80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Jersey – Red Cross Parcels.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT & INSPIRATION

In the final months of the Occupation, the island faced severe starvation. On 30 December 1944, the SS Vega docked in St Helier carrying 119,792 Red Cross food parcels—a lifeline of supplies including flour, tea, biscuits, margarine, and chocolate. These parcels, destined initially for prisoners of war, were redirected to civilians and became a symbol of hope during the bleakest winter
The Parish sought to recapture that moment of relief and gratitude by recreating these iconic parcels and presenting them to surviving parishioners—an act both symbolic and deeply personal.

CONCEPT & DESIGN

Creative Vision & Authentic Detail
Our design team, led by Martyn Aubert, set out to faithfully recreate the look and feel of 1944 Red Cross food parcels. The box design was crafted to mirror the original dimensions, markings, and packaging style, complete with period-correct labels and stencils.
Contents with Care
While accurate wartime contents were no longer practical, the recreated parcels were filled with thoughtful items such as tea, biscuits, and chocolate—echoing the comforts of the original aid, while ensuring they were meaningful and safe for recipients today.

PRODUCTION & FABRICATION

Craftsmanship & Authenticity
Using sustainably sourced cardboard and archival references, the parcels were produced and assembled by local Jersey company Mailmate Print. The process blended traditional craftsmanship with a meticulous attention to historical accuracy.
Attention to Detail
Even the wrapping twine and printed labels paid homage to the era—underscoring the Parish’s commitment to honouring its history with integrity.

DISTRIBUTION & COMMUNITY MOMENT

A Moving Presentation
On Liberation Day, parishioners who lived through the Occupation were invited to the Parish Hall for a special commemorative event. Here, the recreated parcels were presented in person—evoking memories of the original SS Vega deliveries and serving as a tangible token of gratitude from the wider community.
Emotional Resonance
For many, receiving the parcel stirred deep emotions. Elder residents shared stories of their childhoods under the Occupation and their memories of the original Red Cross aid—turning the event into a living history lesson for younger generations in attendance.

RESULTS & IMPACT

Personal Connection
By focusing on individual experiences rather than a static installation, the project created an intimate and powerful bond between past and present.
Community Engagement
The presentation was widely covered on social media and in local press, amplifying the Parish’s commitment to remembrance and inclusion.
Heritage with Heart
This initiative reaffirmed St Martin’s standing as a parish that cherishes its history and honours those who endured its most challenging chapter.

CREDITS & COLLABORATION

Creative Direction & Project Management:
Martyn Aubert, The Idea Works
Design:
The Idea Works
Client Liaison & Heritage Input:
The Idea Works
Production & Assembly:
Mailmate Print
Client:
The Parish of St Martin

WHAT THE CLIENT SAYS

“Seeing our parishioners receive these recreated Red Cross parcels was profoundly moving. 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.”
– Constable Karen Shenton‑Stone, Parish of St Martin

WANT TO HONOUR YOUR COMMUNITY’S STORY?

We create projects that go beyond design—connecting people, history and place. Get in touch: richard@theideaworks.com
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The Idea Works — where heritage meets heartfelt design. Future‑facing creativity rooted in remembrance.