to recreate that sense of relief and gratitude by designing and distributing replica parcels to parishioners who had lived through the Occupation.

Faithfully Recreating a Lifeline

“The challenge was to evoke the original Red Cross parcels with complete authenticity, while also creating something that felt like a heartfelt gift,” says Martyn Aubert, Creative Director at The Idea Works.

Every detail of the recreated parcels was considered. From the dimensions and markings to the period-correct stencils and wrapping twine, the design paid homage to the originals. While the contents no longer exactly mirrored wartime supplies, they included thoughtful items such as tea, biscuits, and chocolate—echoing the comforts of the original aid and ensuring they were safe and meaningful for recipients today.

The parcels were crafted and assembled locally by Mailmate Print, blending traditional craftsmanship with historical accuracy.

A Moving Community Moment

On Liberation Day, parishioners who had lived through the Occupation gathered at St Martin Parish Hall for a special commemorative event. Here, the replica parcels were presented in person, evoking memories of the SS Vega’s deliveries and creating a tangible link between past and present.

For many, receiving the parcels stirred powerful emotions. Residents shared childhood memories of the Occupation, turning the event into a living history lesson for younger generations.

“Seeing our parishioners receive these recreated Red Cross parcels was profoundly moving,” says Constable Karen Shenton‑Stone. “It connected us back to a time of both hardship and hope. The Idea Works team handled the project with such care and respect—it couldn’t have been more perfect.”

Connecting People, History, and Place

This project didn’t just mark a milestone—it reaffirmed St Martin’s standing as a parish that cherishes its history and honours those who endured its most challenging chapter.

“At its heart, this was about people,” adds Martyn Aubert. “Design can do so much more than decorate—it can help a community remember, reflect, and reconnect.”

Want to Honour Your Community’s Story?

At The Idea Works, we create projects that go beyond design—connecting people, history, and place. Whether you’re planning a heritage installation, a commemorative event, or a brand activation, we’re here to help.

Start the conversation: richard@theideaworks.com

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The Idea Works — where heritage meets heartfelt design. Future-facing creativity rooted in remembrance.