1st June 1963
Colorado beetle arrives in Jersey
“Beaches along the north and east coasts of Jersey are being sprayed with insecticide after some 200 Colorado beetles were found on the shores,” reported The Times. The beetle, which is a parasite of tomato and potato crops, could have spelled disaster for both Jersey and Guernsey’s seasonal crops.
Colorado beetles had invaded the Channel Islands in June 1947 after being blown across from France. Many were washed up dead, but the 1963 infestation was possibly more serious because of the large number that were arriving still alive. Nonetheless, in 1947 Jersey’s potato exports to the mainland had been suspended after beetles were found in crates unloaded there.
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Other events that occured in June
The Royal Militia leaves Fort Regent
- The Royal Militia was forced to leave its home at Fort Regent in advance of the arrival of German troops during the Second World War.
- Read more…
Batterie Moltke’s namesake dies
- When German forces built defensive structures on the Channel Islands during the occupation, they gave several former military leaders’ names.
- Read more…
German planes attack St Helier
- The British government didn't inform Germany that it had demilitarised the Channel Islands, so German planes attacked in advance of invasion.
- Read more…
Arsonist is arrested after being burned by his own fire
- When Mr Collenette’s fancy jewellery and hair shop burned down in June 1887, the blaze was so fierce it could be seen right across St Helier.
- Read more…
